Author: BFH Team

Legacy, leadership, and innovation—these are the pillars that define Roop Partap Choudhary’s journey. As the Executive Director of Noormahal Group and Founder of Colonel Saab, London, he has not only carried forward a family legacy but has also redefined the art of blending tradition with modern vision. From curating immersive experiences rooted in India’s rich cultural heritage to expanding globally with innovative business ventures, his approach offers valuable insights into entrepreneurship, storytelling, and the evolving landscape of luxury and experiential living.

In this exclusive conversation, Choudhary delves into his early influences, the lessons he learned from his father, and how he transformed challenges into opportunities. Beyond hospitality, he speaks about the power of art and culture, the importance of staying authentic in a rapidly changing world, and what it takes to build a brand that stands the test of time. Whether you are an entrepreneur, an art enthusiast, or someone drawn to stories of perseverance and passion, his journey is one of inspiration and purpose.

You come from a distinguished family with a strong legacy. What was your upbringing like, and how did it shape your outlook on business and hospitality?

Growing up in a family deeply rooted in hospitality and business, I was surrounded by an environment emphasizing discipline, hard work, and an appreciation for heritage. My father, Colonel Manbeer Choudhary, and my mother Mrs. Binny Choudhary instilled in me the values of leadership, perseverance, and a deep respect for tradition. This upbringing naturally shaped my approach to business, whereBlending Heritage I strive to blend legacy with modern luxury, creating unique experiences that celebrate India’s rich cultural heritage.

Was there a defining moment when you realized that hospitality was your true calling?

There was a defining moment when I truly understood the power of hospitality. While traveling across India with my father, I experienced firsthand the warmth and authenticity that define Indian hospitality. A particular stay at a heritage property left a lasting impact on me—I saw how a place could tell a story, evoke emotions, and transport guests to another era. That realization sparked my vision, leading to the inception of Noormahal Palace and later, Colonel Saab in London.

My father, with his military background, instilled in me discipline, perseverance, and the belief that extraordinary guest experiences lie in the finest details. Alongside him, my mother’s deep understanding of warmth and care reinforced my belief that true luxury is not just about opulence—it’s about personalization, authenticity, and creating emotional connections. These values continue to shape my approach to hospitality, blending heritage with innovation to craft unforgettable experiences.

Your father, Colonel Manbeer Choudhary, has been a great influence on you. What are some key lessons you have learned from him that you apply in your career?

My father has been my greatest mentor and source of inspiration. His military background has taught me that success comes with dedication and consistency, instilling a strong sense of discipline and perseverance. He always emphasized the importance of attention to detail, believing that the little things create extraordinary guest experiences. Additionally, he taught me the value of respecting tradition—while innovation is essential, staying true to one’s roots is what makes a brand truly unique and memorable.

Noormahal Palace has become an iconic luxury hotel under your leadership. What was the most significant challenge you faced in making it what it is today?

The biggest challenge was redefining luxury hospitality in a city like Karnal, which was not traditionally known as a luxury destination. Educating people about the value of heritage luxury and attracting high-end clientele required strategic branding and relentless efforts. We invested in creating an unparalleled experience by curating an exclusive art collection, offering impeccable service, and positioning Noormahal Palace as a premier destination for weddings and events.

What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?

The launch of Colonel Saab in London, a long-cherished dream, and the recognition of Noormahal Palace among the top five destinations for destination weddings are among my proudest moments. Watching both ventures receive international acclaim has been incredibly fulfilling.

Colonel Saab has been recognized as one of London’s top Indian restaurants by Forbes International. What was your vision behind this project?

Colonel Saab was envisioned as a love letter to India’s rich culinary and cultural heritage. More than just a restaurant, it was designed as an immersive experience where fine dining meets storytelling. Inspired by my father’s travels across India, every dish on the menu, every artifact in the space, and every design element reflects the depth and diversity of Indian culture.

Globally, Indian cuisine has often been limited to certain stereotypes, but at Colonel Saab, we wanted to showcase its true essence—regional flavors, royal traditions, and the artistry behind every dish. Similarly, Indian art and craftsmanship have always been revered, yet underrepresented in modern luxury dining. By weaving history, flavors, and artistry together, our goal was to redefine how the world experiences Indian hospitality, making it as refined, elegant, and multifaceted as the culture itself.

