Niranjan Thakur: A Journey of Resilience & Self-Made Success
Niranjan Thakur, a self-made entrepreneur and educator, is the founder of Entrance Academy, whose journey exemplifies resilience, determination, and hard work. From assisting his father in a small salon during his childhood to founding Entrance Academy, a premier coaching institute in Kolkata, his story is one of perseverance against all odds. Despite facing financial hardships and emotional struggles, he pursued education with unwavering dedication, initially aiming for the UPSC but later shifting his focus to teaching. Through his visionary approach, Niranjan has transformed the lives of countless students, proving that success is not just about talent but about persistence and the courage to forge one’s own path.
Early Life and Responsibilities
Born into a modest family, Niranjan Thakur grew up witnessing the relentless hard work of his father. His father ran a salon, and even though life was far from easy, the family sustained themselves through honest labor. However, fate had different plans, as his father’s health began deteriorating, placing a heavy emotional and financial burden on the family.
From as early as Class 6, Niranjan found himself assisting his father at the salon. He juggled school and work, managing responsibilities beyond his years. While most children of his age enjoyed their carefree childhood, Niranjan had to mature quickly. As the youngest sibling, he realized that he had to stand on his own and take up a leadership role within the family.
It was during these formative years that Niranjan understood an essential lesson—if he wanted to secure a better future for himself and his family, he had to work for it. There was no shortcut to success, only the path of relentless effort and smart decision-making.
Academic Journey and UPSC Aspirations
Despite his early responsibilities, Niranjan never lost sight of the importance of education. After completing his schooling, he pursued a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Physics from Ashutosh College under Calcutta University. His initial aspiration was to become a marine engineer, drawn by the promise of a lucrative salary and a balanced work-life structure. However, a turning point came when his mathematics teacher, Sunil Sir, inspired him to think beyond financial stability and dream bigger. This motivation led him to set his sights on the Indian Administrative Services (IAS).
To prepare for the prestigious UPSC examination, Niranjan made a strategic decision—choosing a BSc over a BTech degree to save time for focused preparation. In 2019, he moved to Delhi, the epicenter of UPSC coaching, with the hope of realizing his dream.
However, life had more challenges in store. Delhi’s climate did not suit him, leading to frequent illnesses that hampered his studies. Despite these difficulties, Niranjan’s time in Delhi was transformative. His logical thinking skills sharpened, and he developed a deeper sense of empathy and leadership. His belief that UPSC preparation should not just be about clearing an exam but about becoming a better human being solidified during this period.
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, disrupting his studies and forcing him to return home. Undeterred, he appeared for the UPSC exam but was unable to clear it. He attempted a second time with renewed vigor but met the same fate. The realization soon dawned upon him—UPSC required full-time dedication, which clashed with his financial responsibilities. This forced him to make one of the most heart-wrenching decisions of his life: to quit UPSC preparation. It was a moment filled with disappointment and tears, yet he refused to let failure define him.
Building a Career in Education
Determined to secure financial independence, Niranjan turned his attention toward education. He took a bold step—printing leaflets and personally distributing them to promote his private tutoring services. The initial phase was fraught with rejection and humiliation, but he persevered. Slowly but surely, he began to secure students, earning just enough to sustain himself.
As his tutoring career picked up, he saw an opportunity to help others. He started connecting students with teachers and taking a commission for the first month’s fees. This small initiative planted the seeds of an entrepreneurial mindset within him.
After a year, Niranjan envisioned something bigger—a coaching institute that could provide structured and quality education to students. However, he faced a major hurdle: the lack of funds to rent a proper classroom. Not one to be deterred by obstacles, he took a daring step and started Entrance Academy in his own rented room, even though he had always believed in keeping his personal and professional spaces separate.
With just a bench, a desk, and a whiteboard, Entrance Academy was born. Over time, through sheer hard work and an unwavering commitment to excellence, the academy grew into a premier coaching institute in Jadavpur, Kolkata. Today, it boasts:
- Three classrooms equipped with modern digital boards for interactive learning.
- Air-conditioned facilities, ensuring a comfortable learning experience for students.
- Two administrative offices to streamline operations.
- A team of expert faculty dedicated to helping students excel in school/board exams (Class 6th to 12th), JEE, and NEET.
- A thriving student community that benefits from structured learning and personalized mentorship.
Niranjan himself teaches Physics at Entrance Academy, bringing his deep expertise and passion into every lecture. More than just preparing students for exams, his mission is to instill a love for learning and conceptual clarity that lasts a lifetime.
Personal Struggles and Relationships
Behind every success story lies a series of personal struggles, and Niranjan Thakur’s journey was no exception. His school life revolved entirely around academics, leaving little room for friendships or relationships. At times, this single-minded focus led to emotional turmoil and heartbreak.
College life presented its own set of challenges. Living in an unhealthy environment affected his mental and physical well-being. Eventually, he made a tough choice—to cut down on food expenses so he could afford a better-paying guest (PG) accommodation. Sacrifices like these became stepping stones in his journey toward success.
Amidst life’s uncertainties, one constant source of support and love was Dipa Ruth Halder. She had silently admired him since their school days, harboring feelings that Niranjan only realized much later. Their love story was not without hurdles, as they had to overcome familial and many hurdles. But love triumphed, and on December 30, 2024, Niranjan and Dipa tied the knot, marking a new chapter in his life.
A Legacy in the Making
Niranjan Thakur’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and self-made success. From helping his father in a small salon to establishing a renowned coaching institute, his journey reflects his unwavering belief in hard work and perseverance. His struggles molded him into a mentor, leader, and role model for aspiring students.
Yet, his journey is far from over. As he continues to expand Entrance Academy, new aspirations and challenges lie ahead. Whether in education, mentorship, or entrepreneurship, Niranjan remains dedicated to making a lasting impact.
His story serves as an inspiration to countless individuals who face hardships and self-doubt. Through his journey, he has shown that success is not about where you start but about how you persevere against all odds.
Follow Niranjan Thakur’s Journey
For more insights into his journey and educational initiatives, follow him on social media:
- Instagram: @niranjan_thakur
- Facebook: Niranjan Thakur’s Page
- Twitter: @niranjan2552
As he continues to build his legacy, one thing is certain—this is just the beginning of an incredible journey. Niranjan Thakur is a name that will inspire generations to come.
