The ‘elusive’ Singhania cornered

Director of Raymond Limited, youngest president of BMA and family man, Anant Singhania believes in multi-tasking.

Affectionately labeled a 'workaholic' by his wife, his name has stalwarts in the industry sitting up. Others, however, might draw a blank. Thirty-two-year-old businessman Anant Singhania prefers to keep a low profile. "Each one has their own way of living and this is how I want to be, away from the media," says the first cousin of Gautam Singhania.

Sitting amidst antiques and discreetly ticking clocks, he clarifies at the outset that though he won't be talking about the company, he is open to all other questions. "I think one spokesperson for the company is enough," says the director of Raymond Limited. But there is more than just business to his credit - the youngest president of the Bombay Management Association (BMA) is gung-ho about upcoming conventions and conferences that he is busy setting up.

"I have been associated with this organisation for the last six years and so far we have introduced a new chapter in Navi Mumbai in addition to one in town and the other in Western suburbs so that people don't have to commute all the way into town to attend programmes."

With the organisation incorporating management institute students, corporates and individuals from the industry, BMA is geared to promote management-related skills and knowledge through workshops, conventions and conferences. "Apart from my daily work, BMA takes up all my time," smiles Anant, who is gearing up for a media convention come mid-November.

Though work might often come first for him, he loves to spend time with his wife Roma and four-year-old son Aadya. "Every Sunday, when the Formula 1 races are on, my son and I dress up in red to show our support for Ferrari and watch the races," he admits. Having earlier raced himself and indulged in some exciting fun, he now prefers the comfort of his couch to participate in the racing frenzy.

Apart from that, Anant believes he leads a life like any other person. "I try and go to the gym daily, play a bit of snooker and socialise with my friends." A socially aware citizen, he did his bit for victims of the deluge. "I tied up with NGOs who were working in several areas to supply medicines, foodstuff and tarpaulins. My wife also tied up with other organisations to help the affected children."

When it comes to his wife, Anant is quick to acknowledge that she is his 'back bone'. Having almost grown up with each other, theirs was a love marriage as we are told by Roma while Anant poses for the camera. "My wife is a full-time homemaker who is always there to support me," he says. "She will leave everything to aid me, if need be."