Ravi Chawla

A movie that inspires you…
I am greatly inspired by true stories, based on the lives of athletes and their feats. I liked Ford vs Ferrari. It is about passion, perseverance and never losing faith. The film expertly chronicles the era of racing, and Carroll Shelby and Ken Miles, who took a leap of faith and won with the Ford GT 40 at Le Mans in 1966.

...and a song?
The voice and lyrics of Teri Mitti from the movie Kesari by B Praak are hauntingly beautiful. It is a patriotic song, yet the tune and voice can be used to tell any story. I also get inspired by Ik Onkar, a Sikh ode sung in gurudwaras.

When anxiety sets in?
The best way is to calm down, let it out and then think it through. One must focus on doing what matters, even after an outburst. You need to be flexible, and be open to people and their suggestions.

Other ways to de-stress?
I play sports, listen to music, eat great food, spend time with family and friends or go to the spa. Sometimes, I write to myself. MS Dhoni inspires me with his calm demeanour, and his faith in talent and strategy. I often think of him in times of stress.

Lowest point in your life? How did you deal with it?
I lost my father when I was 11. Fortunately, my family and school teachers helped me through that. They gave me responsibilities that shaped my passion and gave me confidence. Work, love from family, and seeing good in people have always kept me going.

An anecdote or lesson you’d like to share?
My grandfather taught me to value every rupee, be honest and humble, and respect everyone.

Any quote or saying that inspires you?
Bruce Lee’s “The art of fighting without fighting” from the movie Enter the Dragon. Rabindranath Tagore’s Where the mind is without fear was our school prayer and I remember it even today, when I’m troubled.