M.R. Rangaswami’s journey to the United States in 1976 wasn’t just a relocation; it was a transformative odyssey characterized by uncertainty and the pursuit of new opportunities. Disillusioned by the emergency situation in India, Rangaswami, then a law student, felt compelled to seek a fresh start. An invitation from his brother to upstate New York became the catalyst for a journey that would reshape his life trajectory.
Reflecting on his American journey in a recent episode of The Trailblazers, streamed on the DesiMax YouTube channel, Rangaswami reminisced about his early experiences, career evolution, and the founding of Indiaspora—an organization engaging Indian diaspora leaders worldwide.
Arriving in New York City with minimal funds due to strict foreign exchange regulations, Rangaswami’s journey mirrored the struggles and resilience of countless immigrants of that era. Navigating his way to New Jersey and then Upstate New York, he embarked on a journey that offered a firsthand glimpse of America’s diverse landscapes and bustling cities.
His pursuit of an MBA at Kent State University in Ohio exposed him to a new world, but the recessionary job market prompted a move to Houston, Texas, where opportunities in the oil industry beckoned. Supported by friends in Houston, Rangaswami experienced the solidarity prevalent among immigrant communities, yet it was Silicon Valley that held the promise of a new frontier.
Encouraged by an encounter with a consultant, he set his sights on Silicon Valley, where he witnessed the tech revolution firsthand. Joining Oracle marked a significant milestone, exposing him to the visionary leadership of Larry Ellison and the dynamic environment of a burgeoning tech industry.
Following stints in various roles and companies, Rangaswami transitioned into angel investing, founding Indiaspora—a network fostering unity and collaboration among the Indian diaspora worldwide. The organization’s inception stemmed from Rangaswami’s vision to address fragmentation within the community and promote political engagement, entrepreneurship, innovation, and philanthropy.
Looking ahead, Rangaswami envisions Indiaspora as a global force for good, connecting India to influential diasporas worldwide. Emphasizing inclusivity and intergenerational collaboration, he underscores the importance of gender equality and youth engagement within the organization.
In his wide-ranging interview, Rangaswami also discussed his family, sustainability initiatives, philanthropic endeavors, and Indiaspora’s advocacy efforts for the Diwali stamp issued by the United States Postal Service.
