Deep Kalra, the founder of MakeMyTrip, is a successful entrepreneur in India’s online travel industry. He earned a bachelor’s degree from St Stephen’s College in Delhi in 1992 and an MBA degree from the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM Ahmedabad). After completing his MBA, he worked for companies like GE Capital and ABN AMRO Bank.
In 1995, Deep took a major risk by leaving his secure and well-paying job at ABN Bank to work for MF Bowling, an American corporation. This company was planning to enter the Indian market and Deep was successful in opening over 200 lanes for them. However, he realized that he was not making the best use of his skills and decided to try something different.
Deep noticed that the internet was rapidly growing and saw potential in the online travel industry. He resigned from his job and started brainstorming ideas for his own business. Along with co-founders Keyur Joshi, Rajesh Magow, and Sachin Bhatia, he created MakeMyTrip, a website that aimed to eliminate expensive travel agents and make travel planning more efficient.
To fund his venture, Deep secured $2 million in funding from eVentures. With this financial support, MakeMyTrip was able to streamline the travel and vacation planning industry, offering travelers more affordable options.
Deep Kalra’s success in the online travel industry has been recognized by various organizations. He is currently a Charter Member of TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs) and serves on the board of TiE, New Delhi. He is also a member of the CII’s Tourism Subcommittee and frequently speaks at internet and travel conferences across the world.
Overall, Deep Kalra’s journey from leaving a secure job to founding MakeMyTrip showcases his entrepreneurial spirit and vision for the potential of the online travel industry in India. His success story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and highlights the opportunities that can arise from taking calculated risks in pursuit of one’s passion.