Former police officer urges students to seek inspiration beyond politicians, film stars - The HinduPublished - September 25, 2026 08:41 pm IST - TIRUPATIPolice officer-turned-motivational speaker V.V. Lakshminarayana addressing students at a programme organised by Junior Chamber International (JCI) in Tirupati on Friday. | Photo Credit: K.V. POORNACHANDRA KUMARPolice officer-turned-motivational speaker V. V. Lakshminarayana advised students to look beyond politicians and film stars for inspiration on leadership.Addressing students at a programme organised by Junior Chamber International (JCI) in Tirupati on Friday (September 25, 2026), he termed leadership as a responsibility, not a crown worn at convenience. “A leader should look beyond merely giving orders to inspire fellow individuals by setting a goal and leading them towards success,” he said.“Leadership is not limited to politics. There are leaders among scientists, doctors, farmers, economists, astronomers, and administrators too, who are worthy of emulation,” he stated.Calling failure a “temporary obstacle,” he said it is not the end of life, but an opportunity to understand where one had gone wrong and learn from the experience. “Low marks should not disappoint you, but should become a valuable lesson. FAIL is nothing but ‘First Attempt In Learning’ for us”, he said.Expressing concern about youths idling their time with social media posts, reels, and video games, the former Joint Director of the CBI advised students to use their time productively for education, skill development, and the nurturing of their personalities.MLC Dr. Cipai Subramaniyam, a urologist by profession, and TTD Trust Board member G. Bhanuprakash Reddy inaugurated the programme. JCI India International Director N.B. Harshavardhan Reddy spoke about the need for students to develop leadership skills alongside their academic curriculum.Social entrepreneur K. Pavan stressed the importance of determination and consistent efforts to achieve one’s goals.JCI Tirupati Power president P. Gautham Kumar, Zone 26 president K. Pramodh Kumar, JAC Zone 26 chairman G. Sankaraiah, Balaji Railway Division Sadhana Samithi convener Kuppala Giridhar, Tirupati Film Society chairman M. Venugopal Reddy were also present.Published - September 25, 2026 08:41 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }