The journey of Risepreneur has taken me into boardrooms, offices, cafés, and auditoriums, but more importantly, into the company of people whose work and values I deeply admire. What began as a book turned into a passport to authentic, human conversations around purpose, entrepreneurship, and perseverance. I have tried to capture a few standout moments and personalities I’ve had the honor of connecting with, beginning with two leaders who left an indelible impression on my journey.
Mr. Andreas König
An international pianist, educator, and composer from Germany,
This morning, I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Andreas König, an extraordinary pianist, educator, and composer from Germany, whose artistry reflects both discipline and soul. Currently mentoring talents at the Delhi Music Society, Andreas’s journey across Europe from Frankfurt University of Music and Performing Arts to the Escuela Superior de Música Reina Sofía in Madrid stands as a testament to how culture and creativity transcend borders.
Our conversation flowed seamlessly from the language of music to the philosophy of learning. We spoke about how true mastery whether in art, entrepreneurship, or leadership demands patience, rhythm, and emotional intelligence. His perspectives on how music education in India can blend structure with imagination were both enlightening and inspiring.
What struck me most, beyond his immense talent, was his humility and down-to-earth grace. Despite years of global exposure and accolades, Andreas remains rooted in simplicity, empathy, and purpose, qualities that define the true essence of an artist and a teacher.
It was an honour to present him a signed copy of my book Risepreneur, symbolizing the harmony between creativity and discipline values that unite artists and entrepreneurs alike. We learned about each other’s journeys, shared philosophies of continuous growth, and discovered how music and leadership share the same rhythm of balance, perseverance, and harmony.
Meetings like these reaffirm my belief that learning has no boundaries. Whether it’s through art, education, or enterprise, it’s the exchange of ideas and humility of spirit that create real impact.
Grateful for this morning filled with wisdom, warmth, and inspiration.
Shri Sanjeev Yadav
Director, Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI); Digital Transformation & Governance Leader
Meeting Mr. Sanjeev Yadav at the UIDAI Headquarters in New Delhi was an enlightening experience that blended innovation, governance, and purpose. Our conversation revolved around the wide usability of Aadhaar and its transformative role in enabling inclusive and secure digital ecosystems across India. His deep understanding of technology-led governance and commitment to public service reflected both vision and precision. I was humbled by the way he appreciated my work style and efforts, offering thoughtful words of encouragement that truly resonated. Presenting him my book Risepreneur was a moment of pride and gratitude, symbolic of shared values in driving purposeful innovation and nation-building. The depth of his insights into digital identity and the sheer scale of Aadhaar’s impact left me inspired by how visionary leadership can translate technology into empowerment. As I left UIDAI that day, I carried with me not just admiration for his achievements but a renewed conviction in India’s journey toward a digitally inclusive future.
Lt Gen Shri Ashok Bhim Shivane, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd.)
Former Director General, Mechanised Forces, Indian Army; Strategic Defence Consultant; TEDx Speaker; Author & Leadership Coach
Meeting Lt Gen Ashok Bhim Shivane was an encounter that combined strategic wisdom with humility and inspiration. His reflections on leadership, national security, and the vision of a Viksit Bharat carried the weight of decades of service, yet what left an enduring impression was his grace and down-to-earth nature. Listening to his journey from commanding mechanised forces to shaping strategic thought was like witnessing a masterclass in purpose-driven leadership. His belief that “Soldiering is not a tenure but a mindset for life” beautifully captured the values of discipline, empathy, and lifelong service. Presenting him my book Risepreneur was a moment of deep respect and gratitude, and his words of encouragement will remain a guiding source of inspiration in my own journey.
At IIM Kozhikode, every interaction felt like a new chapter of inspiration. Prof. M.K. Nandakumar Sir, as the head of the Entrepreneurship & New Venture Creation programme, brought a global perspective and depth of strategy that challenged me to look beyond immediate outcomes and cultivate foresight and resilience. Prof. Sreejesh S Sir, through the Strategies for Product & Marketing course, made the learning journey both academically rigorous and deeply practical, ensuring concepts translated into real-world understanding. At the Indian Business Museum, conversations with Appasaheb Naikal Sir highlighted the importance of preserving business heritage even as we shape the future of enterprise. Presenting my book Risepreneur to these professors and dignitaries was one of the most meaningful gestures of my journey, it symbolized respect, gratitude, and the joy of contributing back. What stays with me most is how every dialogue, every classroom insight, and every exchange of ideas on campus carried the power to reset perspective, fuel curiosity, and spark the drive to make an impact.
