On May 1st, Symbiosis International University’s Dubai Campus will host a conference titled “The Power of People.” What makes this event even more special is that the theme has been thoughtfully conceptualized by our very own MBA students — and it instantly resonated with me.
We are honoured to welcome not only celebrated director, screenwriter, and cinematographer Mr. Kabir Khan, but also Dr. Kiran Bedi, India’s first woman to join the officer ranks of the Indian Police Service. Both distinguished guests embody the spirit of the conclave’s theme through their remarkable journeys, each having mobilized people toward creating extraordinary change. I am personally looking forward to the opportunity to converse with them and hear their insights into how the power of people has shaped their work.
Reflecting on Dr. Kiran Bedi’s career, one cannot help but admire how she exemplified the transformational power of collective action. During her tenure at Tihar Jail, one of India’s largest and most notorious prisons, she initiated sweeping reforms by involving the very people often neglected — the prisoners themselves. Through programs of education, meditation, vocational training, and a focus on human dignity, she harnessed the collective potential of inmates and staff alike, turning Tihar into a model for prison reform. Her work stands as a shining example of how sustainable change is possible when people are empowered and included in the process.
This conclave made me reflect on a fundamental question: What truly defines the success of an organization? Is it the brilliance of a few individuals at the top? Or is it the collective effort of every person working toward a shared vision?
From my journey at Symbiosis, I can confidently say that it is the collective hard work of over 5,000 employees that has built our institution into what it is today. Similarly, the achievements of our students — in every sphere they excel — continue to add to Symbiosis’ legacy and pride.
Interestingly, May 1st also holds deep historical significance. It is celebrated as Maharashtra Day (Maharashtra Diwas), marking the formation of the state of Maharashtra in 1960, when Maharashtra and Gujarat were carved out of the Bombay State based on linguistic lines. Moreover, across India and many parts of the world, May 1st is observed as Labour Day — a day dedicated to honouring the contributions and achievements of workers.
History teaches us a timeless lesson: Success is never the result of a single individual’s effort. It is always the outcome of collective endeavor — of communities coming together, of people supporting each other, and of shared visions being pursued with passion. This belief was deeply instilled in me by my father, Dr. S.B. Mujumdar. He has always emphasized the importance of creating a culture of belongingness within an organization — treating every member as part of a family. When a colleague falls ill, we must visit them. In times of loss, we must offer our condolences. And when someone celebrates a success — even a birthday — we should come together to celebrate. It is through such genuine gestures of care and recognition that people feel truly valued. And when people feel valued, they contribute with even greater dedication and love.
Just as a family thrives on shared values, traditions, and emotional bonds, an organization too must nurture its own culture — its sanskaras. These bonds, rooted in mutual respect, empathy, and care, form the very foundation of an organization’s strength and resilience.
Today, as technology evolves rapidly — with AI, digital transformation, and countless innovations reshaping how we work — it is crucial to remember: Technology is merely a tool.
The real power behind every success story remains people — their wisdom, creativity, compassion, and passion. No matter how much we invest in upgrading our technology, the true and enduring strength of any organization will always rest in its people.
At Symbiosis, we believe in this truth deeply. And through every initiative, every achievement, and every challenge we overcome — it is the power of people that carries us forward.