Winning Stroke: Interview With Praveen Kumar Gupta, Co-founder, Planet Organic India
If not in the current profession, you would be?
I have been a business entrepreneur for quite some time now and I cannot imagine a different life. Recently, I have diversified my business into FMCG segment which is growing amazingly nowadays and organic is a blooming sector, so I definitely want to devote more time in this profession till the time its gets deserved brand value into the market.
One tune you always hum?
I prefer old or retro Hindi songs over modern-day music. One of my all-time favorites is the song, “Kabhi kabhi mere dil mein khayal aata hai…” from the movie Kabhi Kabhi sung in the melodious voice of Lata Mangeshkar and Mukesh.
One book to read when you want to motivate yourself?
I believe books are the best companions and advisers. As an entrepreneur, I always look up to Ratan Tata and thus his book, “The Wit & Wisdom of Ratan Tata” is my favorite. It is book that should be a must read for not only for entrepreneurs but also for everyone else.
One dialogue of a movie that motivates you or you like the most?
I think one of the most well-made movies in India on accomplishment and education must be 3 Idiots. The movie has a dialogue by Amir Khan where he says, “Success Ke Peeche Mat Bhaago, Excellence Ka Peecha Karo, Success Jhak Maarke Tumhare Peeche Ayegi”. This dialogue beautifully encompasses the essence of achievement in life.
The place you have never been to and always want to go?
There is so much to explore in the world but if I must name one country then it would be Canada. The place is beautiful amalgamation of diverse cultures and has a rich history. It also has one of the strongest economies in the world.
An animal that signifies you & why?
Animals are amazingly smart beings and there is a lot that can be learnt from them. I believe I have characteristics similar to that of Ravens and Elephant. Ravens are known to multi-task. They use logic to understand their surroundings in a way that may even surpass the ability of the great apes. Just like the ravens I often have to multitask in my line of work. It is also imperative, as an entrepreneur to the assess my situation and make important decisions based on it.
It is said that Elephant have an excellent memory, hence the saying "elephants never forget." Elephants can recognize members of their herd even after being separated from them for years. I believe that I have good recollection ability though it may not be as good as the Elephants.
If your life were to be turned into a movie, who would you like to play your part?
I am big fan of Amir Khan and have great admiration for him. So, if my life were to be ever turned into a movie, I would love Amir Khan to portray my role.
Luck or Hard Work, what do you think weighs more in defining a successful person?
I think both works simultaneously. When you work hard then only the luck will follow. Until and unless you do something you cannot expect good luck. One should not be depended on luck for things to go their way. Instead work earnestly towards their wants and dreams.
One best decision you ever made?
My decision to switch from a regular job to business was my best decision. It seemed daunting at first, but I have never regretted it. It has made me very content in my professional life.
A strategy that you always use to make your decisions in Personal or Professional life?
Before making any important decision, I do a SWOT Analysis. It helps me see the pros and cons of a situation clearly. Thereby, helping me reach an informed conclusion.
Whose advice do you seek when in a dilemma?
It is difficult to avoid dilemmas in life both professional and in personal life. I believe elder siblings play many roles of family, friend and guide. So, whenever I get stuck, I seek my elder brother’s advice.
What has been your biggest achievement?
I think one of biggest achievement in my professional life is when my company crossed a business turnover Rs.50 Cr in 2019 as per plan.
One thing that you want to change in yourself?
We as humans, are constantly learning and evolving. Change is an important part of our life but to mention one change that I wish to see in myself would be more patience.
A line said by your closed one that you never forget?
A close one of mine once told me, “Practice makes a man perfect.” I think that is one of the best advice I have ever received. We are constantly learning from our mistakes and thus to be the best at something we need to practice it multiple times. Only then we can improve upon ourselves.
