Indore-based leading Design School Arena Geeta Bhawan (HID) is one of the most trusted digital media education destinations across central India. Its Founder and CEO, Sanjay Khimesara, is such a name that, with his farsightedness and belief in the technological revolution, he decided to navigate the rare way of opening a Skill-Based Training Institute in the creative segment.
Initial Strides-
On asking what instigated the idea of starting an academic venture in a field not so popular at that time, Sanjay says, “after my Engineering and Management, my father-in-law initiated the idea of setting my foot into the sector. At that time, conventional courses were in high demand.” Sanjay felt that one of the biggest challenges our society faces is the need to employ the youth. The decision worked really well for Khimesara, but the reward was not easily achieved.
It was not so easy to be where Khimesara stands today. Obstructions were many, but the sheer dedication and belief in the idea set the ball rolling for Sanjay. “Few major difficulties faced include finding prospects, convincing them, finding faculty members and placements,” summons up Sanjay.
The defining moment–
On asking who he attributes the institute’s success to, Sanjay says, “it has always been my students who with their creativity, hard work and faith in the institute engrossed the multinational firms for recruitment.” After big firms noticed the student’s work, there was no looking back. Today, apprentices are working with top-quality organisations. Khimesara also helps Society through a student incubation center by developing digital content for police departments and other public welfare organizations.
The success recipe–
Today with almost every successful venture in films, television, advertisement and games, having alumni of the institute associated with them, the students are also new-age entrepreneurs and freelancers. Inquisitively when we ask the proud man about his secret recipe to success, humbly he reveals, “for an academic venture to be a success, it’s the student- mentor relation that plays an important role.” The strong industry and alumni connection plays a crucial role for our School team.
Sanjay believes that success has no shortcut. Perseverance towards your field is a must. He also says that keeping yourself alert and updated about anything new in your workspace always keeps you a step ahead.
Recognitions–
Sanjay is an active contributor to MandE Sector and has got dozens of recognitions, including the Golden Pixel Award as Backbone of AVGC Industry, Indian CSR Award, Indian Achiever Award, Top 100 Admired People in Education, Global Educational Influencers, Captain’s, Trailblazers and Icons of Education, Numerous Excellence Awards, Commendation and Appreciation Certificates etc.
18 alumni from his D-School have been part of Six Oscar Awarded Films for Outstanding Vfx and Four National Awarded films for Animation and VFX. During the past two decades, Sanjay was instrumental in bringing over 250 Global experts to inspire youth in Central India.
Love- other than animation
His passion for divulging his knowledge is so strong that Sanjay Khimesara spends hours online as an expert panel member, guiding the creative aspirants. He also loves to keep himself always updated with social networking sites.
Sanjay believes in his religion –Jainism, “I spend time exploring the religion and learning tattva Gyan. I also do Jainism way of meditation. This helps me calm down”.
Sanjay Khimesara is also the Core Committee member for ASIFA INDIA, a professional body recognised by UNESCO. It is devoted to developing film animation both as an art and an effective means of communication. He also volunteers his time for TASI and MP: AVGC-XR.
Sanjay is President of an Educational Society which provides Free Skilling and opportunities to youth in marginalised communities.
“My parents and wife Aekta are my backbones, “confides Sanjay. His wife contributes to the functioning of the Design School.
Future plans–
There is no stopping for this entrepreneur. After achieving so much he is still restless. He has much other accomplishment to fulfil. After the Design Institute, Khimesara is on his way to make Indore as hub for AVGC industry. His future plans include contribution in Skill development initiatives and to be a leading Training provider of Central India.
Indore is sure to see a lot more in animation and digital media in the coming years with Sanjay around.
Twenty five years ahead from today, the man who introduced animation to Indore, CEO of Horizon Institute of Design and Arena GBS dreams not only of taking animation to new heights but wants to create new opportunities for the youth of his state in this lucrative sector.
Alumni and Expert Speaks:
Video Messages from Experts and Alumni
Inspiring Creativity : Photos Gallery of few activities :-https://bit.ly/hidarena
