Why the Heck Not?: Blueprints for Success from the Man Who Built DLF

by K P Singh, Aparna Jain

Every professional and budding entrepreneur should ideally have three types of mentors. One who has been incredibly successful, one who is genuinely respected and well liked and one who has incredible courage. To me, the almost ninety-five-year-old Kushal Pal Singh (K.P. Singh), chairman emeritus of DLF, is the perfect embodiment of all three.
From the Foreword by Aparna Jain
The riveting saga of DLF is inextricably linked to the entrepreneurial genius of K.P. Singh, a man whose name has become synonymous with housing and urban real estate infrastructure in India.

Known affectionately as KP, Singh was born in the small town of Bulandshahr. He began his career as an officer in the Indian Army before circumstances nudged him into the family business. Starting off at the Qutab Stud Farm and American Universal Electric (India), KP's greatest challenge emerged when his wife, Indira, and sister-in-law, Prem, persuaded him to helm DLF, a real estate company founded by his father-in-law, Chaudhary Raghvendra Singh. In a sector marred by nefarious repute, KP remained head and shoulders above other players, and strictly adhered to the prevailing laws and regulations. Within a few decades, KP had transformed DLF and set new standards for urban development in India.

KP’s pivotal role though was in catalysing the transformation of a barren Gurgaon into a knowledge city that reshaped the nation’s future. He persuaded Jack Welch of General Electric to explore and invest in India across multiple sectors—locomotives, power, aviation, medical systems, and eventually BPOs. This attracted significant investment and positioned Gurgaon as a hub of innovation and growth for a number of Fortune 500 companies.

Through captivating anecdotes and insights, Why The Heck Not delves into Padma Bhushan awardee KP’s interactions with industry leaders, policymakers, farmers and communities. Learn how he navigated challenges, fostered collaborations, and revolutionised the Indian real estate landscape. A must-read for entrepreneurs, business enthusiasts, and anyone seeking inspiration, this book offers valuable lessons on all aspects of leadership, innovation, and the power of perseverance and collaboration.


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397 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 16, 2024

Reviews

[Naveen Prasad · Rating 5 out of 5]

One key takeaway from this book is the significance of ethical practices and a long-term vision in driving business success. Throughout the book, K.P. Singh emphasizes the importance of resisting the allure of short-term gains in favor of sustainable growth.

I highly recommend this book to aspiring entrepreneurs seeking guidance on building a successful business.

[Manish Goel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always thought KP singh was born with silver spoon. And in real-estate his rise was owing to his skill in building relationship(+ extra legal aid).
But I think, it was entitlement on my part to assume that root of success is in past(i.e. inheritance).

It is not that, KP didn't get help from past (hit FIL). But it alone was not sufficient to make him rich as he is. This book showed lot of hardwork, planning, perseverance it took.

I am most impressed with highly disciplined life & hands-on approach of KP Singh. And this is reflected and confirmed by his current state of health and active-lifestyle in old-age.

I founbd this this book inspiring and would recommend it.

[Poonam Dangi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A book I shall be recommending to many a people and try to incorporate in my life as well.