Kanika Tekriwal Joins Shark Tank India as Newest Shark, Reveals Inspiring Cancer Battle
Aviation entrepreneur Kanika Tekriwal has made headlines as the newest Shark to join the esteemed panel on Shark Tank India season 5. In a powerful recent episode, Tekriwal opened up about her personal journey, including battling cancer at the young age of 22 and overcoming significant challenges to build her aviation empire.
Diagnosis and Determination: Facing Hodgkin Lymphoma
Kanika Tekriwal revealed she was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. She described this period as the toughest phase of her life, yet one that ultimately made her resilient enough to face any obstacle. "Cancer was a big turning point for me," she shared, "and I always say whatever I am today is because of cancer. It made me believe that I am invincible."
She recounted how even some relatives discouraged her recovery, telling her mother there was no point in supporting her treatment. This adversity only strengthened her resolve to prove her critics wrong.
From Underestimation to Aviation Innovation
The episode began with Kanika sharing how she was initially underestimated in her professional journey. Working for a company constructing a building with a helipad, she identified a critical flaw: "I told them that a helicopter can never land on this and nobody took me seriously," she recalled. The CFO dismissed her ambitions, suggesting she start a boutique instead.
This dismissal became a turning point. "I think that's what turned me around and I packed my bags, and I moved to London," she explained. Her experience was further compounded by working in a company with only white employees, where a colleague remarked, "Kanika, India and aviation won't work." Tekriwal responded with determination: "He has challenged the wrong person. I needed to teach him a lesson."
Entrepreneurial Triumph Against All Odds
Despite planning to convince her parents to let her work instead of getting married, Kanika faced another setback upon returning home: her cancer diagnosis the very next day. However, she channeled this challenge into motivation. "I remember walking down the stairs and I told them in five years I'll be on the cover of Forbes," she declared.
True to her word, she moved to Delhi and transformed the aviation industry. "Within two years without owning even one plane, we became the largest jet fleet in the country. I transformed the entire industry," she proudly stated. Her success story highlights how constant provocation from others fueled her fighting spirit.
Giving Back Through Shark Tank India
Kanika ended her conversation by emphasizing her desire to give back. "I believe Shark Tank gives a lifeline to people without a voice," she said. "I feel that since the world has given me so much. I am where I am because of people—it's my time to give back." Her journey from cancer survivor to successful entrepreneur and now a Shark on one of India's most popular business shows serves as an inspiration to aspiring business leaders nationwide.
