AHMEDABAD, GUJARAT | 19th JUNE 2026 | FICCI FLO Ahmedabad Chapter organised an engaging and insightful interactive session featuring renowned motivational speaker Dr. Pawan Agrawal, International Motivational Speaker and Ph.D. on the Mumbai Dabbawalla System, who shared inspiring lessons on leadership, teamwork, customer service and operational excellence through the extraordinary journey of the Mumbai Dabbawallas.
The session witnessed the participation of FICCI FLO Ahmedabad members, entrepreneurs, business leaders and professionals from across the city. Through compelling stories, personal experiences and practical management lessons, Dr. Agrawal highlighted how the Mumbai Dabbawallas have built one of the world’s most respected and efficient delivery networks, earning global recognition for their discipline, reliability and customer-first approach.
Addressing the audience, Dr. Agrawal explained that the success of the Dabbawalla system is rooted in values rather than technology. He spoke about the importance of commitment, teamwork, trust, accountability and punctuality in achieving consistent excellence. He emphasised that every member of the organisation plays a vital role in ensuring customer satisfaction and preserving the legacy of the Mumbai Dabbawallas.
Drawing from decades of experience, Dr. Agrawal shared several heartfelt incidents from the Dabbawallas’ journey. He became visibly emotional while speaking about the deep connection they share with their customers. He said that for every Dabbawalla, the customer is nothing less than God. Their greatest reward, he explained, comes from knowing that after a long and tiring day, a person receives a home-cooked meal on time. The happiness and comfort reflected on a customer’s face when opening their lunchbox is what motivates thousands of Dabbawallas to carry out their responsibilities with unwavering dedication every single day.
During the session, Dr. Agrawal also shared that the honorarium he receives for his speaking engagements and motivational sessions is dedicated to supporting the education and welfare of underprivileged and orphaned children. He shared that the Dabbawallas do not see themselves as merely delivering lunchboxes; they see themselves as delivering care, comfort and happiness. He noted that when a tired individual opens a lunchbox prepared with love by their family, it brings a smile to their face, and that smile is the true reward for every Dabbawalla.
He also shared the philosophy that drives the organisation: “Karna Hai Toh Karna Hai” (If it has to be done, it has to be done). He explained that this mindset has helped the Dabbawallas overcome countless challenges, from heavy rains and transportation disruptions to the daily pressure of delivering thousands of lunchboxes with remarkable accuracy. According to him, success comes not from making excuses but from taking ownership and staying committed to the task at hand.
Dr. Pawan Agrawal, International Motivational Speaker and Ph.D. on the Mumbai Dabbawalla System, said: “When a woman works, an entire family progresses. The work being done by FICCI Ladies Organisation is truly commendable as it empowers women and creates a positive impact on society. Just like the Mumbai Dabbawallas, who have been serving people with dedication since 1890 and today deliver nearly 2 lakh lunchboxes every day, consistent effort and commitment can create extraordinary results.”
Usha Jaiswal, Chairperson, FICCI FLO Ahmedabad, said: “The idea behind organizing this session was to inspire the women in our group, many of whom are balancing their professional responsibilities along with their roles at home. The discipline, commitment and systematic approach followed by the Mumbai Dabbawallas is truly remarkable. We believe their journey and work ethic will motivate our members to bring the same consistency, dedication and discipline into their personal and professional lives.”
The session concluded with a standing ovation for Dr. Agrawal, whose inspiring stories, practical wisdom and heartfelt message left the audience motivated to embrace responsibility, pursue excellence and adopt the spirit of “Karna Hai Toh Karna Hai” in their personal and professional journeys.
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