The Three Things, which will create an Impact in the Corporate World on the road to 2010
- By Gautam Nath
Roads are a changing today
In the yesteryears, a road would be this tarred surface taking you from here to there. Usually in your shining Lambretta scooter or as life looked up, in your second hand Fiat (Premier Padmini) or Amby (the stout ol Ambassador). Familiar sight? Gone today.
Roads are still there, but they have joined forces with multi laned highways, subways, over bridges, fly overs, under passes, metro lines, one way streets and more. All a sign of choice, all a sign of the multitude of opportunities available to each of us.
Times have a changed
And so have you, day trips on the spot from Delhi to Mumbai, video conferencing, black berry’s, mobiles, webex, concalls and radio taxis, all a sign of things a changing. The familiar laptop case, no longer a status symbol, a symbol of the highflying executive but converted merely to a symbol of corporate existence. Chargers, a necessary evil. Time, a commodity running out on us.
Lunch, something that flies into your stomach somewhere between meetings, endless cups of tea and coffee – your only friend, the cigarette in the hallway, time a dying breed and family a weekend commodity if you get lucky.
The Boss – just a phone call away
Your subordinates - hiding behind those hideous ring tones that change every Friday
What looms ahead
More of the same, YES! More of the same.
And a resigned realisation, that times have changed and those good ol days ain’t coming back. Lead, follow or get out of the way.
Values that have changed
Loyalty, a thing of folklore
Performance linked bonus, mandatory
The new corporate anthem – Outcomes not efforts
Managers getting younger and younger, everywhere you turn
Women emerging as a strong and growing corporate work force
Marriage, moving into the background and children, slow and steady, not today please.
And The Corporate space
2010, merely three years away
Several years ago, while speaking at a lecture to students at the Delhi School of Economics, and at the Faculty of Management Studies, I pointed out to them about the future being in their hands, about changes to expect in 2010 still far then in the horizon, and we shared estimates such as the follows:
FMCG – a 50% growth
Retailing – A 1000 Billion INR industry
Telecom and ICT – Third largest market in the world
KPO – Employing over 250000 professionals
Entertainment Industry – Over 600 Billion INR
Today, the road is near, and we can read about progress down this path, of more to come, and 2015 becoming a near reality.
And one cannot but read about India as a BRIC nation of the future at every turn.
But what is really changing
The Crystal ball says
Outsourcing – organisations are sizing for focus, shedding non essential tasks and focusing on their key strengths, everything else will get outsourced
The work force – younger, here today gone tomorrow, more immediacies in their needs, instant gratification and a different set of life values
Boundaries – geographies will disappear and client servicing will be the new mantra. It’s all about target group orientation. Travel & technology being man’s best friends here.
But is there a moral to the story
The future belongs to the youth and they are indeed geared to do wonders in their own immitable way.
But the author would like to end by pointing out three areas not to forget as you move down the road to progress:
1. Your health
2. Your family
3. Your parents
Take it from me, been there, done that.
No more explanations, no more gyan, no elaborations or watching over you, just leave you to work out your own equation for your own inner peace.
The future is yours.
--------------------------------
The Author is Executive Vice President, TNS India, a leading Global group in market intelligence and business counsel. Mr Nath is an alumni of the Faculty of Management Studies and has been associated with Corporate India for over 24 years in various capacities in the field of Market Research, Domestic & International Marketing as well as Corporate Communications and Human Relations. He may be reached at gautam.nath@tns-global.com
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Birth of Birthdays
Birth of Birthdays
(An enlightening article collated by Gautam Nath, Executive Vice President, TNS India)
History of birthday’s
Before humans had a way of keeping time, no one paid much attention to the anniversary of important events, such as birthdays. Only when ancient peoples began taking notice of the moon's cycles, did they pay attention to the changing seasons and the pattern that repeated itself over and over. Eventually, the first calendars were formulated in order to mark time changes and other special days. From this tracking system came the ability to celebrate birthdays and other significant anniversaries the same day each year.
Evidence of birthday observances dates back before the rise of Christianity. In pagan cultures, people feared evil spirits - especially on their birthdays. It was a common belief that evil spirits were more dangerous to a person when he or she experienced a change in their daily life, such as turning a year older. As a result, birthdays were merry occasions celebrated with family and friends, who surrounded the person of honor with laughter and joy in order to protect them from evil. Instead of gifts, most guests brought positive thoughts and happy wishes for the upcoming year.
Birthday Celebrations …
A birthday is considered a special day for the person, and so the person will often get special treatment from friends and family. This is specially true for children who cannot wait for their own special day. In contrast, many adults loathe the reminder that they are continually getting older.
Birthday Traditions Around the World
There are numerous traditions surrounding birthdays, some of which are described below. Two of the most significant factors throughout history, however, have been geographic location and spiritual beliefs.
Africa
Each year, Asante people in Ghana celebrate "krada" (meaning "Soul Day") on the day of the week that they were born. This observance involves a cleansing ritual intended to purify the inner soul. On a person's krada, he or she wakes up early and washes using a special leaf soaked overnight in water. An afternoon feast with family and friends is held in the person’s honor, and the celebrant usually dresses in clothing with a white background.
Latin America
In several Latino cultures, a girl's 15th birthday, called a "Quinceanera", marks her passage into adulthood. This celebration often includes a religious ceremony at church, in which the young lady recognizes her heritage and her spiritual journey. Many Quinceaneras include a candle-lighting ceremony, where a young woman illuminates her parents' candles using the flame of her own candle. In turn, her parents light the candles of their parents, and so on.
Mexican birthday celebrations feature piñatas filled with candy and small toys. At birthday parties, children take turns hitting the piñata, a hollow figure shaped like an animal, flower, automobile, or other object that is suspended from the ceiling. While blindfolded, kids hit the piñata with a stick until it breaks open. When the treasures rain down on the floor, everyone scrambles to collect them. People believe that the child who breaks open the piñata will have good luck.
Children in Argentina receive pulls on the earlobe for their birthday. Traditionally, they get one pull for each year of their life.
Middle East
Egyptian birthday parties are filled with dancing and singing when a child turns one year old. Flowers and fruit are used to decorate the party as symbols of life and growth.
In Saudi Arabia, people do not observe birthdays due to spiritual beliefs. Religious holidays and weddings, however, are occasions for great celebration.
At an Israeli child's birthday party, he or she sits in a special chair decorated with fresh flowers and greens. To celebrate the child's age, family and friends gather around the chair, lifting and raising it once for each year of life - plus one more for good luck!
Asia
When Japanese children turn 7, 5, or 3, it is thought to be especially lucky. They are allowed to participate in the upcoming Shichi-go-san (meaning "Seven-Five-Three") Festival, celebrated annually on November 15.
In China, people believe that tigers protect children. Family members bring newborns special food and present them with gifts of clothing or toys decorated with tigers. When a Chinese girl or boy turns one year old, a variety of objects and toys are placed on the floor around the child. According to ancient beliefs, the object that the child chooses is a symbol foreshadowing the profession he or she will pursue in life.
In Hong Kong and some other Chinese communities, special noodles are served for lunch in honor of the birthday child. The noodles are extra-long to symbolize a long life.
Filipino families display blinking colored lights to show that someone is having a birthday at their home. The whole family usually goes to church together to thank God, and a celebration with close family and friends may follow.
In Korea, "Paegil" (the 100th day after a child's birth) is a day of feasting for the child's family. Similarly, on a Korean child’s first birthday, a party called a "Tol" or "Dol" is held.
Europe
In Germany, a children's birthday celebration is called a Geburtstagsparty. Historians attribute Germans with the first birthday parties for kids.
Sending birthday cards is a custom that began in England about 100 years ago. Today, millions of cards are sent around the world each year to wish family and friends a happy birthday.
Another old tradition still practiced by some English people is to make a birthday cake with symbolic objects baked inside. In medieval times, objects such as coins and thimbles were mixed into the batter. People believed that the person who got the coin would be wealthy, while the unlucky finder of the thimble would never marry. Today, small figures, fake coins and small candies are more common. Guests are warned ahead of time as well, so no one injures their teeth or swallows a tiny treasure.
United States of America
Throughout history, Native American tribes have placed significance on milestones in a child's development rather than the day he or she was born. The day children take a first step is cause for just as much rejoicing as when they get married or become parents.
Happy birthday to you ….
Singing "Happy Birthday to You" has also been a long-standing tradition on birthdays as well. It was written by two American sisters in 1893, and has been translated into several languages around the world.
Do you share your birthday with ….. ?
