Azhar Iqubal’s journey is a testament to how passion, courage, and a keen eye for opportunity can change the way millions live their lives. Born in a small town in Bihar, Azhar’s story is not just about building a successful startup, it’s about dreaming big, taking risks, and believing in the power of innovation to make everyday life simpler and better.
A Young Dreamer with a Bold Choice
Growing up in Kishanganj, Bihar, Azhar always had a hunger for knowledge and a curiosity about the world. When he got into IIT Delhi, one of the most prestigious institutes in India, many would have thought his future was set. But Azhar saw things differently. The traditional path wasn’t enough for him. He wanted to build something meaningful, something that could truly impact people’s lives. So, he made a difficult decision, he dropped out of IIT to chase his dream of entrepreneurship.
This decision, while daunting, showed his fearless spirit. Azhar’s leap of faith reminds us that sometimes the road less taken is the one that leads to the greatest adventures.
Reinventing How We Consume News
In 2013, alongside his friends and co-founders, Azhar launched Inshorts, a news app designed for today’s fast-paced world. The idea was simple but revolutionary: why not deliver news in bite-sized pieces that people can read in less than a minute? With endless scrolling and information overload becoming the norm, Inshorts gave users a refreshing way to stay informed without feeling overwhelmed.
Azhar’s vision tapped into a real need. Today, Inshorts reaches over 10 million people daily, helping them catch up with world events during a quick coffee break or commute. It’s more than just an app, it’s a companion for millions who value their time but still want to stay connected to what’s happening around them.
Growing Beyond the App: Leadership and New Dreams
After years of steering Inshorts as CEO, Azhar decided to take a step back and transition to the role of Chairman in early 2025. This allowed him to focus on new challenges while trusting his capable co-founder Deepit Purkayastha to carry forward the vision.
But Azhar’s story is far from over.
Fenado AI: Making Tech Accessible for Everyone
His latest venture, Fenado AI, reflects Azhar’s deep desire to empower others. Co-founded with a longtime colleague, Fenado AI is a no-code platform that allows anyone, no matter their technical skills, to build websites and apps easily. This means entrepreneurs, artists, and creators can bring their ideas to life without being held back by complex coding.
Fenado AI is already gaining traction globally, helping users from India to Europe and the US build digital products that matter to them. It’s Azhar’s way of giving back to the startup community and lowering the barriers for innovation.
Beyond Success: A Mentor and Inspiration
Azhar doesn’t just build companies; he builds people. As a judge on Shark Tank India, he invests in and mentors aspiring entrepreneurs, sharing the lessons he’s learned and encouraging others to dream bigger. His story, from a small town to the national spotlight, serves as a beacon for anyone who dares to believe in themselves.
Looking Ahead with Hope and Determination
Azhar Iqubal’s journey reminds us that success isn’t just about money or fame. It’s about solving real problems, making lives easier, and inspiring others along the way. With Fenado AI and his continued involvement in the startup ecosystem, Azhar is not just shaping technology, he’s shaping the future of how people create and connect.
In a world full of noise and complexity, Azhar’s work brings clarity and simplicity, proving that with courage and vision, one person truly can make a difference.
