I used my income so he could focus on Zoho, now he says I own just 5% of it: Vembu’s wife
The world of technology and entrepreneurship is often filled with stories of innovation, perseverance, and success. However, behind the scenes, the journeys of founders and their families can be complex and tumultuous. A recent revelation in the divorce case of Sridhar Vembu, the billionaire founder of Zoho, has brought to light a story of sacrifice, dedication, and ultimately, shock and disillusionment. Vembu’s wife, Pramila Srinivasan, has come forward with a startling claim that she used her income to support her husband’s dream of building Zoho, only to discover years later that he claimed to own just 5% of the company.
The story begins with Sridhar Vembu’s decision to quit his job and pursue his passion for building a software company. It was a risk that required immense support, both emotional and financial. Pramila Srinivasan, his wife, was not only his partner in life but also in his entrepreneurial journey. She used her income to ensure that the family’s financial needs were met, allowing Vembu to focus on building Zoho from the ground up. This sacrifice was made with the understanding that they were in this together, as a team, working towards a common goal.
As Zoho began to grow and flourish, so did the Vembu’s personal life. However, the dynamics of their relationship and the ownership of the company were about to take a dramatic turn. Years after Vembu had poured his heart and soul into building Zoho, and with the support of his wife, he filed for divorce. It was during this process that Pramila Srinivasan was shocked to learn that her husband claimed to own just 5% of the company. This revelation was nothing short of astonishing for someone who had stood by him, financially and emotionally, throughout his journey.
But what makes this situation even more intriguing is the role of Vembu’s sister, Radha, in Zoho’s ownership structure. According to reports, Radha is the largest shareholder of Zoho, with a staggering 47.8% stake in the company. This raises questions about the distribution of ownership and how decisions regarding the company’s shares were made, especially considering Pramila Srinivasan’s significant contributions to the company’s early days.
The legal battle surrounding the divorce and the ownership of Zoho has taken a significant turn with a US court ordering Sridhar Vembu to post a $17 billion bond. This move is seen as a measure to ensure that Vembu does not attempt to hide or transfer assets during the divorce proceedings. The magnitude of this bond underscores the high stakes involved in this case, both personally and financially.
Pramila Srinivasan’s story serves as a reminder of the unseen sacrifices made by spouses and partners in the pursuit of entrepreneurial dreams. It highlights the importance of clear communication, legal agreements, and a transparent understanding of roles and ownership in both personal and professional relationships. The outcome of this case will not only determine the future of Zoho’s ownership but also set a precedent for how such situations are handled in the future.
In conclusion, the story of Sridhar Vembu and Pramila Srinivasan is a complex mix of love, sacrifice, innovation, and legal battles. It serves as a cautionary tale for entrepreneurs and their families, emphasizing the need for clarity and fairness in all aspects of their relationships. As the legal proceedings continue to unfold, the world watches with bated breath, awaiting the resolution of this billionaire divorce case that has captured international attention.
News Source: https://www.thenewsminute.com/news/exclusive-us-court-orders-sridhar-vembu-to-post-17-billion-bond-in-divorce-case
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