On the occasion of the 74^th Independence Day, we pay respect to all those who fought for the independence of India, often paying a heavy price in the process. It is a day for us to reinforce and reiterate the idea of nation – India. It is a day to remember all of them.

In the words of Franklin D Roosevelt
“Those who have long enjoyed such privileges as we enjoy forget in time that men have died to win them.”

In post-independent India, there have been leaders who have been institution builders in the real sense. Some of the benefits we take for granted today is because of their effort. In today’s context, when there is a significant conversation around leaders as institution builders, it would be interesting to explore facets of some of the luminaries of post- independent India who have left a legacy worth celebrating and principles worth imbibing. We have picked up some quotes that highlight their views about nation-building that are as pertinent today as they were years back.

Dr. Homi Bhabha: Known as the father of the Indian nuclear program, he was also the founding professor of TIFR. “If Indian industry is to take off and be capable of independent flight, it must be powered by science and technology based in the country.”

Rukmini Devi Arundale: An Indian theosophist, dancer and choreographer of the Indian classical dance form of Bharatanatyam, known for starting Kalakshetra Foundation for revival and propagation of traditional arts. She observed, “we should never say that a thing is not modern. The very word MODERN is not Indian. It is an English word, expressing an un-Indian spirit. Our word is ETERNITY, not modernism.”

Dr. Verghese J Kurien: Credited with the white revolution in India, by which he was able to empower lakhs of farmers & milk producers in India. “India’s place in the sun would come from the partnership between wisdom of its rural people and skill of its professionals.”

Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam: Known as the “missile man” of India who later was known as the scientist, philosopher president of India, focused his efforts on building a strong technology- based, self-reliant approach to defence research and development. “Unless India stands up to the world, no one will respect us. In this world, fear has no place. Only strength respects strength.”

Dr. Vikram Sarabhai: Father of Indian space program which has achieved significant success over the last few years. “But we are convinced that if we are to play a meaningful role nationally, and in the community of nations, we must be second to none in the application of advanced technologies to the real problems of man and society.”

While all of the above, made their unique contribution to their field of pursuit, it is interesting to note some of the striking similarities they all possessed, something we believe are critical attributes to institution building.

• Driven by a purpose and grand vision – They all pursued a dream and had a grand, bold vision of what they wanted to create. All were inspired by a purpose to make a significant difference in the long term.
• The pursuit of excellence – Excellence is the central word here. They were not comfortable pursuing conventions and were at ease when required to challenge the status quo. There was no scope for shortcuts or compromises in their pursuit. It had to be excellence all the way.
• Cultivators and not hunters – They believed in investing in people by inspiring them, developing, coaching them and most importantly by building confidence in them. They were in their way, creating conditions for people to feel empowered.
• A deep desire to serve – There was a deep desire to serve others and contribute. It was less about personal glory and more about making a difference to others around them.
• Setting a personal example – A consistent and distinct attribute of all great institution builders is the personal example they set for others to emulate. Hard work and sustained commitment to the idea that they pursued was their unique signature.

In essence, it requires a) a fanatic obsession with an idea to create something of value and the solemn pride associated with it, b) a deep commitment to investing in people to ensure that the concept thrives well beyond their life through an empowered set of individuals c) the willingness to pursue their vision for an extended period through all its ups and downs without ever wavering from the path chosen and d) impeccable integrity.

Who says anyone can do institution building? We often take our institutions for granted. It can be done by a few only who believe in giving. We bow our heads, remembering those chosen few and the legacy they have left behind.