As someone who loves and has a passion for all kinds of sports, it is no surprise that Radhakrishnan Sreenivasan is a Sports Broadcaster with a national channel.
With his experience of over 16 years, he is known for his valuable insights and is a reliable voice in the Indian sports ecosystem. From Cricket World Cup to Champions League football to Pro Kabaddi League, Radhakrishnan Sreenivasan loves sport and therefore is comfortable switching from one sport to another.
In a tete-a-tete with Social Samosa,
Sreenivasan shares his passion for public speaking, staying relevant, skills required for a presenter and more.
Looking back, where did it all begin?
If I think about it, public speaking has been my forte since school. I was an enthusiastic participant at oratorical competitions and won quite a few of them. In fact, I was the Cultural Secretary at my school and the Literary and Debating Treasurer of my college in Chennai. In addition to my passion for public speaking, I was also passionate sportsperson and I think the blend helped me pave my way.
What was the major turning point?
Without any doubt, my first day at work. I am a Physics graduate who has an MBA in Marketing. I landed a well-paying job at a prestigious pharmaceutical company and thought that I had it all figured out. only to realize on the first day that this is not what I want to pursue for the rest of my life. This catalysed my thinking and I shifted gears to something I am more passionate about – to be a sports presenter.
What is your USP in this cluttered space? How does your content give you an edge?
My USP is my clarity of thought and the ability to present comprehensible content in more than one language, i.e. English and Tamil. I think, in this diverse market where we have different ways of communication, people perceive me as someone who is credible with his information/opinion. I have always believed it is important to present your thoughts without any bias and that’s kept me at good stead.
What are the skills you would highlight that need to be present in a broadcaster? How do you stay relatable to the audience?
Like I mentioned, clarity of thought and ability to present them in a manner that the audience can understand is very important. In addition to that, being fit, sharp in appearance and having a command over the language as well as content is very essential. Moreover, a dash of harmless and non-provocative humor can also do wonders as a presenter.
How do you maintain editorial objectivity with the diverse sports platforms on your platter?
There is huge variation when it comes to preferences. However, it is essential to forgo that when you get in front of the camera. The audience perceives you as someone who gives credible information and expects you to call it as it is.
Therefore, bringing in “bias” is almost a breach of trust. I think it’s important, to be honest across every medium as you are not here to please everyone. That simply isn’t possible.
You need to be factually spot on and back up your arguments. I have never tried to sensationalize things.
One instance/experience that made it all worthwhile
Oh, there are plenty! In fact, every moment is worth it. I am living a dream, and my passion is my profession. What more can someone ask for? Since I cherish every second of my work, it is impossible for me to choose a favourite moment.
If not a sports presenter, you would be?
A school or college professor teaching my favourite subjects- History and Civics. Initially, history didn’t hold my interest but gradually, I realized that understanding your history and being civilized is perhaps the two most important areas that we need to stress on.
Understanding your past gives you a sense of being and Civics helps you understand the social and political framework that you live and breathe every day.
Apart from that, I would also like to be an enthusiastic member of the Indian education board and help shape the academic structure for our children.
On the other hand, travelling is also something that is very close to my heart and I would like to represent the Indian tourism sector as the country is bursting with the beauty that remains untapped.
A day in your life….
It shouldn’t be surprising but playing and talking about sports is a huge part of my everyday life. I play indoor and outdoor sports and have a special knack for FIFA on my X Box.
Apart from that, I am a big foodie and you can also find me trying new dishes every day. Spending time with my family or reading up on history and finance are also some things that I enjoy doing during time off.
Message/tips for upcoming presenters
Hard work, punctuality, and respect for colleagues who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make you and the show look good.
Your Favorite presenter
Gary Lineker
Armed with passion, experience and his knowledge about sports, RK is a credible multilingual versatile host who desires to continue creating and delivering quality content across different platforms.
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