August 21st, 2023 is celebrated as World Entrepreneur’s Day to appreciate and acknowledge all risk-takers and dare-devils, who are determined to create their own legacy by launching and running their startups and businesses.
This day celebrates entrepreneurship and appreciates every entrepreneur’s role in shaping a brave new world.
Due to entrepreneurship, we are able to generate new jobs, boost our economy, induce innovation and set the foundation of an entrepreneurship culture, that gives rise to a startup eco-system and empowers one and all.
We asked India’s leading entrepreneurs, CEOs and industry leaders about their views and thoughts on World Entrepreneur’s Day, and here are the major highlights:
Rajesh Uttamchandani, Director at Syska Group
World Entrepreneur’s Day is an opportunity to recognize the innovative spirit and strong leadership embodied by entrepreneurs across the globe. It is a day to celebrate the forward-looking individuals who embarked on inspiring entrepreneurial journeys and, through their tireless efforts, forged thriving enterprises from the ground up. The revolutionary ideas and products they have conceived continue to enrich our lives and shape our collective future.
At Syska, we’ve expanded significantly beyond our core business of LED lights. This growth has been guided by the entrepreneurial vision and decisive actions of our leadership. Our accomplishments stem from an unwavering pursuit of excellence and a willingness to venture into new territories.
We wholeheartedly applaud the courage and dedication of each and every entrepreneur who accepts risk and embraces optimism in the face of uncertainty – becoming powerful and proud contributors to the India growth story.
Kishan Jain, Director at Goldmedal Electricals
As third-generation leaders, World Entrepreneurs’ Day holds a special significance for us at Goldmedal Electricals. It provides an opportunity to pay tribute to the rich legacy of entrepreneurship, continuous innovation and leadership that have shaped us as a company. A commitment to exploring new frontiers has driven Goldmedal Electricals to expand across multiple sectors right from the very beginning, serving as a key factor in our success.
Entrepreneurs face challenges with unyielding determination, embrace risk with optimism and navigate uncertainty to achieve their goals. They inspire us all with their work ethic and enrich our business landscape through their spirited efforts. We applaud these visionary individuals for their immense contribution to the nation’s growth story.
Adetee Agarwaal – Founder of PinkAprons
Today is a day to celebrate and appreciate the role of entrepreneurs in Indian society, and acknowledge their contribution towards empowering India, and making us globally competitive. Our education system should be tweaked and upgraded to understand the requirements of entrepreneurs, and find out how we can inspire and motivate youngsters to become job creators, rather than job seekers. I must thank and appreciate our Govt for launching new schemes and plans to help entrepreneurs and SMEs, but need a more inclusive and growth-oriented approach for ensuring that each and every dream of entrepreneurs is fulfilled. 3 cheers to the spirit of Entrepreneurship!
Mr. Namit Jain – Co-founder & CEO, Rupyy part of CarDekho Group
On World Entrepreneurship Day, let’s cut through the noise and talk about what’s really happening in the fintech space in India. It’s not a ‘revolution’ or a ‘disruption’; it’s a pragmatic evolution, driven by entrepreneurs who know that buzzwords don’t pay the bills. They’re crafting solutions that are as groundbreaking as they are grounded. Think rural farmers easily navigating loans without succumbing to the unreasonable demands of local moneylenders, urban dwellers managing investments without needing a finance degree. It’s about building bridges, not barriers, in a financial landscape that’s as diverse as our nation itself. So here’s to the entrepreneurs who aren’t just riding the digital wave but steering it, shaping a future that’s not just about technology but about people, understanding, and genuine innovation. It’s not just the future of finance; it’s the future of how we connect, transact, and thrive. And it’s happening right here, right now, one swipe, one click, one connection at a time.
Piyush Jalan, Co-Founder & COO at GOVO
World Entrepreneurs’ Day is a golden opportunity to acknowledge and honour entrepreneurs across the globe. It recognizes their tremendous dedication as they work tirelessly to build their ventures. At GOVO, a brand propelled by young and inventive minds, we keep the spirit of entrepreneurship alive through consistently striving for excellence and exploring new domains. As a challenger in the audio tech space, developing innovative solutions reshaping the sector, we feel a sense of kinship with the courageous disruptors and risk-takers who are enriching the entrepreneurial landscape. We wholeheartedly applaud and celebrate the immense contribution of entrepreneurs towards shaping a prosperous future for us all.
