Vivek Oberoi, a renowned Bollywood actor, has successfully transitioned into the world of business, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit. In an exclusive interview with LiveMint’s Sounak Mukhopadhyay, the actor-turned-businessman shared insights into his career and entrepreneurial journey.
Favorite Genre and Experience in Bollywood
When asked about his favorite genre, Vivek mentioned that it’s difficult to choose because the role within a script and its complexity often determine his enjoyment. While he enjoys working in all genres, he finds comedies the most fun and light-hearted. On the other hand, action films and darker roles, though challenging, provide him with the opportunity to expand his acting skills.
The South Indian Cinema Experience
Having worked across all four South Indian languages, Vivek shared that the cinema culture in South India is unique. He praised the filmmakers for their creativity, especially in Malayalam cinema, where they compensate for lower budgets with detailed screenplay construction. He also emphasized the professionalism of South Indian cinema, noting that the commitment to filmmaking is evident from the very beginning of the day.
The OTT Revolution and Acting Journey
Vivek Oberoi was one of the first Bollywood stars to explore OTT platforms, starting with Inside Edge. He described the rise of OTT as the biggest turning point in the entertainment industry, providing a platform for more creative storytelling. He noted that OTT allows for episodic storytelling, offering actors more time to explore complex character arcs compared to films. Vivek believes that OTT platforms have democratized opportunities for actors, writers, and filmmakers, enabling them to showcase their talents.
Cricket and Business Ventures
Vivek’s love for cricket is well-known, with the actor supporting various cricket ventures. His company, BNW Developments, sponsored the India Masters in the International Masters League, where India clinched victory. Vivek expressed his excitement for the IPL, mentioning his firm’s partnership with Starzplay and Noon for broadcasting the tournament in the UAE.
From Movies to Boardrooms: Entrepreneurship Journey
Vivek’s venture into entrepreneurship began from a young age when he was exposed to business during summer breaks with his father. He explained that business and creativity aren’t separate; they both require value creation, negotiation, and financial responsibility. He believes that actors, with their visibility, can leave a lasting legacy if they make meaningful contributions to society.
Entering the Luxury Real Estate Market
Vivek’s entry into the luxury real estate market in the UAE was inspired by the region’s position as a hub for global luxury. He saw it as a market with exponential potential for innovative ideas, focusing on redefining luxury living in terms of aesthetics and long-term investment. His firm, BNW Developments, has achieved significant growth, reaching a valuation of AED 20 billion (₹45,000 crore) in under three years.
Solitario: A Sustainable Luxury Jewellery Brand
Vivek launched Solitario, a luxury jewellery brand focusing on sustainable and lab-grown diamonds. He believes that the future of luxury lies in ethical and environmentally friendly alternatives. Solitario combines exquisite craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to create jewellery that aligns with the growing demand for conscious luxury.
Investing in Education and Tech
Vivek has also invested in the education and tech sectors. He co-founded an education financing startup that provides collateral-free loans to institutions across India. His initiative, iScholar, aims to connect high-quality teachers with students using interactive online platforms, contributing to national education. He sees tech and education as powerful tools for bridging gaps and creating opportunities on a large scale.
Success, Purpose, and Impact
Vivek’s net worth of ₹1,200 crore reflects his dedication to “profit with purpose.” He believes in staying curious, taking smart risks, and adapting to new challenges. His entrepreneurial journey isn’t just about wealth but creating a meaningful impact. Vivek’s diversified ventures are a testament to his philosophy: build something meaningful, and success will follow.
