Mahindra Group CFO keeps a tab on what he eats, reserves cheat days for a 'vada pav' treat

VS Parthasarathy, Mahindra Group CFO, on how he ensures that he remains in sound emotional and physical shape.

Body
“I try to get a minimum of eight hours sleep, but sometimes I get seven. Most days, I hit the bed by 10 pm and get up at 6 am. I try to runfi ve days a week and play badminton on weekends. My exercise regimen changes according to seasons and I try to do different things, like Tai Chi, Pilates, yoga and cross training. I end up doing some of them always and all of them some days. Sundays are generally for rest. I try to run one halfmarathon a year for a cause. I am particular about my diet. As you grow older, you become mindful of what and how much you eat. I am a vegetarian. I believe in eating good food, rich in fibre but in small portions. My diet plan is meticulously charted. It’s rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts. I try to avoid sweets and oily food. On cheat days, however, I can’t resist vada pav, especially if it is served with red chutney.”


Mind
“Laughter is the best medicine for a healthy mind. ‘Child-like without being childish’ is my motto. “I tend to escape the monotony of life by taking refuge in my library. I particularly like mythology, and have read the Ramayana in several languages. An Amish Tripathi or a Devdutt Pattanaik book is always at hand. Besides these, Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged, Thomas Hardy’s 'Far from the Madding Crowd' and some of Shakespeare’s and Oscar Wilde’s works are eternal favourites. “Travel lifts my spirits too. I have been to almost all Indian states and over 50 countries. From Nawabi Lucknow to Colonial Kolkata, I like it all. Among global destinations, I like Switzerland. I also like the US for its variety and the fact that each city has a story to recount. “For a happy life, it’s always better to look at the glass half full. I focus my energy on positive thoughts and on keeping it simple. That keeps me from worrying.”

Soul
“I believe God is in the small things. I try to do a little bit of charity incognito, give some bread to the hungry, shake hands with somebody who is least expecting it, like a security guard. It is by giving that I receive inner peace and that is what satisfies my soul.”