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Time Lapse a Conversation with Mr. Debraj Sengupta

I have been in the luxury watch business for over 20 years, and I can tell you that it is not easy. In the early days, it was especially challenging. The sellers did not understand the nuances of the business.

The CEO Page Team (TCP team): From Hospitality “Unlimited Power” by Anthony Robbins, which is a terrific 01 to Luxury Goods. How’s the journey been so far? book about personal development.

Mr. Debraj Sengupta: Hospitality was not my choice, I did it as my parents wanted me to do so. While working in the hotel industry it became clear that my passion was elsewhere. I did not know where at the time, but it was certainly not hospitality. By a stroke of luck, I was hired by Titan and watches interested me immensely. While at Titan, I learned that the Swatch Group was entering India. The Swiss watch industry fascinated me so much that I wished to be a part of it. Here I am now working for various Swiss Brands for over two decades.

TCP team: How do you keep up with today’s fast-paced life?

Mr. Sengupta: I believe that if you love something and are passionate about it, the pace of life does not bother you. When you are truly engaged in what you are doing, time seems to fly by. For me, the key to keeping up with today’s fast-paced life is to focus on the quality of my work, not the quantity. I always try to deliver the best possible work, even if it means working a little bit longer.

I am not a highly organized person, but I have found that starting my day off right helps me stay on track. I usually start with a bottle of water, followed by some exercise. Then, I have tea with my wife and read for an hour. I am currently reading

The true appeal of the Meghalaya root bridges lies not only in their structural phenomenon but also in the experience of crossing them. As I gingerly stepped onto the ground, I could feel the living roots beneath my bases, a sensation both strange and stirring. With each step, I marveled at the adaptability and strength of these natural prodigies. The sounds of rushing water and chittering catcalls enveloped me, creating a symphony that harmonized with the gentle sway of the ground. It was as if time stood still, allowing me to completely immerse myself in the The beauty the moment.

I find that taking some time for myself in the morning helps me to clear my head and focus on the day ahead. It also gives me a chance to connect with my wife and start the day off on a positive note.

TCP team: How difficult is it to market and sell luxury goods in India?

Mr. Sengupta: I have been in the luxury watch business for over 20 years, and I can tell you that it is not easy. In the early days, it was especially challenging. The sellers did not understand the nuances of the business, and we had to educate them on everything- from how to display high-end products to how to present them to clients. We even had to teach them things like wearing gloves and using trays. It took time and effort to develop this mindset among the resellers, but eventually we were able to create a network of highly trained and knowledgeable sellers.

Another challenge we faced was that brands were initially reluctant to open exclusive brand boutiques in India. They were more comfortable with the multi-brand watch sellers, which were very few. So, we had to approach jewellers to sell Swiss brands. This was a new concept for them, and it took months to convince them to try it. Eventually, however, we were able to open stores like Pallazio, Javeri, and Popley’s, who sell luxury watches exclusively.

It was a difficult start, but also an exciting one. We were pioneers in the Indian luxury watch market and were able to help shape the way that luxury watches are sold in India today. I am proud of what we have accomplished, and excited to see what the future holds for the Indian luxury watch market.

TCP team: How do you motivate yourself when the going gets tough, not only in your professional life but also in your personal life?

Mr. Sengupta: I believe that nothing can go wrong for me. I have a positive attitude and always believe that I can achieve my goals. I also manifest what I want, which means that I visualize myself achieving my goals and I believe that it will happen. I write my goals down and I keep viewing them, which helps me to stay motivated.

I also find that it is helpful to have a sense of humour. When things get tough, I try to look at the funny side of things. This helps me to stay positive and keep going.

Here are some other ways that I self-motivate myself:

  • Set small goals. When I am feeling overwhelmed, I break my goals down into smaller, more manageable steps. This makes them seem less daunting and more achievable.
  • Reward myself. When I reach a goal, I reward myself with something that I enjoy. This helps me to stay motivated and to keep working towards my goals.
  • Surround myself with positive people. The people I spend time with have a significant impact on my mood and my motivation. I try to surround myself with positive people who believe in me and support me.

Motivating yourself when the going gets tough can be challenging, but it is definitely possible. By following these tips, you can stay positive and keep moving forward.

Here is a funny story about how I stay motivated:

I was once working on a project that was really challenging. I was feeling stressed and overwhelmed and was about to give up. But then I remembered something my grandmother used to say: “If you can’t laugh at yourself, you’re taking yourself too seriously.”

So, I took a deep breath and I started to laugh at myself. I imagined myself as a cartoon character, struggling to complete this impossible task. And as I laughed, I started to feel better. I realized that the project was not as big a deal as I was making it out to be.

