In the dynamic landscape of Indian edtech, GUVI (Grab Ur Vernacular Imprint) has emerged as a transformative force, redefining how technology education is delivered and consumed. Founded in 2014 by Arun Prakash, Sridevi Arun Prakash, and SP Balamurugan, GUVI began as a humble YouTube channel offering coding tutorials in regional languages. Today, it stands as a testament to the power of vernacular education, having empowered over 3 million learners across India and beyond.

GUVI’s core mission is to democratize tech education by providing courses in native languages such as Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, Kannada, and Malayalam. This approach addresses the significant challenge faced by many aspiring technologists in India: the language barrier. By delivering content in learners’ mother tongues, GUVI ensures that complex technical concepts are more accessible and comprehensible, thereby fostering a more inclusive learning environment.

The platform offers a diverse range of self-paced courses and live classes, covering areas like web development, artificial intelligence, data science, and more. Interactive tools such as CodeKata and WebKata provide hands-on coding practice, enhancing the learning experience. GUVI’s Zen Class career programs further bridge the gap between education and employment, offering mentorship and placement support to learners.

Recognizing the importance of linguistic diversity, GUVI has integrated advanced AI technologies into its platform. The introduction of a Large Language Model (LLM) powered by colloquial data sets allows users to interact with the platform in their native languages, including colloquial blends like ‘Tanglish’ (Tamil-English). This innovation not only enhances user engagement but also ensures that learners from diverse linguistic backgrounds can access quality education without language constraints.

GUVI’s impact extends beyond individual learners. The platform has collaborated with educational institutions and government initiatives to organize hackathons and upskilling events, such as the ‘AI-for-Women’ program, which benefited over 30,000 women during International Women’s Week in 2023. These initiatives underscore GUVI’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive tech community.

The company’s growth trajectory has been impressive. From its inception as a YouTube channel, GUVI has evolved into a robust edtech platform with a valuation of INR 120 crore as of 2022. Its acquisition by HCL Group in 2022 further bolstered its capabilities, enabling it to expand its reach and enhance its offerings.

Looking ahead, GUVI aims to extend its vernacular education model to international markets, targeting regions with similar linguistic diversity and educational challenges. By continuing to innovate and adapt, GUVI is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of tech education, ensuring that language is no longer a barrier but a bridge to knowledge and opportunity.

In a country as linguistically diverse as India, GUVI’s vernacular-first approach is not just innovative—it’s essential. By aligning technology education with the linguistic realities of its learners, GUVI is not only breaking down barriers but also building a more inclusive and empowered tech ecosystem.