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Byju's: From EdTech Unicorn to Insolvency Woes - What Went Wrong? Remember when Byju's was the poster child of the Indian startup ecosystem? "Padhai ka superhero," they called it! But fast forward to 2025, and the narrative has taken a dramatic turn. The company is now facing insolvency proceedings, leaving many wondering, "Yeh hua kya?" The Rise and Fall Byju's, once valued at a staggering $22 billion, became synonymous with online education in India. Their innovative approach and celebrity endorsements made them a household name. But beneath the glitz and glamour, troubles were brewing. "Picture abhi baaki hai, mere dost!" The company's aggressive expansion strategy, coupled with hefty marketing spends, started taking a toll. Reports of questionable accounting practices and a lack of transparency further eroded investor confidence. And then came the pandemic hangover. As schools reopened, the demand for online education dwindled, leaving Byju's with a bloated workforce and mounting losses. The Insolvency Saga In 2024, Byju's defaulted on a payment to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), triggering insolvency proceedings. While the company is trying to negotiate a settlement, the future remains uncertain. Lessons Learned Byju's story serves as a cautionary tale for startups. While ambition and innovation are essential, sustainable growth requires a strong foundation, ethical practices, and financial prudence. As they say, "Zyada lalach buri bala hai!" What do you think went wrong with Byju's?