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, the company behind the launch of India’s first private rocket to space.
Chandana’s journey to success is a testament to the fact that with dedication, hard work, and the right guidance, anyone can overcome their weaknesses and achieve their goals. As reported by Financial Express, Chandana’s academic record was far from impressive, with him scoring a mere 51 marks in mathematics. However, his father, Deedy Das, refused to give up on him and instead got him enrolled in IIT-JEE coaching, which proved to be a turning point in Chandana’s life.
Under the guidance of experienced coaches and mentors, Chandana began to develop a love for science and mathematics, subjects that he had previously struggled with. His hard work and perseverance paid off, and in 2007, he cleared the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) and joined the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur. This marked the beginning of Chandana’s journey towards becoming a pioneer in the field of aerospace engineering.
After completing his education, Chandana worked with several top-notch companies, including Google and Microsoft, before deciding to pursue his passion for space technology. In 2018, he co-founded Skyroot Aerospace, a private aerospace manufacturer and launch services company based in Hyderabad. The company’s mission is to make space technology accessible and affordable for all, and it has been working tirelessly to develop cutting-edge rocket technology.
On November 18, 2022, Skyroot Aerospace made history by launching India’s first private rocket, Vikram-S, into space. The rocket, which was developed and built by a team of engineers led by Chandana, reached an altitude of 89.5 kilometers and marked a significant milestone in India’s space program. The launch was a testament to the capabilities of Indian scientists and engineers and paved the way for private companies to participate in the country’s space sector.
Chandana’s story is an inspiration to millions of students and young professionals who may be struggling with their academic or professional careers. It shows that success is not solely dependent on academic excellence, but rather on one’s passion, dedication, and hard work. As Chandana himself has said, “It’s not about being the best; it’s about being better than you were yesterday.”
Moreover, Chandana’s journey highlights the importance of supportive family and mentors in helping individuals achieve their goals. His father’s refusal to give up on him and his decision to enroll him in IIT-JEE coaching proved to be a game-changer in Chandana’s life. It emphasizes the need for parents and educators to identify and nurture the strengths and interests of their children, rather than just focusing on their weaknesses.
In conclusion, PK Chandana’s story is a shining example of how anyone can achieve greatness with the right mindset and support. From scoring 51 marks in mathematics to launching India’s first private rocket into space, Chandana’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and dedication. As India continues to make strides in the field of space technology, stories like Chandana’s will inspire a new generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators to pursue their dreams and make a meaningful impact on the world.
About the Author
