Retirement

 "Retirement: A New Beginning, Not an End"

Retirement often carries the weight of societal expectations, defined by an arbitrary age—58 or 60. For many in government or corporate sectors, this stage is synonymous with stepping away from work, settling into a quieter routine, and embracing life.

Family and friends frequently echo the same sentiment: “Why work after retirement? Just relax and enjoy life.”

But retirement doesn’t have to mean a full stop. Instead, it’s the perfect opportunity to rediscover passions and pursue dreams often sidelined during a busy career. This was consultancy—a field that combines my love for learning, travel, and meeting new people. It’s a journey that keeps me energized and fulfilled, even as I let go of old bonds and embrace new beginnings.

When I bid farewell to my corporate career, some of the relationships I had nurtured over decades seemed to fade overnight. It was a stark reminder that not all connections are as enduring as they appear. This realization made me focus on building a more meaningful and joyful world around me.

Inspiration for this mindset comes from the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai—finding purpose in life. Many Japanese individuals never truly "retire." Instead, they continue doing what they love, as long as health permits. This belief fosters longevity, vibrancy, and a life brimming with meaning.

In 2019, I met a 96-year-old gentleman running a small tuck shop atop a hill in Mahabaleshwar. His zest for life, coupled with a strong sense of purpose, left me awestruck. His story reaffirmed my belief that age is merely a number—what truly matters is your spirit and determination to keep moving forward.

Retirement is not the end of your journey; it’s a fresh chapter. Plan ahead, embrace your passions, and make every moment count. Life, after all, is about continuous growth, no matter the stage. As my beloved  Chairman, of RIL,  Shri Mukesh Ambani, rightly says, “Growth is life.”

#RetirementPlanning #Ikigai #NewBeginnings #LifeAfter60 #PurposefulLiving

 

SMOG IN NORTH INDIA

 Smog Crisis in North India

For over a week now, North India—particularly Punjab and Chandigarh—has been shrouded in a thick, black smog, with no sign of sunlight piercing through. This isn’t due to harsh winter or cloudy skies; it’s the toxic effect of severe air pollution. The air has become so hazardous that simply breathing feels like a health risk, and we’re seeing a spike in respiratory illnesses, asthma attacks, heart conditions, and other serious health issues. Hospitals are overflowing, struggling to accommodate the influx of patients.

Yesterday, the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Chandigarh, one of India’s greenest cities, reached a staggering 500—a level considered "severe." In comparison, London’s AQI was merely 20.  The contrast is alarming. Are we not living in a gas chamber of our own making?

Who is responsible for this crisis? Vehicle emissions and uncleaned roads play a part, but the main culprit is stubble (Parali-residual of rice crop) burning in Punjab, Haryana, and parts of Pakistan.   Despite the detrimental impact on public health, enforcement remains lax. Why? Farmers, forming a significant voting bloc, have been given a free pass. As the “Annadata” (providers of food), they hold sway, even bringing highways and city roads to a standstill in prolonged protests, as politicians and courts hesitate to take action against them.   Unfortunately, government support for sustainable stubble disposal remains minimal; transporting and processing crop residue for biogas or alternative uses is deemed uneconomical.

It’s time for action. Our health and future are at stake. Let's work towards sustainable solutions, support our farmers in transitioning to eco-friendly practices, and protect the air we all breathe.

God save our country!  We are at least 50 years behind Europe when it comes to air quality.

 

#SmogCrisis #AirQuality #NorthIndia #AQI #SustainableFarming #ParaliBurning #HealthCrisis #EnvironmentalResponsibility #CleanAir #FutureIndia

 

Guru Nanak Devi ji

 Nanak Dev Ji

Guru Parab ki lakh lakh badhaiya!

