A Tribute to My Greatest Mentor: My Dad

The concept of mentorship often conjures images of industry leaders, seasoned professionals, and career coaches guiding us towards our goals. Yet, sometimes, the most profound mentors are those we least expect, whose influence we may not fully recognize until they are no longer with us. For me, that mentor was my dad.

Growing up in an orthodox family in India, the expectations for women were markedly different from those today. Back then, a woman’s education was often seen as secondary to her marital prospects. In the late 90s and early 2000s, the pervasive belief was that too much education might hinder a woman’s chances of finding a husband. This was the cultural backdrop of my youth, where family and societal pressures were ever-present.

Amidst these traditional views, my dad stood as a beacon of defiance and progressive thought. He was a man of few words, often expressing his guidance in ways that seemed irrational at the time. However, as I grew older, I came to understand the depth of his wisdom and the unwavering faith he had in my potential.

I vividly remember overhearing a conversation between my dad and a relative, who was urging him to prioritize my marriage over my education. With a firmness that was uncharacteristic of him, my dad replied, "I don’t care if she gets married, but she needs to get educated." Those words, overheard in passing, became the bedrock of my resolve. They fueled my ambition and propelled me toward the accomplishments that define who I am today.

In my 20s, while my peers navigated the complexities of societal expectations, I was driven by an inner compass set by my dad’s vision for my future. His support was unwavering, though it often came through in unconventional ways. He pushed me, challenged me, and in his unique manner, guided me to aim for the best.

As time went on, I realized that my dad’s seemingly irrational ways were his methods of mentoring me, pushing me beyond my comfort zones and societal constraints. It was his way of showing me that true mentorship is not about hand-holding but about instilling a sense of resilience and determination.

Beyond his role as a father and mentor, my dad was also an innovative thinker and a visionary. He founded two groundbreaking products that not only gained him numerous awards but also earned him widespread recognition. His achievements in these areas were a testament to his ingenuity and dedication, further inspiring me to strive for excellence in all that I do.

Tragically, it wasn’t until after he passed away on March 5, 2024, that I fully grasped the magnitude of his mentorship. His final words to me, with his hand gently resting on my head, were, "Thank you for choosing me as your dad." Those words resonate with me deeply, a poignant reminder of the bond we shared and the lessons he imparted.

In the wake of his passing, I have come to appreciate the myriad ways he influenced my life. My dad’s belief in education over tradition, his defiance of societal norms, and his unique approach to mentorship have all shaped me into the person I am today. His legacy lives on in the values he instilled in me and in the path I continue to forge, driven by his memory.

As I reflect on my journey, I realize that my dad was more than just a parent; he was my greatest mentor. His impact on my life is immeasurable, and his lessons will continue to guide me forever. I can’t thank him enough for the foundation he built, for the courage he instilled, and for the unspoken words of wisdom that resonate within me.

To anyone reading this, I urge you to cherish the mentors in your life, especially those whose influence might not be immediately apparent. Sometimes, the most profound guidance comes from the quiet strength and unwavering belief of those closest to us. For me, that person was my dad, and I am eternally grateful for the path he helped me carve.

In his memory, I strive to live each day with the same courage and conviction he embodied, knowing that his legacy lives on through me. Thank you, Dad, for being my mentor, my guide, and my greatest inspiration.