‘They don’t make them like BD no more’

Neville Bastawalla, SVP & Head - Marketing & On Air Promotions, Sports Channels at Sony Pictures Networks India, talks of the ‘corporate and life lessons’ he gained from Bhaskar Das

by Neville Bastawalla
Published: Jan 15, 2025 1:16 PM | 2 min read

The passing of Bhaskar Das has indeed been a downer as he was ALWAYS A LIVE WIRE.

How can Bhaskar pass away? This was the first 15 minutes after hearing the extremely sad news.

While I did not get to work directly with Bhaskar Das we all knew him well.

Peoples’ person, Master strategist, Network Bhaskar, Workaholic, Friends for Life, Outstanding knowledge , Immaculate English.... few of the things BD was known for.

Well, I heard a lot about Bhaskar Das from my dear friend Bhaskar Gupta who had the great opportunity to work alongside BD at TOI and even Republic TV.

My personal interaction with BD was limited but enlightening, meeting him at the INMA Conference in 2008 at the Beverly Hilton, LA. Still recall the beautiful morning where he buys this young lad coffee and starts chatting away about my work and marketing innovations at Mid-Day.

Bhaskar was wearing this Fantastic Red Adidas track suit working out early morning probably at the hotel. He spoke about staying relevant through innovations and constantly reviewing strategy. Read and evolve is what he also shared with me back then.

BD there is no one like BD. I recall him working relentlessly for the GOA Ad Club events even managing crisis situations with absolute compassion and in a poised manner.

He even visited Sony a year ago talking about MICA, especially wherein now that started us working with Mica closely on a Marketing Case Study.

Hundreds like me are grateful and thankful for the wonderful "corporate and life lessons" that you have taught us and a legacy that you are leaving behind. Rest in Peace Bhaskar Sir.