“Success isn’t about where you begin it's about the determination to keep moving forward despite every obstacle.”
INTRODUCTION
Sagar Dubey’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a trailblazer in India’s public relations industry is a story of perseverance, resilience, and self-made success. Born and raised in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Sagar’s life exemplifies how determination and hard work can overcome even the most daunting challenges. His evolution from a young boy supporting his family by selling biscuits on the streets to co-owning IMPR—one of India’s leading regional PR firms—stands as a testament to the power of vision and grit.
Growing up in a financially constrained household, Sagar’s early life was shaped by hardship. His father, late Arun Dubey, worked as a laborer at Tata Steel, while his mother, Archana Dubey, became a pivotal figure in the family’s survival and eventual rise. Despite societal prejudices and the economic struggles that marked their daily lives, Sagar’s mother ensured that her children understood the importance of honesty, integrity, and perseverance. Her decision to join a PR agency during challenging times would unknowingly sow the seeds for Sagar’s future career.
Sagar’s responsibilities began at an early age. By the time he was 13, he was contributing to the family’s income by working at a mobile shop and later as an office boy. These formative experiences taught him invaluable lessons about responsibility, problem-solving, and the value of hard work. However, life took a dramatic turn when his father was diagnosed with cancer in 2009. With mounting medical expenses and the loss of his father’s job, the family faced severe financial challenges. Against all odds, they managed to secure treatment, but the loss of his father in 2012 left an indelible mark on Sagar’s life.
Despite these hardships, Sagar never lost sight of his desire to build a better life for his family. Balancing work and studies, he completed his BBA through distance education and later pursued an MBA. His thirst for knowledge and drive for success led him to explore opportunities in the PR field, where he found his true calling. Inspired by his mother’s initial work in PR, Sagar developed a deep understanding of the industry’s nuances and challenges.
Sagar’s entry into the PR industry was marked by relentless learning and adaptation. He began by assisting his mother with media contacts and office work, gradually mastering the art of client management and crisis communication. His breakthrough came in 2009 when he joined PR27, a prominent agency where he honed his skills in media relations and strategic communication. The lessons learned during this period became the bedrock of his professional philosophy: building trust, maintaining transparency, and delivering exceptional results.
Over time, Sagar’s reputation as a reliable and innovative PR professional grew. He navigated the complexities of the industry with finesse, handling high-profile campaigns for political figures, corporate clients, and media houses. His ability to manage crises and craft compelling narratives for clients set him apart from his peers. Despite facing numerous setbacks—including delayed payments and broken trust—Sagar’s unwavering honesty and commitment to his clients earned him respect and loyalty.
“Success is not measured by the heights we reach, but by the depths we overcome. It is the courage to keep moving forward, despite the odds, that defines our true potential.”
Phase 1 : Childhood & Early Struggles
Sagar Dubey’s journey is rooted in humble beginnings, shaped by a childhood marked by challenges and resilience. Born and raised in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Sagar grew up in a lower-income household where financial struggles were a constant reality. His father, late Arun Dubey, was a laborer at Tata Steel, and his mother, Archana Dubey, emerged as the guiding force who instilled in Sagar the values of perseverance, hard work, and integrity.
Despite the difficult circumstances, Sagar recalls his childhood fondly, acknowledging that the hardships he faced played a crucial role in shaping his character. The family’s economic condition meant that luxuries were far out of reach, and even basic necessities required careful management. “We had to find joy in the simplest things,” Sagar reflects. “Those early years taught me the importance of making the most of what you have and never taking anything for granted”.
From a young age, Sagar understood the weight of responsibility. By the age of 13, he was already contributing to the family’s income by taking up small jobs. His first role was at a local mobile shop, where he assisted with various tasks, learning the basics of customer service and problem-solving. This early exposure to work cultivated a sense of discipline and adaptability that would later prove invaluable in his professional journey.
