Category: Talks

The Heart And Drive Of P. V. Sindhu

Step onto the court of dreams with the rhythmic beats of a shuttlecock dancing through the air as we venture on a journey with the trailblazing force of Indian Badminton, the dazzling PV Sindhu. In the court where sweat mingles with passion, and every smash is a testament to grit, Sindhu’s story unfolds a symphony of skill, determination, and the soulful pursuit of victory. Join us as we dive into the heartbeat of a badminton maestro, where each stroke is a brushstroke on the canvas of her illustrious career.

ex : How does it feel to be an inspiration for so many aspiring badminton players around the world?
PV Sindhu : It feels good because many people take me as an inspiration and look up to me. When I was young, I used to look up to many people and wanted to be there someday. And today, when I’m there, and people look up to me, it feels terrific to know once upon a time, I was also one of them.

ex : Badminton requires quick reflexes and decision making, so is it safe to conclude you are a fast decisionmaker in everyday life?
PV : On court, yes, because we have to make decisions very quickly as we don’t have much time to think about it. We’ve to change in a second, no matter what happens, because you keep playing rallies, but in between the rallies, you have time to think, and we change the game accordingly. When I’m offcourt, I definitely take some time.

ex : You have a lot of silent power when you play, just like the XC60, you manage to stay calm and collected in high pressure situations. How do you do that?
PV : I go into the match thinking that I need to give my best because that’s what I’ve trained for. And I won’t deny that there won’t be pressure. Yes, there will be pressure, but we’ll have to stop thinking about others or what others are thinking. You have to go into the court thinking that you have to play your game and give you 100%. You have to focus on one point at a time and not think about the match because anything can happen at any moment. If you’re leading, you can’t think that the match is in your favour, or if you’re failing, you can’t think the match is done. So, every point is important, and you have to be focused and play your game.

ex : It’s too early to ask, but post-badminton, do you have any plans in mind?
PV : I feel there are many more years to go, and after that, I have a job as a Deputy Collector in the Andhra Pradesh Government. I’m also constructing a sports school cum academy in Vizag on the land the state government gifted me when I won an Olympic medal.

ex : Badminton has seen technological advancements like shuttlecock sensors. How do you think technology has impacted the sport?
PV : I think it’s good to have something innovative and new. Recently, while I was playing, there was a robot who was doing the shuttle control. Also, during a recent tournament, robots were helping us with carrying our bags as well as the shuttle cocks. So when we want to take a new shuttle cock, we can just take it from the robot, and then it replaces with a new one.

ex : One thing that you would like to change about professional badminton?
PV : I would like to improve a few things, like helping prospective talents to have good coaches, and it should start from the grassroots levels. I know there is support and talent, but we must go to the places, cities, as well as rural areas. And once it starts from the grassroots levels, there will be a lot of people coming forward.

ex : Can you tell us about your favourite badminton memory or match that has left a lasting impact on your career?
PV : Yes, winning a medal at the Rio Olympics 2016 is one of my favourite badminton memories, and there are some sad ones too, when I was injured in 2015 and was in a state of mind where I was unsure of my comeback.

ex : The XC60 has 6 intelligent airbags and several ADAS features for a safe and secure driving experience. Given the intensity of your career, what are some measures you actively take to prevent injury and ensure your body’s safety?
PV : Injuries are part of a sportsperson’s life, and I think to avoid them at some level, you have to strengthen your body, your legs, your arms, and everything. Also, every time you’re dealing with injuries, you must heel completely before you go back to the game.

ex : What advice would you give to young athletes who aspire to reach the same heights in their respective sports?
PV : Whichever sport it is, I want them to enjoy playing and enjoy what they do. It shouldn’t be like a burden, and they shouldn’t regret it later thinking, “Oh, why didn’t I do that? Or, Why didn’t I do this?” Whatever it is, you have to give your best and enjoy playing sport. And they need to understand that it’s not just a few months of hard work. It takes lots and lots of years of hard work to come to a level.

ex : The automotive industry is shifting towards electric vehicles. Have you considered going electric for your personal transportation needs?
PV : Currently, I don’t have an electric car, and as I’m busy with training and get tired often, my dad drops me to the court and picks me up when I’m done. But in future, I would definitely consider buying an electric car as it is good for the environment.

It feels good because many people take me as an inspiration and look up to me. When I was young, I used to look up to many people and wanted to be there someday.

QUICK BYTES

ex : If you could compete against any historical badminton player, living or not, who would it be?
PV Sindhu : I would love to play with Lin Dan (Chinese former badminton player). I’ve played with him, but I would love to play with him again. And if I’ll have to change something, it would be the 2016 and 2020 Olympics, when I played with Carolina and got silver.

ex : In a parallel universe where you’re not a badminton superstar, what do you think you’d be doing as a career?
PV : When I was young, I thought of becoming a doctor, but now I would say Badminton is much better.

ex : If a movie is being made, whom would you like to see portraying you on-screen, except Deepika Padukone?
PV : Honestly, I don’t have a particular name apart from Deepika Padukone, but I would love to see someone who knows how to play badminton and understand sports. I said Deepika because she’s tall-lean, has an athletic body and was a badminton player earlier. At the same time, Prakash sir is my mentor now and being his daughter, she knows what it takes to be a badminton player.

ex : What is your favourite tournament location?
PV : St. Jakobshalle in Basel, Switzerland, where I won The World Championship in 2019.

ex : Describe Volvo XC60 in three words.
PV : Comfortable, beautiful, and very spacious.



OnePlus Pad Go: GO and GET it!

I’ve been observing OnePlus’s moves since they first surfaced in 2013. They have a proven track record of releasing great products at a great price right from the start. 10 years later and things haven’t changed much, except for a few competitors sprouting up. The OnePlus Pad Go is a new budget tablet which is very reminiscent of its elder sibling, The OnePlus Pad. With differences in aspects like the processor, camera, battery and charging, let’s find out if it’s worth the 19,999 price tag that’s almost half when compared to its predecessor. 

Display: 

The first display aspect that caught my eye was the crisp 2.4K resolution IPS screen which combined with the sharp and vibrant calibration provides a very immersive content viewing and gaming experience. I highly trust that this helps the OnePlus Pad Go shine in its segment. The only minor inconvenience that came to my geeky attention was the refresh rate being at 90Hz instead of 120Hz but to people who don’t bother much for refresh rates, this shouldn’t be of much concern.

