Leaders & Leadership

Well honestly could not think of a more apt topic to start with. I have always admired leaders who were ready to be different. People who actually had flaws that were evident, but were able to leave behind great legacies from their hard work. Therefore the leaders I admire are the ones who have been in controversies rather than those who adorn the haloed walls of the Chapel.
The Political leader I admire most is the reason this post becomes relevant. Indira Gandhi was a leader who was not only a visionary but also a woman of steel. Indian politics had been the ball game of male stalwarts when she became the prime minister of India though you may argue that it was her surname that got her the post but then even Asoka ascended his father's throne. All of us need opportunities in life to excel and when the time comes to do so then you can separate the men from the boys. Men leave behind their mark while the boys go back and wait for the next turn.
I have utmost regard for the grace and grit Indira Gandhi had. A nation plagued by problems needed someone like her. Even though she had her forgettable moments but you cant let those tarnish what she had done in 21yrs for the public.
The second leader I want to mention is Sourav Ganguly. Imagine leading India in cricket , now imagine leading Indian cricket after dark days of match fixing and you would appreciate Sourav as a leader rather just a cricketer.
Coming from Kolkata you may say I am biased but then surely I cant imagine you disagreeing with me when you read the stats as he still remains India's most successful captain. Moreover if you see the kind of side he lead then you would begin to appreciate his contribution. Imagine Kapil Dev lifting the Prudential cup in the famous balcony at Lord's and then imagine Dada's dance of fury when we won the Natwest trophy need I show you more evidence of changing face of Indian cricket.
Again Sourav had his share of Grey areas but the way he encouraged and persisted with young players is remarkable. Today your current stars of cricket Yuvi, Bhajji and even Dhoni owe their journey to him. For me he changed the way i celebrated victory it was the clenched fist and the unbounded expression of joy.
So I believe the people I will admire are the ones who take decisions which are path breaking, sometimes doing things which they shouldn't have. But then they would rise from their ashes to stand tall.
My first escapade with leadership came when I was in my graduation. Being a leader is tough but you know for me it was tougher to pass the baton on. I still remember when I had relinquish control over the things that I had nurtured for the last couple of years it wasn't easy. I believe I didn't do well but yes as I look back I know now what I could have done more importantly what I would do when time comes.