Colonel Saab is inspired by your father’s travel stories. Can you share a special memory or story that shaped the restaurant’s concept?

My father, Colonel Manbeer Choudhary, served in the Indian Army, earning the honorific title ‘Colonel Saab.’ His postings took our family across India, immersing us in the country’s diverse cultures, flavors, and traditions. We dined with royal families in Rajasthan, where age-old recipes were passed down through generations, offering a glimpse into regal culinary heritage. In the serene valleys of Kashmir, we experienced the delicate flavors of Wazwan, a feast that embodies the artistry of Kashmiri cuisine.

Our journeys took us from the spice-laden kitchens of Kerala’s backwaters to the remote Himalayan monasteries, where simple, soulful meals reflected the purity of the land. We shared meals with local communities, discovering how every region had its own story to tell through food. These experiences became the foundation of Colonel Saab—a place where every dish is a chapter, inviting guests on a journey through the tastes, traditions, and untold stories of India.

Noormahal Palace is known for its unmatched art collection and regal ambiance. How do you balance luxury with heritage authenticity?

The key is meticulous curation and storytelling. Every artifact at Noormahal Palace has been handpicked to reflect India’s rich history. We have sourced rare artworks, antiques, and architectural elements that maintain authenticity while offering guests an opulent experience.

Luxury, for me, is not just about extravagance—it’s about preserving and presenting culture in an immersive way. A significant part of this is the skilled manpower behind Noormahal Palace. We work closely with local artisans, painters, and craftsmen who bring centuries-old techniques to life, from intricate frescoes and hand-carved woodwork to elaborate Rajasthani mirror work and Mughal-inspired motifs. Their dedication ensures that every corner of the palace tells a story, seamlessly blending heritage with grandeur. By empowering local talent, we not only preserve traditional craftsmanship but also create an experience that feels truly authentic and timeless.

You’ve won multiple awards for Noormahal Palace as a destination wedding venue. What trends do you see emerging in luxury weddings?

Luxury weddings are evolving to be more personalized and experiential. Couples today seek unique themes, cultural authenticity, and a seamless blend of tradition with contemporary elegance. Sustainability is also a growing trend, with more eco-conscious wedding choices, from zero-waste decor to locally sourced gourmet menus.

Another significant shift is in the decision-making process. Earlier, weddings were largely planned by families, but today, every generation brings a fresh perspective. Young couples are more hands-on, prioritizing personalization, storytelling, and digital integration, while parents still focus on grandeur and heritage. This dynamic creates an entirely new approach to wedding planning—one that balances vision, experience, and budget in innovative ways.

At Noormahal Palace, we are constantly evolving to cater to these changing preferences, offering bespoke wedding experiences that honor tradition while embracing modern luxury. Whether it’s an intimate royal affair or a grand multi-day celebration, we ensure every wedding feels exclusive, meaningful, and timeless.

You are a passionate art collector, and your properties house some of the rarest artifacts. What draws you to collecting antiques and art?

Art has always fascinated me because it carries history, culture, and emotion. I believe that a well-curated collection can transform a space, making it timeless. But for me, collecting art isn’t about the price tag—it’s about the story it tells. Every piece doesn’t have to be expensive, but it must resonate, either through its origin, craftsmanship, or the cultural narrative it represents.

I pick up artifacts that speak to me—whether it’s a Tanjore painting deeply rooted in tradition or a contemporary piece that aligns with a certain emotion or aesthetic. When you start collecting with this mindset, it sharpens your own sense of aesthetics and appreciation. You begin to understand not just where an artwork comes from, but how it connects to you personally. This philosophy shapes the collections at Noormahal Palace and Colonel Saab, ensuring that every piece contributes to an immersive story rather than just being a decorative element.

You have participated in some of the world’s top auctions, including Sotheby’s and Christie’s. What has been your most prized acquisition?

Every piece of art and artifact I acquire holds a special place in my collection, not just for its rarity but for the story it tells. One of my most prized acquisitions is prominent art by Vivek Nimonkar, a masterpiece that beautifully captures the essence of continuity, tradition, and the human connection with nature. I also treasure an exquisite work of tribal art by Anushree Chakraborty, which reflects the raw, unfiltered storytelling of indigenous communities.

