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- juhikothari86
From Rejection to Triumph: Blind CEO Builds Rs 50 Crore Company Empowering the Disabled
At just 23 years old, Srikanth Bolla defied the odds to become the CEO of Hyderabad-based Bollant Industries, a thriving enterprise with a turnover of Rs 50 crore. Despite facing discrimination for his blindness since birth, Srikanth's journey is one of resilience, determination, and a commitment to empowering the disabled community.
Born blind in Sitaramapuram, Andhra Pradesh, Srikanth encountered prejudice from the outset, with villagers advising his parents to let him perish. Undeterred, his parents nurtured his potential, instilling in him a belief in his abilities. Despite obstacles such as being sidelined in school and facing resistance from education authorities, Srikanth excelled academically, topping his Class 10 and Class 12 exams.
However, his ambitions to pursue engineering at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) were dashed when he was denied admission. Refusing to be disheartened, Srikanth turned his sights abroad and secured admission to top U.S. universities, ultimately choosing the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Upon graduating, he eschewed lucrative corporate opportunities in America to return to India and address the challenges faced by the disabled.
In 2012, Srikanth founded Bollant Industries with a mission to provide employment opportunities to the physically challenged. Today, the company employs over 150 disabled individuals across five manufacturing units, producing eco-friendly disposable packaging products. With annual sales exceeding Rs 70 million, Bollant Industries is not only a commercial success but also a beacon of social change.
Srikanth's vision extends beyond business success; he aims to build a workforce where 70% are people with disabilities, challenging societal perceptions and fostering inclusivity. His journey from rejection to triumph serves as an inspiration, proving that with determination and innovation, barriers can be overcome, and dreams can be realized.
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