Category: Leaders

Building Sustainable Edifices Of Trust

Hailing from a small town, and having learned the basic rules of money management at a young age, Bijay Agarwal began his thrilling journey with one small step. However, his commitment and passion soon turned into huge financial gains, and today he is renowned as one of India’s leading real estate developers

“Always be humble and work hard. Having these two qualities will take you places. At the same time always try to help others as much as possible. A little kindness can go a long way”

Bijay Agarwal’s story is of immense inspiration, as he became successful step-by-step through extraordinary grit and firmness of purpose. He started out humbly in Bengaluru in 1993, acquiring a small plot that offered 20,000 sq. ft. of construction. It was a commercial building called Money Chambers and it was a success! This encouraged him to construct his first residential project in Indiranagar of just 12,000 sq. ft. of built-up area. After that, there was no looking back!

Consistent Trajectory of Growth

Though his success has really taken him to great heights, he has never left his roots. He shares, “I always ensure that my debt is contained to a certain level and once the project is complete, it is paid off. I also safeguard the company’s and my own interest by conducting a ‘financial health check-up’ every six months that allows me to know just what risks I can take. This helps me stay grounded and my company stable.”

In the initial phases, under the dynamic leadership of Bijay Agarwal, Salarpuria Sattva Group focused on a mix of commercial and residential developments. Rapid bookings, since beginning, offered them ample encouragement, and they kept acquiring more land and expanded continuously. They believed in maintaining a balance between residential and commercial to ensure cash flow while continuing with the risk appetite with commercial projects.

Transforming Challenges into Opportunities

Bijay Agarwal reminisces, “When the IT boom hit Bangalore, we became a trendsetter. We set up the first IT Tech Park called GR Tech Park in Whitefield, Bengaluru. At that time, global companies were scouting to invest in residential and commercial properties and you can safely say that we showed the way.”

One success led to another, and in 2010 they earned recognition as a CRISIL A stable rated company which was truly a milestone for them. By 2015-16, they had completed 110 projects and had established their presence in cities such as Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Coimbatore, Pune and Goa.

In addition to progressing in real estate, they also explored other avenues of expansion, and made forays into Education by setting up Greenwood International School. Next, the Aero Accessories, Sattva E-Tech and Logistics divisions were also set up. Today their business verticals include facilities management, aerospace, education, hospitality, office spaces, homes, D&B solutions and urban development.

Growing consistently with each passing year and with each project, they kept on creating newer stories of success. Sharing about such projects, Bijay Agarwal says, “One of our most ambitious and Asia’s best project is Knowledge City in Hi-Tech City in Hyderabad. The technologically advanced IGBC certified Platinum rated multi-purpose Commercial building has a total development of over 7.5 million sq. ft. with an array of amenities.

“Today in Hyderabad alone, we are working on 20 million sq. ft. of IT space – Knowledge City, Cyber Park and Necklace Pride. Knowledge City is already touted to be one of the best in Asia and some of our prominent clients are Novartis (1 million sq. ft.), SAP, JP Morgan, HSBC, etc. We should complete the project by mid-2019. We have also launched a mixed development project, Magnus, at Jubilee Hills. It is a premium gated community and we plan to develop 5.4 acres and construct four residential towers and one commercial tower.”

Their other cutting-edge projects in Hyderabad include Salarpuria Sattva Knowledge Capital in the financial district of Nanakramguda and Salarpuria Sattva Knowledge Park. They have also tied up with the Telangana Government to build Image Tower, a world-class animation, gaming and visual effects centre of more than 2 million Sq. ft. that will be the new- age Charminar in the city. In 2018, they have already completed 26 million sq. ft. of construction, and 38 million sq. ft. is in progress.

Balancing All Acts

Being a smart businessman and a pragmatic person, he strongly believes in diplomacy and honesty in all his relationships and complete transparency in all business dealings. He asserts, “When dealing with people in business, we tend to come across many challenges,
but one of the biggest issues is how to deal with people tactfully. Often people take advantage of you, but if you spend time with someone, you eventually get to know their intentions. Through all these challenges I have learnt that one must never fight and solve one’s problems; it only leads to more crisis and litigation, rather approach the issue humbly and peacefully.”

In the best interests of his clients and the general property buyers, he believes in reforming the real estate industry. He feels that all government approvals should be fast-tracked so that the developer can launch the project in a timely manner and with minimum delay in order to deal with the project efficiently.

He also wants to bring a change by simplifying direct and indirect tax laws and by incentivizing and rewarding the compliant developers, because he also believes that, “No good incentives are being given to good developers even when the real estate industry is the key generator of jobs, consumer of a large number of products from other industries
and also has huge capital consumption. Compliant developers need to be given a platform and recognition needs to be given to them.” He cherishes having earned a degree in Owner/President Management (OPM) Program from Harvard Business School, and accepts that it has not only helped him learn the art of how to master his business, but has also helped him look at things more subtly. Giving due credit to his family for his various achievements in professional life, he shares, “My family has always been my biggest pillar of strength. They have always motivated and inspired me to do better. In my professional life, my focus is to build trust and quality and to deliver more than what I promise, always.”

