Mundhe made the remarks during an interaction at the Global Maratha Business Expo held in Pimpri-Chinchwad. He was asked what advice he would give if his children sought his guidance on choosing between a career in the civil services and entrepreneurship. In response, he said he would recommend that they become public leaders.

Mundhe emphasised the importance of contributing to society's development as a member of the community. He also clarified that his children should make their own career decisions, choosing the field they wish to enter and the way they want to lead according to their individual preferences. However, when asked specifically whether he would advise them to become IAS officers, his answer would be "No."

The officer's remarks come at a time when his work in Maharashtra has attracted attention in India and abroad. The New York Times recently featured Mundhe on its front page, describing him as a "rockstar" and a "food safety celebrity." Its headline characterised a food safety inspector in India as a rockstar. The report noted that diners respect him while restaurant owners fear him.

As the chief of Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration, Mundhe has launched a major campaign against food adulterators. The drive has rapidly brought him into the spotlight, turning him into a widely discussed IAS officer.

Known for his strict discipline and uncompromising approach to official responsibilities, Mundhe is regarded as an exceptionally honest and tough administrator. His insistence on discipline, however, has often been difficult for others to accommodate. His career has consequently been marked by repeated transfers.

Mundhe has frequently spoken about the impact of these transfers on his family, particularly his children. He has said that constantly moving from one place to another prevented his children from developing lasting friendships.

Mundhe has a daughter and a son. The source identifies their names as Agasya Mundhe and Ashana Mundhe, respectively. His comments about the civil services and public leadership have brought renewed attention to the personal consequences of his career and the choices he believes his children should be free to make.

His remarks at the Global Maratha Business Expo offer a glimpse into how his experiences as an IAS officer have shaped his views on public service, leadership and the importance of allowing the next generation to choose its own path.