Hum Tum: Bonding over work
Their first breakthrough came in 2006 when N.V.S. Reddy was appointed the MD of the HMR project.
Most lifelong friendships we know date back to childhood but for Hyderabad Metro Rail MD N.V.S. Reddy and former CREDAI national president and CMD of CSR Estates C. Shekar Reddy, their 15-year-old camaraderie began at the workplace.
It was in 2001 N.V.S. Reddy met Shekar Reddy at the Hyderabad Municipal Corporation.
“When I joined the Corporation as an Additional Commissioner, Shekar was closely following the policy for a better Hyderabad. That’s how we bonded,” remembers N.V.S Reddy, who has held several senior government positions.
What started off as a common interest to develop Brand Hyderabad slowly became a passion.
Their first breakthrough came in 2006 when N.V.S. Reddy was appointed the MD of the HMR project. The duo then decided to look at the best practical technology for the city. N.V.S. Reddy built four important flyover. “After this project, our bond grew stronger,” says Shekar. And N.V.S. adds, “We wanted public-private partnership to work hand in hand for the development of the State.”
Common goals made them thick friends, who maintain a healthy communication by calling or meeting once in a week.
“Over the past 15 years, N.V.S. and I have had a ‘standing’ phone call once a week. This has provided us with consistent communication,” says Shekar. N.V.S. adds, “He is my 3 am friend and I can always depend on him. Shekar has given me excellent guidance throughout my professional life; he is that moral mentor.”
They also share ideas and brainstormed on developing Hyderabad.
“You can’t share these things with your family. So you need someone to share your ideas with. Shekhar is my moral anchor. We really began to enjoy our conversations, which turned philosophical at times,” says N.V.S, who is known for his financial acumen and engineering innovation.
Shekar adds, “Ever since this Metro work started, there has been a lot of criticisms and agitations. We developers have travelled across the globe and we know the importance of Metro Rail,” says N.V.S, adding, “I needed support and wanted to depend on someone whom I can trust — with whom I could express my anguish and discuss how to take it forward. This kind of friendship is definitely different.”
Besides sharing common ideas, the duo shares a common interest in cycling. “We participate in the cycling events in the city. We are also a part of the Hyderabad Cycling Club,” adds Shekar.