Tech startup CEO died after falling 20 feet to the stage at a company event

The unfortunate incident occurred while Shah, 56, was celebrating the 25th anniversary of the company at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, India. As part of an elaborate stage performance, Shah and the company president, Vishwanath Raju Datla, were being lowered onto the stage in an iron cage designed to resemble the gondola of a hot air balloon. It was during this descent that a cable appeared to snap, causing both men to fall approximately 20 feet to the stage.

Shah received medical treatment but sadly succumbed to his injuries, as reported by outlets, including CBS News. His colleague sustained multiple injuries and remained in critical condition until late Saturday, according to sources cited by The Times of India.

Vistex has filed a complaint with the police regarding the lack of safety measures at the venue, and an investigation is underway.

Sanjay Shah had been the founder and CEO of Vistex, a revenue management software firm, for 25 years. The Illinois-based company operates globally with 20 offices and over 2,000 staff, according to its website.

Following the news, friends and associates expressed their condolences on LinkedIn. One member wrote, “I am shocked and deeply saddened with the tragic demise of good friend, entrepreneur, philanthropist and Indiaspora member Sanjay Shah. He was a lovely human being who led with quiet confidence and gave back generously including building a world-class hospital in India. He will be sorely missed! May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti!”

A former Vistex employee described Shah as “fun and close to all the Vistex team and a truly inspiring leader,” adding: “My deepest condolences to family and friends and to all the company, to which I still feel, somehow, part of.”