"I believe that food and travel have the power to connect us all and that every bite and every destination has a story to tell"
1. Can you share your professional journey and experiences?
I have worked in the corporate world for 18 years, starting with a CA internship from 1996 to 1998, but I realized it wasn't my passion. I then completed an Executive Master's in International Trade (EMIT) from IIFT, hoping to pursue a career in international trade. However, I needed to get the right opportunity. I joined Maharaja Appliances in sales, followed by stints at Hindustan Lever in Mumbai as a Territory Sales Officer, Airtel in Mumbai and Delhi, Vodafone, Get IT Infomedia, and finally Reliance Jio in Delhi as a Rio Centre Manager. After leaving Reliance Jio, I started my own startup, which didn't succeed, and then began traveling, leading to the creation of Visa2Explore.
2. How has your national award nomination impacted your work?
The nomination has not affected my work directly, but it has recognized YouTubers/Instagrammers as part of mainstream media, acknowledging their influence and independent opinions. This recognition has given me a sense of validation and encouragement to continue creating content
3. What factors do you consider when choosing a travel destination?
I consider several factors, including weather, climate, local food, sightseeing opportunities, historical significance, and unvisited places. I prioritize exploring new destinations and experiencing different cultures. Recently, I visited Lahaul and Pangi Valley, and I'm planning to visit Kutch in Gujarat, Mizoram, Tripura, and Manipur in the future, as I haven't been to these states yet.
4. What challenges do you face while traveling and creating content?
Language barriers in southern states are a significant challenge, as I'm not fluent in local languages. To overcome this, I hire local drivers who can help me communicate with the locals. Another challenge is keeping my content fresh and unique. I overcome this by showcasing unconventional aspects of each place, like local food, heritage, and history, and trying to think about places in a 360-degree format. For example, when I visited Chanderi, I published a 40-minute episode showcasing not only its famous silk but also its food, heritage, and history.
5. How do you stay ahead of trends in your content creation?
I don't follow trends or try to create viral content. Instead, I focus on creating helpful resources that stand the test of time. Our videos are recorded in 4K, making them suitable for large screens, and we try to provide valuable information that viewers can use when planning their trips.
6. What advice do you have for aspiring creators?
My advice is to explore India's diverse culture, food, and nuances, and share your experiences with your audience. Be patient, and remember that there's a vast market waiting to be tapped. Don't try to follow trends or copy others; instead, find your unique voice and showcase your passion. With time and effort, you'll build a loyal audience.
Bio:
I am Harish Bali, a food and travel enthusiast with a global following! With 247,000 Instagram followers and 1.7 million YouTube subscribers, they share their culinary adventures and travel escapades. Their food blog features recipes, restaurant reviews, and cooking techniques, while their travel blog takes readers on a visual journey to exotic destinations. [Name] inspires home cooks and foodies alike, and their travel stories transport readers to new cultures and hidden gems. Join them on their gastronomic adventures and get ready to be inspired by flavors, sights, and stories from around the world!
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