After I finished school, I went to JJ College of Architecture and then to Harvard. I did my B.A. with a major in filmmaking.

The quote by Anand Mahindra — "After I finished school, I went to JJ College of Architecture and then to Harvard. I did my B.A. with a major in filmmaking." — reflects the formative stages of Mahindra’s academic and creative journey. Though widely recognized as a leading Indian industrialist and the Chairman of the Mahindra Group, this quote reveals his early exposure to and interest in the creative arts, particularly architecture and filmmaking. It highlights an unconventional path for a future business leader, suggesting that his foundation was rooted in aesthetic sensibility and storytelling before entering the corporate world.

Attending JJ College of Architecture, one of India’s premier architecture schools, Mahindra would have gained an appreciation for design thinking, structural logic, and visual creativity. His subsequent transition to Harvard University, where he majored in filmmaking during his undergraduate studies, indicates a continued pursuit of narrative craft and visual communication. This background likely contributed to his nuanced understanding of branding, messaging, and consumer engagement, all critical elements in leading a global conglomerate.

The origin of this quote is found in interviews and public profiles where Mahindra has shared insights into his educational experiences. These stories often aim to inspire younger audiences by demonstrating that a career in business or leadership doesn't have to begin with finance or management — it can emerge from a background in the arts and humanities. Mahindra’s path exemplifies how diverse academic disciplines can converge in a successful and visionary career.

Ultimately, this quote reveals that multidisciplinary education can be a powerful asset. Mahindra’s grounding in architecture and filmmaking may seem distant from boardroom strategy, but these disciplines foster creativity, empathy, and innovation — qualities essential for modern leadership. His journey encourages aspiring professionals to embrace varied interests and to view artistic exploration as a legitimate and valuable part of their development.