A Leader of the Future

Under his insightful leadership, Salarpuria Sattva has always been exceptionally passionate about sustainable development and has always shown strong commitment to environment conservation. Being an environmentally conscious brand, it has constantly believed in contributing towards the future in every little way possible. Its flagship IT Tech Park in Hyderabad, ‘Knowledge City’ (Indian Green Building Council rated) is a testimony to this. Its blueprints for all its projects always include Rain Water Harvesting and Solar Energy consumption.

Apart from various green initiatives, Salarpuria Sattva has also been providing comprehensive free stay for families of ailing patients at Sai Baba Hospital located at Whitefield in Bengaluru. The Group provides patients’ families with basic amenities so that they can have an affordable and stress-free stay. It has also been doing many small-scale sustainable activities in and around Bengaluru.

Though Bijay Agarwal has achieved extraordinary success, it hasn’t changed his innate qualities of benevolence and pragmatism. He is still a down-to-earth person, and believes that, “Always be humble and work hard. Having these two qualities will take you places. At the same time always try to help others as much as possible. A little kindness can go a long way.”

Laying the foundation of a Better world

Armed with a rich experience of 3 decades, the CMD of Alliance Group, Mr. Namburu has been laying strong foundations of trust by promoting high levels of ethics and integrity in business practices and ensuring unparalleled service to the clients. Besides being an accomplished entrepreneur, he is also the author of the popular book ‘Moguls of Real Estate’

“Both our organisation and our family are involved in many CSR activities and one that we are emotionally attached to is the plantation drive involving plantation of 2 lakh trees in Chennai city”

With a rich global experience of around 10 years as the CEO of Magma Consulting Inc., based in Pleasanton, California, USA, Mr. Namburu spent a significant amount of time helping clients improve their bottom lines through the adaptation of emerging technologies. Despite tasting immense success overseas, he always longed to return to his homeland and ultimately returned to India for good. He was interested in developing software parks, however, destiny had some other plans for him in store and he ended-up joining hands with his childhood friend Mr. Suneel Bommireddy to establish Alliance Group. They started the very first project in Bangalore titled ‘10 Downing’, which did exceedingly well and derived significant advantage of the real estate boom.

Identifying “a serious vacuum of large scale professionally run real estate developers in Chennai”, he “decided to focus on Chennai and work towards becoming number one real estate developer in the city in 10 years.” He started developing large scale projects and owing to his dedication and commitment, he achieved great success. Today, he declares with pride, “In 10 years that goal to become the largest and number one developer in Chennai has become a reality.” Talking about his expansion plans, he says, “Now we also operate in Hyderabad real estate development space and are aspiring to become the number 1 in Hyderabad market.”

Turning Adversity into Advantage

It is a widely accepted fact that one of the most important qualities of a leader is resilience. In fact the true grit of a leader is not how he or she performs during the good times but rather how the person displays emotional strength and professionalism during the most trying times. Despite having hit rough weather a number of times, Mr. Namburu never gave up and emerged stronger than before. Throwing light on some of the specific challenges he faced, he elaborates, “Housing bubble and recession in 2008, Demonetisation, GST roll out,
December 2015 floods and introduction of RERA Act were the challenges we have faced like every real estate developer. However, the difference is that we emerged unscathed each of these times while several developers never recovered from those shocks and many developers went bankrupt. He further adds, “Our attitude of ‘Identifying opportunities in adversity’ is one of the secrets of our organisation’s success.”

Advocating Reforms for a Brighter Future

An ardent advocate of some of the reforms which should be brought about in the real estate sector, Mr. Namburu asserts, “We strongly feel that Real estate industry should be given an ‘Industry status’. It is an irony that whenever the economy is down, the government first focuses on stimulating housing growth, as they believe housing industry alone has the capacity to spur growth in 150 other industries and provides employment to crores of people – yet real estate industry does not have an ‘Industry status’.”

He is also concerned about the fact that “Real estate developers depend completely on funding from NBFCs at high rate of interest.” In his opinion, “Banks must fund real estate companies which will give access to funds at reasonable rates for the industry to expand.”

He further adds, “In affordable housing industry while the buyers whose monthly gross salary is under Rs.75,000 are excited to buy a home and are ready to pay for the monthly EMI – yet most of them do not have the 10% down payment (approximately Rs.2 to 4 lakhs) required to pay for buying the home and avail a home loan for the remaining 90%. The government is giving up to Rs.2.6 lakhs as subsidy from Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. If only this amount is given to customers at the time of paying advance to enter into agreement, the sales in affordable housing sector which is the primary growth engine for the country today can be revived and the growth of economy can be triggered.”

Cherishing Triumphs

For his outstanding contribution to the real estate sector, Mr. Namburu has received numerous awards with the notable one being Economic Times Ace Tech award for ‘Leaders of Indian Infrastructure & Construction’. Owing his success to a great support system, Mr. Namburu delineates, “I’m blessed with a family which stands behind me like a rock of Gibraltar. My wife takes care of every single matter at home, so I can completely stay focused on my work. My parents have always encouraged me – each time I had a fall, they only used words of encouragement.” He further adds, “My partner Suneel’s family is my extended family. He is a brother to me and inspires me to excel all the time.”

