You started as an engineer at BHEL, what key moments led you to shift toward strategy and transformation consulting?

I started my career as an engineer at BHEL, working in process engineering on steam turbines. While the technical experience was valuable, I found myself increasingly drawn to the strategic side of problem-solving. With a long-standing interest in consulting, I decided to pursue an MBA through the CAT and join IIM, aiming to combine my engineering background with business skills to help organizations solve complex challenges and drive impact.

Did you always know this was something you wanted to do?

I never imagined I'd be pursuing a business career. At BITS, my primary interest was in research, and I spent most of my time diving deep into mechanical subjects and consistently scoring well. I even prepared for the GRE, aiming for a more technical path. But after graduating, I joined BHEL in Hyderabad, where working in process engineering exposed me to large-scale operations and sparked an unexpected interest in strategy and problem-solving beyond the technical realm. That shift in perspective eventually led me to take the CAT and join IIM, driven by a new ambition: to become a consultant and solve business challenges with both analytical and strategic depth.

One book that significantly impacted your approach to consulting, as well as one  historical person you would want to consult?

“Thinking, Fast and Slow” by Daniel Kahneman helped me prepare for consulting by teaching me how to navigate decision-making biases. Understanding when to trust intuition versus when to engage in deeper analysis is crucial for solving complex problems and delivering sustainable solutions for clients. As for the person, Albert Einstein has always inspired me with his deep curiosity and ability to think outside the box. His approach to problem-solving, blending intense focus with moments of reflection, motivates me to tackle challenges with creativity and persistence.

What’s the most unconventional solution you’ve ever implemented at work?

For an automotive parts manufacturer aiming to reduce costs, I suggested an unconventional approach: using lean manufacturing to optimize resource consumption. By leveraging data analytics, we streamlined production, reduced energy usage, and improved material efficiency, Cutting costs while maintaining quality.

How did BITS help in this, and how can students exploit the resources here if they wish  to get to the stage he’s at right now?

BITS helped me immensely in terms of network and friendships. Many of my friends were preparing for an MBA, and their influence played a role in shaping my perspective. A key take away from my time there was the value of this network. Since I had good grades, I also received strong references from professors, which proved helpful later.

What was the biggest challenge you faced in your career, and how did you tackle it?

The biggest challenge I’ve faced in corporate and external consulting is finding the balance between the company’s pressure to deliver results at any cost and the need to uphold ethical principles while delivering sustainable solutions for clients. The company often expects quick, impactful outcomes, while clients demand results that are not only effective but also morally and ethically sound. Navigating this delicate balance requires bending corners at times, but the risk lies in compromising both your reputation and the company’s integrity if the results aren’t aligned with long-term values.

What’s your fondest memory of your time at BITS?

One of my fondest memories from college is how beautifully chaotic and full of energy everyday life was. Amid all the academic hustle, I made sure to stay grounded through sports. I played tennis in the mornings, often skipping early classes, followed by badminton in the evening, and football at night. Spending 3–4 hours a day playing sports kept me energized, focused, and refreshed. It was the perfect counterbalance to the classroom