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Tag: Alakh Pandey

  • Physics Wallah: How a YouTube Channel Turned into a Unicorn EdTech Startup

    Technological growth and affordable equipment have devised a new scheme of learning in this modern world. They have refreshed our education system and made learning easy, simple, and interesting. This change in the system seems so quick that, shortly, students might no longer carry books and will have the option to learn from anywhere, anytime.

    The shift toward digital education has boosted the process of upgrading learning methods. Following this shift, many EdTech startups have been started in the past couple of years. With perfect execution and quality content, these startups have a bright and secure future.

    Physics Wallah (PW) is one of the many startups that flourished during this transition. The passion for teaching has pushed the founder to start a YouTube channel that has today become the 101st Unicorn of India. The story of Physics Wallah and its founder, Alakh Pandey, is very inspiring. The valuation of Physics Wallah as of December 2024 is $2.8 billion.

    The below article portrays Physics Wallah’s success story, its founders, its history, its journey to becoming one of the top edtech startups in India, its growth, funding, business model, IPO, revenue, challenges, and how it turned into a unicorn despite the challenges.

    Physics Wallah Highlights

    Company Name Physics Wallah
    Headquarters Noida, Uttar Pradesh
    Industry EdTech
    Founders Alakh Pandey and Prateek Maheshwari
    Founded 2016
    Valuation $2.8 billion (December 2024)
    Website pw.live

    Physics Wallah – About
    Physics Wallah – Industry
    Physics Wallah – Founders and Team
    Physics Wallah – Startup Story
    Physics Wallah – Mission and Vision
    Physics Wallah – Name and Logo
    Physics Wallah – Business and Revenue Model
    Physics Wallah – Funding and Investors
    Physics Wallah – Shareholding
    Physics Wallah – IPO
    Physics Wallah – Growth
    Physics Wallah – Acquisition
    Physics Wallah – Investment
    Physics Wallah – Products and Features
    Physics Wallah – Layoff
    Physics Wallah – Challenges Faced
    Physics Wallah – Future Plans

    Physics Wallah – About

    Physics Wallah is an EdTech startup founded in 2014 by Alakh Pandey. It is an e-learning platform that offers quality learning experiences at an affordable cost. This startup provides lectures and solutions on various subjects for students between classes 6 and 12, including JEE, NEET, and various other entrance exams. Physics Wallah presents both live and scheduled lectures, along with doubt-solving sessions and structured materials, and helps students evaluate themselves through tests.

    Started as a YouTube channel, Physics Wallah, as of today, has mentored over 6 million students and has over 13,700 video lectures on its platform. Offering both free and paid batches, Physics Wallah has gained the reputation of lakhs of students through experienced and quality coaching.

    Physics Wallah – Industry

    The Physics Wallah belongs to the EdTech industry. The EdTech industry’s growth in India can be narrowed down to the past decade. Their growth has been too rapid in recent years. Statistics reveal that between 2014 and 2019, around 4,450 EdTech startups have sprouted in the country. The current size of the EdTech market was valued at $5.13 billion in 2023. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of more than 19% during 2023-2028.

    The funding and other investments in these startups have increased 32 times in the past decade. The EdTech industry will replace offline learning in the long run. But experts and VCs say that, for a decade or at least two, the omnichannel way of learning (both online and offline) will hold the crown.

    Physics Wallah – Founders and Team

    Alakh Pandey and Prateek Maheshwari are the founders of Physics Wallah.

    Alakh Pandey

    Alakh Pandey - Physics Wallah Founder and CEO
    Alakh Pandey – Physics Wallah Founder and CEO

    Alakh Pandey is the founder and CEO of Physics Wallah. He was born on October 2, 1991, in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Pandey has always had a love for teaching since his school days. He wanted to be an IITian but couldn’t clear his entrance exam. Pandey was also a college dropout and started his career as a physics teacher at a coaching institute. He wanted to give the best learning experience to students at an affordable cost.

    Alakh Pandey: Physics Wallah | Biography
    Dive into the inspiring biography of Alakh Pandey, the visionary educator behind Physics Wallah.
    StartupTalkyKanimozhi Sivakumar

    Prateek Maheshwari

    Prateek Maheshwari - Physics Wallah Co-Founder
    Prateek Maheshwari – Physics Wallah Co-Founder

    Prateek Maheshwari is the co-founder of Physics Wallah. He graduated with a bachelor’s in technology from IIT Varanasi. Before joining hands with Alakh Pandey for PW, Prateek Maheshwari was a founder at NightPanda, Moon2Noon, PenPencil,, and Edu4All. His experience as a founder proved to be a great pillar of support for Physics Wallah.

    Physics Wallah – Startup Story

    After dropping out of college, Alakh Pandey’s love for teaching pulled him toward a coaching institute in Allahabad. There, he groomed himself as a teacher. His style of teaching received a huge reception, and the physics he taught was loved by everyone. So, with the idea of reaching more students, Alakh Pandey started a YouTube channel named ‘Physics Wallah’ in 2016. This is where the seed for PW was sown and the startup started to germinate.

    How to Start an EdTech Company in 2022? (Step by Step Guide)
    The edtech industry in India is growing at a really fast pace. If you are someone planning to start your own edtech company. Here’s a guide.
    StartupTalkyArbaz Sayed

    Physics Wallah – Mission and Vision

    Physics Wallah’s vision is to provide “education for all, regardless of their socio-economic status.” The company wants to provide affordable education for all students. It believes that education has the power to change anything and everything. This is the motto with which Physics Wallah is marching forward.

    Physics Wallah Logo
    Physics Wallah Logo

    Alakh Pandey’s popular physics classes were the reason for the name ‘Physics Wallah’. He named his YouTube channel after the said reason in 2016. Later, ‘Physics Wallah’ became his brand identity and stayed as the name of the startup.

    Physics Wallah – Business and Revenue Model

    Physics Wallah’s business is to offer lectures and train students in various classes, either online, offline, or both. It also provides coaching for national-level entrance exams for students.

    Physics Wallah makes revenue from top-rated courses and subscriptions from university students who have subscribed to individualized learning experiences.

    YouTube Ads

    Physics Wallah makes revenue from YouTube ads.

    Through the use of advertisements on its platform, Physics Wallah makes money.

    Products Sales

    To make extra money and advertise their business among students, Physics Wallah promotes branded items like T-shirts, sweatshirts, and accessories.

    Physics Wallah Business Model | How Physics Wallah Makes Money
    Discover how Physics Wallah’s business model operates and learn about the various revenue streams that enable this EdTech platform to generate income and sustain its operations.
    StartupTalkyNitin Konde

    Physics Wallah – Funding and Investors

    Established in 2014, Physics Wallah was bootstrapped until 2022 after its inception as a YouTube channel. Alakh Pandey used his revenue from YouTube to register the company and develop the PW app in 2020.

    Physics Wallah (PW) secured $210 million in a Series B funding round on 20 September 2024, led by Hornbill Capital, along with Lightspeed Venture Partners, GSV, and WestBridge. This new investment increased PW’s post-money valuation to $2.8 billion, marking a 2.5X surge from its previous $1.1 billion valuation when it raised $100 million in its Series A round.

    The startup went through Series A funding on June 7, 2022, and received $100 million from Westbridge Capital and GSV Ventures. This maiden funding round made Physics Wallah a unicorn, and its valuation reached $1.1 billion post-funding.

