New Delhi, April 13 -- Some of the earliest lessons for Joy Alukkas were picked up at the family dinner table. The conversations revolved around responsibility, ethics and respect for others. It's where he first realised the importance of being a good listener.

"Business was discussed as relationships built on trust, rather than numbers. My father taught me that success without integrity had no meaning and that true leadership began with humility. Those conversations became my compass," says Thrissur-based Alukkas, 69, Chairman & Managing Director of the Joyalukkas Group.

The initial days on the shop floor were about being a keen observer. A lot of his time was spent interacting with customers and craftsmen, which gave him a good unders...