Cardiac Arrest Claims Life of Rohan Mirchandani at 42
Rohan Mirchandani, the 42-year-old co-founder of the renowned Greek yogurt brand Epigamia, died of heart arrest on December 21. This unexpected news has left the entrepreneurial and health communities mourning the loss of a visionary leader.
A Visionary Entrepreneur Who Transformed the Market
Rohan Mirchandani was an alumnus of The Wharton School and NYU Stern School of Business. In 2013, he co-founded Drums Food International, the parent company of Epigamia, to introduce Greek yogurt to Indian consumers. Under his guidance, Epigamia became a household name among health-conscious people. The company diversified its product range to include smoothies, milkshakes, plant-based yogurts, lactose-free curd, and artisanal curd, cementing its reputation as a leader in the health food industry.
Leadership Commitment to His Vision
Following Mirchandani’s passing, the company’s leadership team, led by COO Ankur Goel and co-founder Uday Thakker, will continue to manage operations. The board of directors and Mirchandani’s family have pledged full support to ensure that Epigamia thrives and continues to honour his vision.
Prominent investors, including Verlinvest and DSG Consumer Partners, have expressed their confidence in the company’s future under the leadership of the founding team.
Tributes Pour In
Mirchandani’s colleagues and business leaders have expressed their sadness at his death. According to Ankur Goel and Uday Thakker, Rohan was more than simply a leader, but also a mentor and friend. We are committed to continuing his journey with the same passion and determination. His values will guide us as we work to honour his legacy.”
Harsh Mariwala, chairman of Marico, also paid tribute, calling Mirchandani’s passing a significant loss to the entrepreneurial community. The Epigamia board reaffirmed their commitment to advancing its mission and growing the brand.
What Is Cardiac Arrest?
Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops beating suddenly, cutting off blood flow to vital organs. This is a life-threatening condition that can cause death within minutes if not treated promptly. A 2023 study by the Journal of the American College of Cardiology revealed a 13% global increase in cardiac arrest cases among individuals aged 35–50 over the last decade.
Why Are Younger Adults at Risk?
- Sedentary Lifestyles: Long hours spent sitting at desks and minimal physical activity can weaken the heart over time.
- Unhealthy Diets: Consuming processed foods, sugary snacks, and trans fats increases the risk of heart disease and obesity.
- Chronic Stress: High-stress jobs and poor work-life balance can elevate blood pressure and inflammation, leading to heart problems.
- Undiagnosed Health Issues: Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol often go unnoticed until they cause significant damage.
- Substance Use: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are major contributors to heart disease, even in seemingly healthy individuals.
How to Lower the Risk of Cardiac Arrest
- Regular Health Screenings: Schedule annual check-ups to monitor cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels.
- Stay Active: Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily, such as walking, swimming, or yoga.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Incorporate fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your meals while avoiding processed foods.
- Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing to reduce chronic stress.
- Avoid Smoking and Excess Alcohol: Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption to protect your heart health.
A Wake-Up Call for Change
The untimely passing of Rohan Mirchandani is a poignant reminder of the rising risks of cardiac arrest among younger adults. By adopting healthier habits and paying attention to early warning signs, individuals can reduce their risks and prioritize their heart health.
Mirchandani’s legacy will continue to inspire, not only through his contributions to the health food industry but also as a reminder to prioritize well-being in today’s fast-paced world.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.