Beyond paintings, I have been fortunate to acquire extraordinary pieces of heritage craftsmanship. A Cocktail Bar by Asprey, originally commissioned by the Maharaja of Patiala, is a remarkable symbol of royal indulgence and bespoke luxury. The Baccarat decanters made for the Faridkot royal family and Mappin & Webb hand-painted dinner sets, created exclusively for an erstwhile royal family, are exquisite examples of European artistry blending with Indian regal elegance.

For me, collecting art and artifacts is not just about ownership—it’s about preserving legacies, curating stories, and celebrating the confluence of heritage and design. Each piece in my collection is a testament to history, craftsmanship, and the evolving aesthetic that shapes Noormahal Palace and Colonel Saab.

You’re aggressively expanding your business into Eastern Europe and London. What’s next for the Jewel Group of Hotels?

Our vision is to bring India’s royal heritage to a global audience. After the success of Colonel Saab in London and our ventures in Europe and other international markets, we are aggressively expanding our presence. We are exploring opportunities to introduce immersive Indian hospitality experiences beyond traditional destinations, ensuring that the essence of our culture resonates worldwide.

Additionally, we have ambitious plans to expand Noormahal Palace’s brand presence by developing boutique heritage properties in select destinations. These properties will blend architectural grandeur with modern luxury, offering guests an authentic yet world-class experience.

At the same time, we are continuously upgrading Noormahal Palace to provide the latest in luxury and comfort. Our constant endeavor is to enhance guest experiences—be it through modern amenities, personalized services, or innovative dining concepts—while staying true to our heritage roots. The goal is to not only preserve history but also evolve with the ever-changing expectations of global travelers.

What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs looking to make a mark in the hospitality industry?

My advice would be to stay authentic to your vision and never compromise on quality. The hospitality industry is about experiences—so focus on crafting something unique and memorable. Patience and persistence are key because building a brand takes time.

Equally important is building the right team. Hospitality is a people-driven industry, and your team members are the backbone of your success. Invest in them, empower them, and create a culture where they feel valued and motivated. A passionate, well-trained team will not only enhance guest experiences but also bring your vision to life in ways you never imagined.

Lastly, always stay curious and open to learning, because innovation is what keeps businesses relevant in a competitive landscape. Adapt to changing guest expectations, embrace new trends, and most importantly, lead with passion and purpose.

Noormahal Palace is known for its unmatched art collection and regal ambiance. How do you balance luxury with heritage authenticity?

Noormahal Palace meticulously blends modern luxury with traditions and history, creating a truly regal experience for our guests. Our mission is to offer not just a stay, but a journey through time, where the opulence of contemporary comforts meets the rich tapestry of our heritage. Every corner of the palace is adorned with exquisite artifacts that tell stories of the historic past, reflecting our passion for preserving legacies and celebrating the artistry of craftsmanship. Each piece in our collection bridges the gap between past and present, offering an immersive experience to the guests.

This unique blend of luxury and authenticity ensures that every visit to Noormahal Palace is not just memorable, but a celebration of our rich cultural legacy, tailored for the discerning traveler of today.

With the rise of experiential travel, how do you ensure that Noormahal offers a unique and immersive experience to guests?

As mentioned earlier, at Noormahal Palace, our focus is on creating unique and immersive experiences by blending rich cultural heritage with modern hospitality. We offer personalized itineraries that allow guests to explore local traditions, antique artifacts and savour delicious cuisine. Our specially curated activities, such as guided heritage walks, cooking classes featuring traditional recipes, and local craft workshops, engage guests in meaningful ways.

Additionally, we emphasize the importance of storytelling, ensuring that every experience is tied to the history and culture of the region. Our dedicated staff is trained to share insights and tales that connect guests more deeply to the surroundings. We also take guest feedback seriously, continuously refining our offerings to enhance the overall experience. By creating an environment where guests can connect with the local community and culture, we ensure that their stay at Noormahal Palace is both memorable, comfortable and rejuvenating.

