Deepinder Goyal, CEO of Zomato, discussed his father’s initial reaction to his company idea at the Vishesh Sampark event, which was sponsored by Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. Goyal’s thoughts shed light on the problems and perceptions that early-stage entrepreneurs in India encounter.
A Father’s Reaction to a Startup Dream
Deepinder Goyal, CEO of Zomato, recently revealed a sad story from over two decades ago when he first considered founding his own firm. Goyal spoke at the Vishesh Sampark event, which was hosted by Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar. He described his father’s reaction to his entrepreneurial ambitions.
“Jaanta Hai Tera Baap Kaun Hai?”
The statement, roughly translated as “Do you know who your father is?” was Goyal’s father’s way of expressing doubt about his son’s capacity to start a business. “I founded Zomato 16 years ago, in 2008. And my father informed me at the time, ‘Jaanta hai tera baap kaun hai?’ And his point was, ‘You can’t build a startup. Right… “I come from a small town in Punjab,” Goyal explained.
Changing Perceptions of Startups
Goyal discussed how attitudes of startups have altered dramatically in recent years. Skepticism and uncertainty surrounding entrepreneurship in India are progressively giving way to hope and encouragement. According to Goyal, this transformation can be attributed in part to the government’s aggressive attempts to promote and assist businesses.
Vishesh Sampark Event Highlights
The Vishesh Sampark event, held on May 20, drew innovators, thinkers, startup leaders, and IT experts from all around the country. The event, hosted at Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri’s home, was intended to explore India’s digital transformation and future possibilities under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. Goyal’s address at the ceremony, which combined his father’s sentiments with his own entrepreneurial career, instantly grabbed attention on social media. The video not only highlighted his personal experiences but also presented an overview of India’s rapidly developing startup scene.
Government’s Role in Supporting Startups
During his remarks, Goyal expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts to assist startups. He complimented different government initiatives with creating a favorable climate for entrepreneurs, emphasizing the positive impact of these activities on the startup ecosystem. Several well-known people from the startup and technology industries attended the event. Among them were Abhiraj Singh Bhal, founder of Urban Company, Rajan Anandan, Managing Director of Peak XV Partners, Pankaj Mohindroo, chairman of the Indian Cellular Association, Gaurav Chaudhary (Technical Guruji), a popular YouTuber, Rohan Verma, CEO of Map My India, and Varun Alagh, co-founder of Honasa Consumer, among others.
Deepinder Goyal’s Background
Deepinder Goyal, born in 1983 in Muktsar, Punjab, hails from a poor family, as both of his parents are teachers. In an interview, Goyal admitted that he was an average student in school. His father once had to ask his instructor to let him pass class 5. However, a substantial improvement occurred in Class 8, thanks to the leadership of a sympathetic instructor. “When the exam results were declared, I was in the top three of my class,” Goyal told YourStory, describing it as a watershed moment in his life.
A Journey of Perseverance
Goyal’s rise from average student to CEO of a large food delivery business demonstrates his resilience and commitment. His narrative serves as encouragement for many ambitious entrepreneurs who overcome doubts and obstacles on their way to success. Earlier this year, Goyal married Grecia Munoz, a former model. His media profile extends beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits; he served as a judge on the third season of the renowned reality show Shark Tank India.
Union Minister’s Support for Startups
Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, who hosted the Vishesh Sampark event, stressed the government’s commitment to promoting the startup environment. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to address the country’s digital transformation, as well as the role of startups in promoting innovation and growth. The government’s programs, such as Startup India, have been instrumental in fostering a conducive climate for companies. These efforts have offered entrepreneurs the resources, mentorship, and financial help they need to start and grow their firms.
Deepinder Goyal’s Reflection
Reflecting on his father’s first reaction and subsequent journey, Goyal emphasized the value of tenacity and India’s expanding startup support system. He urged prospective entrepreneurs to pursue their objectives despite initial doubts and obstacles. Deepinder Goyal’s narrative serves as a strong reminder of India’s shifting entrepreneurial scene. From confronting skepticism to becoming a successful entrepreneur, his experience demonstrates the value of resilience and the benefits of helpful government policies. As more people become entrepreneurs, stories like Goyal’s will continue to inspire and drive innovation in India’s startup environment.
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