Finance, Films, and Favorites: A Candid Conversation with Dr Avnish Vijay

When you meet Dr Avnish Vijay, Associate Professor and Program Coordinator (MBA), you quickly realize that he’s not your regular professor, but so much more. Yes, he knows a lot about finance and strategic management, but outside of classes, he believes in living by his principles, keeping curious, and sometimes stealing the show with his singing and anchoring talents.  

Curious to know the inspiration behind his mastery, advice he swears by, and his interests? Let’s find out! 

Who are you most inspired by and why? 

My greatest inspiration, without a doubt, is my father. He was a schoolteacher, and for me, the original super-hero. He had an interesting philosophy: “Live by your principles; stand tall with dignity.” What stuck with me most was his belief in standing firm when you’re right but also admitting when you’ve made a mistake. 

He treated every student equally. Whether they had access to resources or not, that kind of honesty and dedication shaped how I approach my own students even today. 

What is the best thing about being a teacher?  

For me, teaching finance and strategy is not just about numbers or models but about watching students grow in confidence. The best moments are when a student who was shy in the beginning, suddenly starts presenting ideas boldly, or when they connect a classroom concept to something real in their lives. Those transformations make all the long hours worth it. 

Are there any resources at MUJ that you would recommend which would help students become successful?  

Absolutely. Our online library is a hidden gem. It is packed with research papers, industry case studies, and books; everything a learner needs to stay ahead! Certificate programmes are another big plus. They help broaden your skill set beyond the regular syllabus. 

Here are some campus immersion programs from MUJ you can explore: Bloomberg at MUJ, Integrated Tech Workshop. 

A Different Side of Dr Avnish

What do you enjoy doing in your free time? 

I have two things that come to mind. First, I enjoy keeping up with new tech trends. Keeping myself updated on the latest happenings in the technological world keeps me both sharp and curious. 

Secondly, I love movies! Give me a good thriller or even a silly comedy, and I’m set. Movies are my escape. They make me laugh, think, and sometimes even cry! 

Which film would you say is a must watch? Why?  

‘Dil Chahta Hai‘ is an absolute must-watch. Directed by Farhan Akhtar, it is an entire package! It showcases heartwarming friendship, growing up, learning who you are, and cherishing the bonds that hold you together. Also, the electrifying music. I do not think any other movie captures a mix of youth, love, and nostalgia so beautifully.  

What is the one piece of advice you would give your students?  

Be a learner, always. The world keeps changing, and staying curious is the best way to stay prepared. At the same time, take moments to relax; breaks are as important as working hard. Stay curious, be receptive to new ideas, and let the pursuit of learning be a guiding light on your path to success. 

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise your students. 

I’m not your typical, run-of-the-mill professor. I am more than a ‘finance guy’, in fact, I love singing and anchoring. Whether it’s hosting events or performing, I enjoy bringing energy and entertainment to the audience. It’s a side of me that’s very different from teaching, but it’s equally rewarding because it connects me with people in a whole new way. 

If you were not a teacher, you would be.. 

In an alternate universe, I think I imagine myself being a part of the exciting world of technology development. I’ve always been fascinated by tech, whether it’s about creating something new or solving unsolved problems in innovative ways. The thought of building something new and being part of the next big wave of innovation excites me. 

How do you think students will remember you and your classes?  

I hope students will remember my classes as a transformative journey, not just through the subject I teach but also in a way where I have encouraged their personal growth. I want them to walk away saying, “Avnish sir’s classes made me sharper, more confident, and wiser!” 

What is the one daily habit you would recommend to your students?  

Prioritise moments of relaxation and downtime. Small breaks can do a lot. 

Of course, no faculty feature is complete without some fun facts. Dr. Vijay’s must-have apps are Amazon and Netflix, his go-to daily ritual is tea with a light-hearted drama, and he can sing “Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas” start to finish without missing a beat. 

Closing Thoughts

At Manipal University Jaipur, faculty like Dr Avnish Vijay embody a perfect blend of academic expertise, mentorship, and culture. His journey shows us that teaching is not just about sharing knowledge but also about shaping mindsets and inspiring lifelong learning. Students under his guidance don’t just walk away with lessons in finance and strategy, they leave with lessons of confidence, curiosity, and deeply instilled values.  

Explore what MUJ has to offer and begin with your journey of growth and discovery.