Ashok Kumar, Owner at Osho Plastic & Fabsip Papers
The path of an entrepreneur is a challenging one, marked by a multitude of highs and lows, as well as unforeseen twists and turns. In 1998, I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey, a decision that was far from simple. Despite having the option to pursue a conventional job after obtaining my B.Tech degree from Ramaiah University, I chose to venture into the world of entrepreneurship with a meaningful purpose in mind. This marked the inception of “Osho Plastic,” a venture centered around extracting value from discarded materials for the betterment of society.
Starting with only determination and courage as my assets, I embarked on this creative endeavor. In the initial stages, resources were scarce, but my resolute determination became the driving force that propelled me forward. The challenges were manifold, yet my unwavering resolve allowed me to overcome obstacles and establish “Osho Plastic.” This achievement became a stepping stone, empowering me to push the boundaries further by giving birth to my subsequent venture, “Fabsip Papers.”
Ultimately, what I’ve come to understand is that regardless of the difficulties encountered on this journey, it’s the mindset that plays a pivotal role in steering one towards the path of entrepreneurial success. Each step taken, each hurdle overcome, contributes to the growth of not only the venture but also the individual behind it.
Shashvat Nakrani, Co-founder, BharatPe
I believe in surrounding myself with positive, self-driven, relentless individuals whose drive is to succeed in life. These are the kinds who plan for the long term while living in the present. Budding entrepreneurs should focus on training hard, while approaching their work with a creative mindset. It’s good to be passionate about work, but equally important to take out time to relax and unwind. My philosophy is centred around finding a balance between hard work and enjoying life and I encourage entrepreneurs to follow the same. Lastly, team is most important and budding entrepreneurs should find people who can join hands with them to scale mountains.
Dilip Modi, Founder, Spice Money
Entrepreneurs play a vital role in driving industrial growth and expanding economies. India now stands as the third-largest global hub for startups, boasting 107 unicorns worth $340.79 billion collectively, projected to grow to 250 by 2025 according to The Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2022. These innovative startups have successfully tackled challenges in IT, education, healthcare, and agriculture, garnering global recognition.
Entrepreneurs embody the essence of dreamers, risk-takers, and innovators who are reshaping the world. My entrepreneurial journey is a tapestry woven with innovation, determination, and an unyielding pursuit of impact. I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey early in life, envisioning technology as a force capable of reshaping landscapes, transcending boundaries, and serving as a key enabler for achieving inclusive growth. Through diverse endeavors, I’ve discovered that entrepreneurship’s true power lies in empowering and driving meaningful change, beyond mere profits. My journey emphasizes that an entrepreneur’s legacy isn’t measured solely in personal gains but in the positive impact on individuals, communities, and the larger society.
The successful journey of Spice Money taught me that even audacious ideas can flourish when driven by genuine service and empowerment and how collective wisdom can elevate communities. Through its innovative platform, it empowers youth, unlocking their inner entrepreneur, and creating a path for them to become “nanopreneurs.” Currently, Spice Money has a network of more than 12.7 lakh Adhikari/nanopreneurs, serving and positively impacting the lives of people in emerging India. This forward-looking initiative not only champions entrepreneurship but also envisions a future where the youth take center stage in shaping the business landscape. On this World Entrepreneurs Day, I would like to celebrate the indomitable spirit of entrepreneurship and extend my heartfelt appreciation to all the dedicated entrepreneurs who relentlessly endeavor to propel India’s trajectory to new heights.
Rahul Pagidipati, CEO, ZebPay
Entrepreneurs are the driving force behind progress, pushing boundaries and redefining possibilities. In my journey as an entrepreneur, I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of resilience and determination. It’s not just about the wins; it’s about the lessons learned from failures and the unwavering commitment to keep moving forward. The startup ecosystem, especially in India, is a testament to the incredible resourcefulness and creativity that entrepreneurs bring to the table.
In the ever-evolving landscape of technology startups, there’s a dynamic synergy between innovation and entrepreneurship. The world of crypto, in particular, exemplifies this convergence. According to a Gartner survey, the market value of blockchain technology is anticipated to surge to $3.1 trillion by the start of the next decade. Tech entrepreneurs have the opportunity to harness the potential of blockchain and crypto to enhance financial systems and foster financial inclusion on a global scale.