A pivotal influence during this period was Sagar’s mother, Archana Dubey. Her resilience in the face of adversity became a source of inspiration for Sagar. When she secured a job at a PR agency, it marked a turning point for the family. “My mother’s strength and determination were incredible,” Sagar says. “She not only managed to support us financially but also opened my eyes to the world of public relations.”
“In the darkest moments, we discover the strength within us to rise, rebuild, and redefine our future. Success is born not from comfort, but from the grit to persevere when the world seems against us.”
Phase 2 : Education and Professional Beginnings
Sagar Dubey’s entry into the world of public relations was both unexpected and transformative. Despite his humble beginnings and the hardships he faced, Sagar’s determination to build a better future for himself and his family fueled his journey into the PR industry. With a strong work ethic, adaptability, and an innate ability to build relationships, he laid the foundation for a career that would later see him become a trusted name in the industry.
In 2006, while still grappling with the financial challenges that plagued his family, Sagar found himself assisting his mother, Archana Dubey, who had recently secured a job in a PR agency. Initially, Sagar’s involvement was limited to small tasks—helping with office work, organizing media contacts, and learning the ropes of communication management. However, these seemingly minor responsibilities planted the seeds for what would become a lifelong passion.
“I didn’t know much about PR back then,” Sagar recalls. “But watching my mother navigate this new world made me curious. I wanted to understand how things worked and how communication played such a powerful role in shaping perceptions.”
Sagar’s natural curiosity and willingness to learn did not go unnoticed. His mother, recognizing his potential, began mentoring him and introducing him to the intricacies of media relations. It was during this time that Sagar developed a keen understanding of the importance of maintaining strong relationships with clients and media personnel. He quickly realized that PR was not just about disseminating information but about building trust and managing perceptions.
By 2009, Sagar had officially stepped into the PR industry, joining PR27, a prominent agency where he was given the opportunity to handle more significant responsibilities. This role proved to be a turning point in his career, as he learned the foundational elements of public relations—from drafting press releases and managing client communications to handling crisis situations. “PR27 was my training ground,” Sagar says. “It was where I learned the nuts and bolts of the industry and understood what it truly meant to be a PR professional.”
However, Sagar’s journey was not without its challenges. As a young professional in a competitive industry, he often faced skepticism from clients and colleagues alike. “There were times when people doubted my capabilities because of my age and background,” he shares. “But I let my work speak for itself. Delivering results consistently helped me earn their trust and respect”.
Despite these obstacles, Sagar’s reputation as a reliable and effective PR professional grew. His ability to craft compelling narratives, manage crises, and maintain strong client relationships set him apart from his peers. Over time, he became a go-to consultant for media campaigns, political PR, and corporate projects.
“True influence is not just about personal success, but about reshaping industries, inspiring others, and leaving a legacy built on integrity and perseverance.”
Phase 3 : Challenges & Obstacles in the Journey of Sagar Dubey
Sagar Dubey’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a well-established Public Relations (PR) professional is nothing short of inspiring. His path was not paved with privileges; instead, he had to navigate a life filled with struggles, setbacks, and moments of deep uncertainty. His story is a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the sheer will to turn hardships into stepping stones toward success.
Born into a lower-middle-class family in Indore, Sagar Dubey's early years were marked by financial constraints. His father worked as a laborer at Tata Steel, and the family’s income barely sufficed to make ends meet. The burden of financial instability weighed heavily on him from a young age, forcing him to step into the working world at just 13 years old. His first job was at a mobile shop, followed by working as an office boy. The harsh realities of life did not allow him the luxury of a carefree childhood, yet he never let circumstances define his future.
The biggest challenge at this stage was balancing education with work. School fees became an unaffordable luxury, leading him to drop out early. Yet, rather than allowing this setback to deter him, he took on multiple jobs and kept learning from the world around him. His hunger to rise above his situation was relentless, and he knew that his only way forward was through persistence.
Sagar’s entry into the PR industry was not a well-planned career move but rather a twist of fate. His mother’s association with a media team introduced him to the world of public relations. At that time, PR was a largely misunderstood field, and few recognized its importance. However, Sagar saw potential in this industry and took his first step in 2006-07 when his mother joined a PR agency in Indore’s tourism department.