Giving Back to Society

Giving back to society is one of the most important and valuable ways in which a leader can contribute towards building the nation. Bent on making a positive difference to the world, Mr. Namburu is involved in multiple pro-social initiatives. He vehemently asserts, “Both our organisation and our family are involved in many CSR activities and one that we are emotionally attached to is the plantation drive involving plantation of 2 lakh trees in Chennai city. On 12th December 2016, cyclone Varda caused heavy damage in Chennai city – damaging everything that came in its path. Our city has lost over 4 lakh trees. As an organisation we have taken it upon us to plant 1 lakh trees and distribute another 1 lakh trees to homes across Chennai and encourage them to plant and care for those trees.”

He adds, “Figuring out that not everyone will plant a tree and take care of it for an year or two unless it gives benefit to them, we have distributed 1 lakh Mango and Sapota trees, which will not only motivate the people to plant and look after them, but will also provide the much required green cover to the city as well as encourage the birds which thrive on such plants to nest in our city.”

Marching Towards a Sustainable tomorrow

Mr. Namburu is deeply committed to building a sustainable future. He asserts, “As an organisation we wanted to diversify into a space which is close to our heart. We have always believed that we need to manage our planet better and leave our planet in a liveable shape for the future generations. And hence we chose to address pollution and CO2 emissions and chose to be in the battery minerals space which is contributing towards reducing dependency on burning fossil fuels.”

He further elaborates, “We have acquired one Lithium mine in Mali, in Western Africa and are working on the project to produce Lithium for Lithium Ion batteries, which are replacing the fossil fuels. We have also acquired a Graphite permit in Madagascar in Africa to be able to mine and process flaky graphite required for producing anodes for Lithium ion batteries. Usage of Lithium ion batteries has been mastered over the last few years and many car makers are coming with electric models to reduce fossil fuel usage. This space has been pioneered and lead by Mr. Elon Musk of Tesla Motors and we wanted to contribute with our might to this space by being a significant miner for battery minerals across the globe.”

Mr. Namburu’s distinguished contribution towards the development of society, economy and environment is commendable. No wonder he is an inspiration for umpteen aspiring entrepreneurs and others who intend to follow his lead. His message to them is “The world belongs to the learners. The more you know the more you can achieve. Read a lot and further your knowledge.” Emphasising upon the importance of taking calculated risks, he asserts, “A ship is safe in a harbour, but that is not what it is built for. You must learn to take calculated risks. Only those who take risks (calculated ones) walk ahead of the crowd.”

Undauntedly Creating New Horizons

Inspired by his forefathers and with his father’s words of caution and encouragement about the life he has to face in this real estate industry, Mr. Aadarsh Kumar Surana took the company Amarprakash Developers to a higher altitude, undaunted by the meagre resources and just a few members recruited through word of mouth.

“He outwitted his competitors in his 1st project itself, as he offered high quality at an affordable price, and has been consistently offering the best products and services.”

Sight on Quality Construction

Mr. Aadarsh Kumar Surana is considered the guiding force of Amarprakash Developers, who has evolved and developed it into one of the top real estate companies in Tamilnadu in less than a decade.

He has successfully carried forward the legacy of Amarprakash, which was first established in 1950, when Shri Amarchand Surana got involved in creating innovative business, products and services including finance and real estate investments. Next, he pioneered in the electrical manufacturing under the name Allied Industries in 1970, as he was confident that electricals would be the next popular business in India.

Mr. Aadarsh Kumar Surana is the next-generation entrepreneur, and is well known for his various interests including as a prominent member of the community, and a religion & social activist. He decided to take forward the legacy and established a new business in 1980, diversifying first into the automobile sector, and then into finance, real estate, personal loan, etc. To satisfy his deep desire to contribute to the betterment of society, in 2004 he expanded to real estate, infrastructure and property development, and started constructing quality homes at an affordable price range for average earners.

Offering Better Solutions

His business philosophy to offer better living solutions to the people with a sense of security, comfort and joy worked and he introduced his ingenious ideas into the business to create innovative and superior products. He outwitted his competitors in his first project itself, as he offered high quality at an affordable price, and not needing to look back since
then, Amarprakash Developers has been consistently offering the best products and services with a high value for money to all its customers.

As he feels that satisfied customers are the biggest asset for any business, Mr. Surana has invariably focused on providing value-driven results to his customers, through quality services and has been successful in satisfying his customers’ needs beyond their expectations.

Assisting his employees to expand their capabilities by offering them a stable and safer work environment and thereby creating a loyal and productive work force, he has also been successfully improving current practices by integrating superior quality and innovative technology with outstanding selfless service to his local and global community.

Fulfilling Responsibility

Working towards his vision to be the most trusted and innovative real estate developer in India while offering quality living to all his stakeholders, he has never shied away from his responsibilities towards the society. Under his leadership, Community First is the operational motto at Amarprakash, and Amarprakash Foundations has been actively involved in various CSR activities. Mandatorily returning the good that the community has offered him, through Amarprakash Foundations, Mr. Surana has been continuously benefitting the community.

Through Amarprakash’s Jain Public School (CBSE), which is a non-profitable organization designed to create a vibrant and prosperous society, he has been working towards the education of children, and is also committed towards excellence in health and safety. He has organized several health camps to serve the humanity, and has executed a successful field guide for detection, management and surveillance of impurities in potable water and has also assisted the backward students through fees, books and free health check-up camps irrespective of caste or creed.

