Lightspeed-backed Bhanzu, a math learning platform founded by world-renowned “human calculator” Neelakantha Bhanu Prakash, is in advanced discussions to raise Rs 130-140 crore (around $16-$17 million) from Epiq Capital and Z3Partners. This fresh funding round values Bhanzu at approximately $115-120 million, marking a steady increase from its previous $100 million valuation in September 2022.

The renewed interest in Bhanzu comes as investors return to India’s edtech landscape after a period of hesitation spurred by the downturn of Byju’s and a post-pandemic shift back to offline learning. The edtech sector, once teetering due to Byju’s troubles, has witnessed a wave of new investments in the past months. High-profile players like PhysicsWallah, Eruditus, and UpGrad have secured funding, with PhysicsWallah raising $210 million in September, Eruditus securing $150 million from TPG, and UpGrad raising $60 million from Temasek.

Founded in 2021 by Neelakantha Bhanu Prakash, who holds four world records in mental calculation and is a gold medalist at the Mind Sports Olympiad, Bhanzu aims to eliminate math-related anxieties for students. Prakash’s innovative teaching approach and niche focus in math education have attracted attention. The company has delivered over 3 million teaching hours to 30,000+ students across 16 countries, with plans to use the new capital to expand further in India and explore international markets like the U.S.

This funding marks Epiq Capital and Z3Partners’ first investment in the edtech sector. Epiq has previously invested in companies like Lenskart and Zepto, while Z3Partners has backed platforms like MakeMyTrip and BigBasket.

Bhanzu’s Series B round, once completed, will be its first capital infusion since its $15 million Series A led by Eight Roads Ventures in 2022. This funding reflects a gradual yet confident resurgence in the sector, as investors appear more optimistic about the future of edtech in India.

Key Highlights:

• Bhanzu, led by Neelakantha Bhanu Prakash, is in talks to raise Rs 140 crore from Epiq Capital and Z3Partners.
• Edtech in India is witnessing a resurgence, with investments flowing into PhysicsWallah, Eruditus, and UpGrad.
• Bhanzu aims to expand in India and overseas, delivering over 3 million teaching hours across 16 countries.
• This will be the first edtech investment for both Epiq Capital and Z3Partners.