Ziva Software, a startup based out of IIM Bangalore’s NSR-GIV Center run by the NSRCEL has launched a mobile content search service called Zook, accessible via SMS (they’re using One97’s short code 3030), WAP and GPRS. ContentSutra learns that Ziva Software had received Rs.7.5 crore in investment from Nadathur Investment and Holdings, and early stage VC company started by Founder and Former JMD of Infosys, Nadathur S. Raghavan.
Interestingly, Zook has integrated an answers facility, where users can request reviews/assistance. They’ve also integrating groups into the search system for people with common interests to interact. Zook is built on two of Ziva’s mobile-specific platforms - Manas Platform for interactive mobile search and Peepal Network for content-oriented social networking. They’re in the process of filing patents for both.
For location based searches, Zook has tied up with Infomedia, and is doing a trial with Hungry Bangalore for online booking in restaurants, on a trial basis. They’ve also tied up with Rajesh Jain funded company SEraja for events.
While search is free, I just signed up to try out the answers feature. A couple of things that I see hindering adoption: signups need to be confirmed by SMS, and if they’re looking to mine that data, mobile based search is a less intrusive means for doing the same. Secondly, to ask about, say, the food in a particular restaurant, I have to specify numbers of those who I want to ask- seems to be a means of promoting the site, and not an open forum for solutions.

Update: We’ve received an official confirmation from Nadathur Investment and Holdings that they have invested Rs. 7.5 crores in Ziva Software. The information received earlier was from Ziva Software.