Ram Sellaratnam isn’t just leading iBUS Network—he’s redefining what digital infrastructure means in today’s world. From his early days at Infosys to now driving iBUS’s ambitious growth, his career has been shaped by everything admirable– from adaptability to strong networks, and a vision for giving way to a meaningful impact. There is a lot we can learn from Ram Sellaratnam’s story, it is not one of a drastic or sudden shift, but of gradual growth and perseverance. Ram Sellaratnam has accomplished greatly not simply as a leader or businessman– but also as an inspiring figure in the field of Marathon. This versatility is one that a lot of men can learn from.

But his leadership isn’t just about creating business strategy but it’s about pushing limits, whether it be in the corporate world or on the marathon track– he has seen it all, done it all and is ready to share his valuable insight on the same with us. A passionate endurance athlete and Ironman aspirant, Ram brings the same discipline, resilience, and curiosity to his personal life as he does to his role as a CEO.

In this conversation with BFH, he opens up to us about his journey, the challenges of building next-generation infrastructure, and how the lessons from running and leadership often overlap in unexpected ways, and how every man can learn from these overlaps that take the form of accidental blessings in one’s career path and life in general. This interview will be a fresh call for the youth to stay resilient, the more you shall read, the more you’ll find yourself engrossed in his stories and life lessons.

From Infosys to iBUS CEO—what were the key turning points that shaped your leadership?

When I decided to move on from Infosys, the company was going through a transition, and I felt it was the right time for me to explore new opportunities. At that time, I was in the UK, but after returning to India, I reconnected with my former colleague, Subash, for some personal advice. That conversation led me to learn about iBUS and the vision that Subash and Sunil had for the company. Their aspirations resonated with me, and that’s how my journey with iBUS began. It was a pivotal moment that shaped my leadership approach, reinforcing the importance of adaptability, strong professional networks, and aligning with a vision that drives meaningful impact.

iBUS aims to expand from 1B to 10B sq. ft. in five years. What’s the vision behind this growth?

Our vision for iBUS has always been to build something truly unique—something that hasn’t been done before. We see ourselves as a digital infrastructure technology company, addressing a fundamental need in today’s digital-first world. Just as the industrial economy relied on essential infrastructure like electric grids, railroads, and utilities in the 20th century, the 21st century requires a new kind of infrastructure to support the digital economy.

Our approach is twofold: we build the foundational infrastructure needed to power seamless connectivity, and we integrate technology into these systems to make them more intelligent and efficient. That’s why we call ourselves a digital infrastructure tech company—we’re not just building connectivity; we’re revolutionizing how infrastructure operates using technology.

When we talk about expanding from 1 billion to 10 billion square feet, it’s not just about numbers—it’s about enabling digital transformation across all kinds of spaces, whether it’s buildings, airports, hospitals, or any other three-dimensional environments. These spaces must evolve to be inherently digital, meaning they need seamless mobile and Wi-Fi connectivity, machine communications, and self-diagnosing sensor systems that interact intelligently.

The 10 billion target over the next five years is a milestone for us, but our vision extends beyond that. We believe that as the world becomes increasingly connected, the demand for robust digital infrastructure will continue to grow exponentially, and iBUS will be at the forefront of that transformation.

As a marathoner and Ironman aspirant, how do you balance fitness with leadership, and what lessons do you apply?

I wouldn’t call myself an accomplished marathoner—just an aspirant. But fitness is fully integrated into my routine; there’s no separation between it and my professional life. In fact, many of the lessons I’ve learned from running directly apply to leadership. The first is fanatic discipline—the commitment to staying consistent, no matter the circumstances. Whether in athletics or business, results come from relentless effort and discipline over time.

The second is creative empiricism—focusing on the process rather than just the end goal. In a marathon, you don’t fixate on the finish line from the start; you pay attention to the present—listening to your body, knowing when to hydrate, and making adjustments. Leadership works the same way. Success isn’t about chasing an endpoint; it’s about making data-driven decisions every day and refining your strategy as you go.

The third is productive paranoia—always preparing for risks and uncertainties. Just like marathon training requires injury prevention, strength training, and recovery, business success demands a strong margin of safety. In our industry, which is B2B, our growth is linked to our customers’ growth. So if we aim for 100, we plan for 200—building resilience into our strategy to withstand uncertainties.

