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Suryansh Vaidya is a business leader serving as the director at Vaidya’s Organization of Industries and Trading Houses (VOITH), the CEO at Vaidya Energy, and the founder of Pitstop Incorporated. A graduate of Bentley University, he holds a degree in Business Management with a concentration in entrepreneurship. Vaidya Energy is a sole distributor of Ather Energy, an electric scooter manufacturer. ApEx interviewed Vaidya regarding Ather, business and Nepali market.

How is the automobile market now in Nepal? Has it come to the point before covid?

The automotive market in Nepal has been in an exciting and unpredictable state from the time of covid. That is when I started working in the business and it has been a great learning experience, giving me an opportunity to build myself up stronger. 

The automotive market actually performed well immediately after the pandemic restrictions were lifted. The pent up demand actually boosted sales to pre-covid levels right within a matter of months. We look at the performance now, it’s a different game altogether, this is a market where survival has been a question and can be traced back to some questionable decisions our country made. 

The rapid adoption of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), constituting over 60 percent of new vehicle sales in the past two years, is a pivotal trend with profound implications. This surge necessitates a keen examination of its impact on the market, environment, societal dynamics, and individual behaviors.

This adoption rate signifies a transformative shift in the automotive industry, demanding a strategic response from stakeholders. Beyond market changes, the shift to BEVs aligns with global sustainability goals, emphasizing the urgent need for environmentally responsible transportation choices.

Examining mobility preparedness is crucial; it extends beyond charging infrastructure to include servicing, spare parts availability, and workforce readiness. Gaps in second and third channel service centers underscore the need for strategic training programs to ensure a seamless transition.

The significant workforce employed in the automotive sector, exceeding 100,000 people, underscores the imperative for their smooth transition. Adequate training and opportunities are crucial to adapt to the evolving landscape, ensuring business sustainability.

While acknowledging global investments in charging infrastructure during electric mobility transitions, our government faces fiscal challenges. The current deficit emphasizes the urgency of aggressive government investment, recognizing the private sector's limitations in meeting national needs alone.

In essence, this condensed evaluation underscores the paramount importance of addressing these facets for a sustainable and thriving future of mobility in Nepal.

How did the idea come to tie up with Ather?

Inherited from my grandfather and nurtured by my family, our legacy has granted me the opportunity to explore and expand upon my interests. I find myself incredibly fortunate to be drawn to the dynamic world of mobility, recognizing it as a catalyst for economic development and societal progress. My journey with Toyota, a renowned company, exposed the challenge of reaching a broader audience due to our country’s current policies.

Seeking ways to bridge this gap, Ather, a beacon in the mobility industry, emerged as a potential partner. The initiation was a cold email, a leap of faith that yielded a surprising response from the Ather team. Notably, they remarked on my unique approach—a solitary call in a cafe, contrasting with the typical boardroom settings. Responding to their inquiries, I grounded my answers in comprehensive research, firmly believing in its role as the cornerstone of effective decision-making.

Our exchanges led to an invitation to Bangalore, where I had the opportunity to tour the Ather office, absorb the essence of their company culture, and, to my elation, learn that they had chosen us. The moment was a whirlwind of excitement and ecstasy, tempered by the realization of the substantial challenges that lay ahead.

Every day as I step into the Ather experience center, the memories of that transformative journey resurface. It serves as a constant reminder of the evolution from a speculative cold email to a collaborative partnership with a pioneering mobility company, fueling my determination to navigate the peaks and valleys of this ambitious endeavor.

How is Ather doing in the Nepali market?

Ather has exceeded our expectations, and our dynamic team in Nepal, brimming with energy, persistence, and motivation, has propelled us to success in the two-wheeler segment despite lacking prior experience. Witnessing these vibrant individuals do justice to the brand is truly gratifying. Despite Ather being a young company with just five years of experience in selling scooters, it has evolved into a powerhouse in India. Our gratitude goes to the Indian team for their invaluable support, guidance, and mentorship, ensuring nothing but success for us. We also commend Ather for its adaptability, learning, and success in both our country and the export market—marking their first venture outside of India. With over 100 units sold and a surge in bookings, we are currently out of stock. Our plans include delivering 40+ units for the launch of our second experience center in Lalitpur in January.

