Neil Banerjee
In the heart of India’s thriving business landscape, family-run enterprises hold a special place. They are not just about profit and loss; they are also about shared dreams, values, and a legacy passed down through generations. At the centre of this legacy is the unique bond between fathers and children who work together, building empires and nurturing relationships.
We delve into some of the heartwarming stories of fathers and their children who have joined forces and are navigating the complexities of the business world as well as preserving family values and legacies.
The green revolution: A father’s vision for sustainable mobility
Jitendra Shah, a veteran of the Indian automotive industry, had a vision. A vision for a future where transportation was not just efficient but also environmentally responsible. This led him to establish Jitendra EV, a company dedicated to electric vehicles.
He forayed into electric vehicles from traditional automobiles 14 years ago. “Our decision to pivot to electric vehicles in 2010 was driven by a vision for a sustainable future,” Jitendra reminisces, adding, “The growing environmental impact of traditional automobiles was increasingly concerning, prompting us to seize the opportunity to pioneer the EV space in India.”
Jitendra’s vision didn’t stop there. He recognised the potential in his son, Samkit, who shared his passion for innovation and sustainability. After completing his education and gaining experience in the automobile industry, Samkit joined Jitendra EV, ready to take on the challenges of this emerging sector.
Samkit adapted to the challenges and opportunities of this sector quite fast.
“When I joined Jitendra EV, I was excited by the potential of the EV industry but also aware of the significant challenges ahead,” he admits, adding, “Adapting to the sector involved staying abreast of technological advancements, understanding regulatory requirements, and continuously learning from global trends.”
Together, this father-son duo has steered Jitendra EV to rapid growth and success. They have introduced key innovations in battery technology, electric drivetrains, and customer-centric features. Their shared commitment to a sustainable future has not only propelled their business forward but has also contributed to a greener India.
The education legacy: Nurturing young minds
Dilip Gangaramani’s passion for education led him to set up Target Publications, a leading educational resource provider in India. His daughter, Simran, grew up surrounded by books and a love for learning.
For Simran, being raised among books shaped her approach towards education and learning. “Growing up in a family deeply involved in the education sector was a unique and enriching experience. I had constant access to a vast library of educational resources created by our publishing house. This was a tremendous privilege and definitely aided my studies,” she asserts.
Simran’s upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for the power of education to transform lives. After completing her studies at IIT Madras, she joined Target Publications, bringing a fresh perspective to the family business. Her insights into the needs of today’s students have been invaluable in shaping the company’s digital resources and interactive learning platforms.
Simran aspires to take a key role in Target Publications and steer it to greater heights.
“My current focus is on learning and contributing meaningfully to the online sales and social media teams. In the future, I would be honoured to take on a leadership role in Target Publications,” she says.
Dilip’s mentorship and Simran’s innovative ideas are a testament to the power of collaboration between generations in a family business. Together, they are shaping the future of education in India.
“One of the biggest challenges has been striking the right balance between offering guidance yet giving my daughter the space to develop her own leadership approach. While I share my knowledge, it’s important for her to make her own decisions and learn from them. Fostering open communication and being receptive to her ideas—even if they differ from mine—are key,” Dilip says.
“Fathers should allow fresh perspectives and new approaches. Be open to their (children’s) ideas and encourage open communication to bridge any generational gaps. Their unique viewpoint can be an asset to the business. Delegate tasks, give them ownership of projects, and trust their decisions. This will build their confidence and prepare them for future leadership roles,” he adds.
Power of collaboration: A father-daughter duo building dreams
Subhash Goel, the founder of Goel Ganga Developments, a renowned real estate firm, has always valued quality, integrity, and customer focus. His daughter, Gunjan, shares these values and brings her unique skills and perspective to the business.
Gunjan has pursued business management studies and has transitioned to a career in real estate quite well.
“I always had an inclination towards the field of real estate due to watching my father being passionate and committed towards his work. Upon entering the sphere of business management studies, I realised the potential of the real estate’s sphere and its complex and diverse nature,” she says.
Gunjan’s academic background in business management has equipped her with the analytical and strategic thinking skills necessary to excel in the real estate industry. She has also embraced technology and data analysis to improve efficiency and implement sustainable practices in the company’s projects.
But did she approach real estate development differently than her father? Gunjan explains, “On the one hand, it is critical for me to honour my father and embrace the fundamental principles that he imparted within me, but at the same time, it is crucial to acknowledge the value of a changing market and customers.”
Subhash and Gunjan’s collaborative approach to leadership has resulted in a successful synergy of experience and innovation. They work together seamlessly, leveraging their respective strengths to drive Goel Ganga Developments towards continued growth and success.
“I think that Gunjan and I have a great relationship and a very good core leadership style. She has the creativity and the precious word-of-mouth information about an up-to-date market while I give insights and advice accumulated after years in the industry. We communicate transparently and coordinate with each other; leveraging knowledge to make sound decisions that can lead to organisational and customer goodwill,” Subhash Goel contends.
A legacy of innovation: environmental control solutions
Deepak Pahwa’s pioneering spirit led him to introduce the concept of dehumidification in India back in 1979. His company, Bry-Air, has since become a global leader in environmental control solutions.
“In 1979, India was on the cusp of industrialisation, and there was a growing need for advanced environmental control technologies. I was inspired by the potential to improve manufacturing processes and product quality across various industries,” he recalls.
Deepak’s son, Varun, has inherited his father’s passion for innovation and has played a key role in expanding the company’s global footprint.
Varun’s global experience came in handy at DRI. “My global experience has been instrumental in shaping my leadership approach at DRI. Exposure to diverse markets and cultures has provided me with a broader perspective on business strategies and innovation,” he asserts.
Together, Deepak and Varun envision a future where Bry-Air and the Pahwa Group, another sister company they have formed, continue to lead in environmental control solutions while expanding into new markets and technologies. Their shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric growth ensures that the company’s legacy of excellence will endure.
These fathers and children have shown us that family businesses can thrive when built on a foundation of shared values, mutual respect, and a willingness to embrace change. They have demonstrated that the familial bond can be a powerful force that can buoy businesses.
As we honour these fathers and their children, we are reminded that the greatest legacy a father can leave is not just a successful business, but also the values, knowledge, and entrepreneurial spirit that will continue to inspire their future generations.
