Anjali Mam, better known as The Iron Lady has this family of Anjali Jain and Associates back in 1985 when she became the first lady Chartered Accountant in Bihar (undivided). The tag of Iron Lady was first given when she stepped in as a Practicing Chartered Accountant which was then, a male dominated profession.
Since then she has dominated the profession like anything and on her every step, more iron was added to her tag of “The Iron Lady”. But it was us, the kids of the family who knew that the tag is only the outer part of the coconut. Inside, The Iron Lady has a supporting heart, enthusiastic soul and very jovial person.
I joined the family in 2011 after completing my Masters as raw finance professional with theoretical knowledge only. My cousin who was an article under Anjali Mam referred me to her. My journey in the family under Anjali mam started on the 28th Day of March 2011.
I have recorded many memories in the past ten years of my journey with Anjali Mam. I used to have a new learning, whenever she used to hand over a new task to me. She was a huge resource of knowledge and experience and we are blessed enough to have a mentor like her. We have celebrated all the festivals together in the office. Be it Holi, Diwali, Eid, Chritsmas or New Year. She always used to say that God is one but we divide him according to our religion. So celebrate all festivals and enjoy being an Indian.
One more thing which she was very specific about is “Mother”. Let me share an incident with you all, once an article (a girl) came in for interview and was sitting in front of Anjali Mam. She handed over the resume to her and initially Mam discussed about her education, schooling, residence and other things. Then she started reading her resume. Suddenly, Mam asked the girl “isn’t your mother alive?” The girl got confused and replied – “No Mam, she is alive and healthy.” Mam replied – “Wow, that’s great, then tell me why have you not mentioned her name in your resume? Did you father single handedly raised you or you are ashamed of your mother that you don’t mention her name in the resume?” The girl was in tears but said, “this is my first lesson of article ship.”
Mam was very much specific about the honor of the females. She has always taught us to respect every women and that is something I can never forget in my life. Anjali Mam, you will always be there with us as blessing of our life and I would end up saying that – Mam, wherever you are, I know you must be enjoying and dominating the men there.
Loads of Love
Shobhan
