#RiseToLead - Naveen Raju

I’ve always been fascinated by stories, the way words can shape worlds. As a child, my ambitions shifted with every sunrise: one day I wanted to be a journalist, the next a hotelier, and by the weekend, a lawyer. My parents, an engineer and a teacher, encouraged this spirit of exploration. They believed in curiosity over convention, and that philosophy guided my path.

After sitting for almost every entrance exam imaginable, I finally discovered my true calling at the National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bengaluru. Law appealed to my love of puzzles and narratives; every case was like a mystery waiting to be solved. More than textbooks, those years taught me independence, resilience, and the value of diverse perspectives, far from the tranquil hills of my hometown, Ooty.

When I began my career, corporate law wasn’t the dynamic arena it is today. Most law graduates preferred courtrooms or traditional firms. But over time, the legal function evolved from a support service to a strategic partner, influencing business decisions and shaping the organization’s future. That evolution deeply resonated with me.

Joining Mahindra more than a decade ago was a defining chapter. I still remember my first day, being greeted with flowers, a simple yet profound gesture that reflected the company’s warmth and culture. That sense of belonging has stayed with me ever since.

Today, as technology reshapes the legal landscape through AI, data privacy, and cybersecurity, the possibilities are immense. The law is no longer confined to rules and regulations; it’s about innovation, foresight, and ethical stewardship. Legal professionals now sit at the heart of business strategy, not on the sidelines.

To the next generation of leaders, I offer this reflection:

We grew up in an era where reputations were built through word and deed, not social media posts. Today, every thought and opinion leave a digital footprint. What you share can travel farther than you ever imagine, sometimes circling back years later. So, be mindful, be thoughtful, and let your digital presence reflect your true values.

And above all, stay authentic. The world may change, but empathy and kindness never go out of style. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn, and every new voice brings a chance to grow. I look forward to continuing that journey, learning, unlearning, and leading with purpose.