A Chemical Engineer by education, Abhay Kewadkar's (MD of Tetrad Global Beverages) career started in 1984 with Champagne India. He has worked with many renowned and niche beverage and liquor brands.
Apart from professional pursuits, President of the Bangalore Wine Club and Director of the Wine Society of India (WSI) from 2009-2011, where he closely worked with Steven Spurrier, one of the most influential Wine Commentators in the world. With his excellent track record of creating value in setting up greenfield projects and taking them to a successful level of achievement, Abhay now looks forward to pursuing his entrepreneurial ambition and skills in varied business interests.
What excites you to go to work every morning?
After almost three decades of working for mega enterprises and international brands, I am today my own boss. To know that I chart the course of this journey along with my partner is what pushes me to get up and give my best each morning. Every day is a new challenge, new achievement and the prospect of something big on the horizon. Along with launching our own label of wine in collaboration with a 5th generation run French winery, we have also launched a 4-floor microbrewery. This is a completely new business for me and the thrill of starting a project like this at a time when the craft beer business is booming in India is totally unparalleled.
What do you like for breakfast?
Before I start my walk or exercise I have fruits as a pre-workout snack. I have eggs on alternate days and enjoy South Indian and Maharashtrian breakfast dishes. Breakfast is a very important meal for me as my dinners are very light. Dry fruits, nuts, and cornflakes complete my nutrient intake.
Any morning rituals like Yoga and Exercise?
My morning starts with stretching exercises. I love my morning walks and do 10,000 steps a day, 6 days a week and keep this routine even when I am travelling.
I also try to break the monotony by going for a swim or I hit the gym to do some weights etc.
How important is eight hours sleep for you?
7 hours sleep is extremely important for me and I make it a point to rest well, I avoid late nights on weekdays. If for some reason, I have not slept well in the night and in case of parties, I try to take a power nap in the afternoon. I like to be alert for all the meetings I attend even if I'm not the central speaker. I like to be focused always.
How do you spend your evening?
Evenings I try to catch up on reading, watching movies or documentaries. I also used to spend evenings on my Terrace with my pet and I miss him now.
We have a terrace garden and I constantly look at ways to improve it or add a few plants. Recently we started growing fruits and vegetables.