In the rapidly evolving digital world, Azhar Iqubal stands out as a trailblazing entrepreneur who has revolutionized the way news is consumed. From his humble beginnings in Bihar to his meteoric rise as the co-founder of Inshorts, Azhar’s journey is a testament to innovation, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His story is not just about entrepreneurial success but also about creating an impactful legacy that inspires millions.
Early Life and Education: The Foundation of a Visionary
Born in 1993 in Kishanganj, Bihar, Azhar Iqubal grew up in New Delhi, where he spent much of his childhood. From an early age, he displayed a keen interest in academics and technology. His educational journey began at some of India’s finest schools, which laid the foundation for his analytical and innovative mindset.
Azhar’s educational trajectory took a significant turn when he secured admission to the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi in 2009 to study computer science engineering. While IIT is often considered the pinnacle of academic achievement in India, Azhar’s journey there was unique. By 2012, driven by a passion for innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit, he made the bold decision to drop out and carve his own path.
The Birth of Inshorts: A Game-Changer in News Consumption
The idea of Inshorts was born out of a simple yet powerful observation: the younger generation was moving away from traditional news formats. Azhar, along with his friends and co-founders Deepti Purkayastha and Anunay Pandey, recognized the need for a platform that could deliver news in a concise and engaging manner. This insight led to the creation of a Facebook page called “News in Shorts,” which eventually evolved into the Inshorts app in 2013.
Inshorts introduced a revolutionary concept of presenting news in 60-word summaries, catering to the fast-paced lifestyles of millennials. The app’s simplicity and efficiency struck a chord with users, making it a resounding success. By 2023, Inshorts boasted over 10 million active users and had become one of India’s most popular news apps.
Scaling New Heights: Public App and Beyond
Azhar’s entrepreneurial vision extended beyond Inshorts. In 2019, he and his team launched the Public app, a platform aimed at connecting local communities through video-based news and updates. This app quickly gained traction, especially in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, and received significant investments, including Rs. 300 crore in 2021.
Under Azhar’s leadership, both Inshorts and Public became benchmarks of innovation in India’s tech ecosystem. By 2023, Inshorts had achieved a valuation of INR 3,700 crore, reflecting its impact and success.
Azhar Iqubal on Shark Tank India: Guiding Future Entrepreneurs
In 2023, Azhar Iqubal joined the popular business reality show Shark Tank India as a judge, or “Shark.” His participation on the show highlighted his deep understanding of entrepreneurship and his ability to identify scalable business ideas. As a judge, Azhar provided valuable feedback and invested in innovative startups, solidifying his reputation as a business leader and mentor.
Azhar’s candid communication style and practical advice resonated with both the contestants and viewers. His presence on the show not only motivated budding entrepreneurs but also underscored his commitment to nurturing India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Personal Life: A Low-Key but Focused Individual
Despite his professional achievements, Azhar has managed to keep his personal life private. Unmarried and focused on his ventures, he dedicates most of his time to growing his businesses and exploring new opportunities. Azhar’s love for reading and staying updated with current affairs reflects his intellectual curiosity and commitment to continuous learning.
Awards and Recognitions: A Testament to Excellence
Azhar Iqubal’s innovative contributions have earned him several prestigious awards and accolades. Some of his most notable achievements include:
- Forbes India 30 Under 30 (2018)
- Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 (2018)
- Fortune India 40 Under 40 (2016)
- Business World 40 Under 40 (2018)
- Entrepreneur of the Year (Media) by Entrepreneur India Magazine (2022)
- Business World Young Entrepreneur Award
These recognitions highlight Azhar’s impact on the media and technology industries and his dedication to creating groundbreaking solutions.
Net Worth: A Reflection of Success
As of 2023, Azhar Iqubal’s estimated net worth stands at INR 3,700 crore. This wealth primarily stems from his ventures like Inshorts and Public, as well as strategic investments in other businesses. Azhar’s financial success is a testament to his entrepreneurial acumen and his ability to create value in the digital age.
Social Media Presence: Inspiring the Next Generation
Azhar Iqubal is active on social media, where he shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey and updates about his ventures. His Instagram profile (@azhar.iqubal), with over 140,000 followers, serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs.
The Legacy of Azhar Iqubal
Azhar Iqubal’s journey from a small-town boy to a celebrated entrepreneur is a story of grit, innovation, and perseverance. Through Inshorts, Public, and his other ventures, he has redefined the way information is consumed and created platforms that empower millions.
Azhar’s success is a reminder that unconventional paths often lead to extraordinary outcomes. His ability to identify opportunities, coupled with his unwavering dedication, has made him a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs. As he continues to innovate and inspire, Azhar Iqubal is undoubtedly shaping the future of business and technology in India.
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FAQs about Azhar Iqubal
Who is Azhar Iqubal?
Azhar Iqubal is the co-founder of Inshorts, a popular news app, and a judge on Shark Tank India.
What is Azhar Iqubal’s educational background?
Azhar was a computer science engineering student at IIT Delhi but dropped out in 2012 to pursue entrepreneurship.
What are Azhar Iqubal’s notable achievements?
He has been featured in Forbes India 30 Under 30 (2018), Fortune India 40 Under 40 (2016), and Entrepreneur of the Year (2022), among others.
Is Azhar Iqubal married?
No, Azhar Iqubal is unmarried and keeps his personal life private.
What is Azhar Iqubal’s net worth?
As of 2023, his estimated net worth is INR 3,700 crore.