Zoho CEO Sridhar Vembu ran to catch a train in Japan. His veshti didn't stop him
Running for a train is universal. Doing it in a traditional veshti in Japan is what made Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu an internet sensation. His
Running for a train is universal. Doing it in a traditional veshti in Japan is what made Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu an internet sensation. His now-viral video, followed by a simple "Yes and why not?" reply to a curious social media user, has earned admiration from thousands online. The video, shared by Vembu on X, shows him hurrying through a Japanese railway station with a backpack slung over his shoulders as he rushes to board a train. Read Full Story Sharing the clip, he captioned the post: "Nothing says Japan like running to catch the train..." See the post Nothing says Japan like running to catch the train...
pic.twitter.com/ckT0yDFAOH— Sridhar Vembu (@svembu) July 5, 2026 The post quickly went viral, with many users amused by the relatable moment and others praising the entrepreneur for embracing traditional Indian clothing while travelling abroad. Vembu later revealed that the train journey led to an unexpected meeting. He said he met Yoshifumi Shimagaki, a highly respected Japanese engineer who is often described by industry leaders as a "living legend of motors". Fortunate to meet Yoshifumi Shimagaki-san, a living legend of motors in Japan. Thank you Britto for making the introduction. pic.twitter.com/qFQ7DTXYqY— Sridhar Vembu (@svembu) July 7, 2026 However, it was a question from an X user that sparked an even bigger discussion.
Responding to the video, the user asked: "Mr Shridar Vembu, did you actually travel to Japan in your veshti??? How in the world and why in the world??" Vembu's reply was short and direct. "Yes and why not?" he wrote. The response struck a chord with many on social media, with users applauding his confidence and refusal to conform to conventional expectations of how global business leaders should dress. Several commenters described the Zoho founder as someone who has remained grounded despite leading one of India's most successful software companies.
Others said his response reflected comfort in his own identity and encouraged people to wear traditional attire with pride, regardless of where they are in the world. The video continues to draw reactions online, with many calling it a refreshing reminder that cultural identity and professional success do not have to exist separately. Ends
The BriefWire