Artistry in Motion
In the bustling world of advertising, marketing, and media, where each day brings new challenges and opportunities, Ankoor Dasguupta stands as a guiding light of inspiration and innovation. With over two decades of experience, he has not just navigated the dynamic landscape but has woven his journey with a harmonious blend of passion, curiosity, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
Ankoor’s philosophy revolves around the profound idea that giving is receiving, and this belief has shaped him into not just an accomplished professional but also a compassionate leader. His commitment to excellence extends beyond mere rhetoric; it’s a daily practice rooted in the Japanese philosophy of kaizen. For Ankoor, creating experiences is not just a job but a way of life, allowing him to evolve as a better human being and a more effective leader with each passing day.
In his own words, “I have failed in many instances, but I have always raised my hand where no one else did. My vulnerability has been my strength because I have always recognized my vulnerability and not let it overpower me.” This acknowledgment of vulnerability coupled with a deep commitment to effective listening and attention to detail has been instrumental in addressing complex situations with empathy, compassion, and grit.
Ankoor’s professional journey is characterized by a diverse array of adaptability and resilience. Transitioning from the traditional print media industry to the digital realm, he faced and conquered challenges, including the shift from a paper-dependent environment to a paperless, software-enabled one. His ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn has been a constant companion in his journey, allowing him to stay relevant in a rapidly changing industry.
When asked about the inspiration behind his business portfolio, Ankoor emphasizes the importance of understanding the consumer journey, the soul of marketing. His work reflects not just a job but a deep-seated passion for exploring the various facets of marketing and media.
Ankoor’s life philosophy extends beyond his professional endeavors. Early mornings and simplicity serve as the tapestry of his passion. An avid reader and writer, he also finds solace and inspiration in music, being a skilled Tabla player with a diverse taste ranging from Electronic Dance to Indian Classical. His commitment to simplicity is reflected in his disdain for binge-watching and binge-eating, preferring a balanced and mindful approach to life.
In the corporate jungle, Ankoor sees himself not as a rat racing for survival nor as a tiger chasing dominance. Instead, he identifies with the composure and strength of a lion. As he puts it with a touch of humor, “On a lighter note, I love pandas as well!”
Ankoor’s inspiration is drawn from micro-moments in daily life, observing people during metro rides, and reflecting on human interactions. Initiatives around sustainability deeply resonate with him, and he aspires to engage more in this meaningful cause. His desire to invest more time in leadership coaching reflects his commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders.
When it comes to defining leadership, Ankoor sees it as a state of mind that evolves through daily reflection and self-actualization. For him, leadership is about creating more leaders, a purpose that goes beyond personal success to contribute to the growth of others. He emphasizes the importance of discipline, organization, and the ability to listen, anticipate, drive growth, identify talent, and handle complex decision-making.
In reflecting on his journey, Ankoor Dasguupta expresses profound gratitude for the unwavering support of his wife, daughter, and cherished friends, as well as the invaluable guidance from leaders and teams he’s had the privilege to work alongside. Their collective influence has shaped him into the professional he is today. Regarding accolades, Ankoor has been honored to be recognized by esteemed forums, serving on their Jury and Council, and as a speaker in the marketing and advertising domain, including engagements at renowned Business Schools. Additionally, he contributes regularly to established publications through guest columns and online blogs. Ankoor is currently enhancing his expertise by pursuing PCC Level Certification from ICF to become a professional coach.
In his parting thoughts, Ankoor encourages benevolence, purpose realization, and action. His simple yet profound practice of smiling from the heart and maintaining playfulness in daily life reflects his belief that life need not always be serious. As he wisely puts it, “Life is not much about social media friends but about being cognizant of who you spend most of your time with.”
Ankoor Dasguupta’s journey is a mosaic of passion, leadership, and continuous growth—a melody that inspires others to strive for excellence, embrace vulnerability, and find joy in the journey. His story serves as evidence to the transformative power of dedication, curiosity, and the steadfast pursuit of personal and professional development. In the ever-evolving landscape of his industry, Ankoor remains a steadfast leader, weaving a narrative that resonates with those who aspire to craft their own unique fusion of success.