Mr. Ashish Vijay is the Chairman & Founder of the AV Group – a reputable business conglomerate housing a multitude of companies across diverse sectors. A prominent Dubai-based investor, philanthropist, and entrepreneur, the global leader brings decades of experience in the precious gemstone and luxury jewellery industry, as well as finance and investment sectors. His commitment to quality, innovation, and generosity has positioned him as a preeminent figure in the high-end jewellery industry. For him, his work is also his passion, which drives him to continuously push the boundaries of creativity.

Mr. Ashish is committed to building a lasting legacy that transcends generations. Taking inspiration from his father, he has personified generational continuity through his entrepreneurial brilliance and integrity. Born and raised in India, he has been fascinated by the dazzling splendour of diamonds since childhood. With this fascination, he immersed himself in his father’s jewellery business while balancing his studies. Gradually, the family
business was relocated to Dubai, where he soon made his presence felt in the luxury market by delivering top-notch quality and craftsmanship. Mr. Ashish embarks on new ventures with zeal and ambition. Over the years, he has channelled his entrepreneurial spirit into a diverse array of ventures under the AV Group umbrella. From Meraki Gems and Jewellery to Tiara Gems and AV Globale-a global hub with offices in Dubai, India, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Central Africa, his ventures span gemstones, high-end jewellery,
luxury lifestyle, real estate, infrastructure, hospitality, auctions, and innovative tech-
driven collaboration platforms. With each venture, he aims to set new standards in the
industry.

QUALITY REIGNS SUPREME

Mr. Ashish leveraged his family’s multigenerational proficiency in precious stones to establish a globally renowned company known for its expertise in sourcing top-quality stones. His expertise is not limited to dealing with cut gemstones; he equally excels in the intricate art of selecting unpolished stones. For him, quality isn’t merely a fleeting attribute but a legacy that transcends time, leaving an indelible mark on generations to come. The ambitious leader has curated a stunning private collection of precious stones sourced from diverse corners of the world. His impressive collection includes diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, alexandrite, and more. What’s more, he sources jewellery and gemstones ethically and sustainably and works with suppliers to ensure conflict-free sourcing.

EMPOWERING GENERATIONS THROUGH ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Mr. Ashish is driven by a deeper purpose: to empower individuals to achieve financial independence and contribute meaningfully to society. Through his innovative online auction website, he has revolutionised the way people engage with gemstones by democratising access to these precious assets. By enabling individuals to bid on gemstones at competitive rates, he not only facilitates smart investments but also creates opportunities for passive income generation. With AV Globale’s platform, individuals can not only acquire gemstones but also resell them, thus transforming assets into a tangible source of wealth. A tech-savvy individual, Mr. Asish utilises groundbreaking technology to produce designer jewels, exclusive timepieces, and
a blue-chip art collection for connoisseurs. By employing state-of-the-art techniques such as 3D deposit mapping, AI-driven polishing refinement, and immersive virtual/augmented reality evaluations, he has elevated industry standards, particularly in terms of transparency. The forward-thinking leader also believes in treating clients like family and building long-term relationships that transcend generational lines. Due to this level of personalised attention, AV Group has developed unbreakable bonds of affinity, thus securing its dominance in the market and generating substantial goodwill.

“AT THE CORE OF MR. ASHISH’S VALUES IS HIS FIRM COMMITMENT TO ETHICAL BUSINESS PRACTICES AND RESPONSIBLE MANAGEMENT. HE BELIEVES IN CONDUCTING BUSINESS WITH HONESTY, TRANSPARENCY, AND RESPECT FOR EVERYONE, INCLUDING SUPPLIERS, PARTNERS, CUSTOMERS, AND EMPLOYEES”

PRIORITISES VALUES OVER PROFITABILITY

Mr. Ashish is committed to ethical business practices and responsible management. With a keen focus on honesty, transparency, and respect for all stakeholders, he has set new standards for integrity within his industry. From ensuring compliance with mining regulations to empowering artisan alliances through innovative e-auction platforms, his
vision extends far beyond profit margins. He seeks to facilitate sustainable growth and equitable opportunities for all.

A BENEVOLENT LEADER

Mr. Ashish’s impact transcends the boardroom, as he devotes himself to philanthropic endeavours for enriching lives and communities. His tireless advocacy for women’s rights, ethical mining procedures, and education exemplify his dedication to effecting meaningful change on a global scale. His work includes empowering women miners in Africa, as well as spearheading educational initiatives and ensuring the safety of women workers in diamond mines, and thus promoting gender equality. The compassionate leader is also active in various girl child initiatives, and has established schools in Sri Lanka and India through the Bliss Foundation, an NGO, co- founded by his father. By prioritising education and empowerment, he seeks to break barriers and create ample opportunities for underprivileged girls. As he looks to the future, Mr. Ashish adheres to a simple yet profound philosophy: “Nothing is mine. Not even it was before, not now, and even after 25 years. There’s nothing that is mine.” It is this humility, this recognition of the transient nature of material wealth, that sets him apart as a truly enlightened leader – one who understands that true richness lies not in possessions but in the impact we make on the world around us. His mission is to inspire others to join him in building a more inclusive and equitable world.

REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENTS

A sought-after speaker and revered industry expert, Mr. Ashish champions transparency, innovation, and relationship development. His insights have been featured in prestigious publications such as Forbes, The Times of India, and Business Insider, where he continues to inspire and enlighten others with his vision for a brighter, more inclusive future. He is also the newly appointed Director of the ICAI Dubai Chapter. His role is to advance the gemstone industry in the region so as to establish Dubai as the premier destination for gem lovers. Additionally, through his role at the International Coloured Gemstone Association, he tirelessly works to elevate awareness and participation in the vibrant world of gemstones. Furthermore, in 2021, he gained acceptance into the Forbes Business Council–a prominent platform for accomplished business owners and leaders globally, renowned for facilitating growth opportunities worldwide. Speaking of this achievement, he said, “This honour by the Forbes Business Council is a significant career milestone for which I am deeply grateful. I hope to utilise this platform to raise awareness about investments and
business opportunities in the vibrant sector of diamonds and rare gemstones.” As he continues to break new ground and inspire others, one can only expect even greater things to come from this visionary leader.

Leading With Integrity

An example of integrity, ingenuity, dedication, and hard work, Mr. Ranjan Mahtani is one of the most successful leaders in the retail space. Providing employment to millions of skilled labour and leading a world-class Group, he sees himself as a learner who never satiates with his laurels

“WHILE RECOGNIZING THE PAIN INVOLVED IN THESE UNPRECEDENTED TIMES, MAHTANI & HIS TEAM AT EPIC, WHILE STEADYING THE SHIP, ARE CONTINUOUSLY
REINVENTING AND FINDING INNOVATIVE WAYS OF DELIVERING HIGH PERFORMANCE
AND COMFORT PRODUCTS IN AGILE AND UNIQUE MANNERS”

What makes leaders good leaders is their penchant for learning, growing, and contributing
immensely to the greater good of not just their business, but the world. A good leader never rests on one’s laurels, never fails to challenge oneself, and always keeps one’s mind and heart open for new learnings. This same dedication towards exploring newer realms, the insatiable thirst to evolve, improve, absorb, and reinvent, and a feeling that he is starting from scratch every day makes Mahtani a leader-par-excellence and a personality to be revered. The Chairman of Epic Group, which is one of the fastest-growing apparel manufacturers in Asia with eleven manufacturing facilities in Bangladesh, Vietnam, Ethiopia and Jordan, employing over 30,000 people, Mahtani is known for his strong fundamentals and moral values that help him run his business with integrity and ingenuity.

For him, each dawn means a new start and each dusk is an opportunity to reflect on the growth of his business and self. His hunger to constantly innovate his business is the only reason that Epic Group, just within 15-years of its establishment, is a world-renowned force.

A TRAILBLAZER

Now 56-year old, Mahtani was born in Mumbai, India, where he spent the formative years of his life. As he ventured into a professional world, his instinct to learn, evolve, and grow, led him to travel across the world and over the past thirty-five years he has had impressive stints Bangladesh, Taiwan, USA, while maintaining Hong Kong as his base.

His relentless energy and his pursuit to create a brand of manufacturing in the volatile fashion industry, while simultaneously trying to improve the lives of the poor men and women, who create garments for their livelihood made him lay the foundation of Epic Group in 2015. His undying passion for greatness and innovation made the group immensely successful and famous within a few years of its birth and today it is one of the most renowned retailers with a connection to premium brands and markets in every continent around the world.

Raising bars and expectations continuously for himself and his team, he is of the firm belief that there is no point in having a vision if you do not have the ability to take that vision to reality. Starting from scratch and humble beginnings, Ranjan was one of the pioneers of the Bangladesh and Ethiopian garment industry. He looks back at his early days with great fondness and says that he would not change a thing if allowed to go back in time.

As COVID-19 starts the new ways of working and probably a new world which will again test the leadership and history of most organizations, Mahtani is well-prepared to deal with any hurdle that might arise.

While recognizing the pain involved in these unprecedented times, Mahtani and his team at Epic, while steadying the ship, are continuously and parallelly reinventing and finding innovative ways of delivering high performance and comfort products in agile, unique, new manners to the customers. Epic continues to invest in technology and new divisions during
these testing times, clearly identifying opportunities in the new landscape.

TRANSPARENCY IN WORK

Businesses have evolved massively in today’s time. They are no longer only a means to earn name and fame, but also come with a lot of responsibility towards society, and a chance to catalyze meaningful changes in the world. They are no longer just about making profits but building long-term relationships with all associates, clients, customers, and patrons.

For Mahtani, the biggest driving force behind running Epic Group is his dedication towards his customers and partners. He ensures that maximum transparency is maintained in all the functions of the firm. While the company operates on the three broad pillars of sustainability, world- class manufacturing and solid personal connections with all stakeholders, what separates them is their level of transparency with all stakeholders internal and external, the customers know if the Group have a problem, they will be the first ones to know about it with simple solutions always part of the dialogue. This, Mahtani believes leading by example, has got deeply embedded into the Epic culture.

“While our customers come first in our business, our vision and mission are always anchored with our deep sense of responsibility to our people. We did not get here by accident and this is only the beginning – we are a company that relishes challenges and converts them into opportunities,” says Mahtani. Mahtani is always excited to take on new challenges and simultaneously work towards improving his own skills as he equips the team to take on modified roles and responsibilities. This agility has helped the group manifolds in maintaining its stunning success.

