From tradition to tomorrow: PGPFMB cohort’s journey begins

The PGPFMB September batch marks another milestone in the PGPFMB journey, as SPJIMR welcomed 122 young business owners from across the country. Representing industries as diverse as dairy, jewellery, FMCG, sports, agriculture, and mining, these participants carry forward legacies spanning generations — from second to sixth generation family businesses. Participants have travelled from Mathura to Perambalur, Raniganj to Raigarh, Burhanpur to Sikar, and Hubbali to Mohali, bringing together the essence of India’s family enterprises under one roof.

The inaugural day began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, followed by a prayer honouring the sacred teacher-student relationship. Prof. Tulsi Jayakumar, Executive Director, Centre for Family Business & Entrepreneurship (CFBE), SPJIMR, addressed the gathering and highlighted the striking contrast that defined the moment: beginning with a prayer that connected participants to their roots, while Chief Guest, Mr. Abhinav Aggarwal, Co-founder of Fluid AI, represented innovation, artificial intelligence, and modernity. Prof. Jayakumar emphasised the importance of cultivating the mindset of a first-generation entrepreneur, balancing seriousness with childlike curiosity.

In his address, Mr. Aggarwal urged participants to adopt a first principles mindset, invest in personal development, and recognise the growing importance of technical expertise. He encouraged them to seek spaces for value creation and to embrace technology as a key enabler for their businesses.

The day continued with a curtain-raiser session, introducing mentors and participants to their elective heads, followed by a knowledge session for mentors and an ice-breaker activity—laying the foundation for collaborative learning.

As the batch embarks on this transformative journey, they carry not only the weight of their family legacies but also the promise of reimagining them for tomorrow. At SPJIMR, we believe true leadership lies in honouring the past while fearlessly embracing the future — and this cohort exemplifies that very spirit.