From ₹26 LPA to ₹70 LPA in Two Moves — How This Software Engineer Did It Without IIT or MBA

Software engineer sparks online debate and inspiration over career growth through job switches and hard work
A software engineer, Saurabh Yadav, has set social media abuzz after revealing that he nearly tripled his salary in just two job switches without an IIT degree or MBA. The viral post, made on X (formerly Twitter) on August 3, 2025, has since garnered over 2 million views and widespread reactions.
first job: ₹26LPA
— Saurabh ✧ (@saurabhyadavz) August 3, 2025
second: ₹28LPA
third: ₹70LPA
no IIT. no MBA. just worked hard.
what about you?
Yadav wrote, “First job: ₹26 LPA, Second: ₹28 LPA, Third: ₹70 LPA. No IIT. No MBA. Just worked hard.” The tweet quickly resonated with tech professionals across India, especially those from non-premier institutes, challenging the belief that elite degrees are the only gateway to high-paying tech jobs.
The engineer, did not reveal the names of the companies or the exact domains, but his message highlighted that focused effort, relevant skills, and timing job switches strategically can lead to significant financial growth in the IT sector.
X users flooded the comments section with queries and admiration. Many asked about his domain, interview prep strategies, and negotiation tactics. Others expressed how the story gave them renewed motivation. One user Shivangi Singh, commented, “Good luck for your future endeavours! These are big achievements.”
However, the responses weren’t all serious. Shishir Srivastav joked, “My first job was 1.8 LPA. Beat that!” while another chimed in with, “Currently, my package is ₹1 crore per annum. It’s just peanuts for me.”
Still, the overwhelming sentiment on the platform was one of appreciation for Yadav’s grit and clarity. The tweet has sparked conversations in tech communities and beyond about the value of skills, timing, and personal growth over traditional prestige.
Career success stories outside the IIT-MBA bubble are increasingly becoming a source of aspiration for young professionals.