This week the trailer of Rajkummar Rao’s next film ‘Srikanth – Aa Raha Hai Sabki Aankhein Kholne’ was released online, creating a lot of buzz for cinema lovers. The 39-year-old actor stars as Srikanth Bolla, a visually handicapped businessman whose amazing life story is told in the film by director Tushar Hiranandani. Jyothika Saravanan and Alaya F also play pivotal parts in the film.
The creators of ‘Srikanth’ emphasise how he overcame obstacles in his early life and career to become one of the most influential figures in recent history. Srikanth Bolla’s life story is a testament to resilience and determination. Let’s get to know more about him.
Who is Srikanth Bolla?
Srikanth was born into a farming family in 1991 in Machilipatnam, Andhra Pradesh. He has been visually impaired since birth.
Srikanth planned to take science after finishing the 10th grade, but he was not permitted to take the subject because of being visually impaired. Following this, Srikanth took legal action; he had to wait six months before he could be granted permission to study science. He scored 98% in class 12 board examinations.
Later, Bolla was refused admission to IIT-JEE coaching. Nevertheless, his determination made him become the first blind student from outside the United States to enroll in the Management Science programme at the renowned Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Srikanth Bolla’s Career
Srikanth Bolla returned to India in 2012, rejecting attractive job offers overseas. He founded Bollant Industries, offering a Braille printing machine to aid children with disabilities. Under Bolla’s guidance, the company grew rapidly while providing job possibilities to those with disabilities. It specialises in making areca-based goods. Ratan Tata also provided financial support to Bolla.
Additionally, he is a director of Surge Impact Foundation, an initiative to achieve Sustainable Development Goals in India by 2030. He was included in Forbes’ 30 under 30 list in 2017 for his commitment to making a positive social impact.
Srikanth Bolla’s Wife
In 2022, Srikanth and Veera Swathi got married. They are proud parents of a baby girl.
Srikanth Bolla’s Emotional Tribute To Gulshan Kumar
During the trailer launch of ‘Srikanth’, Srikanth became emotional as he reminisced about the late Gulshan Kumar’s role in his life. He fondly recalled how Gulshan Kumar’s T-Series audio cassettes became his lifeline during his formative years. From class 5 to class 10, Srikanth relied on these cassettes, listening to them repeatedly.
Meanwhile, Rajkummar Rao starrer ‘Srikanth’ will hit the theatres on May 10, 2024.