Ultimately, whether in running or business, these three principles—fanatic discipline, creative empiricism, and productive paranoia—guide my approach to leadership.

How do you foster a culture of innovation at iBUS?

Innovation, by its very nature, is error-prone. If everything we do is perfect, it likely means we haven’t pushed ourselves hard enough. At iBUS, we cultivate a culture where failure isn’t just accepted—it’s seen as an essential part of progress. True innovation happens when people are encouraged to experiment, take risks, and push boundaries.

Beyond fostering a risk-taking mindset, we emphasize discipline and consistency over sheer work hours. It’s not about working 80 or 100 hours a week; it’s about building a routine and sticking to it. Whether someone starts their day at 9:15 or 10:15, what matters most is their commitment to showing up consistently and delivering results.

Finally, we believe in setting ambitious targets, even when the path to success isn’t entirely clear. Testing our limits is the only way to discover our true potential. And with that, comes accountability—owning both our successes and our failures. This mindset keeps us agile, resilient, and always striving to redefine what’s possible in digital infrastructure.

What are the biggest challenges in 5G convergence, and how does iBUS plan to tackle them?

The telecom industry is a highly regulated, closed-loop system dominated by a few global players who control most of the technology patents. This creates significant barriers to breakthrough innovation and limits openness within the ecosystem.

In India, the market is essentially a duopoly, with a few large players leading the space. With limited competition, there is often little incentive for rapid adoption of new technologies. The dominant approach is to mirror each other rather than drive disruptive change, which slows overall industry progress.

However, we see this challenge as an opportunity. The industry’s slow adoption of emerging technologies has led to inefficiencies, and by leveraging advancements in technology and rethinking traditional business models, we believe we can unlock significant value. Our approach is straightforward: prioritize the value equation—focus on delivering solutions that maximize efficiency and create tangible benefits for our customers.

By staying agile, embracing innovation, and challenging the status quo, we aim to overcome these barriers and drive meaningful change in the 5G convergence space in the years ahead.

How has your global business experience influenced your approach to India’s digital infrastructure market?

My global experience has been invaluable, especially as India has increasingly aligned with international business practices. Today, concepts like ESG, anti-corruption laws, and global compliance standards are not just understood but actively embraced in the Indian market. This shift has made it easier to integrate best practices from around the world into our operations.

In the digital infrastructure space—an industry that remains highly regulated and fragmented—global exposure provides a significant advantage. It helps us stay ahead of the curve in areas like reporting, quality, and compliance. Unlike other sectors, this industry still lacks large-scale players, which is precisely where we see an opportunity—to consolidate and drive efficiencies at scale. 

Looking at global tech giants, some of whom have market capitalizations exceeding the GDPs of entire nations, it’s clear that scale is the key to long-term success. By applying global insights and leveraging India’s unique market dynamics, we aim to build a truly transformative digital infrastructure ecosystem.

How does Mark Twain’s quote—‘History doesn’t repeat itself, but it often rhymes’—shape your leadership?

I like this phrase because it captures a balanced approach to growth, leadership, and decision-making. The first part reminds us not to assume that just because something happened before, it will happen the same way again. The second part acknowledges that patterns do emerge, and we can learn from them.

For instance, in telecom, the adoption of 4G had its own pace and challenges. 5G won’t follow the exact same trajectory, but there will be similarities in market cycles, regulatory hurdles, and adoption patterns. The key is to not get too anchored to the past while remaining open to extracting valuable lessons.

What does your Ironman training routine look like, and how do you stay mentally committed?

Training for an Ironman is all about discipline—you have to be fanatical about it. But as amateur athletes balancing demanding work schedules, travel, and daily responsibilities, it’s not always easy to stay on track.

There are days when I miss sessions due to work or travel. For example, if I return home late at night, waking up at 5 AM for training becomes unrealistic. My coach provides a structured daily calendar, and my goal is to hit the smileys (indicating completed sessions). If I miss one, I work with my support team to adjust and catch up.

