Aksht Jain, founder of the AI startup Eklyai, recently sparked widespread discussion after sharing his experience of leaving a high-paying corporate job in Bengaluru to pursue entrepreneurship. One year after walking away from a ₹75 lakh per annum salary, Jain admits he is financially strained but remains convinced that the decision was the best he could have made.
The Viral Post That Started the Conversation
In a candid post on X, Jain wrote: “I left my 75LPA job in BLR 1 year ago to pursue entrepreneurship. Right now I am kinda broke, but I would still say that it was the best thing I could have done.” The post quickly gained traction, drawing reactions from users across the platform who shared their own experiences and perspectives on the trade-off between financial stability and personal fulfillment.
Why He Chose Freedom Over Salary
Jain explained that the corporate environment had become increasingly performative, with office politics and meetings feeling like a zero-sum game. In contrast, startup life offers constant learning, problem-solving, and a sense of purpose. He emphasized that every day now feels different, as he builds his company from the ground up. While uncertainty and pressure are ever-present, the excitement of creating something meaningful outweighs the financial risks.
Mixed Reactions from the Online Community
The post resonated with many users who shared their own journeys. One user, who quit a job a month ago, asked for tips on navigating the early phase. Another user, who never held a corporate job, shared that he runs three companies and an NGO while living in his hometown, expressing genuine happiness. Others called Jain's decision both scary and brave, noting that time is on his side.
A Broader Discussion on Work Culture
The conversation has since evolved into a larger debate about burnout, toxic workplace dynamics, and the growing preference among younger professionals for independence and fulfillment over high salaries and fancy titles. Jain's story serves as a testament to the idea that financial success is not the only measure of a worthwhile career.
