Srividhya: A Trailblazing Entrepreneur Redefining Success Through Resilience and Innovation
Srividhya’s life journey exemplifies resilience, ambition, and determination. Born into a middle-class Tamil Brahmin family in Chennai, she was raised by a disciplined schoolteacher father who instilled in her the values of hard work and excellence. She excelled academically, securing top ranks in school and earning a Merit Certificate as a State Rank Holder under the Tamil Nadu Education Board. A government scholarship enabled her to pursue her dream of studying engineering, marking the beginning of a promising career. However, her life was not without its challenges. Losing her mother at an early age left an emotional void, but she found strength in self-affirmation and positive thinking. These practices became crucial in transforming her struggles into stepping stones toward success.
She not only overcame adversity but also built a path of innovation and leadership in her field. In the 1990s, She ventured into the emerging real estate industry in Chennai. At a time when women in construction were virtually unheard of, she designed templates for individual flats and low/mid/high-rise buildings, incorporating Vastu principles. Her innovative approach and determination broke barriers, challenging stereotypes and reshaping perceptions of women’s roles in the construction industry. With her dedication and creative vision, Srividhya quickly gained the trust of clients and promoters. She founded her first professional venture, HITECH Group, in 1998, operating from a room in her home. Despite societal and professional resistance, her perseverance led to the successful execution of numerous projects, earning her the affectionate title “Duplex Vidhya.” Relocating to New Delhi in 2006 marked a significant turning point in her career.
She identified industry needs, such as reducing steel waste on construction sites, and introduced innovative solutions like HITECH Reinforcement Couplers and specialized foundation bolts. These solutions not only reduced costs but also promoted sustainable construction practices. Under her leadership, HITECH Group’s commitment to quality and innovation earned recognition from prestigious organizations such as the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), IITs, and key government bodies like Metro Rail and NHAI. The company now serves a broad clientele across India and South Asia, addressing infrastructure challenges like water seepage, corrosion, and earthquake resistance. Her journey has not been without its difficulties. She faced financial and personal challenges, including the effects of demonetization, GST reforms, and the global COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, her resilience and adaptability ensured that HITECH Group thrived despite these obstacles.
Her leadership prioritized health, safety, and systematic approaches, enabling the company to navigate disruptions effectively. Today, HITECH Group is a certified SSI unit with ISO and OHSAS certifications, renowned for its cost-effective solutions and industry leadership. The company has received several accolades, including honors from the Builders Association of India. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she is a multifaceted individual with diverse interests. She enjoys interior design, blogging, mentoring startups, playing the veena, and sketching. Her personal philosophy revolves around the power of a positive mindset and perseverance. She actively supports aspiring entrepreneurs, urging them to create opportunities rather than wait for them. Her accolades are a testament to her impact and success. Some of her notable awards include the Indian Overseas Bank’s Best Women Entrepreneur Award (2001), Fast Emerging Women Entrepreneur Award (Builders Association of India, 2009), Successful Women Entrepreneur of the Year (IOB, 2001; GIWL, 2023, 2024), and the Asian Excellence Awards (2024). She has also been featured in prominent publications such as Times of India’s Trailblazers of Business Icons, Business Connect, and Corporate Connect. Her message to aspiring entrepreneurs is clear: “Starting a company is a roller coaster of emotions with tremendous highs and challenging lows. The best way to predict the future is to create it. Maintain a positive attitude—it’s a conscious choice and essential for success.” Her journey continues to inspire countless individuals, demonstrating that with perseverance, innovation, and a positive mindset, barriers can be broken, and greatness can be achieved. She stands as a trailblazing entrepreneur and visionary leader, leading by example in every aspect of her life and career.
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