True qualities of a successful entrepreneur are self-confidence and honesty in the profession: Vijay Sankeshwar
Speaking at the Entrepreneur Development Awareness Programme organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Cell of Sharnbasva University at the Doddappa Appa Auditorium on the university’s main campus in Kalaburagi city, Mr. Sankeshwar stated that parents should nurture entrepreneurial qualities in their children from a young age to prepare them to face challenges with confidence.
Referring to his own life experiences, Mr. Sankeshwar shared that he began his entrepreneurial career at the young age of 15 when his father handed over the printing press to him. “Initially, I faced many challenges and suffered losses in all the projects I ventured into, including the transport business. However, these initial setbacks did not deter me from taking on challenges head-on to achieve success and build the VRL Group into one of the largest fleet owners in the country.”
Mr. Sankeshwar pointed out that the present generation is more focused on the academic achievements of their children, often neglecting the nurturing of other essential skills. “Until they complete their academic careers, today’s students learn little beyond what is taught in classrooms. This is a direct result of the influence of Western culture, which has overshadowed the Indian system since Independence. In contrast, countries like Japan and China have retained their traditional eastern cultures, which contain the original wisdom and values of their societies, enabling them to progress in various fields while fostering a culture of service and loyalty among their people.”
He highlighted that children in Japan are taught to clean their classrooms and toilets, as Japanese schools do not employ staff for these tasks. “This practice instills a sense of responsibility and cleanliness in children from a young age, shaping them into responsible citizens.”
Mr. Sankeshwar asserted that there is no age limit or gender restriction for becoming an entrepreneur. He cited numerous examples of individuals over the age of 60 who have found success in entrepreneurship. “Heavy investment is not a prerequisite for entrepreneurship; even with Rs 5,000, one can become an entrepreneur, or even without any capital, by taking loans. When my ventures had an annual turnover of Rs 1 crore, I carried a loan burden of Rs 6 crore, yet I maintained my confidence and remained loyal and honest to my profession to achieve success.”
He also stated that there is no retirement age and disagreed with the notion that a person should retire at 60. “I believe that individuals become more mature and productive after 60. In my company, there is no retirement age; everyone is allowed to work at VRL as long as they are productive.”
Chairperson of the Sharnabasaveshwar Vidya Vardak Sangha, Matoshree Dr. Dakshayini Avvaji, paid glowing tributes to Mr. Sankeshwar for his achievements and told the students that his life is a shining example for anyone aspiring to succeed. Secretary of the Sangha, Mr. Basavaraj Deshmukh, also spoke on the occasion.
Earlier, the 9th Peetadhipathi of the Samasthan, Chiranjivee Poojya Doddappa Appa, felicitated Mr. Sankeshwar alongside his mother, Dr. Avvaji, and sisters Kumari Bhavani, Kumari Shivani, and Kumari Maheshwari. Prominent attendees included Vice Chancellor Prof. Anilkumar Bidve, Registrar Evaluation Dr. S.H. Honnalli, Dean Dr. Lakshmi Patil Maka, Prof. Raghu Akkamanchi, and others. Registrar Dr. S.G. Dollegoudar proposed the vote of thanks.