SITOOH Keynote by CK Kumaravel, Co-founder CMD of Natural Salon and Spa highlights bold thinking & adaptability

In his keynote at the third edition of South India Talks OOH, CK Kumaravel, Co-founder and CMD of Naturals Salon & Spa, spoke about the importance of learning, adapting, and rethinking in a fast-changing world. Using Nokia’s fall as an example, he explained how holding on to old ways of thinking can lead to failure. Instead, he encouraged everyone, especially business leaders, to focus on spotting future threats and new opportunities, rather than just relying on their current strengths.

He shared a personal story of how his father invented the idea of sachet packaging after a simple travel mistake. This small innovation made a big difference, showing how setbacks can lead to success when approached with curiosity and courage. For Mr. Kumaravel, real entrepreneurship isn’t about avoiding failure, it’s about bouncing back with energy and learning from every experience.

He also encouraged the audience to think big. Using the metaphor of a vessel holding rainwater, he said our goals are often limited by how big we allow ourselves to dream. By setting bold, even “unreasonable” goals, we open the door to progress and innovation. He sees India as a country full of promise, especially with its large population and rapid digital growth, but tapping into this potential requires vision and smart, tech-enabled business models.

To succeed today, he said, adaptability is not a luxury, it’s a must. He compared this to nature, where dinosaurs went extinct but cockroaches survived due to their ability to adapt. He also stressed the need to step out of our comfort zones and keep learning. One key life lesson he shared was taking full responsibility for your life and believing in yourself, even when others don’t.

Mr. Kumaravel closed his talk by saying that courage is one of the most important qualities in a leader. More than talent or resources, it’s the willingness to take action, work hard, and stay the course that leads to real success. His message was clear: embrace change, aim high, believe in yourself, and lead with courage to make a real impact in today’s world.