    Date Stage Amount Investors
    September 2024 Series B $210 million Hornbill Capital, Lightspeed Venture Partners, Westbridge Capital and GSV Ventures
    June 2022 Series A $100 million Westbridge Capital and GSV Ventures

    Physics Wallah – Shareholding

    Here is Physics Wallah’s shareholding pattern as of Dec 2024, sourced from Tracxn:

    Name Pre Round Holding % Post Round Holding % Increase in Share Capital Post-Round Cumulative Investment Shares Bought/Allocated Post-Round Total #Shares
    Alakh Pandey 38.7% 38.6% – – – 30,000,000
    Prateek Maheshwari 38.7% 38.6% – – – 30,000,000
    WestBridge Capital 6.5% 6.5% – 601.6Cr – 5,015,785
    Hornbill Capital 2.9% 2.9% – 671.4Cr – 2,213,836
    GSV Ventures 2.1% 2.1% – 194.4Cr – 1,666,667
    Lightspeed Venture Partners 1.8% 1.8% – 419.7Cr – 1,383,648
    Setu Aif Trust 0.7% 0.7% – 171.5Cr – 565,347
    Other People 0.2% 0.3% 30.7Cr – 101,200 247,206
    Vivek Gaur – < 0.1% 15Cr – 49,587 49,587
    Manish Sharma – < 0.1% 13.3Cr – 43,794 43,794
    Anurag Pareek – < 0.1% 2.4Cr – 7,819 7,819
    Sumit Rewri 0.1% 0.1% – – – 98,331
    Gopal Lal Sharma < 0.1% < 0.1% – – – 47,675
    ESOP Pool 8.4% 8.4% – 41.7L – 6,520,661
    Total 100.0% 100.0% 30.7Cr 2,058.9Cr 101,200 77,613,150

    Physics Wallah – IPO

    Physics Wallah, the edtech unicorn founded by Alakh Pandey, is preparing for its Initial Public Offering (IPO) in 2025. The company has filed its Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), aiming to raise approximately INR 3,820 crore (around $460 million USD). This amount includes a fresh issue of equity shares worth INR 3,100 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) of INR 720 crore by the company’s co-founders.

    To manage the IPO process, Physics Wallah has shortlisted four investment banks: Axis Capital, Kotak Mahindra Capital, Goldman Sachs, and JP Morgan. The company plans to utilize the funds raised for expanding its offline and hybrid centers, investing in subsidiaries like Xylem and Utkarsh, enhancing its technology infrastructure, and covering marketing expenses.

    Physics Wallah – Growth

    Despite a slow start in the first year, Pandey quit his job at the coaching center in 2017 to turn into a full-time YouTuber. The channel started slowly picking up,, and by 2019, it had 2 million subscribers. When the country entered lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for Physics Wallah grew higher and higher.

    As a result, Alakh Pandey decided to expand his platform and started an application for online lectures. The startup also provides both offline and online classes for students under the name PW Pathshala. Today, more than 60 lakh students have learned from Physics Wallah. This startup has 16 PW Pathshala centers and 1,500 staff, of which 300 are teachers. It aims at providing the best learning experience for students.

    Physics Wallah has forayed into the offline space, according to reports dated June 20, 2022, when it launched its first offline learning center called PW Vidyapeeth in Kota, Rajasthan.

    Kota is famous for housing coaching centers for the preparation of medical and engineering students. PhysicsWallah’s offline center is also designed in much the same way and will be enrolling 11th and 12th-grade students who are planning to prepare for their JEE and NEET exams. The unicorn ed-tech startup revealed that the student-teacher ratio of each class will be 125:1.

    Physics Wallah now has 10 million plus students, 31300 plus video lectures with 2500 plus mock tests, and 8 lakh plus questions.

    PW SOS School of Startups
    PW SOS School of Startups

    Physics Wallah launched the School of Startups, setting INR 100 crore ($11.9 million) fund to back the startups on 22 August 2024. To help budding entrepreneurs turn their ideas into profitable businesses, the initiative offers a wide range of resources, including affordable programs, hands-on training, strategic mentoring, and access to funding.

    Aarambh, Prarambh, and Hopes Alive are the three separate programs that PW SOS provides, and they are all designed to help entrepreneurs at different points in their journeys.

    Physics Wallah Financials

    In FY25, Physics Wallah reported an operating revenue of INR 2,887 crore with total expenses of INR 3,265 crore, resulting in a loss of INR 243 crore. In comparison, FY24 saw revenue of INR 1,941 crore against expenses of INR 3,279 crore, leading to a loss of INR 1,131 crore.

    Despite the losses, the company has shown significant revenue growth year-on-year, reflecting strong demand for its edtech services. The improved financial performance ahead of its IPO highlights investor confidence in Physics Wallah’s expansion and future potential.

    Physics Wallah Financials FY25 FY24
    Operating Revenue INR 2,887 crore INR 1,941 crore
    Total Expenses INR 3,265 crore INR 3,279 crore
    Profit/Loss Loss of INR 243 crore Loss of INR 1,131 crore
    Physics Wallah FInancials

    Key Highlights:

    • Revenue Growth: Operating revenue surged by 49% year-on-year, driven by strong performance in both online and offline coaching segments.
    • Expense Management: Total expenses remained relatively flat, increasing by just 0.4%, despite significant investments in expanding offline centers and faculty.
    • Profitability Improvement: Losses narrowed by 78%, from INR 1,131 crore in FY24 to INR 243 crore in FY25, reflecting improved operational efficiency and scale.
    • Employee Costs: The company spent INR 1,426 crore on salaries, accounting for approximately 44% of total expenses, supporting a workforce of over 15,000 employees.
    • Offline Expansion: The average revenue per offline user increased to INR 40,405, indicating the success of its hybrid education model.

    Physics Wallah – Products and Features

    The company has launched various courses to date. The launch of the Physics Wallah Fund on 20 September 2023, was in partnership with a peer-to-peer lending platform, Rang De.

    Some of the courses launched are:

    Courses About
    Institute of Innovation (PW IOI) It is a four-year residential computer science and artificial intelligence curriculum launched on July, 31 2023
    Offline centre PWOnlyIAS PW OnlyIAS is for preparing for the UPSC exam and was launched on May 9, 2023
    Launches Innovative One-Stop NEET PG/NExT Learning Solution It’s National Eligibility Cumulative Entrance Test–Postgraduate (NEET PG/NExT) preparation with the release of the MedEd app and website. The launch date was in April, 2023.
    MPSC preparation courses It helps with the preparation of MPSC Maharashtra Public Service Commission entrance exam and was launched in February, 2023.
    Launches 50 Vidyapeeth Centers It is an offline classroom with technology integration that provides comprehensive instruction at a low cost with the best instructors in India and was launched on May, 1, 2023
    Launch “Physics Wallah Fund” in partnership with Rang de The goal of this partnership launch on September, 20,2023 is to address the need for easily accessible and reasonably priced student loans so that students can obtain high-quality, industry-relevant education.
    Integrated programme for JEE, NEET preparation This launch is to provide students of tier 3 and tier 4 cities in India for JEE, NEET examination coaching.

    Physics Wallah – Acquisition

    Physics Wallah’s latest acquisition is Xylem Learning (a test-taking aid that helps you get ready for the NEET UG medical entrance exam) on June 19, 2023.

    Company Name Date Price
    Xylem Learning Jun 19, 2023 $60.11 million
    Knowledge Planet Mar 20, 2023 –
    iNeuron.ai Jan 18, 2023 $30.057 million
    PrepOnline Oct 13, 2022 –
    Altis Vortex Oct 13, 2022 –
    FreeCo Aug 17, 2022 –

    Physics Wallah – Investment

    Physics Wallah invested in one company, iNeuron.ai (a well-known training center for data science, machine learning, and deep learning), on December 22, 2022, with a secondary market funding round for iNeuron.ai.

