At ASM StratConsult LLP, we were truly honoured to host CA Sanjivv Shiv Kapoor, acclaimed author of “Aap toh CA hain,” for an engaging conversation led by our CEO, Mr. Sandip Mukherjee. In this exclusive interaction, Mr. Kapoor shared the many layers of his journey—blending professional milestones with the deeper emotional architecture that defines success beyond mere achievement.
His reflections revealed how the book is not only about Chartered Accountants but also a window into the perceptions, expectations, and experiences that society associates with them. The dialogue delved into profound questions: What does it take to truly become a CA? When does a professional title stop defining us? And how does purpose begin to guide one’s identity and path forward?
His book, “Aap toh CA hain,” is currently available on Flipkart , Amazon and Google Play Books.
Below are excerpts from the interview, capturing Mr. Kapoor’s insights in his own words.
# If you could rewrite your professional origin story, what would you keep—and what would you challenge?
I would like to keep my integrity, patience and professional ethics. These form the core of our profession and would always retain them. though times change, however these values shall always remail static.
I would like to challenge the notion that CAs are meant only audit and taxation. With a CA comes a whole lot of other expertise which should be made known to the people. Further I would like to challenge the comparison of CA with other professionals like MBA, ICMA, CS etc. With CA it all comes rolled into one, though all other professions have their unique place.
# What does “Aap toh CA hain” teach us about the emotional architecture behind professional success?
The book describes that what face comes out in public is dependent on all kinds of relations you share with your – family, friends, clients, students, employees etc.
A CA has to give equal importance to all of them so that he comes out as a stable and balanced person capable of handling the tough requirements and challenges of the profession.
A truly balanced and stable person only can be a good advisor to all.
# What does the book reveal about the societal perception of Chartered Accountants in India?
The social perception about CA’s is that he is a “know all” person. He is expected to know about all areas of finance, law, banking, industry, all regulation etc etc
At times clients also ask about which computer to buy, which air conditioner etc. to buy.
I would call CA’s as a personal advisory agent who is expected to have knowledge about everything- that’s why people say “Aap toh CA hain”
# What’s the funniest moment in your professional journey that taught you the most?
Though there have been may instances, however the latest one goes like this
Recently I got a call from someone seeking resolution to a dispute. I agreed to help him and asked him to give me the full details about the dispute.
He replied – “Sir, we have a dispute with our neighbor about parking of our vehicle”.
I told him that we do not resolve these kinds of disputes. He replied – but “Aap to CA hain”.
We all laughed our hearts out, however it also dawned upon us the kind of trust and expectation people have from us.
# What does it truly mean to be a CA today—beyond the designation and into the realm of identity, purpose, and perception?
So, I quote from my book –
When you earn the title of CA, your intellectual capability and work ethics are taken for granted. But as years pass your decisions impact lives of business and families, something shifts. You are no longer just a professional, you become a symbol of trust, stability and wisdom.
Being a CA isn’t just a professional label. It’s a lifelong responsibility. it means being a mentor, a guide and sometimes simply a steady hand in someone’s moment of uncertainty.
# When did your professional title stop defining you—and your purpose start guiding you?
Passing the CA exams and joining profession, the purpose is defined from day one. You are a miniscule portion of the financial backbone of the country. Though in itself it may be a miniscule effort, however when aggregated these efforts are of immense value to the nation.
As you evolve and mature the vision starts changing from micro to macro. I will quote from my book –
Today I stand in the 36th year of the incredible voyage it feels like the legendry passage through the 35 chambers of the Shaolin temple, each more demanding then the last and each carving a deeper layer of skill, endurance and insight. Then comes the 36th Chamber, the one where you emerge not just as a student but as a teacher.
It is here you open up to the world, not to display what you have earned, but to share what you have learned for the greater good of those who are still walking their own paths.
Closing Note –
Our conversation with CA Sanjivv Shiv Kapoor around his book “Aap Toh CA Hain” was a powerful reminder that behind every professional title lies a deeper search for meaning, fulfilment, and identity. His candid reflections on the evolving role of Chartered Accountants and the shift from being defined by designation to being guided by purpose left us truly inspired. We at ASM StratConsult LLP feel privileged to have hosted him and grateful for the wisdom he shared—a beacon for professionals at every stage.