Weekends are all about downtime. After a week full of work to meet deadlines, everybody needs some breather to relax and recuperate. From watching a favourite web series to planning a vacation, weekends are designated as family and me time. Harsha Solanki, VP GM – Asia, Infobip, talks to BrandWagon Online about her weekends, favourite vacation destination and more.
What is the one thing you like to do when not working?
Up until a few days back, playing with my dog ‘Angel’ was one of life’s purest and most delightful pleasures, especially during those precious moments when work takes a backseat. It was a heart-warming and joyful experience that enriched my life in several ways. Interacting with my furry companion brought an instant smile to my face. Whether it was a game of fetch, a romp in the park, or simply cuddling on the couch, our connection was genuine and unconditional. Playing with her provided a welcome break from the demands of daily life. It was a refreshing escape that rejuvenated the spirit and offered a reminder of the simple pleasures that make life beautiful. It was in those moments of laughter, tail-wagging excitement and shared affection that I found solace and pure happiness.
Angel has found her wings and flown to heaven, and as an ode to her, I would continue to use my spare time to bring about positive changes in the lives of the community animals.
How do you spend your weekends?
Spending weekends with my family is a cherished ritual where I revel in every little moment, weaving new memories into the tapestry of our lives. These weekends are a source of genuine rejuvenation, recharging my spirit for the upcoming week. I am quite blessed to have my parents stay close by, so weekends usually mean enjoying some of my favourite dishes cooked by my Mom at their place. As a family, we like to explore food, places and new cultures. The weekend is the perfect time for us to plan something simple and new. For me, real happiness comes from being with my family. It’s those moments of laughter, shared meals and leisurely outings that really fill me with joy. I find the true essence of happiness and the strength to face the challenges that the coming week throws at me.
What are your favourite gadgets?
Keeping it simple, my favourite gadget is my iPhone. This device perfectly encapsulates my appreciation for innovation, connectivity and style, making it the ultimate companion for my personality. As someone who values staying connected in this fast-paced world, my iPhone is my social hub and lifeline to the digital realm. It seamlessly integrates with my various social and professional circles, allowing me to communicate, collaborate and share experiences effortlessly. Just as I prioritise building and nurturing relationships, my phone is the key to maintaining those connections, no matter where I am.
Furthermore, my phone serves as my assistant, helping me manage tasks, schedules and projects. Just as I thrive on juggling multiple responsibilities and maintaining a busy lifestyle, my iPhone keeps me on track and in control.
Given an option to choose another career, what would it be?
If I had the opportunity to choose another career, I’d be drawn to interior design. The prospect of creating aesthetically pleasing and functional spaces is not only creatively fulfilling but also allows for practical problem-solving. It’s a career that merges artistic expression with the need for practicality and user experience. I’d relish the chance to design spaces that inspire and improve people’s quality of life. Interior design offers the opportunity to work with diverse clients, explore various design styles and continually evolve in a dynamic and ever-changing field.
Which is your favourite vacation spot?
In India, it would be the seven sisters (Mizoram, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland). I was born into a military family. While growing up, I studied and stayed in Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal, which allowed me to immerse myself in a vibrant tapestry of cultures, languages and traditions. These states are celebrated for their unique traditions, festivals and various indigenous communities.
Some of the states in this region have breathtaking natural landscapes, from lush tea plantations to rolling hills, dense forests and serene rivers. Adventurous activities like trekking, wildlife safaris and river rafting are available in many of these states, making it a great choice for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in visiting ancient monasteries in Arunachal Pradesh, enjoying the serene beauty of Meghalaya’s living root bridges, or savouring the aromatic tea in Assam, there’s something for everyone in this culturally diverse and visually stunning part of India.
The north-eastern region’s culinary diversity is also a major attraction, with a wide range of dishes and flavours to savour, including Assam tea, bamboo shoots, traditional thalis and local delicacies. The local festivals and cultural events are vibrant and unique, providing a glimpse into the region’s heritage and traditions.
Above all, the hospitality of the people in Northeast India is deeply rooted in their culture. It reflects their openness, respect for guests, and commitment to preserving their rich cultural heritage. I was quite lucky to have made some friends during my tenure there and can vouch for their simplicity, kindness and warmth towards everyone.
A TV show, a movie, and an ad campaign you highly recommend watching.
One TV show that I highly recommend watching is ‘Black Mirror’. Created by Charlie Brooker, it is a thought-provoking and dystopian science fiction anthology series. Each episode is a standalone story, exploring various aspects of modern society and technology, often with a dark and cautionary twist. The show delves into the impact of technology on our lives, examining themes like privacy, social media, artificial intelligence, and the consequences of technological advancements. The show is known for its intelligent storytelling and ability to provoke discussions about the ethical and moral implications of our increasingly digital world. It’s a reminder of modern technology’s power and potential pitfalls and encourages critical thinking about the choices we make in a digitally connected society.
“Cast Away” is my all-time favourite movie because it masterfully combines powerful storytelling with incredible acting. Tom Hanks’ performance is extraordinary as he takes the audience on a journey of survival, solitude, and self-discovery. The film’s exploration of the human spirit’s resilience in the face of adversity resonates deeply with me. It showcases the importance of connection, whether with fellow humans or even a volleyball, highlighting the innate need for companionship. The movie’s cinematography captures the stark beauty of the deserted island and underscores the central themes of time, transformation and hope. It is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and move me every time I watch it.
My favourite ad is “Dove Real Beauty Sketches | You’re more beautiful than you think”. It conveys a significant and empowering message about self-perception and beauty. This campaign challenges societal beauty standards and encourages individuals to recognise their own unique beauty and self-worth. The use of real women in the ad adds authenticity, making it relatable and inclusive. The emotional impact of the ad is profound, as it highlights the disparity between how individuals see themselves and how others perceive them. This ad sparked essential conversations about self-esteem, body image, and the influence of media on self-perception, leading to a broader societal discourse on these critical issues.
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