Design:

Whether it’s the metallic finish, the tactile buttons or even the overall sturdiness of this device, I like it. The glossy strip of plastic near the camera module adds a level of freshness to the age-old tablet design i.e the industry standard. Audio enthusiasts will also appreciate its quad speakers that provide ample bass, well balanced mids and clear treble. Movies, music and frequent video calls are handled really well by the OnePlus Pad Go.

However, nothing comes perfect in our imperfect world and what that means here is no 3.5mm headphone jack. For a device that positions itself as a media machine, this is a small disappointment. The seamless bluetooth 5.2 connectivity does try to make up for it but wired users will have to resort to a dongle. 

While we are on the topic of missing basic features, there’s no fingerprint scanner which means you’ll have to rely on the face unlock. Come on OnePlus, it’s 2023, everybody prefers biometric authentication over gimmicky facial recognition. 

Camera:

The camera performs decently in fair to good lighting conditions. The 8MP resolution both in the front and back is sufficient. You won’t find yourself complaining during zoom calls or the occasional tablet photography session. I was a little surprised to see the omission of a flash in the rear camera module, but I guess they have to cut costs somewhere. 

Performance:

It performs best when presented with everyday tasks but falls short when pushed to its limit in heavy games and other processor intensive tasks. The Helio G99 is definitely capable of handling all games but not so much if you like playing them on the highest settings for long periods of time. That said, navigating through multiple apps or browsing the web is as seemless as it gets. 

Battery and Charging:

With a 33W adaptor and an 8,000 mAh Li-Poly battery, the Pad Go shines in this department. A solid 2+ day life is easily expected and a respectable 1.5 day life if you decide to really push it. 

Software:

What I really enjoyed in the software department is the ease with which I was able to navigate, multitask and get things done in general. OnePlus seems to have customized Oxygen OS and made it more user friendly on a larger screen. I hope they add the option for using a split keyboard soon though, this addition will make it a complete experience. 

Verdict: 

The OnePlus Pad Go excels in several key areas, including its high-resolution display, versatile audio capabilities, tactile buttons, multitasking optimization, and premium build quality, making it a compelling choice in the slow Android tablet market. It’s a great choice for a younger family member or an avid OTT enthusiast all while proving worthy for individuals who love multitasking. 

Rating: ★★★★

TARA SUTARIA – Enchanting Beauty

Stars do shine without darkness, and Tara Sutaria is a great example – With a voice that can serenade the ears and a charisma that dances through every frame, Tara has not only graced the silver screen but also our hearts. She’s a multi-talented sensation who effortlessly glides between the realms of acting and music. Join us as we embark on a harmonious journey through the life and artistry of this Bollywood diva, where dreams blend with reality, and the stage is always set for a star-studded symphony.

Exhibit : Hey Tara, Welcome to Goa! You’re shooting for Exhibit Magazine again today, What’s the vibe & how are you feeling?
Tara Sutaria : Thank you so much! I am so excited to be in Goa, It’s one of my favourite places in the country. Really happy to be back!

Ex : Today we’re going to ask you some quick questions. The first one is: Snapchat stories or Instagram stories?
Tara : I am actually not on Snapchat so Instagram!

 

 

Ex : What’s your go-to comfort food?
Tara : It’s this Parsi dish that I grew up loving & I still love. In fact, whenever I am travelling & come back home, it is the first thing I like to have. It’s like a really nice soupy broth with meat & rice. It’s really simple & delicious.

Ex : If you were to star in a remake of any classic Bollywood movie, which one would it be?
Tara : Oh Gosh! I think ‘Chaudhvin Ka Chand’.

Ex : Describe your style in one word!
Tara : My style in one word would probably be – Classic.

Ex : A clumsy moment you cannot help but laugh about?
Tara : I was on one of my terraces and a guest was walking into my living room. The glass door was shut and I ran to welcome him and banged into the glass and fell backwards! I think that’s probably my clumsiest moment.

Ex : Would you rather Netflix binge or YouTube scroll?
Tara : Netflix! All the way.

 

 

Ex : Share one of your quirky or weird habits
Tara : I am always humming songs and it can irritate others sometimes. I am originally a singer so I am always either humming a song or snapping my fingers!

Ex : If your life had a theme song which one would it be?
Tara : I think it would be this French song called ‘La Vie En Rose’.

Ex : Call a person or text a person?
Tara : A little bit of both! I used to text more than I call but now I am doing both.

Ex : If you could wear only one outfit forever, what would it be?
Tara : I think a white maxi dress.

Ex : Would you rather have unlimited pizza or unlimited sushi?
Tara : Unlimited Pizza.

Ex : Selfies or Portraits?
Tara : Portraits.

Ex : Always speak in rhyme or only communicate by singing?
Tara : I love music so It has to be singing.

Ex : Never use social media again or never watch TV again?
Tara : That’s a tricky one… I wish for neither! But I guess never watch TV again as I’ve begun to enjoy communicating with others on social media.

Ex : If your life had a colour, what shade would it be?
Tara : I love White!

Ex : Always have a bad hair day or always wear a mismatched pair of shoes?
Tara : Oh Gosh! Never have a bad hair day, so I think I’ll go with mismatched shoes.

Ex : If you had a superpower solely to deal with Mumbai traffic, what would it be?
Tara : I think we all wish we had a superpower to deal with Mumbai traffic! I wish I could just skip it and explore the city.

Ex : What’s your favourite holiday destinations?
Tara : There are quite a few favourite holiday destinations. They keep changing every few years. I recently went to Paris and absolutely loved it. There’s always London and the Maldives!

In conversation with Uday Dodla, Senior Director, Automotive Business Development, Qualcomm India

Exhibit: How will technology change the automotive industry in 5-10 years?

Uday Dodla: Electric vehicles (EVs) will become mainstream in the next 5-10 years due to improvements in battery technology and nationwide charging infrastructure. Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) suited for Indian driving conditions will improve the safety quotient of cars. We will see progress in autonomous driving. Advanced cockpit systems will transform the console’s look and feel, and AI-driven personalisation will elevate in-car experiences. Data analytics will enable real-time contextual use cases. The same cybersecurity and privacy measures required in every other industry will also be expected of the automobile industry. In addition, technologies such as IoT, AI, and robotics will transform manufacturing in the Auto sector.

