In the fast-evolving corporate landscape, few individuals manage to seamlessly integrate diverse passions into a singular vision. Dr. Ajayya Kumar Varuthyil is one such leader—a distinguished author, COO of Emircom, management thinker, startup mentor, and art curator. With a career spanning multiple industries, he continues to inspire through his leadership, mentorship, and dedication to preserving cultural heritage.
Early Life: The Foundations of a Multifaceted Career
Dr. Ajayya Kumar’s journey began in Cherpu, Thrissur, a town steeped in academic and artistic traditions. Growing up in a family of educators, he was influenced by the analytical rigor of his mathematics-teacher mother and the expressive depth of his Hindi-scholar father. This early exposure to both structured reasoning and articulate expression shaped his ability to excel in business, literature, and leadership.
Beyond academia, Kerala’s rich cultural heritage played a crucial role in shaping his worldview. Immersed in the world of Kathakali and classical performances, he observed the discipline, storytelling, and precision of these art forms. This artistic foundation later inspired the Sarvamangala Arts Initiative, a global endeavor dedicated to celebrating Indian classical arts. To Dr. Ajayya Kumar, the parallels between performing arts and strategic management are evident—both require discipline, vision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
A Passion for Business and Leadership
From the outset, Dr. Ajayya Kumar was drawn to problem-solving and strategic leadership. His professional journey began at ABB as a Management Accountant, where he quickly realized that leadership required more than just technical expertise—it demanded adaptability, resilience, and vision. Over time, his role expanded beyond finance into broader leadership responsibilities.
His transition to Emircom, a leader in the ICT sector, marked a significant milestone in his career. As COO, he plays a pivotal role in driving the company’s digital transformation and business strategy. The fast-paced nature of the technology industry keeps him engaged, while his work as a mentor and author allows him to contribute back to the community.
Dr. Ajayya Kumar attributes much of Emircom’s success to its exceptional team, acknowledging the leadership of CEO Mohamad Abou Zaki (MAZ). He believes that great leadership is not just about making decisions but about fostering an environment where growth, collaboration, and transformation thrive.
Achievements That Inspire
Among his many accomplishments, Dr. Ajayya Kumar considers his books and TEDx talk as some of his most impactful contributions. His book, Zero to Success in 369 Days, has reached readers worldwide, offering a structured roadmap for personal and professional growth. Through his writing, he has helped countless individuals unlock their potential and navigate their paths to success.
His TEDx talk, released in 2021, is listed among the Top 35 most viewed TEDx Talks worldwide, having surpassed 1 million views on YouTube. Additionally, his Mindful Parenting Masterclass for CBSE has collectively crossed 1 million views on YouTube across all 10 parts, a testament to its impact in helping parents adopt mindful and effective parenting techniques.
Dr. Ajayya Kumar has also been recognized as a Career Management Fellow (CMF) by the Institute of Career Certification International (ICCI), further establishing his thought leadership in management and career development. He has received numerous prestigious accolades, including being named Global Asian of the Year 2021-22 and World’s Best Emerging Business Leader 2022 in the author category. His contributions to literature and management thinking have earned him recognition as one of the ‘Most Influential Authors to Watch Out For – 2023’ and ‘The Most Influential Management Thinker’ by CIO Today magazine. Additionally, he was featured in Outlook’s ‘Inspiring Indians’ segment (February 2023) for his remarkable influence across multiple domains.
Beyond his literary contributions, he has been instrumental in promoting the arts through Sarvamangala and shaping business strategies that bridge corporate success with cultural enrichment. For him, achievements are meaningful when they inspire others—a philosophy that defines his leadership and mentorship approach.
Overcoming Challenges and Adapting to Change
Like any successful leader, Dr. Ajayya Kumar’s journey has not been without its challenges. Early in his career, adapting to high-pressure corporate environments and proving himself in leadership roles tested his resilience. However, each obstacle served as a stepping stone, reinforcing the importance of continuous learning and agility. His ability to navigate industry shifts and drive meaningful change has made him a respected voice in both business and academic circles.
Current Endeavors and Future Vision
Dr. Ajayya Kumar remains actively involved in various initiatives that align with his long-term mission of empowering individuals and businesses. His latest book, Zero to Success in 369 Days, is a culmination of years of experience, offering practical insights into goal-setting and self-management.
In addition to writing, he is deeply invested in Mindful Parenting, an initiative aimed at helping parents cultivate emotional intelligence, resilience, and strong values in children. Through monthly sessions co-hosted with Dr. Kiran Bedi, Demonstrative Learning, India Vision Foundation, Lifology, and the Ajayya Bharathi Foundation, he has engaged with esteemed guests, including ISRO Chairman Mr. Somnath, Dr. Shashi Tharoor, and wellness expert Luke Coutinho. These discussions provide valuable perspectives on parenting and leadership in today’s fast-changing world.
Lessons in Leadership and Legacy
Throughout his career, Dr. Ajayya Kumar has learned that true leadership is about empowering others. He believes that success is built on collaboration, resilience, and the ability to adapt. His approach to work is shaped by a belief that failure is not the opposite of success but an integral part of the journey.
His ultimate goal is to leave a lasting impact—one that goes beyond individual achievements. He aspires to be remembered as a leader who nurtured people, fostered innovation, and contributed to society through literature, mentorship, and the arts. His legacy is one of transformation, inspiring others to push boundaries, think differently, and pursue meaningful change.
Advice to Aspiring Leaders
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Ajayya Kumar shares valuable advice for young professionals:
- Embrace Change: Success is a journey of continuous growth. Stay adaptable and open to new challenges.
- Build the Right Team: Surround yourself with individuals who complement your skills and share your vision.
- Stay Close to Positivity: Avoid negativity and seek out mentors and peers who uplift and inspire you.
- Nurture Professional Relationships: Networking and collaboration can accelerate growth and open doors to new opportunities.
- Give Back: Share knowledge, mentor others, and contribute to the success of those around you.
Business Gita: A Unique Guide for Entrepreneurs
Among his many contributions, Business Gita stands out as a transformative work in business literature. Drawing inspiration from the Srimad Bhagavad Gita, this book distills complex leadership and management principles into short, engaging dialogues. Its success led to Business Gita 2.0, which offers a deeper exploration of corporate strategy and resilience.
Featured in publications like Khaleej Times and Dhanam Magazine, Business Gita has influenced discussions on leadership, workplace culture, and innovation. By bridging ancient wisdom with modern entrepreneurship, Dr. Ajayya Kumar continues to shape the future of business thinking.
Conclusion
Dr. Ajayya Kumar Varuthyil is a testament to the power of knowledge, adaptability, and vision. Whether through his leadership at Emircom, literary contributions, or cultural initiatives, he remains committed to inspiring and empowering others. As a business leader, author, and mentor, his impact transcends industries, leaving a legacy that will continue to shape the corporate and cultural landscapes for years to come.
Do follow him on @beingajayya.
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