Offbeat: Deepika Singh – Of equine pursuits & musical aspirations

In our constant endeavour to give our readers content that is a little ‘hatke’ from the trade media norm, Adgully has been coming out with Special sections like The W-Suite, Ad Land’s Young Guns, Spirit W and more. Our latest offering is ‘Offbeat’. 

Our weekly series ‘Offbeat’ seeks to give a glimpse of the lesser known facets of our very well-known industry leaders. We present, in the industry leaders’ own words, an interesting read on areas that are not usually highlighted in regular media coverage – be it about their childhood days, secret skills that they possess, how they unwind from their hectic schedules, and much more. 

As Director – Communications, Deepika Singh is the official spokesperson and head of Corporate Communications & Public Affairs at Gionee India. She has over 16 years of diverse experience in the field of communications and branding, and is an integral part of the core Corporate Strategy team at Gionee India. 

How were you as a child and which childhood trait do you still possess?
As a child I always believed I could achieve anything that I put my mind into and thanks to my parents, I had the freedom to take independent decisions even then. I was a multi-tasker and would participate in all the extracurricular activities, just to test my limits. I feel this is something that has remained with me through the years, and I still like taking up different activities to challenge myself. 

Which superhero did you look up to as a kid and why? Which superhero power you wish you possessed?
Since childhood and till date, my Mom has been my superhero. She has convinced me that women are far from being the weaker sex, and can face any adversity with strength and grace. 

What is your biggest fear and how do you face it?
My biggest fear is claustrophobia. I overcome it by doing Yoga and concentrating on breathing exercises. I also plan to take up swimming so I can further battle my fear with claustrophobia.  

A skill you possess that no one knows about?
It is my perseverance and the determination to ensure that any activity I involve myself in, reaching its logical conclusion. 

What would one find in your playlist?
I like folk and classical music. Farida Khanam, Zeb & Haniya and Papon are my favourites. 

Your go-to activity to relax?
Horse riding and playing musical instruments are the biggest stress busters for me. 

What is the greatest lesson that you have learnt from life so far?
Nothing is permanent, nothing lasts forever, so one should refrain from too much attachment or expectations from life and its trappings. I keep reminding myself to stay prepared to face any unpredictability at any moment of time. 

A social cause that you are most passionate about?
Being a mother and a Gionee employee, I would say child welfare and health is my passion. I feel proud of being associated with an organisation that works to provide treatment to underprivileged children suffering from Leukaemia. Till date, Gionee has helped contribute to the treatment of more than 400 children, and being a small but integral part of this noble work has not just impacted me but also my fellow colleagues. 

What’s the one thing you would like to change about yourself?
I tend to believe people very easily. While I am happy about not being distrustful of people and situations, I check myself from taking that chance with everyone. 

If not ‎the Communications Director at Gionee India, what would you have been?
A musician, for sure!