Dedication and Acknowledgements

Acknowledgments

In the crafting of my autobiography "From Humble Beginnings to Unstoppable Success of a Lakhnawi Lad", I extend my heartfelt gratitude to those whose support and influence have enriched my journey:

·        Ms. Megha Bajaj, author of "The Breakthrough” In preface of the book wrote - “Why does anyone read a book? I read it in the hope that it will change my thought process,and, therefore my life in a beautiful way. Why does one write a book? I write to share the wisdom I receive from the world." I don’t know her personally but thanks a lot Megha for both, inspiration from your words and a concept for this work.

·        Padma Shri Ms. Thangam Philip, Principal Emeritus, IHM Mumbai, my chief mentor and a maternal figure, whose unwavering support shaped my path in the hospitality realm.

·        Late Mr. Ashok Goyal, the then In-room Dining Manager at The Taj Mahal Hotel, Mumbai for taking me first as an intern and finally recommending for my first hotel job in the same hotel. Also the then H.R. Head Mrs. Ramola Mahajani who appointed me and later other HR Heads/Executives who supported me in recruitment of my IHM students in Taj Group of hotels.

·        Mr. Sanat Kumar Mukerjie, former head of Salgaocar Hotel Division, Goa, my teacher-cum-mentor, for affording me my initial managerial breakthrough and refining my skills.

·        The dedicated team at Salgaocar Hotel Division, Goa, whose decade-long support and collaboration were invaluable.

·        Mr. M.V. Balachandar, Ex-Director, IHM Bangalore, a luminary educator and a phenomenal boss, for introducing me to hospitality education and guiding my understanding of institutional management.

·        The Board of Governors members, Union Ministry of Tourism, and NCHMCT officials, for the myriad opportunities and steadfast support throughout my extensive tenure at IHMs.

·        The faculty, administrative/support staff, and students of IHMs, whose unwavering support fueled our collective endeavors.

·        Mr. B.K. Goswami, I.A.S. (Retd.), and Sangeeta Bhatnagar, whose inspiration led to the publication of my earlier book, "Dastarkhwan-e-Awadh."

·        Ms. Shruti Johri, author of "Her Master Key" and one of my students, for invaluable advice on the manuscript and navigating the complexities of the present publishing world.

·        The dedicated team at BFC Publications, with special thanks to Gaurav Saxena, for their pivotal role in bringing this book to fruition.

·        Appreciation to insightful bloggers whose musings on the benefits of travel provided an additional inspiration.

·        Finally, my deepest gratitude to God for blessings, and to the cherished memory of my late Grandfather (Dadaji) and parents. Special thanks to late Tauji and Tai ji for their blessings, unwavering support, and kindness that shaped my life. Heartfelt appreciation to my family members, including my four lovely grandkids, whose boundless energy keeps me on the go and energetic all the time.