On this sacred day marking the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, we celebrate the light of wisdom, compassion, and unity he brought to the world. Born on April 15, 1469, in Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan), Guru Nanak is revered as the founder of Sikhism and a timeless beacon for humanity. His teachings emphasized three core principles: Kirat Karna (earn an honest living), Naam Japna (meditate on God's name), and Vand Chakna (share with others, especially those in need). Guru Nanak rejected divisions of caste, creed, and religion, advocating for a universal brotherhood that sees beyond such barriers. His teachings encourage us to live authentically, treat others with kindness, and stay mindful of the Divine in our daily lives.

In today’s world, introducing chapters on Guru Nanak’s life in schools and colleges is immensely important. His principles of compassion, equality, and honesty offer young people timeless values that bridge divides and foster empathy. By incorporating Guru Nanak’s teachings into education, we can nurture not only knowledgeable but also compassionate individuals. His universal message of unity and respect amidst diversity is more relevant than ever for fostering a harmonious society.

Since the history of Sikhism is recent and well-documented, the teachings of all Sikh Gurus should be given the utmost importance. This compassionate faith, rooted in service, has inspired countless Sikhs worldwide to reach out during disasters, accidents, and crises, embodying the spirit of selfless help. In my own life, I experienced this firsthand; in 1996, I met with a serious accident on Waterfield Road in Bandra, Mumbai. A Sikh gentleman rushed from a nearby eatery to help me without hesitation. In the mele, he injured himself but helped me.   Truly, what a great community!

#GuruNanakDevJi #HappyGurpurab #UniversalTeachings #IntegrityAndCompassion #EducationForPeace #Mindfulness #Equality #YouthEmpowerment #TimelessWisdom #ServeHumanity #InclusiveSociety

 

 

 

 

           

 

Corporate Wisdom

 Corporate Wisdom: Building Legacy Through Character and Conduct

After nearly 36 years in the corporate world, I’ve seen countless scenarios that reveal where things often go wrong—and, more importantly, how they can be avoided. Here are some reflections on behaviors that truly matter in building a successful and respected organization:

1. Choosing the Right Leaders: Leaders are the lifeblood of any organization, the driving force that sets the tone for the entire team. Selecting leaders demands careful consideration, yet many family-run businesses promote senior employees without evaluating their true potential to lead. Some individuals excel as team players but struggle in leadership roles. A strong leader is courteous, collaborative, technologically astute, legally knowledgeable, and refined in manners. Conversely, an aggressive or disrespectful leader can damage the organization’s reputation. On the other hand, a well-mannered manager contributes to the company’s financial success and enhances its brand image.

   Between 1994 and 1997, I visited the Industry House in Churchgate, where I engaged with senior managers from the BK Birla Group as a bulk buyer of chemicals. Their professionalism and respect left a deep impression—they continued my supplies even when my cheques occasionally bounced, without showing any displeasure. When I remember these instances, I send heartfelt blessings their way for their remarkable grace and respectfulness.

2. Protect Your Personal Information: In corporate settings, friendships with peers, subordinates, and even vendors can naturally develop. However, sharing personal details—such as salary, assets, or family matters—should be approached cautiously. Even if shared with good intentions, these details can sometimes incite envy or be used against you.

3. Keep a Professional Distance from Vendors: During your career, vendors may shower you with praise, saying, “Ye chamak, ye damak, ye phulon ki mahak, sab kuch sarkar tumhi mein hain" ("This brilliance, this elegance, this fragrance of flowers—all of it, sir, is found only in you"). It’s essential to remember that these flattering words are often meant to serve their interests. Treat vendors with respect but maintain a healthy professional distance. Becoming emotionally invested with them can lead to disappointment when they move on once you’re no longer advantageous to them.

4. Communicate with Respect: Some managers exert authority by scolding their team members publicly or reprimanding vendors in meetings with other departments. This behavior dampens morale and can lead to unintended, uncomfortable confrontations. Vendors may respond harshly, causing lasting embarrassment. Delivering constructive criticism privately and respectfully is far more effective for building strong, lasting relationships and setting an example for the entire team.

