Leading with Heart

An informal collage of campus stories, where learners have taken extraordinary initiatives and left lasting impressions. From big celebrations to gatherings, student-led initiatives, transformational leadership—their dedication and passion truly stands out

Leadership begins with service

— Khushi Gurbani,
NSS President, BBA Finance, SBUP

As part of the National Service Scheme (NSS) unit of Sri Balaji University, Pune (SBUP), I got the opportunity to participate in the annual Pandharpur Wari (a revered pilgrimage honouring Lord Vitthal)—an experience that truly touched my heart. For me, this moment was more than a social activity, it was about deep spiritual connection, cultural immersion and selfless service.

I remember the energy of the day, when a group of volunteers from SBUP served Idli Sambar, prasad offering, and serving drinking water to thousands of pilgrims (Warkaris) passing through the city, carrying the sacred Palkhi (palanquin) of Saint Dnyaneshwar and Saint Tukaram.

I felt a shift within me. Watching devotees walk miles barefoot, chanting abhanga (devotional poetry sung in praise of Lord Vitthal) made me reflect on the power of faith, simplicity and service. Serving the Warkaris a cup of water or a plate of warm food, made me realise that this is more than an NSS duty. I was becoming part of something much larger than myself.

Being the NSS President of SBUP, I have always believed that true leadership begins with service. And, on that day, I witnessed that belief come alive. Despite the summer heat and the crowd, there was calmness in every step we took. There was unity in every action.

This experience reminded me of why I chose to be part of NSS—to give back, to learn through action, and to grow not just professionally, but personally. Whether it is organising a seven-day long residential camp in Chandkhed, leading a river clean-up or hosting blood donation drives, these opportunities have shaped me into a more grounded, empathetic person. But the Wari, with its divine spirit and selfless energy, has left a mark I will carry forever.

Excited to learn, grow, and achieve greater milestones

— Saurav Tandon,
(Jr. Student Manager, MBA-PM&HRD, BIMM)

Before joining Balaji Institute of Modern Management (BIMM), SBUP, I was quite conscious about the college's discipline and attendance policies. However, from the very first day of induction programme 'Deeksharambh', my doubts vanished. The teachers and senior student managers welcomed us and our families with such warmth, highlighting the college’s values and culture.

One of the most memorable moments was the traditional dress competition, where students showcased their cultural attire with pride and respect. It was heart-warming to see how everyone represented their heritage in such a moralistic way. I was honoured to win the 1st prize in the 'Boys category' and receive a cash award of ₹10,000—a moment I will always cherish.

This is just the beginning of my MBA journey, and I am excited to learn, grow, and achieve even greater milestones at SBUP. Looking forward to more enriching experiences ahead.

It all started when I finally said ‘No’

— Lavisha Samnani,
MBA-Marketing, Balaji Institute of Technology & Management (BITM)

Two years ago, I was stuck in a loop— overeating, feeling guilty, promising to do better, and then slipping again. I wasn’t just carrying 20 extra kilos; I was carrying the pressure to say ‘yes’ to everyone around me, even when it meant saying no to myself.

Friends would joke, “It’s just one cheat meal” or “Don’t be so dramatic”, and I’d give in, not wanting to disappoint anyone. But deep down, I was the one who felt disappointed—every single time.

One day, after eating something I didn’t even want just to please others, I asked myself, “When will you start choosing you?” That moment changed everything.

I started saying no to junk food, to guilt, to people who didn’t support me, and to habits that didn’t align with the person I wanted to become. Slowly, the weight began to drop. More importantly, I felt lighter emotionally too.

My no’s created space for better yes's:

Yes, to morning walks.

Yes, to cooking my own meals.

Yes, to believing in my own worth.

I didn’t lose 20 kgs overnight. It was a long process filled with small decisions and quiet wins. But, every time I said no to something that didn’t serve me, I was saying yes to the version of myself I had dreamed of becoming.

Today, I’m 20 kgs lighter and a thousand times stronger—not just because I changed my diet, but because I finally learned how to stand up for myself. Saying “no” isn’t selfish. It’s where real self-love begins.

Being 'Corporate Ready'

— Adity Shankar Shambhuwani,
MBA-Finance, BITM.

Completing the first year of my MBA at SBUP has truly been a life-changing experience, academically, personally and professionally. Choosing this university was undoubtedly the best decision I’ve made. It transformed me into a confident, corporate-ready individual.

Built on the pillars of discipline, determination and dedication, SBUP has shaped me with countless opportunities. Events like the 'Aiyaswamy Cultural Festival' exposed me to India’s rich diversity. While YMCA lakeside camping taught invaluable lessons in collaboration and leadership, the induction programme made our entry seamless, helping us form meaningful connections early on.

I especially cherished the corporate leadership lectures—asking questions during Q&A sessions pushed me to think critically and strengthened my industry insights. As a central coordination team member during the Youth Festival, 'Drishti 2025', I handled last-minute crises and honed my event management skills. This year wasn’t just about classroom learning; it built my confidence, communication and creative problemsolving. From once fearing the stage, I went on to own it with my public speaking at Drishti.

My corporate project studies, while interning with Finoability Pvt. Ltd., gave me real-world financial exposure, helping me understand finance beyond theory. Year one has laid a strong foundation in leadership and adaptability.

With all these learnings, I step into year two more motivated and better equipped to grow into a responsible, future-ready corporate professional.