One of the key motivators for me is what I call a ‘social contract.’ I openly tell people—colleagues, friends, and even you—that I’m training for an Ironman. Once I declare it, people naturally check in and ask about my progress, creating a positive pressure that keeps me accountable. This external push reinforces my commitment and keeps me going.

Having completed 15 marathons, how has running shaped your mindset in business and life?

A marathon is not a sprint—you have to be extremely patient, disciplined, and prepared for pain. After the first few kilometers, you’re running on physical strength. But as fatigue sets in, it becomes a mental battle. Towards the end, you’re running purely on hope and sheer willpower.

There’s a moment in every marathon when you ask yourself, ‘Why am I doing this? I’ll never do it again.’ But the moment you cross the finish line, that thought flips—you feel an incredible high and immediately start thinking about the next one. That cycle of struggle, doubt, and eventual triumph keeps repeating itself.

It’s the same in business. You push through tough challenges, deal with setbacks, and at times feel like giving up. But once you achieve a breakthrough, you’re ready to take on the next challenge. That resilience—embracing the struggle and coming back for more—is what both marathons and business are all about.

At 64, you continue pushing boundaries in business and fitness. What advice do you have for others?

These days, staying active at 60 and beyond isn’t extraordinary—it’s almost expected! At events like the Mumbai Marathon, you see so many people of my vintage participating. The real question now isn’t ‘How are you still doing it?’ but rather, ‘Why aren’t you doing it yet?’

For me, maintaining a healthy work-life balance isn’t about biological age but about fitness age. At 64, I want to feel like I’m 35—full of energy and enthusiasm. When you’re fit, everything improves. You’re in a better mood, more pleasant with colleagues and family, and life just feels more enjoyable. On the other hand, neglecting your health affects your mood, relationships, and even your work.

Fitness also instills discipline.I sleep by 9:30 PM, wake up early, and use my mornings productively. Running is my choice, but the key takeaway is to find what keeps you active, happy, and energized. That’s the real game-changer.

Which books have significantly influenced your leadership and thinking?

I’m a voracious reader, and many books have significantly shaped my thinking and leadership philosophy. Jim Collins’ Good to Great is one I often revisit for its insights on leadership and business excellence. Peter Thiel’s Zero to One offers fascinating perspectives on innovation and startups, which I deeply appreciate.

Beyond business, I find great wisdom in the Mahabharata, particularly the teachings of Sanatsujata and Viduraniti, which I’m currently exploring further. Michael Mandel’s perspectives also resonate with me. These books and ideas continue to influence how I think, lead, and make decisions.

Beyond iBUS, what future goals excite you in business, fitness, or personal growth?

I already feel like I’m in retirement because, to me, work is fun. Post-retirement is supposed to be about enjoying what you do, and that’s exactly how I see business.

Looking ahead, I see myself continuing to stay involved in business in some capacity. One area I’m particularly curious about is launching a hedge fund—something I might explore in the future.

On the fitness front, I’ll keep running and also plan to get back into golf.

For personal development, I always enjoy learning new things. A colleague recently suggested taking up juggling, so I’m waiting to enroll in a class. I’ve also attempted singing, though many have rejected my efforts—but I still have hope!

Rapid Fire

1. Morning routine or night owl? – Morning Person

2.Favorite book or author? – Good to Great by Jim Collins, Zero to One by Peter Thiel, and the Mahabharata for its timeless wisdom.

3. One word that describes your leadership style? Positive

4. What’s your go-to workout for staying fit? Running

5. Favorite marathon location? London 

With over 26 years of experience in cybersecurity across New Zealand, Singapore, and India, Sandeep Sengupta has been at the forefront of ethical hacking, cybercrime investigation, and cybersecurity education. As the Director of the Indian School of Ethical Hacking (ISOEH), he has not only contributed to strengthening cybersecurity defenses but has also mentored the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. In this exclusive Q&A, he shares his journey, insights, and advice for aspiring ethical hackers.

Having a 26-year career in cybersecurity across multiple countries, what initially drew you to this field?

It all started with curiosity and, to be honest, a bit of mischief. A friend and I worked on a project together, but when it was time to share the final file, he refused. That was enough motivation for me to figure out how to access it on my own. After some trial and error, I succeeded, and that experience opened my eyes to the vast world of cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity is constantly evolving. How do you keep yourself ahead of the curve?

