Orientation Day: Batch 39 begins its journey

FMB Batch 39 steps into legacy with purpose, responsibility and a renewed vision for leadership. Stepping into a legacy is more than taking a seat at the table; it is about earning the responsibility that comes with it. Batch 39 embarked on this transformative journey on Orientation Day, making a shift from the mindset of a ‘college student’ to that of a ‘responsible business owner’. The day was anchored in introspection, as participants grappled with a fundamental question: Is family your strength, or is the business?

The session emphasised that legacy is not merely an advantage; it is a responsibility. When not managed thoughtfully, it can become a constraint rather than a strength.

Chief Guest Indraneel Chitale, Managing Partner, Chitale Bandhu, spoke about navigating the ‘Bhishma Paradox’, the delicate balance of knowing when and how to challenge the previous generation. From disciplined capital allocation to recognising that the organisation must always be larger than any one person, he urged participants to evolve into leaders who win hearts and trust, rather than simply command.

Prof. Tulsi Jayakumar, Executive Director, Centre for Family Business & Entrepreneurship (CFBE), challenged the cohort to balance entrepreneurial ambition with the deep-rooted values of a family business. She encouraged them to reflect on whether they are driven by a genuine love for their legacy or a mere sense of obligation. Emphasising the ’you live only once’ mindset, she called for discipline and clarity in navigating an ever-changing business environment.

The day also introduced participants to specialised electives across real estate, infrastructure, retail, manufacturing, and services, offering a glimpse of their learning journey ahead.

Orientation Day concluded on a high note with the Mentors Workshop led by Prof. Jayakumar, alongside an icebreaker session for participants. Through creative collaborative activities, the cohort began building connections.

FMB Batch 39 entered Orientation Day as individuals but left with a growing sense of camaraderie, ready to take on the learning journey ahead, together.