-Chandigarh, December 11:* In 1998, two friends, Dinesh Sood and Kuljinder Sidhu, embarked on their careers with a mere ₹1,000 monthly salary as journalists. Over 25 years, fueled by passion, determination, and an unwavering spirit, they achieved what once seemed like an impossible dream. Through relentless hard work, courage, vision, and creativity, the duo transitioned from journalism to advertising, public relations (PR), event management, and the entertainment industry, ultimately revolutionising the beauty and wellness skill development sector. Today, they stand as the founders of Orane International, a ₹300 crore enterprise that operates hundreds of skill development schools across India and abroad.
*Humble Beginnings and Big Dreams*
In the late 1990s, Dinesh and Kuljinder worked tirelessly as trainee journalists at a local newspaper in Chandigarh. Despite their limited resources and meagre income, they dared to dream big. They often struggled to pay rent and survive on packed meals for days, so they refused to let financial constraints dampen their aspirations.
A year into journalism, they realised their understanding of mass communication could be leveraged beyond reporting. This insight marked the beginning of their entrepreneurial journey.
*The Start of Something Big*
In November 1999, the duo launched an advertising, PR, and event management company in Jalandhar. The early days were fraught with challenges—lack of funding, intense market competition, and the need to believe in their innovative ideas.
Dinesh recalls, “We took risks, constantly challenged ourselves, and learned from every failure. We trusted our vision and worked hard to bring it to life. Dreaming is essential, but turning dreams into reality requires persistent effort.”
Kuljinder adds, “This is an era of opportunities. If you work with honesty and passion in any field, success will follow. The most important things are the willingness to learn and the courage to take risks.”
Their ability to understand customer needs and deliver exceptional services soon brought them success. They secured collaborations with major brands and earned a distinct identity in the market.
*Venturing into Punjabi Cinema*
While excelling in PR, advertising, and event management, their creative streak drove them toward the entertainment industry. From radio and television to Bollywood and Pollywood, their journey included acting, writing, producing, and directing.
In 2008, their debut film ‘Mini Punjab’ featured legendary Punjabi singer Gurdas Maan. Subsequent hits like Sadda Haq (2012) and Yoddha (2014), written by Kuljinder, further established their prowess in filmmaking. Notably, Yoddha won three awards. Kuljinder, who resides in Mumbai, continues to make a mark in Bollywood, with over 15 films to his credit.
*Empowering Women Through Skill-Sets*
In 2004, the duo ventured into the beauty and wellness sector to empower women from small towns, villages, and underprivileged backgrounds through skill development. They founded their first Orane International skill school in Jalandhar.
Today, with a net worth of ₹300 crore, Orane International operates 120 skill training schools across India and two in Canada. Over 100,000 young individuals have been equipped with skills to build sustainable careers. To commemorate 25 years of their professional journey, the organisation has announced scholarships for 8,000 individuals from underprivileged backgrounds, including members of the transgender community.
