MY BIGGEST ACHIEVEMENT WAS PROTECTING L& T FROM SEVERAL TAKEOVER THREATS.

AM Naik, Group Chairman, Larsen & Toubro

Anil Manibhai Naik, better known as AM Naik, is a name synonymous with the engineering giant Larsen & Toubro (L&T). Even at the age of 78, Naik is passionate about his 'work'.

What are your hobbies and how do you nurture them while being in busy schedule?

In my youth, I was an avid sportsman and used to play a lot of sports especially badminton and cricket. In college, I was also the Sports Association Secretary. I was very fond of watching movies.

Once I started working, my priorities shifted. Work is my passion andI spend most of the time at work and also on my philan thropic activities. I run two trusts which focus on education, healthcare and skill building in Mumbai and south Gujarat.

Iam also very passionate about wildlife - whether watch sing it as being on a safari or on TV. In the evenings, I like to unwind with a game of cards, before calling it a night.

Which is your favourite movie/ actor?

In my younger days, I was a film buff and could watch films endlessly. Dilip Kumar was my favourite actor, and Naya Daur, my favourite movie. I love listening to old Hindi film songs while relaxing at home. Of the recent crop of movies, 'MS Dhoni', struck a chord with me and I have already seen the movie many times. I admire the young man in real life and reel life - and can identify with their struggle and hard work to achieve success against all odds.

Which is your favorite vacation destination & how often do you visit that place? Also, tell us about your favourite food.

I have travelled extensively across the globe for work. My love for wildlife has taken me to Africa - both East and South - where I enjoy the safaris and watching wildlife in their natural habitat.

As far as food habits go, I am a strict vegetarian and prefer Gujarati cuisine and fried food. I love sweetmeats and my favourite one is a thick, rich bowl of 'basundi'.

Tell us about your role model and how he has inspired you.

My father is my role model. The tenets of discipline, hard work and sense of obligation of
giving back to the society, all have come from my father and my grandfather. These beliefs form an integral part of my way of life and also drive my passion for philanthropy.

What according to you is the biggest achievement of your life?

L&T is my life. L&T and my name are often mentioned in the same breath. My biggest achievement was protecting L&T from several takeover threats. In a masterstroke, I managed to retain the professional character of the company and also enabled thousands of employees to become stakeholders of L&T. The impact of both these achievements changed the course of the corporate history.

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