Madhu Singh, a beacon of focus and versatility, defies age with unwavering determination. From entrepreneurship to athletics, philanthropy to theatre, her impact resonates across myriad realms. Co-founding the Pardada-Pardadi NGO, she empowers young girls through education. Establishing “Harness India” catapulted her to international acclaim, fostering ties with Mauritius and South Africa. Expanding into serviced apartments with Perch Residences Pvt. Ltd., she garners accolades for exceptional service, even expanding to Melbourne. A golfer, CrossFit champion, and theatre enthusiast, Madhu’s zest for life knows no bounds. Her nurturing presence extends to her family, epitomizing undeterred dedication and a profound commitment to positive change.
Q. Your journey spans across various fields, from entrepreneurship to philanthropy to athletics. What motivated you to explore such diverse paths, and how do you manage to excel in each of them?
A. I believe that staying fit is the most important aspect to life and that it helps us achieve our goals; whatever they may be. Fortunately, Yoga was almost a religion in my parental home and I grew up practicing healthy habits from a very young age. Business is my passion and building a community is what drives me. After establishing in the export business and working towards women empowerment, helping girls to fulfill their dreams (while in Pardada Pardadi Trust) the progression to business felt natural
Q. Could you share some pivotal moments or challenges you encountered while establishing and managing “Harness India” and “Perch Residences Pvt. Ltd.”? How did you overcome these obstacles?
A. I used to travel alone overseas extensively participating in various exhibitions, but due to shortage of funds I often use to deposit my passport as security with customs authorities with the promise of having my money refunded to me after obtaining orders from the vendors. This whole exercise used to be very stressful and challenging but a positive attitude and faith in myself and in my product helped me sail through.
Q. The establishment of “Pardada Pardadi” reflects your commitment to empowering young girls in rural India. What inspired you to initiate this noble cause, and what impact have you witnessed over the years?
A. I received this inspiration from a bunch of talented girls in Roorkee Cantt, this was when my husband was posted there. I noticed that the girls were producing world class handicrafts but had none of the resources to sell it. I took this as a challenge and for the purpose formed a company called Harness India. Our very first collection was showcased at the prestigious Cottage Emporium of Delhi and MUMBAI and was a huge success.
Post this, I took this craft to my village in UP and helped my uncle to start a NGO called Pardada Pardadi; where young girls learnt this craft along with FREE regular education. Today, not only the school girls but a large number of women of surrounding villages are engaged in this activity, and thus making a living from the same.
Q. Your achievements in sports, particularly in golf and CrossFit, are commendable. How do you maintain a balance between your professional endeavors and your passion for athletics?
A. I have always kept time in life, where I indulge in things close to my heart. To excel at any sports one has to invest in physical fitness, and to this end I found CrossFit the most suitable form of exercise that not only improves strength but builds stamina, flexibility and speed at the same time. I believe in giving 100% commitment to anything I do , therefore when I participate in tournaments I check my work schedule, and if it permits me I dedicate more time to practice Golf as I believe in giving 100% commitment to anything I do.
Q. Your involvement in theatre adds another dimension to your multifaceted personality. How has participating in theatre enriched your life, and what lessons have you learned from this experience?
A. Dancing is my favorite pastim and I find theatre most enjoyable. Theater is the best way to connect with others and shed one’s inhibitions as it takes you away from the mundane routine to a fairyland. I will strongly recommend this to all of you, if you ever get an opportunity to do a theater play.
Q. Family seems to be an integral part of your life. How do you navigate the demands of your professional career while prioritizing your familial responsibilities?
A. I am blessed with two brilliant sons who have always stood by me like a rock and helped me in my entrepreneur journey. My elder son is from IIT Delhi and IIM Ahmedabad, and the younger one is from ISB Hyderabad. I have tried to instill a good value system in my family.
Q. What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs, athletes, and philanthropists who aim to make a positive impact on society while pursuing their passions?
A. The most powerful tool we all have is discipline, which helps you shine through any profession in this world. The biggest investment in life is your sincerity, life Its a beautiful journey and each phase should be enjoyed and cherished.