Rooted in Family, Soaring in Service: The Mahaveer Bothra Story
Catching up with District Governor Mahaveer Bothra is no easy feat—especially when he’s splitting his time between breakfast meetings, weddings, cracking jokes, and charming a crowd. Amid the chaos, Voice of RID 3233 editor Rtn. Sashi managed to steal a lively chat, uncovering gems of wisdom sprinkled with Bothra Ji’s trademark wit.
Q1: Bothra Ji, you’ve achieved incredible milestones as Governor in a short span of six months. What’s the secret behind your ever-smiling demeanour and leadership success?
Bothra Ji: (Laughs) My smile is my weapon and my shield! I believe life is too short to frown. Growing up in a joint family taught me to handle challenges with a grin. Whether it was sharing food, space, or dreams with my siblings, I learned that a smile can dissolve tension and create magic. Leadership is no different—smile, inspire, and let your actions do the talking.
Q2: You’re known for your “think big, do big” approach. Where does this philosophy come from?
Bothra Ji: Ah, that’s a Bothra trademark! Normal is boring, my friend. Whether it’s organizing a Green Rotarians conclave with 700+ new members or planning a family wedding with 4,000 guests, I believe in dreaming big. My elder brother and I started small in the diamond business, but we always aimed for the stars. Rotary has the same potential—why settle for small when you can impact lives on a grand scale?
Q3: Your passion for joint family values is evident. What makes joint families so special?
Bothra Ji: Joint families are like Rotary clubs—diverse people working together for a common goal. They’re a total love package. You get grandparents showering affection, siblings sharing responsibilities, and a safety net when life throws challenges. Imagine every meal being a mini boardroom meeting where ideas are exchanged, laughter is shared, and unity is strengthened.
Q4: How do joint family values align with Rotary’s principles of service?
Bothra Ji: Joint families embody Service Above Self. You don’t think about “me,” but “we.” Whether it’s ensuring everyone has food on their plate or celebrating someone else’s success, it’s all about the collective good. Rotary extends this principle to the world—helping communities thrive as one big family.
Q5: You’ve grown up with siblings. Any hilarious or heartwarming stories you’d like to share?
Bothra Ji: Oh, so many! We were six siblings, and our house was a mix of chaos and love. I’ve worn my elder brother’s clothes more times than I can count—new clothes were only for weddings! Once, I borrowed his blazer for a business meeting. Not only did I close the deal, but the client also complimented “my” style. My brother and I still laugh about that!
Q6: In today’s fast-paced world, joint families are becoming rare. What’s your advice to people considering them outdated?
Bothra Ji: Outdated? No way! A joint family is like a timeless app—always updating itself to stay relevant. It teaches tolerance, teamwork, and how to respect different perspectives. A nuclear family might give you freedom, but a joint family gives you clarity and strength. Trust me, it’s the ultimate happiness hack.
Q7: What role do elders play in a joint family, and how has that influenced you?
Bothra Ji: Elders are the GPS of a joint family. My mother and elder brother Gautham have been my guiding lights. Even today, before making big decisions, I seek their blessings and wisdom. Touching their feet is not just a ritual; it’s a way of grounding myself and drawing positive energy. Their wisdom is like a safety net—it doesn’t let you fall far.
Q8: You often mention division of labour in joint families. How does that reduce stress?
Bothra Ji: Division of labour is the superpower of joint families! Imagine having a system where everyone takes care of something—someone looks after the business, someone handles home duties, and someone attends family weddings. Just last week, we had four weddings to attend. I covered two, my brother handled the other two, and life went on smoothly. Stress? What’s that?
Q9: Can you share a life lesson you learned from your joint family that applies to Rotary?
Bothra Ji: One big lesson is tolerance. Siblings fight, yell, and then share dessert the next moment. This teaches you to let go of grudges quickly. In Rotary, when you work with diverse people, tolerance becomes your greatest strength. Focus on the big picture, and the small issues will sort themselves out.
Q10: How do joint families nurture compassion and generosity?
Bothra Ji: Compassion is second nature in a joint family. If one person falls sick, ten others step in to help. Generosity flows naturally—you think of others before yourself. In my family, when I travel, my first thought is what to bring back for my mother and siblings. This habit of giving extends seamlessly to Rotary, where the joy lies in uplifting others.
Q11: You’ve travelled extensively. How does your joint family inspire your global outlook?
Bothra Ji: Wherever I go, I carry my family values. Joint families teach you to appreciate diversity and adapt quickly. I’ve attended events in different countries, but the thought is always, “What can I bring back to make my family happy?” This mindset translates to Rotary—seeing the world as one big family.
Q12: What’s your take on freedom versus support in a joint family?
Bothra Ji: Freedom without support is like a kite without a string. Joint families give you the string—a strong foundation to soar high. Yes, there are checks and balances, but they’re there to guide you, not restrict you. It’s the kind of freedom that doesn’t make you fall.
Q13: Rotary promotes teamwork and diversity. How does a joint family prepare you for these values?
Bothra Ji: A joint family is the best training ground for teamwork. Each member has strengths, and together, you achieve the impossible. It’s like a Rotary club where directors of different avenues work towards a shared goal. The beauty lies in celebrating each member’s contribution.
Q14: You’re known for your wit and humour. How do they help in leadership?
Bothra Ji: Laughter is the shortest distance between two people. Whether it’s resolving conflicts at home or motivating Rotarians, humour lightens the mood and builds connections. A leader without a sense of humour is like a chef without salt.
Q15: Finally, what’s your message to Rotarians about embracing joint family values?
Bothra Ji: Think beyond yourself. Embrace the “we” over “me.” Whether in Rotary or family, focus on collective well-being. Respect diversity, value experience, and never underestimate the power of unity. Life is a celebration when lived together—so let’s make Rotary and the world our extended family.
Governor Mahaveer Bothra Ji’s journey is a testament to the power of unity, humour, and compassion. His leadership, rooted in joint family values, reminds us that life’s greatest joys lie in service, togetherness, and a big-hearted approach to everything we do.
