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By Ritwika Gupta
Responsible for the overall sports business, Ten Sports CEO Rajesh Sethi admits to being a complete food junkie. Sharing some of his memorable travel experiences, he gives us a glimpse into how he juggles multiple roles in life. Taking a brief breather between his hectic work and travel schedule, Sethi speaks to Indiantelevision.com?s RITWIKA GUPTA about his career, favourite films, travel essentials and more.
Tell us about your journey as a professional in the industry.
I?ve had a thoroughly enjoyable journey as a professional in this industry. Coming from the retail finance and insurance background, my ideologies were different. I have been successful in trying to implement learnings from my past jobs and in turn giving some structure to this industry. Some of the major challenges I?ve faced have been using my entrepreneurial approach to introduce a processed work flow. At the same time, my incentives are that I have been able to watch few of the best sporting events in the world right from WWE to UEFA Champions League.
What kind of developments have you seen over the past decade or so?
The major change over the last decade has definitely been the emergence of the digital age. We can clearly see consumers? acceptance on this and have seen them transitioning from a traditional brick and mortar era to the click era.
Which part of your job do you enjoy the most?
I enjoy the opportunity of working with varied people from diverse backgrounds. It is a hyper competitive environment entwined with some complex regulations in place. It has been truly challenging and very enjoyable.
How do you manage to balance your role as a CEO and a family person?
If you enjoy what you are doing, it is very easy to align personal and professional priorities. I have had no difficulties balancing my personal and professional life.
How do you relax?
I have diverse interests. I spend considerable time reading and watching documentaries on different subjects. I also love spending time with my kids and my dog. I am a voracious reader and I read varied genres. Currently, I am reading the book World Order by Henry Kissinger. It is about history, strategy and statecraft.
Which is that one book you have read over and over again?
The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand is one book that I have read multiple times.
Do you like watching films? Which are your favourite movies?
I am not too much of a movie buff and seldom go out for movies. I do watch a lot of documentaries though. My favourite movies include ? The Bucket List, Shawshank Redemption, 7 Years in Tibet, Gladiator and 3 Idiots.
What is your idea of a perfect weekend getaway?
Short treks to nearby hills. Living in Delhi, there are opportunities for wonderful drives and short treks in the vicinity. I enjoy my serendipitous moments in the lap of nature along with my family.
Which is your favourite holiday destination?
Anywhere in the Himalayas!
What are the 5 most essential items you always carry on a trip abroad?
1. iPod
2. Kindle
3. Running gear
4. A collection of ties and cufflinks
5. An Evening Jacket
Do you have a memorable travel experience?
My memorable travel experience was my journey to the Chamonix Valley in south-eastern France, conquering the river of ice. I was meeting my college mates after a long time and the adventures we experienced while holidaying in Chamonix were inexplicable and very special.
Are you fond of latest gadgets?
Though I may sound traditional, my favorite tech gadget currently is my Mac Air.
What is your favourite cuisine?
While I love my paranthas, I equally relish South Indian food. My favorite restaurant would be any authentic South Indian joint.
How important are awards, appreciation and recognition to you?
These are fundamental human needs. All of us respond to appreciation expressed through recognition because it endorses that you are being valued.
Ritwika Gupta
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