1. Angelina Jolie : June 4
The babe
2. Richard Branson : July 18
Chairman of the Virgin Group of Companies
3. Nelson Mandela : July 18
Freedom In South Africa
4. Rupert Murdoch : March 11
The guy behind the News Corp. media empire
5. Prince Charles : Nov 14
Succesor to the throne
6. Jamie Hall: Sept 2
Regional Managing Director, TNS ALM
7. Britney Spears : December 2
Pop superstar singer of ...Baby One More Time
8. Paris Hilton : Feb 17
Hilton Hotel heiress and star of TV's The Simple Life
9. William Shakespeare : April 23
The famed author of Romeo and Juliet
10. Brad Pitt : Dec 18
Hunky star of Fight Club
11. Tony Cowling: Jan 2
Founder TNS Group
12. David Lowden: Aug 16
CEO, TNS Global
13. Bill Gates – October 28
Founder and head of Microsoft Corporation
14. Benjamin Franklin – Jan 17
America’s most lovable founding father
15. Vincent Van Gogh – March 30
The marvelous painter who cut off his own earlobe
- Ends -
(An enlightening article collated by Gautam Nath, Executive Vice President, TNS India)
History of birthday’s
Before humans had a way of keeping time, no one paid much attention to the anniversary of important events, such as birthdays. Only when ancient peoples began taking notice of the moon's cycles, did they pay attention to the changing seasons and the pattern that repeated itself over and over. Eventually, the first calendars were formulated in order to mark time changes and other special days. From this tracking system came the ability to celebrate birthdays and other significant anniversaries the same day each year.
Evidence of birthday observances dates back before the rise of Christianity. In pagan cultures, people feared evil spirits - especially on their birthdays. It was a common belief that evil spirits were more dangerous to a person when he or she experienced a change in their daily life, such as turning a year older. As a result, birthdays were merry occasions celebrated with family and friends, who surrounded the person of honor with laughter and joy in order to protect them from evil. Instead of gifts, most guests brought positive thoughts and happy wishes for the upcoming year.
Birthday Celebrations …
A birthday is considered a special day for the person, and so the person will often get special treatment from friends and family. This is specially true for children who cannot wait for their own special day. In contrast, many adults loathe the reminder that they are continually getting older.
Birthday Traditions Around the World
There are numerous traditions surrounding birthdays, some of which are described below. Two of the most significant factors throughout history, however, have been geographic location and spiritual beliefs.
Africa
Each year, Asante people in Ghana celebrate "krada" (meaning "Soul Day") on the day of the week that they were born. This observance involves a cleansing ritual intended to purify the inner soul. On a person's krada, he or she wakes up early and washes using a special leaf soaked overnight in water. An afternoon feast with family and friends is held in the person’s honor, and the celebrant usually dresses in clothing with a white background.
Latin America
In several Latino cultures, a girl's 15th birthday, called a "Quinceanera", marks her passage into adulthood. This celebration often includes a religious ceremony at church, in which the young lady recognizes her heritage and her spiritual journey. Many Quinceaneras include a candle-lighting ceremony, where a young woman illuminates her parents' candles using the flame of her own candle. In turn, her parents light the candles of their parents, and so on.
Mexican birthday celebrations feature piñatas filled with candy and small toys. At birthday parties, children take turns hitting the piñata, a hollow figure shaped like an animal, flower, automobile, or other object that is suspended from the ceiling. While blindfolded, kids hit the piñata with a stick until it breaks open. When the treasures rain down on the floor, everyone scrambles to collect them. People believe that the child who breaks open the piñata will have good luck.
Children in Argentina receive pulls on the earlobe for their birthday. Traditionally, they get one pull for each year of their life.
Middle East
Egyptian birthday parties are filled with dancing and singing when a child turns one year old. Flowers and fruit are used to decorate the party as symbols of life and growth.
In Saudi Arabia, people do not observe birthdays due to spiritual beliefs. Religious holidays and weddings, however, are occasions for great celebration.
At an Israeli child's birthday party, he or she sits in a special chair decorated with fresh flowers and greens. To celebrate the child's age, family and friends gather around the chair, lifting and raising it once for each year of life - plus one more for good luck!
Asia
When Japanese children turn 7, 5, or 3, it is thought to be especially lucky. They are allowed to participate in the upcoming Shichi-go-san (meaning "Seven-Five-Three") Festival, celebrated annually on November 15.
In China, people believe that tigers protect children. Family members bring newborns special food and present them with gifts of clothing or toys decorated with tigers. When a Chinese girl or boy turns one year old, a variety of objects and toys are placed on the floor around the child. According to ancient beliefs, the object that the child chooses is a symbol foreshadowing the profession he or she will pursue in life.
In Hong Kong and some other Chinese communities, special noodles are served for lunch in honor of the birthday child. The noodles are extra-long to symbolize a long life.
Filipino families display blinking colored lights to show that someone is having a birthday at their home. The whole family usually goes to church together to thank God, and a celebration with close family and friends may follow.
In Korea, "Paegil" (the 100th day after a child's birth) is a day of feasting for the child's family. Similarly, on a Korean child’s first birthday, a party called a "Tol" or "Dol" is held.
Europe
In Germany, a children's birthday celebration is called a Geburtstagsparty. Historians attribute Germans with the first birthday parties for kids.
Sending birthday cards is a custom that began in England about 100 years ago. Today, millions of cards are sent around the world each year to wish family and friends a happy birthday.
Another old tradition still practiced by some English people is to make a birthday cake with symbolic objects baked inside. In medieval times, objects such as coins and thimbles were mixed into the batter. People believed that the person who got the coin would be wealthy, while the unlucky finder of the thimble would never marry. Today, small figures, fake coins and small candies are more common. Guests are warned ahead of time as well, so no one injures their teeth or swallows a tiny treasure.
United States of America
Throughout history, Native American tribes have placed significance on milestones in a child's development rather than the day he or she was born. The day children take a first step is cause for just as much rejoicing as when they get married or become parents.
Happy birthday to you ….
Singing "Happy Birthday to You" has also been a long-standing tradition on birthdays as well. It was written by two American sisters in 1893, and has been translated into several languages around the world.
Do you share your birthday with ….. ?
1. Angelina Jolie : June 4
The babe
2. Richard Branson : July 18
Chairman of the Virgin Group of Companies
3. Nelson Mandela : July 18
Freedom In South Africa
4. Rupert Murdoch : March 11
The guy behind the News Corp. media empire
5. Prince Charles : Nov 14
Succesor to the throne
6. Jamie Hall: Sept 2
Regional Managing Director, TNS ALM
7. Britney Spears : December 2
Pop superstar singer of ...Baby One More Time
8. Paris Hilton : Feb 17
Hilton Hotel heiress and star of TV's The Simple Life
9. William Shakespeare : April 23
The famed author of Romeo and Juliet
10. Brad Pitt : Dec 18
Hunky star of Fight Club
11. Tony Cowling: Jan 2
Founder TNS Group
12. David Lowden: Aug 16
CEO, TNS Global
13. Bill Gates – October 28
Founder and head of Microsoft Corporation
14. Benjamin Franklin – Jan 17
America’s most lovable founding father
15. Vincent Van Gogh – March 30
The marvelous painter who cut off his own earlobe
- Ends -
Birth of Birthdays
Birth of Birthdays
(An enlightening article collated by Gautam Nath, Executive Vice President, TNS India)
History of birthday’s
Before humans had a way of keeping time, no one paid much attention to the anniversary of important events, such as birthdays. Only when ancient peoples began taking notice of the moon's cycles, did they pay attention to the changing seasons and the pattern that repeated itself over and over. Eventually, the first calendars were formulated in order to mark time changes and other special days. From this tracking system came the ability to celebrate birthdays and other significant anniversaries the same day each year.
Evidence of birthday observances dates back before the rise of Christianity. In pagan cultures, people feared evil spirits - especially on their birthdays. It was a common belief that evil spirits were more dangerous to a person when he or she experienced a change in their daily life, such as turning a year older. As a result, birthdays were merry occasions celebrated with family and friends, who surrounded the person of honor with laughter and joy in order to protect them from evil. Instead of gifts, most guests brought positive thoughts and happy wishes for the upcoming year.
Birthday Celebrations …
A birthday is considered a special day for the person, and so the person will often get special treatment from friends and family. This is specially true for children who cannot wait for their own special day. In contrast, many adults loathe the reminder that they are continually getting older.
Birthday Traditions Around the World
There are numerous traditions surrounding birthdays, some of which are described below. Two of the most significant factors throughout history, however, have been geographic location and spiritual beliefs.