We are looking to expand our reach over the country and have been looking for dealers throughout the country. We are planning to expand to Pokhara, Chitwan, Butwal and the East within the next four months and six more markets around the nation by Nov 2024.

We are dedicated to fostering trust within our customer community through our relentless efforts. Expanding our service network is a top priority, aiming to establish numerous touch points for enhanced accessibility. Our focus is on creating a comprehensive charging infrastructure across the country, with a particular emphasis on urban areas while not overlooking highway routes. By the end of March we should have a total 18 chargers across the country with 10 being installed inside the valley by the end of February. Ather has recently achieved approval as the Indian standard, ensuring that all future two-wheeler EVs will feature Ather's plug point. This positions us to effectively serve the growing community of electric vehicle enthusiasts across the nation.

As the director of VOITH, what are the key areas you look into the company?

As a director, I perceive the role merely as a position, drawing from my early involvement in a business-centric family. Embarking on my official career in Toyota’s marketing department, I spearheaded an in-house team that clinched a prestigious marketing award across the entire subcontinent of South West Asia. This success fueled our expansion efforts, leading to the creation of Pitstop—a boutique workshop aimed at providing a personalized mobility experience for the people of Nepal, in collaboration with the skilled team at United Traders Syndicate.

Our journey extended with the establishment of Vaidya Energy, stemming from our association with Ather. Beyond business endeavors, our commitment lies in improving the lives of the people of Nepal by addressing critical needs. This includes delving into renewable energy projects, cultivating corporate agriculture to mitigate food imports and enhance food security, and contributing to education to unlock the full potential of our population. It’s a holistic approach aimed at fostering sustainable development and progress for the nation. Our projects span across developing and researching wind energy projects across Nepal to reduce our reliance on only one source that we have in Nepal. Initiating a citrus farm that would potentially offset imports from India, and establishing high level educational institutions that offer programs to place students in the best tech businesses on the planet. 

What are your suggestions for aspiring young entrepreneurs?

Given my youth, I may not possess the qualifications to dispense advice, but I can certainly share my perspectives and experiences with those who will shape our nation in the coming decades. The current scenario appears disheartening as evidenced by the increasing number of Nepali citizens leaving the country on a daily basis. I hold profound respect for these individuals, recognizing their crucial role in sustaining our economy. My personal journey differs from that of many fellow citizens, and I am acutely aware of the privilege that comes with my circumstances. Grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given, I am committed to utilizing my resources to contribute meaningfully to the betterment of our nation. 

I encourage the youth to look beyond the current state of our nation, maintaining a steadfast hope for our collective future. As the youth, we hold the power to effect positive change and make a lasting impact.

While some may perceive our country as lacking hope and opportunities, I choose to view it as a blank canvas where we can create a meaningful imprint. Opting to work in a developed foreign land might position us as mere components in a larger system, but here, we have the chance to conceptualize and construct that system according to our vision. Recognizing the exceptional potential within our people is inspiring. Traveling globally and hearing outsiders praise Nepali migrants for their unparalleled work ethic, discipline, and creativity brings me joy. We are acknowledged as some of the hardest working, most disciplined, and creative individuals on the planet.

Much like how we wash our hands to stay healthy, practicing good cyber hygiene helps protect against online threats. As we use digital technology for various aspects of our lives, from communication to financial transactions, practicing good cyber hygiene is important. It lets users navigate their digital experience while mitigating potential risks.

SP Pashupati Kumar Ray, 48, has been working in the Nepali Police Cyber Bureau for 27 years. He looks after cybersecurity-related issues and is involved in cybercrime investigations. Babita Shrestha from ApEx talked to Ray about how to deal with and respond to problems in cyber security.

What should we do to secure our devices from cybersecurity threats?

First make sure you regularly update the operating system, antivirus software, and application as it will fix vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers. But at the same time, you should be very mindful of the software you use. Be careful about using pirated software because it often lacks proper security features, making it easier for hackers to find a way in. Some free apps we download might also try to take our information, so it’s good to check and control what data they can access. Also when you set a password, make it strong and unique by mixing letters, numbers, and symbols. I would recommend you turn on two-factor authentication to give extra protection which asks you for a second verification besides the password. Be cautious about clicking on links or downloading things, especially if they come from unknown sources in emails or messages, as they might be harmful.

Are public Wi-Fi networks secure?

