We are missing our principal for, he encouraged us to grow, he seemed relaxed, but knew everything that went on and intervened only when needed. He was always approachable, never rejected an idea but still told us to think it through. His presence was calming, and all students were equal to him- a compliment I earned as I stepped aside from my principal's position at Ahlcon.

I would count my tenure as principal at Ahlcon as the most rewarding. School's growth, parental trust, student's happiness, societal approval helped create the Ahlcon's brand as the most sought after place to fulfil the aspirations of the students and parents. I grew personally, too, became an author, received National Award, and chaired the National Progressive schools, a professional association of 170 schools spread across nine states.

Thirty-five years dedicated to young minds, last 23 as principal, is a journey I would love to undertake all over again, given an opportunity. I chose to work with young kids on the advice of my professor. During my long career, I have had the privilege to work with several prestigious organizations such as Rotary Public School, Gurgaon; Mayo College, Ajmer; International Indian School, Dammam, Saudi Arabia; Amity International School, Noida and Delhi Public School, Jammu. All these organizations have shaped me, my career and my thoughts, my understanding of education, teaching-learning and teacher-student relationship in a big way.

My school teacher, Late Shri SP Yadav; My University Prof, Late Dr Vipin K Agarwal sowed the seeds of a teacher in me. The first principal I worked with, the Late Col PS Satsangi and the last principal I worked with before taking up a leadership position, Gp Capt M Anwar helped me understand the principles of educational management. Dr MV Prasad, the doyen of public school education and Dr ( Mrs) Shyama Chona, Padma Vibhushan another legend are the influencers in my life.

It has been a great learning experience for me to travel to the Philippines, USA, UK, Germany, Singapore, Sri Lanka, UAE, Thailand, Australia, Singapore, Vietnam, South Korea and Tanzania on professional assignments. The opportunity to lead the principal's delegation to the University of Malta, Rice Univ, Houston, USA and the College of Leadership, Nottingham, UK helped me build an international network of school leaders.