Deepinder Goyal has stepped away from his role as CEO of Eternal, the parent company of Zomato and Blinkit. The announcement was made on January 21, 2026, marking a significant moment for one of India’s most well-known consumer tech companies. Although he has resigned from the top role, Goyal will continue to remain associated with Eternal in a non-executive capacity, subject to shareholder approval. The decision comes soon after the company posted strong financial results, leaving many wondering what prompted the move and what it could mean for Eternal’s journey ahead.
Who Is Deepinder Goyal? Early Life and Career Journey
Deepinder Goyal started his journey in 2008, when he launched Zomato as a simple website that shared restaurant menus for office workers. At that time, most menus were available only on paper. Seeing the rise of smartphones, Goyal transformed the idea into a digital food discovery and delivery platform. From Delhi, Zomato expanded rapidly across India and later to international markets. Goyal is an IIT Delhi graduate, and his tech background helped him build Zomato’s early systems. Today, he owns around 5% stake in Eternal, estimated to be worth nearly ₹8,000 crore.
Why Did Deepinder Goyal Resign as Eternal CEO
In a note shared with shareholders, Goyal explained that he wants to work on new ideas that involve high risk and experimentation. He said that running a public company requires complete focus on stable and proven business paths, which limits freedom to experiment. Since these new ideas are outside food delivery and quick commerce, he felt it was best to step aside. Goyal made it clear that there is no conflict or disagreement with the board and called Eternal his “life’s work.”
#BREAKING | Deepinder Goyal resigns from Eternal as CEO
— ET NOW (@ETNOWlive) January 21, 2026
Subject to shareholders’ approval, he will remain on the board of directors as Vice Chairman
Albinder Dhindsa will be Eternal's new Group CEO@deepigoyal @zomato @albinder #StockMarket #Eternal pic.twitter.com/zbjaO9nXID
Albinder Dhindsa Takes Over as New Eternal CEO
Albinder Dhindsa, the CEO of Blinkit, will now lead Eternal. He is known for turning Blinkit from a loss-making business into a profitable one within 18 months. Under his leadership, Blinkit improved supply chains, expanded dark stores, and gained nearly 50% market share in quick commerce. Dhindsa will now oversee all Eternal businesses, including Zomato and Blinkit.
Eternal’s Growth Story: From Zomato to a Consumer Tech Giant
Zomato was listed on the stock market in 2021, becoming one of India’s most talked-about IPOs. Despite early losses, the company focused on growth and scale. In 2022, Eternal acquired Blinkit for $568 million, entering the fast-growing quick commerce space. Blinkit delivers groceries and essentials in 10–15 minutes and has become a major growth driver. Last year, the company was renamed Eternal, reflecting its ambition to grow beyond food delivery.
How Markets Reacted to the CEO Change
After the announcement, Eternal shares dipped slightly by around 3%, which analysts see as a normal reaction. Experts believe Dhindsa’s strong operational track record provides stability. Eternal also has a cash reserve of nearly ₹2,000 crore and no major debt concerns.
Impact on Zomato, Blinkit, and India’s Food Delivery Market
Eternal continues to lead India’s food delivery space with nearly 55% market share. Blinkit remains ahead in quick commerce, competing with Zepto and Swiggy Instamart. With Dhindsa focusing on operations and scale, the company is expected to strengthen delivery speed, customer experience, and expansion into new cities.
What’s Next for Deepinder Goyal?
Deepinder Goyal has hinted at exploring high-risk startup ideas outside Eternal. While no official details are out yet, industry watchers expect him to return with bold new ventures. As vice chairman and major shareholder, Goyal will continue to guide Eternal from the board level.