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These are more than lessons—they’re values that help build a culture of respect, integrity, and resilience in the corporate world.

#CorporateWisdom #LeadershipMatters #ProfessionalEtiquette #BusinessSuccess

Deepawali

 Deepotsav: A Celebration of Unity and Light

One of India’s most fascinating, revered, and popular festivals is Diwali. While numerous

legends surround this auspicious occasion, I believe our generation owes a deep gratitude to

our forefathers, who conceived the celebration of Diwali to coincide with the gentle transition

from the heat of summer to the refreshing onset of winter.

In today’s world, rife with jealousy, anger, and divisions, this festival emerges as a much-

needed balm. Set aside the larger issues in society, and even within families, we find growing

divides—brothers, sisters, nephews, uncles who no longer speak to one another, often over-inflated
egos or monetary matters. Ironically, even husbands and wives in many homes live in

silence. Diwali reminds us to come together and cherish these bonds, showing us that there is

strength in unity. Let go of false pride, and celebrate this season with family—this, I believe,

is the most valuable lesson Diwali imparts.

Look around, and you’ll see packed trains, buses, and flights as people journey to be with

their loved ones. I spent my childhood in a small village called Mokalsar, and the greatest gift

our parents gave us was the value of togetherness. To this day, despite living in different

places, our family members join each other to celebrate this festival.

It’s often said that pictures speak louder than words, and my videos beautifully capture this

message of unity.

MAPIC 24 : A retailers Mela in Mumbai

 Mapic 24

Mapic an annual event of retailers, developers and consultants held as a ritual every year in Mumbai for past 20 years. I would call it a Mela albert a sophisticated one.

Real estate developers put their stalls like shop keepers set up temporary sheds in the mela to attract their clients viz brands. Brands’s people feel like “Kings” for whom shop keepers are waiting for shopping. Sandwiched between those two are property consultants who are running behind both brands and developers to crack the deal of shopping. Brokers behave like modern Pandits to tie knots of the the developers and brands. Every one tries their own ways to attract their customers Some speak fluent english, some play the game of eyes, some play rhetoric, offers all incentives, welcome them with coffee, tea and of course grand parties in outside venue.

Like in Mela, loud music and dance become integral part of the conference so that all three stakeholders can march together.

And last category is of the penalists and speakers who come prepared to deliver their talk but hardly finds audiences as the traders are busy in selling their stuff. Why to waste time in Gyan ki bat…..

The conference organisers Mapic India put in yet long efforts like Mela exhibitors to brings shoppers and shop keepers to bring them together. They charge astronomical fee to put stalls and hefty fee from
customers to make it exclusive.

What a beautiful and colourful mela. Simply enjoyed of course cut short to a day only.

Be careful

 Story : Be careful

In 1994, Kamal was working with a company in Mumbai. His company’s official bank account was with a Public Sector Bank and so he also opened his personal account there.

As a habit he used to send his office boy for banking transactions, cheques deposit, cash withdrawals, bringing cheque book, Passbook entries etc.

Kamal used to update his passbook on monthly basis. One fine day he noticed three entries of withdrawals in his passbooks albeit very small amounts Rs 100, Rs 100 and Rs 150 on different dates.

Kamal had never withdrawn such small amount from the bank and so he scratched his head and straight went to the bank.

The clerk argued that the money was withdrawn as per cheque issued by him only. The clerk was not ready to show the voucher as it was time consuming. But Kamal insisted and finally on intervention of Manager the vouchers were shown. It was a great surprise for all three of them that on forged signatuture the money was withdrawn. The clerk told him that he didn’t verify the signature because the office boy was regular one and amount withdrawn was negligible. At the request of the Manager and his personal relationship with the bank, Kamal didn’t pursue the matter with the RBI.

It was revealed that the office boy used to take out blank cheque leaves. Kamal never thought this faithful boy could do like this.

Anyway the boy was punished appropriately.

Moral : Be careful. सावधानी हटीं, दुर्घटना घटी

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