“Growing up in Thiruvannamalai but later settling in Chennai, I slowly became an athlete. I never wanted to lead a typical life like everyone else. The usual career paths of engineering, arts, or medicine didn’t appeal great or inspiring to me. I craved something more adventurous, something I had yet to discover.
One thing that always captivated me was the underwater world, so real yet hidden from our sight. When I was young, I found my inspiration in underwater documentaries. I decided to learn freediving. Despite initial reservations from my restrictive parents, they eventually saw my passion and allowed me to pursue diving as my profession. I started my training in Pondicherry, gaining valuable field experience.
College, to me, seemed less important. After completing my 12th grade & a one-year program in ecology nurturance, I shifted my focus entirely toward freediving. You know what – in the past, fishermen would dive deep to get pearls, they made a business out of it, too. Over time, diving evolved into a sport, with divers going to extreme depths, holding their breath for extended periods. The sport gained serious recognition in the last five years.
A trainer, my inspiration, Mr.Alex from Mauritius, taught me advanced techniques, training me continuously, making me the youngest freediving in India. The field in India was still emerging, and few people were into it. Even practices like training as a mermaid fell under the category of freediving.
As the sport was still emerging in India, I saw an opportunity to expand its reach and professional avenues, such as content creation, teaching, underwater filming, etc. Currently, I’m freelancing as a freediving instructor in Dubai. Moving here exposed me to different advanced techniques and practices, enhancing my skills.
The lack of trainers in India also drove my decision to come to Dubai. I aspired to receive more and reach greater heights and knew I needed further training. The recognition for freediving is gradually growing in Chennai as well.
I dream big to achieve greater things. I believe anyone can accomplish their dreams with the right determination. If I hadn’t been strong enough to tell the world that, “This is what I’m interested in, and I know I will achieve it someday”, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Remember, some things are not meant for everyone, and no generational practice must be followed. Your purpose and interests are yours alone. Take risks only when YOU believe in yourself, and when you know it, do it strongly and fearlessly.”