    Physics Wallah Marketing Strategy: Key Approaches Behind Their Success
    Discover how Physics Wallah grew from tutoring to a top edtech giant using innovative marketing and strategic growth techniques. Learn more about its marketing mix, strategies, campaigns, and more.
    StartupTalkyNicole Braganza

    Physics Wallah – Layoff

    On November 19, 2023, PhysicsWallah (PW) announced the first round of layoffs at the edtech startup, terminating between 120 and 150 workers.

    Workers from operations, content, and other departments were invited to sporadic meetings without providing a clear explanation. The number of workers affected may even be higher, according to a source who asked to remain anonymous.

    Physics Wallah – Challenges Faced

    During the launch of the Physics Wallah app in May 2020, the app crashed due to heavy traffic. The sudden hit of more than 2 lakh students into the app created this crash. As the web traffic continued, it took weeks for the technical glitch to be fixed. Alakh Pandey was afraid that the students might feel cheated as they had paid for the classes. But the reputation he had earned over the years made the students trust him and come back once everything was fixed.

    The next challenge arose in 2021 when rivals started throwing stones at the company. Unacademy offered Rs 75 crore to Alakh Pandey, which he immediately refused. Then the rivals started poaching the PW staff, and a lot of them left the company within a short period. Then, with the support of students and his never-give-up attitude, Pandey came back strong and took the company to a Unicorn status following Byju’s, Unacademy, Vedantu and a few more in the EdTech industry.

    Physics Wallah – Future Plans

    Physics Wallah plans to open more offline centers and introduce more courses while also enhancing its online platform. Also, the company plans to expand its content to nine vernacular Indian languages like Gujarati, Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and a few more. This would expand the student base of Physics Wallah, which could be estimated at around 250 million by 2025.

    Physics Wallah is set to focus on inorganic expansion by entering the K-12 formal education sector, improving its content and publication services, and exploring mergers with community-driven educational platforms across various categories.

    FAQs

    What is Physics Wallah?

    Physics Wallah is an e-learning platform that offers quality lectures and learning experiences for students at an affordable cost.

    How did Physics Wallah start?

    Physics Wallah started in 2016 when Alakh Pandey began teaching physics on YouTube, offering affordable online classes. It later grew into a full edtech platform with courses, apps, and offline centers.

    Physics Wallah started in which year?

    Physics Wallah was founded in 2014.

    Who are the founders of Physics Wallah?

    Alakh Pandey and Prateek Maheshwari are the founders of Physics Wallah.

    What is the valuation of the Physics Wallah?

    PhysicsWallah valuation is $2.8 billion as of September 2024.

    Who are the investors in Physics Wallah?

    Hornbill Capital, Westbridge Capital, and GSV Ventures are the two investors in the company.

    How Physics Wallah become unicorn?

    Physics Wallah became a unicorn in June 2022 after raising $100 million in its first funding round led by WestBridge Capital and GSV Ventures, valuing it at $1.1 billion.

  • Top 10 Richest Persons in Uttar Pradesh: Net Worth and Businesses

    When people discuss India’s wealthy people, the spotlight falls on metro cities such as Mumbai or Delhi. However, what is often overlooked is that Uttar Pradesh has quietly been producing its own set of billionaires and influential business leaders. Furthermore, some of them built their fortunes through tech and software, while others turned everyday products like biscuits, detergents, and consumer goods into household names.

    UP’s wealthy include both tech entrepreneurs and traditional industrialists. Together, they have massively boosted the state’s economy. Their success proves you don’t need to be in a major city. Instead, success comes from determination and taking smart risks, even in less expected places.

    This blog looks at the top 10 Richest People in Uttar Pradesh in 2025. The list is based on verified financial reports, company performances, and trusted media sources. These individuals are much more than numbers on a rich list. They are the ultimate job creators, innovators, and, in many cases, individuals who started small before building their businesses into empires.

    Industrialists and Innovators: Top Richest Business Tycoons from Uttar Pradesh

    Industrialists and Innovators: Top Richest Business Tycoons from Uttar Pradesh

    Uttar Pradesh is known for its history and politics, but it’s also home to many of India’s richest businesspeople. The wealthiest person here shows that success comes from vision and hard work. This list includes people from different industries like FMCG, real estate, and education, showing how many ways there are to succeed in UP’s business world.

    Muralidhar Gyanchandani – INR 14,000 Crore

    Company RSPL Group (Ghadi Detergent)
    City Kanpur
    Industry FMCG
    Background Born into a Sindhi family in Kanpur
    Family Support Runs the business with his brother, Bimal
    Lifestyle Owns luxury SUVs and prime properties but prefers a simple life
    Main Income Sale of Ghadi Detergent and other RSPL products
    Contribution Created thousands of jobs in Uttar Pradesh and made Ghadi a household name

    Muralidhar Gyanchandani stands as the richest person in Uttar Pradesh today. His journey showcases how persistence, family values, and strategic business moves can turn a regional brand into a national success story.

    Bimal Gyanchandani – INR 9,000 Crore

    Company RSPL Group (Ghadi Detergent)
    City Kanpur
    Industry Consumer Goods
    Background Brother and business partner of Muralidhar Gyanchandani
    Lifestyle Low-key personality, supports community initiatives
    Main Income Sale of detergents and FMCG products
    Contribution Played a crucial role in making Ghadi a leading Indian brand

    Bimal Gyanchandani’s focus on teamwork and innovation helped elevate Ghadi to national prominence. Alongside his brother, he has strengthened UP’s FMCG sector. His quiet dedication shows that humility and vision can go hand in hand with wealth.

    Vijay Shekhar Sharma – INR 8,000 Crore

    Company Paytm
    City Aligarh
    Industry Fintech
    Background Son of a school teacher, grew up in Aligarh
    Family Support Encouraged by his father
    Main Income Digital payments, banking, and fintech services
    Contribution Revolutionized digital payments in India, enabling millions to go cashless
    Vijay Shekhar Sharma - Top Richest Persons in Uttar Pradesh
    Vijay Shekhar Sharma – Top Richest Persons in Uttar Pradesh

    Vijay Shekhar Sharma is a modern-day success story, turning a small idea into India’s fintech giant. His journey from Aligarh to leading Paytm inspires young entrepreneurs nationwide. He continues to innovate and expand digital financial services across India.

    Dinesh Chandra Agarwal – INR 5,400 Crore

    Company IndiaMART
    City Noida
    Industry B2B E-commerce
    Background IT professional turned entrepreneur
    Family Support Built a company with family involvement
    Lifestyle Owns commercial properties and luxury vehicles
    Main Income Subscriptions and services for small businesses
    Contribution Connected MSMEs online, helping them grow
    Dinesh Chandra Agarwal - Top Richest Persons in Uttar Pradesh
    Dinesh Chandra Agarwal – Top Richest Persons in Uttar Pradesh

    Dinesh Chandra Agarwal transformed B2B commerce in India through IndiaMART. His platform empowers millions of small businesses to thrive. His entrepreneurial vision continues to influence the digital economy in Uttar Pradesh and beyond.

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    Sachin Agarwal – INR 4,800 Crore

    Company Policybazaar
    City Noida
    Industry Fintech & Insurance
    Background From a business family in Noida
    Lifestyle Real estate investor and education charity donor
    Main Income Commission from insurance sales and partnerships
    Contribution Simplified insurance access for millions

    Sachin Agarwal has leveraged technology to make insurance accessible to all. Policybazaar’s innovative approach has reshaped India’s insurance sector. His work inspires young entrepreneurs in fintech and digital services.

