Mumbai, September 17, 2026: Harishchandra Bharuka, former Managing Director of Kansai Nerolac Paints Limited, has launched his first book, What Leadership Leaves Behind: Lessons from the Corner Office. Drawing on four decades of leadership experience, including 36 years with Kansai Nerolac Paints, the book is now available on Amazon India in Kindle and paperback editions.
Written in the author’s own voice, the book moves beyond conventional management theories and examines the realities of leadership through experiences from his professional journey. It explores themes including integrity, accountability, resilience, decision-making, mentorship, succession planning and organisational purpose, supported by real-life episodes rather than hypothetical case studies.
Bharuka joined Kansai Nerolac Paints in 1985 and served the organisation for 36 years. Among the experiences highlighted in the book is the turnaround of the company’s Powder Coatings business, where he focused on rebuilding the confidence of the existing team and strengthening accountability rather than replacing people. He also recounts the decision to close the Pigments division, describing it as a difficult call that demanded courage and discipline.
The book also reflects on the organisation’s transition from Goodlass Nerolac Paints to Kansai Nerolac Paints and how Bharuka’s first two decades with the company helped deepen his understanding of the business before he took over as CEO. He discusses the importance of identifying industry shifts, recognising growth opportunities and embedding continuous improvement into everyday operations.
The introduction of Kaizen and the emphasis on excellence and innovation, including at the shopfloor level, also feature among the key leadership lessons presented in the book.
Speaking about the launch, Harishchandra Bharuka said, “I wanted to write the book I wished someone had handed me early in my career, honest about the setbacks, not just the outcomes. If it helps even a few leaders make difficult decisions with more clarity and integrity, it will serve its purpose.”
Ram Mehrotra, Chief Business Officer – Decorative, Kansai Nerolac Paints Limited, said, “This book is a tribute to the values of integrity, accountability and long-term thinking that have shaped Kansai Nerolac Paints over the decades. We are proud to see Mr. Bharuka’s experience and leadership documented for a wider audience of professionals across industries.”
The book also presents Bharuka’s reflections on uncertainty, setbacks and difficult decisions, offering readers a candid account of leadership beyond conventional success narratives. It is positioned as a practical resource for aspiring leaders and a perspective for experienced executives revisiting familiar organisational challenges.
What Leadership Leaves Behind: Lessons from the Corner Office is available on Amazon India in Kindle and paperback editions.
About Kansai Nerolac Paints Ltd:
Kansai Nerolac Paints, now in its 106th year, is one of India’s leading paint companies and a leader in industrial paints. The company operates eight strategically located manufacturing units across India and has a strong dealer network nationwide. Its product portfolio includes decorative paints and coatings for homes, offices, hospitals and hotels, as well as industrial coatings for a wide range of industries.
