🙂🌞 Interview with Shirazikira ⚓😃

Interview with @shirazikira 27.07.2025

Thank you very much @shirazikira that i can interview you for the forum!!! 🙏🙏 I will ask 20 questions and if there is a question that you dont like it is not a problem of course and i can change it!!! 😛 Here are the first 5️⃣ questions!! ⬇️⬇️

⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀ PART I

1: I first wanted to ask about your name!! Is that also your first name and does it have a special meaning? Do you have any funny nicknames that your friends gave you? 😛

Haha, thanks for asking! Yes, Kira is my first name, and it actually has a beautiful meaning, it means 'the ray of sun.' 🌞 I really love that, because I like to think it reflects a bit of brightness or warmth in my personality (at least on good days, rather than cloudy! 😄).

My full name is Kira Shirazi. Shirazi is more of a family or cultural name, and sometimes people think it's part of my first name, but it’s actually my surname. Many people here, mentioned me as "Shira" from my user name, but I never offend it, I just enjoy talking with them as "Shira". 😃

As for nicknames… My friends can get really creative and started calling me Jack.. and I imitate by saying - "Captain Jack Sparrow".. 😃 During my college time, my face is quite similar to captain jack sparrow character and I tried to imitate that.. 😛. My parents used to call me "Kiku", there is no meaning of it, but I loved it. My one of the close friends had given these names - "Kira - the curious" (because, I am always curious to know anything.. I mean everything), "Kira - the calendar" (because, I like history so I remembered events with the date, also I keep remember any special event of my life too.)

2: How long have you been a member of PPG? What do you like the most? And what kind of forums do you like? Do you have any tips for @Etienne to make PPG better?

I've been a member of PPG for around 2 months now, and I must say, it's been a really refreshing experience!

What I like the most is the diversity, people from all over the world connecting through genuine curiosity and kindness. Most of the people are from Europe region, and I thought they don't like Indians, but I did not get such thing to feel.

As for forums, I usually enjoy the ones where people talk about languages, cultures and philosophy. I liked this forum https://penpal-gate.net/forum/13-anything-and-everything/11121-who-am-i, but this forum is little bit inactive. I would like the forum where everybody can share their travel experience. But I could not find such forum, suggest me if you have. I want to add my experience there. I always enjoy game forums - Place name and Special name.. LoL. I am also fond of movie and music, so I also participate those forums often.

I’m actually a technical person by background, so I naturally notice how websites function under the hood too. I am already in communication with @Etienne regarding improving PPG in my region, also I will share some ideas to implement on the portal, that improve user experience.

3: It says on your profile that you are from Mumbai. Did you always live there and what do you think of your homecity? And if we come to visit in Mumbai what are the nicest things to see or do first?

Yes, I’m from Mumbai, I am here for my job. My home city is Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. So technically, I’m a Gujarati living in the city of dreams.

Mumbai is fast-paced, crowded, and never really sleeps. Billionaires of the country are living in Mumbai, as well as the world's biggest slum area i.e. Dharavi is also part of Mumbai, where the movie Slumdog Millionaire filmed. What I admire most is its energy and diversity. You’ll find people from every corner of India (and beyond), all hustling together in their own way.

If you ever visit Mumbai, I’d definitely recommend starting with:

1. Local markets like Chor Bazaar and Crawford Market.

2. Bandra, for trendy cafe, street view and sea views.

3. Sanjay Gandhi National Park, that have full forest with caves, also have some wild animals like leopard.

4. Gateway of India & Elephanta

5. Marine Drive - beach to watch sunset.

And of course, don’t miss trying Vada Pav, Pav Bhaji, and a hot cutting Chai (Tea) from a roadside stall! 😛

It’s quite different from Ahmedabad — which is more relaxed, with a rich cultural vibe and some amazing food of its own. If you want to visit Ahmedabad, I will be your personal guide. 😃

4: If you become the leader of the UN or your country: what are the first things that you would do?

Actually, that’s a big responsibility!

If I ever became the leader of the UN or my country, I think my first focus would be on 3Es.

Education, Environment, and Ethics.

Being an Indian, I deeply believe in the ancient idea of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam', which means 'the world is one family.' I think if more global leaders truly embraced that idea — beyond just speeches — we could solve many conflicts and cooperate better on global challenges.

5: Do you prefer Bollywood movies from India or other Asian movies or series or other kind of movies on for example Netflix? And which Bollywood movie or series should everybody see and why?

I always enjoy watching movies — it doesn’t matter if it’s Bollywood, Hollywood, Korean, Chinese, or anything in between. I’m really open to all kinds of cinema, and I watch across all genres, romance, thriller, horror, drama, comedy, fantasy, Sci-fi, etc. It all just depends on my mood that day. 😄

Being an Indian, I definitely have a soft spot for Bollywood movies. The emotions, the music, the vibrant storytelling, it’s something that stays with you. But I also really admire Indian regional cinema like Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Bengali, and Gujarati films. Regional movies often bring such raw, rooted, and authentic storytelling that feels closer to everyday life, yet just as cinematic. I also really appreciate the depth and subtlety you often find in Korean or Japanese dramas, and the scale and polish of Hollywood productions.

Bollywood Movie or series -

1. Andhadhun - it's clever, darkly funny, and full of unpredictable twists.

2. Taare Zameen Par - It’s a deeply emotional story about a young boy with dyslexia and how one teacher changes his life. It speaks to how important it is to understand children instead of just pushing them to perform , something we can all relate to in some way.

3. Asur - It’s a crime thriller that combines modern-day forensic science with ancient Indian mythology. if you like a mix of mythology, crime, psychology, and suspense, you’ll probably enjoy this one!

4. Dil Chahta Hai - It’s a timeless story about friendship, love, growing up, and how relationships evolve as we move through life.

5. Kal Ho Na Ho - It means Tomorrow May Never Come. It’s one of those rare movies that makes you laugh, cry, and reflect - all in one sitting.

6. Kahaani - It’s a smart, gripping film with a strong female lead — and trust me, it keeps you guessing till the very end. Perfect for fans of mystery, psychological thrillers, and slow-burn suspense.

There are many more suggestions on movies to watch, but this time I am listing these only. Contact me if anyone really interested in Indian movies. 😉

Thank you very much Kira- that i could ask the questions of the first part!!! I learned from you that i should say in your first language Gujarati આભાર તમારો to say thank you (Aabhar Tamaro)! And you also speak Hindi and in that case you say धन्यवाद (Dhanyavad)!! 😊😊 Later i will add some pictures which i think are maybe nice for this first part of your interview. 🙂 And if anybody wants to also ask a question or post a comment about the interview you can do that below. Thank you very much!! 🙏🙏

More interviews of PPG members are on this page: overview of interviews

@Chantal- and @madmax82 I forgot to tag you but Kira @shirazikira is mister pineapple from the pizza forum!!! 😛 😛 And Kira maybe Chantal and Max SECRETLY like pineapple pizza and eat it with pineapple juice and a fruit desert!! 🍕🍍🏆

Ehm, no i don't secretly like it! I promise!

Ehm, no i don't secretly like it! I promise!

It's okay, @Chantal- Everyone has choices. 😃

Thank you @Yue_! I enjoyed being part of this interview! Looking for more ahead.. 😃

It's okay, @Chantal- Everyone has choices. 😃

Thank you @Yue_! I enjoyed being part of this interview! Looking for more ahead.. 😃

Thankssss Kira @shirazikira!!! 🙂 ANDD i think these pictures are nice to add for your interview:

⬆️ Captain Jack Sparrow ⬆️

⬆️ Ahmedabad (and @Sabri_KC i think you must make a photo with you and the last world globe!!!) ⬆️

⬆️ Mumbai ⬆️

⬆️ Bollywood movies ⬆️

the pic with the global in the river is nice, but what is inside it?

I have no idea!!! But i found it on google when i typed in the city that Kira mentioned where he is from and i thought like wowww!!!!

Maybe Kira @shirazikira do you know if you can get inside it? 🙄🙄

⬆️ Ahmedabad (and @Sabri_KC i think you must make a photo with you and the last world globe!!!) ⬆️

ABSOLUTELY !!! 🤩🤩🤩🤩

And why not a photo with Kira as well if I ever meet him

Ohh.. lot of is being running here... Sorry friends, I was little busy during working days.

@LandRoverDiscovery2, @Yue_, @Sabri_KC - IF you find water in Ahmedabad photos - that is Kankaria Lake, and there is an island in the center, there we can find hufe garden, with different types of fountains, and at the night there is a laser show that shows history of Gujarat, India. And the water you see in Mumbai photo, is the Arabian Sea, and the building is Gate way of India. And the Huge Globe is the Science City, Ahmedabad, If anybody is interested in physics, astronomy, geology, botany, zoology - must visit this place.

Sure @LandRoverDiscovery2, I would like to visit Mexico. For USA and Canada.. I am not interested yet.. 😃 😃

and for me, Mexican food.. 😃 😃 😃

Kira @shirazikira als gave this answer in a new message to me abt the Bollywood movies that are really nice for the interview so i copy it here:

1. Drishyam - A gripping thriller where a father's love turns into a masterclass in deception.

2. Drishyam 2 - The perfect sequel that deepens the mystery and doubles the tension.

3. Chal Mann Jitva Jaiye - A powerful journey of inner conflict, where winning the mind matters more than winning the world.

4. Chal Mann Jitva Jaiye 2 - A thought-provoking continuation that explores ethics, ego, and choices in the world of business and self-realization.

And i googled and i hope that these are the right pictures (@shirazikira the last one is bit different how they wrote it but i guess it is the same movie:

@Yue_ - Thanks! the last one is the same as 3rd.. for last -

Would you ever like to play in a Bollywood movie if they ask you Kira? And if yes what kind would you like to play in? 🙂

I would like to be in background, like editor, director, background score, script writing, etc.

But If I have to select to play a role, I would like to play a role of Akshay Khanna of Dil Chahta Hai movie, and a role of Krishna Bhardwaj of Chal Mann Jitva Jaiye movie. Both characters define my character similarly.

⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀ PART II

6: What is your clothing style if you are free (for example at home or going out with friends)? And what do you normally wear if you go to work? And did you have a school uniform or you could choose yourself?

My clothing style really depends on the mood and occasion.

1 - T-shirts, joggers, or shorts - When I’m at home or just relaxing.

2 - Jeans, Short Kurta (khadi or cotton) or T-shirt - When I'm outside or with my friends

3 - Solid shirts or polos, sometimes formal trousers or denim - When I go for work, as I’m in a technical field, the dress code is usually smart casual.

4 - I had school uniform, White shirt and Gray pant till 8th Grade and then light brown shirt and dark brown pant till 12th grade. Uniform had Tie, but I never worn it.. 😃

Except this, I like Indian traditional attire a lot. I used to wear Kurta with Pyjama or Dhoti. I have huge collection of Kurta to wear in every family occasion, some times I wear that without any occasion - just to be chill! 😃

7: Do you have the hindu religion or another religion? And what is the most important day that you celebrate in your religion?

I follow Jainism, which is an ancient Indian religion that emphasizes non-violence, truth, and self-discipline. It’s a spiritual path that encourages simplicity, compassion, and inner growth.

The most important and sacred festival for us is Paryushan. It’s a time for reflection, forgiveness, fasting, and self-purification. The last day of Paryushan is known as Samvatsari, and it’s especially meaningful — we ask for forgiveness from everyone, saying ‘Micchami Dukkadam,’ which means ‘I seek forgiveness for any harm caused knowingly or unknowingly.’ It’s a beautiful way to let go of ego and reconnect with humility.

8: Did you have an idol when you were in school? And do you have an idol now?

Yeah, back in school my idol was Bill Gates. I was really inspired by how he built Microsoft and changed the world with his ideas — that’s actually one of the reasons I got into the computer field. I used to read a lot about him and even dreamed of starting something on my own one day. 😄

These days though, my perspective has shifted. I’m more drawn to deeper, inner stuff and now I really look up to J. Krishnamurti. He wasn’t about giving answers but asking the right questions - about life, fear, freedom, the mind. His talks make me reflect and challenge my own thinking. It's not the kind of inspiration that pushes me to 'achieve more,' but to 'understand more.' And that really connects with me now.

9: What kind of books do you like to read? And if you would have to write a book yourself, what would it be about?

I enjoy reading a mix of books, but I’m mostly drawn to spiritual ones - especially those that explore consciousness, self-inquiry, and inner peace. Besides that, I also love suspense thrillers and sometimes I go for something light and fun, just to relax the mind. For the list of book, visit my profile - I have mentioned book I read and liked it.

Interestingly, I’ve been planning to write a book myself! I actually have three story ideas in mind — all of them are suspense thrillers, but with a twist: they start with mystery and tension, but slowly lead to a spiritual or philosophical conclusion. I love the idea of blending thrill with meaning — something that keeps you hooked but also leaves you thinking long after it ends.

10: Can you tell about your job? What do you like about it and what not? And did you have different jobs in the past maybe? And if you can change everything again what would be your DREAM job?

So, I work as a technical project/delivery manager — which basically means I spend my day juggling deadlines, solving mysteries that developers won’t admit exist, and smiling through surprise meetings that should’ve been emails. 😄 But honestly, I love it — I enjoy managing teams, finding solutions, and watching ideas turn into real products. It’s like being a tech therapist and a strategist at the same time.

Before this, I used to be a technical tutor, and that was something I genuinely enjoyed. There’s something special about helping someone understand a concept and seeing that lightbulb moment — so now I’m planning to restart it as part-time online tutoring. You know, spread some knowledge and hopefully fewer bugs.

And if I could go back and change everything… I probably wouldn’t. I feel lucky — I’m already doing what I love. A mix of tech, people, and purpose. Maybe one day I’ll add ‘author’ to the list too — with that suspense-spiritual book I keep dreaming about. 😊

Many thankssss Kira for answering and taking really the time!!! 🙏🙏 And i never heard of your religion before but i really like what you described!!! Especially the forgiveness and that it is not violent at all. But you are very modest and you give compassion like you wrote. 🌼😊😇 I will look up more abt it ANDDD i will look for nice photos later that can be added in this forum too!! 🙂 If anybody wants to ask a question or post a comment than you can do that below!! ⬇️🔽⬇️ Thank you very much!!! 🥰🥰

⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀ ⠀⠀ ⠀ PART III

11: What do you think are the biggest challenges for India and your homecity in the next 5 years and do you think that they will be solved?

For India, the biggest challenges in the next 5 years will be balancing growth with sustainability, tackling pollution, improving infrastructure, and creating enough jobs for the youth.

For my home city Ahmedabad, traffic and pollution are challenges too, but it’s also developing rapidly - it’s India’s first UNESCO World Heritage City, home to the world’s largest cricket stadium, and is being prepared as a potential host for the 2036 Olympics. Plus, the country’s first bullet train will connect Ahmedabad to Mumbai.

These won’t all be solved overnight, but I’m optimistic - India is moving in the right direction with steady progress.

12: What are the most beautiful places in your country and why? And what is the most beautiful country that you ever visited? Which country is the highest on your list that you want to visit?

India itself is like many countries in one — every state has its own beauty.

In the North-East, there are unspoiled natural scenery such as Meghalaya's living root bridges and Nagaland's rolling hills. Leh–Ladakh provides dreamlike mountains and emerald lakes that look otherworldly. Kerala is sometimes referred to as 'God's Own Country' for its backwaters, beaches, and green forests. Gujarat provides the wide white desert of the Rann of Kutch and Gir National Park, the habitat of the Asiatic lions. Rajasthan is about majestic forts, palaces, and the golden desert terrain. Uttarakhand and Himachal are just full of Himalayan beauty — trekking, rivers, and snow-covered peaks. Maharashtra boasts Ajanta–Ellora caves, seashore beauty, and Mumbai itself. Truthfully, nearly every state in India has something special to share, either natural wonders, cultural heritage, or religious places.

For the most scenic country I've been to, initially I would say India itself, due to its diversity. Externally, India, I must say, the Philippines was just absolutely stunning — with its clean blue waters, islands such as Palawan and Boracay, and the people's friendliness. It's truly a nature and beach lover's paradise.

On my wish list, the Scandinavian countries (Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland) are at the top. I’d love to experience the magic of the Northern Lights, the long nights and long days, and the serene natural beauty there. It’s a dream trip waiting to happen.

13: If you could speak with yourself when you were 5 and when you will be 80 would you do that? What would you like to say or ask?

Yes, definitely. If I could speak to my 5-year-old self, I’d tell him: ‘Stay innocent, stay curious, and always remember ahimsa (non-violence) in thoughts and actions. Don’t fear the future — walk with compassion and simplicity. Gain fearlessness and encourage everybody you meet.’

If I could talk to my 80-year-old self, I’d ask: ‘Did I live with awareness and without too much attachment? Did I use my time to grow spiritually, help others, and stay true to Human values as well as Nature values?’ I’d hope my elder self reminds me that true happiness lies not in achievements, but in inner peace and kindness — and maybe also how to keep smiling even at 80.

14: What is the nicest memory with your grandparents? Are they still alive? Did they teach you things that you think are very important?

My nicest memories with my grandparents are very close to my heart.

My grandmother was an amazing cook and always fun-loving, bringing joy to everyone around her.

My grandfather was a man of principles — he had been active in India’s freedom movement and, after independence, dedicated himself to improving his village.

Both of them are no longer alive, but what they taught me still guides me: to live with fewer resources and always remember that what we take from nature, we must give back, or else imbalance will follow. I try to follow this even today.

15: What is your biggest dream before you are 50?

My biggest dream before I turn 50 is to have a book published with my name as the author.

Writing has always been a passion for me, and I’d love to bring together my ideas - especially suspense thrillers with a spiritual twist into something that can inspire, entertain, and maybe even guide readers.

And who knows, maybe Netflix or Amazon Prime will pick it up and I’ll finally get to argue about who should play the lead role. 😃 😃

Thank you @Yue_ !! I enjoyed answering and also exploring about my views on it..

Thank you @Yue_ !! I enjoyed answering and also exploring about my views on it..

Thank you very much @shirazikira!!! I will make more questions later of course BUTTT i will first add photos later that i think are nice about your answers. But i will do that later when i have time and can google things you said in the answers. 😊😊😇