    Alakh Pandey – INR 4,500 Crore

    Company PhysicsWallah
    City Prayagraj
    Industry EdTech
    Background Middle-class family, passionate about teaching
    Family Support Parents supported his teaching dream
    Lifestyle Simple life, owns studios and offices
    Main Income Online classes, coaching, and educational content
    Contribution Made quality education affordable for millions
    Alakh Pandey - Top Richest Persons in Uttar Pradesh
    Alakh Pandey – Top Richest Persons in Uttar Pradesh

    Alakh Pandey represents the new generation of tech-educators. His platform, PhysicsWallah, provides affordable learning to students across India. He shows that passion and dedication can create both impact and wealth.

    Pradeep Kumar Jain – INR 4,400 Crore

    Company PNC Infratech
    City Agra
    Industry Infrastructure & Construction
    Background Part of the Jain family in Agra
    Family Support Works with brothers Chakresh and Naveen
    Lifestyle Owns luxury homes, cars, and industrial equipment
    Main Income Government and private construction contracts
    Contribution Built highways and bridges across India

    Pradeep Kumar Jain has contributed massively to India’s infrastructure development. His projects connect cities and improve commerce. He exemplifies how construction and civil engineering can generate both wealth and social impact.

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    Chakresh Kumar Jain – INR 4,400 Crore

    Company PNC Infratech
    City Agra
    Industry Infrastructure
    Background Brother of Pradeep and Naveen
    Lifestyle Owns commercial buildings and properties
    Main Income Roads, highways, and airport projects
    Contribution Improved rural and urban infrastructure in UP

    Chakresh Kumar Jain plays a key role in enhancing Uttar Pradesh’s connectivity. His projects benefit both urban and rural communities. Working alongside his brothers, he is a pillar of UP’s infrastructure growth.

    Company PNC Infratech
    City Agra
    Industry Civil Engineering & Infrastructure
    Background Youngest of the Jain brothers
    Lifestyle Known for strategic leadership and efficient management
    Main Income Public works and infrastructure contracts
    Contribution Built trust and reputation for PNC in construction
    Naveen Kumar Jain - Top Richest Persons in Uttar Pradesh
    Naveen Kumar Jain – Top Richest Persons in Uttar Pradesh

    Naveen Kumar Jain brings innovation and efficiency to India’s infrastructure sector. Alongside his brothers, he has transformed PNC into a trusted name. Their teamwork makes them one of UP’s most influential business families.

    Yashovardhan Agarwal – INR 4,000 Crore

    Company PriyaGold
    City Noida
    Industry Food & Beverages
    Background Family-run business
    Lifestyle Owns food factories, distribution networks, and luxury vehicles
    Main Income Biscuits, snacks, and beverages
    Contribution Developed PriyaGold into a top snack brand

    Yashovardhan Agarwal shows that traditional industries like food can create modern billionaires. PriyaGold has become a household name under its leadership. His success demonstrates the enduring potential of consumer goods businesses in UP.

    Conclusion

    Uttar Pradesh is emerging as more than just India’s political and cultural center; it’s also becoming an economic powerhouse. From Kanpur and Noida to Prayagraj and Agra, these entrepreneurs have built businesses that not only brought them immense wealth but also boosted the state’s economy and created countless opportunities. 

    Their ventures span diverse industries like FMCG, fintech, infrastructure, edtech, and food & beverages, showing that UP’s growth story is multi-faceted. Many of these leaders started with modest beginnings, yet through innovation, persistence, and strong family support, they turned local enterprises into nationally recognized brands. As a result, Uttar Pradesh is now not just a hub for culture and politics, but also a fertile ground for entrepreneurship, innovation, and wealth creation.

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    FAQs

    Who are Top 10 Richest Persons in Uttar Pradesh?

    Top 10 Richest Persons in Uttar Pradesh are:

    • Muralidhar Gyanchandani – RSPL Group (Ghadi Detergent)
    • Bimal Gyanchandani – RSPL Group (Ghadi Detergent)
    • Vijay Shekhar Sharma – Paytm
    • Dinesh Chandra Agarwal – IndiaMART
    • Sachin Agarwal – Policybazaar
    • Alakh Pandey – PhysicsWallah
    • Pradeep Kumar Jain – PNC Infratech
    • Chakresh Kumar Jain – PNC Infratech
    • Naveen Kumar Jain – PNC Infratech
    • Yashovardhan Agarwal – PriyaGold

    Which industries are making billionaires in Uttar Pradesh?

    Key industries driving wealth creation in Uttar Pradesh are FMCG, fintech, B2B e-commerce, infrastructure, edtech, and food & beverages.

    Is Uttar Pradesh becoming a business hub in India?

    Yes, Uttar Pradesh is rapidly growing into a business hub, with cities like Kanpur, Noida, Agra, and Prayagraj producing successful business leaders who contribute massively to India’s economy.

  • Physics Wallah Marketing Strategy: How Engagement, Digital Courses, and Offline Learning Drive Its Success

    India’s edtech industry is valued at $7.5 billion in 2024, and is projected to grow to $29 billion by 2030. One name stands out: Physics Wallah, an Indian unicorn edtech startup founded in 2016 by Alakh Pandey and Prateek Maheshwari. Today, the brand is a household name among students preparing for competitive exams. 

    So, how has Physics Wallah stood out in an industry crowded with big players? Its USP: offering affordable, high-quality learning resources, particularly in STEM subjects. 

    But here’s the kicker — Physics Wallah’s marketing strategy is as clever as their teaching methods. Mixing grassroots efforts with savvy social media moves and the founder’s star power, the startup has shaken up traditional education and amassed millions of subscribers across various platforms. 

    Curious how they’ve pulled this off? What’s behind Physics Wallah‘s meteoric rise? Let’s find out.  

    Physics Wallah – Target Audience
    Physics Wallah – Marketing Mix
    Physics Wallah Marketing Strategy
    Unique Features of Physics Wallah’s Marketing Strategies
    Physics Wallah’s – Marketing Campaigns
    What’s Driving Physics Wallah’s Marketing Success? 

    Physics Wallah – Target Audience

    Physics Wallah Office

    Physics Wallah primarily targets Indian students aged 14-22, preparing for competitive exams like JEE, NEET, and other engineering and medical entrance tests. 

    The edtech startup caters to students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds; both urban and rural learners looking for high-quality education without breaking the bank. Often, Physics Wallah reaches students in tier 2 and tier 3 cities with limited access to quality coaching. 

    The target audience is tech-savvy go-getters who can’t always make it to fancy coaching centers. They are motivated to excel academically and are looking for flexible, online learning options to supplement their school education. 

    Physics Wallah – Marketing Mix

    Alakh Pandey with students
    Alakh Pandey with students

    Physics Wallah’s marketing strategy is centered around a single premise: offering high-quality, affordable education to everyone. Here’s what the company’s marketing mix looks like. 

    Physicswallah Marketing Mix
    Physicswallah Marketing Mix
    • Product: What is Physics Wallah selling? Primarily online educational content in the form of video lectures, study materials, and live classes, that focus on physics and other subjects for competitive exams.
    • Price: Physics Wallah is way cheaper than your typical coaching centers, which means more students can afford to learn. For instance, the fee structure for Physics Wallah’s Vidyapeeth JEE Fastrack 2024 is INR 35,400, whereas a one-year course at a reputable institute can easily set you back between INR 1,00,000 and INR 3,00,000.
    • Place: It’s primarily online – website, app, and YouTube channel. You can study from your bedroom if you want to! However, the startup also has offline Vidyapeeth centers.
    • Promotion: When it comes to getting the word out, Physics Wallah is all over social media and YouTube. But, their best advertisers are their own students. Happy kids tell their friends, and boom – more students. Let’s not forget Alakh Pandey, the founder. He’s the face of the brand, and people really connect with him. 

