What does one say about Dr. Bhaskar Das? He was an inspiring force of nature — full of energy, full of pep and verve. His presence left an indelible mark on everyone he touched, including me. For me, Bhaskar wasn’t just a professional peer; he was a mentor, a guide, and a friend who played a significant role in shaping my career and my association with industry bodies.
I owe a lot to Bhaskar, both personally and professionally. As the head of Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. (BCCL) and The Times of India, he helped us immensely. But more importantly, he exposed me to the world of industry associations and leadership roles in these bodies. My journey with industry bodies began with him, and he remained an integral part of it ever since.
My first foray into industry bodies was through AdClub (The Advertising Club, Mumbai), where Bhaskar was instrumental in getting me involved. From there, I flourished under his guidance. Bhaskar had this incredible ability to spot potential in people and give them the right platform to grow. He ensured that I climbed the ranks swiftly.
In fact, Bhaskar made sure that I became the President of AdClub, even though it was unconventional for someone like me to be chosen out of turn. It was his firm belief in my capabilities that made it possible. He handpicked me to take on leadership roles in various associations, and that trust changed the trajectory of my involvement in the industry. I’ve always been passionate about these roles, and to this day, I credit Bhaskar for instilling that passion in me.
Every time I have received a Lifetime Achievement Award, I’ve always said it’s Bhaskar I have to thank for where I am today. He was my guiding light in this space, and his relentless energy for industry causes never diminished.
Even after 17 years of being on The Advertising Club Mumbai’s Mancom, Bhaskar remained as passionate as ever. I remember stepping down from the Mancom recently, and he called me to insist I stay on. He said, “You can’t get off. You have to stay on.” His passion and drive were contagious, and he never took no for an answer when it came to serving the industry.
I cherish countless memories with him. One of the most memorable contributions Bhaskar made to the industry was his role in uniting the two biggest festivals in Indian advertising — GoaFest and the Ad Club’s awards. It may sound simple in hindsight, but back then, it was a monumental task.
At the time, there were two polarized associations — the Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI) running GoaFest and The Advertising Club Mumbai running its awards in Mumbai. Both festivals had their own supporters and creative agencies backing them, and there was considerable resistance to merging the two.
But Bhaskar, with his usual large-heartedness, took the initiative to bring the industry together on one platform in Goa. Along with Madhukar Kamath, he made it happen — a landmark moment in the Indian advertising industry. His charm, sense of humor, and ability to disarm even the most skeptical people played a huge role in this achievement.
I remember accompanying him to meet various creative agency heads to convince them to support a unified festival. It helped that he was the head of The Times of India, but more than that, it was Bhaskar’s personal touch that made all the difference. He had a way of making people feel at ease, often starting conversations with his favorite line: “I am a Daas, I am your Daas” — referring to himself as a humble servant of the industry.
That line, along with his infectious enthusiasm and humility, would break down even the most hostile walls. He made everyone feel valued, respected, and heard. That’s what set him apart.
To me, the unification of the industry’s two biggest festivals remains Bhaskar’s most significant contribution. It wasn’t just about creating one event; it was about fostering a sense of unity and collaboration in an industry that often found itself divided by competing interests.
When you’ve known someone like Bhaskar, you expect the inevitable, but when it actually happens, the grief hits hard. His absence leaves a void that’s impossible to fill.
Today, as we mourn his passing, I reflect on the many fun, surprising, and memorable moments we shared. Bhaskar’s legacy goes beyond his professional accomplishments — it’s in the way he made people feel, the opportunities he created for others, and the joy he brought to every interaction.
Bhaskar Da, you will be deeply missed. Your contributions to the industry will remain unmatched, and your legacy will inspire generations to come. Rest in peace, my friend. You were, and always will be, a guiding light for me and countless others.
Shashi Sinha
CEO – IPG Mediabrands India
Former President – The Advertising Club Mumbai
Industry Veteran & Longtime Friend
