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Utsava is an entrepreneur primarily involved in chemicals trading for manufacturing soaps and detergents. His family company has now expanded internationally and is working in close cooperation with renowned companies like DuPont, Clariant and Vedanta.

How does it feel to be selected for the Alumni 100 list?

"It is a huge honour to be part of the Alumni 100 list among the distinguished alumni who have excelled in different walks of life. I feel humbled and thrilled to be featured among some of the very best from the University. I thank the University, my parents, and all my teachers for preparing me to be capable of getting this award."

What made you choose to study at the University of Edinburgh Business School?

"I chose the University of Edinburgh Business School after thorough research as it stands among the very best in terms of education and all-round development. Moreover, living in a beautiful city like Edinburgh which offers a high-quality life is icing on the cake. It was perhaps one of the best decisions of my life in terms of the enriching experiences which were life-changing. I learnt a lot from my professors and my fellow classmates who gave me an international perspective, as we were representing more than 20 nationalities."

What are your memories of studying at the Business School?

"I have a lot of good memories of studying at the Business School. One that stands out is working on group projects with my classmates. It was both challenging and enlightening to be working together with different nationalities and cultures and trying to come up with solutions with different perspectives. I believe I not only got a degree but a lifelong learning experience from the Business School."

What's the one thing you think current students need to develop or learn before entering the modern workplace?

"Get out of your comfort zone. I think it is a very important skill that everyone can and should develop. If we learn to be comfortable about being uncomfortable, we will be able to tide over difficult times in work life with a lot more success."

What key thing that you learnt at the Business School do you still rely on today?

"I think the most important lesson I got at the university was that learning occurs both inside and outside the classroom. The academics are one important part which should be complimented by learning from classmates as well as everyday situations."

Proudest work-related achievement to date?

"I played a key role in the introduction of environmentally friendly biochemicals at the second-largest detergent manufacturer in India. This led to less use of other chemicals and helped save water for washing clothes. It was a significant step in changing the practice of the detergent industry in India to look for environmentally friendly solutions. The whole success story was featured on a prominent television news channel, 'Times Now' in India."