Startup Originals Team
India’s startup ecosystem has seen many remarkable stories, but few are as powerful as that of Shravan Kumar Vishwakarma, the founder of Shankh Air. Once earning his livelihood as a tempo driver in Uttar Pradesh, Shravan has now stepped into one of the most complex and capital-intensive industries in the country, aviation. His journey is a testament to grit, patience, and the belief that no beginning is too small.
Humble Beginnings in Kanpur
Shravan Kumar Vishwakarma grew up in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, in a life shaped by daily struggle. For several years, he worked as a tempo driver and loader, taking on physically demanding work just to support himself. Opportunities were limited, and dreams of building something big often felt distant. Yet, even during these difficult years, Shravan carried an unshakable ambition to rise beyond his circumstances.
The First Entrepreneurial Step
The turning point came in 2014, when Shravan took his first step into entrepreneurship by starting a small cement trading business. What began modestly soon expanded as he reinvested earnings and built trust in the market. Over time, he diversified into TMT steel, mining, and transport. This steady growth laid the foundation for a larger business ecosystem that would later support a far more ambitious dream.
Building a Logistics Backbone
Through consistent effort and smart expansion, Shravan built a logistics empire with a fleet of over 400 trucks. This transport network became the financial backbone of his ventures, providing stability, scale, and operational experience. More importantly, it gave him the confidence to think beyond conventional boundaries and explore industries that few first-generation entrepreneurs dare to enter.
Entering the Aviation Dream
Around four years ago, Shravan set his sights on aviation, one of India’s toughest and most regulated sectors. Starting from scratch, he immersed himself in understanding airline regulations, compliance requirements, and operational complexities. After years of preparation and persistence, Shankh Air finally received regulatory clearances. The airline is now set to begin operations in early 2026 with an initial fleet of three Airbus aircraft, connecting cities like Lucknow with Delhi and Mumbai.
A Vision Rooted in Accessibility
Shravan’s vision for Shankh Air is not driven by luxury or prestige. Instead, he wants to make air travel affordable and accessible for middle-class and first-time flyers. He sees flying as just another mode of transport for common people, not a privilege for a few. With plans to expand across India and launch international routes by 2028–29, Shankh Air aims to grow steadily while staying true to this mission.
A Startup Story That Redefines Possibility
From driving a tempo to building an airline, Shravan Kumar Vishwakarma’s journey reflects the true spirit of entrepreneurship. His story proves that persistence, learning, and long-term vision can change destinies, and that even the skies are not the limit for those who dare to dream and work relentlessly.