Africa
Each year, Asante people in Ghana celebrate "krada" (meaning "Soul Day") on the day of the week that they were born. This observance involves a cleansing ritual intended to purify the inner soul. On a person's krada, he or she wakes up early and washes using a special leaf soaked overnight in water. An afternoon feast with family and friends is held in the person’s honor, and the celebrant usually dresses in clothing with a white background.
Latin America
In several Latino cultures, a girl's 15th birthday, called a "Quinceanera", marks her passage into adulthood. This celebration often includes a religious ceremony at church, in which the young lady recognizes her heritage and her spiritual journey. Many Quinceaneras include a candle-lighting ceremony, where a young woman illuminates her parents' candles using the flame of her own candle. In turn, her parents light the candles of their parents, and so on.
Mexican birthday celebrations feature piñatas filled with candy and small toys. At birthday parties, children take turns hitting the piñata, a hollow figure shaped like an animal, flower, automobile, or other object that is suspended from the ceiling. While blindfolded, kids hit the piñata with a stick until it breaks open. When the treasures rain down on the floor, everyone scrambles to collect them. People believe that the child who breaks open the piñata will have good luck.
Children in Argentina receive pulls on the earlobe for their birthday. Traditionally, they get one pull for each year of their life.
Middle East
Egyptian birthday parties are filled with dancing and singing when a child turns one year old. Flowers and fruit are used to decorate the party as symbols of life and growth.
In Saudi Arabia, people do not observe birthdays due to spiritual beliefs. Religious holidays and weddings, however, are occasions for great celebration.
At an Israeli child's birthday party, he or she sits in a special chair decorated with fresh flowers and greens. To celebrate the child's age, family and friends gather around the chair, lifting and raising it once for each year of life - plus one more for good luck!
Asia
When Japanese children turn 7, 5, or 3, it is thought to be especially lucky. They are allowed to participate in the upcoming Shichi-go-san (meaning "Seven-Five-Three") Festival, celebrated annually on November 15.
In China, people believe that tigers protect children. Family members bring newborns special food and present them with gifts of clothing or toys decorated with tigers. When a Chinese girl or boy turns one year old, a variety of objects and toys are placed on the floor around the child. According to ancient beliefs, the object that the child chooses is a symbol foreshadowing the profession he or she will pursue in life.
In Hong Kong and some other Chinese communities, special noodles are served for lunch in honor of the birthday child. The noodles are extra-long to symbolize a long life.
Filipino families display blinking colored lights to show that someone is having a birthday at their home. The whole family usually goes to church together to thank God, and a celebration with close family and friends may follow.
In Korea, "Paegil" (the 100th day after a child's birth) is a day of feasting for the child's family. Similarly, on a Korean child’s first birthday, a party called a "Tol" or "Dol" is held.
Europe
In Germany, a children's birthday celebration is called a Geburtstagsparty. Historians attribute Germans with the first birthday parties for kids.
Sending birthday cards is a custom that began in England about 100 years ago. Today, millions of cards are sent around the world each year to wish family and friends a happy birthday.
Another old tradition still practiced by some English people is to make a birthday cake with symbolic objects baked inside. In medieval times, objects such as coins and thimbles were mixed into the batter. People believed that the person who got the coin would be wealthy, while the unlucky finder of the thimble would never marry. Today, small figures, fake coins and small candies are more common. Guests are warned ahead of time as well, so no one injures their teeth or swallows a tiny treasure.
United States of America
Throughout history, Native American tribes have placed significance on milestones in a child's development rather than the day he or she was born. The day children take a first step is cause for just as much rejoicing as when they get married or become parents.
Happy birthday to you ….
Singing "Happy Birthday to You" has also been a long-standing tradition on birthdays as well. It was written by two American sisters in 1893, and has been translated into several languages around the world.
Do you share your birthday with ….. ?
1. Angelina Jolie : June 4
The babe
2. Richard Branson : July 18
Chairman of the Virgin Group of Companies
3. Nelson Mandela : July 18
Freedom In South Africa
4. Rupert Murdoch : March 11
The guy behind the News Corp. media empire
5. Prince Charles : Nov 14
Succesor to the throne
6. Jamie Hall: Sept 2
Regional Managing Director, TNS ALM
7. Britney Spears : December 2
Pop superstar singer of ...Baby One More Time
8. Paris Hilton : Feb 17
Hilton Hotel heiress and star of TV's The Simple Life
9. William Shakespeare : April 23
The famed author of Romeo and Juliet
10. Brad Pitt : Dec 18
Hunky star of Fight Club
11. Tony Cowling: Jan 2
Founder TNS Group
12. David Lowden: Aug 16
CEO, TNS Global
13. Bill Gates – October 28
Founder and head of Microsoft Corporation
14. Benjamin Franklin – Jan 17
America’s most lovable founding father
15. Vincent Van Gogh – March 30
The marvelous painter who cut off his own earlobe
- Ends -
History of birthday’s
Before humans had a way of keeping time, no one paid much attention to the anniversary of important events, such as birthdays. Only when ancient peoples began taking notice of the moon's cycles, did they pay attention to the changing seasons and the pattern that repeated itself over and over. Eventually, the first calendars were formulated in order to mark time changes and other special days. From this tracking system came the ability to celebrate birthdays and other significant anniversaries the same day each year.
Evidence of birthday observances dates back before the rise of Christianity. In pagan cultures, people feared evil spirits - especially on their birthdays. It was a common belief that evil spirits were more dangerous to a person when he or she experienced a change in their daily life, such as turning a year older. As a result, birthdays were merry occasions celebrated with family and friends, who surrounded the person of honor with laughter and joy in order to protect them from evil. Instead of gifts, most guests brought positive thoughts and happy wishes for the upcoming year.
Birthday Celebrations …
A birthday is considered a special day for the person, and so the person will often get special treatment from friends and family. This is specially true for children who cannot wait for their own special day. In contrast, many adults loathe the reminder that they are continually getting older.
Birthday Traditions Around the World
There are numerous traditions surrounding birthdays, some of which are described below. Two of the most significant factors throughout history, however, have been geographic location and spiritual beliefs.
Africa
Each year, Asante people in Ghana celebrate "krada" (meaning "Soul Day") on the day of the week that they were born. This observance involves a cleansing ritual intended to purify the inner soul. On a person's krada, he or she wakes up early and washes using a special leaf soaked overnight in water. An afternoon feast with family and friends is held in the person’s honor, and the celebrant usually dresses in clothing with a white background.
Latin America
In several Latino cultures, a girl's 15th birthday, called a "Quinceanera", marks her passage into adulthood. This celebration often includes a religious ceremony at church, in which the young lady recognizes her heritage and her spiritual journey. Many Quinceaneras include a candle-lighting ceremony, where a young woman illuminates her parents' candles using the flame of her own candle. In turn, her parents light the candles of their parents, and so on.
Mexican birthday celebrations feature piñatas filled with candy and small toys. At birthday parties, children take turns hitting the piñata, a hollow figure shaped like an animal, flower, automobile, or other object that is suspended from the ceiling. While blindfolded, kids hit the piñata with a stick until it breaks open. When the treasures rain down on the floor, everyone scrambles to collect them. People believe that the child who breaks open the piñata will have good luck.
Children in Argentina receive pulls on the earlobe for their birthday. Traditionally, they get one pull for each year of their life.
Middle East
Egyptian birthday parties are filled with dancing and singing when a child turns one year old. Flowers and fruit are used to decorate the party as symbols of life and growth.
In Saudi Arabia, people do not observe birthdays due to spiritual beliefs. Religious holidays and weddings, however, are occasions for great celebration.
At an Israeli child's birthday party, he or she sits in a special chair decorated with fresh flowers and greens. To celebrate the child's age, family and friends gather around the chair, lifting and raising it once for each year of life - plus one more for good luck!
Asia
When Japanese children turn 7, 5, or 3, it is thought to be especially lucky. They are allowed to participate in the upcoming Shichi-go-san (meaning "Seven-Five-Three") Festival, celebrated annually on November 15.
In China, people believe that tigers protect children. Family members bring newborns special food and present them with gifts of clothing or toys decorated with tigers. When a Chinese girl or boy turns one year old, a variety of objects and toys are placed on the floor around the child. According to ancient beliefs, the object that the child chooses is a symbol foreshadowing the profession he or she will pursue in life.
In Hong Kong and some other Chinese communities, special noodles are served for lunch in honor of the birthday child. The noodles are extra-long to symbolize a long life.
Filipino families display blinking colored lights to show that someone is having a birthday at their home. The whole family usually goes to church together to thank God, and a celebration with close family and friends may follow.
In Korea, "Paegil" (the 100th day after a child's birth) is a day of feasting for the child's family. Similarly, on a Korean child’s first birthday, a party called a "Tol" or "Dol" is held.