THE FAMILY MAN

Not just an award-winning astute businessman, Mahtani is a fantastic family man too. Despite his mind-bogglingly busy schedule, he makes sure that he gets enough time out for his wife Angeli and his three sons: Aryan, Karan, and Aditya. A great father, Mahtani has been making sure that the next generation learns from him the best traits of running a business as well as maintaining a healthy relationship with self, the family, and the society. Mahtani has always been eager to get himself involved in his sons’ growth as a person and has been a constant source of inspiration and support for them. Mahtani makes sure that the kids are imbibing great values in themselves and are turning to be dedicated, hardworking, and benevolent humans as he has been.

The versatile leader is a true force of motivation and inspiration for millions of young entrepreneurs who want to change the course of the business world as Mahtani has done.

Architect of Amazing Accomplishments

A self-driven entrepreneur with an unforgiving eye for detail, Nitesh Shetty is a man of steely determination who firmly believes that nothing is impossible. He carries an easy and affable charm in his demeanor which often vibrates the room with vibes of positive energy

“His is not a rag-to-riches story, but he certainly is a self-made man, if we go by the cliché of terms to describe his motivated personality”

Big dreams, lateral thinking, and a pragmatic approach are the factors which fuelled the meteoric rise of probably the youngest real estate tycoon of Bengaluru – Nitesh Shetty. His brainchild Nitesh Estates have been adorning Bengaluru’s skyline for more than a decade now, and he even brought the famous luxury brand The Ritz-Carlton hotel to the country.

Nitesh’s unshakeable determination and the willingness to be on the top of his game every time have designed the module of his success. Never shying away from taking risks and venturing into areas which others found unachievable, he made his way to the zenith himself. His is not a rag-to-riches story, but he certainly is a self-made man, if we go by the cliché of terms to describe his motivated personality. A workaholic whose race to achieve more never ceases, Nitesh Shetty is the epitome of excellence.

INTROSPECTION OF SELF

His escapade to the gallery of luxury real estate development was initiated in the thought of a moment – a hunger to be nothing but the number one. Nitesh pursued his career as a tennis pro for a few years. His excellent skills made him won several state-level championships; however, he soon realized that he had reached the peak of his game and there wasn’t any growth ahead. He did not want to stay in a field where he couldn’t be the
best. And his heart’s calling told him that business is what can give him the thrill of palpable success and the top spot.

It was in the year 1997 when 20-year-old Nitesh borrowed a sum of Rs. 12,000 from his mother and began his entrepreneurial journey by selling billboard space in Bengaluru. It was around this time an old building on MG Road in Central Bengaluru caught his eye, which he developed into an office space called Nitesh Broadway, and marked his entry into the real estate sector. This was also the inception of the now popular Joint Development model used rampantly in the real estate world. Though initially it was difficult for him to convince the financiers as they ignored his passion considering him just another young boy, he never let this dishearten him. And from then on, there was no looking back for this self-motivated man, as he developed a plethora of properties in just over a decade including commercial spaces, condos, a shopping mall and a luxury hotel.

SHADES OF VERVE

Nitesh Shetty is a man of many interests. His first passion tennis still remains very close to his heart. He loves to travel and dine at the finest of restaurants around the globe. He adores art and that is reflected in his marvelous creations as well.

Even though he has attained tremendous success and popularity in a short time, Nitesh remains a shy boy at heart. He doesn’t like undue attention and keeps a very small circle of close friends. A family man, he manages his personal and professional life extremely well. His life has been a roller-coaster ride, highs accompanied by lows, but he never let the bad times hamper his zest to attain laurels. Nitesh knew exactly what he wanted and with a sharp focus went for it quietly and confidently. Today, he is recognized as one of the top real estate tycoons of the country.

A CATALYST FOR POSITIVE CHANGE

Mr. Rohan Prem Sagar, Director and Trustee of Dayananda Sagar University (DSU) in Bengaluru, Karnataka, is known for his results-driven strategies that have catapulted his business ventures to new heights of success. As a stalwart in education, healthcare, and business, this visionary leader emphasises a futuristic approach to constantly drive innovation. His resplendent aura of transformative leadership has helped DSU build a culture of adaptability and excellence. Additionally, he holds U.S. citizenship, adding a global perspective to his impressive leadership repertoires

“MR. ROHAN ENVISIONS THAT DSU WILL BECOME A GLOBAL HUB FOR INTERDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH. HIS GOAL IS TO MOULD THE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS INTO THOUGHT LEADERS”

A mid the towering structures of Bangalore, where ambition and innovation weave the fabric of the city, stands a man whose vision and leadership have cast a profound light on the realms of education and healthcare. Drawing from his diverse academic experiences at George Washington University and Columbia University, Rohan possesses a unique set of interdisciplinary insights that empower him to navigate various sectors with expertise. Graduating with a bachelor’s degree in International Business from George Washington University in Washington DC marked the beginning of his journey. Post graduation, he assumed the role of Director at DSI, later becoming the Joint Secretary in 2019. His noteworthy tenures as Executive Director and Director at Sagar Hospitals and DERBI Foundation underscore his exceptional leadership, project management, and strategic planning capabilities.

