MANJALI NAIK
PANJIM: Growing up during the early 2000’s, Kiran Mayenkar’s interest in remote-controlled (RC) cars was the first spark that ignited his love for technology. He was fascinated by how these devices worked and spent hours exploring their mechanics. His inquisitive nature led him to experiment with various models, developing a keen understanding of control systems and motion dynamics. However, it was during the COVID-19 pandemic, while attending online college classes as a Commerce student, that he took a step closer to his dreams. With ample free time, he decided to purchase his first drone, setting the foundation for an exciting new chapter in his life.
What began as a hobby soon became a daily practice session on Divar Island, at a serene spot where Kiran would fly his drone every evening at sunset. These expeditions not only helped him refine his skills but also deepened his love for the art and technology of drone flying.
Determined to turn his passion into a profession, Kiran obtained his DGCA drone pilot licence. The certification process involved training, including simulator exercises and on-field flying assessments. Through hands-on experience and expert guidance, he mastered the technical and regulatory aspects of drone operations, earning his official credentials to explore diverse opportunities in the drone industry.
Kiran has carved a niche for himself in FPV (First Person View) drone operations. His expertise shines in destination weddings, where he captures breath-taking moments from unique angles, creating cinematic experiences for his clients. Beyond weddings, he has showcased his skills in real estate, offering one-take FPV videos that provide
potential buyers with an immersive property tour.
Kiran’s work also extends to infrastructure projects. He has contributed to significant ventures like the Western Bypass in Salcete, the under-construction flyovers at Porvorim and near the Dabolim Airport, conducting surveys that aid construction companies in their development efforts. His versatility is further evident in his use of custom-built drones for specific purposes, such as navigating tight spaces in real estate projects or employing DJI drones for large-scale surveys.
Alongside his individual work, Kiran is also a co-founder of a content creation and post-production company. Through this venture, he collaborates with clients across industries, including hospitality, automotive, and personal branding. From creating promotional content for resorts to capturing intricate details of luxury cars, his brand 9Tales Creative has established itself as a versatile and innovative company under Kiran’s leadership.
Kiran’s exceptional talent has garnered recognition both nationally and internationally. He was awarded the prestigious GoPro Awards for his work with slackliners. His collaboration with celebrated Goan artist Subodh Kerkar has been featured in international magazines, further solidifying his reputation as an up-and-coming visionary in the ariel photography field.
Despite his success, Kiran has faced his fair share of challenges. Navigating the complex and varied drone regulations across different Indian cities is a constant hurdle. Moreover, the absence of official DJI service centres in India means relying on third-party operators, often at inflated costs and without warranties. These obstacles, however, have only strengthened his resolve and adaptability.
To aspiring drone pilots, Kiran emphasises the importance of relentless practice, both on simulators and in real-world conditions. He advises building a diverse portfolio, continuously experimenting with creative ideas, and stacking skills to stand out in this competitive field.
Kiran envisions a future where drones play an even more significant role in industries such as agriculture, transportation, and filmmaking. He is excited about the endless possibilities this technology offers and remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with drones.
For Kiran, the journey is as fulfilling as the destination. Traveling across
the globe, creating stunning drone content, and witnessing the beauty of different landscapes make his profession deeply rewarding.