While using public networks, it’s best not to do important things like accessing or transmitting highly confidential data, such as online banking or sensitive work information. Don’t use public Wi-Fi when you have to put in your username, password, or OTP. It’s risky because someone could easily steal that information. So I would say it’s better not to use public Wi-Fi for anything related to security, privacy, or transactions with sensitive information. Public Wi-Fi networks are okay for simple internet browsing but it’s still good to check if it’s secure.

How can we avoid phishing attempts or any social engineering attacks?

If you’re receiving phishing attempts, then you should look for signs in email like unfamiliar senders, misspellings, or suspicious URLs. Phishing is all about trickery and stealing information, so it is better when you verify details by making a call if something seems off. Nowadays, AI spots emails that might be scams and pre-inform you about them. It’s always a good idea to double-check if someone asks for personal or financial details unexpectedly.

How can we recognize and avoid fake websites and phishing URLs when browsing the internet?

Fake website links can be tricky. Check if the website’s address has misspellings or extra characters. Make sure the website starts with “https://” and has a padlock icon in the address bar. Use browser security features and antivirus software to stay protected. Make it a habit to double-check. It can help you avoid scams and keep your personal information safe when browsing the internet. Sometimes you also need to trust your instincts about making friends online. Don’t talk to people you don’t know, stay away from suspicious links, and be careful about sharing too much. ‘Stop, Think, and Connect’ before clicking or sharing anything online.

Is there a way to prevent unauthorized access?

To keep your online accounts safe, use strong and different passwords for each one of them. If you can, turn on two-factor authentication. Change passwords regularly and avoid using easy-to-guess details like birthdays. Make sure to adjust privacy settings on social media and other accounts. Also, be cautious about what you install on your devices and check what it’s allowed to do before saying ‘yes’. I suggest you get your application from trusted places to avoid downloading malicious software.

What are your thoughts on virtual private networks (VPNs)?

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are good for keeping your online stuff safe. But, again, you need to be careful where you get them. For example, when TikTok was banned in Nepal some people downloaded VPNs for free to use it. The VPN itself isn’t bad, but if you download it from the wrong place, like for free, it might bring harmful stuff like spyware or malware software along with it. This can harm your computer and even let hackers in. So, it’s better to be safe and get your VPN from a trusted source, especially if you’re using it to keep your data safe.

What resources are available for reporting online harassment or cyberbullying in Nepal?

If someone is bothering or bullying you online, I suggest you save messages or take screenshots to prove what’s going on. Report the problem to the Nepal Police by filing a complaint. You have to explain the situation and show any evidence you have. The police will look into it and take action against the person causing problems. But you should act within 35 days of the incident. Otherwise, the case might get dismissed as per the Electronic Transaction Act. The Nepal Police are here to help so don’t hesitate to contact them if you’re dealing with online harassment.

Those who practice yoga vouch for its many benefits. They say it is good for their overall wellbeing, that it makes them calmer and agile. Though research into it is still preliminary, scientific evidence supports what yogis have been claiming for decades—yoga, if done right, can be therapeutic. 

Zahyan Shahani is a yoga instructor. She conducts yoga classes at her studio, Zenned Out, in Jhamsikhel, Lalitpur. She has been practicing yoga for almost a decade. She spoke to Babita Shrestha from ApEx about the healing benefits of yoga, how it can make you more mindful of the present, and why the early hours of the morning is considered to be the best time to practice yoga.

Are there any health benefits of regular yoga practice?

Yoga is a great way to make you more focused on whatever you’re doing. It can help you stay calm, handle stress, and even deal with mood swings. If you have health issues, it might ease the symptoms. It keeps your organs and breathing in good shape. Following the right poses and sequences can strengthen your muscles, make you more flexible, and improve how you move around. Yoga isn’t just about the body but also keeps your mind healthy, helps you sleep better, and keeps you on track.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to do yoga? 

I’d recommend finding a workout that suits you and easily fits into your daily life. Think of it as a long term fitness regime and not a temporary trend. Start with a nearby studio or instructor to understand the basics of breathing, alignment, and techniques. It’s crucial in the beginning to prevent potential long-term damage to your bones or muscles. You might not immediately have issues but they could catch up later if you’re not practicing correctly. Once you’ve grasped the fundamentals, you can practice on your own. 

Is there a good time to practice yoga?