Founded in 1960 by his late grandfather, Shri R Dayananda Sagar, DSI stands as a renowned educational institution in India. It offers a wide array of academic disciplines, from pre-university courses to postgraduate and doctoral programs, covering fields like Engineering, Dental Sciences, Biological Sciences, Arts, Commerce, Sciences, Pharmacy, Nursing, Allied Health, Business Management, and Information Technology. Rohan’s leadership style fuses strategic thinking with a people-centric approach. Throughout his career, he has adeptly transformed teams into formidable forces, leaving a lasting impact across various sectors.

GLOBALISING MEDICAL EDUCATION

The recent launch of CDSIMER, the medical college, and Sagar Hospitals in Bangalore underscores Rohan’s global vision for Dayananda Sagar University. With state-of-the-art facilities and world-class infrastructure, the institution provides an optimal learning environment, making it a top choice for international students seeking excellence in medical education. Under Rohan’s guidance, the university actively attracts global talent through exchange programs, collaborative research, and partnerships with reputable medical institutions worldwide. The curriculum, thoughtfully crafted to meet global standards, embraces diverse medical practices. Deeply influenced by the Japanese philosophy of “Kaizen,” emphasising continuous improvement through lifelong learning, Rohan sees excellence as an ever-evolving journey rather than a destination. Whether formulating educational strategies, enhancing healthcare standards, or driving business expansion, his unwavering dedication to Kaizen remains the driving force, guiding him toward excellence and enabling a lasting impact on individuals and communities.

DONNING MULTIPLE HATS

In his role as the Director of DERBI Angel, the on-campus entrepreneurship and innovation cell at DSU, Rohan motivates students to pursue their entrepreneurial aspirations. Beyond just providing mentorship and funding to inventive startup founders, he plays a pivotal part in discovering and nurturing disruptive ideas, steering them towards sustainable growth. Through the establishment of strategic partnerships and networking events, he has cultivated an environment fostering collaboration and the exchange of ideas.

Moreover, as a Trustee & Board Member of Dayananda Sagar University, Rohan envisions a dynamic fusion of tradition and innovation. His short-term goal is to focus on growing academic programmes, building research collaborations, and leveraging technology. For the long term he envisions that Dayananda Sagar University will become a global hub for interdisciplinary research. His overarching goal is to mould university students into thought leaders capable of driving meaningful societal change. He also intends to provide a healthy environment that embraces diversity & promotes intellectual curiosity.

EXEMPLARY CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Rohan’s commitment to patient confidentiality at Sagar Hospitals and academic integrity at Dayananda Sagar University reflects his ethical excellence. He encourages transparent communication through consistent stakeholder engagement and open forums. He has implemented robust compliance frameworks that align with industry standards and legal mandates. He also instills ethical conduct via comprehensive training and a no-tolerance stance on misconduct.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Rohan is a firm advocate of cultivating a positive organizational culture. In his role as one of the members of Board of Gorvernors of DSU, he showcases a deep dedication to corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Actively promoting student involvement, he encourages them to participate in community outreach programs, amplifying the impact of these initiatives. Rohan emphasises, “Dayananda Sagar University seamlessly weaves CSR into a robust commitment to community engagement.” Likewise, as the Director of Sagar Hospitals, he places a strong emphasis on social welfare and regularly initiates health camps and outreach programs to extend medical services to marginalised communities. With his guidance, the hospital has strategically established affordable healthcare units to address accessibility issues, as well as targeted awareness campaigns to promote preventive health services. These proactive initiatives have made a tangible difference in the well-being of underserved communities through collaboration with NGOs and local authorities.

REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENTS

Rohan’s recent accomplishments have propelled Dayananda Sagar University to unprecedented heights. He took the lead in introducing groundbreaking programs in emerging fields, aligning them with industry demands. Additionally, through strategic partnerships with esteemed institutions, he has not only elevated the academic ecosystem but also fostered a culture of collaboration. His focus on integrating technology and offering industry-relevant curricula positions Dayananda Sagar University as a trailblazer in progressive education, equipping students to navigate dynamic professional landscapes and make significant contributions to ongoing industry transformations.

BUILDING PILLARS OF HAPPINESS

As they say, it takes decades to build a brand. Such is the case with Prestige Group; structuring on strong leadership pillars Irfan Razack has made Prestige a household name in Bengaluru

“A born leader, Irfan is blessed with the acumen to see opportunities where none apparently exist”

In 1990, when Irfan Razack sold his second real estate project in his home market of Bengaluru for Rs 1 crore, he began planning his retirement. Elated with the money he had made, Razack thought he could spend his days indulging in his favourite hobby—horse riding. But twenty- ive years later, the now 62-year-old chairman and managing director of Prestige Group is still hooked on to real estate. “My friend had warned me that making buildings is like a drug. He said, ‘You will become addicted to it’,” says Razack, who heads Prestige Estates Projects Ltd, the group’s flagship company.

LEARNING FROM THE FAMILY

Irfan Razack, the eldest son of Razack Sattar, is at the helm of the Prestige Group. A born leader, Irfan is blessed with the acumen to see opportunities where none apparently exist, the courage to take the untrodden path and the determination to see his vision through to fruition. His leadership acumen received national recognition, when he was declared Professional of the Year at the Real Estate Excellence Awards 2008. He has been Honorary Secretary of the Al Ameen Educational Society for 17 years, the President of Bangalore Commercial Association (BCA), and the Chairman of the Real Estate Committee of CREDAI, Karnataka for 4 years.