Europe
In Germany, a children's birthday celebration is called a Geburtstagsparty. Historians attribute Germans with the first birthday parties for kids.
Sending birthday cards is a custom that began in England about 100 years ago. Today, millions of cards are sent around the world each year to wish family and friends a happy birthday.
Another old tradition still practiced by some English people is to make a birthday cake with symbolic objects baked inside. In medieval times, objects such as coins and thimbles were mixed into the batter. People believed that the person who got the coin would be wealthy, while the unlucky finder of the thimble would never marry. Today, small figures, fake coins and small candies are more common. Guests are warned ahead of time as well, so no one injures their teeth or swallows a tiny treasure.
United States of America
Throughout history, Native American tribes have placed significance on milestones in a child's development rather than the day he or she was born. The day children take a first step is cause for just as much rejoicing as when they get married or become parents.
Happy birthday to you ….
Singing "Happy Birthday to You" has also been a long-standing tradition on birthdays as well. It was written by two American sisters in 1893, and has been translated into several languages around the world.
Do you share your birthday with ….. ?
1. Angelina Jolie : June 4
The babe
2. Richard Branson : July 18
Chairman of the Virgin Group of Companies
3. Nelson Mandela : July 18
Freedom In South Africa
4. Rupert Murdoch : March 11
The guy behind the News Corp. media empire
5. Prince Charles : Nov 14
Succesor to the throne
6. Jamie Hall: Sept 2
Regional Managing Director, TNS ALM
7. Britney Spears : December 2
Pop superstar singer of ...Baby One More Time
8. Paris Hilton : Feb 17
Hilton Hotel heiress and star of TV's The Simple Life
9. William Shakespeare : April 23
The famed author of Romeo and Juliet
10. Brad Pitt : Dec 18
Hunky star of Fight Club
11. Tony Cowling: Jan 2
Founder TNS Group
12. David Lowden: Aug 16
CEO, TNS Global
13. Bill Gates – October 28
Founder and head of Microsoft Corporation
14. Benjamin Franklin – Jan 17
America’s most lovable founding father
15. Vincent Van Gogh – March 30
The marvelous painter who cut off his own earlobe
- Ends -
Another day another Dollar
‘Another Day, Another Dollar’
- The Corporate Giant -
(Article by Gautam Nath, Executive Vice President, TNS India, a leading Global market research and information Group)
06.00 a.m. and the alarm went off.
Another day another dollar!
Up he sprang from his bed and Ramesh was hitting the shower while the coffee percolator did its job.
Sipping his coffee 10 minutes later, Ramesh quickly tapped his laptop, which was forever on to see last nights final stock market figures in London. Our stock is up 13%, good he thought, that would be news for the Board when we meet this morning.
Donning his Tuscan Verve track outfit, his Adidas and his Apple Ipod, off he went to Joggers Park and was soon in another world. The sunrise was just breaking and the previous nights dew about to fade. By 07.00 a.m., there would be just too many Joggers for him to keep his pace so he stepped up the gas and his Adidas took flight. 5 laps around the 2-mile track and he was done for the day.
Who am I meeting for lunch today he wondered? Oh yes! Mr. Ambani about the new project. That would be nice; he always has a good story or two to say. Never a dull moment and never a deal below a Million. Aah! Should be a good day today.
“Good morning Ramesh” called out Jyoti his neighbour. An actress and a model, she was always sipping lemon tea on her balcony as he returned from his jog. Are you coming to my party tonight? She cooed, oozing Oomph! and other
physical assets as she leaned on her railing. Boy! He thought, another evening of hedonistic film world decadence, I could do without. “Lets see Jyoti, what the day brings” he diplomatically responded and went up the stairs two at a time.
SSS and soon he was in the car on the way to Flurry’s where he was having breakfast with Jon who was his reporting senior and mentor. We will settle the opening of our new office in Sri Lanka he thought. And I have the right man selected for the job. Praveen would be just the right person and I have groomed him into shape. Jon was already there, his crisp white shirt, his camel linen trousers and casual Hush Puppy moccasins. Ramesh felt pride as he approached, Wow! The man is 50 but looks not a day over 40.
They had worked together for the last 20 years and Jon was greatly responsible for grooming Ramesh to take over the mantle as the Managing Director two years ago. What a roller coaster ride, it had been. We opened 4 new offices, increased our turnover by 200% and through our Offshore Research Centre were servicing over 15 of our overseas offices. Quite an achievement he thought, as he pulled up a chair and was shaking Jon’s firm hand.
Eggs and Baccy and we are all wakey wakey.
Conversation was pleasant as usual, Jon the avid sports fan, had been following the latest World Cup series and had many comment to make. They called about the Brazil chances given the way Germany was playing and lost track of time when his mobile broke the dialogue with its loud ring.
It was Sandra from the office, his highly efficient office assistant, who was just priceless. For everything else, there’s Master Card.
As Ramesh listened, he was advised of his appointments for the day. 10 O’ clock - the Board Meeting, 12 O’ clock -meeting the new staff at the Offshore Centre. 1.30 lunch -with Anil, 3 O’clock - a video conference call with Dan, CEO of the Group, Jerry the Regional Managing Director and Will the HR Director. They had to make the investment decision on opening of the new Tony Capital Academy of Excellence. A 50 million dollar investment but one that would be worth its weight in gold, a few years down the line. The call done, he waved good-bye to Jon and was on his way to the office.
The Board Meeting was pleasant, not too much to argue and everyone left feeling happy about the latest stock prices. Keep it up Ramesh they said, your team of managers are among the best in the world.
There was lunch with Anil, he surprisingly was in a good mood having just returned from the Cannes Film Festival and there was no reference to any family issues. The Roast Ribs and Chablis would have made any man forget even worser things.
They parted having signed on to conduct a customer satisfaction study among his dealers, an All India project that would see an investment of over a Million Dollars but increase sales though efficient management to the tune of 50 million. Promising to come over for a game of golf it was back to the office for the next appointment.
This Videoconference technology has saved the corporate world such time and money, he thought as Naresh was helping set up the connection and soon he was on the air. 4 people in 4 different continents simultaneously on screen and able to dialogue. Yes truly a technological advancement.
After debating for an hour about various issues, they decided to press the green button and it was All Signals Go!
And then the mobile rang once again, it was a frantic call from Delhi and an emergency MRSI meeting had been called for that very evening. Said Panther, over the phone; ‘Ramesh your presence is critical to this meeting, you just have to make it here’.
Before the phone call was over, Ramesh was already in his car and instructing Sandra to call the airport to book his seat and was soon in the air. Appreciative of the hot cuppa that Bonsita, the young hostess served him in Business Class, he rested a bit.
The limo was there to greet him and by 7 pm Ramesh was in the Boardroom at the Grand Hyatt calling the shots. Decisions, decisions.
By 9.30, he was back in the air catching a few winks and recording some thoughts on his Dictaphone. Ismail was waiting with a cold towel and a Red Bull.
The bell tolled 12 just as he walked up the stairs; he could hear Eric Clapton strumming his strings at Jyoti's, laughter and clinking of glasses followed. Nimble footed, he managed to pass by without being stopped. The party’s happening it seems he thought while he unlocked his door and turned up
the lights.
A Dry Martini, catching up on CNBC for half an hour and Ramesh turned in for the night.
Tomorrows another day, and another Dollar!
- The Corporate Giant -
(Article by Gautam Nath, Executive Vice President, TNS India, a leading Global market research and information Group)
06.00 a.m. and the alarm went off.
Another day another dollar!
Up he sprang from his bed and Ramesh was hitting the shower while the coffee percolator did its job.
Sipping his coffee 10 minutes later, Ramesh quickly tapped his laptop, which was forever on to see last nights final stock market figures in London. Our stock is up 13%, good he thought, that would be news for the Board when we meet this morning.
Donning his Tuscan Verve track outfit, his Adidas and his Apple Ipod, off he went to Joggers Park and was soon in another world. The sunrise was just breaking and the previous nights dew about to fade. By 07.00 a.m., there would be just too many Joggers for him to keep his pace so he stepped up the gas and his Adidas took flight. 5 laps around the 2-mile track and he was done for the day.
Who am I meeting for lunch today he wondered? Oh yes! Mr. Ambani about the new project. That would be nice; he always has a good story or two to say. Never a dull moment and never a deal below a Million. Aah! Should be a good day today.
“Good morning Ramesh” called out Jyoti his neighbour. An actress and a model, she was always sipping lemon tea on her balcony as he returned from his jog. Are you coming to my party tonight? She cooed, oozing Oomph! and other
physical assets as she leaned on her railing. Boy! He thought, another evening of hedonistic film world decadence, I could do without. “Lets see Jyoti, what the day brings” he diplomatically responded and went up the stairs two at a time.
