Nurturing Values, Learning from Life, and the Love for Numbers
In this day and age, what is your perspective on the importance of business ethos and values in any organisation?
In the dynamic landscape of today, the significance of business ethos and values is paramount, forming the foundational pillars of any organisation. Reflecting on this, I emphasise that for an organisation to thrive in a competitive world, these values must be ingrained in its DNA. Similarly, for individuals, clarity about these values is crucial. Seeking clarification when in doubt, according to me, is always advisable.
Tell us any interesting anecdotes about a life lesson at any of the unexpected scenarios and places.
I spent my childhood in Jamshedpur, attending a very basic school. The turning point came when the Tata group collaborated with the school management. In a short period, they constructed a small school building and secured the school’s affiliation to CBSE.
I was part of the early batch to appear for CBSE exams. This initiative by the Tata group, alongside a few individuals, significantly changed the fortunes of many students, including myself.
It opened up opportunities for us to secure admissions in top universities. This experience instilled in me the belief that as individuals, we should engage in small acts of kindness within our means. The impact can be far greater than we might initially think.
Talk to us about your passion for cricket. How has it impacted positively on your work, and so is the life balance.
I strongly believe in dedicating time to our passions, whether it’s sports, reading, travelling, or other interests. Of course, this commitment needs to align with priorities in both work and personal life. Over the past few years, I’ve managed to carve out time to play cricket a couple of times each month.
Reentering the game after a 15-year hiatus has been a rewarding experience, focusing on readjusting my skills and keeping up with the energy of younger players.
The Sunday morning games not only help me gain focus and positive energy but also immerse my mind fully in the game, with the sole objective of performing well.
Many children/youngsters find numbers difficult. How did the love for numbers happen to you, and a career?
In my childhood, I had the freedom to balance studies and sports without any pressure of expectation. This allowed me to focus on activities I genuinely enjoyed. During those days, I provided a bit of support in running the family business, which naturally drew me towards finance.
Graduating in Delhi opened up various career possibilities in finance. Through interactions with friends, I became interested in the Oil & Gas business, leading me to work first at BPCL and later at Cairn.
What is your view on savings and investments?
On the topic of savings and investments, I share a perspective that echoes the common trap many fall into – leaving a substantial portion of earnings in low-return savings accounts. I advocate for a thoughtful plan that considers current needs, future aspirations, and risk appetite. Emphasising the power of compounding, I encourage disciplined investments, with individual research and analysis guiding decision-making.
