An IIT graduate, who previously earned ₹28 lakh per annum, has shared their disillusionment with the Indian startup ecosystem after quitting their job to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. They described the environment as 'deeply broken,' citing gatekeeping and predatory services as major obstacles that hinder aspiring entrepreneurs. Over the past 11 months, the founder invested ₹10-12 lakh in product development and consulting services, which they found largely unhelpful. They emphasized that without strong connections, the chances of success diminish significantly, noting that many individuals lack the safety net they possess. The founder is now considering relocating to a more mature ecosystem, such as Silicon Valley, to enhance their chances of securing funding and continuing their venture. They advised others contemplating the startup path to weigh the risks carefully, suggesting that a stable job may provide better financial security than blindly chasing entrepreneurial dreams.