In today’s fast-paced world, where professional landscapes are constantly evolving, some values remain timeless. At Jeena & Company, one thing has stayed consistent since its inception in 1900: a deep commitment to its people.
The hands-on management and positive work culture have been instrumental in shaping careers
Workplaces are more than just spaces where tasks are completed; they are communities where careers are nurtured and lifelong bonds are forged. Jeena & Company exemplifies this philosophy, as reflected in the heartfelt testimonials of its former employees. Through decades of change, the company has upheld a culture where employees feel valued, respected, and, above all, at home.
A legacy rooted in relationships
Founded by Pallonji Katgara, Jeena has been a cornerstone of the logistics industry for over 125 years. Each successive generation of leadership—from Nariman and Adi J. Katgara to Sam, Cyrus, Homi Katgara and now Ayesha and Nari Katgara—has not only expanded the company’s global footprint but also upheld its people-first ethos. Despite the industry’s rapid modernisation and the company’s technological advancements, one constant has been its unwavering focus on fostering a family-like work environment.
This legacy is not just about business milestones but also about the human connections formed along the way. Former employees speak not only of professional growth but of the sense of belonging and community that defined their time working here.
The human side of success
Vishal Sharma reflects, “What truly set Jeena apart was its unique ability to maintain a close-knit, family-oriented culture despite its ambitious growth. It wasn’t just about achieving targets; it was about building meaningful relationships.”
G.K. Shankar highlights the leadership’s investment in every employee’s journey: “Jeena’s strong work culture and passionate leadership have driven its remarkable success. The company’s reputation made every interaction seamless, and the deep employee loyalty speaks volumes about its family-like environment.”
These sentiments echo across generations. Arun K. Haldwani describes Jeena as “more than a workplace—it’s a family that instills integrity, resilience, and dedication.” Meanwhile, Balbir Mehanti, who spent 28 years with the company, fondly recalls how Jeena’s leaders knew their 1,200+ employees by name, reinforcing a culture of personal connection and care.
Empowering careers, fostering growth
Beyond the familial bonds, Jeena has been a training ground where employees are empowered to grow and innovate. Prashant Mohan credits the company with giving him the confidence to navigate global markets, while Manoj Motiwala emphasises the autonomy and entrepreneurial spirit that defined his two-decade tenure. “Jeena fostered a culture of work-life balance and respect,” he says. “The partners were humble, approachable, and committed to every employee’s growth.”
For some, the impact was even more profound. Raji Sundaresan shares how Jeena became her refuge during a personal crisis: “After my husband’s passing, their warmth made me feel at home.” Such stories underscore the company’s ability to see its employees as individuals with lives beyond their job titles.
A legacy of integrity and empowerment
Jeena has not only set industry benchmarks but also fostered an environment where fairness, respect, and commitment define its culture. “Jeena & Co. stands out for its fairness and commitment to employees, vendors, and customers alike. I hope the next generation upholds its glorious legacy and continues to set industry standards,” says Timmy Patel, who has spent over 30 years in the shipping industry.
Manoj Motiwala, reflecting on his two decades with the company, speaks of its deeply humane leadership—where the philosophy of ‘People, Service, Profit’ was more than a mantra; it was a way of life. “Jeena instilled in me the art of delegation and the company’s entrepreneurial spirit empowered me with the autonomy to execute projects. Jeena fostered a culture of work-life balance and respect, with its partners leading by example—humble, approachable, and committed to every employee’s growth,” he shares.
This sentiment resonates across generations. “Proud to be a second-generation employee of Jeena, a company that has thrived for 125 years. The hands-on management and positive work culture have been instrumental in shaping careers, including mine. I cherish my 20 years with Jeena,” says Sujit Rasam. Similarly, G.D. Walimbe, who spent nearly four decades at Jeena, never sought another opportunity—even when one came from Air France—choosing instead to remain where integrity, professional growth, and employee welfare were prioritised. “Jeena means job satisfaction, ethical conduct, excellent colleagues, fair pay, and deserved recognition. They build loyalty through career advancement, training, and a supportive environment,” he says.
Beyond business success, Jeena nurtures strong personal connections, with its leaders remaining humble, approachable, and invested in every employee’s growth.
A culture that endures
The testimonials are more than fond recollections—they are evidence of a workplace culture that prioritises people over profits. In an industry where change is constant, Jeena has demonstrated that the secret to long-term success lies in balancing innovation with enduring values.
Whether it’s the hands-on mentorship of leaders like Cyrus Katgara, the commitment to ethical practices, or the celebration of employees through annual family gatherings, the company has consistently fostered an environment where people feel seen and valued.
As the next generation of leaders, Ayesha and Nari Katgara, take the helm, the spirit of Jeena remains unchanged. The chorus of voices—from those who spent decades with the company to those who would gladly return for a “second inning”—speaks volumes. Jeena & Company is not just a place to work; it is a place to belong.
Putting people first
The world of business is often measured in numbers, but at Jeena, the true measure of success lies in the lives it has touched. As the company celebrates its 125th anniversary, it offers a powerful reminder: when you invest in people, you create a legacy that is endured for generations.
