YourStory Exclusive: Kishore Biyani, CEO of Future Group on what made him a successful entrepreneur

We at YourStory had the opportunity to catch up with Kishore Biyani, CEO of Future Group at the sidelines of the DREAM:IN conference here in Bangalore today. Mr. Biyani was a key speaker at this conference, which has been put together with the intent of arriving at sustainable and transformational ideas for business, policy, social change and development through the dreams and aspirations of people from across the country. As one of India's most successful entrepreneurs with business interests across various sectors, we quizzed him on the need for formal training in entrepreneurship and also, the secret behind his stupendous success.Q. In India, the most acceptable culmination of the process of education is landing a job. Under such circumstances, do you think incorporating entrepreneurship into the mainstream education system is good way to boost the emergence of entrepreneurial talent in the country?

A. I don't think so. In fact, the research we've done has shown us that for every employee in a standard white collar job, there are 11 people who are self-employed. We're a nation of shopkeepers and dukaandaars. In fact, if I had gone on to do my MBA, I would have never become an entrepreneur.

Q. In retrospect, what do you think made you the success story that you are?

A. I keep stressing on the fact that there is more happiness in experiencing the journey than in achieving the objective. Also, it's important to believe in yourself. But if I were to think of one thing that I've not spoken much about, it'd be the fact that I always take a contrarian view. For instance, when the recession was on, I was pushing for growth. All the talk about being a successful entrepreneur is fine. But the role that I have always relished the most is being a part of India's new consumption story.

We at YourStory salute the spirit of the Indian entrepreneur and in Kishore Biyani, we have a glorious role model. Please note that the DREAM:IN conference where we caught him is happening here in Bangalore over the next three days as well. For more details, check outhttp://dreamin.in/. Also, do let us know your thoughts on this story. You can write to us at [email protected].

Sriram Mohan | YourStory | 16th February 2011 | Bangalore