This advertisement came as shock and that to with a name that is undoubtedly one of the most reputed in India, TATA. The Ad not only gives a wrong message but also makes fun of India’s age-old cultural worth.
Believe me guys! I am not provoking you against TATA (I let that be with Mamata), but at least think about the negative impacts of crappy advertisements have on the society. This print Ad, that appeared in Times Of India on 09.10.08 , clearly asks to shed the cultural ‘avatar’ and embrace the modern.
The Ad does not stop at conveying the message to change, but it mocks at the principles and values that are preserved even in the days of Internet and PDAs. No doubt that we need to be open and learn from every society, religion or country. But do we need to make of fun of those who are happy to be unchanged? Indian values and traditions are praised all over and yet it has shown respect to individual believes and freedom to choose and change. Should this be taken for granted for pure commercial purpose?
The advertisement is of an enterprise that belongs to a well respected business house. Tata has been a pillar of strength of India economy and it continues to be so. Tata group has gained a lot from the ‘Desi’ campaigns, e.g. its famours car ‘Indica’ was promoted strongly of being complete ‘Indian’ car, and its now-famous ‘Nano’ brand is globally recognised as an Indian wonder! Should Tata allow such mixed signals to be sent out across the market? Ridiculing Indian values and promoting brands with the ‘Indian’ tag lines! Huh…I wonder if that Ad was really seen by Mr. Ratan Tata? It doesn’t matter, as long as you have seen and wondered if it was right or wrong?
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