Arun Kharat’s remarkable rise from humble beginnings to becoming a respected entrepreneur in Pune serves as an inspiring tale of perseverance, determination, and vision. Starting his career in a modest two-room chawl in Khadki, Pune, Arun has built a thriving business and now moves within the top circles of the city, operating from the upscale Koregaon Park area.

Humble Beginnings and Early Struggles of Arun Kharat

Born into a lower-middle-class Maharashtrian family, Arun’s early life was marked by struggle and modest circumstances. His father, a civilian health superintendent, retired with limited means, and the family had to make do with what little they had. Arun, a daydreamer by nature, didn’t find academic studies particularly engaging. After completing his 10th standard, he spent time at a small family-run footwear shop, seeking something more fulfilling.

Family Expectations and the Engineering Shortcut

While Arun’s brother excelled in academics and pursued a career in medicine, Arun felt drawn toward business. However, under pressure from his mother, who insisted that he continue his education, Arun opted for a career in engineering. Smart and resourceful, he found a way to take a three-year course in mechanical engineering, saving a year in the process.

Early Ventures into Business

Upon completing his degree, Arun realized that traditional jobs weren’t the path for him. He wanted financial independence and sought out business opportunities. His first venture was setting up an STD booth, followed by selling tickets for a private bus company. These early entrepreneurial efforts gave him the confidence to aim higher.

Building a Fleet: The Birth of Wings Travels

In a few short years, Arun ventured into car rentals and began building his fleet of vehicles. Starting with just a few cars, he expanded his operations significantly. Today, Wings Travels owns 475 company cabs, manages 800 cabs under the “Malik Chalak” scheme, and oversees an additional contracted fleet of 5,500 vehicles.

Driving Social Change: Supporting the LGBT Community

Arun’s vision for Wings Travels extended beyond business success. Committed to social change, he partnered with the Humsafar Trust to train and employ 300 individuals from the LGBT community as private taxi drivers. By providing opportunities to those marginalized by society, Arun’s company not only made a social impact but also challenged societal norms.

Ensuring Passenger Safety: The SOS Feature

Wings Travels also prioritizes passenger safety. Each of its cabs is equipped with an innovative SOS feature that activates in case a passenger screams or shows signs of distress. In such cases, nearby cabs are dispatched to offer assistance, ensuring the safety of passengers in need.

Living the Dream

Arun Kharat’s inspiring journey from a small footwear shop to building a business empire that achieves an annual turnover of Rs 140 crore is a testament to his hard work and unyielding determination. He continues to push boundaries, both in business and social initiatives, turning the dreams of his younger self into reality.

Arun’s story serves as a reminder that no matter where one starts, success is achievable through persistence and a vision for the future.

Want to start your own company: Register your Company here and get you GST number now