From legacy to scale: Leadership and the future of growth

Urban India has been undergoing a significant transformation over the past two decades, with Tier-2 cities emerging as key growth drivers in the real estate sector. According to a report by Knight Frank India¹, cities like Lucknow have witnessed consistent growth in residential demand, driven by infrastructure upgrades, improved connectivity, and rising income levels. This shift reflects a broader decentralization trend, where development is no longer confined to metropolitan hubs but is expanding into emerging urban centers.According to estimates², nearly 40% of India’s population is expected to live in urban areas by 2030, significantly increasing the demand for planned and integrated urban development models These projects, which combine residential, commercial, and social infrastructure within a single ecosystem, are gaining traction due to their ability to offer convenience and long-term value. As urban populations grow, such planned developments are seen as a solution to challenges related to congestion, accessibility, and sustainability.At the same time, the role of leadership in navigating this evolving landscape has become more complex. The real estate sector is characterised by long project cycles, regulatory dependencies, and capital-intensive operations. Industry studies by Deloitte³ indicate that success in this environment often depends on consistency in execution, risk management, and the ability to balance operational demands with long-term strategic vision, factors that increasingly define modern business leadership.In Lucknow’s rapidly transforming urban landscape, Shalimar Corp has played a significant role in shaping both residential and commercial development. Established in 1988, the company has evolved into a diversified business group with interests spanning real estate, infrastructure, and construction, steadily building its presence across North India.Over the years, Shalimar Corp has delivered a substantial development footprint, with over 21 million square feet of completed and ongoing projects, more than 60 + Projects developments, and a customer base of over 8,500 families. Its portfolio ranges from integrated townships and premium residential complexes to commercial hubs and government infrastructure projects, reflecting both scale and diversity.Among its developments is a large integrated township, Shalimar One World, spread across more than 223 acres, designed to bring together residential and commercial spaces, amenities, and infrastructure within a single ecosystem. In addition, projects such as Shalimar Sky Garden, Shalimar Gallant West, Shalimar KSMB Garden Bay Crown and Shalimar Mannat Extension 3 including expansion into cities like Varanasi and other parts of Uttar Pradesh, reflects its presence across both housing and commercial segments. Beyond private developments, the company has also contributed to public infrastructure through projects Beyond private developments, the organization has also contributed to public infrastructure projects in Lucknow, such as the Alambagh Bus Terminal and Hazratganj Multilevel Parking in Lucknow, underlining its role beyond conventional real estate.This trajectory reflects a consistent approach - focused on long-term development, planned expansion, and creating organised urban spaces in a city that continues to grow in both scale and complexity.At the center of this evolving journey is Kunal Seth, who represents the next phase of leadership within the organization. As Director, Seth is involved in strategic decision-making, project oversight, and aligning execution with the company’s long-term vision.Operating in a sector defined by long timelines and high capital investment, his role requires balancing multiple variables - from regulatory frameworks and construction cycles to customer expectations and market dynamics. In such an environment, consistency and structured execution become key differentiators.Parallel to his role in business, Seth has built a distinct identity in competitive sport.A competitive shotgun shooter at both state and national levels, he has participated in national championships and earned a gold medal at the state level. At the 68th National Shotgun Shooting Championship 2025, he was recognised as a Renowned Shooter of India4, an acknowledgment that underscores his sustained discipline, technical precision, and commitment to the sport rather than casual involvement.His recognition at the Times of India Sports Awards in Lucknow further underscores this aspect of his journey, placing him among individuals who have demonstrated notable achievement in sport while continuing to operate in demanding professional roles.While real estate development and competitive shooting operate in entirely different environments, both demand similar fundamentals - focus, consistency, and the ability to perform under pressure. In shooting, outcomes are immediate and exact; in business, they unfold over extended periods. However, in both cases, performance is built on preparation and discipline.Seth’s ability to sustain both reflects a structured approach to time and priorities. Training schedules are integrated into a routine that also includes business operations, site reviews, and strategic planning. This dual engagement is not incidental but maintained through consistency over time.For Shalimar Corp, such leadership reflects in its operational approach as well. The emphasis on planned developments, strategic locations, and integrated communities aligns with a broader vision of organised urban growth. Its projects are designed not only as standalone structures but as environments that contribute to lifestyle and infrastructure.At a broader level, the combined journey of Shalimar Corp and Kunal Seth reflects two parallel narratives - one of institutional scale and another of individual discipline. While the company continues to expand its footprint across residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects, Seth’s achievements in sport highlight the role of focus and consistency beyond professional responsibilities.References - Disclaimer: This article has been produced on behalf of Shalimar Corp. by Times Internet’s Spotlight team.