There is no denying the fact that Aditya Birla Group is a big part of most people’s lives, whether they realize it or not. ABG being the third largest conglomerate in India, this should come as no surprise. It may be the largest telecom company in India – Vodafone Idea, largest cement company in India Ultratech cement, fourth largest supermarket in India – More, India’s first billion-dollar pre-play fashion powerhouse – Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Limited (ABFRL) or one of the numerous other brands, a person is sure to have a connection with at least one of the group’s offerings.
The more you try to know about ABG, the more you realize that it has been a part of your life in more ways than one. For me, Aditya Birla Capital has had a big impact.
It all started when one day, one of my father’s friends, who had worked as a broker for Aditya Birla Capital for a few years now, visited us. As we started talking, the conversation steered towards his work and wealth management. He introduced me to a lot of concepts like how can investing in Aditya Birla Tax Relief 96, a leading ELSS fund, can be a better option than PPF, how can debt funds be an alternative to FDs and give better returns, how to decide between different mutual funds and many more. I started reading about the various financial products available in the market and was amazed by the sheer volume of products and services offered by Aditya Birla Capital alone. It encouraged me to know and understand more about the working of financial markets. It totally changed my view of savings and investment and gave me a new direction. I dream to go big myself someday become the manager of an Aditya Birla mutual fund.
We may have been hearing quotes like ‘Nothing is impossible’ or ‘hard work pays off’ since our childhood but they really start making sense when putting your heart and soul into something and you finally get it.
Our school had a very active extra-curricular program. Debates and plays were organized very often. I always wanted to get on the stage and be a part of these competitions. I even tried once but choked up after getting on the stage which didn’t anything to boost my confidence.
When I went for my graduation in Mechanical Engineering from PEC University of Technology, Chandigarh, it was my chance to overcome my fears. Without thinking about it much, I joined the Dramatics club. Not only was I shy and hesitated to speak in public but I had never been much involved in any physical activity which was a big part of being on stage.
But this time I was not going to let anything come in my way. I worked really hard to get in shape. With the help of friends and my seniors, I was able to overcome my stage fear. Within a year, I was able to score one of the leading roles in a play. I was over the moon. That was just the beginning. I went on to be a part of a number of plays and did a variety of roles. Our team went to numerous competitions all over the country for 4 years of my graduation and won many awards for our performances.
The confidence I developed during that time not only helped me during my job but also helped me in my personal life. This taught me the power of commitment and support of friends.