If someone advises you to keep your headphones on and put on your running shoes, you would assume it’s coming from a seasoned runner giving out tips on marathons. This one, though, came from industrialist Mukesh Ambani, who doesn’t run marathons, unlike younger brother, Anil.
Reliance Industries Limited chairman Mukesh Ambani, who is also the president of Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University (PDPU), on Sunday evening advised the 1,377 graduating students of PDPU to keep their headphones on and get into their running shoes for the ‘marathon of life’.
He told his eager audience of graduating students that he wished he could be 30 years younger to take advantage of today’s opportunities.
“If I could give you some advice in your own language, let me try: keep your headphones on. Fill your ears and minds with melodies of optimism. Tune out the critics and the cynics. People who say, ‘ Yeh nahi ho saktahai ’ (this can’t be done), treat them as noise cancellation. Dance to your own music and take some risks in life. Because it is often the risk-taker who changes the course of history, who innovates, who creates something the world desperately needs and contributes to the well-being of millions of lives,” said Ambani in his address to the students.
“Secondly, I will also tell you that apart from your headphones, put on your running shoes. But remember that personal and professional success is not a sprint but a marathon. We are lucky to be living in a dynamic world where anything is possible, but it is important to remember there are no overnight successes. You will need to be dedicated and single-minded, and there is no substitute for hard work. And also remember that this marathon of life is not a rat race. It is important to achieve our goals but not at any cost. Be compassionate as you go along and stop to help those who stumble. Be remembered not only for doing good but also for being good yourself.”
On Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mr Ambani said, “It was Narendra bhai’s vision that inspired all of us to establish and nurture the Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University. Today, he has given a vision to the entire country. ‘Make in India’ and ‘Skill India’ are powerful statements and we in the industry are fully committed to convert his vision to reality. With Start Up India and Team India, all of you have the opportunity to invent and discover India and build your own start-up.”
Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel was the chief guest at the function.
It is often the risk-taker who changes the course of history, who innovates, who creates something the world desperately needs
Mukesh Ambani
