I recently attended a thought-provoking conversation at the Rotary Club of Bombay, thanks to an invitation from Honorary Joint Secretary and friend, Akhil Sanghi. The evening featured Orhan Awatramani—better known as “Orry”—in a lively exchange with Priya Tanna. Orry’s unique path to success and his unconventional take on personal branding provided new insights that left a lasting impact. Here are a few lessons I, Sampath Iyengar, took away from this engaging discussion.
1. Authenticity is Key to Personal Branding
Orry’s journey highlights the power of embracing authenticity. He’s built his brand not by fitting a mold, but by leaning into his personality and quirks. His message to all of us: Success can look different for everyone, and being genuine often connects with audiences more than trying to fit a traditional role.
2. The Quiet Power of Daily Discipline
Behind Orry’s lively persona is a routine grounded in discipline. He shared how small, consistent habits—like making his bed each morning and dedicating time to fitness—anchor his day. His advice reminded me that these “small wins” are what often sustain us in the long run, fostering resilience and focus.
3. Turning Everyday Living into a Career
Orry’s take on work was eye-opening. Instead of following a conventional path, he has transformed his lifestyle into his career. Engaging with people, creating content, and sharing authentic moments have allowed him to turn his life into his work. This idea of “living as a career” challenges the notion that a traditional job or role must define success.
4. Embrace Failure and Humor
Orry’s candidness about his missteps was refreshing. He fosters genuine connections with his followers by using humour and sharing his vulnerabilities. For him, failures are not setbacks but part of the journey. This approach reminded me that it’s okay to embrace and share our struggles, as they are often the most relatable parts of our story.
5. Community and Networking Open New Perspectives
This event was a testament to the value of being part of a community like the Rotary Club of Bombay. Connecting with diverse voices through events like these broadens our perspectives and encourages us to see success through a new lens. Orry’s journey reminded me of the importance of staying connected and open to new ideas.
Reflections from the Rotary Club of Bombay
Attending this event offered me, Sampath Iyengar, new insights into modern success and personal branding. Orry’s journey may be unique, but the lessons he shared apply to anyone looking to redefine success on their terms. With discipline, authenticity, and a community like the Rotary, we can all carve out a path that’s true to who we are.