Prof. Shri Ram Singh
Director, Delhi School of Economics; Member, Monetary Policy Committee, Reserve Bank of India
Meeting Prof. Ram Singh Ji was an enlightening experience that blended academic depth with policy-shaping insight. As the Director of the Delhi School of Economics and a distinguished Member of the Monetary Policy Committee of the Reserve Bank of India, he stands at the confluence of scholarship and decision-making, where economic theory meets real-world imperatives. His contribution to the field of economics reflects not only rigorous analysis but also a commitment to finding balanced solutions in times of uncertainty.
Gifting him Risepreneur was a moment of true honor. Our exchange revealed his rare ability to articulate the nuances of India’s current economic challenges while simultaneously pointing towards pragmatic and forward-looking solutions. His clarity of thought, grounded in data yet enriched with vision, embodies the role of a teacher, guide, and policymaker who shapes how nations respond to complex realities. Prof. Singh’s journey continues to inspire, reminding us that leadership in economics is not about abstract numbers alone, but about ensuring resilience, equity, and opportunity for society at large.
Shri Shyam Sunder Gupta, IRSE (Retd.), FIE, FIPWE
Former Principal Chief Engineer, Indian Railways; Globally Acclaimed Author on Number Recreations
Meeting Shri Shyam Sunder Gupta was an experience of brilliance that bridges engineering precision and mathematical wonder. As Former Principal Chief Engineer of Indian Railways, he steered transformative railway and metro projects that reshaped national infrastructure. Beyond his engineering legacy, his pioneering work in the field of Number Recreations has inspired minds in over 150 countries, with recognition from global platforms including SpringerNature, The Guardian (UK), OEIS, and Amazon. His acclaimed works, Exploring the Beauty of Fascinating Numbers and Creative Puzzles to Ignite Your Mind, stand as testaments to his ability to make mathematics both accessible and enchanting.
Gifting him Risepreneur was a truly humbling experience. Our conversation revealed not just his mastery over numbers but also his gift of transforming complexity into curiosity, patterns into poetry, and learning into lifelong joy. His journey remains a beacon of how intellect, creativity, and service to society can beautifully converge.
Shri Anil Swarup, IAS (Retd.)
Founder Chairman, Nexus of Good Foundation; Former Secretary, Coal & School Education, Government of India
Meeting Shri Anil Swarup was a profound honour and an encounter with wisdom shaped by decades of ethical leadership. As Secretary of Coal (2014–2016), he steered transformative reforms in the aftermath of the coal scam, restoring transparency and trust. Later, as Secretary of School Education (2016–2018), he brought clarity, purpose, and innovation to national education policy. His earlier contributions in Labour & Employment and other key ministries reflect a career defined by integrity and nation-building.
Presenting Risepreneur to him was a deeply meaningful moment. The conversation that followed was filled with clarity, warmth, and encouragement, a reminder that true leadership is measured not by position but by the values one stands for. His humility and vision continue to inspire my own journey of building with purpose and responsibility.
Shri M.K. Singh
Deputy Superintendent of Police, Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
Meeting Shri M.K. Singh was an encounter with integrity and excellence in its truest form. A distinguished officer leading investigations into bank frauds and financial crimes, he has been honoured with the Gold Medal for Best Investigating Officer of CBI (2022) and the Police Medal (2023) conferred by the Hon’ble President of India. His career stands as a benchmark of diligence, precision, and ethical leadership in public service.
Our conversation, spanning his experiences in handling complex investigations, offered rare insights into the values of discipline and resilience that define both effective governance and entrepreneurship. Presenting Risepreneur to him was a humbling experience; his humility and unwavering dedication to the nation reflect the spirit of purpose-driven leadership that inspires my own journey forward.
Shri Rohit Kumar Singh, IAS (Retd.)
Member, National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC); Former Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India
Meeting Shri Rohit Kumar Singh was an encounter with quiet brilliance. A 1989-batch IAS officer from the Rajasthan cadre, he is best known for architecting the Bhilwara Model during the COVID crisis, revolutionizing digital grievance redressal systems, and revamping the iconic “Jaago Grahak Jaago” campaign with tech-forward reforms. His pioneering work in infrastructure monetization and public-private partnerships set benchmarks nationwide. An alumnus of IIT-BHU, Clarkson, and Harvard, his academic excellence complements a distinguished administrative journey across Consumer Affairs, Health, Finance, IT, and Highways. Presenting Risepreneur to him was deeply humbling; in every sense, he embodies the spirit of purpose-driven leadership. His belief in “less ego, more altitude” encapsulates a rare blend of humility and visionary execution.