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    Physics Wallah Marketing Strategy

    Physics Wallah uses a multi-pronged marketing approach to reach and engage its target audience of students preparing for competitive exams. Its marketing strategy leverages both digital and traditional channels to maximize reach and impact.

    A strong online presence and content-driven approach is its biggest strength. The platform’s YouTube channel, which boasts over 13 million subscribers to date, is a significant source of organic traffic and brand awareness. Essentially, the company uses the “give a little, get a lot” approach. By putting out free educational content, they’re not just being generous – they’re playing the long game.

    Think of it like this: the company gives students a taste of what it offers through free videos or materials. This accomplishes two things at once. First, it shows students that Physics Wallah really knows their stuff. It builds trust and credibility. Second, it gives students a chance to experience the value of what Physics Wallah provides.

    So, when these same students are considering paid tutoring or courses, who do you think comes to mind first? Physics Wallah, of course!  Let’s look at each of their marketing strategies in a little more detail. 

    SEO Strategy 

    Physics Wallah’s robust SEO strategy helps improve its visibility in search engine results. The website and content is optimized for relevant keywords. Think exam-specific keywords like “JEE Main preparation”, “NEET study materials”, or “UPSC coaching online” or subject-specific terms such as “organic chemistry formulas” and “Newton’s laws of motion explained”.

    Mock tests like the NEET mock test and JEE Main mock test keep students engaged, help increase time spent on their website, and reduce bounce rates. The regular addition of new tests keeps the content fresh – all important markers for SEO success. 

    The startup also collaborates with educational blogs like Ed Tech Review for guest posting opportunities and encourages student testimonials and link backs from their personal blogs or social media

    On the YouTube channel, Physics Wallah makes sure to optimize video titles, descriptions, and tags for search and creates playlists for specific subjects and exam preparation strategies.  

    OTT Advertising

    By expanding to OTT platforms like Amazon Mini TV, Physics Wallah differentiated itself from competitors who were focused solely on dedicated educational apps or websites. The platform strategy also aligned with where the target audience was spending a significant amount of time.

    Social Media Strategy 

    Physics Wallah Social Media Strategy 
    Physics Wallah Social Media Strategy

    Physics Wallah uses social channels like Instagram and Twitter to share educational content, exam tips, motivational messages, and updates about their courses and offerings.

    On social media, Physics Wallah has unapologetically jumped on the meme bandwagon, creating and sharing funny educational memes related to the subjects they teach. Why does this work? Their target audience is students. And, every time a student chuckles at one of their memes, they’re also remembering the brand. 

    Community Building

    The platform builds a strong learning community through doubt-solving groups, interactive live sessions, and active social media engagement. This sense of belonging keeps students loyal and engaged. It also encourages peer-to-peer learning, where students support each other and share knowledge. Regular motivational sessions further strengthen this bond, making students feel connected to the brand.

    To complement its organic reach, Physics Wallah invests in targeted paid advertising campaigns across search engines and social media platforms. These campaigns are designed to reach potential students searching for educational resources or who are interested in preparing for competitive exams. 

    Email Marketing 

    Email is one of the most cost-effective mediums to nurture leads and maintain engagement. Physics Wallah sends students newsletters with study tips, exam updates, and promotional offers to keep them informed.

    Emails can be personalized based on student data, so Physics Wallah can tailor content to specific segments of their audience. JEE aspirants and NEET-focused students receive a different set of emails from occasional users at risk of dropping out. Moreover, these emails can be tailored to different stages of the student journey, from initial interest to active learning and beyond. 

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    Unique Features of Physics Wallah’s Marketing Strategies

    Physics Wallah’s distinctive marketing strategies are behind the company’s rapid growth and popularity. Let’s take a closer look. 

    • Founder-centric branding: The company heavily leverages the persona of Alakh Pandey, who prominently features on marketing materials and content. His rags-to-riches story resonates with many students and creates an emotional connection. 
    • Affordable pricing: Physics Wallah emphasizes its low-cost, high-quality education model. The brand positions itself as an accessible alternative to more expensive competitors.
    • Vernacular approach: The platform offers content in multiple Indian languages, to appeal to a broader audience beyond English-speaking urban centers. 
    • Word-of-mouth marketing: The company encourages student testimonials and success stories. This boosts organic growth through peer recommendations.
    • Offline-online integration: Physics Wallah has expanded into physical coaching centers, creating a hybrid model that appeals to students who prefer traditional learning environments.

    Physics Wallah’s – Marketing Campaigns

    Let’s take a look at some of Physics Wallah’s major marketing campaigns that have helped the brand’s growth. 

    PW Pathshala

    One of their most successful campaigns, PW Pathshala aimed to provide free offline classes in various cities. It gave students the opportunity to experience Physics Wallah’s teaching methodology firsthand. The campaign generated significant buzz and helped convert many attendees into long-term users of their online platform.

    PW Scholarship Test

    The PW Scholarship Test offered substantial discounts on courses to high-performing students. This not only attracted talented learners but also created a sense of aspiration among the student community, positioning Physics Wallah as a platform for serious academic pursuit. 

    Learn from Home

    Launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Learn from Home campaign emphasized the accessibility and effectiveness of online learning. Physics Wallah offered free live classes and study materials to students affected by school closures. The initiative significantly boosted Physics Wallah’s user base and brand recognition.    

    Physics Wallah TV Series

    Physics Wallah TV Series | physics Wallah Advertisement

    In 2022, the TV series Physics Wallah was released on Amazon Mini TV. The series focused on the life of Alakh Pandey and his company. The inspiring story tells us Pandey’s journey from a top student in Class 10 and Class 12 who was unable to crack the IIT exam, to 2016, when armed with nothing but a camera and a passion for teaching, he launched the YouTube channel “Physics Wallah – Alakh Pandey.”

    The relatable and motivating story solidified Alakh Pandey’s personal brand which has been one of the key drivers of the Physics Wallah success story. 

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    What’s Driving Physics Wallah’s Marketing Success? 

    In a nutshell, Physics Wallah has consistently delivered value and maintained a focus on student success.

    The company’s affordable pricing strategy and high-quality content resonate with price-sensitive Indian students, while the effective use of social media and word-of-mouth marketing has amplified brand reach. 

    Physics Wallah’s authenticity, affordability, and quality content continue to drive its marketing success in India’s competitive edutech landscape.

    FAQ

    Who is CEO of Physics Wallah?

    The CEO of Physics Wallah is Alakh Pandey.

    Is Physics Wallah free or paid?

    At Physics Wallah, students can choose between paid and free batches to suit their preferences and budgets.

    Is Physics Wallah good for IIT?

    Yes, Physics Wallah is highly regarded for IIT JEE preparation. It offers affordable, high-quality courses, well-structured materials, and experienced instructors, making it a popular choice among IIT aspirants.

  • Behind the Genius: Exploring the Life of Alakh Pandey, Founder of Physics Wallah

    “Our aim is to bring about a revolution in education by reaching out to millions of students in a sustainable and affordable way,” says Alakh Pandey, the CEO of “Physics Wallah”.

    Here is yet another inspiring story of a man whose journey from poverty to prosperity is nothing short of remarkable. Struggling with financial troubles, Alakh Pandey stumbled upon an idea that would change his life forever: Using his passion for teaching to change the lives of many.

