Coimbatore, often referred to as the ‘Manchester of South India’, is a city I have visited several times for market assessments. However, this time, I found myself stepping into a distinctly new role and in a new avatar. I was invited to address a gathering of students and teachers at the ‘Transformation India Conclave’ organised by SVVM School. Having rarely addressed school students in the past, this was a new experience, and the thought was slightly daunting as I stood before a sea of eager faces—students from Class V to 12—ready to engage, dialogue, and question! They represented a combination of Gen Z and Gen Alpha—tech-fluent, sharp, confident, and curious, with a heightened sense of global awareness.
Among them was Aindaraya, a remarkably confident 16-year-old who interviewed me. She stood up to someone much older, engaging in a conversation with both politeness and empathy. Her insightful questions reflected the genuine interest of her generation in understanding brands and the complexities of AI and its implications for their lives. It was a reminder that these students were poised to contribute positively to the country.
Following my engagement in Coimbatore, I travelled to Kochi, known as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’. This city pulsates with life, blending old-world charm with modern ambition. Since the 14th century, Kochi has welcomed ships from Asia and Europe, promising growth and prosperity.
Imaging: Deni Lal
At Kochi I had the privilege of delivering a lecture at ET CHRO Conclave that was attended by over 100 top CHROs and thought leaders who had travelled from various parts of India. In this dynamic environment, we explored the evolving landscape of human resources and the importance of fostering a culture that embraces innovation and inclusivity.
In both Coimbatore and Kochi, I was reminded about the significance of connecting with both the leaders of today and the next generation. It offered insights into the complexities of our times and emphasised the importance of listening, learning, and adapting—concepts that are often overlooked in the hullabaloo of life.
Communications professionals are often regarded as the conscience keepers of any organisation, navigating the intricate web of messaging to ensure clarity, transparency, and alignment with core values. In a world increasingly defined by rapid changes and complex narratives, the responsibility of communications professionals has never been more significant. As we face the challenges of modern communication, it is essential to recognise the impact these professionals have in bridging gaps and building trust.
I found myself back in Delhi briefly, a city I often refer to as ‘Dil Ki Dhadkan’. This city, steeped in culture and history, narrates its stories through historians, writers, and poets—in the poignant words of Ghalib and the insightful writings of Khushwant Singh. During this visit, I was invited to give an address on the ‘criticality of reputation’ to communications professionals at a summit organised by PRCAI. I was particularly impressed by speakers such as designer Gaurav Gupta, who discussed cultural moments and creativity, and filmmaker Anvita Dutt, who explored storytelling, women, and cinema. I met numerous communications professionals, or storytellers, spanning generations from Gen X to Gen Z, all of whom took immense pride in their profession. They were buzzing with innovative ideas and fresh perspectives.
These experiences and interactions across three different cities have enriched my understanding of people, talent, creativity, and the myriad opportunities life presents—opportunities that we often overlook amid the hustle and bustle of daily life. Perhaps this is my first step towards truly ‘discovering India’.
Narayanan is former chairman & managing director, Nestle India