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. Mayank Jain, CEO, New Auto- CarDekho Group talks to BrandWagon Online about his weekends, favourite vacation destination and more.
What is the one thing you like to do when not working?
I love playing sports, especially tennis and football and most of my downtime is spent playing. Beyond the health benefits, playing sports gives me an incredible adrenaline rush. Whether it’s smashing a tennis ball across the court or delivering that perfect pass on the field, it’s an exhilarating feeling that keeps me energised.
How do you spend your weekends?
My weekends are all about unwinding with family and friends and enjoying quality time together. We often head out for a meal or grab drinks, whether at a favourite spot or exploring new places. These moments really help me recharge and keep my work-life balance in check.
What are your favourite gadgets?
I’m not much of a gadget person, to be honest. However, if we’re talking about mechanical marvels, cars are my true passion. I take great pride in maintaining my cars and keeping them in perfect condition. I also love taking them on long drives — there’s nothing quite like the experience of cruising on an open road, especially during peaceful night drives or long weekend trips.
Given an option to choose another career, what would it be?
It would be architecture. The idea of creating buildings that are both functionally efficient and aesthetically pleasing really inspires me. There’s something magical about seeing a well-designed structure and knowing it enhances not just the skyline but people’s daily lives. I’m fascinated by how architects blend creativity with problem-solving, using their skills to shape the environments where we live, work, and play. While I’m passionate about my current path, the thought of leaving a lasting impact through thoughtfully designed spaces is incredibly appealing.
Which is your favourite vacation spot?
My favourite vacation spot is Italy. The country offers a magical blend of beauty, rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and mouth-watering food. The warmth of the people, the unhurried pace of life, and the way Italians celebrate beauty in everyday moments never fail to captivate me.
A TV show, a movie, and an ad campaign you highly recommend watching?
For a movie, I’d highly recommend “Birdman (or The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)”. It’s a brilliantly crafted film with a unique narrative style that keeps you engaged while diving deep into themes of identity, fame, and self-worth. As for TV shows, “Succession” is an absolute must-watch. It’s a gripping drama that delves into the world of a dysfunctional media dynasty, showcasing brilliant writing, complex characters, and stellar performances. The show’s dark humor and sharp commentary on wealth and power make it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
In terms of ad campaigns, I really admire Ikea’s recent season campaign, ‘Ikea celebrates the joy of unscripted moments.’ It beautifully captures the spirit of the festivities we all cherish. The film showcases those classic gatherings filled with joyful moments and delightful twists.
Then there’s Nike’s Just Do It campaign, which has never failed to impress me with its simplicity and impact. The slogans are short, catchy, and so memorable—perfect for print and TV advertising. I like how, even as the campaigns have evolved over the years, Nike has seamlessly adapted to changing consumer trends and attitudes. It really highlights the strength of their brand.
Lastly, Godrej’s bold and creative out-of-home (OOH) advertising campaign has also been outstanding, grabbing significant attention and leaving a lasting impression. It genuinely reflects the brand’s journey, which is deeply intertwined with India’s path toward self-reliance. It’s inspiring to see such meaningful storytelling in advertising.