    Through hard work and a strong belief in the importance of education, Alakh’s story of going from nothing to something has inspired countless students all over the country.

    In this StartupTalky article, we will explore Alakh Pandey’s success story, including his early life, history, childhood, personal life, education, achievements, and more.

    Alakh Pandey Biography

    Name Alakh Pandey
    Birthplace Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
    Born 2 October, 1991
    Nationality Indian
    Education Mechanical Engineering, Harcourt Butler Technical Institute, Kanpur
    Position Co-founder and CEO, PhysicsWallah
    Net worth INR 4500 crore (2024)

    Alakh Pandey – Early Life
    Alakh Pandey – Education
    Alakh Pandey – Career
    Alakh Pandey – YouTube Channel and Application
    Alakh Pandey – Physics Wallah
    Alakh Pandey – Advocate for NEET Aspirants
    Alakh Pandey – Challenges Faced
    Alakh Pandey – Family
    Alakh Pandey – TV Series
    Alakh Pandey – Investments
    Alakh Pandey – Awards and Achievements
    Alakh Pandey – Interesting Facts

    Alakh Pandey – Early Life

    Alakh Pandey’s early life had been very tough as his parents struggled to make ends meet. He was born in 1991 and his birthplace is Prayagraj of Uttar Pradesh. As his family was not in a financially stable condition, he had to go through hardships even during his childhood days. When he was in his school days, his family had to sell their house for financial needs. He grew up witnessing all these hardships that his family went through.

    He understood the requirement of him to contribute to the family financially. So, in the 9th grade, he started tutoring some younger kids. Subsequently, he started tutoring in coaching institutes when he was in the 11th grade. But at that time, he had no clue that this was going to be a turning point in his life.

    Alakh Pandey – Education

    It is ironic to say that ‘Physics Wallah’ who coaches thousands of students didn’t have any extraordinary educational background.

    He did his schooling at Bishop Johnson School and joined Harcourt Butler Technical Institute to pursue his graduation in Mechanical Engineering. But, soon he dropped out of college and did not complete his graduation. He then started teaching at coaching institutes in Allahabad for a meager salary.

    Alakh Pandey – Career

    Many years back, Alakh Pandey hadn’t even dreamt of the career path he ended up taking. As he liked acting, he wanted to pursue it as a career.

    But, destiny had other ideas.

    Though he started teaching to support the financial crisis of his family, he soon started enjoying teaching which later on turned out to be his passion.

    Very soon, he became a very famous teacher among the students at the coaching institute. Students were very much attracted to his animated way of teaching.

    Since Pandey wanted to reach many more students, he decided to launch his YouTube channel in 2016.

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    Alakh Pandey – YouTube Channel and Application

    In 2016, ‘Physics Wallah’ – Alakh Pandey’s YouTube channel, was launched. After almost a year, the viewership of his channel started growing at an astonishingly fast rate.

    From just more than 3800 subscribers in 2017, his channel garnered a whopping more than 68 lakh subscribers in 2022. One of the most important reasons for the success of his YouTube channel was that he provided very valuable content free of cost, while other channels were charging the viewers for such content.

    Currently, more than 36 million students benefit from the 80 channels that the company owns in 8 vernacular languages.

    These different channels give free of cost training for many different competitive exams like IIT JEE, UPSC, CA, State PSC, etc.

    In 2020, he also rolled out the Physics Wallah app. By 2021, the app had 2.1 million sign-ups. Currently, 15 million people use the app for their preparation for various competitive exams.

    Alakh Pandey – PhysicsWallah

    Alakh Pandey, who began his journey as a teacher in coaching institutes, subsequently launched his YouTube channel which became a huge success. This paved the way for his EdTech company Physics Wallah Private Limited. The company has its headquarters in Noida, Delhi.

    When the institute was started, around ten thousand students enrolled in the very first month. One of the very important reasons for the success of Physics Wallah is the affordable fees that they charge while providing quality education.

    Notably, there is another person, Prateek Maheshwari, who co-founded the company and stands as the backbone of it.

    This is what Alakh Pandey says about him, “The credit for making our product great goes to my co-founder, Prateek Maheshwari. He made the app, taught me how to build an organization, taught me automation, and the basics of quality analysis. He is the backbone of PW.” 

    By September 2024, Physics Wallah raised $210 million in funding at a valuation of $2.8 billion which is 2.5x of its last valuation. The round was led by Hornbill Capital.

    Physics Wallah Financials
    Physics Wallah Financials

    Alakh Pandey – Advocate for NEET Aspirants

    Alakh Pandey has called upon the Supreme Court to investigate allegations of discrepancies in the NEET-UG June 2024, the all-India medical entrance examination. Pandey, who has been vocal about the controversies surrounding the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate), has submitted a public interest litigation (PIL) seeking an independent committee to probe the issue. This act has transformed him into a sort of messiah for the NEET-affected students.

    Alakh Pandey – Challenges Faced

    The story of Physics Wallah might be inspiring and might look like he climbed the ladder too easily. But there were highly challenging times when Alakh Pandey had to stand strong.

    For instance, there were giant rivals like some EdTech companies who played nasty tricks to weaken the hold that Physics Wallah had on the students through his teaching. Not only that but also some unforeseen challenges arose like the application crashing when loads of students tried to sign up.

    But in all these tough times, Alakh’s unwavering confidence and courage made him even more popular among his student fans.

    Alakh Pandey – Family

    Alakh Pandey’s parents are Satish Pandey & Rajat Pandey and he has a sister named Aditi Pandey. He is seen talking with pride about his sister who stood by him like a huge pillar of support during the tough times.

    Alakh now 31 years old, is married to Shivani Dubey who is a journalist.

    Alakh Pandey – TV Series

    It is truly a matter of pride and it shows a person’s fame and accomplishments to have a TV series made based on their story. Alakh Pandey has such pride in his name. A TV series has been made inspired by the life of Alakh Pandey and called Physics Wallah. It stars Shreedhar Dubey and was released in 2022 on Amazon Prime.

    Physics Wallah Official Trailer

    Alakh Pandey – Investments

    Physics Wallah invested in iNeuron.ai on Dec 22, 2022.

    Alakh Pandey – Awards and Achievements

    Alakh Pandey has been awarded with the following accolades:

    • Alakah Pandey was named to the prestigious Hurun List of top young entrepreneurs under 35 in 2024.
    • Pandey was awarded the Best Digital Person of the Year: Growth Catalyst at the 15th edition of the IDA in 2024.

    Alakh Pandey – Interesting Facts

    • Alakh Pandey is so passionate about physics that after a few years of teaching, he got a tattoo of a ‘pi’ symbol on his arm and an equation on his wrist.
    • Alakh Pandey used to be actively involved in theatre during his school and college days and had planned to have a career in acting.

    FAQs

    Who is Alakh Pandey?

    Alakh Pandey is the founder and CEO of Physics Wallah.

    What is Physics Wallah?

    Physics Wallah is an EdTech startup founded in 2014 by Alakh Pandey. It is an e-learning platform that offers quality learning experiences at an affordable cost.

    What is Alakh Pandey education qualification?

    Alakh Pandey pursued a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Mechanical Engineering at Harcourt Butler Technical University (HBTU), Kanpur. However, he dropped out in his third year to focus on teaching and later built Physics Wallah into a successful edtech platform.

    What is Alakh Pandey age?

    Alakh Pandey was born on 2 October, 1991. He is 33 years old.

    Which is Alakh Pandey hometown?

    Alakh Pandey was born in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

    When did Alakh launch his YouTube Channel?