SSS and soon he was in the car on the way to Flurry’s where he was having breakfast with Jon who was his reporting senior and mentor. We will settle the opening of our new office in Sri Lanka he thought. And I have the right man selected for the job. Praveen would be just the right person and I have groomed him into shape. Jon was already there, his crisp white shirt, his camel linen trousers and casual Hush Puppy moccasins. Ramesh felt pride as he approached, Wow! The man is 50 but looks not a day over 40.
They had worked together for the last 20 years and Jon was greatly responsible for grooming Ramesh to take over the mantle as the Managing Director two years ago. What a roller coaster ride, it had been. We opened 4 new offices, increased our turnover by 200% and through our Offshore Research Centre were servicing over 15 of our overseas offices. Quite an achievement he thought, as he pulled up a chair and was shaking Jon’s firm hand.
Eggs and Baccy and we are all wakey wakey.
Conversation was pleasant as usual, Jon the avid sports fan, had been following the latest World Cup series and had many comment to make. They called about the Brazil chances given the way Germany was playing and lost track of time when his mobile broke the dialogue with its loud ring.
It was Sandra from the office, his highly efficient office assistant, who was just priceless. For everything else, there’s Master Card.
As Ramesh listened, he was advised of his appointments for the day. 10 O’ clock - the Board Meeting, 12 O’ clock -meeting the new staff at the Offshore Centre. 1.30 lunch -with Anil, 3 O’clock - a video conference call with Dan, CEO of the Group, Jerry the Regional Managing Director and Will the HR Director. They had to make the investment decision on opening of the new Tony Capital Academy of Excellence. A 50 million dollar investment but one that would be worth its weight in gold, a few years down the line. The call done, he waved good-bye to Jon and was on his way to the office.
The Board Meeting was pleasant, not too much to argue and everyone left feeling happy about the latest stock prices. Keep it up Ramesh they said, your team of managers are among the best in the world.
There was lunch with Anil, he surprisingly was in a good mood having just returned from the Cannes Film Festival and there was no reference to any family issues. The Roast Ribs and Chablis would have made any man forget even worser things.
They parted having signed on to conduct a customer satisfaction study among his dealers, an All India project that would see an investment of over a Million Dollars but increase sales though efficient management to the tune of 50 million. Promising to come over for a game of golf it was back to the office for the next appointment.
This Videoconference technology has saved the corporate world such time and money, he thought as Naresh was helping set up the connection and soon he was on the air. 4 people in 4 different continents simultaneously on screen and able to dialogue. Yes truly a technological advancement.
After debating for an hour about various issues, they decided to press the green button and it was All Signals Go!
And then the mobile rang once again, it was a frantic call from Delhi and an emergency MRSI meeting had been called for that very evening. Said Panther, over the phone; ‘Ramesh your presence is critical to this meeting, you just have to make it here’.
Before the phone call was over, Ramesh was already in his car and instructing Sandra to call the airport to book his seat and was soon in the air. Appreciative of the hot cuppa that Bonsita, the young hostess served him in Business Class, he rested a bit.
The limo was there to greet him and by 7 pm Ramesh was in the Boardroom at the Grand Hyatt calling the shots. Decisions, decisions.
By 9.30, he was back in the air catching a few winks and recording some thoughts on his Dictaphone. Ismail was waiting with a cold towel and a Red Bull.
The bell tolled 12 just as he walked up the stairs; he could hear Eric Clapton strumming his strings at Jyoti's, laughter and clinking of glasses followed. Nimble footed, he managed to pass by without being stopped. The party’s happening it seems he thought while he unlocked his door and turned up
the lights.
A Dry Martini, catching up on CNBC for half an hour and Ramesh turned in for the night.
Tomorrows another day, and another Dollar!
More Muses from Dr. Jekyll’s Diary
More Muses from Dr. Jekyll’s Diary
By Gautam Nath, Executive Vice President at TNS india
When did you last ……………….
- call up your mom and say hello
- take home flowers for your wife
- take the kids out go carting
- read a bedtime story to your kids
- buy your spouse a gift just like that
When did you last ……………….
- take your dad to the doctors
- take your parents out to dinner
- buy your boss a present
- say thank you for being there to your friends
- indulge in a steam and sauna by yourself
- devour a hot chocolate fudge sundae with no guilt
When did you last ……………….
- give away to charity
- buy a cancer wristband
- go dancing in the rain
- give a day off to your house help with movie tickets
- cook dinner for your wife
- watch a ball game with your husband
- go visit a sick relative
When did you last ……………….
- Wait till you read Mr. Hyde’s Diary…
By Gautam Nath, Executive Vice President at TNS india
When did you last ……………….
- call up your mom and say hello
- take home flowers for your wife
- take the kids out go carting
- read a bedtime story to your kids
- buy your spouse a gift just like that
When did you last ……………….
- take your dad to the doctors
- take your parents out to dinner
- buy your boss a present
- say thank you for being there to your friends
- indulge in a steam and sauna by yourself
- devour a hot chocolate fudge sundae with no guilt
When did you last ……………….
- give away to charity
- buy a cancer wristband
- go dancing in the rain
- give a day off to your house help with movie tickets
- cook dinner for your wife
- watch a ball game with your husband
- go visit a sick relative
When did you last ……………….
- Wait till you read Mr. Hyde’s Diary…
More Muses from Dr. Jekyll’s Diary
By Gautam Nath, Executive Vice President at TNS india
When did you last ……………….
- call up your mom and say hello
- take home flowers for your wife
- take the kids out go carting
- read a bedtime story to your kids
- buy your spouse a gift just like that
When did you last ……………….
- take your dad to the doctors
- take your parents out to dinner
- buy your boss a present
- say thank you for being there to your friends
- indulge in a steam and sauna by yourself
- devour a hot chocolate fudge sundae with no guilt
When did you last ……………….
- give away to charity
- buy a cancer wristband
- go dancing in the rain
- give a day off to your house help with movie tickets
- cook dinner for your wife
- watch a ball game with your husband
- go visit a sick relative
When did you last ……………….
- Wait till you read Mr. Hyde’s Diary…
By Gautam Nath, Executive Vice President at TNS india
When did you last ……………….
- call up your mom and say hello
- take home flowers for your wife
- take the kids out go carting
- read a bedtime story to your kids
- buy your spouse a gift just like that
When did you last ……………….
- take your dad to the doctors
- take your parents out to dinner
- buy your boss a present
- say thank you for being there to your friends
- indulge in a steam and sauna by yourself
- devour a hot chocolate fudge sundae with no guilt
When did you last ……………….
- give away to charity
- buy a cancer wristband
- go dancing in the rain
- give a day off to your house help with movie tickets
- cook dinner for your wife
- watch a ball game with your husband
- go visit a sick relative
When did you last ……………….
- Wait till you read Mr. Hyde’s Diary…
Dr Jekyll's Diary
Muses from Dr. Jekyll’s Diary
By Gautam Nath – Executive Vice President, TNS India
Man is basically good, he means well, protects his family and strives hard to be successful for self actualization and to provide for his loved ones - man is eager to learn and works hard to acquire new knowledge and experiences – man is also an explorer and you will find man in all corners of the earth. Man is happy on the road and man is happy at home. Man loves the good things of life and loves to be pampered once in a while. Good food, good wine, a good cigar, a good book or a good movie, all appeal to man. Men love cooking or imaging they can cook. Men love gadgets, men love cars, men love machinery – if man can go to the moon, he will go there – men love taking risks and experimentation, they are inquisitive, want to seek and discover - man is good.
Women, on the other hand, are truly nature’s gift to mankind. Women nurture, women nest, women bake women sew, women tend, women cuddle, women cry, women worry and women care. Women are not just a rib of a man, women make or break a man, Women nurse, women feed, women bear children, women heal and women touch – women warm the coldest of places, women make homes in the face of extreme. Women likes softness, gentleness, soothing, calm, fragrance and flowery – women can do anything, women are everywhere, in all walks of life, women find answers, women ask questions. Women love, women save, women have intuition and foresight. Women diet, women dye, women moisturize, women cosmetise, women dress and women accessorize - women are good
Both men and women complement each other, both need each other and both can happily live together forever.
