We recently had the chance to connect with Major Gurjeet Singh and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Major Gurjeet, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? Have you stood up for someone when it cost you something?
Yes, I have stood up for others—even when it cost me comfort, opportunity, money or acceptance. In a world where most people salute the rising sun and gravitate toward those above them, I have always believed in looking downward—to lift those who are struggling. True leadership is not measured by who stands with you at the top, but by how many souls you help rise. Through GIVE (Global Initiative of Veterans), I live the philosophy that giving is not charity—it is duty. When you give, something divine awakens within you; science calls it serotonin, but I call it grace. As a proud Sikh, the spirit of SEVA (selfless service) runs in my blood, and the tradition of Langar (Daily free food for all in sikh temples) reminds us that no one should sleep hungry on this Earth. Serving humanity is not an act for applause; it is a responsibility engraved into my very being.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I was born in a Sikh family in the interiors of Punjab, India.
After the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947, my parents were displaced with nothing, starting life from scratch. I was born six years later and, as a Sikh, the warriors & protectors of humanity, I joined the army. I served for 21 years in the Corps of Engineers, specializing in bomb disposal, dealing with live mines & explosives, and the construction of many defence projects. With a master’s degree in engineering, I later built a life in America, founding Napa Finance Group, where I’ve funded countless dreams, in business purchases and housing for over 28 years. In 2016, I founded GIVE, a nonprofit that uplifts deaf children, blind girls, and homeless people. This is who I am—a survivor, a servant, a humble leader, and a giver.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
In my view, it is the ego of human beings that breaks the bonds between us—whether between individuals, families, communities, or even nations. When we let ego dominate, it breeds division—over religion, power, and greed. If we set aside our ego, we see that we are all one human family, with the same energy within us. As Alexander the Great reminded us, even after conquering the world, he left empty-handed. I believe if we curb ego and see the same divine spark in all beings—humans, animals, plants—we can move from “us versus them” to “we”—a united world on Earth. Without borders, without armies, just one global government—where each nation has a voice—so that peace and humanity prevail.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
In my view, suffering and success are not ends in themselves; they are sacred events on our journey. It is our ego and perception that define them—we see success as joy and suffering as pain. But life is not happening to us; it is unfolding for us, a divine flow of lessons. Whether in joy or pain, each moment is a teacher, guiding us toward deeper wisdom. As we release attachment, we connect to the universal energy within all beings. In this way, we grow in compassion, and our spirits awaken to the infinite oneness of existence.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
In my view, the finance industry is built on a dangerous lie. They take your money for security, charge you fees, and then lend it back at exorbitant interest—fueled by fear and greed. The tallest buildings of banks and insurance companies in the world stand on the most expensive real estate with these profits.
At Napa Finance Group, I break that mold. I don’t chase my own gain; I focus on giving my clients the best possible deal. Trust is the foundation—I often advise against my own profit if it’s not right for them. I’ve earned clients’ respect by putting them first, in a world where too many fall prey to bankruptcy and broken dreams. This industry needs a revolution, and at Napa, I aim to be a beacon of integrity, relationships, and care.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
Most people do not see that everything in this universe unfolds by the order of a higher power or nature. When we believe “I” did it, that is just the ego speaking. Most don’t realize that we have two minds: one is the stream of everyday thoughts, and the other is a pure, conscious awareness. When we become aware of our thoughts—like clouds passing, positive or negative—we see that all is guided by a divine law of nature. This divine power is beyond any name or form. When we recognize that life happens through us, not by us, the ego dissolves. And in that freedom, we no longer hate or despise, but live in peace and unity.
Contact Info:
- Website: www,napafinance.com
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/major-gurjeet-singh-8926591/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/major.singh/
Image Credits
Major Gurjeet Singh