As we navigate a world of rapid technological advancements, entrepreneurs must stay adaptable and open to new ideas. Embracing the transformative potential of blockchain can lead to groundbreaking solutions in areas such as decentralized finance, supply chain management, and beyond. I strongly believe that these technologies offer not only financial empowerment but also a new paradigm for transparent and secure transactions. I will continue to work towards fostering an environment that nurtures and supports the goal of providing equitable access to financial independence for all.
Avinash Shekhar, CEO & Founder, TaxNodes
In the realm of entrepreneurship, India stands out as a beacon of transparency and credibility. Its tech startup arena ranks third globally, a testament to our unwavering innovation. The entrepreneurs here exhibit remarkable resilience, transforming visions into reality.
World Entrepreneurs’ Day shines a spotlight on the vibrant spirit of innovation in India.
Here, more people are taking the exciting leap into entrepreneurship, crafting their own paths to success. It’s a reminder that starting something new isn’t limited by age or conventional expectations. My journey with TaxNodes, a platform designed to simplify crypto taxation, is a testament to the power of creativity, resilience, and the pursuit of impact. Just as every entrepreneur faces challenges, we’ve navigated the complexities of taxation to simplify and empower. This day applauds not only accomplishments but also the inspiring stories of entrepreneurs who choose a unique road. As we celebrate, let’s recognize how the entrepreneurial spirit, when embraced, can reshape lives and make a lasting impact.
In this dynamic scenario, TaxNodes emerges as a catalyst, empowering investors to seamlessly navigate regulations. We provide an array of tools and resources for comprehending crypto taxation and making informed investment decisions. Our mission aligns with an evolving future, marked by creativity and economic growth.
Nick Bahl, Co-Founder, ReelStar
Recently India emerged as the third largest tech startup ecosystem in the world, according to a report by NASSCOM. This is a testament to the unwavering spirit of innovation and the boundless determination that entrepreneurs infuse into the business landscape in this country. I applaud every entrepreneur’s courage to resilience in the face of adversity, and their ability to turn dreams into realities.
Our journey with ReelStar has been a story of translating vision into action, of breaking down barriers, and of relentless pursuit of excellence. Along this journey, we’ve learned invaluable lessons – the significance of adaptability, the power of embracing change, and the art of balancing risk with strategic foresight. This day is a reminder that entrepreneurship isn’t just about business; it’s about a mindset – a willingness to challenge norms and create meaningful impact.
As we mark the World Entrepreneurs’ Day, I see ReelStar as a cornerstone of change. Our platform catalyzes transformation, offering creators tools to monetize their passion. In India, where the creator economy grows at 25%, ReelStar becomes the springboard for their dreams. This aligns with our belief that the future embraces decentralized frameworks, amplifying creativity, connection, and economic prosperity.
Om Malviya, President of Tezos India, a blockchain adoption entity
On this special day, Tezos India would like to thank all the blockchain believers for their constant innovation and path breaking Dapps (decentralised apps) on Tezos Blockchain. Our 75000+ strong community is an astounding statement of successful blockchain adoption in India. I am proud to be an entrepreneur, and I am inspired by the work of other entrepreneurs who are using blockchain technology to make a difference. Tezos India is committed to nurturing the next generation of “Block preneurs” who will use this technology to solve real-world problems and build a more equitable and sustainable world. We believe that India has the potential to be a global leader in blockchain innovation. We are excited to be a part of this journey and to help make India the center of block chain innovation.
Shivam Thakral, CEO of BuyUcoin, India’s second-longest running digital asset exchange
An entrepreneur creates something valuable from nothing. It’s about the courage to take risks and the determination to achieve their business goals. I want to celebrate the entrepreneurs who are changing the world with their Blockchain and digital asset ventures. Even during the funding winter, Web3 entrepreneurs kept going by cutting operational costs some of them going to the extent of letting go their salaries just to keep their company alive. The Startup India program has been instrumental in creating a fertile startup ecosystem in India where great ideas are nurtured and turned into global businesses. The new breed of Web3 entrepreneurs is using cutting-edge technology to solve real-world problems and create new opportunities for young talents. I admire entrepreneurs who are deploying digital assets and blockchain tech to deliver financial services to the unbanked population around the world. Entrepreneurs need the support of regulatory authorities and the establishment to turn their ideas into reality and we are hopeful that the upcoming G20 meet will engage in a constructive dialogue around policy framework for digital assets.