Ex: What is Qualcomm’s role in the automotive industry, and how has it evolved?

Uday: With over two decades of experience, Qualcomm is a trusted technology provider for the global automotive industry. We collaborate closely with global automakers and Tier-1 partners, who increasingly adopt our diverse portfolio of automotive solutions. In the past, the automotive industry primarily focused on cost-effective manufacturing, supported by R&D and skilled labour. However, the growing demand for intelligent, sustainable, next-generation features is driving advancements to enable more intelligent cockpits, connectivity, electrification, battery technology and autonomous driving, all built on a modular architecture. Automakers are redesigning vehicles’ electronics architecture and digital infrastructure, and we are positioning ourselves to be their trusted technology partner in this journey. We want to redefine the automotive and transportation tech landscape with ever-evolving products, technologies, and partnerships in all forms of vehicles – 4W Passenger Vehicles, 2 Wheelers & Commercial Vehicles. We focus on integrating consumer wireless technologies, semiconductors, cloud, and software platforms with technologies such as High-Performance. Edge Compute, 5G, AI and XR (Extended Reality) and adapt them to the Automotive domain. The Snapdragon Digital Chassis platform encompasses all these advanced features envisioned for the future car.

Ex: Can you tell us about any specific projects or collaborations Qualcomm is working on in the automotive sector?

Uday: We are working with players across the automotive ecosystem to build connected and intelligent vehicles. For instance, the recent Tata Nexon EV MAX and the Harrier and Safari are powered by our Snapdragon Digital Cockpit platform, as are Mahindra & Mahindra’s Scorpio N and XUV 700. We have invested in Ultraviolette Automotive through our investments arm, Qualcomm Ventures. The investment aims to enable the startup to scale up its presence in India and expand into international markets. We power the Smart Clusters on the OLA Electric S1 & S1Pro and the Ather Energy 450X scooters. Outside India, we have collaborated with Renault’s dedicated electric and software company, Ampere, and are working towards co-developing a centralised platform architecture for software-defined EVs powered by the Snapdragon Digital Chassis. Qualcomm also works with BMW, which focuses on the joint development of next-generation autonomous driving technologies. Our Snapdragon Ride Platform, developed for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and automated driving, also powers a fleet of vehicles by GM. Globally, we have entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Autotalks to enhance the safety quotient of C-V2X (cellular vehicle-to-everything) solutions. Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication technologies are increasingly important as they become critical sensors for automotive safety systems. Autotalks’ V2X safety solutions will augment our Snapdragon Digital Chassis product portfolio. We are collaborating with Salesforce and Visteon to develop a new intelligent, connected vehicle platform and a next-generation digital cockpit.

Ex: How do you see 5G technology impacting the automotive industry, and what is Qualcomm doing to prepare for this shift?

Uday: The high speeds, low delays, and enhanced connectivity of 5G will help improve vehicles’ safety and efficiency. 5G will be the foundational platform for developing connected vehicles, autonomous driving, and intelligent transportation systems. It will enable better traffic management and allow vehicles to communicate with each other, pedestrians, and the smart infrastructure nearby. The integration of C-V2X technology with cellular connectivity will enable advanced alerts and driver assistance, significantly improving driver safety. We recently announced the Snapdragon Auto 5G Modem-RF Gen 2 – our most advanced automotive modem-RF system. As 5G networks spread and strengthen across the country, we will see more and deeper collaborations between players in the automotive ecosystem.

Ex: How do you see the relationship between tech companies like Qualcomm and traditional automakers evolving in the coming years?

Uday: As car electronics evolve towards a Software Oriented Architecture and include aspects such as autonomous driving, and advanced cockpit systems with high-speed connectivity, there will be increasingly higher engagement between automakers and technology providers such as Qualcomm. While we work closely with our Tier-1 partners, we are seeing a shift among the automakers to have more direct conversations with technology companies to keep up with the fast pace of technology innovation. We have seen that automakers are willing to invest directly in platforms and create customised experiences for their loyal customers in-house. Rather than approaching opportunities on a component-by-component basis, we offer a comprehensive digital chassis solution aligned with most automakers’ long-term strategy.

Ex: Finally, what message would you like to convey to consumers and industry professionals about the role of technology in the future of the automotive industry?

Uday: Technology is transforming the way vehicles are built, operated, and maintained. And the pace of this transformation is constantly increasing. Historically, a good car design ensured good mileage and easy maintenance. Today, it is about designing user experiences, and that’s where technology comes into play. In the years and decades ahead, cars could become a part of massive, wirelessly connected technology platforms. We need to look at technology’s use and development through that lens.

Ex: Your insights on the future of mobility in India?

Uday: The demand for generative AI models is experiencing rapid growth. Models like ChatGPT, Stable Diffusion, and DALL-E have already garnered millions of users within a short span of time. These groundbreaking technologies are poised to revolutionise automotive user experiences. AI-enabled cockpits, informed by vehicle-related data, can offer highly personalised interactions. In-vehicle digital assistants can enable drivers and passengers to stay connected on the go. Enterprise APIs further allow third-party service providers to integrate their offerings, extending customer relationships into the vehicle. In India, we will surely see vehicles with 5G-enabled digital cockpits driven by a high-performance edge platform in the not-too-distant future. With their intuitive experiences, interactive displays, high-definition maps, advanced augmented reality displays, intelligent AI capabilities and smart navigation systems, these vehicles are set to alter the landscape of the driving experience in India radically.

Power Talk ft. Raj Kumar Rishi, Vice President and Managing Director, Dell Technologies India

Exhibit: What are the key responsibilities that come with your role as Vice President and Managing Director? Also, tell us about your journey with Dell Technologies India.

Raj Kumar Rishi: Our mission at Dell Technologies is to use technology to drive human progress, and my primary responsibility is to ensure that we consistently deliver on this mission by keeping customers at the centre of every product decision we make. Furthermore, as the VP and MD for the Consumer and Small Business segment, my job is to drive growth in India, which remains a top priority market for the company. It has been an incredible journey for me with this great company. I am a big fan of Dell’s openness, trust and empowerment culture.

Ex: Dell Technologies is a global technology leader. What specific strategies have you implemented to drive growth and innovation in the Indian market? Can you share some examples of how Dell Technologies India has successfully delivered value to its customers?