    In 2016, ‘Physics Wallah’ – Alakh Pandey’s YouTube channel, was launched. After almost a year, the viewership of his channel started growing at an astonishingly fast rate. From just more than 3800 subscribers in 2017, his channel garnered a whopping more than 68 lakh subscribers in 2022.

  • Andhra Pradesh and PhysicsWallah Collaborate to Create a Deep-Tech, Artificial Intelligence-Focused University of Innovation

    In order to create the University of Innovation (UoI), which aims to be the first Institute of Eminence (IoE) in the state, the Government of Andhra Pradesh (GoAP) and PhysicsWallah (PW), an EdTech business, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU).

    According to a statement released on December 21, this initiative aligns with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s vision of educating the state’s youth in artificial intelligence (AI), emerging technologies, new age skills, and entrepreneurship. This will help Andhra Pradesh become a hub for education.

    University will Focus on Blending Academic Excellence, Innovation, and Research

    The goal of the University of Innovation is to combine research, innovation, and excellence in education. Addressing important issues in education and employability is another primary objective. A hub-and-spoke strategy would be used for the effort, with satellite centres located around Andhra Pradesh functioning as spokes and the University as the primary hub. This strategy aims to give students from various geographic locations and backgrounds access to modern, hybrid education that blends online and in-person learning opportunities. PW is working with industry partners like Amazon Web Services to offer education that is relevant to the industry in an effort to maintain the curriculum in line with the market.

    The goal of this collaboration, according to Nara Lokesh, Minister for Human Resources Development in the Andhra Pradesh government, is to promote innovation and give the state’s young skills that meet industry standards and demands. It is admirable that the University of Innovation has the goal to become an Institute of Eminence by fusing cutting-edge technology and education to pave the road for progress and development. The state government is certain that this project will solidify the state’s standing as a pioneer in knowledge generation and talent development.

    Alakh Pandey, the founder and CEO of PhysicsWallah (PW), expressed his opinions on the partnership by saying that PhysicsWallah values education. Its establishment of the University of Innovation in collaboration with the Andhra Pradesh government is a step in that direction. In order to establish an institution that blends academic learning with industry relevance, the brand has committed to investing up to INR 1000 crores from GSV Ventures in the US and other investors. In an effort to promote entrepreneurship and innovation, the UoI will assist students with the skills they may require in a labour market that is continuously changing.

    Further Details Revealed Through a Joint Statement

    According to a joint statement, GoAP and PW’s unified perspective is reflected in the creation of the University of Innovation. To guarantee individualised learning experiences for every student, the university will also try to use technology, such as AI-driven tools and adaptive learning platforms. This collaboration is an attempt to help the young people develop talents that are relevant to the industry, which will help them develop the abilities they require.

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  • Physics Wallah (PW) Secures $210 Million in Series B Funding Round at a Valuation of $2.8 Billion

    India, September 20’ 2024: Physics Wallah Private Limited (PW), India’s leading education company, has closed its Series B funding round, raising USD 210 million. This investment brings the company’s post-money valuation to an impressive USD 2.8 billion, a 2.5x jump over its last valuation of USD 1.1 billion. The funding round was led by Hornbill Capital, with significant participation from Lightspeed Venture Partners, alongside the continued support of its existing investors, GSV and WestBridge.

    Physics Wallah’s funding round serves as a beacon of optimism amidst challenging times for the EdTech sector, showcasing the unwavering confidence of both existing and new investors in Physics Wallah’s growth and its mission to democratize education across India. The remarkable interest from both new and existing investors underscores the strong belief in PW’s ability to deliver quality education to Bharat’s next generation.

    Alakh Pandey, Founder, and CEO of Physics Wallah, expressed his gratitude, stating, “This investment is not just a validation of our efforts to democratize education and make quality education accessible to every student in India, but also a testament to the impact we have created over the years. Prateek and I are excited to partner with Hornbill Capital and Lightspeed Venture Partners in this journey, and we deeply appreciate the continued trust from WestBridge and GSV.”

    Prateek Maheshwari, Co-founder of Physics Wallah, added, “Our focus has always been on creating value for our students and ensuring their success. This new round of funding will enable us to expand our reach, enhance our technological capabilities, and continue delivering unparalleled learning experiences. This comes on the back of strong sustainable y-o-y growth – in fact FY25 is going to be the year of the largest absolute EBITDA profitability for the PW Group. There are no good or bad markets but only good or bad stories – and ours is a great impact story!”

    Physics Wallah produces 9,500 hours of educational content every week with a student base across 18,808 pin codes, accounting for almost 98% of pin codes in India. This funding will bolster its already significant cash reserves to support its future growth plans. PW’s expansion from school education to skilling is integral to the strategic vision, designed to support students at every stage of their journey and solidify its role as a trusted, comprehensive partner in education and career advancement.

    The funds raised will be strategically utilized to scale operations, with a key focus on consolidation in the education market. Physics Wallah plans to pursue inorganic expansion, enter the K-12 formal education segment, enhance its content and publication offerings, and explore mergers with community-driven education platforms across categories. As PW moves forward, it remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering students and helping them achieve their academic aspirations through these strategic initiatives. 

    Here’s what the key stakeholders have to say about Physics Wallah’s latest milestone and its continued journey toward transforming education in India:

    Speaking about Hornbill’s investment in PW, Dubai-based Manoj Thakur, Founder of Hornbill Capital, remarked, “Physics Wallah is a rare combination of vision, execution, and impact with a thriving 3C model– Content, Community, and Commerce. We are excited to see PW’s use of AI not only to help improve students’ outcomes but also their emotional well-being. We are thrilled to lead this round of investment and support PW in its mission to provide quality education at affordable prices through the use of cutting-edge technology.”

    “We are excited to partner with Alakh and Prateek to support their mission to bring quality education to every student in India. The community of students built over years of painstaking creation of quality educational videos, as well as reasonably priced offerings for online and offline courses, has made Physics Wallah a familiar brand name across the breadth and width of India and across all socioeconomic groups,” said Dev Khare, partner at Lightspeed Venture Partners.

    Sandeep Singhal, Co-founder and Managing Partner at WestBridge, shared his enthusiasm, “Our decision to double down on Physics Wallah is driven by the company’s exceptional growth, strong execution, and long-term vision. We believe in the leadership of Alakh and Prateek and their ability to solve one of India’s stickiest problems, which is to provide world-class education at super low cost and at a population scale. In that, PW is probably one of the highest social impact enterprises that I have ever seen.”

    Deborah Quazzo, Managing Partner at GSV Ventures, echoed these sentiments, stating, “The impact that Physics Wallah has had on students across Bharat is incredibly inspiring. Our investment in PW, the largest commitment we’ve made to date, reflects our strong belief in the company’s commitment to quality and accessibility. The PW team has a unique ability to democratize education on a global scale, delivering high-quality learning at an affordable cost. The positive outcomes achieved by PW students align perfectly with our investment philosophy, and we are excited to further strengthen our partnership.”

    About PW:

    Physics Wallah (PW), India’s leading EdTech unicorn, was founded in 2020 by Alakh Pandey (Founder & CEO) and Prateek Maheshwari (Co-Founder). Headquartered in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, PW is democratizing education at scale across India through online, offline, and hybrid platforms, and has reached 98% of the country’s pin codes. Initially launched as a YouTube channel in 2014, PW has been growing exponentially, now offering free quality education to over 4.6+ crore students through its 112+ YouTube channels in 5 vernacular languages. The PW app has been downloaded 3+ crore times, and the company has over 55+ lakh paid students.