Riddhi Punjani, Co-founder of 1 2 101
Being an entrepreneur is like making music with your friends. When these skills blend harmoniously, they create something incredible – a successful venture. We all have unique skills that combine to create something spectacular. We can achieve success as a team, much as in a band.
Rahim Lakhani, Co-founder of 1 2 101
A big-idea entrepreneur brings people together like a team. They may make dreams come true by assisting each individual to shine and working together. It’s like doing something fun with your pals. Transforming visions into reality, creating an environment where success is a shared journey.
Roop Partap Choudhary, award-winning International Hotelier-Taking global hospitality by storm
As Managing Director of the Jewel Group of Hotels (the parent organisation of brand Noormahal Palace), he is aggressively expanding the company’s horizons towards Eastern Europe with a base in London, carrying the proud Indian heritage and traditions to destinations like Prague and Berlin. When the hospitality landscape across the globe was shaking due to the pandemic, Brexit, and cost of living crisis, Roop dared to take India’s art and culinary delight in the form of a unique dining concept to the heart of London. Colonel Saab, a modern Indian restaurant from Roop Partap Choudhary not only survived but thrived to be named one of the top Indian restaurants by Forbes and won various prestigious awards including the Best Restaurant in Feed the Lion awards. In a short span of time Colonel Saab started welcoming regulars from Nobel Peace Prize winner, Malala Yousafzai to pop icons, TV stars, and presidents. Inspired by the travel tales of Roop’s father, an Indian Army officer Col. Manbeer Choudhary and mother Mrs. Binny Choudhary across the Indian subcontinent, created by Roop as a “love letter” to his family, as well as homage to India, Colonel Saab has taken London Hospitality by storm. Roop is also an avid art collector and his passion for collecting art and antiques can also be seen in the inspiring décor of Noormahal Palace and Colonel Saab.
Pawan Kumar, Entrepreneur & Co-founder of ShipEase
“Don’t assume that borrowing lots of money can make your startup fly. World Entrepreneur Day honors entrepreneurs who bravely create sustainable and profitable businesses. There are many things to the business other than investors, and it’s possible to succeed with your startup without breaking the bank. Entrepreneurs, the change-makers, motivate us to take risks, come up with new ideas, and keep going. They drive growth and help to create a sustainable future. Let’s celebrate these innovators today for their perseverance and vision in creating not just successful businesses but also a better world for all of us.”
Ram N Kumar, CEO and Founder of NirogStreet-The Man on the mission of making Ayurveda the first call of treatment for future generations
NirogStreet has been recognized and mentioned by Honourable Prime Minister Modi in his renowned “Man Ki Baat” address. NirogStreet’s mission to make Ayurveda the first call for treatment is actively driving towards achieving this goal. Founded in June 2016, NirogStreet is an impact organization that leverages technology to connect individuals with authentic Ayurveda doctors on a global scale. With a network of over 100,000+ doctors, NirogStreet has become the epitome of innovation in Indian healthcare. Over 1.5 lakh case studies have been shared through NirogStreet platform, benefiting more than 7 million patients who received treatments from our esteemed partner doctors. As the world embraces proactive healthcare, the demand for holistic healing methods like Ayurveda has reached an all-time high. NirogStreet has established a robust ecosystem that fosters collaboration between Ayurveda practitioners, experts, and organizations. By working closely with the Ministry of AYUSH, regulators, and research organizations, NirogStreet has curated a unique platform for doctors to publish case studies and research reports, bringing evidence-based treatment to the forefront.
