The media and advertising world has lost one of its most influential figures, as Dr. Bhaskar Das passed away earlier today after a prolonged battle with cancer. A stalwart of India’s media industry, Dr. Das’s demise marks the end of an era shaped by visionary leadership, transformative contributions, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Dr. Das, who initially triumphed over the disease in its early stages, succumbed during the second phase of his battle. He had been hospitalized in critical condition for the past two weeks in Mumbai, where he fought bravely until his last moments.
With a distinguished career spanning over four decades, Dr. Das’s influence on the Indian media landscape was unparalleled. He began his illustrious journey in 1980 as a management trainee at Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. (BCCL), the parent company of The Times of India and The Economic Times. Over the years, he rose to the position of President, during which he was instrumental in elevating the company’s turnover from ₹1,560 crore to a remarkable ₹4,200 crore.
Dr. Das’s leadership extended to several prominent media organizations, including Zee Media, DB Corp, and Republic TV. His colleagues often referred to him as an “insight provocateur,” recognizing his ability to foster innovation and drive transformative change. Throughout his career, he was a catalyst for collaboration and growth, creating opportunities for his teams to excel and evolve in a rapidly changing industry.
Beyond his corporate achievements, Dr. Das was deeply committed to education and mentorship. He devoted over 800 hours to speaking engagements at some of the world’s most prestigious institutions, including Harvard Business School, The Wharton School, MIT, IIMs, MICA, and ISB. As a professor at S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR), he played a pivotal role in shaping thought leadership and advancing the institute’s reputation.
Dr. Das’s passion for academia extended to MICA, Ahmedabad, where he focused on nurturing talent in the Media & Entertainment and Sports sectors. His mentorship left a lasting impression on countless students and professionals, many of whom now carry forward his legacy of excellence and innovation.
His insights on leadership, business strategy, and the evolving media landscape were widely sought after, making him a revered figure both in boardrooms and classrooms.
Dr. Bhaskar Das leaves behind an indelible legacy of innovation, mentorship, and transformative leadership. His contributions to the media industry and academia will continue to inspire generations of leaders to come.
The industry mourns the loss of a visionary leader, and his memory will be cherished as a guiding light for those who follow in his footsteps.
