The Freedom to Become: Lessons from Madan Bahal at 70

I first learned the term freedom in a history class at school. Beyond that, I never truly experienced what it meant until I met Mr. Bahal nearly 19 years ago. Madan Sir does not offer textbook lessons on freedom, but for me — and for countless others within and beyond Adfactors — he embodies freedom and transparency.

From my earliest days at Adfactors PR, I had the complete freedom to build my own portfolio — clients as well as team. As I settled into the organisation, Madan Sir presented me with a copy of Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach, inscribed with the message: “Fly as high as you want to, create your own orbit.”

I know this book has been gifted to many Adfactorites over the years. It reflects a culture that encourages you to innovate, to bring forward ideas that set us apart and elevate our craft. The unspoken message is clear: We have your back — go and conquer. That belief is infectious. It is the reason each day at Adfactors PR remains thought-provoking, a place where ideas find their wings.

Over the past 19 years, the world has witnessed events that reshaped industries and societies — the global financial crisis, Covid-19, and now the rise of AI and digital disruption. Through all of it, Madan Sir, along with our Chairman Rajesh Sir, ensured that we stood tall and distinct. Whether it meant reinventing or reimagining ourselves, they were always the first to step forward and lead.

Another enduring lesson from Madan Sir has been the importance of striving to be the best in whatever you do. Being number one is not just an ambition for him — it is a discipline, whether in business performance, client delight, or team empathy. Our BFSI practice has carried this philosophy forward. Today, we have several team members who have been with the practice for over a decade, as well as clients who have partnered with us just as long. We have sustained our leadership position and earned recognition as a leading global financial communications practice.

One special experience that stands out for our team was a visit to Devprayag, the sacred confluence of the Mandakini and Alakananda rivers. The purpose was symbolic — to renew ourselves and prepare for a digital-first future. Since then, we have progressed even further into the AI era, with our CEO, Nijay Nair, playing a pivotal role in building a technology interface that sets us apart and creates a strong moat for the future.

Today, as Sir turns 70, what strikes me most is that he carries the same energy and rigour I have seen in him over the past 19 years. This is what inspired me to create and dedicate a book to him — Madan: A Life, Lightly Sketched — a collection of moments from his life. Through these sketches, I’ve tried to capture the in-between moments — the habits, convictions, and quiet humour that define him. This book is simply my way of saying thank you.

Happy 70th Birthday!