Dr. Rahul Walawalkar-Founder & President of IESA-Committed towards India’s green future
Dr. Rahul Walawalkar is a renowned energy storage expert and a prominent voice in the green energy industry. He has been at the forefront of several initiatives promoting green hydrogen, sustainable energy and more. A strong votary of improving energy storage and e-mobility in India, Rahul founded the India Energy Storage Alliance in 2012 and continues to serve as its President. He has also served as the board member for Energy Storage Association, USA during 2009-15 and as the Chair for Global Energy Storage Alliance during 2018-20. In 2022, NITI Aayog selected Rahul to serve on Technical Advisory Committee: Energy Sector Evaluation as part of the Development Monitoring and Evaluation Office of NITI Aayog. In 2021, Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) of India inducted Rahul to be part of the Central Advisory Committee of the power regulator. Ministry of Power also inducted Rahul in 2021 to be part of Technical committee to be part of committee constituted to submit draft of comprehensive policy framework and recommend other necessary interventions and measures for promotion of storage related projects to Ministry of Power.
Naman Jain- Edupreneur making progressive learning the new norm in satellite towns
Naman Jain is a young educator, education policy expert and progressive pedagogy specialist. He has gained a prominent position in India’s promising education sector due to the exemplary work he has done as a Director at Silver Line Prestige School, Ghaziabad. His raise to prominence in such a short span can be attributed to his strong will power, caliber, conviction, dedication and leadership quality. He is aggressively working towards nurturing the 21st century learners equipped with futuristic learning skills, universal human values and leadership attributes. In his journey to transform the face of progressive learning in India, he is on the task to nurture the future generation so that they can reap the rich dividends of progressive and experiential education.
Binny Choudhary- Managing Director of Noormahal Palace Hotel- Redifing Heritage Luxury in India
As the Managing Director of Noormahal Palace Hotel, Karnal, Binny Choudhary’s journey in the hospitality industry started when her husband Manbeer Choudhary, an ex army man and a true hospitality veteran, had the vision to build an Indian Luxury hospitality brand that would be second to none. With her unwavering dedication and tireless efforts, Binny successfully infused the property with an awe-inspiring collection of antiques and artworks, making it a true jewel in the crown of India’s Luxury hospitality industry. Taking the family legacy of world-class hospitality her son Roop Partap Choudhary has played an instrumental role in making Noormahal Palace Hotel one of India’s most instagrammable palace hotel and a sought-after wedding destination in Asian subcontinent.
Charuvi Agrawal, award-winning Filmmaker and Founder of CDL- Empowering women via kids content and promoting India’s cultural legacy through animation
At the age of 23, Charuvi was facilitated at the “Incredible India @60” festival in New York by Coca-Cola as one of “the emerging 10 who would transform the global artistic landscape”. She made it to The Limca Book of Records twice for her invention of a new art form Claytronics, and for building a travelling exhibition, Bells of Light. Bells of Light was a 25-feet interactive installation in the form of a sculpture of Shri Hanuman, made using 26,000 bells. In claytronics, she uses clay to create humorous miniature 3-D sculptures, each telling a topical story. Charuvi has designed immersive experiences for the famous Tagbin Teleportation bus in Rohtang, a groundbreaking project that sets a new standard for immersive travel experiences. She recently concluded a project for Invoxel Technologies at the five-day national philatelic exhibition by The Department of Posts in Delhi that was attended and appreciated by President Droupadi Murmu. Charuvi’s exemplary artwork has been displayed at renowned public forums besides being in the homes of discerning collectors in India. Charuvi’s Shri Hanuman Chalisa- a short animation film made it big on Oscar-qualifying international film festivals including Palm Springs, Anima Mundi, Edinburgh Film Festival etc. In her endeavour to bring the audience closer to Indian museums and cultural centers, Charuvi is also leveraging visual and digital art to a great extent.
Shreya Pathak, Co-founder of Media Curry
When challenges arise, entrepreneurs demonstrate their agility, bending without breaking, much like the supple branches of that tree. With unwavering determination, they transform obstacles into stepping stones, paving the way for even greater achievements. Just as a storm refines the tree’s roots, adversities refine and fortify the spirit of successful entrepreneurs. The journey is a testament to the power of adaptability, turning setbacks into stepping stones towards a future defined by their unwavering spirit.
Arpit Agarwaal, Founder of FoodGinie
The spirit of this day, I believe, revolves around survival. Of the ones who trusted you in this journey and if things go right, ourself. We start small, solving a seemingly daunting issue and we find ourselves fighting the cobweb of tertiary issue around the same, that we did not see earlier. This is when, more than often, we experience the urge to hang our boots and look for newer opportunities. But is this how we know entrepreneurship?
