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. Arun Surendra, group managing director, VST Group, talks to BrandWagon Online about his weekends, favourite vacation destination and more.
1. What is the one thing you like to do when not working?
Growing up in an urban environment, I’ve come to realise that we often overlook the beauty of the outdoors. Personally, I find solace in activities like running or working out and recently, nurturing my garden at home. While I may not always be knee-deep in soil and manure, I’ve discovered the value of slowing down and appreciating the tranquility of a garden amidst the hustle and bustle of city life.
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the frenzy of round-the-clock work. However, I’ve recognised the importance of carving out “quiet time” for myself. Whether it’s disconnecting from my laptop and phone to indulge in a movie or some music, I’ve made a conscious effort to prioritise moments of relaxation and rejuvenation.
One of my favorite pastimes is visiting my parents every day for a cup of coffee in their garden. It’s a simple yet precious ritual where we share stories, laughter, and create cherished memories together. These moments spent in the company of loved ones amidst the serene backdrop of nature are truly the highlights of my day.
2. How do you spend your weekends?
I strongly believe that the quality of one’s happiness is closely tied to the company they keep. For me, having a close-knit group of friends with whom I can truly unwind and enjoy a coffee, or a drink is essential.
Fortunately, our cities boast a plethora of fantastic restaurants, providing ample opportunities for culinary exploration. You’ll often find me out and about on the weekends, sampling food from the latest dining establishments that have sprung up. These culinary adventures not only tantalize the taste buds but also create lasting memories that I’ll cherish and reflect upon in the future. After all, good food and great company are the ingredients for a fulfilling life.
3. What are your favourite gadgets?
My top pick without a doubt would be my son’s favorite, the PlayStation 5! If only I could find the time to truly indulge in it. As geeky as it may sound, I believe there’s a playful inner child in all of us those delights in competitive gaming, especially now that we can connect and compete online with players from around the world.
In my leisure moments, I find immense joy in playing video games and bonding with my son over shared victories and challenges. It’s a wonderful way for us to connect and create lasting memories together. And if we’re considering gadgets in the form of cars (and let’s be honest, supercars are the epitome of tech, style, and innovation), then my all-time favorites include the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the Porsche 911 GT3, and the Jaguar F-Type. These vehicles embody the perfect blend of cutting-edge technology, timeless design, and exhilarating performance, making them truly irresistible to any automotive enthusiast.
4. Given an option to choose another career, what would it be?
Reflecting on the early days of the dotcom era in the early 2000s, I can’t help but imagine the excitement and anticipation that must have permeated the tech industry. I would’ve loved to have a career in that industry at that time.
It was a time when the world was on the cusp of the IT revolution, and riding the wave before the early dotcom boom would undoubtedly have been a life-changing and exhilarating experience. The landscape of technology was evolving rapidly, and being part of the pioneering efforts during that era must have felt like navigating uncharted territory akin to the wild west.
The thrill of venturing into the unknown, coupled with the potential for groundbreaking innovation, would have made it a truly maverick period in the history of IT.
While the past decade has seen remarkable advancements and an explosion of wealth and ideas, there’s something uniquely captivating about the early 2000s. It was a time of boundless possibilities and daring ventures, where visionaries dared to dream big and challenge the status quo. Indeed, the early days of the dotcom era will forever be remembered as a transformative period that laid the foundation for the digital revolution that followed.
5. Which is your favourite vacation spot?
Europe holds an abundance of history and culture, yet oftentimes travelers overlook the charm of its countryside and lesser-known cities. While language barriers may pose a challenge, modern technology, such as Google translation and digital maps, empowers us to explore off the beaten path with confidence. Anywhere away from the tourist hotspots offers a unique and enriching vacation experience waiting to be discovered.
Within India, my personal preference would be to embark on a trek in North India and to explore the enchanting landscapes of the northeast. The rugged beauty of the Himalayas and the cultural richness of the northeastern states offer a captivating journey filled with adventure and exploration. There’s something truly magical about immersing oneself in the natural splendor and cultural diversity of these regions, making them ideal destinations for unforgettable travel experiences.
6. A TV show, a movie, and an ad campaign you highly recommend watching.
Thrillers have always been my go-to genre, and I find myself captivated by stories filled with mystery and suspense, much like the gripping narratives of shows such as Narcos, The Diplomat, and Breaking Bad.