Raj: At Dell Technologies, we are relentless in our pursuit of providing the best-in-class customer experience. We truly believe that customers are the ones who drive us to bring innovations to our product lines every year. This approach has enabled us to make meaningful product decisions, such as improvements in thermal infrastructure in our gaming portfolio, a variety of form factors in the Inspiron and XPS series, the addition of an 18-inch form factor in the Alienware line-up after 2015 and providing budget-friendly gaming laptops without sacrificing performance under the G-series. Furthermore, we have taken a strong omnichannel approach with our extensive network of 632 Dell Exclusive Stores (DES), 3 Large Format Retail outlets (LFR), and over 5000 Multi-Brand Outlets (MBO) across 400 cities in India. To facilitate easy access and convenience, we have enhanced our store locator experience and lead management system, and we are constantly ensuring that there is a regular cycle for refurbishing these stores to increase the engagement rate. However, we recognize that we are living in an era in which the line between online and offline has blurred. As a result, our products are also available online at dell.com and other e-tail partners. This customer-first approach, combined with exceptional customer service and engagement with partners, has helped Dell Technologies become the most trusted brand in India for the fourth consecutive year, according to TRA.

Ex: How do you see the technology landscape evolving in India, and what opportunities and challenges do you anticipate in the coming years?

Raj: The country’s appetite for technology and the rate at which the technology industry is growing presents a significant opportunity for us to strengthen our offerings further. In the context of PCs, consumers in India are becoming more aware of what they require. A gamer, for example, is aware that improved thermals and performance will lead to marathon gaming sessions, a student is aware that a larger display and camera will make online classes more fun and engaging, and a creator is aware that 2-in-1 form factors, better connectivity, and immersive displays will lead to higher productivity while on-the-go. All of this is made possible by continuous innovation supported by integrating emerging technologies. With the convergence of traditional hardware, new technologies and architectures, such as AI and 5G, PCs can now deliver a brilliant, customized, and tether-free PC experience—and as we continue to embrace the digital-first world, we’re excited about how these technologies will shape the future of the PC industry.

Ex: The Indian gaming market is expected to grow from $2.8 billion in 2022 to $5 billion in 2025, growing at a 28-30% CAGR. What are some of the trends contributing to the gaming industry’s growth? How is Dell Technologies betting on the sector?

Raj: The Indian gaming market constantly evolves through innovation, investment, and overall efforts. The industry is thriving, with an expanding pool of gamers who want to consider gaming as a serious career option rather than just for leisure or entertainment. What we’re also seeing is that the industry is growing holistically. Thousands of software engineers, content creators, data analysts, game designers, social media specialists, venue operators, accountants, lawyers, and others are needed to make gaming more fun and realistic. This has increased the role of technology in gaming devices, and as a result, there is an influx of devices in the market every year that offers incredible power and performance. Given these shifting dynamics, we are dedicated to meeting the needs of all types of gamers. For example, for consumers new to PC gaming or moving from mobile to PC, the Dell G Series portfolio is a great place to start. On the other hand, Alienware has been designing premium, high-performance desktops and laptops for professional gamers. We have launched a robust product line-up across both these portfolios this year. In addition, our first gaming store in India demonstrates our ongoing commitment to engaging with Indian gamers. It’s more than just a store; it’s a hub for gamers and enthusiasts to meet, interact, and play their favourite titles on Dell’s latest devices while also exploring the various accessories and peripherals on offer. In terms of design, we’ve incorporated creative elements and cutting-edge technologies to keep players engaged and provide a comprehensive experience. The “Battle Zone,” which is essentially a section for gamers to face off against their opponents and try out the entire available ecosystem of devices, is the store’s main attraction.

Ex: Dell Technologies is known for its commitment to sustainability. Could you share some initiatives Dell Technologies India undertook to promote environmental responsibility and sustainable practices?

Raj: At Dell Technologies, sustainability is at the core of everything we do. We’re inspired by the opportunity to improve things for our future generations. As per our 2030 ESG goal of advancing sustainability, for every product sold, we will reuse or recycle an equivalent product, 100% of our packaging and over 50% of our product portfolio will be made from recycled or renewable materials. In fact, our new Inspiron laptops are shipped in packaging that is made from 100% recycled and renewable materials and is 100% recyclable. Select Inspiron notebooks also use seamless logo technology in the lid, which helps reduce waste in the manufacturing process.

Ex: What advice would you give aspiring professionals wanting to build a successful career in the technology industry?

Raj: In today’s rapidly changing world, we are presented with a plethora of career options that were once viewed differently. Gaming has seen a significant shift in perception, with people today being dynamic, social, and successful, and proud to identify as gamers. Careers in video editing have also grown in popularity. As a result, today’s youth must take advantage of the various opportunities available. In an ever-changing job market, they must embrace technology and constantly upskill themselves.

Ex: Lastly, could you share any recent milestones, achievements, or upcoming projects that Dell Technologies India is excited about and that our readers should look forward to?

Raj: Being named India’s most trusted brand for the fourth time in a row by TRA is a significant milestone in our journey because it truly embodies our customer-first approach. Additionally, opening our first gaming store in India this year is a watershed moment as it allows us to foster innovation, interaction, and community building. We have also launched a number of marquee devices across product lines to meet the diverse needs of our customers. To summarize, it’s been an eventful year so far, and we will continue to leverage our technology expertise and listen to our customers to deliver meaningful products.

Raj Shamani | Creator Of The Month

Ex: You wear multiple hats as an entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and social media influencer. How do these different roles intersect in your life, and how do you balance them?
Raj: I think my job everywhere is same honestly, if you look closely my job is to be the Chief Support Officer, as an entrepreneur I support my team so that we can achieve our vision, as a speaker and as an influencer I support my audience/listeners by brining best knowledge from the top leaders of the world so that they can achieve their Indian Dream. So balancing gets easy if your why as an individual is aligned, and my why is to take India forward by creating more leaders.

Ex: What inspired you to become an entrepreneur, and what challenges did you face in starting your own business? How did you overcome them?
Raj: The best thing that happened to me was I saw my father losing his factory in fire and then he started from nothing to building a small business to provide a very comfortable life for his family and building his non profit for thousands of underprivileged kids, so I saw what power of entrepreneurship can do, and how it can change lives of people around you. So that inspired me to definitely be the entrepreneur and second was because I applied to work in 70 different consumer goods companies and none of them hired me so I was young and still wanted to work and out of lack of options I started my own business early 😂 The biggest challenge I faced was hiring good people, because when you are starting out you don’t have a brand, you don’t have a great track record and you don’t even have money. So convincing great people to join you becomes the biggest challenge. That’s why I ask everybody to build their personal brand because that makes things easier comparatively.