PROFOUND VISIONARY

While Irfan propels the falcon to soar higher, farther and wider, what sets him clearly apart is his ability to simultaneously bring his formidable abilities to bear on philanthropic and social causes. A man of many facets, Irfan’s leadership skills have been at the fore right from his youth. As a student leader at St. Joseph’s College, Bangalore he was the driving force behind many a laurel won by it. In recognition of his achievements the St. Joseph’s Old Boys Association has honoured him with the Lifetime Achievement Award. In an exclusive interview with MyBangalore. com, Irfan Razack, Chairman and Managing Director of Prestige Group talks about Bangalore’s progression, the real estate industry and his company’s growth plans.

A self-professed “clear thinker”who prides himself on being meticulous, he believes that life is about conquering the next big milestone. “Money loses its charm after a while. It is the creativity that keeps you going,” says the billionaire, who, with a net worth of $1.23 billion, ranks at No 77 on the 2014 Forbes India Rich List.

BUILDING PRESTIGE

Under the esteemed headship of Irfan Razack, Prestige Estates Projects, India’s second-largest listed real estate company, is on the brink of greater things. Now more than ever, it needs its leader.

Razack states that retirement is just not an option for him. He has led the Prestige Group to be committed to a cleaner and greener Bangalore and all our projects have 25% or more land area set aside for landscaping. The group is actively involved with the Public Works Department (PWD) in the beautification of Bangalore.

Inspired by the unmatched success of The Forum mall, the Prestige Group has plans of redefining the concept of shopping in malls by taking the Forum brand forward to several cities in South India. Seven more Forum malls are in the pipeline across Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mysore, Mangalore and Kochi. Also, the popularity of Forum Value Mall, the only outlet mall in South India, has encouraged the company to develop more malls along the same lines.

Empowering the Next Generation

In the rapidly evolving educational field, an institution’s leader has a significant impact on its future. The dynamic CEO of the Brindavan Group of Institutions (BGI), Dr. Shruti Sharma, possesses the traits of a transformative leader, which are required to create a vibrant learning environment. Her steadfast dedication to the welfare of students and employees is not just a rule; it is a strongly held conviction that shapes the culture of the institution.

Dr. Sharma’s vision for BGI has always been to transcend conventional wisdom in education. Acknowledging the close connection between the general well-being of students, their academic performance and faculty; she has pushed for a comprehensive strategy that takes mental, emotional, and physical health into account. Her efforts are based on the conviction that every person within the organisation must be able to reach their full potential in a caring and supportive atmosphere.

Student Welfare: A Top Priority

Dr. Sharma’s comprehensive student wellbeing programme, which BGI has just launched, emphasises creating a supportive and well-balanced educational journey for every student. This programme has multiple components, such as social-emotional learning, physical fitness, and mental health services. Students will always have access to trained therapists when they need it, thanks to the creation of counselling centres on campus. Regular workshops on resilience, mindfulness, and stress management are also organised to give students essential life skills.

Furthermore, Dr. Sharma has played a key role in incorporating health and wellbeing into the syllabus. The academic curriculum now includes courses on interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and mental health awareness. The goal of these programmes is to raise a generation of well-rounded people who are not just intelligent but also emotionally secure and socially conscious.

Enhancing Employee Well-Being

Dr. Sharma recognises that a healthy and motivated faculty is the foundation of every successful educational institution; thus, she also extends her dedication to wellness to the BGI staff. She has implemented many initiatives to boost employee satisfaction and career advancement.

Dr. Sharma also strives to create an environment at work that values cooperation and respect for one another. She fosters a positive and welcoming work environment, ensuring employees are motivated and supported to give their best, which directly enhances the quality of education the students receive.

Creative Projects for an Eco-Friendly Future

Dr. Sharma’s strategy focuses on long-term sustainability in addition to short-term well-being measurements. She has taken the lead in programmes that encourage sustainability and environmental consciousness on campus. These projects include waste management plans, environmental-friendly infrastructure, and curriculum-based environmental education. Dr. Sharma is teaching pupils to be responsible global citizens by fostering a feeling of environmental responsibility in them.

Outreach and Community Involvement

Outside of the campus, Dr. Sharma has improved BGI’s outreach to the local population. The institution’s resources and experience are put to good use for the benefit of society at large through cooperative projects with neighbourhood organisations, health camps, and educational outreach initiatives. In addition to increasing the institution’s social impact, this community-centric strategy gives students practical experiences that enhance their education.

A Legacy of Empowerment

Dr. Sharma’s initiatives are a reflection of her profound knowledge and her keen inclination towards staff welfare and the overall development of students. She believes that they are the keys to an educational institution’s success. Her high priority on well-being has enabled her to cultivate a supportive and empowering environment that prepares the next generation for the challenges and opportunities of the future.

Given the ongoing scrutiny of education institutions, Dr. Sharma’s leadership at BGI is the evidence of the significant influence that a wellbeing-centric strategy may have. Her legacy is one of perseverance, empowerment, and all-around development that has raised the bar for educational institutions.