Where do I begin? For me, Boss was my mentor as well as a guru. Being so much in awe of him I never used the word friend for him, though we had a good rapport and shared great friendly moments and have spent so much time alone also. He believed in working hard and partying even harder.

I met Boss first when I was a 23-year-old young rookie who had just joined TOI. I did not get to interact much with him as he was the Big Boss. My first close interaction was when I was chosen to be his RUNNER during events. In fact, as I had a good physique, many thought I was his bodyguard. During events, I was around him 24/7 and that's when I saw why he was the boss ..a perfectionist with a superb eye for details, someone who never compromised.

Most don't know I had left TOI when OUTLOOK was launched, to head west market. It was then that I realised how different TOI culture was from any other organization. So, in 3 odd months, I was called back by boss and I rejoined TOI. 

I finally left Times in 1999 with Boss's blessings to join STAR as television was the emerging medium. Around 2005 February I got a call from Boss asking me to meet him at Taj chambers. At that time I  was heading multiple channels at Star India. But when he asked me if I would join Zee I agreed immediately without blinking an eyelid. Zee, in those days, was in complete doldrums. I joined Boss and the rest is history. Many don't give credit for Zee's revival to Boss, but it was he who attracted talents like me and many others who came in and made Zee what it is today.

He made us believe and gave complete empowerment which was the biggest catalyst for me...fully empowered.

Boss also always backed his people. I don't think he has ever sacked anyone. He believed everyone is important and everyone can do something. But at the same time, Boss knew how to push horses to their limit.

Boss gave me and many others in this industry, lifestyle and exposure. I travelled the world with him attending forums and conferences etc. He was always confidence personified, which rubbed off on us and made us what we are today.

He was a true superstar of media and entertainment who believed in his product and price. He taught us to multi-task and always knew how to stretch us and rewarded us. 

I  will always miss Boss who was my mentor, guide and sounding board.