Major Mohammad Ali Shah Delivers Power-Packed Leadership Talk at TMU

Teerthanker Mahaveer University (TMU), renowned for its commitment to holistic education and leadership development, hosted the 13th session of its flagship Leadership Talk Series on April 15, 2025. The session featured the eminent Major Mohammad Ali Shah, an internationally acclaimed TEDx speaker, decorated Army veteran, actor, defence analyst, and transformational leadership coach. His compelling address revolved around the theme “Transforming Challenges into Triumphs: Leadership Lessons from the Battlefield and Beyond.”

The event was graced by Shri Akshat Jain, Executive Director of TMU, as the Chief Guest, whose esteemed presence reaffirmed the university’s dedication to nurturing visionary leaders. Mrs. Janhvi Jain, a respected member of the University’s Governing Body, also attended, adding further prestige and warmth to the occasion.

An Unforgettable Session by a Multifaceted Leader

From the moment he took the stage, Major Mohammad Ali Shah captivated the audience with his commanding presence and authentic storytelling. Drawing from a career that spans battlefields, boardrooms, film sets, and news studios, Major Shah brought a unique perspective on leadership, resilience, and personal reinvention.

A former Indian Army officer, Major Shah served in high-conflict zones such as the Indo-Pak border and North East India, earning a commendation card for meritorious service. Following his distinguished military tenure, he transitioned into a successful acting career with roles in National Award-winning films like Haider and Bajrangi Bhaijaan, as well as the acclaimed web series Avrodh.

With over 20 international TEDx Talks to his name and regular appearances on platforms like Aaj Tak, Times Now, CNN-News18, and Zee News as a defence analyst, Major Shah has emerged as a global thought leader in the realms of leadership and motivation.

Key Takeaways from the Leadership Talk

During his enthralling address, Major Shah wove together battlefield anecdotes, leadership insights, and personal reflections to deliver a masterclass in resilience, adaptability, and moral courage. Key themes of the session included:

• Leadership Under Fire: Drawing from life-or-death situations in the military, he emphasised the importance of composure, decisiveness, and clarity of thought in times of crisis.
• Empathy and Authenticity: He underscored that true leadership is about service and sacrifice, not rank or title.
• Courage in Adversity: Sharing stories of fellow soldiers, he illustrated how the greatest acts of leadership often arise from the most challenging circumstances.
• Embracing Vulnerability: He addressed the emotional toll of command and encouraged acknowledging and growing through personal vulnerabilities.
• Adaptability and Reinvention: His personal journey stands as proof that setbacks can be transformed into stepping stones for greater success.
• Strategic Thinking for Civilian Life: He drew parallels between military operations and corporate or academic decision-making, offering insights into crisis management and team leadership.

In one particularly moving anecdote, he shared the story of a soldier risking his life to save a child in a war zone—an act that encapsulated the selfless essence of true leadership. "Leadership," Major Shah said, "is not about self-preservation—it’s about service, sacrifice, and doing the right thing, even when it’s the hardest choice."

TMU’s Ongoing Commitment to Leadership and Growth

The session served not only as a learning opportunity but as a source of deep inspiration for the university community. It highlighted TMU’s vision of shaping future-ready leaders equipped with integrity, courage, and a transformative mindset.

The success of the event was made possible through the dedicated coordination of Dr. Neha Anand, Assistant Director–Academics, and Dr. Varun K. Singh, Deputy Registrar. Their meticulous planning under the aegis of the Leadership Talk Series Committee ensured a seamless and impactful experience.

Conclusion: A Transformational Experience

The 13th session of the Leadership Talk Series at Teerthanker Mahaveer University was more than a lecture—it was a transformational experience. Major Mohammad Ali Shah's extraordinary journey from the frontlines of national defence to the forefront of motivational speaking stands as a beacon of possibility for all.

In his closing message, Major Shah reminded the audience that leadership is not confined to the battlefield or boardroom. “Each of us is a leader in our homes, our careers, and our communities. What defines us is how we rise to our challenges, stay true to our values, and commit to a cause greater than ourselves.”

With this powerful message, TMU once again reaffirmed its role as a catalyst for shaping resilient, compassionate, and visionary leaders of tomorrow.