It’s no secret that Indians have an outsized influence in the tech world, especially in the US, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has an interesting take on why that’s the case.
In a recent conversation with Lex Fridman, a computer scientist and AI researcher, Modi delved into the cultural underpinnings that he believes contribute to the success of Indian tech leaders in the United States. His insights, rooted in core Indian values, provide a fascinating perspective on the driving forces behind this phenomenon. The discussion ranged from cultural values to family structures and their influence on leadership abilities, offering a nuanced understanding of what sets Indian professionals apart.
“Many of the top tech leaders – first of all, tech talent, but tech leaders in the US – are of Indian origin. Sundar Pichai, Satya Nadella… you’ve met with some of them. What spirit of their Indian origins do you think they carry in them that enables them to be so successful?” Fridman asked.
Modi replied, “Look, Indian culture emphasizes that there should be equal respect for the place where you’re born and the place where you work. There should be no difference. As much as there is dedication to the land of birth, there should be the same sense of dedication to the land of work. You should always give your best, whatever you are.”
He continued, “Because of these rich cultural values, every Indian strives to give their best effort regardless of their role or position. They don’t wait until they’re in senior roles, even in smaller roles. Secondly, they never get involved in anything questionable or unethical. They tend to remain dedicated to what’s right and ethical. Their nature is collaborative; they usually get along with others.”
“Eventually, for success, just having knowledge isn’t enough. The ability to work effectively as part of a team matters significantly more. Understanding people and harnessing their abilities is an incredibly valuable skill. Generally, people raised in India, especially those coming from joint families and brought up in an open society, find it easier to lead complex tasks and large teams effectively.”
“That’s why today, in major corporations across the globe, you’ll find Indians holding key leadership positions. And the problem-solving abilities, along with the analytical thinking of Indian professionals, are truly exceptional. I believe this capability is so strong it makes Indians globally competitive and extremely valuable on the international stage.”
Modi’s remarks highlight the emphasis on dedication and ethical conduct instilled within Indian culture, suggesting these values contribute significantly to professional success. He also points to the collaborative spirit fostered in joint families and a diverse society, arguing that these environments cultivate leadership and teamwork skills that are highly valued in the corporate world. The emphasis on analytical thinking and problem-solving further strengthens the position of Indian professionals in the global landscape.
Modi’s comments provide a cultural context for understanding the prevalence of Indian talent in leadership positions, emphasizing the role of upbringing and societal values. This perspective also underlines the importance of cultural exchange and the valuable contributions diverse backgrounds bring to global innovation. While individual success stories vary, Modi’s explanation offers a compelling narrative of how cultural background can shape professional trajectories, particularly within the dynamic world of technology.