PK Chandana, who launched India’s 1st private rocket, scored 51 in maths; later cleared JEE
The journey to success is often paved with setbacks, rejections, and failures. However, it is how we respond to these challenges that defines our character and determines our destiny. Pawan Kumar Chandana, the Co-founder of Skyroot Aerospace, is a shining example of this. Chandana, the man behind the launch of India’s first private rocket to space, was once an average student who struggled with mathematics, scoring a mere 51 marks in the subject. Yet, with the support of his family and his own determination, he was able to turn his academic career around, clearing the prestigious Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) and going on to study at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur.
Chandana’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of never giving up on one’s dreams. According to Deedy Das, Chandana’s father played a significant role in his academic turnaround. Despite his son’s poor performance in mathematics, he refused to give up on him. Instead, he got Chandana enrolled in IIT-JEE coaching, where he was able to improve his academic performance and develop a passion for science and mathematics. This decision proved to be a turning point in Chandana’s life, setting him on a path that would eventually lead him to become a pioneer in India’s private space industry.
In 2007, Chandana joined IIT-Kharagpur, one of the most prestigious engineering institutions in the country. It was during his time at IIT that he developed a strong foundation in science and mathematics, which would later serve as the bedrock for his future endeavors. Chandana’s academic journey is a reminder that success is not solely dependent on one’s innate abilities, but rather on the efforts one puts in to develop their skills and knowledge.
After completing his education, Chandana went on to work with several organizations, including the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). These experiences not only deepened his understanding of the space industry but also instilled in him a sense of purpose and ambition. In 2018, Chandana, along with his friend and colleague, Naga Bharath Daka, founded Skyroot Aerospace, with the vision of making India a hub for private space technology.
The journey to launching India’s first private rocket to space was not an easy one. Chandana and his team at Skyroot Aerospace faced numerous challenges, from securing funding to developing the necessary technology. However, they persevered, driven by their passion for space exploration and their determination to make a mark in the industry. On November 18, 2022, their hard work paid off, as they successfully launched the Vikram-S, India’s first private rocket, into space.
Chandana’s achievement is not just a personal triumph but also a milestone for the Indian space industry. The launch of the Vikram-S has marked the beginning of a new era in private space technology in India, with several other companies and startups now looking to follow in Skyroot Aerospace’s footsteps. The success of Chandana and his team has also sparked a renewed interest in space exploration among young Indians, inspiring a new generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.
Chandana’s story is also a reminder of the importance of family support and guidance. His father’s decision to enroll him in IIT-JEE coaching, despite his poor performance in mathematics, was a crucial turning point in his life. It highlights the role that parents and guardians can play in helping their children overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
In conclusion, PK Chandana’s journey from being an average student who scored 51 in mathematics to launching India’s first private rocket to space is a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and perseverance. His story serves as an inspiration to students, entrepreneurs, and anyone who has ever faced setbacks and rejections. It shows that with the right mindset and support, anyone can achieve their dreams and make a mark in their chosen field.
As India continues to make strides in the space industry, Chandana’s achievement will be remembered as a significant milestone. His legacy will inspire future generations of scientists, engineers, and innovators to pursue their passions and push the boundaries of what is possible.
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