1. As a second-generation entrepreneur, what changes have you brought into your family’s businesses, regarding your outlook and approaches? What legacy lessons do you hope to hand down from one generation to the next?
– As a second-generation entrepreneur, I’ve blend tradition and innovation. This has enabled me to keep high level of integrity values and relationships, which are the basis of our family business. I’ve tried to incorporate design, quality, modern technologies and sustainable practices to meet contemporary market trends. My approach has been more client-focused, ensuring that we have a grasp and anticipate client needs. This is something that has kept us ahead in the hyper-competitive real estate industry. The legacy I hope to pass on is that this culture will continue—a respect for time-honoured principles with the courage to embrace changes and innovative ideas.
2. Ekatva Group is credited with injecting modernity and ushering in a new era of progress in Thane’s real estate and business landscape. What inspired you to focus on Wagle Estate?
– There were several important reasons why we decided to concentrate our attention on Wagle Estate. Primarily, its strategic location that provides excellent connectivity to Mumbai, reducing traveling time. In a city where time is a critical asset, the ability to commute efficiently is a major advantage. Apart from BKC and some pockets of Airoli there is no other Central Business District (CBD) in whole MMR region than Wagle estate. We realized that Thane required an organized commercial place like this due to both working population in Thane and surrounding areas. There are massive residential developments taking place in the city as well as Ghodbunder Road meant for all corporates, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), based in Thane and nearby suburbs. We recognized that it lacked quality commercial buildings relevant to modern business requirements.
Wagle Estate was once richly industrialized so, it only needed transformation into vibrant commercial center. In addition to serving practical needs of businesses these spaces also foster innovation and growth environments. By focusing on Wagle Estate we have tried to fill the gap between the quality of available commercial infrastructure and pave way for making it a leading business district.
3. How would you say that the market for commercial real estate has evolved over the last few years?
– The commercial real estate sector has changed a lot in the past few years indicating how business is conducted and what the priorities are when it comes to work space. In addition to some well-known co-working spaces, many small and medium entrepreneurs and professionals who were previously reluctant to own their own offices have now started setting up their own premises. Office users have come to realize the need for open spaces, natural light, good air circulation, enough parking for self and team members. There is emphasis on well managed and professionally run commercial buildings.
This trend is complemented by growing emphasis on sustainability whereby organizations seek environmental friendly buildings which align with their corporate values. Additionally, the demand for digitalization and smart buildings has grown, with technology integration becoming a critical factor in the value of commercial properties.
From an investment perspective, this has made commercial real estate more attractive due to its ability to generate higher rental yields compared with residential properties. Investors have realized that strategically placed commercial spaces provide steady and sometimes better returns, which makes it ideal for long term investments. At Ekatva Group we have embraced these trends ensuring that our projects are not only modern and sustainable but also positioned such that they deliver strong returns for investors.
4. Adding value is a core belief for Ekatva Group. How do you strive to add value to each Ekatva project?
– Value addition is our guiding principle at Ekatva Group, this extends beyond provision of quality products to improving the entire customer experience. This is done by incorporating unique designs, prime locations, as well as ensuring top-notch construction standards. Our approach is customer-first and thus we listen keenly to our clients and customize our offerings to suit their needs. Moreover, we are focused on creating sustainable and out-of-the-box spaces that not only serve today’s interests but also add value for a long time into the future. In this way, each Ekatva project supports the community and enriches the landscape of the city.
5. How do you balance architectural excellence with an excellent consumer experience in your commercial projects?
– To strike a balance between good architecture and a great user experience is our central philosophy at Ekatva Group. We believe in good architecture and design that is not only pleasing aesthetically but also functional to use. To achieve this equilibrium, we closely collaborate with leading architects and designers for coming up with innovative yet practical spaces. The need of users takes precedence—this may involve maximizing daylight or optimizing space utilization or even integrating modern amenities. It is essential for us that the spaces we create leave an indelible mark on user’s minds while enhancing their productivity and satisfaction.
6. How important do you think human relationships are in ensuring sustained success in the modern business world?
– The business world keeps surviving through human relations. We at Ekatva Group strongly focus on building and maintaining good relationship with our clients, suppliers, subcontractors, affiliates and employees. Trust, transparency and mutual respect are the elements that drive our interaction. It also offers a personal touch that cannot be replicated in an increasingly digitized and automated world where emotions, needs and aspirations of people are as important as ever. It is through prioritizing relationships that we create a network of trust not only for commercial success but also for long term sustainability.
7. How do you foresee the future of the real estate market in Mumbai, Thane, and beyond?
– The future of real estate market in Mumbai, Thane and beyond looks bright particularly with continued urbanization as well as development of infrastructure in these regions. Demand for both residential as well commercial property will remain robust within Mumbai city mainly because it is a financial center. Thane’s strategic positioning coupled with ongoing growth of its infrastructure makes it even more appealing to companies or individuals who want to live there or do business. Beyond these areas the trend will mostly be inclined towards smart cities and integrated townships focusing on sustainability, connectivity and quality of life. By continuing innovation to meet changing demands from clients, Ekatva Group is set to contribute towards development in this direction while reaping benefits out of such growth prospects.
8. Philanthropy is deeply engrained in the ethos of Ekatva Group. What inspired this and what cause do you support?
– Philanthropy at Ekatva Group is inspired by the belief that businesses have a responsibility to give back to the communities they serve. This ethos has been a guiding principle since our inception, driven by a desire to make a positive impact beyond just business success. We support a range of causes, including education, healthcare, and community development, as these areas are crucial for the overall well-being and progress of society. Our philanthropic efforts are not just about financial contributions but also about actively engaging with communities to create meaningful and lasting change.
