From Mumbai by to My Second ‘Holm’: A Decade of Memories, Growth, and Gratitude with Stockholm

Introduction:

It was 2003—the IT industry was riding a wave of global expansion. I had just joined IBM, and within 30 days, I was selected for an onsite assignment in Stockholm, Sweden. It wasn’t just a career milestone—it was the start of a journey that would define my professional path, shape my leadership style, and give me a second home in every sense of the word.

Recognizing Talent Early:

IBM’s trust in its people has always been exceptional. The decision to send me onsite so quickly reflected the company’s belief in nurturing talent and offering real-world opportunities. I will always salute IBM for giving so much to its employees—those were truly the golden years of IT.

First Steps: Ericsson, Telefonplan & a Walk to Remember

My first assignment took me to Telefonplan, then Ericsson’s key hub. I still remember the quiet walk from the metro station to the office, absorbing Stockholm’s calm and discipline. I was part of a team supporting Ericsson through a critical IT transformation—an intense and invaluable learning experience.

From the Sheraton Kitchen to Performance Talks in Kista

Lodging at the Sheraton Hotel was comfortable, but I missed Indian food so much that I ended up teaching the hotel’s French chef how to make vegetable fried rice—a fun and unexpected moment of cultural exchange.

Meanwhile, our multi-vendor meetings at Kista were where the real collaboration happened. Experts from SAP, IBM, HP, and Ericsson would come together to resolve performance issues in the SAP ecosystem. It was the essence of partnership across companies—solution-focused and customer-driven.

One Conflict, One Resolution, and a New Confidence

During this time, I was also tasked with resolving a growing conflict between the SAP HR functional and technical teams. What started as a tense impasse became a breakthrough moment. With calm communication, active listening, and facilitation, I helped both sides align. That success gave me the first real confidence in my people management skills and made me believe in the power of communication as a leadership tool.

A Lost Bag, Found Faith

Before I even boarded my first flight, I had a moment of panic at Mumbai airport—I lost my laptop bag. To my great relief, the airport security staff responded with such promptness and professionalism, locating and returning the bag with respect. That gesture has stayed with me as a moment of deep gratitude.

Tunnelbana Tales and Dinners at Lilla Karachi

Outside of work, I embraced the Swedish lifestyle. The Tunnelbana (metro) became a symbol of my new routine, and I still hold fond memories of stops like Liljeholmen, Zinkensdamm, Midsommarkransen, Alvik, and Hammarbyhöjden—each with its own charm and moments.

Evenings were often spent at Lilla Karachi, a little restaurant in Gamla Stan. It was run by a Pakistani owner, with an Indian chef and a Bangladeshi manager—a true reflection of South Asian unity. It wasn’t just a restaurant; it was where friendships were formed, laughter echoed, and our team unwound after long workdays.

June 21 at Skansen: The Longest Day, the Deepest Bond

Of all the cultural experiences, celebrating June 21st at Skansen, Sweden’s Midsummer Festival, remains the most magical. Surrounded by music, flowers, and laughter under the midnight sun, I felt a profound connection to Swedish life. That day also gifted me some incredible friendships—George, Essais, and Elsa—who welcomed me with open arms and have since become lifelong friends.

Six More Journeys to My Second ‘Holm’

That first trip was just the beginning. Over my ten-year career at IBM, I had the privilege of traveling to Stockholm six more times. Each visit brought new challenges, memories, and deeper bonds. The city stopped feeling foreign. It became my second home—my second ‘holm’ after Mumbai.

Looking Back, Moving Forward

Today, as I reflect on those years, I don’t just remember client meetings and code fixes. I remember cultural exchanges, friendships across borders, quiet walks in the snow, and the pride of representing my company globally.

Some cities leave a mark. Stockholm left a part of itself in me.

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