While most people are followers, a very small percentage of people are leaders and change-makers who contribute to the betterment of society, Anand’s story is one such inspiring story. Born in Sangli, Maharashtra, and brought up in Bagalkot, Karnataka. Hailing from the Jain community, Anand pursued a B.Com degree before venturing into the world of business. Financial hardships struck his family early on, compelling him to sell chocolates, biscuits, and suparis in small shops on his bike to support his family and pay for his college education. This humble beginning laid the foundation for a remarkable entrepreneurial journey.
"Facing financial challenges at a young age taught me the value of hard work and perseverance," Anand recalls. "It was during my time managing our family’s general store that a customer’s request for a water purifier changed my path."
When a customer asked for a water purifier, Anand had no knowledge of the product. His visit to a local shop, where he was met with scorn and dismissal, ignited a spark. He was determined to prove himself and, within six months, founded Pure Water Technologies with a modest initial funding of just ₹5000.
"I felt humiliated, but I turned that experience into motivation," Anand explains. "I vowed to start my own water purifier company, and that's how Pure Water Technologies was born."
Pure Water Technologies quickly distinguished itself in the RO water purification sector. Anand's vision extended beyond conventional business models; he aimed to make a significant social impact. The idea of community RO plants was born out of this vision. By partnering with government departments and NGOs, Pure Water Technologies set up over 3000 RO plants in rural and urban areas, providing clean drinking water to more than 8 million people at a nominal cost of ₹5 for 20 liters.
"In India, over 50% of the population lacks access to clean drinking water," Anand highlights. "We wanted to address this critical issue by ensuring even the most underprivileged communities could access pure water."
The journey was not without its challenges. Financial constraints, manpower shortages, and sourcing water in rural areas were significant hurdles. However, Anand's determination and innovative approach helped overcome these obstacles. Today, Pure Water Technologies offers comprehensive solutions for various sectors, including schools, colleges, hostels, hospitals, homes, villages, and factories.
"Our aim is to provide clean and pure drinking water to everyone, especially the poor and underprivileged," Anand asserts. "This mission sets us apart in the industry."
The impact of Pure Water Technologies has been profound, earning recognition with the Udyog Ratan Award in 2019 and the India Business Award in 2018 for Leading RO Manufacturers. The trust and satisfaction of their clients have been pivotal in the company’s growth, enabling it to establish a pan-India presence.
"Our growth is a direct result of the trust people have placed in us," Anand states. His vision for Pure Water Technologies is clear. He aims to ensure every person in India has access to clean drinking water, believing it to be a fundamental right. The company continues to invest in research and development to stay ahead in the industry, constantly improving their technologies and expanding their reach.
"We believe in doing good for society, and that belief has positively impacted our company," Anand reflects. "The trust of the people is our greatest asset."
In addition to his work with Pure Water Technologies, in 2023, Anand launched “Bubbly” with his three friends into the non-alcoholic beverages industry. This nostalgic brand brings back the beloved "Goli Soda" of the 1980s in modern PET bottles with new flavors, promising more unique ideas in the future.
To aspiring entrepreneurs, Anand offers sage advice: "Get some unique ideas, work on them, execute them, and find the gaps where you can do good for society. Don’t lose hope; you will succeed."
Anand's story is a powerful reminder of how personal challenges can fuel remarkable achievements, transforming not just one's own life but the lives of millions.
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