Starting from the bottom, he learned the ropes of PR, working at PR27 from 2007 to 2009. He absorbed every detail, from handling clients to media coordination, yet he faced numerous hurdles. One of the biggest challenges was gaining credibility in an industry that was not widely recognized in his region. At a young age, convincing high-profile clients to trust him with their public image was an uphill battle. Many doubted his expertise, and securing projects was not easy.
One of the most persistent challenges Sagar encountered was the vast difference in professionalism between regional and national PR firms. He noticed that while national-level firms were highly structured and professional, regional PR was still in its infancy, often lacking in skilled personnel and strategic execution.
Bridging this gap required him to build strong communication skills, earn the trust of clients, and consistently deliver results. He had to prove himself repeatedly, and even today, he acknowledges that communication barriers remain a challenge. When working with large corporations like Tata Motors or Samsung, presenting his ideas to senior executives was intimidating. The fear of not being understood or accepted often loomed over him, but he tackled it head-on by refining his approach and continuously improving his skills.
Trust is the foundation of the PR industry, and Sagar learned this the hard way. One of his toughest experiences came in 2013 when he worked with a PR agency in Delhi. Despite his dedication, the company failed to pay him for his work, leaving him in financial distress. The dues from 2013 remained unpaid for nearly a decade, only getting settled in 2022 when a client intervened.
If financial struggles and professional hurdles were not enough, life dealt him a personal blow when his father was diagnosed with cancer in 2009. The family had no savings to afford treatment, and the next three years were marked by a desperate struggle to arrange funds.
Despite his best efforts, his father passed away in 2012. At just 19 years old, Sagar suddenly found himself as the pillar of his family. The weight of responsibilities increased, and there was no room for emotional breakdowns. Instead of succumbing to grief, he channeled his pain into relentless hard work, determined to secure a stable future for his family.
Despite the hardships, Sagar pushed forward. By 2014, he secured a breakthrough when he began handling PR for Walmart’s Madhya Pradesh operations. However, when Walmart’s partnership with Bharti Group ended, he lost the contract. Not one to accept defeat, he reached out to Weber Shandwick, an international PR agency, and convinced them to give him a chance. This bold move paid off, leading to long-term collaborations and further expansion of his professional network.
Today, Sagar Dubey is a recognized name in the PR industry, handling clients like Tata Motors, Samsung, Amazon, BMW, Colors TV, and more. His ability to build trust and maintain long-term relationships with clients has been the cornerstone of his success
Lessons and Message for Aspiring Professionals Looking back, Sagar’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, self-belief, and hard work. He wants young professionals to understand that success does not come overnight.
Sagar Dubey’s story is not just about overcoming financial struggles or building a business—it is about turning every obstacle into an opportunity. His life stands as an example that no matter where you come from, with the right mindset, perseverance, and unwavering integrity, success is within reach.
“I was never given a path—I built it. Every rejection, every betrayal, and every loss became a brick in my foundation. Success isn’t about avoiding failure; it’s about bleeding for your dreams and still standing tall. No one is coming to save you. You either fight for your future, or you accept the life given to you.”
Phase 4 : Turning points and milestones
Success is not a straight road; it is a path filled with challenges, defining moments, and turning points that shape a person’s destiny. For Sagar Dubey, the journey from a struggling teenager in Indore to a renowned name in the Public Relations (PR) industry has been marked by relentless perseverance, bold decisions, and strategic milestones. Each step in his life was a pivot, a lesson, and a stepping stone toward his ultimate goal. Born into a financially struggling family, Sagar’s childhood was far from easy. The responsibility to contribute to his family came early, pushing him to take his first job at just 13 years old. Working at a mobile shop was not a career move, but a necessity. However, this phase planted the seed of resilience in him, teaching him the value of work, communication, and adaptability. This first step into the working world was a crucial turning point—one that would define his hunger for success.