Wait till you read Dr. Hyde’s Diary…
By Gautam Nath – Executive Vice President, TNS India
Man is basically good, he means well, protects his family and strives hard to be successful for self actualization and to provide for his loved ones - man is eager to learn and works hard to acquire new knowledge and experiences – man is also an explorer and you will find man in all corners of the earth. Man is happy on the road and man is happy at home. Man loves the good things of life and loves to be pampered once in a while. Good food, good wine, a good cigar, a good book or a good movie, all appeal to man. Men love cooking or imaging they can cook. Men love gadgets, men love cars, men love machinery – if man can go to the moon, he will go there – men love taking risks and experimentation, they are inquisitive, want to seek and discover - man is good.
Women, on the other hand, are truly nature’s gift to mankind. Women nurture, women nest, women bake women sew, women tend, women cuddle, women cry, women worry and women care. Women are not just a rib of a man, women make or break a man, Women nurse, women feed, women bear children, women heal and women touch – women warm the coldest of places, women make homes in the face of extreme. Women likes softness, gentleness, soothing, calm, fragrance and flowery – women can do anything, women are everywhere, in all walks of life, women find answers, women ask questions. Women love, women save, women have intuition and foresight. Women diet, women dye, women moisturize, women cosmetise, women dress and women accessorize - women are good
Both men and women complement each other, both need each other and both can happily live together forever.
Wait till you read Dr. Hyde’s Diary…
Welcome to the Kingdom of Heaven
They said it was the land of Eternal peace and we were immediately attracted. In this world of chaos and anarchy, terrorism and the rat race, these words sounded like an orchestra to our ears. ‘Eternal Peace”, was it a myth? was it a reality? or were we mere mortals tugging at invisible hope.
On this earth, they call it Bhutan and so we stood, all ready and packed, mandatory duties like tickets, leave applications, green chili sauce and foreign exchange completed, off we went.
There are few ways to get to Bhutan, by air via the sole Airline Druk Air, which can connect you from India, Nepal and Thailand. Being exclusive, the tickets are premium priced compared to fares for similar distances. The alternate route, which suits Indian nationals, is via road from West Bengal.
Choosing that track, we spent a week exploring the hills of Sikkim and the wildlife park at Gorumara (another day, another story) and were soon whizzing down the National Highway towards Bhutan. The border town of Phutsueling greets you as you cross the border of Siliguri District in West Bengal and, Lo and behold, you are in Bhutan. No tourist is allowed to enter and tour the country without arrangements being made by Bhutanese travel agent and without having a guide with you for the duration of the visit. Our guide Dorji picked us up in West Bengal in their Toyota and accompanied us the entire week showing us the sights.
The first thing you notice as you cross the border is the cleanliness, there is absolutely no rubbish or litter on the streets and this is indeed a welcome sight for those coming from across the border. But we hadn’t seen nothing yet. Read on and share our dream.
Phutsueling was just the foothills and soon we were off, a 6 hours drive to Thimphu, the capital city. In less than 10 minutes, we had left the town and to the music of Lobo, we sailed off into the mountains. Most of Bhutan is in the mountains so if you have a weak constitution, best read on but don’t pack your bags yet. The road was smooth and well maintained and the journey was very relaxing. Wide mountain ranges welcomed us as we went winding up the sides and lush green Birch and Popular trees waved as we passed. The air was cool, clean and rejuvenating. Soon last nights Chablis stopped singing and it was Lobo all the way.
Dorji, our guide, then sprang it upon us. ‘Bhutan is a no smoking country’ – What? Falling off our seats. Yes he stated, it’s punishable with a 3 months prison stay, which further deflated, our waning spirits. Hah! But the silver lining – Tourists do get some slack and are able to indulge within the confines of the hotel but not out in public. Having made our peace, we tuned back to Lobo and were on our way. Tentatively, an hour later one asked the other Big One – Dorji”, I hope we get non-vegetarian food here” – with bated breath, one waited for the response and he said sure its all available except in the first month and the third month of the Bhutanese calendar. You could cut the silence with a knife before I asked the 64 Million Dollar question. And this month is? – Aarh! The third month!
I was already out of the car before that sentence died, sprinting my way back as fast as possible to the Indian border when he yelled out and said ‘But that doesn’t hold good for tourists, you can get it at your hotel’ – Screech!! We were back in business; every seasoned traveler knows that a happy stomach is half the holiday.
And so we sailed off round the mountains, appreciating the nature and in a few hours the mountain roads suddenly widened and we found ourselves on a 4 laned freshly bitumened highway. Thimphu is coming, said our guide and we sat up to see what was ahead. The town soon appeared, Wow! How quaint, how enchanting and definitely how very clean. A stream of gurgling blue water flowed through the town, buildings - each one an artists dream with intricate wall décor, archways and colours. And the fresh clean air, all indeed peaceful, and heavenly. At one glance, except for the cows missing, we could have been in Switzerland. Our hotel was on a hill overlooking the river and the town and the room was indeed welcoming in its comfort and log finish décor. A sharp nip was flowing in the air and our room heaters were put to good use. We sat on the balcony, savoring a good hot meal and watching the lights of Thimphu winking at us in welcome of what lay ahead.
Bhutan is indeed a country nestled up in the mountains and dotted with Monasteries, Dzongs and Stupas. We soon learned that Monasteries were places of worship which housed a few monks while Dzongs were small fortresses, also places of worship but housing anything between 50 to 300 monks. Stupas, on the other hand, were small stone structures in which religious books and statues were kept
and were intended to emit religious thoughts and peace across the land. Such was the ambience as we drove through the hills dotted with Stupas, each majestic and emitting an aura of peace and serenity.
But the youth remains the youth and off we went pub hopping, enjoying the music, dancing and that night we watched the Football World Cup match over a cool pint and game of snooker. The party continued till the wee hours of the morning and man these Bhutanese youngsters however docile and peaceful during the day can indeed hold their own when it came to partying.
Up bright and early, we caught the morning fresh air and were soon off to Punakha, the country’s old capital, which housed the Punakha Dzong that is the biggest Dzong, built in 1637 and the home of the Chief Monk and his entourage of monks. It was a nice mountain drive and we passed Druk Wangyel Chortenthe where the 3rd Queen has recently built 108 stupas for the peace and prosperity of the people.
The Punakha Dzong usually closed to, was open to tourists in the summer months and we were happy to have the opportunity to
venture inside and get a glimpse of a monk’s life. The prayer room housed gold plated 30-foot high statues of the Lord Buddha as well as some of the revered monks whom the Bhutanese follow.
Much pomp and glory and plush furnishings are common to all prayer rooms in Bhutan’s Monasteries and Dzongs and is reflective of the focus and attention the people put on prayers and their gods. Punakha was also home to the Chimi Lhakhang, which took us a good hours walk from the road. Lama Drukpa Kunley who they call the Mad Monk built this. Intended as a place of worship promising fertility to all who come there, this is one of the country’s well sought after destinations. The Mad Monk is also fabled to be the one who created the ‘Takin’ which is Bhutan’s national animal and not found anywhere else in the world. The head of a goat and the body of a cow. As the story goes, he was very hungry one day and reached a village and asked for food. Thus the villagers gave him a goat and a cow, both of which he devoured. Then he put the skeleton head of the goat on the skeleton
body of the cow, lo and behold! ‘Takin’ was created. We visited the ‘Takin’ Preservation and were amazed at the likeness. One of its kind.
The Mad Monk did not leave us so easily; Dorji our guide took us to see the Tiger’s Nest or Taksang Monastery, Built on the mountain rock face, 900 metres above the valley. We started early as it was a 3-hour hike up the mountainside and reached this exquisite and architectural wonder so high in the sky. Our guide said that the Mad Monk had come over the mountain ranges on a flying tiger to subdue the demons who used to live here and then built this monastery as a result of his victory. Miles in the sky, far from the maddening crowd, housing a group of religious monks, numerous prayer and meditation rooms, we were truly in another world. Watching the young Monk perform some ceremonies whilst we stood by, the world of reality hit us when suddenly from within the Monks robe, a mobile phone began to ring and that too a famous Indian film song had been set as the ring tone. Sheepishly, he dug it out and quickly took a side exit and disappeared into the corridors. Reality indeed!
We visited several other monasteries, an old museum, sat by the blue river water, hiked into tracks in the forest and ate and drank our fill to make it a leisurely relaxed vacation and on the last evening, watched an Archery contest, being their National Sport to round off our experiences. The land was indeed that of Eternal Peace, the people so warm and friendly and everything is so clean and fresh that you could loose yourself for a few years here.
For those who would like to visit, the best season is September to March; the currency used is the Bhutanese Ngultrum, often denoted as BTN, equal in value to the Indian Rupee (through a 1:1 peg), but Indian currency is freely interchangeable.
