Founder ‘Kinda Broke’ After Leaving ₹75 LPA Bengaluru Job But Doesn’t Regret It
Bharatmorning.com – In the dynamic world of startups, the allure of entrepreneurial freedom often overshadows the immediate financial strain that comes with trading a stable corporate role for an uncertain path. A recent post on X by a Bengaluru-based founder has sparked conversations about the trade-offs involved in such a transition. The founder candidly shared his experience of stepping away from a ₹75 LPA job to pursue his vision of building an AI startup, revealing that his current financial situation is challenging but reaffirming his decision as a pivotal step in his career.
A Leap of Faith
Aksht Jain, the founder in question, outlined his journey in a concise yet reflective message. “I left my 75LPA job in BLR a year ago to chase entrepreneurship. Right now, I’m kinda broke, but I’d still call it the best move I’ve ever made,” he wrote. This admission highlights the financial vulnerability many entrepreneurs face during the early stages of their ventures. Despite the initial struggle, Jain emphasizes the intangible rewards that come with creative control and the thrill of innovation.
“There is immense satisfaction in work when you don’t have to deal with zero-sum office politics. And there is so much to learn every single day. Love it!”
Jain’s decision to embrace the unknown has resonated with others who have considered similar paths. A commenter noted the dual nature of his journey—both daunting and inspiring. “This is scary as well as courageous. You have time on your side. That’s the biggest advantage,” they remarked. Another user questioned the feasibility of such a move, particularly for those not in tech. “I’m not broke, but I’m torn between sticking with entrepreneurship and returning to work. What made you say this is the best thing? What did you like the most about being an entrepreneur?”
Jain’s response underscores the personal growth he’s experienced. “It’s the learning and the adventure all the way. Sure, there might be less money at first, but every day is new and interesting,” he explained. He also highlighted the shift in his professional mindset, stating, “In corporate roles, I sometimes feel the work and teams become performative. Here, everything feels more authentic.”
Building from Scratch
A third commenter echoed Jain’s perspective, adding a note about the lifestyle changes. “Good for you, man!! Although being an Indian solopreneur—moving back with your parents, living for free, and building—is the best path forward until the money starts flowing in,” they said. Jain agreed, noting, “For sure. Right now, I’m living with friends in Bengaluru to stay connected and discuss ideas daily.”
His journey is emblematic of a growing trend where young professionals are prioritizing passion over paycheck. While the financial risks are real, the emotional and intellectual fulfillment of entrepreneurship appears to be a compelling trade-off for many. Jain’s startup, Ekly.ai, is an AI-powered video studio that enables brands and agencies to generate, customize, and deliver video ads based on a single text prompt. This innovative approach reflects the founder’s belief in the transformative potential of artificial intelligence.
Despite the initial challenges, Jain remains optimistic. He mentioned that tools like Emergent, Lovable, and Replit have made it easier for non-tech professionals to create functional prototypes. “Yes, I would say that’s possible now. Many people use these platforms to build something tangible,” he stated. However, he also acknowledged that complete autonomy for AI coding agents still requires human guidance, ensuring the technology aligns with strategic goals.
Education and Career Path
Jain’s background provides insight into the foundation of his entrepreneurial spirit. According to his LinkedIn profile, he completed his schooling at Holy Family Convent School before earning a B.Tech degree from Delhi College of Engineering. His career began as an intern, gradually leading him to a role as a software developer. This progression set the stage for his eventual leap into entrepreneurship, driven by a desire to innovate beyond the confines of traditional corporate structures.
The transition from a structured corporate environment to the startup world is often marked by a mix of excitement and anxiety. Jain’s experience mirrors that of many who have made the switch, balancing the risks of financial instability with the rewards of creative freedom. His current focus on building Ekly.ai reflects a commitment to leveraging technology for real-world applications, even in the face of uncertainty.
Industry Insights and Future Prospects
As the startup ecosystem in Bengaluru continues to evolve, stories like Jain’s offer a glimpse into the realities of modern entrepreneurship. The founder’s candid admission about his financial situation has sparked discussions about the importance of resilience in the early stages of a venture. While the initial months may be lean, the long-term vision often drives individuals to persevere.
Jain’s message also resonates with those exploring alternative career paths. The idea that even non-tech professionals can harness AI tools to create viable products is a significant shift in the landscape of innovation. This democratization of technology allows for greater experimentation, reducing the barriers to entry for aspiring entrepreneurs.
His perspective aligns with broader trends in the workforce, where the pursuit of meaningful work is increasingly valued over conventional stability. As industries adapt to digital transformation, the lines between corporate roles and startup ventures are blurring. Jain’s journey serves as a testament to the courage required to embrace this change and the potential rewards that follow.
Looking ahead, Jain remains focused on mastering AI to future-proof his storytelling and business strategies. His ability to navigate both human and silicon networks highlights the evolving skills needed in today’s professional world. Whether the financial challenges persist or the startup gains traction, his experience underscores the transformative power of taking calculated risks.
About the Author
Trisha Sengupta is a Chief Content Producer at Hindustan Times, with over six years of experience in the digital newsroom. Known for her knack of translating digital trends into compelling narratives, she bridges the gap between viral moments and traditional journalism. Her work often explores the intersection of technology, finance, and human emotion, covering topics like personal finance struggles and real estate dynamics in cities such as Gurgaon, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.
Trisha also delves into the unique challenges of the NRI experience, profiling global figures like Elon Musk, Mukesh Ambani, Nikhil Kamath, the Dubai crown prince, and MrBeast. From reporting on Amazon or Meta layoffs to tracking the rise of AI-driven platforms such as Grok and xAI, she maintains a grounded and empathetic approach to storytelling. When not analyzing digital trends, Trisha enjoys immersing herself in books, exploring historical sites, or traveling alone—activities that fuel her curiosity and creativity.