I finished the project, and it was not perfect, but it was good. And I learned a valuable lesson-sometimes the best way to motivate yourself is to just laugh at yourself.

TCP team: What is your opinion on new age marketing tools like digital marketing?

Mr. Sengupta: It is just fascinating, the impact that digital marketing can have on businesses, and I believe that it is a excellent tool that can be used to reach a wider audience, target specific demographics, and measure results.

I am excited to see how digital marketing continues to evolve in the years to come. Overall, I believe that new age marketing tools like digital marketing are incredibly powerful and have the potential to revolutionize the way businesses market themselves.

TCP team: What is one thing that you miss about the hospitality industry and tell us one thing you dislike about the luxury domain?

Mr. Sengupta: I miss meeting people, especially those who are well-travelled and well-read. They have fascinating stories to share, and I miss those interactions.I also miss the sense of community that comes with working in the hospitality industry. There is a shared passion for creating memorable experiences for guests, and it is a great feeling to be a part of that.

One thing I dislike about the luxury domain is the slow pace of adoption of sustainability. I believe that the industry needs to be more responsible for its supply chain, and I would like to see more brands making their products in India. There is a lot of potential for collaboration between luxury brands and Indian artisans, like we saw recently with Dior, and I would like to see more of that happening.

Overall, I enjoy working in the luxury domain. From the hospitality industry, I have learned to create memorable experiences, as we did for guests.

TCP team: How do you see the future of Luxury Brands in India and what is your vision to take Victorinox forward?

Mr. Sengupta: I believe that the future of luxury brands in India is bright. The country is home to a growing middle class with a strong appetite for luxury goods. I also believe that the Indian luxury market is still in its initial stages of development, which means that there is a lot of potential for growth.

My vision for Victorinox in India is for it to be the leading premium lifestyle brand you carry with you every day. I believe that Victorinox products are perfect for the Indian market because they are functional, durable, and stylish. I also believe that Victorinox has a strong brand heritage that resonates with Indian consumers. We have a rapid expansion plan for Victorinox in India.

Victorinox is increasing its footprint in the country following the successful opening of its flagship store in Mumbai’s Palladium Shopping Mall, in May 2022. We currently have 14 stores that house Victorinox shop-in- shops presently with 3 or more product categories, and 5 stores with a single product category. We plan to further strengthen our India presence with 10 more stores in the multi-product and 5 more in the single-product category by the end of the year. For the watch category, we have a strong presence with 150 doors across India currently.

In order to achieve my vision, I plan to focus on the following areas:

  • Strengthening our distribution network. I believe that we need to have a strong presence in key cities across India in order to reach our target audience.
  • Launching new products that are tailored to the Indian market. I believe that we need to develop products that meet the specific needs of Indian consumers.
  • Building brand awareness through marketing and advertising. I believe that we need to raise awareness of the Victorinox brand in India in order to attract new customers.

I am confident that by focusing on these areas, we can achieve my vision for Victorinox in India. I believe that Victorinox has the potential to become one of the leading premium lifestyle brands in India, and I am excited to be a part of that journey.

Here are some other factors that I believe will contribute to the growth of the luxury market in India:

  • The rise of the Indian middle class- The Indian middle class is growing rapidly, and this is driving demand for luxury goods.
  • The growing popularity of e-commerce- E-commerce is becoming increasingly popular in India, and this is making it easier for luxury brands to reach a wider audience.
  • The increasing awareness of international brands- Indian consumers are becoming more aware of international brands, and this is driving demand for luxury goods.

I believe that these factors will contribute to the growth of the luxury and premium market in India, and I am excited to see how the market evolves in the years to come.

TCP team: You also serve as guest lecturer at several premium institutes. Tell us more about this.

Mr. Sengupta: I owe immense gratitude to Mr. Kaleem Khan, a distinguished faculty member at Pearl Academy in Mumbai, for transforming me into a teacher. It was through his invitation to share my personal journey with watches that I realized my ability to engage in meaningful discussions within an intimate setting. Although accustomed to such dialogues, the mere thought of delivering a monologue on stage, with a hundred pairs of eyes fixed upon me, induced perspiration.

However, thanks to Kaleem’s persuasive nature and words of encouragement, I mustered the courage to step onto the stage. That very day, I discovered an additional passion within me—the desire to become an educator and share my knowledge. Since then, it has been an enthralling journey, during which I have had the privilege of interacting with students from esteemed institutions like Welingkars and IIM.

TCP team: What is the common thread you find between the hospitality and luxury industries?

