With the anticipation building for the third season of Shark Tank, a new lineup of judges is making headlines, including Azhar Iqubal. Hailing from Bihar, India, Azhar is renowned for his groundbreaking work in technology, notably as the CEO of the popular Inshorts News app. Despite challenges, Azhar’s journey exemplifies the power of self-belief and strategic decision-making in achieving success.
Early Life and Education: Born in Kishanganj, Bihar, Azhar’s upbringing instilled in him a passion for learning, despite limited resources. His academic excellence paved the way for admission to the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, where he pursued Computer Science on a scholarship. Azhar’s journey in technology and entrepreneurship began here, setting the stage for his future endeavors.
Entrepreneurial Journey: Post-college, Azhar, along with his peers Deepti Purkayastha and Anunay Pandey, delved into the startup ecosystem. Their brainchild, “News in Shorts,” originated on Facebook in 2013, capturing audiences with concise news summaries. The subsequent launch of the Inshorts app propelled Azhar into the spotlight, with the company’s valuation soaring to ₹3,700 crore by 2023. Azhar’s ventures extended beyond Inshorts, with successful forays into projects like the “Public” social media app, cementing his status as a luminary in the Indian tech landscape.
Role as a Shark Tank Judge: Azhar’s entrepreneurial prowess garnered attention, leading to his role as a guest judge on Shark Tank Season 03. Armed with expertise in technology and startups, Azhar evaluates pitches from aspiring entrepreneurs, offering invaluable insights. His inclusion underscores the increasing significance of technology and innovation in business, inspiring budding entrepreneurs globally.
Biography and Personal Achievements: Azhar’s accolades, including Forbes India 30 under 30 and Fortune India 40 under 40, underscore his contributions to the business world. At just 31 years old, Azhar’s net worth stands at an impressive INR 500 crore, reflecting his entrepreneurial acumen and success. Beyond business, Azhar’s passion for cars exemplifies his penchant for luxury and performance, adding another dimension to his multifaceted persona.
Investments and Net Worth: Inshorts’ staggering success, with investments exceeding USD 119 million, underscores Azhar’s prowess in building scalable ventures. His net worth of INR 500 crore further solidifies his stature as a self-made entrepreneur, with accolades like the Business World Young Entrepreneur Award further embellishing his legacy.
Conclusion: Azhar Iqubal’s journey from a modest upbringing to the forefront of the tech industry is a testament to perseverance and innovation. As a Shark Tank judge, he embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship, offering guidance to aspiring innovators. Azhar’s story serves as an inspiration, proving that with determination and ingenuity, one can overcome obstacles and achieve greatness. His presence on Shark Tank and commitment to nurturing talent underscore his status as a visionary leader in the business world.
