Similar to how, runners experience runner’s high, do swimmers experience swimmer’s high?
Absolutely. When the adrenaline and dopamine take over, I lose myself to the sport. Swimming is second nature to me. When I’m in the deep blue sea and see the blue sky above me, I am lost to the world. I am reminded of how insignificant and superficial our problems are, we are all just drops of water in this ocean. It really reminds us to look on the brighter side and appreciate the simple things in life.

What are your recommendations for advancement of sport in this country?
My parents were a major support and I would not be here today without them. I think the most crucial step is for parents and family members to support children to pursue a sport. You guys are so lucky, to have a school with so many facilities and sport equipment at your fingertips! There are so many who long for these opportunities. We live in a country where sports are considered a hobby while more conventional streams are pursued, like becoming a doctor, or an engineer. The administration should work towards increasing awareness, allocating funds and treating sports not as a hobby but as a profession.

What are your goals for the future, in terms of your swimming career and beyond.
Everyday a sportsman grows older, and I feel it in my bones. I set smaller goals and my recovery period increases with every swim. But I will swim until my body gives way. Beyond swimming, I want to expand my institute. The Open Water Swimming Foundation is dedicated to developing a community of open water swimmers and promoting sustainability by sensitising local communities about the importance of water body protection and how to revive water bodies that surround them.

Are there any other areas or causes you are passionate about, outside of swimming?
Nature has provided us with everything we could ever want. Bengaluru is called the city of lakes; and despite, that look at the state of our lakes! I believe that it is imperative that we learn to respect and preserve the natural beauty of our lakes, rivers, and oceans. I want to create social awareness of the importance of marine life, their environment, and respect for their space by reaching out to the younger generation and educating them on the importance of a clean & green environment.

Considering that the younger generation is not that keen on playing sports and prefer virtual gaming, as a professional athlete, how do you believe you can inspire children today to take to sports as enthusiastically as you did?
Children today are more exposed to the world than I, or my generation ever was. With so many opportunities, why let them get out of your grasp? Take whatever comes at you and do the best with it. The mind is your harness and the world your oyster, let go of your inhibitions and you can achieve whatever you set your eyes on. With hard work, you can become the best version of yourself. As we grow older, we find ourselves fighting many mental battles and sports provides a respite for your mind and body. It’s all about finding yourself, whether it’s in the middle of the ocean or on a track field.