ABOUT
About Me
I’m Suriyakumar Ashoka, an entrepreneur based in Chennai. I founded Host IT in 2008 and now run it under Tathagata Infotech Private Limited. My work involves helping businesses build and manage their online presence through domains, hosting, business email, websites and digital marketing.
My interests extend beyond business and technology. Buddhism has become an important part of my study and practice. I also take a disciplined interest in physical health and am developing my understanding of investing and personal finance. This website brings these different parts of my life together and gives me a place to share what I learn through them.
Education and early direction
I completed my primary education at a private English-medium school. I then moved to a government boys’ higher secondary school, where I completed my secondary and higher-secondary education in Tamil medium. The transition between these two educational environments required me to adapt to a different medium of instruction.
After completing higher secondary school, I pursued a Diploma in Electrical and Electronics Engineering and graduated with 95%. I then earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering from Regional Engineering College, Tiruchirappalli, now known as the National Institute of Technology Tiruchirappalli.
From engineering to digital services
During the final year of my engineering degree, I attended an Entrepreneurship Development Programme organised at my college. The programme inspired me to pursue entrepreneurship. I realised that before starting a business, I needed practical experience in sales and marketing. With that purpose, I began my career as a marketing executive at a company involved in web design and development and software development.
The role taught me how to understand clients’ needs and present suitable digital solutions. It also showed me the business potential of the internet. This experience eventually led me to establish Host IT in 2008.
Over the years, Host IT expanded its services to include domain registration, web hosting, business email, website development and digital marketing. In 2018, I incorporated Tathagata Infotech Private Limited, under which Host IT now operates.
Running the business has been an education in itself. I have worked directly with clients, managed technical and commercial responsibilities, faced setbacks and adapted to the continuing changes in the digital-services industry.
Studying Buddhism
My engagement with Buddhism led me to study it academically. I completed a Master of Arts in Buddhism from the University of Madras.
For me, Buddhism is not merely a subject of academic interest. It influences how I examine experience, respond to difficulties and think about personal and social responsibility. I continue to study Buddhist teachings and take part in activities connected with their learning and propagation.
What I am exploring now
My current areas of focus are organised around four themes:
Mind
Buddhism, meditation, learning and reflection.
Muscle
Strength, cardiovascular fitness and caring for the body.
Milieu
Society, relationships, community and the conditions in which we live.
Money
Business, investing and responsible financial management.
I do not claim expertise in all these areas. Some reflect years of experience, while others are subjects I am still learning. I use this website to document that process honestly: what I have understood, what I am testing and where my views change with experience.
Professional work
Through Host IT, I help businesses establish and improve their digital presence. My aim is to develop it as a dependable, long-term digital-services partner for businesses in India and beyond.
If you would like to discuss business, Buddhism, health, investing or an idea worth examining, you are welcome to contact me.