Srikanth Bolla is a visionary entrepreneur, the CEO, co-founder, and chairman of Bollant Industries Pvt Ltd. His journey from a challenging childhood to becoming one of India’s most successful industrialists is nothing short of inspiring. Born into a financially struggling family with limited resources, Srikanth faced multiple obstacles but never let his visual impairment hold him back.
Now, Srikanth Bolla is making headlines again as he joins Shark Tank India Season 4 as a judge. His journey is so remarkable that Bollywood has also recognized his story, with actor Rajkummar Rao portraying his role in the 2024 biographical film “Srikanth”. Let’s dive deep into the life, struggles, and achievements of this extraordinary businessman.
Srikanth Bolla’s Early Life and Struggles
Born on July 7, 1991, in Seetharamapuram, Andhra Pradesh, Srikanth hails from a humble Telugu farming family. His parents were farmers who relied entirely on agriculture for their livelihood. Growing up in a rural village with no electricity and limited access to education, his early life was full of hardships. Despite his talent and determination, Srikanth faced discrimination due to his blindness. When he wanted to study science in high school, he was denied admission due to his disability. However, Srikanth was determined to change his fate. He fought a legal battle and won, becoming Andhra Pradesh’s first visually impaired student to study science. His hard work paid off when he topped his 12th-grade board exams with 98% marks.
Education and Road to MIT
Srikanth aspired to become an engineer, but his dream of studying at India’s top engineering colleges (IITs and NITs) was shattered as they refused to admit visually impaired students in engineering programs. Instead of giving up, Srikanth applied abroad and secured admission to the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA – becoming the first visually impaired student from India to study there. He pursued Management Science at MIT Sloan School of Management, proving that no challenge is too big for those who dare to dream.
Srikanth Bolla’s Entrepreneurial Journey – The Rise of Bollant Industries
In 2012, after completing his education, Srikanth returned to India with a mission to create employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Along with co-founder Ravi Mantha, he established Bollant Industries Pvt Ltd, a company that manufactures eco-friendly packaging and products. The company primarily employs visually impaired and disabled individuals, giving them financial independence and dignity. Today, Bollant Industries has over 500 employees and an annual turnover of $150 million. His success has made him a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those facing disabilities and societal challenges.
Srikanth Bolla’s Achievements in Sports
Apart from academics and business, Srikanth is also an accomplished sportsman. He has excelled in:
- Blind Cricket (National Level)
- International Chess
- Baseball
- Swimming
His multifaceted personality and achievements continue to break stereotypes about disability.
Personal Life – Srikanth Bolla’s Love Story and Family
Srikanth’s life is not just about struggles and achievements but also about love and perseverance. In 2022, he married Veera Swathi, his long-time partner of 10 years. The couple also has a daughter. His personal journey adds another layer of inspiration, showing that success is not limited to professional achievements but also about finding love and happiness despite challenges.
Srikanth Bolla Biopic – “Srikanth” (2024) Featuring Rajkummar Rao
Srikanth Bolla’s inspiring life story has been adapted into a Bollywood film titled “Srikanth” (2024), starring Rajkummar Rao in the lead role. The movie showcases:
- Srikanth’s childhood struggles
- His fight for education
- His journey to MIT
- The creation of Bollant Industries
- His impact on India’s business world
The film aims to spread awareness about inclusivity and the power of determination, further cementing Srikanth’s legacy as a true trailblazer.
Srikanth Bolla Joins Shark Tank India 4 – A New Chapter
Adding another milestone to his journey, Srikanth Bolla has been selected as a judge on Shark Tank India Season 4. As a successful entrepreneur, he will bring his unique perspective, guiding and investing in startups that have the potential to create a lasting impact. His presence on the show is a game-changer, inspiring millions of aspiring business owners.
The Legacy of Srikanth Bolla
Srikanth Bolla’s life is proof that disabilities do not define a person’s abilities. From overcoming discrimination to leading a multi-million-dollar company, his story is a testament to hard work, resilience, and unwavering belief in oneself. As an entrepreneur, motivational figure, and now a Shark Tank India judge, he continues to inspire countless individuals to dream big and never give up.
