IITian couldn't afford Bengaluru rent even after raising Rs 120 crore. Reason: Not rent price or landlord

Time of India

01-05-2025

What netizens said
In 2019, despite securing ₹120 crore in Series A funding for OkCredit , Harsh Pokharna—founder and CEO, and an IIT Kanpur graduate—was still broke. He had no savings, lived paycheck to paycheck, and worried about rent in Bangalore. His story isn't unique. Many startup founders raise crores but continue to live like struggling students, constantly anxious about basic survival, the IITian said in a LinkedIn post.The reason behind this paradox is systemic, he said. Venture capitalists often prefer founders to remain financially strained as a founder with no money is easier to control—more likely to comply, stay hungry, and stick to the investor's script, Harsh Pokharna said.In contrast, financial stability gives a founder the confidence to say no, the freedom to walk away, and the power to build on their own terms, he said, adding that independence can feel threatening to those who want influence over every move.When a founder dares to ask for modest personal liquidity—perhaps to pay off debt or gain breathing space—they're met with resistance, he said. The narrative is that personal wealth might dull their drive. Ironically, the same investors willingly fund serial entrepreneurs who are already financially comfortable, owning beach houses and retirement portfolios, Harsh Pokharna said.This contradiction, he said, highlights a deeper truth: ambition isn't killed by money—it's often strengthened by stability. Founders who aren't consumed by survival can think more clearly, take bolder risks, and build fearlessly.The startup world romanticizes sacrifice, but it shouldn't glorify financial insecurity, he said. Founders deserve the right to chase their vision and secure their well-being. Money doesn't make them weak—it makes them unafraid, he added.Netizens strongly resonated with Harsh Pokharna's candid post about the harsh realities founders face despite raising large amounts of funding. Many acknowledged how startup success often masks the personal financial struggles entrepreneurs endure.Several users emphasized that financial freedom is essential—not a luxury—for fearless innovation and sustainable growth. One comment highlighted the stigma around founders taking a fair salary, criticizing the pressure VCs place on how much they should earn.Others praised Harsh for shedding light on a rarely discussed issue and thanked him for being a source of inspiration during tough entrepreneurial journeys. Some users shared their own struggles as founders, relating deeply to the emotional and financial toll of building a startup while barely making ends meet.The conversation also sparked questions about when to approach VCs and how early-stage investments are shaping founder expectations. Overall, the post opened up an important dialogue around founder well-being and financial autonomy.