The journey of an entrepreneur is often romanticized as a straight road to success, but the reality is more like a rugged, winding path filled with unforeseen obstacles. My entrepreneurial journey from 2011 to 2024 is no different - marked by immense hardship, failures, growth, and ultimately, triumph. This article is not just my story but a handbook for aspiring entrepreneurs - especially college students and new-age dreamers - who aspire to carve their paths in the world of startups.
The Beginning: Building Dreams Amid Constraints
The Genesis: 2011 - 2013
It all began during my third year at IIT Kharagpur when I launched my first company, iwanttutor - an online tutoring platform. Unlike many of my peers who were preparing for lucrative placements, I chose the uncertain path of entrepreneurship, fueled by a desire to solve real problems.
Coming from a lower-middle-class background, the stakes were high. My family relied on me to support them financially, and I was battling academic challenges and language barriers. I worked tirelessly - 18 to 20 hours a day - to build my startup while clearing family debts. Despite the mental stress, I managed to graduate, not with a job offer but with invaluable lessons in resilience.