Hailing from a destitute background in a small Karnataka town, Thanedar experienced the hardships of life at an early stage.
Shri Thanedar, a US politician of Indian origin, exemplifies the ‘American Dream’. For the numerous Indians who arrive in the USA each year, seeking to enhance their lives, Thanedar serves as an inspiration.
Emerging from poverty in a small Karnataka town, Thanedar encountered life’s challenges at a young age. He and his five siblings faced difficult times during their upbringing in Belgaum, after their father, a government employee, retired at the age of 55.
At the age of 14, Shri had to take up odd jobs to support his family. Education provided the only escape, and Shri pursued a Bachelor’s degree from Karnatak University, followed by a Master’s degree from the University of Mumbai. Subsequently, he worked as a scientist at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) before pursuing a PhD in the United States.
Thanedar embarked on his career in 1984. He acquired his first company in 1991 by securing a $75,000 loan. Gradually, he expanded his business empire through several additional acquisitions. Within just 5 years, one of Thanedar’s companies, Azopharma, soared from $1 million to $55 million.
However, Thanedar faced another setback when the US plunged into recession. He chose to retire from the business world in 2010. However, his retirement was short-lived, as he made a successful comeback by launching Avomeen. The company achieved significant success and emerged as one of the fastest-growing firms.
In 2018, Thanedar entered the political arena, running for the position of governor of Michigan. Despite spending the highest amount of money, he was unsuccessful. In 2021, he secured a seat in the Michigan House of Representatives as a Democrat.
