Upasana Taku: A Trailblazing Entrepreneur’s Journey from Silicon Valley to Fintech Heights
In the ever-evolving landscape of successful entrepreneurs, Upasana Taku’s journey stands out as a testament to grit, determination, and the willingness to take risks. In an era dominated by alma maters like IIT and IIM, Upasana’s trajectory from Punjab Technical University to Stanford University and eventually to the pinnacle of the fintech industry is a saga worth applauding.
As the CEO and Board Chairperson of MobiKwik, a company now valued at a staggering ₹8,000 crore, Upasana’s story is one of collaborative success with her husband, Bipin Preet Singh. Their entrepreneurial journey, which began in 2009, has not only defied conventional norms but has also become an inspiration for countless aspiring women entrepreneurs.
What sets Upasana apart is her extensive 17-year experience in the field, including stints at American payments giant PayPal and HSBC. Her decision to return to India in 2008, despite family reservations, showcases her unwavering belief in the vast opportunities and challenges that India presents for business.
In a recent interview with Forbes, Upasana emphasized the abundance of opportunities amidst challenges in India. Her foresight and conviction that India was the ideal ground for her business endeavors have proven to be the driving force behind MobiKwik’s remarkable success.
The narrative takes an interesting turn with Upasana’s marriage to Bipin Preet Singh in 2011, a union that not only marked a personal milestone but also laid the foundation for their entrepreneurial partnership. Bipin, the co-founder of MobiKwik, harbored the concept for the platform but hesitated due to familial responsibilities. It was Upasana who provided the support and encouragement, enabling him to leave his job and venture into the uncertain world of startups.
MobiKwik, under Upasana’s leadership, has set ambitious goals for the current fiscal year. The company aims to double revenues and achieve full-year profitability by the third quarter of 2022–2023. In an industry where success is often measured by valuations, MobiKwik’s worth of ₹8,000 crore speaks volumes about its impact and relevance in the fintech sector.
Upasana Taku’s journey is more than just a success story; it’s a beacon for those who dare to dream beyond traditional paths. From her educational pursuits in India and the United States to her strategic decision to return to India, Upasana exemplifies the fusion of global knowledge and local wisdom.
As the fintech industry witnesses dynamic shifts, Upasana Taku and MobiKwik stand at the forefront, embodying the spirit of innovation, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of success. Upasana’s story is a New York Times-worthy narrative of triumph over challenges, of breaking barriers, and ultimately, of making an indelible mark in the world of entrepreneurship.
