_A Journey Close to My Heart - Knight Frank India’s CSR Story
In quiet moments of reflection on my journey with Knight Frank India, it’s always the human stories that stir my thoughts. My mind drifts not to the spreadsheets or the high-stakes deals, but to something far more profound — the stories of people whose lives we've touched. This is what I picture often — a career spanning over 45 years, weaving through the vibrant world of hospitality, the dazzling realm of entertainment, and now, the dynamic landscape of real estate. Each chapter has been a unique adventure, but it’s at Knight Frank India where I've stumbled upon a revelation that goes beyond financial figures and market trends.
Over a decade ago, the Knight Frank India CSR story began, in the simplest of ways. It started with a single initiative — a commitment to Project Nanhi Kali, which focuses on the education of underprivileged girls in India. What seemed like a modest effort at first quickly became a powerful call to action — a mission that resonated deeply with my personal belief that education, and particularly that of the girl child, marks the cornerstone of sustainable growth and development. Education has the transformative power to unlock potential and enable individuals to shape their own futures. And here was an opportunity to act on that belief, to turn it into a reality for thousands of young girls.
I remember the early days vividly—how our employees, driven by a shared passion, came together to support these girls. For us, it wasn’t just about charity; it was about giving these girls a chance at a brighter future. Each one of them wasn’t just a number or a name on a list — they were stories of resilience, dreams, and the relentless pursuit of a better life. I have seen firsthand how the spark of education can ignite change — not just in individual lives but in entire communities. It’s about more than just providing funding — it’s about laying a foundation of hope and strength that these young girls can build upon, brick by brick.
As our CSR efforts grew, so did our commitment to making a broader impact. We began venturing into new territories, collaborating with local communities to address specific educational needs. I recall one recent project vividly — a STEM lab in a tribal school in Mulshi. Watching the children's eyes light up as they explored the wonders of science for the first time was a moment that reinforced the power of our work. In that instant, I saw more than curiosity. I saw future scientists, engineers, and thinkers — children who now had the tools to dream bigger and aim higher.
Another project close to my heart was in Shahapur, where we built a safe washroom facility for a school catering to hearing-impaired children. I visited the site and met the children, who were filled with joy and gratitude. For them, this new facility was more than just a necessity — it was a message that their dignity and safety mattered. It was a reminder that true impact is often found in the small, meaningful actions that touch lives in ways we can hardly imagine.
Being inducted into the Group Executive Board of Knight Frank was indeed a significant milestone in my career. However, it is our CSR work that fills me with the greatest pride. It serves as a testament to the power of business to do good, and it reminds me of the incredible potential we have, to make a difference when we lead with purpose and heart. Every initiative, every partnership, and every story of transformation reaffirms my belief that our journey is not just about giving back, it's about giving forward. It's about planting seeds of kindness and opportunity that will grow and flourish long after we are gone.