Srikanth Bolla
Srikanth Bolla, a successful entrepreneur, has joined the fourth season of the business reality show ‘Shark Tank India’ as a judge. He is the CEO, co-founder, and chairman of Bollant Industries Private Limited.
Srikanth recently shared the news on his Instagram, saying, “To survive among sharks, you need to become one. I am excited to join Shark Tank India as a new Shark.”
Fighting for His Right to Study Science
Srikanth always dreamed of studying at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). However, when he wanted to take science in 11th grade, his school refused because he was blind. He did not give up and filed a case against the Andhra Pradesh State Board in the High Court. After six months, the court ruled in his favor, allowing him to study science at his own risk.
Topping 12th Grade with 98% Marks
Despite the challenges, Srikanth not only completed 12th grade but also topped with 98% marks. However, when he applied for coaching to prepare for IIT entrance exams, coaching centers rejected him. He applied for IIT, NIT, and BITS Pilani entrance exams, but was denied a hall ticket because of his blindness.
Becoming MIT’s First International Blind Student
Although IITs rejected him, Srikanth did not lose hope. He applied to top U.S. universities and received offers from four: MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), Stanford, Berkeley, and Carnegie Mellon. He chose MIT and became its first international blind student.
After completing his studies, he received many job offers in the U.S. but decided to return to India and start his own business.
Becoming a Youth Leader in India
In 2005, Srikanth returned to India and became a youth leader under the ‘Lead India Program,’ which aimed to reduce poverty and unemployment. He trained over 800,000 young people in leadership, human values, and employability skills.
Starting a Braille Printing Press
In 2011, Srikanth co-founded the ‘Samanvay Center for Children with Multiple Disabilities’ in Hyderabad. This center provides free education and career guidance for visually impaired and disabled children, helping them become independent. That same year, he also launched a Braille printing press to make books and study materials available for blind students.
Co-Founding Bollant Industries
In 2012, Srikanth co-founded ‘Bollant Industries Private Limited’ with his lifelong mentor Swarnalatha Takkilapati and angel investor Ravi Mantha. Bollant Industries produces eco-friendly packaging and biodegradable products while providing employment opportunities to disabled individuals.
A Rs 100 Crore Company
Today, Bollant Industries has an annual turnover of over Rs 100 crore. The company employs more than 500 people, with over 70% being disabled. Even renowned businessman Ratan Tata has invested in Srikanth’s company.
Initially, the business started with a small capital of $19,000. Today, it is valued at over $60 million and has an annual turnover exceeding $12 million.
A Film Inspired by His Life
In 2024, a movie titled ‘Srikanth’ was released, inspired by his life. Bollywood actor Rajkummar Rao played the role of Srikanth, and the film was directed by Tushar Hiranandani.
Recognition and Awards
2015: NDTV Indian of the Year
2017: Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia
2018: Yuva Shramshakti Award
2020: Special Youth Inspiration Award
2021: Young Global Leader by World Economic Forum
2021: JCI USA listed him among the world’s top 10 most inspiring young people
In 2021, he was also appointed Vice President and Trustee Board Member of the Lead India Foundation, with a mission to train millions of young people by 2030. He has received several other awards, including the Satyamev Jayate Water Cup Award for environmental initiatives, the Asia Game Changer Award for empowering disabled individuals, and the CNN-News18 Super Hero Award for his contributions to society.
Srikanth Bolla’s journey from being rejected by schools to becoming a successful entrepreneur and a Shark Tank India judge is a true inspiration for millions.
Happy to know such an inspired real life !! May your all readers will be get motivated !