If you are sincere and true to your work, you will be respected.

Hear the words of Riteish Deshmukh, who spoke with humility and wisdom: “If you are sincere and true to your work, you will be respected. And for me, respect is power.” In this declaration shines a principle eternal: that honor is not purchased by wealth, nor seized by force, but earned by sincerity and faithfulness to one’s craft. To be true to your work is to walk in harmony with truth itself, and from such devotion springs the greatest strength—not fear, not domination, but respect.

The meaning of his words reaches to the essence of human labor. In every age, people have sought power, striving for control over others. Many have pursued it through arms, cunning, or gold. Yet Deshmukh reveals a higher path: the power that comes when others freely grant you their esteem. Respect cannot be stolen; it is given willingly, in recognition of one’s authenticity. When you work with sincerity, you demonstrate integrity. When you remain true to your calling, you reveal strength of character. And those who witness this cannot help but honor you.

The origin of this teaching is rooted in Deshmukh’s own life as an actor, architect, and servant of the people. Surrounded by the glitter of fame and the temptations of vanity, he discovered that applause fades and fortune shifts, but respect endures. His words echo the wisdom of all who have walked the path of creation: that only the work done with a pure heart commands lasting reverence. For respect is not granted for titles or possessions, but for the soul that labors with honesty.

History offers us shining proof. Consider Mahatma Gandhi, a frail man with no throne, no army, and no wealth. Yet through sincerity and unwavering truth, he earned the respect of millions. That respect became his power, greater than swords or guns, for it bound people together in unity and courage. The British Empire, mighty and proud, was brought low not by violence but by the power of respect earned through truth. Gandhi’s life illustrates Deshmukh’s words: sincerity in one’s work transforms into honor, and honor into strength.

We see the same in the story of Florence Nightingale, who in the filth of battlefield hospitals worked with devotion to the suffering. She sought no glory, only healing. Her sincerity won the admiration of soldiers and generals alike, and her respect became power—the power to reform medicine itself, saving countless lives. Her legacy endures not because she commanded, but because she served with truth.

The emotional force of Deshmukh’s words lies in the union of humility and greatness. He does not chase power for its own sake, but understands that true power flows from respect, and respect flows from sincerity. This is a law deeper than politics, deeper than fame. It is a law of the human heart. And those who learn it will hold an authority greater than crowns, for it cannot be stolen or broken.

The lesson is plain: in your own life, labor with sincerity. Do not seek shortcuts, for they may bring profit but never respect. Do not wear false masks, for they may win applause but never loyalty. Instead, be true to your craft, your word, your vision. Respect will follow you as a shadow follows the body, and from that respect will come influence, trust, and power that endures beyond your days.

Therefore, let these words guide your path: “Be sincere, be true, earn respect, and wield its power with humility.” For riches fade, strength declines, and fame dissolves, but respect—born of truth—is eternal. Walk this path, and you shall not only rise in the eyes of others, but also in the quiet tribunal of your own soul.