This refers to the edit-page article “What Gandhi and Jobs had in common” (November 4) by Madhukar Sabnavis. Clearly, the author takes his profession a little too seriously, viewing all philosophies and ideologies of life through his cracked prism of “brands and marketing”. Or maybe it’s just his cheap thrill at sensationalism, like many of the ad campaigns these days. The parameters used in the comparison by the author could very well be applicable to a Hitler, Al Capone, O J Simpson, Mike Milken or an Osama bin Laden. The author can pick from these in his next attempt to be a writer.
In case this is misconstrued as a hate mail, let me quickly add that this is just to observe how distortions in pursued professions get juxtaposed as distortions of worldviews that stretch beyond the realm of markets, brands, sales, profits, et al.
Ajoy K Das, Kolkata
Madhukar Sabnavis replies:
I take my profession seriously and I am passionate about it. Nothing I wrote was with the intention of sensationalism. If it hurt any sentiment of yours, I am sorry.
However, in my journey of creating brands, I find great inspiration in person brands and what they do right to create a strong “public” connect. I try to learn what they do right and see how I could use those learnings in my world.
I do not want to stir more “venom” by commenting on the other personalities and branding that you mention. My intention through the column has never been to agitate people; it has been to stimulate them positively. Clearly, as a reader, I have failed you and I am again sorry for that.
Also Read
While I respect your right to personal views on the subject and your right to completely disagree with my perspective, I hope you respect me for having one.
Readers should write to:
The Editor, Business Standard,
Nehru House,
4, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg,
New Delhi 110 002,
Fax: (011) 23720201;
letters@bsmail.in
All letters should have a postal address and telephone number