Mr. Sengupta: The common thread that binds the hospitality and luxury industries is the relentless pursuit of exceptional experiences. Both sectors place a strong emphasis on delivering impeccable service, attention to detail, and personalized care to their clientele. Whether it is a five-star hotel or a luxury brand, the overarching goal is to create a memorable and indulgent environment for customers. Both industries understand the importance of anticipating and exceeding expectations, catering to individual preferences, and providing a sense of exclusivity. Moreover, they share a commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and the art of creating moments that leave a lasting impression on guests or customers, elevating their overall experience.

TCP team: Finally, any word of advice for budding entrepreneurs?

Mr. Sengupta: Belief and Passion are good starters but organizing, delegating and learning on the way, will help you survive. We have a huge number of startups that fail, and I believe that though we do not have a dearth of ideas, successfully implementing and keeping them alive for long is a big challenge.

Into Nature's Architecture, Exploring Meghalaya's Root Bridges.

As I embarked on my trip through the alluring hills of Meghalaya, I discovered a retired gem that left me in admiration of natures architectural prowess. Nestled amidst the lush green timbers and misty dens of this northeastern state, the Meghalaya root bridges stand as living testaments to the harmonious relationship between man and nature.

These remarkable structures, handcrafted by generations of Khasi tribespeople, haven't only resisted the test of time but have also become symbols of Meghalaya’s unexampled beauty. One can not completely comprehend the nobility of Meghalaya’s root bridges without understanding the witching process behind their reation.

These living bridges are formed by the roots of the Ficus tree, generally known as the rubber tree. The Khasi people, known for their deep connection with nature, have ingeniously trained the roots of these trees to grow in a predetermined direction, guiding them across gutters and aqueducts. This intricate fashion, passed down through generations, can take up to 15 times to complete, performing in bridges that can support the weight of dozens of people.

As I made my way through the thick timbers, my heart filled with expectation as I caught my first regard of a root ground. The sight was simply stirring. The ground, with its intricate network of roots, sounded like an organic extension of the girding terrain, as if nature herself had decided to knit the geography together. The emerald-green leafage gave a graphic background, enhancing the ground’s ethereal beauty. I stood in admiration, unfit to tear my aspect down from this remarkable creation.

The true appeal of the Meghalaya root bridges lies not only in their structural phenomenon but also in the experience of crossing them. As I gingerly stepped onto the ground, I could feel the living roots beneath my bases, a sensation both strange and stirring. With each step, I marveled at the adaptability and strength of these natural prodigies. The sounds of rushing water and chittering catcalls enveloped me, creating a symphony that harmonized with the gentle sway of the ground. It was as if time stood still, allowing me to completely immerse myself in the The beauty the moment.

My Entrepreneurial Journey from Corporate Professional to CEO

By Riena Shettyy, Founder, Divaaglam

 "All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them," this quote by Walt Disney resonates with my journey, transitioning from a secure corporate role to spearheading Divaaglam, a burgeoning beauty startup. Navigating the competitive landscape of the beauty and personal care industry proved to be an exhilarating yet challenging endeavour. However, fueled by my dream, I embraced the journey with unwavering determination.

After spending 20 years as HR Head of a global technology company, I decided it was time to take the plunge and follow my dream of creating an online beauty platform that gives unparalleled service to its customers. I was always fascinated with the beauty and wellness sector. To add to that, my husband Sudhir has been associated with the beauty business for over two decades. It seemed like just the right thing to do.

In the year 2020, we founded Divaaglam Private Limited combining my corporate experience in management, operations and technology and Sudhir’s experience in the beauty industry. This was 2020, when COVID-19 made the whole world realize that e-commerce is such an important part of our lives. We did extensive market research, studied the competition, and identified the product mix, and finally in the year 2023 we launched our portal Divaaglam.

The decision to transition from the corporate world to entrepreneurship was a daunting one, marked by challenges that tested my resilience and determination. This journey, though demanding, has been a source of invaluable learning. The experience has underscored the importance of adaptability, strategic foresight, and effective decision-making in the dynamic entrepreneurial landscape.

During my entrepreneurial journey so far I have learned that risk-taking along with prudent decision-making is extremely important in the formative stages of any business. One needs to balance this tightrope while manoeuvring through the day-to-day challenges of running a business.

Reflecting on this personal and professional metamorphosis, I've come to appreciate the transformative power of embracing change and stepping out of one's comfort zone. The journey has instilled in me a deep understanding of the need for continuous learning, resilience in the face of setbacks, and the ability to pivot when necessary.

