At 13, Ravitej discovered his innate passion for building websites – and it wasn’t long before he founded his own in the same year. Fast forward to decade and a couple of years later, he started-up with Pennyful.in, a cashback and discount coupons venture. Post the recent launch of its android app in February, this enterprising Bengalurean seems to be creating quite a buzz. In a candid chat, he tells us about his offbeat interests and what keeps him ticking.
Tracing his entrepreneurial streak back to mere inquisitiveness in his teenage years, Ravitej vividly reminisces, “While I believe I’m wired to think about technology, buying and selling, let me clear the air – I was never the geeky kid. I was always outdoorsy and into a lot of extracurricular activities. But when I got my first computer, I started to google ways to build websites, and that's how it started.” He goes on to add, “I think one's passion is what takes them places. I cracked my first sale when I was 18 and in college. It was an experimental stint, which fortunately worked well for me, and I learnt the knacks of the trade early. Ever since, I was clear about what I wanted to do and decided to start out with Pennyful, right after my graduation,” says the engineering graduate from R.V. College of Engineering.
Vouching by how all work and no play makes jack a dull boy, the intrepid traveller states, “ I love travelling and I try to explore an unknown locale with family as part of my unwinding plan every year. Also, I've been a cricket buff since my school days. So I try to stay up to date with sports as much as I can. I’m also very keen on adventure sports. The very thought of it gives me an Adrenalin rush!”
Despite being upbeat about the start-up culture in the city, he believes it’s a path not for the faint-hearted. “Being part of a start-up venture is always a great learning experience. Every day there is a new battle to fight and a new problem to solve. But a few experiences in life teach you as much; about the realities of everything around you, and about yourself and what you're truly capable of.”
As somebody who’s always looking forward to interact with budding entrepreneurs and youngsters, Ravitej says, “There are so many workshops, seminars and sessions to help people build something on their own today. And I’m totally in favour of this, because it really helps you network.”