Shri Subhash Chandra Garg, IAS (Retd.)
Former Finance & Economic Affairs Secretary, Government of India
Former Executive Director, World Bank
Meeting Shri Subhash Chandra Garg was more than a privilege, it was an encounter with conviction, clarity, and conscience. A stalwart of public finance and economic policy, his career reflects a rare fearlessness in thought and integrity in execution. From representing India and neighboring nations at the World Bank, to shaping key fiscal decisions as Finance Secretary, Shri Garg’s journey is a masterclass in principled leadership. Our conversation, held at his residence in New Delhi, deepened my appreciation for his memoir No, Minister, a book that dares to tell the truth, not for provocation, but for posterity. His reflections on bureaucratic responsibility, ethical crossroads, and the true meaning of service reminded me that systems change not through noise, but through the steady courage of those who refuse to compromise their core. To sit with him, listen, and learn was to understand what real steel in public life looks like, measured, grounded, and quietly transformative.
Mr. Mukesh Mohan Gupta
President, Chamber of Indian Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (CIMSME)
Meeting Mr. Mukesh Mohan Gupta was a deeply humbling experience. As someone who has championed the cause of MSMEs for over three decades, his leadership reflects a rare blend of precision, compassion, and unwavering resolve. In his role as President of CIMSME, and with his rich background as a Chartered Accountant, he has continuously bridged the critical gap between finance, policy, and grassroots entrepreneurship. What moved me most was the reach and depth of his impact, through his advisory work at CIMSME, his powerful TV series Positive Talk with Mukesh Mohan Gupta on Zee Business, and the MSME Helpline YouTube channel that has become a trusted guidepost for small business owners across the country. Sitting with him felt like being in the presence of someone who not only understands the challenges of entrepreneurs but has dedicated his life to solving them. When I offered him a signed copy of Risepreneur, it was a symbolic gesture of respect, for someone who has quietly, but powerfully, illuminated the path for so many like me.
Shri Dr. Subodh Agarwal, IAS
Senior Bureaucrat & Policy Innovator
Meeting Dr. Subodh Agarwal was more than an appointment, it was an experience of depth, dignity, and direction. As a distinguished IAS officer, his impact on governance and sustainable development is well known, but it was his clarity of thought and grounded presence that left a lasting impression on me. Our conversation touched on the deeper meaning of progress, how it must be aligned with purpose, anchored in public service, and guided by long-term thinking. When I had the honor of presenting Risepreneur to him, it felt deeply personal. His words didn’t just affirm the work I’ve done, they sharpened my perspective on why I do it. One reflection from that exchange continues to echo within me: “Progress means little without direction, and direction must be anchored in service.” In that one line, he reminded me what real leadership looks like, not reactive, but intentional. I left the meeting with renewed purpose, and immense respect for a man who continues to serve India not just through policy, but through principle.
Mr. Dhanendra Kumar
First Chairperson, Competition Commission of India
Meeting Mr. Dhanendra Kumar wasn’t just a proud moment, it was a profound one. His legacy in shaping India’s economic and competitive landscape is well documented, but what struck me most was the grace and openness with which he received me. We discussed governance, discipline, and the entrepreneurial wave sweeping across India. His sharp intellect was matched only by his generosity of spirit, and I was humbled when he took a genuine interest in Risepreneur. That moment, handing over my book to a man of such vision and impact, felt symbolic of the baton being passed from one generation of nation-builders to another. His encouragement gave me both validation and renewed purpose.
Mr. Ajay Data
Founder & CEO, Data Group of Companies
There are moments in a creator’s journey that feel larger than life, and meeting Mr. Ajay Data was one of them. He not only accepted Risepreneur with warmth, but also signed my personal copy of his book Zenith with a thoughtful handwritten message. That note meant more than I can express, it felt like a leader saying, “I see you. Keep going.” Our conversation flowed effortlessly from leadership philosophies to the future of digital India. His humility, his mentorship mindset, and his visionary outlook all made a deep impact. That exchange didn’t feel transactional, it felt transformational.
