Arjun Sharma, a dynamic leader with a diverse business portfolio, reveals how golf seamlessly aligns with his entrepreneurial vision. In this conversation with Travellers World, he discusses the role of golf in fostering business connections, enhancing India’s golf tourism landscape, and the inspiration behind the Select Group Golf Invitational.
You have a diverse portfolio that includes retail, hospitality, and organic farming. Can you share the origins of your passion for golf and how it intersects with your varied interests?
Golf is more than just a sport—it’s a game of strategy, patience, and precision, values that resonate with my approach to business. Whether in hospitality, retail, or organic farming, We have always believed in creating meaningful experiences, and golf naturally complements that philosophy. It fosters connections, promotes well-being, and aligns with the luxury and lifestyle elements that define our businesses.
The Select Group Golf Invitational held in January this year set a new standard for fostering connections among participants. What was your vision behind establishing this annual event, and how do you see it evolving in the coming years?
The idea behind the Select Group Golf Invitational was to create an environment where business leaders could connect in a meaningful and engaging way. Golf has a unique ability to foster relationships beyond traditional networking, and this event was designed to facilitate that. The overwhelming response has reinforced our belief in its impact. As we move forward, the Select Group Golf Invitational will continue to grow, becoming bigger and bolder while staying true to its essence of bringing people together through the game.
The perception of golf has traditionally been that it’s an elite sport. In your view, how has the popularity and accessibility of golf changed in recent years, and what factors do you think have contributed to this transformation?
Golf is evolving—it’s no longer just an elite sport but a lifestyle pursuit. Public courses, corporate leagues, and junior development programs have broadened accessibility. The success of Indian golfers on the global stage has also fueled interest. As infrastructure grows and more people recognize the sport’s networking and wellness benefits, golf is becoming more inclusive and aspirational.
With India emerging as a vibrant destination for various forms of tourism, what are your thoughts on the potential for golf tourism in the country? How can this sector contribute to the overall growth of tourism in India?
India has incredible potential for golf tourism, with its diverse landscapes and world-class courses in destinations like Hyderabad, Pune, and Kolkata. By integrating luxury hospitality, curated experiences, and international tournaments, we can position India as a premier golfing destination. This not only attracts high-value travelers but also boosts local economies and enhances India’s global tourism appeal.
As someone always looking toward the future, are there any exciting new projects or initiatives related to golf or your other business interests that you can share with our readers?
Innovation is at the core of what we do. In hospitality, we’re developing ultra-luxury properties that seamlessly integrate wellness and recreation. We are also curating new lifestyle experiences that blend sports, culture, and business networking. Golf will continue to play a key role in shaping these experiences, reinforcing India’s position on the global golfing map.