Ex: As a motivational speaker, what topics do you typically focus on, and what is your approach to inspiring and motivating others?
Raj: I believe this the once in a decades kind of opportunity for India, but India will only thrive if we build more world class brands and world class leaders from our country. and that’s why:
I talk about brands & leadership,
1. how to build your brand to achieve leadership in the market,
2. how to build your personal brand as a leader
3. how to create content to become a leader in the market so that you get a competitive advantage over others.

Ex: As one of the youngest Indians to represent India at the United Nations, can you tell us about your journey and how you became involved in international diplomacy at such a young age?
Raj: I didn’t know about international diplomacy at that age honestly, all I knew was united nations has goals to make humanity better and i wanted to contribute in that, so out of 13 goals i tried my luck into social entrepreneurship and then UN took me in for that and asked me to prepare projects and give speeches at UNs vienna Headquarters. and anybody can apply by going to united nations career page on their website. its just i got lucky to be in the selected few.

Ex: Social media has become a powerful platform for communication and influence. How have you leveraged social media to spread your message and connect with your audience? Any tips for aspiring social media influencers?
Raj: I really believe if you want to create an impact at large you need either access to capital or access to distribution. for a lot of people like me who come from no background, getting access to capital is very difficult. thats why i believe social media is the best place to start building your distribution for free. I believe gone are the days of Amecian Dream, it’s time to for ‘The Indian Dream’ and that’s what I want people to believe in and go for it. So I am trying to achieve my Indian dream by hustling every day and creating more leaders at work and I show that through my social media which ends up helping me in building distribution. The tip I have for young content creators is ‘

Ex: What has been the most rewarding experience of your career so far, either as an entrepreneur, motivational speaker, or UN representative? Can you share a memorable moment?
Raj: The most rewarding moment of my life till now has not been the professional one but a personal one that happened 2 years back where I gifted a credit card to my mom and told her to never look at shopping bill ever again and spend at whatever she wants to. First time in life this happened as since childhood I would always ask money from my mom and she would say don’t tell dad. this time it was me telling her ‘spend as much as you want, and don’t tell dad’ shh 🤫

Ex: Balancing personal and professional life can be challenging, especially with such a demanding schedule. How do you manage to find time for yourself and maintain a healthy work-life balance?
Raj: I am very bad at it, I don’t have a balanced life. I go with the notion that if you have really bug dreams then you need be obsessed, so I barely find time for balance in life. I need to learn better to maintain a balance life but I think my excuse is I am young and I can afford to be obsessed right now 😛 And with all due respect I am not asking anyone else to follow what I do, they should try to find what works for them. This way of life works for me till now 🙂 Maybe I will change in the future, maybe not. 😉

Ex: Can you share some of the key lessons you have learned throughout your entrepreneurial journey and how they have shaped your approach to business?
Raj: No.1 lesson I have learnt is that no one is above and no one is below, at the start of our careers we feel that others are bigger than us maybe a boss, maybe a unicorn startup founder, maybe someone famous. But reality is they are exactly like us just in different time of their journey but all people are same, no need to feel inferior infront of anyone.
Another lesson I have learnt is that: India is not a price sensitive market, everybody says in India people are price conscious but I don’t think so, I believe Indian consumer is value conscious not price conscious, if they get value for their money they are ready to pay for a premium product and premium brand. I don’t think Indians leave a good quality product just because of price.
One more lesson I learnt in Indian business is, people say India is a trust deficit country, people don’t trust new products easily or other people easily. I believe that is not true, in India infact almost everything works on trust, business works on trust(because lack of understanding of legal paperwork), customer buys on trust (because lack of education on products), a lot of peer to peer funding works on trust (because lack of proper credit/financing options), so when everything works on trust in our country. how can we talk about being a trust deficit country. It’s just once we lose trust it’s difficult to get it back, but I think overall people put in the trust forward and are accepting of new things. 🙂

Ex: Many young people look up to you as a role model. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs, speakers, and individuals who aspire to make a difference in the world?
Raj: A lot of young people in India are worried about their reputation when in reality they don’t have any, they have just gotten it from probably the family they come from, or the school they went to or the money they inherited. As an individual probably people don’t have much reputation but they are scared of losing reputation and that’s why they don’t take risk. so if you are willing to take risk and forget about where you come from and ready to build your reputation from scratch by exploring and experimenting new things then you will grow really really fast and will have an edge over other people. and the other advice I wanna give is no matter what you do just be consistent, if you are consistent for couple of years you will end up winning regardless of talent, competition, time, money etc.

Ex: What are your future goals and aspirations? Where do you see yourself in the next five to ten years?
Raj: Everytime I give an interview, I pray to god that please this question should not come haha because honestly I dont know. I never put any timelines, I have a dream and I want to achieve that dream, whether it will be 5 years, 10 years or 50 I don’t know. I am more of a journey person, I love the journey. My dream is to make a really global consumer brand out of India – that’s what I am trying to build through House of X and help others become leader by showing them my journey of failures and success as I try to build a global brand.

Ex: Is there anything else you would like to share with our audience or any upcoming projects or initiatives you are currently working on that we should know about?
Raj: In my new startup House of X, I am working on three brands from scratch those are very close to my heart, I am building a perfume brand with my favorite popstar, building a kitchen appliances brand with my favorite chef and building a beauty brand with my favorite beauty & fashion creator. Apart from that, like a good content creator I would say that: if you want to know more about my next moves, you need to Subscribe & follow me @rajshamani on your favorite social media platform hahaha

Exclusive Conversation with Jochen Zeitz, President & CEO – Harley-Davidson, Inc.

Did you know that Puma was once on the verge of bankruptcy, and one gentleman steered and helped make it profitable with sales of 4 billion USD? Leading to its stock price skyrocketing by 4000 %!  And that man is Jochen Zeitz, now the President, CEO and Chairman of Board of Harley-Davidson Inc. which is also powering the LiveWire, its flagship EV brand. Harley-Davidson is an iconic brand with a cult following and undoubtedly the most desirable motorcycle brand in the world by any measure. Ramesh Somani caught up with him exclusively on his first visit to India as the CEO of Harley-Davidson.

