“I am humbled by the opportunity to write a tribute about Mr. Bhaskar Das, fondly known as BD. It has been an absolute privilege to have worked with him in the Times of India Group and the Advertising Club.
For those who may have known, Bhaskar was fighting cancer for a few years. When I met him at Goa Fest 2024 in Powai, he told me that the doctors said he had a unique strain that was difficult to cure. When I asked him what it meant, he laughed and said that it could be days, weeks or months. Only a person who lived a full life could face death with that attitude. In the very next breath, he asked me how he can help in building my business or any projects he could be part of. His thirst for knowledge and new experiences never diminished. His zeal for life never reduced.
He has parted with many gems, but the one that has stuck with me all this time is what he told me many years ago - ‘I am a student for life’. This wasn't something he said for effect. He truly lived it. He was like a sponge that absorbed every drop of knowledge. It didn't matter from whom.
He was also a man of fashion. He has gone through many avatars so to speak. He could carry off purple hair, pink jeans and bright shirts. It reflected his personality and passion for life. He was lavish with his praise for anyone who deserved it. No wonder he has so many friends, well wishers and fan following in the industry.
Bhaskar was someone who wanted to be part of the action at all times. He would attend every Ad Club Mancom meeting from his bed, even during his treatment. He organised the MAD Quiz the last two years despite all his personal challenges. Here's a picture I took with him when he stepped out of his home, possibly for the first time post COVID (and treatment) to attend the MAD Quiz. He was always smiling and quick with a joke. His wit was unparalleled and could make even the most 'khadoos' client smile.
His energy was infectious and he brightened every room he entered. He now leaves us with a brighter world thanks to the life he lived. As a celebration of his life, let's all aim to be 'students for life'.
