Speaker

Capt. GR Gopinath

Entrepreneur

Capt. G.R. Gopinath is an exemplary figure in Indian aviation, renowned as the founder of Air Deccan, India’s first low-cost airline. Endorsed by former President APJ Abdul Kalam as the father of India’s affordable air travel, his initiative changed the aviation landscape, enabling millions to fly.

His achievements include “Best Low Fare Airline Award” (2006) and “Best Domestic No Frills Carrier” (2006, 2007). Beyond aviation, Capt. Gopinath is a successful farmer and recipient of the “Rolex International Award for Enterprise” (1996) for his innovative farming techniques. He has been honoured with the “Rajyotsava Award” (2005), “Legion of Honour” (2006), and the “Sir M Visvesvaraya Memorial Award” (2006). His best-selling autobiography, ‘Simply Fly’, is a testament to his inspiring journey.

Sessions

Day 1 - 6th October, Friday @ The Niligir Library

04:15 PM - 05:15 PM

Start-ups & Entrepreneurship

What’s the secret sauce to success?

Ramesh Venkateswaran goes deep in discussion with a panel of eminent entrepreneurs, including Capt. G.R. Gopinath, the pioneer of low-cost aviation in India & Dr. Jairam Varadaraj, who has built his industrial company to global scale to learn some lessons.