RS – Harley-Davidson has stuck to its roots ever since. How has that changed with the changing lifestyle and the changing landscape? How are things shaping up globally for you?

JZ – We’ve been around for 120 years. We’ve seen a lot of changing landscapes, and so there’s always the next generation that you need to get excited to ride motorcycles, which is why we’ve introduced the X440 in India to introduce the next generation of riders to the Harley life, before they graduate to bigger Harleys.

RS – So, Harley’s journey has had many strategic overhauls, right? From Rewire to Hardwire but has the brand finally found its game?

JZ – Over 120 years, you need different strategies to succeed. It cannot be just one strategy. And the Rewire was setting us up for Hardwire. It was in the 2020 pandemic where we had to close our factory, like everybody else. And I felt it was necessary to rewire the business. build a new foundation based on which we could then launch a new strategy, which was the Hardwire. So, the Rewire was the precursor of the Hardwire strategy, and it’s really focusing on our core segments and our core ridership, contemporary riders, and traditional riders, but also expanding into new categories. So, again, every era needs its own strategy, and I felt the Hardwire was the right strategy at the right time.

RS – Harley-Davidson is also a lifestyle company. And does your lifestyle vertical work better or, overall, the cult following? Does it really play up and complement each other?

JZ – I think it’s very important. We do a lot more than building machines. We stand for the pursuit of adventure and freedom for the soul. So it is a lifestyle, right? It’s not just riding a motorcycle, it’s riding a Harley-Davidson. And that in itself is a very different experience. And it’s a lifestyle that our riders express when they ride a Harley-Davidson.So building and nurturing that ecosystem of ridership and being part of a community is something very special that very few brands in the world can claim their own. A lot of other manufacturers have tried to imbibe that culture.

RS – Yeah, but Harley is Harley. I don’t think anybody comes close, which is great. I mean, you have such a powerful brand. It’s one of the most aspiring brands in the world!

JZ – And that gives us the opportunity not just to sell motorcycles but also to expand into apparel, parts, and accessories. We are the most customized motorcycle brand in the world. You express yourself; it’s almost like creating a piece of art. You express yourself with how you customize your bike, how you paint it, and what accessories you put on the bike. So that customization, again, is something that is truly unique for Harley-Davidson.

RS – On a very rough estimate, if you have to denote a ratio to your motorcycle sales with your lifestyle vertical, how would the math add up?

JZ – Our core business is always going to be motorcycles, but we also believe that the brand can reach out to fans and aficionados that associate with the lifestyle of motorcycle riding and might not ride yet because it’s such an aspiring brand. And that’s the opportunity to reach out to those customers with apparel, footwear and other products. So why shouldn’t we do that? Building that audience and broadening the audience of riders and non-riders alike is something that every brand needs to do, but the core of the business is always going to be motorcycles.

RS – Harley-Davidson has always been associated with the rumble of a V-Twin and today with X440 and the ongoing electric revolution, do you think this will dilute the brand in some way?

JZ – No. That’s why our engineers and our designers made very sure that the X440 looks, sounds and feels like a Harley-Davidson. So the design was developed by our designers in Milwaukee. We work very closely with the engineers to make sure that the vibration, the sound, and how the bike behaves comes very close to Harley. But, of course, it’s a different segment. It’s a 440; not a 1250 CC. There is a difference, but I think once you hear the bike, once you ride the bike, there’s a lot of Harley inside.

RS – Harley is associated with the sense of freedom, spending long hours on straight roads but with this ongoing electric revolution, do you think there’ll be a sense of anxiety more than the sense of freedom? Given the constraints of charging infrastructure and charging time?

JZ – We decided to launch a separate brand for that for many different reasons. One is that the charging infrastructure will take time. Fast charging will take time on a motorcycle. It’s not like a car where you have a lot of space to put a big battery pack that can be charged fast. While developing a touring bike with a significant range, the lack of technology proves to be a hurdle. But we wanted to be the leader as a company, which is why we launched Livewire as a separate brand that is leading the electrification of the sport and that’s separately listed at the New York Stock Exchange and then fast forward 10, 20, 30 years… certainly, there will one day also be an electric Harley. But the technology needs to advance a lot for us to achieve it in the core segments and make sure that the look, sound and feel of Harley-Davidson are retained.

RS – Harley-Davidson has always been the centre of pop culture, whether it’s the ‘Sons Of Anarchy’ or ‘Terminator’. With these small displacement and electric motorcycles, will we see that in the future? Like overall, in your scheme of things for the X440?

JZ – Well, it will be interesting to see who is going to cast our motorcycle in Bollywood movies with other influencers. I’m sure we will see a lot. We want to also get more female riders into the Harley-Davidson lifestyle, which can be achieved with the X440 because it’s the perfect motorcycle to start riding. But at the same time, it is so much more! For instance, I was belting the X440 at 125-130km/h on the racetrack today and that proved that this little bike does have some serious guts. And I’m sure it’s going to be an appealing proposition for a lot of riders, starters, beginners, but also advanced riders.

RS – So you never know, right? What might come around?

JZ – No. And I think we’ve landed a really good product and that we’ll find a lot of fans. And again, just like I started on 500 when I was young and eventually went into the big bikes, I think this is a great stepping stone. But in itself, it is an already very fulfilling product which is going to be a great companion for your adventures.

RS – Harley and technology have never been the best of friends. But with the ongoing technological revolution, do you think things are changing?
JZ – Well, I’d say we are innovating quite a lot. Revolution Max, for instance, is a very innovative engine with our variable valve technology. I think in safety aspects, we are also investing a lot. And if you look at the new CVO that we just launched, there is just pure technology in that bike from the software from our new engine. It has all the technology you really want in a motorcycle. You should always start bringing new innovations to your flagship products, and from there on, the infused technology can trickle further down.

RS – Enough of all these questions, but tell me, which has been your favorite Harley-Davidson?

JZ – I don’t have a favourite, and picking just one is near impossible. I have a lot of Harleys in my garage and it feels exactly like having multiple kids.

RS – Which was the first Harley-Davidson you ever bought or rode?

JZ – It was a Low Rider, which I still have, and then it was a V Rod, and then it was all kinds of different ones!

