AZHAR IQUBAL

Early Life and Education

Azhar Iqubal was born on October 7, 1992, in Bihar, India. His upbringing was characterized by curiosity and a keen interest in information. This led him to pursue Mathematics and Computer Science at IIT Delhi, where he embarked on his academic journey.

Entrepreneurial Journey

Despite his academic pursuits, Iqubal's entrepreneurial spirit was strong. In 2013, he made the bold decision to drop out of IIT and co-found Inshorts with his classmates Anunay Pandey and Deepit Purkayastha. This marked the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey.

Inshorts Revolution

Inshorts, a news app delivering succinct updates in less than 60 words, emerged as a response to the evolving news consumption habits of the youth. The app quickly gained traction, boasting a significant user base that grew from 100,000 in December 2014 to nearly three million. Its success was further amplified when it expanded to Apple iPhones in 2015. By 2021, Inshorts had raised substantial funding, reaching a reported valuation of $550 million.

Expansion with Public App

Iqubal's entrepreneurial pursuits didn’t end with Inshorts. In 2019, he launched Public App, with the aim of digitally connecting Indian local communities. The app experienced rapid growth, attracting over 50 million active users within its first year of operation.

Recognition and Awards

Iqubal's contributions to the entrepreneurial landscape have not gone unnoticed. He has been the recipient of several prestigious industry awards and recognitions, including the Business World Young Entrepreneur Award. Additionally, he has been featured in esteemed lists like Forbes India 30 under 30.

Role as a Shark Tank India Judge

As a new judge on Shark Tank India, Iqubal leverages his experience and insights to inspire and mentor the next generation of entrepreneurs. His own journey serves as a powerful testament that success is not determined by one's background or academic credentials, but by the hunger, discipline, and focus to pursue one's dreams.

Crafting a Narrative of Inspiration

Through Inshorts, Iqubal has not only revolutionized news consumption among the youth but has also become an emblem of inspiration for budding entrepreneurs worldwide. His transformation from an IIT dropout to a celebrated CEO underscores the essence of innovation, risk-taking, and the unwavering pursuit of one's aspirations