From Humble Beginnings To Towering Achievements
Ankush B. Asabe
CHAIRMAN & MANAGING DIRECTOR
VENKATESH BUILDCON
As I reflect on my 25-year journey in the Real Estate industry, I am reminded of the small village of Solapur where my aspirations first took root.
From humble beginnings to becoming a significant player in Pune’s Real Estate market, my journey has been defined by determination, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
My tryst with the world of Real Estate began long before I stepped into the corridors of Civil Engineering.
The ambition to delve into the realm of construction and development had already taken root during my high school years.
Armed with this determination, I pursued a diploma in Civil Engineering, laying the foundation for what would become a lifelong passion.
Following my graduation, I embarked on a five-year stint with a renowned builder in Mumbai, absorbing invaluable insights into the intricacies of the industry.
Yet, my thirst for knowledge and understanding led me to explore the role of a contractor for three years, honing my skills and broadening my perspective.
In 1994, I made the pivotal decision to set foot in Pune, drawn by its dynamic business landscape and promising opportunities.
While initially, I chose to immerse myself in the corporate realm for a year, it wasn’t long before I returned to my roots as a contractor, paving the way for the eventual launch of my first project in 2000 at Katraj-Ambegaon, marking the inception of a new chapter in my journey.
Throughout these years, the spectre of failure never loomed over me, a testament to my unwavering self-belief and relentless drive for excellence.
Instead of seeking inspiration from external sources, I found motivation within myself, constantly striving for self-improvement and growth in every endeavor I undertook.
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for the Real Estate sector, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the market.
However, steadfast in my resolve, I refused to succumb to pessimism, seizing the opportunity to make bold investments, such as acquiring a plot of CDSS (Cummins Diesel sales & Services) in Erandwane, Pune during the peak of the crisis and launching Venkatesh Erandwane Central.
While each project marked a milestone in my journey, the Venkatesh Lake Vista project holds a special place in my heart.
It was an entrepreneurial leap as my inaugural solo venture in 2010. Completing the project on time and witnessing its success remains etched in my memory, reaffirming my belief in the power of determination and hard work, setting a precedent for timely delivery and unparalleled quality.
Reflecting on my experiences, if I were to offer advice to my younger self, it would be to embrace well-informed decisions and embrace risks without fear.
The journey of an entrepreneur is fraught with uncertainties, but it is through calculated risks that one paves the path to success.
The advent of RERA ushered in a new era for the Real Estate sector, heralding transparency and accountability.
For me, it was a validation of the ethos I upheld in my business practices.
While some faltered, unable to meet the stringent regulations, I embraced RERA wholeheartedly, recognizing its role in cleansing the industry of malpractices and increasing transparency for customers.
Pune’s Real Estate market stands as a testament to its burgeoning potential, fueled by the influx of both domestic and international investors.
With a thriving commercial sector and a growing demand for residential spaces, Pune has emerged as a beacon of opportunity for aspiring homeowners and investors alike.
As I impart my wisdom to the younger generation entering the industry, I emphasize three non-negotiable mantras: dream big, aim for excellence, and above all, embrace hard work.
These principles have been the cornerstone of my journey, guiding me through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.
To first-time buyers, I offer a simple yet crucial piece of advice: look beyond the property and scrutinize the brand behind it.
Ensure that the builder is reputable, and assess the accessibility of essential amenities and facilities.
Adopt a futuristic outlook, envisioning the potential for growth and development in the surrounding area.
In closing, my journey epitomizes the essence of determination.
From the streets of Solapur to the skyline of Pune, every obstacle has been a stepping stone, propelling me closer to my dreams.
As I continue to chart new territories and push the boundaries of success, I am reminded that the true essence of fulfillment lies in the journey itself.
THE NEXT TYCOON
As a director at Venkatesh Buildcon, Piyusha, a second-gen entrepreneur at Venkatesh Buildcon, drives strategic development aligning with long-term goals. Her key role is to foster innovation, lead dynamic teams, implement processes, and capitalize on market opportunities for success.