- Travelss of Gautam Nath, Executive Vice President, TNS India
They said it was the land of Eternal peace and we were immediately attracted. In this world of chaos and anarchy, terrorism and the rat race, these words sounded like an orchestra to our ears. ‘Eternal Peace”, was it a myth? was it a reality? or were we mere mortals tugging at invisible hope.
On this earth, they call it Bhutan and so we stood, all ready and packed, mandatory duties like tickets, leave applications, green chili sauce and foreign exchange completed, off we went.
There are few ways to get to Bhutan, by air via the sole Airline Druk Air, which can connect you from India, Nepal and Thailand. Being exclusive, the tickets are premium priced compared to fares for similar distances. The alternate route, which suits Indian nationals, is via road from West Bengal.
Choosing that track, we spent a week exploring the hills of Sikkim and the wildlife park at Gorumara (another day, another story) and were soon whizzing down the National Highway towards Bhutan. The border town of Phutsueling greets you as you cross the border of Siliguri District in West Bengal and, Lo and behold, you are in Bhutan. No tourist is allowed to enter and tour the country without arrangements being made by Bhutanese travel agent and without having a guide with you for the duration of the visit. Our guide Dorji picked us up in West Bengal in their Toyota and accompanied us the entire week showing us the sights.
The first thing you notice as you cross the border is the cleanliness, there is absolutely no rubbish or litter on the streets and this is indeed a welcome sight for those coming from across the border. But we hadn’t seen nothing yet. Read on and share our dream.
Phutsueling was just the foothills and soon we were off, a 6 hours drive to Thimphu, the capital city. In less than 10 minutes, we had left the town and to the music of Lobo, we sailed off into the mountains. Most of Bhutan is in the mountains so if you have a weak constitution, best read on but don’t pack your bags yet. The road was smooth and well maintained and the journey was very relaxing. Wide mountain ranges welcomed us as we went winding up the sides and lush green Birch and Popular trees waved as we passed. The air was cool, clean and rejuvenating. Soon last nights Chablis stopped singing and it was Lobo all the way.
Dorji, our guide, then sprang it upon us. ‘Bhutan is a no smoking country’ – What? Falling off our seats. Yes he stated, it’s punishable with a 3 months prison stay, which further deflated, our waning spirits. Hah! But the silver lining – Tourists do get some slack and are able to indulge within the confines of the hotel but not out in public. Having made our peace, we tuned back to Lobo and were on our way. Tentatively, an hour later one asked the other Big One – Dorji”, I hope we get non-vegetarian food here” – with bated breath, one waited for the response and he said sure its all available except in the first month and the third month of the Bhutanese calendar. You could cut the silence with a knife before I asked the 64 Million Dollar question. And this month is? – Aarh! The third month!
I was already out of the car before that sentence died, sprinting my way back as fast as possible to the Indian border when he yelled out and said ‘But that doesn’t hold good for tourists, you can get it at your hotel’ – Screech!! We were back in business; every seasoned traveler knows that a happy stomach is half the holiday.
And so we sailed off round the mountains, appreciating the nature and in a few hours the mountain roads suddenly widened and we found ourselves on a 4 laned freshly bitumened highway. Thimphu is coming, said our guide and we sat up to see what was ahead. The town soon appeared, Wow! How quaint, how enchanting and definitely how very clean. A stream of gurgling blue water flowed through the town, buildings - each one an artists dream with intricate wall décor, archways and colours. And the fresh clean air, all indeed peaceful, and heavenly. At one glance, except for the cows missing, we could have been in Switzerland. Our hotel was on a hill overlooking the river and the town and the room was indeed welcoming in its comfort and log finish décor. A sharp nip was flowing in the air and our room heaters were put to good use. We sat on the balcony, savoring a good hot meal and watching the lights of Thimphu winking at us in welcome of what lay ahead.
Bhutan is indeed a country nestled up in the mountains and dotted with Monasteries, Dzongs and Stupas. We soon learned that Monasteries were places of worship which housed a few monks while Dzongs were small fortresses, also places of worship but housing anything between 50 to 300 monks. Stupas, on the other hand, were small stone structures in which religious books and statues were kept
and were intended to emit religious thoughts and peace across the land. Such was the ambience as we drove through the hills dotted with Stupas, each majestic and emitting an aura of peace and serenity.
But the youth remains the youth and off we went pub hopping, enjoying the music, dancing and that night we watched the Football World Cup match over a cool pint and game of snooker. The party continued till the wee hours of the morning and man these Bhutanese youngsters however docile and peaceful during the day can indeed hold their own when it came to partying.
Up bright and early, we caught the morning fresh air and were soon off to Punakha, the country’s old capital, which housed the Punakha Dzong that is the biggest Dzong, built in 1637 and the home of the Chief Monk and his entourage of monks. It was a nice mountain drive and we passed Druk Wangyel Chortenthe where the 3rd Queen has recently built 108 stupas for the peace and prosperity of the people.
The Punakha Dzong usually closed to, was open to tourists in the summer months and we were happy to have the opportunity to
venture inside and get a glimpse of a monk’s life. The prayer room housed gold plated 30-foot high statues of the Lord Buddha as well as some of the revered monks whom the Bhutanese follow.
Much pomp and glory and plush furnishings are common to all prayer rooms in Bhutan’s Monasteries and Dzongs and is reflective of the focus and attention the people put on prayers and their gods. Punakha was also home to the Chimi Lhakhang, which took us a good hours walk from the road. Lama Drukpa Kunley who they call the Mad Monk built this. Intended as a place of worship promising fertility to all who come there, this is one of the country’s well sought after destinations. The Mad Monk is also fabled to be the one who created the ‘Takin’ which is Bhutan’s national animal and not found anywhere else in the world. The head of a goat and the body of a cow. As the story goes, he was very hungry one day and reached a village and asked for food. Thus the villagers gave him a goat and a cow, both of which he devoured. Then he put the skeleton head of the goat on the skeleton
body of the cow, lo and behold! ‘Takin’ was created. We visited the ‘Takin’ Preservation and were amazed at the likeness. One of its kind.
The Mad Monk did not leave us so easily; Dorji our guide took us to see the Tiger’s Nest or Taksang Monastery, Built on the mountain rock face, 900 metres above the valley. We started early as it was a 3-hour hike up the mountainside and reached this exquisite and architectural wonder so high in the sky. Our guide said that the Mad Monk had come over the mountain ranges on a flying tiger to subdue the demons who used to live here and then built this monastery as a result of his victory. Miles in the sky, far from the maddening crowd, housing a group of religious monks, numerous prayer and meditation rooms, we were truly in another world. Watching the young Monk perform some ceremonies whilst we stood by, the world of reality hit us when suddenly from within the Monks robe, a mobile phone began to ring and that too a famous Indian film song had been set as the ring tone. Sheepishly, he dug it out and quickly took a side exit and disappeared into the corridors. Reality indeed!
We visited several other monasteries, an old museum, sat by the blue river water, hiked into tracks in the forest and ate and drank our fill to make it a leisurely relaxed vacation and on the last evening, watched an Archery contest, being their National Sport to round off our experiences. The land was indeed that of Eternal Peace, the people so warm and friendly and everything is so clean and fresh that you could loose yourself for a few years here.
For those who would like to visit, the best season is September to March; the currency used is the Bhutanese Ngultrum, often denoted as BTN, equal in value to the Indian Rupee (through a 1:1 peg), but Indian currency is freely interchangeable.
- Travelss of Gautam Nath, Executive Vice President, TNS India
A New Marketing Jargon is Born
‘A new marketing jargon is born’
- By Gautam Nath
Recalling our days at the Management School, we were taught and
learned all about Marketing and Advertising and have seen our compatriots in Corporate India over the years sing the same old song. The four P’s, the four C’s and the rest of the marketing jargon.
Advertising agencies earlier dealt with the Marketing side of their clients business and focused their attention to handling above the line spends while leaving below the line to the Sales team to handle.
Over years, soon the priority of below the line and one on one marketing began to take up importance and advertising agencies as well as DM agencies started to take an interest and build business models around both above as well as below the line.
But what no one saw and a new terminology for our marketing fraternity is: What about ‘Beside’ the line?
Yes, you heard me right; I am talking about ‘Beside’ the line. That wasn’t termed when we read our Kotlers but it’s shaking the Marketing tree today.
Marketing today is also about ‘Beside’ the line and more and more organisations are budgeting and spending big bucks ‘Beside’ the line.
A strong example of ‘Beside’ the line spend is the entire gamut of initiatives that Corporates take up and call CSR, or Corporate Social Responsibility. This intervention is clearly neither above nor below the line and a fit student of ‘Beside’ the line activity. Funds are usually controlled outside the regular Marketing budgets and in case of large corporations, can add up to Millions of Dollars each year.
