New Delhi, Dec. 22 -- The idea of giving was inculcated in Amit Chandra by his mother and sister. Though money was scarce for the middle-class family, he volunteered his time and contributed with his skills instead.

Over a period of time, Chandra grasped the concept of 'giving while living' after meeting leaders like Venkat Krishnan, founder of GiveIndia, understanding the teachings of Guru Nanak and reading about American businessman, Chuck Feeney. It shaped the idea of philanthropy early on in his career.

"Between my wife, Archana, and I, we didn't have much spare income after paying for accommodation, but given how much the largesse of others had shaped me, I wanted to start giving back early on," says Mumbai-based Chandra, 57, Chair...