Joining the Global Executive MBA program has been more than just stepping into a classroom — it’s stepping into a transformative journey that connects cultures, values, and leadership. Born and raised in India, I was educated in its rigorous academic traditions and later transitioned to a professional life in the United States. Even already having this global business experience, visiting India with my Duke cohort brought a deeper dimension.

One of the most powerful moments was our visit to Delhi’s Akshardham temple — a place of profound spirituality, architecture, and cultural richness. Walking through its intricately carved halls with classmates from across the globe, I felt a shared sense of wonder. The silence, the symmetry, the stories represent leadership values that transcend geography.

Conversations moved beyond strategy and key performance indicators (KPIs) into compassion, clarity, and humility. The teachings of Swaminarayan at Akshardham reminded us that empathy and service are not soft skills — they are leadership imperatives. To quote His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the creator of Akshardham: “In the joy of others lies our own.”

This visit strengthened bonds within our cohort, and it helped me rediscover the roots and vision of my own leadership philosophy. The world is one family, which fosters inclusive leadership, cultivates empathy across cultures, and lays the foundation for values-driven success in a globally connected world. It is also called SAMP (Unity) emphasized by HH Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS sixth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.

Colors of Leadership

Celebrating Holi with my cohort was an unforgettable experience filled with color, laughter, and joy. Known as the festival of colors, Holi symbolizes unity, renewal, and the triumph of team spirit. As we playfully threw colors on one another, it felt like all distinctions of background, role faded away, leaving behind only connection and camaraderie. In that moment, I realized how deeply leadership is rooted in trust and honesty.

The vibrant celebration became more than a cultural experience; it became a leadership lesson in bonding, openness, and mutual respect. Through laughter and color, we built deeper bonds and embraced the power of shared joy, a reminder that leadership begins with genuine human connection.

From Vision to Venture: Yashraj’s Story and the Soul of Mumbai

Our visit to Mumbai was another remarkable chapter in this global journey. One of our team members, Yashraj, shared his inspiring leadership path as an innovator and visionary who is building cutting-edge digital platforms across industries, including tax and accounting. His entrepreneurial spirit and sharp problem-solving mindset showcased how technology can drive transformation across traditional sectors. After an engaging session with him, we immersed ourselves in the vibrant pulse of Mumbai, from historic sites to street-side food adventures.

Empowered to Speak, Inspired to Lead

Another highlight of my MBA journey was participating in a student-run speakers’ series, expertly led by one of my classmates. It was a remarkable opportunity where I was invited to share my thoughts on leadership, drawing from both personal experience and professional insights.

Speaking in front of such a diverse and accomplished cohort was an honor. It also invited a moment of reflection on what it means to lead with purpose, resilience, and authenticity. I spoke about the mindset of a true leader: one who listens, empowers others, and stays grounded in values.

The residency was a powerful experience rooted in learning, connection, and purpose. Amidst global diversity, I saw unity flourish through shared goals and mutual respect. Integrity guided our conversations, actions, and the trust we built as a cohort.

Moments of cultural exchange reminded me that leadership thrives in empathy and inclusion. Above all, I embraced the truth shared by HH Pramukh Swami Maharaj: “In the joy of others lies your own”.