- Vardhman Jain, co-founder of Drickle, shared a candid post on X about the
- He warned aspiring entrepreneurs to develop a thick skin and ensure strong financial backing before facing the mental and emotional toll of the business.
- Despite these challenges, the Bengaluru-based brand is growing steadily, recently securing INR 6 crore in seed funding to expand its fo
Vardhman Jain, co-founder of the Bengaluru-based coffee brand Drickle, recently took to X to share the raw realities of scaling a startup in the competitive Indian market. Reflecting on the past five years, Jain described the experience as "the most gruelling thing" he has ever done, both mentally and financially.
Building 'Thick Skin' and Letting Go
Describing the journey, Jain explained how a startup forces one to develop a "thick skin" and offered advice to budding entrepreneurs.
“I'm about to complete five years of building or trying to build a coffee business in India. This has been the most gruelling things I've done, both mentally and financially. You develop a thick skin for bullshit, let go of your ego, learn to accept rejection (and people tearing your product apart), and eventually become emotionally detached, treating it as what it is: a business," he posted.
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He further cautioned that passion alone isn't enough. "I wouldn't advise anyone to start a business unless you have strong financial backing, aren't overly attached to your product, and can let go of your biases. It's a long, lonely journey; think deeply before you sign up," he said.
Growth and Funding
I'm about to complete 5 years of building or trying to build a coffee business in India.
— Vardhman Jain (@lightroastguy) March 3, 2026
This has been the most gruelling thing I've done, both mentally and financially. Building a business changes you year after year. You develop a thick skin for bullshit, let go of your ego,…
Founded by Rahul Nijhawan and Vardhman Jain, Drickle has carved a niche by focusing on affordable, and flavour-led beverages. The brand recently signaled its momentum by raising Rs 6 crore in seed funding in January.
The brand will use the funds to open more shops in Bengaluru, adding to its existing seven outlets that sell trendy drinks like matcha and boba.
Post resonates with start-ups
The post resonated deeply with the startup community, with many netizens praising Jain for his transparency regarding the "un-glamorous" side of the business.
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One user replied, "Respect this honesty. Most people see the café; they don't see the cash flow sheet. They see the brand; they don't see the burn.”
Another wrote, "Five years of beans and tears. Respect to a true coffee business builder. Where are you guys located? Would love to try the coffee.”
Another user added, "Like they say, 'Cash in the bank decides how long you get to be wrong.' Also, happy half-decade, bro!"
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