‘Gurur Brahma, Gurur Vishnu is the motto of my life’

Meet Gautam Chopra, a devoted family man who runs a successful yarn-manufacturing business in Delhi. Chopra happily recalls his days at Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park where he cracked the code to successfully survive in the world and owes all the credit back to his teachers and staff at the school.

In a candid interview, he speaks about his most nostalgic memories among other things.

Tell us about yourself.

I am an MBA graduate. I did my schooling at the prestigious Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park from 2003-04. Right now I am leading a business of yarn manufacturing and have three facilities in Delhi-NCR catering to local as well as International demands. 

What does a typical day look like? 

My day starts quite early. I start by getting my little one ready for school, then a session of yoga at 8 am. After that, I head to the office where my meetings are scheduled. I am back home by 6 in the evening, my day ends with spending time with my daughter and family daily.

Tell us about your school life.

I have been in Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park since nursery. Though I wasn’t a familiar face in school and an average student in games I was decent in academics and had the privilege of being taught by the most experienced teachers; the list is very long. I made friends who are still in touch with me to date. Once I scored low grades in class XI but the teachers were very supportive and guided me well during those times which helped me build a bright future.

Share a few nostalgic memories from Apeejay.

All of us have a list of memories from school but list them all down. I remember the Annual Appreciation Day celebrations which were always special. All the students were given a chance to perform and no one judged us for not performing well during primary classes. We were also taught to excel in the volunteering duties assigned to us.

How were the teachers at Apeejay?

The school was backed by well-experienced teachers. All the teachers were very helpful and encouraging. There is a very popular shloka in Sanskrit- Gurur Brahma Gurur Vishnu, so following that our teachers were the creator and the preserver of our present and the future. The foundation laid by our school teachers has helped me a lot in my professional as well as personal life. 

What are your dreams and goals in life?

My dream and goal in life is -to be a better human being

Any message for the students of the school.

Always listen to the teachers and your parents since they guide us to a better future. They might sound very boring or unreasonable but trust me they are always right since they have more experience. When we are in school we always look forward to entering the next step in the world but trust me you will always miss your school days once out of it.  

Your comments on the brain drain trend.

India is a land of infinite opportunities and is the home of the best education system (AIIMS, IIT, DU, IIMs), so aim for good institutes and you will be ahead of the world. I am a frequent flyer and when I meet people around the globe they always tell me that India’s education system is one of the finest education systems in the world.

How did Apeejay help you hone your skills?

At Apeejay we were always given plenty of chances to prove ourselves. This school gave me the confidence to perform on stage and speak my thoughts without any fear. The teachers, principal, and vice-principal were always available to help us. The backbone of the institute Founder-Chairman, Dr Stya Paul visited us during school events. Apeejay certainly stands true to its motto: Soaring High is my Nature!