The unexpected demands quick thinking and adaptability

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.