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BANGALORE -- When Byju Raveendran launched his eponymous education business in 2011, he took a decidedly analog approach to promoting it. He spoke at packed cricket stadiums across India and traveled overseas to pitch his unique learning method to the Indian diaspora.

Aspiring middle-class parents flocked to hear his inspirational talks, where he told crowds that he learned English from listening to cricket commentary. "You don't need to be a specialist in everything," he told students. "Capitalize on your strength -- everybody has strengths."

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