Kartikey’s life is a story painted with shadows and light. Born into a middle-class family, he was expected to take the safer route of science, but his heart was in art.

In 2010, he joined Mechanical Engineering, stepping into a world of formulas and machines. Life, however, had other plans. Barely before college could begin, he faced cancer—a war that changed everything. It made him see life differently, appreciate each moment of it, and do what was truly important.

Amongst lectures and labs, Kartikey found himself designing, painting, and making murals for college festivals. These works became more than just art—they became his happiness. He felt that though India had incredibly talented artists, there wasn’t a structured platform to help them grow professionally.

What if someone handled the business so artists could focus only on their craft? That vision turned into Paper Plane, a company that creates custom murals, sculptures, AR experiences, and VFX videos that bring imagination to life.

Life tested him again in 2016 when cancer came back with all its might. Four years of treatment stole much of his twenties, yet Kartikey refused to give in. He learned the power of delegation, the strength of a strong team, and how to trust others to be able to drive the vision. Today, Paper Plane stands as a thriving creative platform, amplifying several artists to shine.

In setbacks, rejections, and life-threatening challenges lies Kartikey’s greatest strength—grit—a decades-long persistence that refuses to give up. His story proves that even in the darkest moments, passion, perseverance, and unwavering vision can turn struggle into a masterpiece.

Kartikey not only survived his battles but also transformed them into art, inspiration, and an opportunity for others to soar.