    PW is creating the biggest hybrid education ecosystem in the country by establishing tech-enabled offline and hybrid centers in 105 cities nationwide. As a lifelong learning partner, PW’s offerings span various educational segments, including 2 Gurukulam Schools, test preparation in 43 categories, a skilling vertical, higher education, and study abroad. Additionally, the company also has an Institute of Innovation (IOI) that provides world-class 4-year residential job-ready programs.

    About Lightspeed

    Lightspeed is a global multi-stage venture capital firm focused on accelerating disruptive innovations and trends in the Enterprise, Consumer, Health, and Fintech sectors. Over the past two decades, the Lightspeed team has backed hundreds of entrepreneurs and helped build more than 500 companies globally including Affirm, Acceldata, Carta, Cato Networks, Darwinbox Epic Games, Faire, Innovaccer, Guardant Health, Mulesoft, Navan, Netskope, Nutanix, Rubrik, Sharechat, Snap, OYO Ultima Genomics and more. Lightspeed and its global team currently manage $25B in AUM across the Lightspeed platform, with investment professionals and advisors in the U.S., Europe, India, Israel, and Southeast Asia.

    About WestBridge Capital

    WestBridge Capital is a leading investment firm that focuses on partnering with high-growth companies in India and Southeast Asia. With a deep commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent, WestBridge has built a robust portfolio across various sectors including technology, financial services, consumer goods, and healthcare. The firm manages assets worth over $7 billion and brings a value-driven, long-term approach to its investments. WestBridge Capital is renowned for its ability to support businesses from the early stages through to late-stage growth, providing both capital and strategic insights to help companies scale sustainably.

    About GSV

    GSV Ventures, a multi-stage venture capital firm focused on the $7+ trillion global education and workforce skills sector, manages and invests from GSV Ventures Fund III. GSV has invested $600M+ in innovators across “Pre-K to Gray” learning, including ClassDojo, Coursera, Coursehero, Degreed, Guild, Lead School, Physics Wallah, Photomath, Quizizz and Classplus.

    About Hornbill Capital

    Hornbill Capital, founded by Manoj Thakur, specializes in the internet and digital technology, consumer and healthcare sectors. Hornbill Capital has expertise in long-short investment strategies and growth-stage private equity investments. The fund advised by Hornbill Capital was an anchor investor in the IPOs of IndiaMART, Affle, Nazara Technologies, Latent View, Star Health, Supriya Lifescience, PropEquity, eMudhra Limited and Honasa Consumer Limited. The investment manager has a deep understanding of the internet and digital technology space based on its investments across public and private companies in these sectors.

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  • Physics Wallah Launches PW School of Startups with INR 100 Crore Investment Fund to Empower Aspiring Entrepreneurs

    Launching the PW School of Startups (SOS) under the PW Foundation, the edtech platform Physics Wallah (PW) has taken a giant leap forward in its goal to make education accessible to all students in India.

    By focussing on the development of entrepreneurial skills, PW SOS aims to close the gap between more conventional forms of education and the ever-changing startup ecosystem. In order to help budding entrepreneurs turn their ideas into profitable businesses, the initiative offers a wide range of resources, including affordable programmes, hands-on training, strategic mentoring, and access to funding.

    The introduction of PW SOS coincides with a period of great success for India’s startup scene. India ranked seventh out of 49 nations in the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor India Report 2022/23, with 75.5% of Indians perceiving good local business chances. In addition, the country’s third-largest startup ecosystem is in India, where over 78% of the youth feel it quite straightforward to start a firm. Half of the 10 lakh employment created by Indian startups by 2023 were from areas outside of Tier 2 cities, which meant they were responding to issues on a local level in areas like healthcare, education, and agriculture.

    Preparing Participants for Entrepreneurial Challenges

    In order to meet the obstacles of entrepreneurship, PW SOS provides its members with practical skills, real-world experience, and a community of support, according to the official announcement. The institution’s mission is to support the startup community in its pursuit of innovation, creativity, and long-term success. Those that take part are able to tap into a wealth of possibilities and resources that are essential to the success of entrepreneurs.

    Prateek Maheshwari, Co-Founder of Physics Wallah, highlighted, “Our goal with PW SOS is to connect budding entrepreneurs with mentors who have built successful businesses and scaled them. On top of that, we have set aside $11.9 million (INR 100 Cr) to back 100 companies for the next 60 months.”

    Programmes Offered

    Aarambh, Prarambh, and Hopes Alive are the three separate programmes that PW SOS provides, and they are all designed to help entrepreneurs at different points in their journeys. Aarambh is an offline programme that runs for five days and aims to help students, young professionals, and college students accelerate their growth by providing them with tools, networks, and advice from experts. The five-month Prarambh programme focusses on budgeting and business model development; it is aimed for college students, early professionals, small family company owners, and social impact enthusiasts. As a 5-month hybrid programme, Hopes Alive provides seed-funded and bootstrapped businesses with access to capital, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

    It is PW SOS’s intention to register one hundred in Prarambh and one thousand in Aarambh within the next twelve months.

    “Companies in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities have great business ideas, but they don’t have someone to help them out or a community to lean on,” according to Alakh Pandey, CEO and Founder of Physics Wallah.

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  • Physics Wallah Launches INR 250 Crore in JEE/NEET Scholarships

    Physics Wallah, one of the major players in the field of education in India, has introduced the NSAT (National Scholarship Common Admission Test) 2024, which is the organization’s most ambitious scholarship program to date. Students who are studying for the NEET-UG and IIT-JEE examinations are eligible to receive a total of INR 250 crore in various forms of financial assistance through the third iteration of the scholarship test. The program, which is intended to make access to high-quality education more accessible to more people, provides substantial assistance without charging any registration costs.

    While the NSAT 2024 will be administered online from October 1 to October 15, it will also be administered offline on October 6 and October 13 at several different centers. Aspirants from all different classes, including PCM and PCB groups, are welcome to participate in the program, which is open to kids from Class VI up to Class XII. The top one thousand students will be awarded scholarships that cover all of their educational and housing costs, with a particular focus on assisting the top five hundred students who come from disadvantaged backgrounds.

    How This Can Be a Game-Changer?

    As a result of this endeavor, it is anticipated that the local education market will have a rippling effect. Students and educational institutions in the country will likely take advantage of the opportunity to improve their academic performance as a result of the introduction of such a major scholarship, which will likely promote higher participation and elevate the competitive environment. The results are expected to be made public in November of 2024, which will be a watershed moment in the history of educational assistance for students who aspire to be scholars.

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    About Physics Wallah

    In 2020, Alakh Pandey, who serves as the company’s founder and CEO, and Prateek Maheshwari, who serves as the company’s co-founder, established Physics Wallah (PW), which is India’s premier EdTech unicorn. PW, which has its headquarters in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, is working to democratize education on a large scale across India by utilizing online, offline, and hybrid platforms. Furthermore, the company has reached 98% of the country’s pin codes. Following its first inception as a YouTube channel in 2014, PW has experienced exponential growth, and it now provides free education of a high standard to more than 4.6 crore students through its 112+ YouTube channels, which are available in five different vernacular languages.

    More than three crores of people have downloaded the PW app, and the company has more than fifty-five lakh students who are paid. PW is in the process of constructing tech-enabled offline and hybrid centers in 105 locations across the country to create the largest hybrid education ecosystem in the country. PW is a partner in lifelong learning, and its offerings cover a wide range of educational domains. These domains include two schools, test preparation in more than forty-three categories, a skilling vertical, higher education, and study abroad (AcadFly).

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