Let’s talk about writing. Seriously.
Whether you’re a seasoned storyteller or just starting out, writing is a superpower. It’s how we shape ideas, spark change, and leave a mark. Forget the noise around ChatGPT, Bard, or any of those LLMs—they’re tools, not magic wands. Real magic lies in crafting words that resonate.

Who’s talking?
I’m Charles. Co-founder of Founding Fuel, where media meets learning, and co-author of The Aadhaar Effect: Why The World’s Largest Identity Project Matters. I pen two columns for Hindustan Times, and my bylines pop up in top newspapers, journals like the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), and in Shaastra, the think-tank creation of IIT Madras.

With nearly three decades of chasing stories, I now thrive at the crossroads of business, technology, and public policy.These aren’t just topics—they’re conversations I host, panels I moderate with visionaries, and ideas I dissect in public forums.

What’s my favorite side hustle?
Teaching writing. From C-suite executives at major corporations to undergrads at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, I’m on a mission to help people discover their authentic voice.

My adventures so far?
I’ve worn some pretty cool hats. As Managing Editor of Forbes India and Editor of ForbesLife, I’ve seen the sharp end of luxury and ambition. Before that, I shaped narratives as National Technology Editor and National Business Editor at The Times of India.

But the adventure began in my twenties when German media powerhouse Vogel Burda launched CHIP, a tech magazine that became a phenomenon in India. They made me Editor (yes, in my twenties!) and gave me the reins to set up their India operations. It was a whirlwind—working across newsrooms in Europe and Asia, building teams, and picking up accolades like the Madhu Valluri Award for Excellence in Journalism and the Polestar Award for Excellence in Business Journalism.

Degrees? Sure.
I hold a Masters in Economics from Mumbai University and an MBA in Finance from MET, Mumbai. But honestly? My biggest lessons came while navigating the messy, exhilarating world of business journalism. That journey started with a BSc from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, and a deep curiosity that still keeps me up at night.

Off-duty Charles?
I’m a bookworm with eclectic tastes and a dreamer who loves the outdoors. You’ll find me walking, cycling, or at the gym. And one day, I swear, I’ll make time to watch all the movies on my list.

Why connect?
Because stories matter. Whether it’s crafting one or living one, I’d love to hear yours—and share a few of mine.