To a Visionary on His 75th Birthday(March 8)

Some individuals don’t just build businesses—they build communities, opportunities, and legacies. Today, as he turns 75, I celebrate, in the best manner I can – to write about a man who has done exactly that.

A first-generation business tycoon, he transformed barren land into a thriving hub—a space where dreams took shape and people found not just houses, but homes. His vision extended beyond infrastructure; he created spaces where education, entertainment, and a sense of belonging flourished. Through his relentless pursuit of excellence, he has employed thousands, positively impacting not just their lives but also those of their families. The blessings of these individuals continue to fuel his journey, and his unwavering commitment remains an inspiration.

An inspiration to the younger minds who are immersing their minds and hearts today into creating a lucrative, impactful, and one-of-a-kind startup.? His project was indeed a startup since he had no lineage of fathers or forefathers in the business. He took on the task of literally converting bare land to gold measured not in grams or kilograms but in square feet and acres.? This branded piece of gold is none other than Powai.

From empty land - end to end, today a skyline grand

A transformation, meticulously planned

Powai now thrives, corner to corner - its story told and retold

From nothingness, it today glitters like gold!

For over two decades, I had the privilege of working alongside him—learning, growing, and evolving under his remarkable leadership. His presence was transformative. He had an uncanny ability to turn challenges into stepping stones, to see possibilities where others saw roadblocks, and to inspire those around him to strive for excellence.? Paving the road, not just with concrete, but making sure dreams had a road to reach their goal, bringing them closer and something that needn’t be seen only with eyes closed!

With my interaction with him over the years, I realized what set him apart was his rare blend of strength and compassion. He led with unwavering conviction yet always found time to listen, mentor, and uplift. His decisions were not just about business outcomes but about people—nurturing talent, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that every challenge became a lesson in resilience.

These lessons are not found in textbooks or neatly structured online courses. They are not confined to the pages of leadership manuals or virtual classrooms. Instead, they are lived, experienced, and absorbed—shaped by moments of observation, the weight of responsibilities, and the resilience required to hold on even when the ground shifts beneath you.

Working with him was about watching, imbibing, and internalizing values not just from his words but from his actions. He taught by example—turning obstacles into opportunities, leading with both strength and empathy, and demonstrating that true leadership is not about authority but about vision, integrity, and the ability to uplift others. Since I guess he too learned this from the ground upward, the virtue to elevate is most organic.

Even today, as I navigate my journey beyond the corporate world, many lessons remain with me. They remind me that growth comes not just from knowledge but from perseverance, and that true leadership is about holding the rope steady—even when the landslides hit.

Through shifting roads, and changing skies

His inspirational words, still synchronize

True strength is more than what we know

It's holding on firm, when hurricanes blow!

Stepping away from the corporate world, post-retirement, having embraced my passion for writing, his influence remains ever-present. In moments of doubt, I recall his unwavering belief in perseverance. When crafting stories, I draw upon the clarity of vision he exemplified. And above all, I carry forward his most valuable lesson—the importance of creating something meaningful, something that adds value to others.? Making my words leave an impact that positively stirs the thoughts of the reader, if not immediately, then at some point later in life

The ode above is for none other than Niranjan Hiranandani —a visionary who didn’t just build structures but reshaped the very landscape of Powai. His towering legacy is not just in the skyline he created but, in the minds, and lives he influenced, mine included.

On this special milestone birthday ( 75th), I extend my deepest gratitude for his influence in my life and my warmest wishes for his health, happiness, and continued success. May the years ahead be filled with the same joy and inspiration that he has so generously given to others.

A milestone bright, a life so grand

A legacy built from the heart and by hand

While the cranes at work, create magic

Every brick adds words to the lyric

On every page are stories and poetries

Motivating to break boundaries

May joy and good health forever stay

As you inspire many in every way!

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