As Valentine’s Day is around the corner, we celebrate the love for the the communications and marketing industries by exploring what makes them truly special.

To mark the occasion, for our February issue, Manifest chatted with industry leaders to understand the one thing they love most about their respective professions. We will be sharing their individual love letters to the industry in alphabetical order as we count down to Valentine's Day.

Here’s what Deepshikha Dharmaraj, CEO, Burson Group India, had to say...

My passion for the PR and communications industry has only deepened with time. Honestly, sharing one aspect I love about our vibrant industry would be tough, but I would certainly highlight its dynamism and constant evolution. From the era of print dominance to the rise of broadcast, and now digital evolution that’s amplified touchpoints and demanded new skills, the industry has continuously reinvented itself. Now, with AI on the horizon, we're on the cusp of yet another exciting transformation.

This evolution has also redefined PR’s role within organisations. What was once considered as a peripheral function, focused primarily on media relations, is now a key strategic powerhouse. PR plays a pivotal role in driving reputation management, shaping public perception, building meaningful stakeholder relationships and more. It’s commendable how we transitioned from simply viewing PR as a media engagement channel to employing a multi-stakeholder approach that connects with consumers, partners, government, employees and communities, alike.

This ever-changing landscape of the industry ensures that there’s never a dull moment. Every day brings in new learning and exciting opportunities that energises me. Over the years, the industry has taught me to embrace a growth mindset. I don’t view challenges as obstacles but as opportunities. I don’t complain but rather ask myself and the team ‘How can we solve this?’ ‘What can we do better?’

I feel honoured to be a part of such a vibrant, ever-evolving industry. Its energy is infectious, and I truly feel that it keeps me inspired and continues to fuel my passion for this incredible industry.