Today, he’s a billionaire businessman and one of Dubai’s most influential entrepreneurs, but his journey began in the modest surroundings of Ghatkopar, Mumbai in a small lane filled with hope, hustle, and the glow of festivity.
It was 1988, and Diwali was approaching. The air was filled with excitement, lights, and laughter. Amid the whole celebration, a 10-year-old Anis had a different idea. He wanted to earn his own pocket money and not ask for it. With a few rupees in hand, he visited Crawford Market, one of Mumbai’s busiest and most colorful bazaars, and bought a box of Diwali lights. Returning home, he set up a tiny stall below his building, arranging the twinkling lights neatly to catch the attention of neighbors and passersby.
For a young boy from the slums of Ghatkopar, it was a bold move and his first attempt at business. Residents from his building stopped by, impressed by his enthusiasm and honesty, and many bought from him. Within days, he had sold over half his stock, and his confidence was soaring.
Then came a small challenge, the municipality officers noticed his makeshift stall and approached him. Most children would have panicked. But not Anis. Even at ten, he had the confidence of a born salesman. He spoke to them politely, explained that he was just trying to sell lights for Diwali, not causing any disturbance, and promised to clear up responsibly. His calm persuasion and sincerity worked as the officers smiled, appreciated his spirit, and allowed him to continue.
At that moment, Anis says, taught him his first big business lesson: when you speak with conviction and honesty, even authority listens.
“I still remember how supportive my building residents were, they bought over 50% of my stock,” Anis recalls. “As a kid trying to earn some pocket money, I was on cloud nine! That’s one of my most fond memories from Diwali, and that’s why it’s a festival that’s very close to my heart.”
By the end of the festive week, Anis had earned ₹300 ($3.40), a small sum by today’s standards, but a fortune for a boy of his age and background. More importantly, it was his first taste of independence and the moment that sparked his lifelong love for entrepreneurship.
A few years later, Anis moved to Kuwait, seeking better opportunities. But when he returned to India, he found his next big break, a job at Eureka Forbes, selling water purifiers. It was his first professional role, and he approached it with the same enthusiasm that had powered his Diwali stall. Going door to door, he learned the art of sales, communication, and perseverance.
“It was the best sales training anyone could get,” he says. “I learned to face rejection, stay confident, and close every deal with conviction.”
His dedication paid off by 1991, he earned INR 25,000 a month, a significant income at the time. That phase shaped him into the driven, resilient leader he would one day become. With confidence, experience, and an unstoppable mindset, Anis eventually made his move to Dubai, where he transformed his skills into a billion-dollar business legacy.
Today, he stands among the UAE’s most successful business figures, affectionately known as “Mr. Cricket UAE.” But through all his achievements, Anis never lost sight of where it all began with a young boy, a box of Diwali lights, and an unwavering belief in himself.
“Diwali reminds me that every light starts with a spark,” says Anis. “For me, that spark was selling those Diwali lights and it still burns bright today.”
From the slums of Ghatkopar to the skyline of Dubai, Anis Sajan’s journey is a masterclass in courage, confidence, and character. That first stall nearly shut down by the municipality became the foundation of a life built on persistence and persuasion. From earning ₹300 under his building to building an empire across borders, his story is living proof that sometimes, all it takes is one bright idea and the courage to keep it shining.
