PK Chandana, who launched India’s 1st private rocket, scored 51 in maths; later cleared JEE
In a country where academic excellence is often considered the sole determinant of success, it’s refreshing to come across stories of individuals who defied the odds and achieved greatness despite not being top scorers in school. One such inspiring tale is that of Pawan Kumar Chandana, also known as PK Chandana, the co-founder of Skyroot Aerospace, a company that recently made history by launching India’s first private rocket into space.
Chandana’s journey to success is a testament to the fact that with hard work, determination, and the right guidance, anyone can overcome their weaknesses and achieve their goals. Born and brought up in Visakhapatnam, Chandana was an average student in school, with a particular weakness in mathematics. In fact, he scored a mere 51 marks in the subject, a score that would have discouraged many students from pursuing a career in science and technology.
However, Chandana’s father, Deedy Das, was not one to give up on his son’s potential. Recognizing that Chandana needed extra support to improve his academic performance, he enrolled him in IIT-JEE coaching classes. It was a decision that would change the course of Chandana’s life forever.
Under the guidance of experienced teachers and mentors, Chandana began to develop a passion for science and mathematics. He worked tirelessly to improve his understanding of the subjects, and his hard work paid off. In 2007, Chandana joined the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Kharagpur, one of the most coveted institutions in the country.
Chandana’s journey at IIT-Kharagpur was a transformative one. He was exposed to a world of cutting-edge technology and innovative thinking, which sparked his interest in aerospace engineering. He spent countless hours studying, experimenting, and learning from his peers, and soon, he became one of the top students in his class.
After completing his graduation, Chandana went on to work with some of the top companies in the aerospace industry, including ISRO and NASA. However, he soon realized that his true passion lay in building something of his own, something that would make a significant impact on the country’s space program.
And so, in 2018, Chandana co-founded Skyroot Aerospace, a private company that aimed to develop and launch India’s first private rocket into space. The journey was not an easy one, with numerous challenges and setbacks along the way. However, Chandana’s determination and perseverance kept him going, and on November 18, 2022, Skyroot Aerospace made history by launching India’s first private rocket, Vikram-S, into space.
The launch was a major milestone for India’s space program, marking a new era of private participation in the sector. It was also a testament to Chandana’s vision and leadership, which had brought together a team of talented engineers and scientists to achieve the impossible.
Chandana’s story is an inspiration to millions of students and young professionals across the country. It shows that success is not solely dependent on academic grades or scores, but on the willingness to learn, adapt, and persevere. It also highlights the importance of guidance and mentorship, which can make a significant difference in a person’s life.
As India continues to make strides in the space sector, Chandana’s achievement is a reminder that the country has a vast pool of talent and expertise that can be harnessed to achieve greatness. It’s a story that will motivate and inspire many to pursue their dreams, regardless of their background or academic credentials.
In conclusion, PK Chandana’s journey from being an average student to launching India’s first private rocket into space is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and innovation. His story is a reminder that success is within reach of anyone who is willing to put in the effort and persevere through challenges. As we celebrate this achievement, we must also recognize the importance of supporting and nurturing talent, regardless of academic grades or scores.
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