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 odds to achieve greatness. 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 in school, scoring a mere 51 marks in mathematics. However, with the support of his family and his own determination, he went on to clear the prestigious Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) and join the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), one of the most esteemed institutions in the country.
According to Deedy Das, Chandana’s journey to success was not without its challenges. His father, despite being disappointed with his son’s poor performance in mathematics, refused to give up on him. Instead, he got Chandana enrolled in IIT-JEE coaching, where he could receive specialized training and guidance to improve his academic performance. It was during this period that Chandana began to develop a passion for science and mathematics, subjects that would eventually become the foundation of his career.
Chandana’s hard work and dedication paid off when he cleared the JEE in 2007 and joined IIT-Kharagpur, one of the oldest and most respected IITs in the country. His time at IIT-Kharagpur was instrumental in shaping his future, as he was exposed to a rigorous academic curriculum and a vibrant community of students and faculty who shared his passion for science and technology.
After completing his education, Chandana went on to work with several leading organizations in the field of aerospace engineering, including the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). However, it was not until he co-founded Skyroot Aerospace in 2018 that he realized his true potential and made a name for himself in the industry.
Skyroot Aerospace is a private aerospace manufacturer and satellite launch services company that is headquartered in Hyderabad, India. The company has made significant strides in the field of space technology, including the development of India’s first private rocket, Vikram-I. The rocket, which was launched into space in November 2022, marked a major milestone for the Indian space industry and cemented Skyroot Aerospace’s position as a leading player in the field.
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 determination, hard work, and the right support, anyone can overcome their weaknesses and achieve greatness. As Chandana himself has said, “I was not a bright student, but I had a passion for science and mathematics. My father’s support and my own hard work helped me to achieve my goals.”
Chandana’s journey is also a testament to 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 turning point in his life. It shows that parents and family members can play a significant role in shaping the careers and lives of their children, 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 shining example of how anyone can achieve greatness with determination, hard work, and the right support. From scoring 51 marks in mathematics to launching India’s first private rocket into space, Chandana’s journey is an inspiration to us all. His story shows that it’s never too late to pursue our passions and make a difference in the world.
As we look to the future, it’s clear that the Indian space industry is poised for significant growth and development. With companies like Skyroot Aerospace leading the way, we can expect to see many more innovations and achievements in the field of space technology. And as we celebrate the successes of individuals like PK Chandana, we are reminded of the power of human potential and the importance of never giving up on our dreams.
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