Azhar Iqubal, the co-founder and chairman of Inshorts, has redefined how millions consume news with his innovative 60-word news app. As a judge on Shark Tank India and a celebrated entrepreneur, his journey from a small town in Bihar to building a media empire is nothing short of inspiring.
As of 2025, Azhar Iqubal’s net worth is estimated to be around ₹500 crore (approximately $60 million USD), with some sources suggesting it could be as high as ₹3,700 crore ($450 million USD) based on Inshorts’ valuation. Let’s explore how Azhar built his wealth, his entrepreneurial story, and his impact on India’s startup scene.
Who Is Azhar Iqubal?
Born on October 7, 1992, in Kishanganj, Bihar, Azhar grew up in a lower-middle-class Muslim family. From a young age, he was curious and driven to learn, excelling in school and earning a spot at IIT Delhi in 2009 to study computer science and mathematics. But Azhar wasn’t one to follow the traditional path. In 2012, he dropped out of IIT to chase his entrepreneurial dreams, a bold move that would change his life.
In 2013, alongside his IIT classmates Deepit Purkayastha and Anunay Arunav, Azhar launched a Facebook page called News in Shorts. The idea was simple: deliver news in 60-word snippets for busy people who wanted quick updates. The page gained traction, and by 2015, it evolved into the Inshorts app, a game-changer in digital media. Today, Azhar is not only the chairman of Inshorts but also a mentor to young entrepreneurs on Shark Tank India.
How Did Azhar Iqubal Build His Wealth?
Azhar’s net worth, estimated at ₹500 crore (with some claims up to ₹3,700 crore), comes from his stakes in Inshorts, the Public app, and his growing investment portfolio. Here’s how he built his fortune:
1. Inshorts: The News Revolution
Inshorts, launched as an app in 2015, is Azhar’s biggest wealth driver. With over 10 million downloads by 2015 and nearly 100 million by 2023, it’s one of India’s top news apps. The platform’s revenue comes from advertisements, sponsored content, and native advertising, working with brands like Vodafone, Netflix, and Amazon Prime. Inshorts raised over $119 million (₹990 crore) from investors like Tiger Global and Times Internet, with a valuation of ₹3,700 crore as of October 2023. Azhar’s estimated 30% equity stake in the company is a major contributor to his wealth.
2. Public App: Connecting Communities
In 2019, Azhar co-founded the Public app, a hyperlocal platform for video-based news and community updates. With over 100 million users and ₹300 crore in funding from A91 Partners in 2021, Public has become India’s largest location-based social network. Its revenue from video ads and local business collaborations adds to Azhar’s wealth.
3. Shark Tank India and Investments
Azhar joined Shark Tank India in Season 3, bringing his tech expertise to the panel. He’s invested in startups like Aroleap (₹1 crore for 5% equity), TURMS (₹1.2 crore for 4% equity), and Chefling (₹40 lakh for 16% equity). His investments in high-tech startups like Canvaloop and Reslink, along with speaking engagements at industry events, further boost his income.
The Journey: From Dropout to Digital Pioneer
Azhar’s story is one of grit and innovation. Growing up in Bihar, he faced financial struggles but never let them dim his ambition. At IIT Delhi, he saw a gap in how people consumed news—long articles didn’t suit busy lifestyles. With Deepit and Anunay, he started News in Shorts as a Facebook page in 2013, which quickly grew popular among students and locals. By 2015, the Inshorts app was born, offering a sleek, user-friendly interface and personalized news powered by algorithms.
Despite dropping out of IIT, Azhar’s tech skills and vision attracted big investors. Inshorts’ growth exploded, earning Azhar spots on Forbes India’s “30 Under 30” (2017) and Fortune India’s “40 Under 40” (2016). He also received the BusinessWorld Young Entrepreneur Award and the IIT Delhi Alumni Award for Entrepreneurship.
Azhar on Shark Tank India: Inspiring the Next Generation
As a Shark Tank India judge, Azhar emphasizes hunger, discipline, and focus over degrees or backgrounds. “Your background doesn’t matter; what matters is your drive,” he said in a statement. His investments focus on startups solving real-world problems, like sustainable products and personalized education. Fans love his confident yet relatable style, often speaking in Hindi to connect with entrepreneurs. His role on Seasons 3 and 4 has made him a role model for young dreamers, especially from small towns.
A Glimpse Into Azhar’s Life
Azhar, now 33, keeps his personal life private. He’s unmarried, loves driving, and enjoys road trips with friends. His car collection includes a Porsche 718 Boxster (worth ₹1.52 crore), reflecting his taste for luxury and speed. Based in Delhi, Azhar stays grounded despite his success, focusing on innovation and mentorship.
What’s Next for Azhar Iqubal?
Azhar’s vision for Inshorts includes expanding into regional languages and global markets. The Public app is also growing, aiming to connect more local communities. With Shark Tank India Season 4 underway, Azhar continues to invest in and mentor startups, shaping India’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. His net worth is likely to climb as Inshorts and Public scale further, cementing his status as a digital media titan.
Also Read:- Amit Jain’s Net Worth
Wrapping Up
Azhar Iqubal’s net worth of ₹500 crore (or potentially ₹3,700 crore) is a testament to his bold ideas and relentless drive. From dropping out of IIT to building Inshorts and Public, he’s transformed how we consume news and connect with communities. As a Shark Tank India judge, he’s inspiring millions to chase their dreams, proving that with focus and innovation, anything is possible. Azhar’s story is a reminder that success isn’t about where you start—it’s about where you’re determined to go.