The defining moment in Sagar’s career came when his mother joined a PR agency. Public Relations was an unfamiliar world, but curiosity led him to explore it. He started working at PR27, an agency in Indore, and quickly realized that PR was not just about marketing; it was about strategy, trust, and influence. From learning the basics of media relations to handling clients, he absorbed every aspect of the industry. This period was his foundation, the moment he unknowingly stepped into a career that would shape his future.
Life tested Sagar in the most painful way when his father was diagnosed with cancer in 2009. With no financial stability, the struggle for treatment was overwhelming. For three years, he juggled work and family responsibilities, doing everything in his power to gather funds. However, in 2012, his father passed away, leaving behind not just grief but a greater sense of duty. At 19 years old, he became the backbone of his family. This personal loss became the fire that fueled his ambitions—he had no choice but to succeed.
One of the biggest milestones in Sagar’s career came in 2014, when he secured Walmart as a client. Handling Walmart’s PR for Madhya Pradesh was a massive opportunity, elevating him to a new level of recognition. But the journey took a sharp turn when Walmart ended its partnership with Bharti Group, leading to a loss of contract. Instead of accepting defeat, Sagar reached out to Weber Shandwick, an international PR agency, and convinced them to bring him on board. This bold move re-established his career, proving that setbacks can be disguised as opportunities.
Even with his current success, Sagar is not one to settle. His future vision includes deeper involvement in political PR, recognizing its untapped potential. Additionally, he sees opportunities in real estate, aiming to explore new ventures that align with his business acumen. His journey, marked by resilience and adaptability, is far from over.
Sagar Dubey’s story is not just about overcoming financial struggles; it is about turning every challenge into an opportunity. His milestones are not just professional achievements but reflections of his determination, risk-taking ability, and an unshakable will to succeed. Each turning point in his life wasn’t just a shift in direction—it was a bold leap toward a bigger dream. For those looking to carve their own path, his journey is proof that success is not given; it is earned through persistence, strategy, and an unrelenting belief in oneself.
“Life isn’t about where you come from, but how you rise above challenges. Every setback carries a lesson, and every hardship is an opportunity to grow.”
LEGACY AND IMPACT
Sagar Dubey’s impact on the Public Relations industry and the legacy he is building are a testament to his journey, resilience, and strategic thinking. His story is not just about personal success but about reshaping an industry and creating opportunities for others. Through his career, he has demonstrated that success is a product of unwavering dedication, adaptability, and a commitment to ethical business practices. His influence has extended beyond his immediate work, inspiring a new generation of PR professionals to approach the field with creativity and determination.
His name is now synonymous with trust and credibility in the PR industry. He has established himself as a reliable bridge between clients and media, transforming the way companies communicate with the public. From handling major corporate accounts to working in political PR, he has shown that PR is not just about media coverage but about shaping narratives and influencing public perception. His work with brands like Tata Motors, Samsung, Amazon, BMW, Colors TV, and MTV has cemented his reputation as one of the leading PR strategists in the country. Through his strategic storytelling, he has helped brands and individuals create meaningful connections with their audiences, enhancing their reputations and market presence.
His influence extends into mentorship and education, as he actively encourages young professionals to explore the PR industry. He highlights the vast opportunities within the field, dispelling the misconception that PR is merely about passing information to media outlets. By sharing his experiences and insights, he has guided aspiring PR professionals in navigating the industry, equipping them with the knowledge to build their own careers. His advocacy for PR education and training ensures that the next generation of professionals is equipped with the skills and mindset needed for success.
Sagar’s legacy is a story of transformation—not just of his personal journey but of the industry he has contributed to. His unwavering pursuit of excellence, his ability to turn challenges into opportunities, and his ethical approach to business have left an indelible mark. His story is an inspiration to those who aspire to rise beyond their circumstances and make a lasting impact in their chosen fields. The influence he has cultivated will continue to shape the future of PR in India, ensuring that his legacy endures beyond his personal success.