POWERED BY PURPOSE

From a school science project to lighting up remote villages—Gopal Kabra’s journey shows how passion shapes unlikely paths.

- By Amit Shanbaug

Growing up in a small town in Maharashtra, surrounded by farmland and local businesses, the founder of GK Energy, Gopal Kabra did not imagine he would one day work in the solar power industry. But over the years, a mix of curiosity, persistence, and a desire to solve real-world problems gradually pulled him into the world of renewable energy. His story is not one of overnight success or big investments—it is about starting small, staying consistent, and building something with purpose.

“I come from a business and farming background,” he begins. “It is in the blood. My grandfather was into farming in Dharmabad, and my father was a businessman dealing in chana dal and gram flour. My maternal side was into chilli trade. In fact, Dharmabad was once known across India for its chillies.”

This dual heritage—business and agriculture— laid the foundation for his future. But the real turning point came while he was still in school.

SEEDS OF INNOVATION

Gopal’s schooling was entirely in Marathi medium, all the way through graduation. He loved science and geography. “Everyone has their own favourite subjects, and these were mine,” he says. In the 10th standard, he participated in a state-level science competition in Maharashtra, developing a solar-based water evaporation and collection system. It won first prize. That moment was significant.

“It was not just about winning. That was the first spark—solar energy had entered my mind,” he recalls. “It was not a business idea at the time. It was passion, like when a kid looks at a plane and dreams of becoming a pilot.”