Amit Banerji, founder, chairman and chief executive officer (CEO) of Table Space, a workspace solutions provider passed away, the company said on Monday.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Amit Banerji, our Founder, Chairman, and CEO. Amit was a visionary leader who transformed the flexible workspace solution industry in India, Amit’s leadership built Table Space into what it is today. His impact on the company, its people and the industry will be lasting, and he will be profoundly missed by his family, friends and partners,“ said the company in its statement.

The cause of his death remains unknown, although some news reports suspected he had a heart attack. Founded in 2017 Table Space offer customised coworking spaces to companies across India including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.

India’s startup ecosystem, often celebrated for its remarkable fundraises, acquisitions, and global success stories, has a lesser-seen side: the toll of relentless stress and intense work.

Impact on physical health

In recent years, the untimely deaths of several prominent entrepreneurs and investors in their 40s and 50s have brought attention to the immense pressures of leadership and their impact on physical health.

Rohan Mirchandani, the 41-year-old co-founder of Epigamia, succumbed to a heart attack, leaving the entrepreneurial world in shock.  A graduate of NYU Stern and Wharton, Mirchandani launched Drums Food International in 2013, creating Epigamia, a new-age FMCG and Greek yoghurt brand.

Similarly, Rohan Malhotra, co-founder and managing partner of Good Capital, passed away at just 36 in October 2024. Founded in 2019, Good Capital became a significant player in seed-stage investments under Rohan’s leadership.

Ambareesh Murty, 51, co-founder and CEO of Pepperfry, an online furniture marketplace, also scummed to a heart attack in August 2023. He was on a biking trip in Leh.

Rudratej Singh, President and CEO of Royal Enfield, passed unexpectedly in 2020 due to cardiac arrest.

“We are noticing an increase in coronary artery disease (CAD) among younger individuals due to the earlier onset of risk factors like hypertension and cholesterol issues, which were less prevalent in the past. Added risks such as smoking, stress—both job-related and personal—further aggravate the situation. Founders, in particular, face significant stress due to managing multiple business interests. Regular health checks and engaging in de-stressing activities are crucial to mitigating these risks,“ said Dr. Chirag D, Consultant – Interventional Cardiology, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru.