In a world increasingly shaped by hyper specialization, the idea of a polymath feels both rare and revolutionary. Nevertheless, polymaths (those who pursue expertise across multiple disciplines) continue to influence innovation and creativity. It is this very idea that sparked a compelling episode of LUBM Smart Talks, featuring the farsighted serial entrepreneur Aswin Sarang. As the founder and CEO of Reliable Robotics, Dubai’s first robotics company, Aswin brings a unique blend of engineering mastery, entrepreneurial instinct, and creative spirit.
Our host, Vriddhii Kumthekar, explored what it truly means to be a polymath in today’s professional world. Together, they dove into the crossroads of curiosity, survival, creativity, and the importance of lifelong learning.
Understanding the Polymath
While many people pursue careers within fixed paths, polymaths defy boundaries. Moreover, they embrace diverse interests and actively seek knowledge across disciplines. Aswin draws parallels with historical figures such as Leonardo Da Vinci; celebrated for both his art and engineering, and Pythagoras, who explored not only mathematics but also astrology.
Importantly, Aswin points out that in today’s world, the rise of AI systems demands multidisciplinary knowledge. Thus, those who learn across fields are better equipped to build systems, solve problems, and stay relevant.
The Story of Reliable Robotics
Reliable Robotics was not built overnight. Instead, it emerged from Aswin’s strong university friendships within the mechatronics sector. Consequently, it now stands as one of the most reliable robotics companies in the Middle East region.
Aswin’s path, like most meaningful ones, came with challenges. Nevertheless, his desire to keep learning pushed him toward unique experiences. He openly discusses exploring his creative and healing side. Beyond his role as a CEO, Aswin is a certified sound therapist, NLP master practitioner, and life coach. Moreover, he sees no contradiction in blending engineering and spirituality. Instead, he believes these diverse experiences enrich both worlds.
However, he also acknowledges the societal expectations that often discourage such exploration. People are frequently pressured to choose one path. Aswin challenges this notion, encouraging listeners to embrace multiplicity as a strength rather than a weakness. Perhaps the best part of the podcast is to see how he still hungers to learn and discover new things.
Entrepreneurial Realities: Wearing Many Hats
Aswin shares how being a polymath isn’t always a luxury; it’s a necessity. He highlights how many young entrepreneurs start with limited funding and a big dream. For them, building a startup means wearing multiple hats. That includes leading operations, running marketing, and managing finances.
In Aswin’s case, his core background in engineering wasn’t enough to scale his business. Therefore, he taught himself the remaining corporate skills. Eventually, he even developed marketing and accounting software tools to run Reliable Robotics efficiently. These tools, designed in-house, now handle significant business functions. Hence, automation was both a solution and a skill set.
Why Curiosity Matters
According to Aswin, curiosity is the foundation of the polymath mindset. Additionally, it fosters a sustainable outlook that encourages long term growth rather than short term gains.
He and Vriddhii explore how people remain locked in daily routines. Thus, they fail to explore their deeper potential or engage with unfamiliar subjects. However, Aswin urges listeners to pursue new interests and embrace intellectual exploration without fear. He believes that expanding our understanding of the world contributes to more fulfilling personal and professional lives.
Knowledge as a Competitive Advantage
During the conversation, Aswin and Vriddhii touch on an important idea: knowledge isn’t just power- it’s leverage. Polymaths often adapt more easily, since their wide ranging skill sets allow them to respond quickly to challenges.
Additionally, they are equipped to create new solutions by connecting ideas across disciplines. Thus, in competitive environments, their flexibility becomes a significant advantage.
Lessons for Future Polymaths
For those eager to walk a similar path, Aswin offers actionable advice. Firstly, he believes passion is the root of growth. While skills can be learned, passion drives the desire to improve.
Secondly, he emphasizes the importance of contributing to society. Polymaths must engage with the world, not just pursue personal ambition. Therefore, cultivating awareness about how systems, cultures, and industries work is essential.
Viewers and listeners can then hear Aswin explain strategies that polymaths can use to deal with challenges. In a beautiful twist, he explains that human brains are wired to retain information based on interest. Thus, the subjects we struggled with in school may have reflected boredom- not inability. As a result, he encourages listeners to revisit topics that once felt intimidating. Under the right mindset, they might feel completely different.
To Aswin, failure is an incredible teacher. Moreover, he believes that viewing setbacks as opportunities transforms how we approach growth. Through every anecdote, Aswin reinforces that being a polymath isn’t about mastering everything at once. Rather, it’s about committing to lifelong exploration, staying curious, and using experiences as fuel for reinvention.
LUBM Smart Talks: Tune In to Discover More!
This episode of LUBM Smart Talks is packed with insight, energy, and inspiration. Aswin Sarang’s journey shows us that success doesn’t always follow a straight line. Rather, it rewards the curious and the passionate.
Therefore, whether you’re building a business, shifting careers, or rediscovering forgotten interests- embrace your polymath potential. The world needs minds that master many things.