The GenNext series: Shubhankar Kesharwani

Where are you based?

I’m based in Navi Mumbai.

Describe your course.

The course I’m currently pursuing is a STEM course, specifically a Bachelor of Engineering in Printing and Packaging Technology from SIES Graduate School of Technology.

What is print’s USP?

Print’s USP, for me, is how a plain sheet of paper is turned into whatever we dare imagine.

Where do you see the print in the next five years?

In five years’, I predict that the printing industry is going to shift towards sustainability and focus primarily on its carbon footprint.

One webinar you attended which you thought was terrific …

None of the webinars I’ve attended so far, have piqued my interest.

A print or packaging item you use regularly that impressed you?

The latest packaging for some chocolates which comes with re-sealing is interesting.

A recent comment about print/packaging which is your mantra?

Packaging is 80% of the product’s impression.

Which is your favourite piece of paper? Why so?

I quite like the paper that magazines are printed.

How many print/packaging firms are there in your city?

There are at least 10 print firms in my locality.

One factory you have visited? What is the first thing you notice when you walked around in the factory?

The first thing I notice, and absolutely love while visiting any printing press, is the smell of ink, and, solvents. Also, the thing I’ve noticed at every factory I’ve visited is how sterile the press room is kept.

What’s your favourite item of print or packaging?

My favourite printed article is a passport.

Which is the most innovative packaging that you have come across?

The packaging for Tork Kratos R, an EV motorcycle. It comes packaged as a scale model or toy.

What is your take on sustainable packaging?

Sustainable has to become the norm, instead of the novelty it currently is.

One thing the print/packaging industry should do to convey a solid sustainability message?

Include more recycled substrates in their roster.

One trivia about print/packaging which no one knows?

The Neanderthals used to smush bugs and insects to get colours on their cave paintings.

Is there a print or packaging legend in the industry you would like to have 60 seconds with?

I’d like to have a minute with the legendary people who run RBI’s presses and literally, note chaapte hai.