We had the good fortune of connecting with Deependra Dehariya and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Deependra, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Embarking on my gaming venture wasn’t just a decision; it was a passion-driven journey. The thought process was simple yet profound – I wanted to create a space where gaming enthusiasts could come together, share experiences, and, most importantly, have a blast in the virtual realms. It’s about turning a personal love for gaming into a community-driven adventure, connecting with like-minded individuals, and fostering a sense of belonging in the gaming world. Starting this business was about turning a passion into a shared experience that transcends the pixels on the screen while connecting to the humans looking at them!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is a tapestry woven with academia, authorship, and the relentless pursuit of gaming passion, which is a unique odyssey. Navigating the intricate realms of being an international student, an academic, and an author while cultivating a YouTube channel has been both challenging and enriching.

What sets me apart is the delicate balance I’ve struck between academia and gaming, crafting a narrative that unfolds not just on pages but also in the virtual worlds I explore. The academic journey, with its demands and pressures, posed challenges in carving out time for my gaming pursuits and YouTube endeavors. Yet, it’s precisely this challenge that fueled my determination to create content that resonates with a community passionate about both education and gaming.

Growing a YouTube channel while juggling academic commitments demanded resilience and strategic time management. Late nights turned into editing sessions, and weekends became a battleground between textbooks and gaming consoles. Each challenge became a lesson – a lesson in prioritizing, in staying authentic to my dual passions, and in understanding that success is a gradual, evolving process.

My proudest moments are not just the subscriber milestones (which is still a struggle as I climb slowly) but the connections forged with viewers who share the dual identity of being both gamers and academics. It’s the messages from international students who find solace in a shared journey that make the late nights and early mornings worth it.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know, it’s that passion knows no boundaries. Whether it’s acing an exam, crafting a novel, or clutching a victory in a virtual battlefield, each aspect of my journey is a testament to the belief that one can excel in diverse realms with dedication and love for what they do. My story is an invitation to embrace the unique, to celebrate the blend of academia and gaming, and to find strength in the intersection of diverse passions.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Absolutely! If my best friend were visiting Cincinnati, Ohio, I’d curate a week-long adventure blending the city’s rich culture, culinary delights, and vibrant atmosphere. Some of these are also on my list of places to visit, so I can enjoy them more with my friend.

Day 1-2: Explore Downtown
– Morning: Start with breakfast at Maplewood Kitchen and Bar for a hearty meal.
– Daytime: Wander through Fountain Square, soak in the urban vibes, and grab lunch at The Eagle for some fried chicken goodness.
– Afternoon: Head to the Cincinnati Art Museum for a dose of culture.
– Evening: Explore Over-the-Rhine, with dinner at Sotto for exquisite Italian cuisine.
– Night: Experience the lively nightlife at Rhinegeist Brewery.

Day 3-4: Nature and Adventure
– Morning: Enjoy breakfast at Taste of Belgium before heading to Eden Park for a peaceful morning stroll.
– Daytime: Visit the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.
– Afternoon: Lunch at The National Exemplar in Mariemont.
– Evening: Take a riverboat cruise on the Ohio River.
– Night: Experience the cozy atmosphere of Taft’s Ale House.

Day 5-6: Sports and Entertainment
– Morning: Grab breakfast at Sleepy Bee Café.
– Daytime: Tour the Great American Ball Park.
– Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at Moerlein Lager House.
– Evening: Catch a Cincinnati Reds game.
– Night: Explore the entertainment district at The Banks.

Day 7: Relaxation and Farewell
– Morning: Brunch at First Watch.
– Daytime: Visit Krohn Conservatory.
– Afternoon: Lunch at Terry’s Turf Club for a unique burger experience.
– Evening: Stroll along the riverfront and enjoy dinner at The Precinct.
– Night: Cap off the trip with drinks at 21c Museum Hotel’s rooftop bar.

Cincinnati offers a delightful mix of cultural experiences, culinary delights, and scenic spots, making it a perfect destination for an unforgettable week-long adventure!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely, without a doubt, my biggest shoutout and heartfelt gratitude goes to my incredible wife, Dr. Kruti Chaliawala. Her unwavering support, boundless love, and constant encouragement have been the driving force behind every success and every milestone in my journey. She’s not just my life partner; she’s my rock, my confidante, and my biggest cheerleader. Her belief in me has been the catalyst for reaching new heights, and I owe her a significant part of my journey’s success. She is the unsung hero in my story, and I couldn’t be more thankful for her presence in my life.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dknight263/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deependra-dehariya/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Dknight263

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dknight263

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTtKTm4L1ISy1Iak7ik828g

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