An Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) graduate has sparked a debate online after sharing his challenging experience of leaving a lucrative ₹28 lakh per annum job to pursue a startup. In a Reddit post, he described the Indian startup ecosystem as 'deeply broken,' emphasizing that it often prioritizes connections over merit and innovation. Over nearly a year, he spent approximately ₹10-12 lakh (roughly $12,000 to $14,500 USD) on product development, employee salaries, and fundraising efforts, only to receive vague promises and unproductive networking opportunities in return. He noted that founders without strong venture capital connections face significant hurdles in securing funding. The graduate, while acknowledging his educational background provides a safety net, cautioned that many aspiring entrepreneurs may find the journey financially and mentally taxing. He suggested that pursuing a stable job might be a more prudent choice for many in India, as it offers financial security. Despite his setbacks, he remains committed to entrepreneurship but plans to seek opportunities in more mature ecosystems like Silicon Valley, where he believes innovation is better respected and supported.