I make it a point to study every single day. The moment you stop learning in this field, you fall behind. Cyber threats are always evolving, and so must we. That’s why, even now, I’ve enrolled in an LLB program. Understanding the legal side of cybersecurity is just as important as the technical aspects.

Have you ever faced a major professional setback? How did you overcome it?

I don’t believe in setbacks—only lessons. Life is all about ups and downs, but every challenge teaches you something valuable. If you view obstacles as opportunities for growth rather than failures, you’ll never truly experience what people call a “setback.”

What has been the most thrilling or unexpected experience in your work with law enforcement on cybercrime cases?

There have been many, but a few stand out. Being part of the Pegasus inquiry team was a significant experience, as was assisting the police during cyber raids. I’ve also had the privilege of conducting cybersecurity audits for organizations like ONGC, the Bangladesh national data center, PWC, ITC, and IIT Kharagpur. But one of the most rewarding experiences has been mentoring students who are now in top positions across the industry. Seeing them succeed is one of the greatest rewards of my career.

If you had to give one piece of advice to young professionals looking to build a career in ethical hacking, what would it be?

Start with the basics—Wikipedia is your best friend. Then move to YouTube, where you can find endless resources to sharpen your skills. Once you have a strong foundation, pursue global certifications like CCNA, CEH, and OSCP.

most knowledge is for free if you know where to look for it. If you’re truly passionate and enough internet-savvy, you can learn almost everything without spending any money.

Since you have a demanding schedule, how do you ensure you stay physically and mentally fit?

I keep things simple. I don’t take stress. Stress is terrible for your progress. Also, eat healthy, do light exercise, and unwind with movies. No matter how busy my day is, I make sure I’m in bed by 12 midnight everyday anyhow. 

Working in cybersecurity means long hours in front of screens. Do you have any wellness habits to counteract the negative effects?

Yes, and I wish I had been more aware about it earlier. Staring at screens for long hours has affected my eyesight, my eyes hurt a lot. which is something I’m actively trying to manage by looking at distant objects from time to time to reduce eye strain. But I admit—this  still is a big concern for me right now. 

A field revolving around cybercrime can be intense and high-pressure. What strategies do you use to manage stress and maintain mental clarity?

I firmly believe that stress is a result of being inactive. If you complete your work on time, there’s no reason to feel overwhelmed. I’ve always been disciplined about time management, and that has helped me handle pressure without feeling burned out.

Do you have a morning or nighttime routine that helps you stay focused and productive?

Yes. I make sure I never stay up beyond midnight, no matter how busy I am. Waking up early and having a structured day keeps me productive.

What role does fitness or physical activity play in your life? Do you follow any specific workout or sport?

Fitness is extremely important for growth but here’s the truth for my life—80% of health is controlled by what you eat, and only 20% by exercise. I’m very disciplined about my diet and make sure  I do light exercise regularly. 

As the Director of ISOEH, what’s your vision for the future of ethical hacking education in India?

The way people learn is changing in current times. In the future, education will be free. People will no longer be judged by certificates but, by their skills. The internet has democratised knowledge by a good lot. and those who know how to leverage it will definitely thrive.

You’ve worked with major corporations like PWC, KPMG, and Tata Steel. What’s one leadership lesson you’ve learned from working with such industry giants?

Three things—be process-oriented, define clear Key Result Areas (KRA) and Key Performance Indicators (KPI), and most importantly, be disciplined. That’s the foundation of leadership.

AI is disrupting many industries, including cybersecurity. What are your thoughts on the intersection of AI and cyber threats?

AI is both a powerful tool and a potential threat. One of the most alarming developments is deep-fake technology, which can be used for highly sophisticated cyber crimes.

But here’s something even more concerning—a robot in China recently “kidnapped” 12 other robots without human intervention. If AI can communicate and act independently, we are looking at a future where machines could become the dominant species. It’s a scenario that cybersecurity experts need to prepare for.

Rapid-Fire Round

14. What’s your go-to productivity hack?

Learn and apply—stay ahead of time.

15. One gadget you can’t live without?

My mobile phone.

16. Your favorite way to relax after a long day?

Sleep and watching TV.