Just like the mathematician, the Indian too is a constant presence in Jain. He appears to be in love with the US, the opportunities it offers to everyone, and its work culture, but does not hide his Indianness, and wears his arranged marriage on his sleeve.
Most of those who know him, and several seminar audiences, would know that Jain did not see his wife before he agreed to marry her. One fine day in 1989, when Jain's family thought he was getting on in years, he received a letter from his father talking about this girl he wanted Jain to consider for marriage. "I have visited her place and met her," read the last line of the letter. "I really like her."
Jain's reply was immediate and positive. "If you like her, she must be really special. I will marry her."
By that time, Jain's father had become completely blind. That's acceptance.
Image: Dipak C Jain, Dean, Kellogg School of Management Northwestern University, USA (R) receiving a Memento from the Dean, Foreign Service Institute on October 19, 2007 | Photograph: Courtesy, Ministry of External Affairs
Also view: 9 great management lessons from Dhirubhai Ambani
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