To my fellow women entrepreneurs, I would say, embrace your aspirations with unwavering determination and be unafraid to challenge the status quo. Cultivate a network of support, surround yourself with mentors, and never underestimate the power of collaboration. In the face of adversity, let resilience be your guiding force, and remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Success in entrepreneurship is not merely about the destination but the journey itself – a journey that is uniquely yours to shape and lead.

The journey has reinforced the notion that dreams, when pursued with courage and tenacity, can materialize into reality. The convergence of corporate expertise and industry-specific knowledge, coupled with a keen awareness of market dynamics, has been instrumental in laying the foundation for Divaaglam's success. The beauty and wellness industry, while competitive, has proven to be a canvas for innovation and growth, and I am eager to continue leading Divaaglam towards new horizons.

Red Bull Basement launched in Odisha at FED KIIT`s Omega 4.0

Today, on 25th August, Red Bull Basement proudly hosted an electrifying event in collaboration with FED, sparking inspiration and deep engagement around innovation and startups. The event began with a powerful address from Vishal JC Sir and Mirtunjay Sir, setting the stage for a day filled with groundbreaking ideas and insightful learning. In the FEDpreneur Show, thought leaders Akashdeep Dan, Atul Khola, and Niket Raj Dwivedi delivered invaluable lessons on entrepreneurship, innovation, and the fast-evolving startup ecosystem. Red Bull Basement also took center stage with an exciting segment where we introduced our platform and shared how it empowers students to transform their boldest ideas into reality, accelerating their journey from concept to creation. The event was a vibrant mix of knowledge-sharing, networking, and ideation, embodying the spirit of Red Bull Basement’s mission to fuel the next generation of changemakers. We are excited to see how these dynamic ideas will shape the future and look forward to continued collaboration and innovation. 

What is Red Bull Basement?

Red Bull Basement is more than just a platform—it's a global gateway for students with innovative ideas to drive positive change through technology. Open to entrepreneurs, creators, and visionaries from universities across the globe, Red Bull Basement offers the tools, mentorship, and a global stage which are necessary to accelerate and elevate your ideas. This initiative empowers the next generation to make a meaningful impact in the world of start-ups and innovation.

The core aim of Red Bull Basement is to foster innovation and help young minds bring their groundbreaking ideas to life, ultimately contributing to a brighter, more creative future.

 Why Red Bull Basement?

Red Bull Basement is a call to action for entrepreneurs, inviting them to get inspired and work towards realizing their goals, all while shaping the future for the better. With access to cutting-edge AI tools, expert mentorship, and a global network, this platform creates an environment where innovation thrives.

How Does It Work?

The application process is simple and invigorating. Whether you’re a lone wolf or working in a team of two, you can submit your best ideas online. If you find yourself needing a spark of creativity, Red Bull Basement's AI tool can help generate fresh ideas to keep you moving forward. Plus, there’s no cap on creativity—submit as many ideas as you like! Red Bull Basement believes that great ideas should never be limited.

Leveraging Cricketing Lessons for Entrepreneurial Success

Discover how Sauvik Banerjee, a former cricketer transitioned from the pitch to the boardroom, leveraging his sports discipline and passion for innovation to lead a successful entrepreneurial venture.

1. From Cricketer to Entrepreneur, quite a drastic change! Talk us through this shift in your life.

Ah, the transition from the cricket pitch to the entrepreneurial realm! It's a tale that intertwines passion, discipline, and a thirst for innovation. Cricket, for me, was never just a game; it was a masterclass in discipline, teamwork, and unwavering focus. But as the sun sets on every inning, I realized that the innings of a sports career, too, had its boundaries. My innate curiosity for technology and its transformative power to address real-world challenges beckoned me. The world of entrepreneurship shimmered with opportunities, waiting to be seized. It was this allure that nudged me to pivot, to harness the skills cricket had honed in me, and to channel that same fervor into crafting innovative and lasting solutions. The journey, though distinct, carries the essence of the cricket field – the zeal, the strategy, and the drive to make a mark.

 

2. How did the skills and lessons you learned from your cricketing career contribute to your success as an entrepreneur?

The cricket field, much like the entrepreneurial world, is a stage of relentless challenges and ever-evolving dynamics. Every ball bowled and every shot played taught me lessons that transcended beyond the boundaries of the field. The grit and perseverance I honed while facing adversities in cricket became my guiding stars in the business arena. Adapting to the unpredictable bounce of the ball or the twist in a match situation instilled in me a resilience and agility that I now apply when navigating the ever-shifting sands of entrepreneurship. But perhaps the most profound lesson cricket imparted was the magic of teamwork. Understanding each player's strengths, communicating effectively, and leading from the front are virtues I imbibed on the pitch and now infuse into my entrepreneurial journey. In essence, cricket didn't just prepare me for the game; it prepared me for life and the world of business.