RS – Do you see some shifts happening globally in riding? Anything that you want to shed some light on?

JZ – Well, I think we want to get more and more people to ride. If you are not a rider, you don’t know what you’re missing. And I think we’ve just launched our membership and loyalty program in the United States. Getting people early on to associate with the brand, whether you’re a rider or not a rider is what we are aiming for. And really, building that community is very important to us. Because once you have a community, especially for a bike that you take out for touring, you want to be with friends; you want to be with your family. And getting more and more people to ride is really important.

RS – Was it difficult to graduate from Puma, handling that brand to success and then suddenly getting into a cult brand which is completely offbeat? Was it very difficult to adjust?

JZ – Well, every brand is special. I like building brands and influencing brands. And I had a great run at Puma for almost 20 years. That was an extraordinary experience. And then, I was focusing more on my philanthropic learning from their philanthropic endeavors. I joined the board of Harley-Davidson and then in 2020, I was asked to be the CEO. I said well, you don’t say no to Harley-Davidson, right?


In Conversation With Sajjan Kumar, MD, Nikon India

Nikon recently introduced its latest mirrorless camera the Z8 in India which boasts a number of impressive features and capabilities. The camera sports a powerful 45.7-MP full-frame sensor and an advanced EXPEED 7 image processor which guarantees exceptional image quality in a wide range of shooting conditions. Nikon Z8 is specifically crafted to meet the needs of professionals seeking superior image quality.

During the launch of the latest Nikon Z8, we had a quick conversation with Nikon India MD, Sajjan Kumar. Our conversation was based around the launch of the Z8 but we also discussed the Indian imaging system market and where Nikon stands out. Check out the conversation below –

In conversation with Nikon India MD, Sajjan Kumar

ex: Firstly congratulations on the launch of the Nikon Z8, It truly looks like a powerhouse of a camera. It has a number of features which it so skillfully boasts so what do you think is the Z8’s best feature? 

We are equally excited to bring Z8 to our customers. We call it a true hybrid camera in a way that it is good for video and stills at the same time. While it is difficult for me to pinpoint a specific feature, it’s got 12-bit RAW video shooting with 4K 60FP or 120FP which is one feature I’d pick. 

ex: You’re nearing 15 years in Nikon joining in as a Vice President and five years as the Managing Director of Nikon India. How do you think the camera market has evolved over the years in India? 

You’re absolutely correct in your finding! For the last one and a half decades, I’ve been associated with Nikon and this experience has been enriching for me. We’ve seen the industry change from the compact era which used to be our main product and was used majorly by customers and we’ve seen the DSLR era to now the DSLR and mirrorless era. Over the years, consumers have shifted from still photography to videography. The current generation is more interested in the video front which pushes us to change our camera specifications to be more video-centric. Our latest offering Z8 also stands on the same principle. 

ex: As a pioneer in the photography industry, you understand the technological curve of imaging systems better than most of us. What is your vision about the future of the Indian imaging market? 

I am happy, excited and honoured about the fact that the Z8 promotional AV which is released worldwide features a big chunk of content shot by Indian creators. Be it weddings, fashion or wildlife photography/videography, there is a lot of content shot by Indian creators and we cannot ignore today where our country stands. 

ex: We live in the social media era, meaning people want to share the content they shoot immediately on the internet. Do you think we will have a ‘smart camera system’ in the future to allow us to edit and post images/videos from the camera itself? 

It is difficult to comment on what type of specifications can be added to a camera in the future.  It is definitely getting more connected as a device. Currently, the file size of videos and photos is large which complicates things. We need to see what is hidden in the future. On the other end, the built-in AI  algorithm is making the product smarter and smarter. For now, it is possible for creators to shoot content easily having to focus only on shot composition as opposed to the camera settings. 

ex: Nowadays we see many major camera companies tie up and collaborate with smartphone makers to enhance their photo-capturing capabilities. Do you think Nikon will ever have such collaborations or is something already on the horizon?

Certainly, as a brand which is over a hundred years old and still meaningful to the consumers and to the market, it is very difficult. Even for me having spent 15 years with Nikon, we’ve seen many ups and downs as an organization which prompts us to keep evolving. Optics is our core strength and we always offer our customers what they’re looking for, be it specifications or the touch & feel of the product. We will continue to meet customer expectations with our offerings. 

ex: Gen-Z is obsessed with documenting their lives and sharing it on social media but the majority of them cannot really afford to drop in a huge amount for the same. Do you envision Nikon creating an imaging system for younger kids at a considerably cheaper rate in the future? 

If we’re talking about Gen-Z then we already have the Z series! The Z series not just has high-end cameras like the Z8 but we also have the Z30 which starts at just Rs 30K. That camera is specifically designed for content creators with ease of shooting and singlehanded usage. We keep adding new lenses in that category too specifically for young content creators to get the best of what they’re shooting. We think for everyone and not just professionals. 

ex: India is pacing fast towards entering the top 3 performers for Nikon globally. The healthcare expansion of Nikon is also moving at a rapid pace. With double-digit growth projected in FY24, what do you think is making Nikon stand out from the competition? 

You’ve rightly picked that we, Nikon India is currently at No. 5 globally for the Nikon group, and we soon will be touching No. 3. The credit goes directly to our customers and also our country which provides ample opportunities for us to shoot. Be it our culture, festivities, or heritage, all of it deserves to be captured on the camera. This sets us apart from the rest of the world. Given the population of our country and the kind of opportunities we provide, it is a small number still and we’re optimistic about the future!

“Digital Payments Is The Future” Says Paytm CPO Shreyas Srinivasan Addressing UPI Lite

UPI payments have become a conventionally important part of our banking experience. UPI has enabled the country’s people to carry out transactions easily. However, the UPI payment system does come without its cons. One of which is a cluttered bank passbook containing even the littlest transactions like buying a bottle of water or even a piece of chewing gum. Another restriction is the cap on the number of transactions one user can make in a day. To solve the issues related to small UPI transactions, the Reserve Bank of India launched UPI Lite to facilitate faster and easier transactions in September 2022.

Homegrown Paytm Payments Bank was the first digital payments platform to offer UPI Lite with the service crossing 2 million users with over half a million daily transactions recorded in a short amount of time. There are no second thoughts about UPI Lite being a runaway hit, so, what exactly is it? I was lucky enough to get a briefing about UPI Lite from Paytm’s Chief Product officer followed by an interaction where we discussed the challenges and future of digital payments in India. Firstly, here’s everything you need to know about UPI Lite –

What is UPI Lite?