Practicing yoga in the morning sets a positive tone for the day, helping you focus on your purpose and approach the day with the right mindset. If you’re interested in why mornings are ideal for yoga, explore ‘Brahma Muhurta’. This Sanskrit term translates to ‘time of Brahma’,’sacred time’, ‘time of divinity’ or ‘the creator’s time.’ It refers to the period just before sunrise, which is believed to be when your life force is at its strongest. Practicing yoga during this time can make a big difference in how you tackle the day.

How does yoga contribute to improving flexibility and mental well-being? 

The practice of yoga, particularly through various asanas, not only enhances physical fitness but helps you create a healthy space between joints by elongating tight muscles. It allows connection between deeper sets of muscles. If you love a slow and gentle asana practice, you can opt for Yin Yoga but if you like it to be fast paced, you can  go for Vinyasa or Power Yoga. There is Ashtanga Yoga for the ones who love routine sequences. Pranayama practice along with gentle asanas that open up the back, chest, and abdominal muscles can also help you with respiratory health.

Can you share a simple yoga tip that anyone can use in their day to day life? 

There’s this yoga move called Vajrasana. It’s one of the simplest asanas. You can do it right after you’ve had lunch or dinner. It’s not just good for improving slow digestion but also helps you if you’re dealing with issues like infection or gastroenteritis. On top of giving your digestive system a boost, it also keeps your spine healthy. As for other asanas, I recommend you do them on an empty stomach or a few hours after having food. If you’ve got any spinal health issues, it’s better to have someone guide you through yoga practice.

What are some things to keep in mind before starting a yoga session?

For anyone dealing with specific health concerns, especially back pain, my advice would be to have a chat with your yoga instructor or healthcare provider before diving into practice. Simple things like checking your daily posture and adjusting your pillow and mattress can also make a big difference. Don’t shy away from using props or any modifications because they can make bending and stretching easier.

Yoga shouldn’t cause you pain or discomfort, though it might make you a bit sore at the start. Communicate with your instructor to make any necessary adjustments in your yoga routine. When it comes to backbends, take it easy. Don’t push yourself into something that doesn’t feel right. Even a simple sequence like the Cobra pose can do more harm than good if not done correctly.

Should meditation be a part of your yoga sessions? 

If you’re new to meditation, guided sessions can be a good way to start. It’s all about being mindful, doing away with distractions, and dedicating quality time to yourself. It helps you reflect on your own thoughts. What I strongly believe is that we often have the answers within us but most of the time we just seek validation from external sources. Meditation helps release all that stress, trauma, anxiety and the constant mental turmoil between the past, present and future. If you’re just starting out, take baby steps with meditation. Even two to five minutes is a great beginning and you can build up from there.

Most of us know him as Bir Kaji aka B.K from the 2014 film Kabaddi starring Dayahang Rai, Nischal Basnet, and Rishma Gurung in leading roles. In 2015, he acted in Kabaddi Kabaddi, the sequel of Kabaddi, for which he was nominated for best actor in a comic role. His most recent film ‘Jaari’ became one of the highest-grossing Nepali films. Bijay Baral, who made his movie debut in 2013 with Chhadke, is known for his impeccable comic timing and his ability to emote through his expressions. In a conversation with Cilla Khatry of ApEx, Baral spoke about his love for acting, the things he has learned in his journey as an artist, and how being a sidekick works to his advantage. 

What do you think is the importance of stories in our society? 

Stories are important to change how people think and perceive things. Everyone has a story and every story will resonate with someone, somewhere. Every society has different forms of storytelling, be it theater, movies, literature, etc. In Nepal, I believe the most important form of storytelling is conversations that happen in public spaces, especially in rural areas. 

Sometimes, I go to Patan Durbar Squares and see elderly men and women engrossed in heated debates or whispered chats. Sharing your experience and emotions is the most impactful form of storytelling. Another great form of storytelling that makes people think and introspect is forum theater as it engages spectators to take the story forward and even change its course. 

How has Nepali cinema and theater evolved over the years? 

As someone who has spent 15 years in theater and 10 years in cinema, I believe Nepali theater and cinema both have a lot of potential. We are investing in good scripts and telling relevant stories. Nepal is rich in culture and language and that brings diversity to our narratives. Filmmakers like Nabin Subba, Deepak Rauniyar, Abinash Bikram Shah, and Min Bham are paving the way for global recognition. There is a lot of effort being put into making good cinema. 

