Under my pillow

Call him meticulous, as NITIN RAKESH, CEO of Motilal Oswal Asset Management, is not your average impulsive geek who cannot resist the lure of a fancy gadget at the store. Detailed research followed by a personal estimation of the gadget is what Rakesh usually undertakes before he invests in his gizmos. Yet when it comes to showing off his gadgets, he does not hold back. In fact, his favourite gimmick is placing a pen-like contraption on the table to let his colleagues be awed by it — because it is a clock, laser and radio all rolled into one.

Is there a gadget that you cannot keep yourself away from?
My BlackBerry mobile phone is perhaps the most used gadget, so much so that I have taken to sleeping with it under my pillow. The BlackBerry chat function on the mobile has me hooked completely, as it is a platform to keep me connected with friends across the globe.

Is there any gadget that holds you in awe?
Although the list is long, presently it will be the new Sony Vaio Pocket PC. It is so thin and tiny, making it perfect for road-runners like me. I am tempted to replace my laptop with it.

What is the most stylish gadget in your home, car or office?
The GPS in my car, which is really fun to use on Mumbai roads, especially when you take a wrong turn down a small Bandra lane.

Do you still have the first gadget you bought?
I still have a hand-held black-and-white screen video game, though it doesn’t work. It was a gift from an uncle and I hope to get it fixed soon.

Do you have a secret, expensive gadget indulgence?
It would have to be the state-of-the-art Bose V30 mini theatre system. I have had my eyes on that for a while now. I’m just waiting for a good offer to come along.

Have you ever bought a gadget that could not justify its worth?
No, never. I do a lot of research before I buy any gadget. Besides, I believe that just as beauty lies in the eye of the beholder, the worth of a gadget lies in the eyes of the owner.

How often do you help people with their gadgets?
I recently helped my nephew figure out his new Sony camera and now he calls me Sony uncle.

What’s the longest time you have spent understanding and mastering a gadget?
I guess not more than 24 hours, as I usually get used to it sooner.

What would be the perfect gizmo gift for your friends?
I would give a BlackBerry mobile phone , so that we are all wired and available.

What’s next on your shopping list?
My wife says I buy too many gadgets! A Blu-ray DVD player is next on the list.