The School of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL), in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) MBA – PGPX program, hosted a distinguished session as part of the LEADER’s TALK

Leadership Series and the MBA – PGPX Speaker Series. The keynote address was delivered by Mr. Ajay Piramal, Chairman of the Piramal Group, on the theme “Eternal Values in a Changing World.” In his thought-provoking session, Mr. Piramal emphasised the enduring significance of integrity, compassion, and ethical leadership, particularly during periods of volatility and transformation.

Drawing from his extensive global business experience, he illustrated how values-based leadership not only builds long-term trust but also fosters sustainable success in an increasingly unpredictable world. According to him, while markets and industries may constantly evolve, core values serve as an unwavering compass that guides leaders through change and uncertainty.

A key highlight of Mr. Piramal’s discussion was the seamless integration of timeless ethical principles with modern innovation, demonstrating how values-driven businesses can create significant economic value. He shared insightful anecdotes from his leadership journey, reinforcing the idea that change is inevitable, but values are eternal. These values, he emphasized, are vital for effective decision-making, resilience, and meaningful growth in both personal and professional spheres.

Mr. Piramal also reflected on the importance of compassion and empathy in leadership, urging future leaders to focus on creating positive impact while building profitable enterprises. His personal experiences highlighted how businesses that prioritize the well-being of their employees, customers, and society at large ultimately achieve more sustainable growth and lasting success.

The event featured an engaging interactive Q&A session, where participants—ranging from business executives and students to young entrepreneurs—had the rare opportunity to engage directly with Mr. Piramal. He answered questions on navigating business challenges, balancing profitability with ethical responsibility, and the evolving role of leadership in a globalized world.

Dr. Hasmukh Adhia, Vice Chairman of SOUL, delivered closing remarks, emphasizing the deeper dimensions of leadership beyond management. He noted that true leadership is an internal mindset shaped by values and ethics, which empower leaders to remain grounded while driving transformation. His reflections on leadership resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the session’s core theme of aligning eternal values with contemporary leadership practices.

The event attracted a diverse audience, including IIMA faculty, students from multiple universities, and business leaders from across the country. It served as a powerful platform for thought exchange, reaffirming SOUL’s mission to cultivate ethical, values-driven leadership and IIMA’s commitment to fostering global business excellence.

Through such sessions, the LEADER’s TALK Leadership Series continues to inspire emerging leaders to navigate the complexities of modern business while staying rooted in timeless principles.