Theater too has evolved given the limited infrastructure and resources. Many theater groups are doing amazing work. Mandala Theater recently sent 16 students, on a fully-funded program, to conduct theater classes, workshops, and stage shows all over Nepal. When Shabana Azmi was in Nepal, she was surprised to see how wonderfully theaters were operating in Nepal. We are doing the best we can with what we have. 

As an artist, how do you prepare for a role? Who is your role model? 

When I started, I didn’t understand acting. I thought I was acting in every role. I thought I was a good actor. But as time went by, you could say it gave me the maturity to understand what acting requires. Now, I focus on the character and try to understand it as much as I can through research and study. I want to comprehend the character’s psychology, emotions, traits, and behavior patterns before I start a role. 

As far as role models are concerned, I mostly take inspiration from Bollywood actors who do the kind of roles I do or with whom I seem to have physical similarities. The works of actors like Nana Patekar and Irfan Khan have taught me a lot. But I generally don’t like the idea of having a role model and aspiring to be like someone because that way you lose your unique identity. You become a replica of someone else.

What has been the biggest challenge for you as an actor and how have you overcome it?

I’m not well-versed in different cultures and that limits the kind of characters and roles I can take up. Sometimes, my personality also poses a challenge. For instance, in Dimag Kharab I took on an aggressive role. Not only was it different from the kind of fun-loving characters I usually portray, but it was also the opposite of how I am in real life. So, I had to work hard to be believable. The only way to overcome challenges in acting, I believe, is by not taking yourself too seriously as an actor. I try to be a director’s actor when I’m shooting for a film because cinema is a director’s vision. 

What are some of the lessons you have learned in your journey? What do you consider to be your valuable skills? 

The most valuable lesson I have learned is not to be overconfident and overambitious. While confidence and ambitions are nice, too much of either, I believe, will lead to your downfall. It will make you narcissistic and you will lose the ability to think critically. I have learned that as an actor you must be ready to work hard but you mustn’t have a lot of expectations on how the audience will perceive you or your work. All you can do is be honest and true to yourself and your craft. 

I’m someone who likes to talk. I enjoy talking to people. This makes me approachable and, if I might say so myself, likable to a certain extent. Professionally, I think it works in my favor and I consider it an asset. On a personal level, I’m not sure my wife appreciates it very much. She fears I will say random things and offend people (laughs).

Talent or training, which of these two factors is more important to be an actor?

Training prepares you. It gives you the confidence to get on stage or in front of the camera. Back in my village, before I got into acting, I would do caricature. I had a flair for it. But my talent would not have gotten me this far if I hadn’t undergone several acting workshops and courses after I came to Kathmandu. Training gives you the techniques required to become a good actor. Acting is reacting and, for that, you need to observe what’s going on, be emotionally ready to respond, and do that in character. Training teaches you all that and more. Training will also help you transition from one character to another with ease. 

How do you react to criticism? 

I’m human so when someone criticizes my work, especially when I’ve worked hard for a role, I get hurt and a little offended. A little part of me gets angry even though I don’t show it. But I realize feedback is necessary if I want to grow as an actor. I’m generally not the main character in a play or a movie. So, I’m usually not targeted by trolls or receive hateful comments. But there have been times when people haven’t appreciated my work and have told me never to do certain roles again. I’ve taken it in my stride. Comments, both good and bad, can be motivational. I try to channel them into good energy that I will then pour into my next project. 

Do you enjoy reading? 

I prefer reading short stories to long novels. They cater to my imagination. I find I can conjure up images clearly in my head when I’m reading a short story rather than when I’m reading longer fiction. Honestly, I read more scripts than books, and script reading takes time and dedication. But I love Upendra Subba’s poetry and constantly find myself picking up his works. But I must admit that I’m a bit lazy and that I could and should read more.

What projects are you working on next? 

I can’t say for sure which movies I will be a part of but I’m reading a lot of scripts and trying to decide which projects to take on. I have been fortunate enough to have a lot of movie offers come my way. It gives me the boost I need to keep working. One thing I’m trying to do more of this year is theater. We will soon be going to the National School of Drama in New Delhi, India, with a play that’s being directed by Bijay Karki. I’ll also be involved in quite a few plays being produced by Mandala Theater because I want to hone my acting skills and theater is the best way to do that.