Some meetings leave an impression. Others change the way you look at life.
My meeting with Dr B. R. Shetty in Dubai was one of those rare experiences.
Meeting a man who had reached extraordinary heights in business and become a billionaire, yet remained deeply connected to his values, faith and dharma, gave me much more than a business lesson. It gave me a lesson in life.
Dr Shetty was among the key members of the team supporting the development of the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi, serving as Chairman of Mandir Limited during an important stage of the project. In 2018, he was present when the architectural consultancy agreement for the Mandir was signed, and he spoke passionately about his belief in the project and the importance of collectively contributing to such a noble cause.
But what struck me most was not his wealth or achievements.
Behind the success was a man who had experienced extraordinary highs, but also difficult and challenging lows. Yet, through those ups and downs, he continued to stand strong, holding on to his beliefs and his dharma.
Our conversation made me reflect on something very important: success is not measured only by how high we rise, but by how we conduct ourselves when circumstances change.
The BAPS Hindu Mandir itself is a powerful example of what faith, vision, perseverance and collective effort can achieve. What once seemed impossible became a reality through the efforts of spiritual leaders, governments, businesses, volunteers and people from different communities coming together. Dr Shetty described the Mandir as a dream that had become possible and called upon everyone to unite and contribute to the noble cause.
For me, meeting him was therefore not simply a meeting with a successful businessman.
It was an encounter with someone whose life demonstrated that wealth can come and go, positions can change and circumstances can turn; but values, faith and dharma can remain your greatest strength.
I came away with a simple but powerful lesson:
Stay humble when you rise. Stay strong when you fall. Keep faith when the path is uncertain. And never compromise on your dharma.
That meeting in Dubai will remain one of the most meaningful and life-changing experiences of my journey.
Sometimes, the greatest lessons in life are not taught in a classroom or a boardroom.
They are learned by meeting people who have walked the difficult path before us.
By Sanjay Sharavan
Readers like you, make ESHADOOT work possible. We need your support to deliver quality and positive news about India and Indian diaspora - and to keep it open for everyone. Your support is essential to continue our efforts. Every contribution, however big or small, is so valuable for our future.
