The India Conference at Harvard this year brought together a powerhouse of influential speakers, culminating in a captivating fireside chat with Nita Ambani, the Chairperson of the Reliance Foundation. This momentous event took place on February 16 at the prestigious Harvard Business School, drawing in a crowd of eager listeners ready to be inspired by Ambani’s remarkable journey.
The conversation, skillfully moderated by Nitin Nohria, former dean of Harvard Business School, delved into the personal and profound aspects of Ambani’s life. It unveiled a narrative of resilience, dedication, and a deep-rooted commitment to building lasting institutions that transcend time and borders.
A Personal Journey Rooted in Values
Ambani’s opening remarks resonated with a poignant tale of her 90-year-old mother’s elation upon receiving an invitation to Harvard—a dream fulfilled against all odds. It was a touching moment that encapsulated the significance of this milestone in Ambani’s life journey. She then painted a vivid picture of her childhood in Mumbai’s Bapu Vila, a bustling home shared with 30 family members, where she imbibed invaluable lessons of equality and empowerment.
Growing up among 11 girls and one boy, Ambani reminisced about her parents’ belief in gender equality, instilling in her a sense of limitless potential. This foundational upbringing, along with the influence of her Gandhian grandmother and her compassionate father, shaped Ambani’s unwavering dedication to service and philanthropy.
A Legacy of Compassion and Institution-Building
At the core of Ambani’s accomplishments lies her unwavering commitment to nurturing compassionate and kind-hearted individuals—starting with her own children. Her pride in raising empathetic young minds is a testament to her belief that true impact extends far beyond personal achievements.
Furthermore, Ambani’s passion for institution-building shines through in her creation of timeless establishments such as the Dhirubhai Ambani International School, the Mumbai Indians cricket team, the Reliance Foundation Hospital, and the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre. Each of these institutions stands as a testament to her vision, drive, and unwavering dedication to excellence.
Spotlight on “Swadesh” and Artisan Support
A pivotal moment in Ambani’s journey was the inception of the “Swadesh” program, dedicated to uplifting India’s artisans and showcasing their crafts on a global platform. This initiative stemmed from a transformative visit to Nathdwara, Rajasthan, where Ambani witnessed firsthand the struggles of Pichwai artists facing financial hardships.
With a mission to empower India’s artisans and promote their work internationally, Ambani’s Swadesh initiative is a beacon of hope for millions of talented individuals. Her forthcoming Swadesh stores in New York and London mark a significant milestone in her ongoing commitment to supporting and preserving India’s rich artistic heritage.
The Magic of Institution-Building and Sports Leadership
Nohria’s admiration for Ambani’s ability to create world-class institutions in record time underscores the magic woven into her visionary approach to institution-building. Whether transforming barren lands into educational hubs or elevating a sports franchise to global acclaim, Ambani’s secret lies in her unwavering passion and purpose-driven leadership.
Ambani’s foray into sports leadership with the Mumbai Indians reveals a strategic shift from cricket enthusiast to a transformative figure in the sporting world. Her emphasis on fostering team camaraderie, nurturing young talent, and championing inclusivity has set a new standard in sports management.
As the first Indian woman elected to the International Olympic Committee, Ambani’s pivotal role in advocating for cricket’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics underscores her unwavering commitment to expanding the horizons of sports on a global stage.
Ambani’s Vision for the Future: Hosting the Olympics in India
Looking ahead, Ambani’s ambitious goal of bringing the Olympic Games to India in 2036 signals a bold step towards showcasing the nation’s potential on a global scale. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and legacy-building, Ambani envisions a transformative Olympic Games that will not only spotlight India’s capabilities but also leave a lasting impact on future generations.
The 22nd India Conference at Harvard served as a platform for thought leaders, innovators, and changemakers to converge and share their insights. From industry titans to social activists, the event encapsulated a diverse tapestry of voices, each contributing to a vibrant tapestry of ideas and initiatives aimed at shaping a brighter tomorrow.