 

3. Can you provide an overview of Rezolve Limited and the services it offers?

Rezolve Limited is more than just a technology entity; we're visionaries dedicated to transforming the digital landscape. Our core ethos revolves around creating immersive and interactive digital experiences that resonate with today's dynamic user base.

Central to our offerings is the "Brain" suite of solutions. "Brain Commerce" is our flagship AI-driven platform, designed to supercharge retail experiences by offering enriched content and a seamless shopping journey. It's not just about transactions; it's about creating holistic retail experiences powered by cutting-edge AI.

Then there's the "Brain Assistant," a tool that revolutionizes the way users interact online. It harnesses the power of AI to offer real-time, personalized web experiences, ensuring users can navigate the digital realm with confidence and ease. Whether you're searching through your data or the broader internet, Brain Assistant provides private, secure, and ad-free results, making information access a breeze.

Lastly, the “Brain Checkout” system embodies our progressive vision for e-commerce. By effortlessly merging instant checkouts with streamlined campaign management, it guarantees businesses can provide their customers with a fluid and hassle-free shopping experience.

In the grand tapestry of digital interactions, Rezolve Limited stands out as a beacon of innovation. We're not just responding to the digital evolution; we're shaping it, ensuring every interaction is intuitive, engaging, and leaves a lasting impression.

 

4. In what ways do you believe Rezolve Limited has made a significant impact or contribution to its industry or the market as a whole?

Rezolve Limited's imprint on the industry is unmistakable. We've not just introduced solutions; we've pioneered a paradigm shift in how businesses interact with their customers. By championing personalized and immersive experiences, we've empowered enterprises to forge deeper, more meaningful connections. This has not only bolstered sales but has also elevated the overall customer satisfaction quotient. Our endeavors have not just benefited individual businesses but have also played a pivotal role in steering the larger narrative toward enhanced customer engagement and digital metamorphosis across sectors. In a nutshell, Rezolve Limited's contributions have been instrumental in shaping the future of customer-centric digital interactions.

 

5. How has your background in sports, particularly cricket, influenced your leadership style and approach to building and managing a successful company like Rezolve Limited?

Cricket, for me, has been more than just a sport; it's been a crucible where character and leadership qualities are forged. The discipline, dedication, and teamwork I imbibed on the cricket field have seamlessly translated into my entrepreneurial journey. Leading a company like Rezolve Limited requires a symphony of collaboration, much like how a cricket team synchronizes its efforts for a win. Clear communication, akin to the unspoken understanding between a batsman and a bowler, is pivotal. The tenacity and resilience I honed during my cricketing days have been my compass, guiding me through the ebbs and flows of the business world. In essence, the ethos of cricket deeply resonates in the corridors of Rezolve Limited, influencing our approach to challenges, teamwork, and success.

 

6. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who are looking to embark on their own entrepreneurial journeys, especially those with a background in sports?

To all the budding entrepreneurs out there, especially those who've tasted the discipline and rigor of sports, remember that the entrepreneurial journey is akin to a long-drawn match. The values of discipline, teamwork, and handling high-pressure situations that sports ingrains in you are your biggest assets. Embrace the journey with the same zeal and passion you showed on the field. Keep an open mind, be adaptable, and never stop learning. Surround yourself with a team that complements your strengths and understands your vision. And most importantly, be prepared for a roller-coaster ride, but always remember, just as in sports, it's the perseverance and the undying spirit that ultimately leads to victory in the world of entrepreneurship.

 

7. How do you balance the demands of entrepreneurship with other aspects of your life, such as family and personal interests?

Balancing the intense demands of entrepreneurship with personal life is no easy feat. For me, the secret sauce has been meticulous time management and setting clear boundaries. I ensure that I carve out dedicated time for my family, who are my anchor, and my personal passions that rejuvenate me. Trusting my team and delegating effectively have also been pivotal. It's not just about working hard but working smart. At the end of the day, it's essential to find a rhythm that resonates with you, ensuring you're not just successful in business but also leading a fulfilling life.

 

 

8. What are your future plans and vision for Rezolve Limited? Are there any exciting developments or projects on the horizon that you can share with us?

Looking ahead, the horizon for Rezolve Limited is shimmering with promise. Our compass is firmly set on pushing the boundaries in customer engagement and broadening our horizons to newer markets. We're buzzing with anticipation for our upcoming ventures in augmented reality, AI-driven chatbots, and next-gen mobile engagement avenues. Moreover, we're in the midst of forging strategic alliances and collaborations to amplify our footprint and influence. Keep an eye on Rezolve Limited for some exciting developments in the near future!

 

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