Bharat Desai, born in November 1952, is a name synonymous with entrepreneurial success and resilience. His story is not just about building a business but about overcoming obstacles, defying odds, and carving a path to success against all expectations.
Early Life and Education of Bharat Desai
Bharat Desai’s journey began in Kenya, where he spent his formative years in Mombasa before moving to Ahmedabad. Despite the challenges of relocating, Desai’s thirst for knowledge and ambition never waned.
He pursued his education with determination, earning a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Bombay. His academic pursuits didn’t end there; he further honed his skills with an MBA in finance from the Stephen M. Ross School of Business.
From Employee to Entrepreneur
Desai’s journey took a decisive turn when he joined Tata Consultancy Services after completing his education. It was here that he gained invaluable experience in the IT sector, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors. However, Desai harbored aspirations beyond the confines of employment; he dreamt of building something of his own.
In pursuit of his entrepreneurial vision, Bharat Desai embarked on a journey to the United States, where he enrolled in the MBA program at the University of Michigan. Alongside his studies, he and his wife, Neerja Sethi, laid the foundation for what would become their legacy – Syntel.
The Birth of Syntel
Syntel, born out of Bharat Desai’s vision and determination, was not an overnight success. The early days were fraught with challenges, with the company earning a modest $30,000 in revenue in its inaugural year. However, Desai’s unwavering resolve propelled Syntel forward, despite skepticism and adversity.
Desai’s approach to business mirrored that of Tata Consultancy Services, albeit with his unique touch. He leveraged his experience and insights to navigate the competitive landscape of the American software service industry. Despite facing biases and obstacles, Desai remained undeterred, steering Syntel towards success one milestone at a time.
Overcoming Adversity
Syntel’s journey was not without its share of hurdles. The company’s innovative practices, including setting up offices in India to reduce labor costs, drew scrutiny from regulatory bodies. However, Desai’s leadership and strategic vision enabled Syntel to weather these storms and emerge stronger.
Recognition and Success
Desai’s perseverance and tenacity bore fruit, with Syntel garnering widespread acclaim and recognition. From being listed among the top 50 stocks by Money magazine to ranking high on Forbes’ list of best small companies in America, Syntel’s ascent was nothing short of remarkable. Desai’s ability to navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities solidified his reputation as a visionary entrepreneur.
Also Read:Manu Daftary: Charting the Course to Investment Success