Weekends are all about down time. 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. Shreeranganath Kulkarni, chief operating officer and managing director, InfoVision, talks to BrandWagon Online about his weekends, favourite vacation destination and more.
What is the one thing you like to do when not working?
When I’m not working, the one thing I truly value is exposing myself to new experiences, perspectives, and learnings. Sometimes this is through travelling to unexplored places, where the journey becomes a shared adventure with like-minded co-travellers. The other times this happens through delving into the depths of old war movies that underscore the resilience and ingenuity of the human spirit amidst adversity. Both avenues teach me the importance of seeking opportunity in every challenge and viewing the world with a fresh perspective.
How do you spend your weekends?
Reading, driving, and savouring cuisine! The joy of indulging in delectable dishes is something that re-energises my spirit. I find myself hopping from one restaurant to another, seeking those unique culinary flavours wherever I roam. On the other hand, reading is my passport to the vast landscapes of knowledge and varied viewpoints. It not only allows me to confront and broaden my own perspectives but also offers a chance to unlearn some entrenched beliefs. While our traditional thought processes often originate from our upbringing, reading paves the way for making choices that stand apart from our past.
What are your favourite gadgets?
Undoubtedly, my mobile phone holds the title of my most cherished gadget — it truly does it all. Beyond its day-to-day utilities, it acts as a fountain of knowledge, a refuge for relaxation, and an indispensable bridge of communication. Each weekend, I earmark a few hours specifically to touch base with friends and extended family. Despite the whirlwind of our daily lives, it’s paramount for me to nurture these bonds, beyond just my immediate family/business circle.
Given an option to choose another career, what would it be?
If I had the opportunity to pursue a different career, I’d choose to be a tourist guide. The prospect of connecting with people resonates deeply with me, and exploring new places is a passion. It’s remarkable how each new destination offers something novel and inspiring. As a former engineering student, I never had a strong inclination towards the arts. However, in early 2006, while on a business trip to London with my client partner, we decided to explore the National Art Gallery during a long weekend. The gallery has around 44 rooms and surprisingly, despite having visited the gallery at least 30 times since that visit, I am yet to explore all 44 rooms. These intricate paintings, each taking anywhere from 6 months to 10 years to complete, tell unique stories. This experience ignited a newfound passion within me and today, I visit art galleries whenever I get an opportunity. Therefore an Art Curator, an Art Critic or perhaps a Museum Educator or guide may have been alternate choices.
Which is your favourite vacation spot?
Among all the places I’ve travelled to, Goa remains my favourite. What sets Goa apart is its spontaneity—you can simply pack your bags, hit the road, and find yourself on the sun-kissed beaches in no time. There’s an unparalleled joy in playing on the beaches and losing track of time while gazing at the endless sky by the shore.
A TV show, a movie, and an ad campaign you highly recommend watching.
I have a strong liking for war movies—there’s something about their intensity and narratives that I find immensely captivating. Lately, I’ve also developed an affinity for off-beat films as they offer a fresh and unique cinematic experience that I truly appreciate. What truly intrigues me about off-beat movies is their ability to evoke hidden emotions and prompt viewers to connect with the storyline, characters, and themes on a deeper level.
I’m also drawn to movies like Harrison Ford’s ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’, Tom Cruise’s ‘Mission Impossible’, and James Bond movies. These films often emphasize technique over sheer physical strength, making them a cerebral delight. Additionally, I have a liking for stories related to contemporary monarchy, such as “The Crown,” which delves into the intricacies of the British monarchy. Similarly, movies exploring the history of Russian Czars and other historical subjects pique my interest. When a film is steeped in history, it tends to capture my attention and curiosity.