Being the proud Bharatiya, I take pride in the fact that I hail from the soil that has produced Entrepreneurs like Jamshed Ji Tata, Narayan Murthy, Ganga Bishan Agarwal and uncountable others that repeatedly faced failure. But in their own different ways their persistence to deny failure shaped the world we live see, today. And this change is not confined to Indian Borders
Failure, rejections, denials, betrayals…It’s all worth it.
Mr. Beas Dev Ralhan, CEO, of Next Education
On this World Entrepreneurs’ Day, we celebrate the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines entrepreneurs worldwide. Entrepreneurship drives economic growth and transformation, demanding dedication and the vision to see opportunities in challenges.
As CEO of Next Education, I lead a passionate team dedicated to revolutionizing education through technology. Our entrepreneurial spirit fuels innovation and empowers educators and students.
Here’s to the entrepreneurs who dare to dream, defy the odds, and believe in their ability to make a difference. Happy World Entrepreneurs’ Day! Together, we are the architects of progress.”
Mr. Sudhanshu Agarwal, Founder & CEO, of Citykart Retail
Retail players are increasingly targeting Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities due to the rapid growth of the value fashion retail market and the integration of technology with retail in the digital India era is transforming consumer interactions and expectations. Retail entrepreneurs are driving India into a new era by addressing various challenges and providing personalized experiences to attract customers. The evolution of retail demonstrates resilience and adaptability, with consumer aspirations playing a key role in shaping the future marketplace
Ishita Arora, Co-founder of Media Curry
The journey of an entrepreneur is a story of turning your setbacks into comebacks. Regardless of which field you work in, failures are always a stepping stone to success. Your dedication towards your work will not only shape your business but also your destiny. And to my fellow women entrepreneurs, you are the embodiment of strength and grace, shattering glass ceilings with every stride. Our canvas is vast, our palette is vibrant, and our spirit is unbreakable. Here’s to our journey, illuminated by the unwavering light of passion and perseverance.
Umang Sangal, Founder of Uplifters
On this Entrepreneur Day, I am feeling proud to be an innovator and founder of Uplifters which provides students a platform to advance their professional skills and job opportunities to start their career.
The journey of the Uplifters is a result of my passion and ingenuity towards society, as I always wanted to repay my society in some ways. Entrepreneurship is not just simply a job title but it’s a promise to create a better tomorrow, and that’s what I want to do through Uplifters.
Entrepreneurs are strong in the face of challenges because their motivation comes from a creative dream and World Entrepreneur Day marks the celebration of audacious dreams. To all the pioneers and dreamers, Happy Entrepreneur Day! Let’s Bring Light..
Dr. Somdutta Singh, Founder & CEO, Assiduus Global Inc.
There is a wonderful sloka from the Bhagavad Gita that reads…
यथा ह्येकेन चक्रेण न रथस्य गतिर्भवेत्।
एवं परुषकारेण विना दैवं न सिद्ध्यति।।
This simply means that just like a chariot cannot move on one wheel, we cannot change or attain our destiny without hard work and effort.
Through my years as an entrepreneur, I’ve acquired invaluable insights. Every person who crosses my path teaches me a different lesson. I have learned to understand that leaders wear multifaceted hats, self-awareness encompassing mental and physical well-being is of paramount importance, effective communication serves as a linchpin, and always being present is a necessity. I have also learned that adversities come hand-in-hand with opportunities. In the tumultuous landscape surpassing 2020 and beyond, when a global pandemic presented an escalating array of challenges, not just for me but for every person, every entrepreneur, and every founder, I knew, I had to propel forward with my team and my organization and keep driving through, not back down.
When I embarked on the journey I am on, I had no compass to guide my path. I have shaped and carved my own path, and in my reckoning, the cornerstone of venturing into new horizons has been my self-assurance, my confidence, and conviction in my thoughts, my aspirations, my destination, and my direction. See, external influences will also kindle inspiration and challenges, but your inner voice has to propel you with unrivalled momentum. If you have to forge innovation, your foundation of vision has to be the strongest.
I believe that profound capability resides within all of us. It is just the confidence that forges our path ahead.
