Quiet confidence, genuine warmth and absolute humility: Hemant Arora remembers Atul Hegde
Truecaller’s Hemant Arora remembered Atul Hegde not only for his entrepreneurial achievements, but also for his humility, approachability and the warmth he brought to every industry interaction
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Published: Jul 7, 2026 8:26 PM | 1 min read
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- Hemant Arora, Vice President & Global Head of Truecaller Ads Business, paid tribute to digital marketing pioneer Atul Hegde, reflecting on their two-decade acquaintance.
- Arora emphasized Hegde's significant contributions to the digital advertising industry and his entrepreneurial success with YAAP.
- He praised Hegde's grounded nature, humility, and genuine warmth, noting that he earned respect through his character rather than authority.
- Arora expressed sorrow over the loss of Hegde, highlighting both his professional impact and personal qualities.
Hemant Arora, Vice President & Global Head, Truecaller Ads Business at Truecaller, has shared a heartfelt tribute to digital marketing pioneer Atul Hegde, reflecting on more than two decades of knowing him.
I first met Atul sometime around 2003 or 2004, when India's digital advertising industry was still finding its feet. Over the years, our paths crossed many times, and while we were industry colleagues, I always felt he was someone who could just as easily have been a close friend.
What I admired most wasn't just what he built with YAAP or the entrepreneurial journey he carved out. It was the person behind the success. In an industry where achievements can often change people, Atul remained incredibly grounded, humble and approachable. Every interaction with him felt genuine.
He was one of those rare leaders who earned respect not because he demanded it, but because of the way he carried himself. Quiet confidence, genuine warmth, and absolute humility. Those are the qualities I'll remember him for.
The industry has lost one of its pioneers, but more importantly, we've lost a genuinely good human being.
Rest in peace, Atul. You will be missed.
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