Botlab Dynamics, a startup incubated at IIT Delhi, took center stage with a stunning 1,200-drone light show at the recent Cricket World Cup final held at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The dazzling performance not only captivated the nearly 100,000 live spectators but also left millions watching via screens in awe.
Co-founded and led by Sarita Ahlawat, Botlab Dynamics has emerged as a pioneer in drone swarm technology. A team of 35 dedicated individuals worked tirelessly for a month, including a week of intense preparation and rehearsal at the stadium, to flawlessly orchestrate the synchronized drone performance.
The startup, backed by prominent investors including the Department of Science and Technology, I-Hub Foundation for Cobotics, Let’s Venture, and Florintree Advisors, has developed drone swarm technology that allows multiple drones to communicate and fly autonomously in a coordinated manner. While Botlab Dynamics primarily operates in the entertainment sector, its technology has far-reaching applications in defense for surveillance, logistics, disaster management, and efficient payload drops.
Matthew Cyriac, Executive Chairman of Florintree Advisors, emphasized the unique expertise of Botlab Dynamics in swarming technology, foreseeing its growth as it ventures into defense and surveillance applications. The startup has previously showcased its capabilities with high-profile light shows, including events like the Indian Premier League and the beating of the retreat on January 28, where a record-breaking 3,500 drones were deployed at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Botlab Dynamics is currently engaged in developing a new fleet of drones for the Indian Armed Forces, with plans to supply 10 systems of small, light payload, fully autonomous survey drones by March. This initiative, supported by a Rs 3-crore grant from iDEX, aligns with the government’s initiative to promote self-reliance and development in defense and aerospace technology.
Looking ahead, Botlab Dynamics aims to expand its drone fleet from 5,000 to 10,000 by March-April and envisions introducing consumer drones for personal use by 2025, such as in weddings and hiking. The startup is also in talks with governments and corporations to collaborate on a light show featuring an impressive 6,000 drones, with the ambitious goal of setting a world record.
Despite facing competition from global players, Botlab Dynamics sets itself apart by enabling drone control via smartphones or tablets, eliminating the need for pilots. Additionally, the startup manufactures all essential components in-house, distinguishing itself from competitors in the drone technology space.
Established in 2016, Botlab Dynamics initially focused on defense applications before pivoting to light shows in 2019 due to funding challenges. Despite these hurdles, the startup has experienced significant growth, nearly doubling its business from the previous year, with a total funding of Rs 40 crore expected after closing an investment deal with a real estate firm.
In the coming 1-2 years, Botlab Dynamics plans to focus on international competitions for light show projects, targeting African and West Asian markets. The startup is already gearing up for shows in Oman and Angola next year, reflecting its commitment to making a lasting impact on the global stage with its groundbreaking drone technology.
