PK Chandana, who launched India’s 1st private rocket, scored 51 in maths; later cleared JEE
The world of science and technology is full of inspiring stories of individuals who have overcome incredible obstacles to achieve their goals. One such story is that of Pawan Kumar Chandana, also known as PK Chandana, the Co-founder of Skyroot Aerospace, a company that has made history by launching India’s first private rocket into space. What’s even more remarkable about Chandana’s story is that he was an average student who scored just 51 marks in mathematics, a subject that is crucial for a career in science and technology.
According to Deedy Das, Chandana’s journey to success was not an easy one. His father, despite being disappointed with his son’s poor performance in mathematics, did not give up on him. Instead, he got Chandana enrolled in IIT-JEE coaching, where he could improve his academic performance and develop a love for science and mathematics. This decision proved to be a turning point in Chandana’s life, as he began to excel in his studies and eventually cleared the highly competitive JEE exam.
In 2007, Chandana joined IIT-Kharagpur, one of the most prestigious institutions in India, where he pursued his passion for science and technology. It was during his time at IIT-Kharagpur that Chandana developed a keen interest in aerospace engineering, a field that would eventually become his area of expertise. His hard work and dedication paid off, as he graduated from IIT-Kharagpur with a degree in aerospace engineering.
After completing his education, Chandana worked with several organizations, including the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), where he gained valuable experience and knowledge in the field of aerospace engineering. However, he soon realized that he wanted to do something more, something that would allow him to make a meaningful contribution to the field of space technology.
It was then that Chandana decided to start his own company, Skyroot Aerospace, with the goal of developing and launching India’s first private rocket into space. The journey was not an easy one, as Chandana and his team faced numerous challenges and obstacles along the way. However, they persevered, driven by their passion for space technology and their determination to succeed.
Finally, 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 Chandana and his team, reached an altitude of 89.5 kilometers and marked a major milestone in the development of India’s private space industry.
Chandana’s story is an inspiration to millions of students and young professionals who are struggling to find their place in the world. It shows that with hard work, dedication, and perseverance, anything is possible, regardless of one’s background or academic performance. As Chandana himself has said, “The most important thing is to have a passion for what you do, and to be willing to take risks and face challenges head-on.”
Chandana’s journey is also a testament to the power of parental support and guidance. His father’s decision to get him enrolled in IIT-JEE coaching, despite his poor performance in mathematics, proved to be a turning point in his life. It shows that parents play a crucial role in shaping their children’s futures, and that their support and guidance can make all the difference in helping them achieve their goals.
In conclusion, PK Chandana’s story is a reminder that success is not just about academic performance or background. It is about passion, hard work, and determination. It is about being willing to take risks and face challenges head-on, and about persevering in the face of adversity. As India’s private space industry continues to grow and evolve, Chandana’s story will serve as an inspiration to millions of young professionals who are looking to make a mark in the field of science and technology.
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