A Tribute To Dr Anil Kejriwal: Mentor, Visionary And Friend
Finding a mentor like Kejriwal can be a game-changer in both personal and professional growth, offering invaluable guidance, support and inspiration, writes the author
_20240816123813_original_image_43.webp)
In the world of business and personal growth, finding the right mentor can be a defining factor in one’s success. A mentor is more than just a guide; they are someone who supports, challenges, and inspires you to reach your full potential. I was fortunate to find such a mentor in Dr. Anil Kejriwal.
Fresh out of law school in 2021, I was filled with both aspirations and uncertainty. My first encounter with Dr. Kejriwal occurred just before my final exams. Despite the pressures of that time, we agreed on a date for me to join his team. True to my word, I started on that agreed date, and Dr. Kejriwal celebrated my commitment. This act of dedication became a story he often shared—a testament to his deep appreciation for integrity and loyalty.
Working closely with Dr. Kejriwal over the next three years, I experienced the inevitable highs and lows of the business world. His philosophy was simple yet profound: “Appreciate someone for their strengths rather than exploiting them for their weaknesses.” This approach became the foundation of every lesson he imparted to me and shaped my understanding of leadership and teamwork.
Anil sir, as I respectfully called him, challenged me in ways I never imagined. He wasn’t afraid to confront me with hard truths, always with the intention of fostering my growth. Under his guidance, I learned to navigate the complex landscape of business, leading with both strength and compassion. His mentorship was a cornerstone of my professional and personal development, and I remain eternally grateful for his patience, wisdom, and unwavering support.
Beyond his role as a mentor, Anil sir was a visionary investor. He invested in multiple companies and served as an angel investor to many, helping entrepreneurs embark on their startup journeys. His belief in the potential of others was unparalleled. He provided not only financial backing but also invaluable guidance, often stepping in at critical moments to offer advice that proved to be the turning point for many. His involvement in the startup ecosystem was a testament to his commitment to fostering innovation and empowering the next generation of business leaders. Many successful startups owe their beginnings to his foresight and generosity.
His support was like the strength of a mountain range—steady and unyielding. His lessons ranged from the seemingly mundane, like selecting the perfect mango, to the monumental task of managing a company independently. A man who loved to celebrate milestones, Anil sir carried a sealed pack of Cuban cigars in his backpack, promising that we would share one when we achieved our first million in sales—a milestone he was confident we would reach.
On Sunday afternoons, you could often find him at the clubhouse, sipping an Americano and enthusiastically discussing his latest groundbreaking project. If positivity had a face, it would be his. Anil sir lived life on his own terms, embracing each moment fully—a lesson we should all strive to emulate.
The bond between a mentor and a mentee is a rare and precious one, often cherished beyond a lifetime. Anil sir exemplified resilience, teaching us to rise from failures with grace and determination. He was a firm believer in the power of networking and nurturing relationships, proudly calling himself the most connected IITian—a title he wore with both pride and responsibility.
I hope Anil sir knew the depth of respect, reverence, and admiration he commanded—not just from me, but from countless individuals he inspired and challenged. His passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt, not only as a leader and mentor but also as a friend and a beacon of kindness and generosity.
He was truly a force of nature, and his impact on those around him will be felt for years to come. His memory will continue to inspire us all to reach higher and strive for excellence in everything we do. Dr. Anil Kejriwal’s legacy of hard work, dedication, and discipline is one I will always strive to uphold, carrying forward the values he instilled in me.
