At eChai Ventures, our Unforgettable Lessons series shares the defining stories founders carry with them, not the polished wins, but the raw moments of exhaustion, doubt, and resilience that end up shaping their journey.
For Koumal Kalantry, Founder of BigNano Ventures, one such moment came during a grassroots activation in rural Gujarat, where a simple logistical snag turned into a long night that revealed the value of quick decisions and unshakable commitment.
Here’s how she tells it:
Entrepreneurial journey is a true rollercoaster, full of challenges, adventure, and unexpected moments that shape us. Sometimes there’s joy and laughter, sometimes exhaustion and frustration, and sometimes an overwhelming sense of losing control. Yet, in those blurred moments of doubt, clarity hides, pushing us to keep moving.
Recently, during a routine grassroots on-ground activation in rural villages, we faced regular operational problems, from logistics to last-mile challenges. But the real test came late one night, when our booked accommodation turned out to be a frighteningly isolated hotel. Dead tired from a hectic day, our trio tried huddling in one room; when that proved too unnerving, we decided to spend the night in our car, parked in a busy market area for safety. We twisted and turned but managed to get a bit of sleep, then, without missing a beat, went straight back to work the next morning.
What this taught us is the immense value of momentary decisions. Even with all plans in place, the unexpected demands quick thinking and adaptability. Rural activations are dynamic, plans can go haywire, and it’s only the ability to decide in the moment that sees us through. Each grassroots experience reinforces our resolve; far from deterring us, these challenges double our excitement and motivation about the work.
As a team at BigNano, we cherish these stories, they become the memories we hold onto, reminding us why we continue the journey with confidence and pride. The only lesson: be active, keep responding, and never let obstacles halt progress.
"I attended my first eChai event 3 yrs back, and no one knew me in the market. Over the next three years, eChai didn’t only help me with knowledge or networking, but it gave me an identity from being unknown to now being recognized by a group of inspirational entrepreneurs connected with eChai, who have been gracious enough to acknowledge me and Digipple."
Viraj Rajani
Co-Founder, Digipple
"eChai isn’t just a startup community … it’s a mindset . eChai has been one of the most impactful communities in my entrepreneurial journey. It’s been a turning point . In a world where building something can often feel isolating, eChai gave me a sense of belonging. I’ve found mentors, collaborators, and friends here — people who genuinely want to see you succeed. It’s a space where ideas are challenged, actions are celebrated, and founders grow not just in scale, but in clarity and confidence. From late-night ideas to early-morning pitches, this community has quietly but powerfully shaped the way I build, think, and dream. I’ll always be grateful for the way eChai creates spaces where founders don’t just grow businesses — they grow together."
Koumal Kalantry
Founder, Bignano Ventures
"eChai is playing biggest role in my personal and professional life together. Its a community where i meet like minded people to share idea and learn from their idea. Even while playing cricket i learn something and i implement something new from that learning. Its my entry point for building network in different countries where my base is not established yet. Personally my only fun activity day in a week is eChai cricket and social."
yash shah
Chairman, ES Group of Companies
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