UPI Lite is a digital account designed to make low-value transactions easier and quicker. It comes with a maximum balance limit of 2000. The maximum balance limit can be added to the account twice daily enabling transactions up to 4000 in a day. The maximum value allowed per transaction is Rs 200. It can be regarded as a compressed version of UPI that is designed for low-value transactions from Re 1 to Rs 200.

UPI lite comes with its own sets of advantages above the standard UPI system. Transactions made using UPI Lite do not clutter users’ bank passbooks. The statement only comprises of top-up transactions done during UPI Lite decluttering the passbook. Another main advantage is having no cap on the number of transactions made. Whereas, users are also not required to enter their 4 or 6-digit pins using UPI Lite. During my briefing session, Paytm CPO Shreyas Srinivasan emphasised on banking industry evolving to become a technological industry and UPI Lite seems to lessen the gap between the two. Here’s Exhibit’s exclusive conversation with Paytm CPO Shreyas Srinivasan –

EX: Firstly, congratulations on the success of UPI Lite. Being a spearhead in digital payment technology in India, what challenges does Paytm face on a daily basis?

Shreyas: I think on a daily basis, our challenges are customer challenges. We work hard to make sure our customers don’t face any challenges but since we have millions and millions of people using our payment systems we have issues like failed transactions, soundbox not playing when a transaction is made and similar are some of the issues we grapple with every day. New users who are new to mobile and digital payments not knowing how to activate UPI is also one of the challenges we work on every day.

EX: What is your goal with the UPI Lite service in a country that is as financially diverse as India?

Shreyas: I think more than UPI Lite, our overall motivation is to make sure 100% success rates on all our transactions. I think everything we do is a movement in that direction, UPI Lite increases success rate along with all the work we’ve put in making Paytm banks the first digitally native bank which supports millions of transactions is towards that goal. Every time you want to pay, it should be a successful transaction.

EX: What do you think is the future of digital payments in India?

Shreyas: I think it is the future! I think digital payment is the future, we’ve seen digital payments bring millions of people into the mainstream economy. Users who did not previously have a banking profile or banking history were previously forgotten on the edge of the mainstream economy. We’ve seen millions of them come to the forefront because of digital payments. Tools we’ve built like the soundboxes have now enabled small merchants to become savvy and accept digital payments. Be it a small merchant selling coconut by the street or any merchant selling things on the highway, all of them are now accepting digital payments. Paytm’s mission and vision are to bring 500 million users into the mainstream economy and we’re enabling them with the form of digital payments.

EX: We think digital payments are also bringing the country together…

Shreyas: YES! Trust improves trade and trade improves GDP. In fact, a lot of progress of a country is built on trust and this is the first time that users can see the person they’re paying along with their banks while making a digital payment. I think it really is building a fabric of trust when it comes to payments in the country which definitely brings the country together and makes our growth possible at a faster rate.

Auto news from CES 2023

Every year, the world gathers for the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), which is kind of like the Auto Expo for electronics and technology. Although we typically get a sneak peek at upcoming technology, several automakers frequently use CES to reveal their newest technology, concepts, and even new models. The top auto news stories from CES 2023 are listed here. This year’s CES is no exception when it comes to some crazy mind boggling concepts and other automotive news.

Sony Afeela

The Japanese technology behemoth Sony will produce EVs, although this is not really surprising given that Sony has already shown off two prototypes at prior CES conferences. The Afeela, however, is a brand-new sedan that was created in collaboration with Honda this time. Although the Afeela’s technical specifications are all secret, we do know that deliveries will start in 2026 and that the sedan will come equipped with cutting-edge technology, including AI assistance and autonomous capabilities.

Volkswagen ID.7

The ID.7, Volkswagen’s first electric sedan, has been presented with its camouflage still on. It will join the brand’s wide range of electric vehicles in 2023. The vehicle will compete against Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 and Tesla Model 3 with a potential range of about 700 kilometres. The ID.7 will have the longest range of any Volkswagen EV when it is introduced. In addition to these technologies, the sedan has augmented reality heads-up and a 15-inch touchscreen with all the necessary functionality.

BMW i Vision Dee

One of the most daring proposals from the German company has been introduced by BMW. According to BMW, the I Vision Dee (Digital Emotional Experience) is a car that can converse with its owners and even convey feelings. It also has body panels that can instantly change colours, enormous kidney grilles with built-in displays, and a windscreen that serves as a sizable display. The new concept car is packed with features, and it may represent the direction the company will take in terms of technology and design.

Volvo EX90

At CES 2023, Volvo unveiled the EX90 flagship electric SUV and said that deliveries will start in early 2024. It will be available with a 111kWh battery pack that has a 600 km maximum range and 517 PS maximum output (WLTP). It has a 14.5-inch touchscreen inside that supports 5G and has Google OS preinstalled. The EX90 receives a variety of safety features like eight cameras, a radar system, and LiDAR in typical Volvo flair and as the company’s flagship EV.

Nvidia GeForce Now Cloud Gaming For Cars

We’re not sure how to react to the news that cars will soon be able to use Nvidia’s GeForce Now cloud gaming services. To offer a complete gaming experience to cars, the brand is collaborating with automakers including Hyundai, BYD, and Polestar. Technical details are being kept under wraps, but Nvidia claims that while waiting inside the car or while the car is charging, passengers may use a controller to play more than 1000 games, including AAA titles. In essence, this implies that you can play The Witcher 3 while your car is charging.

Dodge Ram 1500 Revolution BEV Concept

Dodge unveiled its Ram 1500 Revolution Battery-electric Vehicle (BEV) Concept at CES 2023, which offers a view into the future and highlights how the sector’s top truck brand can once more transform the pickup truck business. Innovative features that will be found in future Ram trucks, and in particular on Ram’s electrification journey, are on full display in the cutting-edge Ram 1500 Revolution BEV Concept.

In order to better serve its customers, Ram will distinguish itself by delivering a variety of fully electric alternatives, including the Ram 1500 BEV in 2024, which will redefine the market. In the upcoming years, the complete Ram line-up will provide electrified solutions with ground-breaking, cutting-edge technology.

 

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