Sarabjit Hora’s journey to success is a testament to the power of perseverance, self-improvement, and the value of overcoming challenges. Today, he is a respected Chartered Accountant (CA), a leader in his field, and a prominent figure in his community. But his path to success was not always smooth. From his childhood experiences to his rise as an influential figure, Sarabjit’s story offers a wealth of inspiration for anyone striving to achieve greatness.
Sarabjit Hora: A Defining Moment in Childhood
Looking back, one of the defining moments of Sarabjit Hora’s life occurred when he was just a child, around the age of 9 or 10. He vividly recalls visiting his father’s office, where, curious and eager, he sat in his dad’s chair and began reading through the papers on the desk. The unexpected arrival of a senior staff member shifted the atmosphere, and Sarabjit was politely asked to leave the chair. The staff member explained that only after becoming a Chartered Accountant would he be able to sit there.
This interaction had a profound effect on him. Sarabjit took this as a challenge, and from that day forward, he set his sights on becoming a Chartered Accountant, understanding that it was a mark of distinction, respect, and responsibility. Motivated by this experience, he diligently worked towards this goal, clearing his CA exams on the first attempt at the age of 22.
Reflecting on this moment, Sarabjit says, “Though I still hesitate to sit on my dad’s chair, having my own chamber, I cherish the powerful message I received as a child. It ignited a fire within me to prove myself and carve my own path in life.”
The Importance of Education and Early Struggles
Sarabjit Hora’s education journey was not without challenges. As part of his CA course, he underwent a rigorous three-year training period at a CA firm in Kolkata, a move that took him far from his hometown and out of his comfort zone. Kolkata, a bustling metropolis, exposed Sarabjit to a diverse range of people and experiences. The city, known as a hub for students from across Eastern India, provided Sarabjit with an invaluable opportunity to broaden his perspectives.
In Kolkata, Sarabjit Hora learned the value of money and resourcefulness. Simple yet powerful lessons, like befriending the bus conductor for credit, managing finances on a tight budget, and balancing internship work with tuition, became part of his daily routine. Interacting with fellow students, some from affluent backgrounds and others who were the sole hope of their families, provided Sarabjit with a wealth of real-life experiences that shaped his character.
“The CA course with its level playing field and equal opportunities reinforced my belief that hard work can overcome any background,” he shares. These lessons proved crucial not only in his education but also in shaping his personality and work ethic.
Choosing the Path of Chartered Accountancy
Sarabjit Hora’s decision to pursue Chartered Accountancy was a natural extension of his childhood fascination with finance. From a young age, he was captivated by annual budget presentations and the ways in which the nation’s economy was shaped. By the time he embarked on his CA journey, he was clear on his passion for commerce and business.
However, he had no idea that this career choice would lead him to a world full of evolving opportunities. In his early days, Sarabjit focused solely on clearing the CA exams. Over the next 12 years of practice, he realized that Chartered Accountancy was no longer a job confined to auditing; it had become a versatile profession, with Chartered Accountants now leading businesses, driving economies, and influencing industries.
Reflecting on his career, Sarabjit Hora says, “Gone are the days when CAs were only auditors. Today, we are at the forefront of various industries, shaping the direction of businesses and economies. I’m proud to have chosen this profession, which has brought me immense respect and a fulfilling career.”
Achievements Beyond Profession
While Sarabjit Hora’s professional success as a Chartered Accountant is remarkable, it is his holistic approach to life that truly stands out. Sarabjit’s biggest achievement lies not in awards or positions but in his constant pursuit of self-improvement. Over the years, he has dedicated himself to learning new skills and growing both personally and professionally.
This year, for example, he embarked on a fitness journey at the age of 34, something he had never pursued before. Although the progress is gradual, it has filled him with immense joy. “Every year, I strive to better myself in some way. It’s important to never stop growing,” he says.
Beyond personal development, Sarabjit has also made significant contributions to various organizations. He serves as the Secretary of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, Siliguri Branch, which is one of the most vibrant branches in the country. He is also a certified faculty with Lions International and has been a speaker at over 300 sessions for organizations like CII, ICAI, and Lions International. His leadership roles are numerous, having also served as the past GST Study Group Chairman of Siliguri Taxation Bar Association and as the Cabinet Treasurer of Lions International, District 322F.
Sarabjit Hora commitment to community service is also evident in his role as the Treasurer of Punjbai Biradari of North Bengal and as a member of the Siliguri Gurudwara Committee.
Overcoming Early Career Challenges
The transition from student to professional was not easy for Sarabjit Hora. Upon qualifying as a Chartered Accountant, the expectations were high, and the pressure to live up to his father’s legacy weighed heavily on him. The burden of responsibility in his father’s firm, combined with the self-doubt and perfectionism he struggled with, made the early years of his career particularly challenging.
However, Sarabjit learned to cope with these pressures over time. “It took me three years to realize that I was caught in a cycle of self-imposed pressure,” he admits. This self-awareness helped him find a balanced approach to his work, easing the intense anxiety that came with being in a position of responsibility so early in his career.
The Road Ahead
As Sarabjit Hora looks to the future, his goals continue to evolve. Currently, he is working as a Chartered Accountant in various domains, managing a firm with a 40-year legacy. He is also involved in consulting, helping clients with business development, process upgrades, and system enhancements. Despite his success, he is drawn to the real estate sector, fascinated by its potential for growth and development.
Looking further ahead, Sarabjit is eager to explore public speaking and mentorship. He envisions himself helping professionals and businesspeople navigate the challenges they face, sharing the insights he has gained over the years. “It’s a long-term goal, but I’m confident that I will achieve it,” he says.
Finding Inspiration and Staying Motivated
For Sarabjit Hora, inspiration comes from a variety of sources. He draws motivation from his parents, who overcame numerous challenges to establish themselves as respected figures in their community. He is also inspired by his four-year-old son, who, despite his age, displayed an incredible ability to pick up skills like playing the tabla just by watching videos.
Sarabjit is quick to emphasize that inspiration can come from anyone, at any time. He believes in picking up good qualities from every person he encounters and using them to shape his own life for the better.
When faced with setbacks or challenges, Sarabjit remains steadfast and positive. “Challenges are the essence of life. They are the building blocks that shape us into who we are,” he reflects. For him, the key is not to be deterred by obstacles but to view them as opportunities for growth and self-improvement.
The Power of Life’s Lessons
Perhaps one of Sarabjit Hora’s most profound lessons came during a deeply personal experience. When preparing for his CA finals, he had to prioritize family over exams as his uncle fell gravely ill. This unexpected shift in focus taught him the importance of humanity and compassion. “Nothing is more important than life and the people we love,” he reflects. “When you do the right things, there is always a higher power that looks after you.”
Sarabjit Hora’s journey is a powerful reminder that success is not only about professional accolades but also about how we navigate life’s challenges, grow from them, and ultimately use our experiences to better the world around us.
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