Mr. Harshal Dilwali
Director & CEO, Clarissa Group
Mr. Dilwali carries a composed presence that instantly makes you feel at ease. When we met, it wasn’t just about exchanging books, it became a dialogue around values, culture, and the quiet strength required to build sustainable businesses. I was struck by his ability to listen deeply and respond meaningfully. As I handed over Risepreneur, I felt a shared sense of commitment, to build not just successful ventures, but meaningful ones.
Mr. Mohit Sureka
Author, Founder & Director, Global Startup Summit
The moment I met Mr. Sureka, I was met with unfiltered enthusiasm, a rare blend of sharp intellect and high energy. He understands what it takes to rally people around ideas, and our discussion quickly evolved into a brainstorm of sorts. His appreciation for Risepreneur felt sincere and insightful, and I left the room energized by his clarity and commitment to innovation in the startup space.
Mr. Vivek Chadha
Author & Angel Investor
There’s something quietly powerful about the way Mr. Chadha engages, measured, reflective, and deeply intentional. In our exchange, he shared perspectives on long-term thinking, mentorship, and the often-overlooked emotional side of entrepreneurship. When I gave him Risepreneur, I sensed it was going to someone who wouldn’t just read it, but truly dissect its essence. It was an interaction that felt less like networking, more like an intellectual exchange.
Mr. Ramandeep Singh Ahluwalia
Founder & CEO, MyWorkspace
Mr. Ahluwalia exudes calm and clarity, the kind that comes from walking the talk. We spoke about creating intentional spaces, physical and mental, for entrepreneurs to grow. His curiosity and kindness stood out, and our conversation was filled with moments of quiet learning. As I handed him Risepreneur, I felt I was placing it in hands that value introspection as much as execution.
Mr. Shambhu Gautam
Founder & CEO, Showoff Ventures
Mr. Gautam impressed me with his strategic clarity and nuanced understanding of branding and consumer behavior. He asked questions that pushed me to revisit my own journey with fresh eyes. Our interaction was brief but packed with perspective. Presenting Risepreneur to him was a reminder that every brand, and every founder, has a story worth crafting and sharing with precision.
Mr. Nitin Soni
Director & CEO, Adhyyan Books
Few people understand the emotional labor behind writing a book the way Mr. Nitin Soni does. Our conversation veered into the psyche of writers, the courage it takes to express vulnerability in ink, and the need for platforms that uplift authentic voices. As someone who’s empowered many authors, he received Risepreneur not just as a reader, but as a fellow builder in the content ecosystem. That moment will always be special.
Mr. Sachin Garg
Founder & CTO, Rawzor Technologies
Mr. Garg carries an authenticity that’s instantly disarming. He speaks not just from experience, but from a place of lived truth. Our meeting was reflective, about technology, human behavior, and the bridge between the two. He welcomed Risepreneur with thoughtful curiosity, and I left with a sense of having spoken to someone who values both depth and innovation.
Mr. Bhanu Pratap Singh
Founder, Director & CEO, CashCry
Meeting another Bhanu Pratap Singh, especially one who is charting his own bold course, was a delightful twist of fate. Our conversation felt like a mirror, reflecting back the aspirations, fears, and vision we both shared. He spoke with conviction, clarity, and an entrepreneurial fire I deeply resonated with. Handing over Risepreneur to him was more than symbolic, it was like sharing a part of my identity with someone who understands it at a cellular level.
Mr. Kaustabh Mishra
Founder & CEO, Shail Advisors
Mr. Mishra’s poise is immediately striking. He listens with presence, responds with precision, and moves with intention. Our discussion revolved around leadership transitions, conscious business strategy, and legacy. He received Risepreneur with quiet enthusiasm, and I was left with a sense that this book would sit not just on his shelf, but in his reflections.
Mr. Mayank Wadhera
Author, CA, Startup Mentor & Independent Director, Legal Suvidha
Mr. Wadhera blends deep expertise with quiet confidence. His insights into startup finance, compliance, and structure were sharp yet accessible. As an author and mentor, he instantly connected with the intent behind Risepreneur. Our interaction was brief but left a lasting impression of thoughtful leadership.
A Note of Gratitude
This portfolio captures only a small part of a much larger journey. There were many more brilliant minds, kind hearts, and generous souls I had the fortune of meeting, some of whom couldn’t be photographed or listed here. If we met, spoke, connected, or crossed paths in any way during this chapter of Risepreneur, please know: I remember you, and I’m deeply grateful. Your time, your words, and your belief added momentum to a mission that continues to unfold.
