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 entrepreneurship is often marked by stories of dedication, perseverance, and sacrifice. Behind every successful entrepreneur, there is often an unsung hero who has supported them through thick and thin. For Sridhar Vembu, the billionaire founder of Zoho, that hero was his wife, Pramila Srinivasan. However, in a shocking turn of events, Srinivasan has come forward to reveal that her contributions to Vembu’s success have been grossly undervalued, and she is now fighting for her rightful share of the company.
According to Srinivasan, she used her income to support Vembu when he quit his job to pursue his dream of building Zoho. “I was the breadwinner of the family, and I used my income to support Sridhar so that he could focus on building Zoho,” she said. “I believed in his vision, and I was happy to play a supporting role in helping him achieve his goals.” Srinivasan’s sacrifices did not go unnoticed, and Zoho went on to become a highly successful company, with a valuation of over $10 billion.
However, when Vembu filed for divorce, Srinivasan was shocked to learn that he claimed to own only 5% of the company. “I felt like I had been punched in the gut,” she said. “I had given up so much for Sridhar and Zoho, and now he was telling me that I didn’t even own a significant share of the company.” Srinivasan’s sense of betrayal was further compounded by the fact that Vembu’s sister, Radha, is the largest shareholder of Zoho, with a 47.8% stake.
The news of Vembu’s divorce and the subsequent revelation about the ownership structure of Zoho has sent shockwaves through the business community. Many are questioning how Vembu could claim to own only 5% of the company, given his role as the founder and CEO. Others are wondering how Radha, Vembu’s sister, came to own such a large stake in the company.
As the divorce proceedings continue, Srinivasan is fighting for her rightful share of Zoho. She believes that her contributions to the company, both financial and emotional, entitle her to a significant stake in the business. “I am not just fighting for myself, I am fighting for all the women who have been marginalized and undervalued in the business world,” she said. “I hope that my story will inspire other women to stand up for their rights and to demand the recognition they deserve.”
The case has also raised questions about the ownership structure of Zoho and how it has been managed over the years. While Vembu has been the public face of the company, it appears that the actual ownership of the business is more complex and nuanced. The fact that Radha, Vembu’s sister, owns such a large stake in the company has led to speculation about the role she has played in the business and how she has benefited from its success.
As the court proceedings continue, it is likely that more details about the ownership structure of Zoho will come to light. For now, Srinivasan remains determined to fight for her rights and to ensure that her contributions to the company are recognized. “I will not be silenced or marginalized,” she said. “I will continue to fight for what is rightfully mine, and I hope that justice will be served.”
In a recent development, a US court has ordered Sridhar Vembu to post a $17 billion bond in the divorce case. This move is seen as a significant victory for Srinivasan, who has been fighting for her rightful share of the company. The court’s decision is a clear indication that Srinivasan’s claims are being taken seriously, and that Vembu will be held accountable for his actions.
As the drama surrounding Zoho and its founders continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the story of Sridhar Vembu and Pramila Srinivasan is a cautionary tale about the importance of recognizing the contributions of all stakeholders in a business. It is a reminder that behind every successful entrepreneur, there are often unsung heroes who have played a critical role in their success. And it is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.
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