"My path has been through the high-stakes arena"
Raj Dhonota, contestant on The Apprentice in 2005, delved into difficult times from his past when he went bankrupt and also faced allegations of fraud.
The businessman was on the very first series of Lord Alan Sugar’s BBC competition. He was 30 years old when the season was broadcast.
Now age 49, Raj Dhonota is set to leave the UK behind to set up a technology company in California.
According to The Sun, Raj admitted: “For two decades, I’ve ridden the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, earning millions and losing millions.
“My path has been through the high-stakes arena of cutting-edge ventures, filled with exhilarating highs and heart-breaking lows.
“After the latest twist in my journey, I’m steering a new course: my final business venture, based on my experiences over the last 20 years.
“Launching a business in the US has always been a goal of mine and now, it’s finally happening.
“Over the past year, I have been meticulously crafting a venture tailored for the American market.
“This venture will capture all of my attention for the foreseeable future – I’m dedicating the next five years to ensure its success.
“After that, I’ll be stepping back and heading into retirement!”
These “heart-breaking lows” came to Raj when he was declared bankrupt in 2023, following an initial bankruptcy in 2001.
He was in the midst of tumultuous finances in 2020, which were caused by Covid-19. Raj was allegedly unable to pay his staff working at one of his companies, Igniva Solutions.
For the next year, Raj Dhonota was investigated for fraud by Metropolitan Police. No evidence was found against him.
Raj cooperated with the police during the investigation, which he calls the best thing as it helped clear his name.
While on The Apprentice, Raj was an online entrepreneur and he did well, remaining on the show for nine weeks.
He was ultimately fired on April 13, 2005, after a task where candidates had to sell a text messaging service for football match updates.
Raj was in Team First Forte which lost the task due to lower subscriptions.
He was fired due to his dismal sales and his failure to contribute efficiently in the task.
The first series of the show was won by Tim Campbell, who became Lord Sugar’s aide in the programme from its 16th series.
The Apprentice is currently airing its 18th series on BBC One.
Meanwhile, Raj Dhonota presently runs a successful beauty business in Kent with his wife, with turnover touching £1 million.
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