Bhubaneswar:  A young Odia entrepreneur Bijan Barik was recently laurelled Odisha Tycoon Award for his entrepreneurial achievements through his businesses that include fitness gym chain, restaurants, real estate and IT services.

The young entrepreneur received the award from Odisha Assembly Speaker Surya Narayan Patro, actor Akash Das Nayak and Bhubaneswar Mayor Sulochana Das at a ceremony attended by the business community of Odisha.

Coming from a humble background, Bijan started his entrepreneurial journey with a paltry sum of money. As a first generation entrepreneur, he had no financial backup or family business as reference. However, with sheer hard work, dedication and vision he achieved landmark successes.

Bijan set up what is said to be ‘eastern India’s largest warehouse gym’ in Bhubaneswar’s Infocity area. Talking about his achievement, he said, “Awards and recognition are validations that I am on the right path to achieve success. This award means a lot to me and will encourage me to work harder and keep moving towards the next milestone. Journey as an entrepreneur is always tough and lonely but with patience a lot can be achieved.”

On being asked about the changing scenario of businesses in Odisha, Bijan said that the state has made tremendous progress as far as conducive scenario for setting up of business is concerned.

“It has given opportunities to young generation of entrepreneurs like me to dream big and follow it. A lot more needs to done to make Odisha a leading state in country for business. With help of our efficient state government, we are definitely going to achieve it,” he added.