TNS recently conducted a Global Corporate Social Responsibility study among automotive and related sectors covering 18 countries and 5 industry sectors which showed us how companies the world over are serious about their Corporate Social Responsibility and that this ‘Beside’ the line activity is becoming a strong tool for the corporate world.
In today’s competing world, where space is crowded and consumers are being hounded by both above the line and below the line media, this strategy is being used more and more by corporations across the globe. ‘Beside’ the line marketing enters the consumers mind through uncluttered space and leaves a far greater and lasting impression. Psychologists have shown the value of being seen as doing Good for Society has a positive rub off on the observers mind about that corporation.
More and more consumers are asking corporations what they are returning back to society and when addressed professionally and in a systematic basis, this activity falls under the ambit of ‘Beside’ the line.
Last month was talking with Nanda, a senior manager at a Diamond export firm based at Surat which had adopted 2 villages nearby and has taken responsibility for providing two things: free medical facilities and free education for children. They had been running these initiatives for the last year. When I asked him about its outcome, he said that it made them proud as much of their labor force came from these two villages and also their US buyer increased their business three fold when they heard about the kind of return to Society this company was involved in.
CSR Europe has over 60 leading Multinational corporations as its members and works towards integrating CSR into the way they run their day-to-day business.
Dipak Jain, Dean, Kellogg School of Management in a recent forum opined as to how today’s Management Education has to make it a necessity to train Socially responsible Global leaders of our future corporations.
‘Beside’ the line marketing is here to stay. Marketing experts need to sit down and review what other activities categorize ‘Beside’ the line and soon we will see the rise in consulting companies offering services to maximize the ‘Beside’ the line effectiveness. The Corporate Boardroom will also be witness to ‘Beside’ the line budgeting on a more professional and regular basis.
The fact that these activities exist is not new and there is a lot of knowledge available on this account, the author’s intention here is to give it a handle and ask for its natural place in our Marketing Books alongwith the jargon of ‘Above’ and ‘Below’ the line.
The Author is Executive Vice President with TNS India, a leading Global Market Research Agency.
- end of document -
A New Marketing Jargon is Born
‘A new marketing jargon is born’
- By Gautam Nath
Recalling our days at the Management School, we were taught and
learned all about Marketing and Advertising and have seen our compatriots in Corporate India over the years sing the same old song. The four P’s, the four C’s and the rest of the marketing jargon.
Advertising agencies earlier dealt with the Marketing side of their clients business and focused their attention to handling above the line spends while leaving below the line to the Sales team to handle.
Over years, soon the priority of below the line and one on one marketing began to take up importance and advertising agencies as well as DM agencies started to take an interest and build business models around both above as well as below the line.
But what no one saw and a new terminology for our marketing fraternity is: What about ‘Beside’ the line?
Yes, you heard me right; I am talking about ‘Beside’ the line. That wasn’t termed when we read our Kotlers but it’s shaking the Marketing tree today.
Marketing today is also about ‘Beside’ the line and more and more organisations are budgeting and spending big bucks ‘Beside’ the line.
A strong example of ‘Beside’ the line spend is the entire gamut of initiatives that Corporates take up and call CSR, or Corporate Social Responsibility. This intervention is clearly neither above nor below the line and a fit student of ‘Beside’ the line activity. Funds are usually controlled outside the regular Marketing budgets and in case of large corporations, can add up to Millions of Dollars each year.
TNS recently conducted a Global Corporate Social Responsibility study among automotive and related sectors covering 18 countries and 5 industry sectors which showed us how companies the world over are serious about their Corporate Social Responsibility and that this ‘Beside’ the line activity is becoming a strong tool for the corporate world.
In today’s competing world, where space is crowded and consumers are being hounded by both above the line and below the line media, this strategy is being used more and more by corporations across the globe. ‘Beside’ the line marketing enters the consumers mind through uncluttered space and leaves a far greater and lasting impression. Psychologists have shown the value of being seen as doing Good for Society has a positive rub off on the observers mind about that corporation.
More and more consumers are asking corporations what they are returning back to society and when addressed professionally and in a systematic basis, this activity falls under the ambit of ‘Beside’ the line.
Last month was talking with Nanda, a senior manager at a Diamond export firm based at Surat which had adopted 2 villages nearby and has taken responsibility for providing two things: free medical facilities and free education for children. They had been running these initiatives for the last year. When I asked him about its outcome, he said that it made them proud as much of their labor force came from these two villages and also their US buyer increased their business three fold when they heard about the kind of return to Society this company was involved in.
CSR Europe has over 60 leading Multinational corporations as its members and works towards integrating CSR into the way they run their day-to-day business.
Dipak Jain, Dean, Kellogg School of Management in a recent forum opined as to how today’s Management Education has to make it a necessity to train Socially responsible Global leaders of our future corporations.
‘Beside’ the line marketing is here to stay. Marketing experts need to sit down and review what other activities categorize ‘Beside’ the line and soon we will see the rise in consulting companies offering services to maximize the ‘Beside’ the line effectiveness. The Corporate Boardroom will also be witness to ‘Beside’ the line budgeting on a more professional and regular basis.
The fact that these activities exist is not new and there is a lot of knowledge available on this account, the author’s intention here is to give it a handle and ask for its natural place in our Marketing Books alongwith the jargon of ‘Above’ and ‘Below’ the line.
The Author is Executive Vice President with TNS India, a leading Global Market Research Agency.
- end of document -
- By Gautam Nath
Recalling our days at the Management School, we were taught and
learned all about Marketing and Advertising and have seen our compatriots in Corporate India over the years sing the same old song. The four P’s, the four C’s and the rest of the marketing jargon.
Advertising agencies earlier dealt with the Marketing side of their clients business and focused their attention to handling above the line spends while leaving below the line to the Sales team to handle.
Over years, soon the priority of below the line and one on one marketing began to take up importance and advertising agencies as well as DM agencies started to take an interest and build business models around both above as well as below the line.
But what no one saw and a new terminology for our marketing fraternity is: What about ‘Beside’ the line?
Yes, you heard me right; I am talking about ‘Beside’ the line. That wasn’t termed when we read our Kotlers but it’s shaking the Marketing tree today.
Marketing today is also about ‘Beside’ the line and more and more organisations are budgeting and spending big bucks ‘Beside’ the line.
A strong example of ‘Beside’ the line spend is the entire gamut of initiatives that Corporates take up and call CSR, or Corporate Social Responsibility. This intervention is clearly neither above nor below the line and a fit student of ‘Beside’ the line activity. Funds are usually controlled outside the regular Marketing budgets and in case of large corporations, can add up to Millions of Dollars each year.
TNS recently conducted a Global Corporate Social Responsibility study among automotive and related sectors covering 18 countries and 5 industry sectors which showed us how companies the world over are serious about their Corporate Social Responsibility and that this ‘Beside’ the line activity is becoming a strong tool for the corporate world.
In today’s competing world, where space is crowded and consumers are being hounded by both above the line and below the line media, this strategy is being used more and more by corporations across the globe. ‘Beside’ the line marketing enters the consumers mind through uncluttered space and leaves a far greater and lasting impression. Psychologists have shown the value of being seen as doing Good for Society has a positive rub off on the observers mind about that corporation.
More and more consumers are asking corporations what they are returning back to society and when addressed professionally and in a systematic basis, this activity falls under the ambit of ‘Beside’ the line.
Last month was talking with Nanda, a senior manager at a Diamond export firm based at Surat which had adopted 2 villages nearby and has taken responsibility for providing two things: free medical facilities and free education for children. They had been running these initiatives for the last year. When I asked him about its outcome, he said that it made them proud as much of their labor force came from these two villages and also their US buyer increased their business three fold when they heard about the kind of return to Society this company was involved in.
CSR Europe has over 60 leading Multinational corporations as its members and works towards integrating CSR into the way they run their day-to-day business.
Dipak Jain, Dean, Kellogg School of Management in a recent forum opined as to how today’s Management Education has to make it a necessity to train Socially responsible Global leaders of our future corporations.
‘Beside’ the line marketing is here to stay. Marketing experts need to sit down and review what other activities categorize ‘Beside’ the line and soon we will see the rise in consulting companies offering services to maximize the ‘Beside’ the line effectiveness. The Corporate Boardroom will also be witness to ‘Beside’ the line budgeting on a more professional and regular basis.
The fact that these activities exist is not new and there is a lot of knowledge available on this account, the author’s intention here is to give it a handle and ask for its natural place in our Marketing Books alongwith the jargon of ‘Above’ and ‘Below’ the line.
The Author is Executive Vice President with TNS India, a leading Global Market Research Agency.
- end of document -
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