Alumni Speak
‘Be grateful for what you have, while being determined to achieve more’
The alumnus from Apeejay School, Nerul, calls on everyone to keep their moral compass aligned
Chartered Accountant by day and musician by night, Nakshatra Deepak Gupta balances balance sheets with blazing guitar riffs. A 2009 graduate of Apeejay School, Nerul, he looks back on corridors that shaped his ambition and creativity. In a candid conversation, he revisits classroom memories, mentors, and milestones, sharing the sweet nostalgia that turned his alma mater into the backdrop of the best days of his life, with enduring gratitude always.
What are you doing professionally now?
I am practising as a Chartered Accountant, specialising in expert consulting, advisory, and strategic management. Though my expertise lies in consulting, having an experience of over a decade post qualification, I am an auditor with four nationalised banks.
What’s the most important advice you would give to aspiring CA students?
To aspiring CA, CS, CMA or any other commerce field students, I say this; You must never restrict yourselves to any field and be open to all subjects and knowledge. Often, we come across a rigidity in learning from areas beyond the commerce scope, especially when dealing with new articled trainees and youngsters.
Share your favourite nostalgia from school days.
Having spent my best years at Apeejay School, Nerul, it is hard to point to a favourite nostalgic moment. After all, there are so many of those. One that comes to mind is again with respect to the Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values. I also can’t help but feel nostalgic about moments when we did relief work among flood victims of the 2006 deluge or with orphans during my time presiding over the Interact Club.
Any pearls of wisdom for school students?
Remember to take every opinion, fact and happening as per your needs. What may apply to you may not apply to others and vice versa. Resist peer pressure and maintain a calm approach. In the end, it is the tortoise who wins, not the hare.
How does music change your moments in life?
Music is that one sanctuary that my spirit has had a place in since my childhood. Both my sister and I were initially taught by our mother. We were fortunate to have been brought up in a home where our parents encouraged music. An equally instrumental role was that of my alma mater, where we had not only the opportunity to sharpen our skills but also to perform at various events. I try to learn new things pertaining to music every day. It goes a long way to have a musical background, especially when a lot of intellectual work is involved. It also keeps one spiritual and grounded.
