‘There were days without money, but not without hope’: IIM Bangalore alumnus’ story on becoming successful is a powerful reminder of a mother’s sacrifice, support and courage
ET Online May 13, 2026 09:57 PM
Synopsis

Swaminathan Kalyanasundara, who is an IIM alumnus, has shared a touching tribute to his mother on her 77th birthday. He recounted how his mother's unwavering belief and sacrifices helped their family overcome extreme financial hardship after his father's passing. Her strength and optimism were the foundation for his eventual success.

The story of the IIM Bangalore alumnus resonated widely online. (Representative image: iStock)
A mother’s sacrifice often goes unnoticed, masked behind daily struggles, silent resilience, and unwavering emotional support. Mothers play a powerful role in shaping their children’s success, growth, and future, becoming the foundation that helps individuals overcome adversity and achieve greatness. So not only on Mother’s Day, but their strength, courage, and unconditional love deserve recognition every day. Highlighting this emotional reality, IIM alumnus and startup specialist Swaminathan Kalyanasundara recently shared a similar heartfelt story on his X handle, honoring his mother on the occasion of her 77th birthday.

In his emotional write-up, Swaminathan Kalyanasundara recalled the death of his father in 1996, a moment that left the family with very little in material terms. As he poignantly expressed, his father left behind just two assets: an LPG connection and his mother.

IIM Bangalore alumnus on his mother


From living in a small car shed to eventually building a successful life, Swaminathan Kalyanasundara credited his mother’s daunting belief, countless sacrifices, immense courage, and relentless optimism as the true pillars behind his journey. Despite enduring severe financial struggles, he emphasized that his mother never allowed hopelessness to enter their lives

Even during the most uncertain and painful phases, Swaminathan Kalyanasundara’s mother remained a silent yet powerful source of strength, standing as firm as a rock behind every setback, failure, and step forward. Swaminathan acknowledged that his accomplishments and identity today are deeply rooted in his mother’s prayers, sacrifices, and constant faith in his potential.

Internet reacts to mother’s love


Calling her his greatest source of wealth, Swaminathan Kalyanasundara expressed profound gratitude to the woman who taught him that true richness is not measured by possessions, but by the courage with which one faces life. Since the post, his note has received several moving reactions from social media users.

‘Mother is the visible Goddess on Mother Earth and mother is the cradle of all civilisations and there is no substitute for a mother,’ wrote a user. Echoing a similar sentiment, another pointed out that a parent’s love is purest. Meanwhile, an individual aptly called Swaminathan Kalyanasundara’s mother the backbone of his family. Others simply wished her a happy birthday.
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