MAM
In Loving Memory of Bhaskar Das
MUMBAI: The media world mourns the loss of Bhaskar Das, or BD as he was known, a beloved and influential media professional, who passed away this morning at Breach Candy Hospital after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was gracefully advancing through his 72nd year. Despite the doctors’ grim prognosis and the family’s emotional struggle over the past weeks, Bhaskar’s indomitable spirit remained a source of inspiration for many until his final moments.
BD’s impressive career spanned over four decades, beginning as a management trainee in 1980 and culminating in senior leadership roles in some of the industry’s most prestigious organizations. His journey included transformative years at Bennett Coleman and Company Ltd (BCCL), where he played a pivotal role in propelling the company into a powerhouse, alongside his esteemed boss, mentor, and friend, Pradeep Guha, who predeceased him in 2021.
BD’s professional accolades are a testament to his extraordinary talent and dedication. His leadership as group CEO at Zee Media and later as group president & chief strategy officer at Republic TV left an indelible mark on the media landscape. He was known for spearheading dramatic revenue growth and transforming legacy companies into modern success stories. During his tenure at BCCL, he was responsible for an astounding escalation in advertising revenue from Rs 1,560 crore to Rs 4,200 crore, underscoring his unwavering commitment to excellence in media management.
Beyond his impressive resume, Bhaskar was a passionate mentor and educator, dedicating considerable time to the development of future leaders in marketing and media. He served as a professor at various esteemed institutions, including Mica and SPJIMR, imparting knowledge and inspiring students to think critically about the evolving landscape of media and marketing. His profound insight and ability to provoke thought earned him recognition as a sought-after speaker at industry forums and prestigious business schools worldwide.
Bhaskar’s warmth, charm, and infectious smile endeared him to everyone who had the privilege to know him. His profound wisdom and unique perspective on leadership—believing firmly in delivering outcomes rather than mere outputs—left a lasting influence on his teams and associates. Colleagues have described him as an “insight provocateur” and a loyal friend, someone who nurtured the potential in others while remaining a lifelong learner himself.
In the weeks leading to his passing, Bhaskar’s independent film maker wife Shomshuklla Das kept close friends informed of his health struggles, and his resilience during this difficult time highlighted the strength of his character. While his battle with cancer was immense, his hope and confidence in finding a way through remained a guiding light for family and friends.
Bhaskarda – as those who were close to him called him – had one thing to say among friends: “I still feel like the petrol of my life is not yet over. My mind does not know my age. Should I add years to my life or life to my years? I am very clear: I’d rather add life to my years.”
Bhaskarda, you lived your life well in a wholesome manner. Many would love to leave behind a legacy of innovation, mentorship, and an unwavering zest for life like you did. Your contributions to the media industry will be remembered, as will your remarkable ability to connect with those around you.
Rest in peace, Bhaskarda. You will be profoundly missed, and your smile and spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew and loved you.
You leave behind a legacy in the number of professionals who have thanked you on numerous occasions for guiding them through their careers.
(Pictures courtesy: Bhaskar Das’ Instagram)
MAM
Aditya Birla Group squeezes Joe & The Juice into Indian market
Strategic tie-up with Joe & The Juice brings Danish cool and healthy brews to India.
MUMBAI: India’s hospitality scene is about to get a healthy shot of adrenaline, and for once, the “daily grind” sounds like a very good thing. Aditya Birla New Age Hospitality (ABNAH) has officially shaken hands with the Danish cult-favourite Joe & The Juice, marking the conglomerate’s first serious foray into the scalable, fast-casual food sector. It’s a move that suggests the Group is thirsty for more than just industrial dominance; they’re eyeing the premium lifestyle cup, and it’s looking decidedly green.
Founded in Copenhagen in 2002, Joe & The Juice has spent two decades fermenting a global empire, boasting over 480 locations spanning Europe, the US, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Known for its high-octane atmosphere and health-conscious menu, the brand is as much about the “vibe” as it is about the vitamins.
The first Indian flagship store is slated to pop its cork in the second half of 2026.
ABNAH isn’t exactly a newcomer to the table. This partnership adds a fresh layer to a portfolio that already features heavy hitters like:
- International Stars: Yauatcha, Hakkasan, and Nara Thai.
- Home-grown Hits: Cincin, Ode, Waarsa, and Supa San.
ABNAH founder Aryaman Vikram Birla noted that India is currently at a “consumption inflection point.” With rising discretionary spending and a growing appetite for “premiumisation,” the Group is betting big that Joe & The Juice’s mix of health and convenience will hit the sweet spot for aspiring Indian consumers.
For Joe & The Juice, this isn’t just another pin on the map. Joe & The Juice CEO Thomas Noroxe described the move as their “first true strategic entry in Asia,” citing India’s rapidly evolving preference for wellness-focused offerings. With Ambit Capital advising the deal, the partnership aims to leverage the Aditya Birla Group’s massive operational muscle to scale the brand across the country.
While the Group continues to expand into everything from jewellery to paints, this latest venture proves that when it comes to the business of taste, they’re ready to serve up something refreshing.
