India, July 19 -- As I stepped into the hall, the atmosphere was calm, almost hushed. Women draped in sarees and Co-ord sets paced to and fro, to set the ambience of what had to follow. At the heart of the celebration was the soft launch of Ashok Karya, a social initiative grounded in empathy and everyday purpose. Held at the Radisson Blu MBD Hotel, the gathering marked 80 years since the birth of the group's founder, Mr Ashok Kumar Malhotra, without ever slipping into overtfestivity. Instead, it revealedas a gesture-toward reflection, and carrying something forward.

The initiative took this as an occasion to encourage the attendees to lead with purpose; through care and inclusion. Its message suggested that impactful leaders do not alwa...