Subhash Chandra: To be able to think like a teenager makes me happy

Subhash Chandra is known for being able to foresee the next big trend about the future. He has complete faith in his own abilities—something that is just not possible without being totally aware of one’s own strengths and weakness. The media baron attributes this ability to his practice of self-observation through silence—Vipassana.

You look fit and it’s really hard to guess your age. Do you exercise to maintain your youthful look?

Subhash Chandra: Over time, I have become particular about my fitness. Apart from being a Vipassana practitioner, I work out every morning for at least half an hour.

If you had to choose between the two, what would you choose—money or health? And why?

Subhash Chandra: Health is extremely important to me. Only if you are healthy, will you be able to concentrate on other aspects of life. If your body is fit and mind is healthy, money, wealth and prosperity just follow.

What’s your approach to food—are you calorie-conscious or a hearty eater?

Subhash Chandra: I am calorie-conscious and prefer home-cooked food. I believe that your food intake influences your thoughts and that’s why no matter which part of the world I am in, I am always careful about my food intake and watch what I eat.

Are you also conscious about your mental state?

Subhash Chandra: Emotional wellbeing and happiness are what determine our state of mind. Hence, they are both important to me. I believe that it is small things in life that bring us true happiness. We need to value them and be observant to those around us.

What makes you happy?

Subhash Chandra: To be able to think like a teenager or a person in early 20s makes me happy.

Let’s now talk about your rise as a media baron. Did you always want to venture into this business?

Subhash Chandra: Actually, during the initial years of my life I dreamt of becoming an engineer. But destiny had other plans for me. Our family was in the trading business. In 1967, we suffered huge losses. It was then that I stepped in and took over the reins.

I learnt with each step I took and one thing led to another. Each process gave birth to a new idea. First, we ventured into the packaging business, then theme parks and then media and entertainment. The rest, as they say, is history.

Surely there must’ve been hurdles….

Subhash Chandra: Each business has its share of ups and down, I came across hurdles too, but they never bothered me enough. Getting up after each fall and running harder than before is what sets you apart from others.