His tasty-and-lead free instant noodles would hit Indian markets next week. He has struck a lucrative deal with Kishore Biyani-led Future Group. Bollywood icon Kader Khan was recently admitted to his Ashram at Haridar. His brand Patanjali Ayurveda can give any multi-national a run for their money. Yet, controversy’s favorite child Baba Ramdev never fails to stress upon his primary passion to serve humanity.
As the ₹5,000 crore company toys with the idea of an IPO, BI India chats up with this Yogi-turned-entrepreneur whose face is enough to power an FMCG brand that’s like no other.
1. You have a huge following. What are the three qualities a leader must possess?
Three qualities of a good leader, to my mind, are (i) Humility; (ii) Motivational skills which may lead us to transformation; and (iii) Courage and faith in one's own vision.
2. Startups complain of the tiring procedures needed to launch a company. How was your experience?
Our main aim was to serve mankind by making our country disease- free with the help of our age old science of Yoga & Ayurveda, which have no side effects. Several problems do arise and we tackle them in the course of serving society vis-a-vis mankind.
3. You are over 50 years old. What keeps you so fit other than yoga?
Besides Yoga, factors that keep me fit are positive approach, simple living, high thinking, balanced food habits and a disciplined lifestyle close to nature.
4. When you look at Indian companies, which are the ones with potential?
We intend to see Indian companies (Swadesi) flourishing by their high quality, low priced hygienic products in the service of mankind.
5. How do you ensure Patanjali’s employees are fit? Are they required to do mandatory hours of yoga?
Patanjali's employees are taught, trained and guided to adopt healthy life-style free from all vices (like alcohol, tobacco) based on practice of Yoga, healthy food habits, Ayurvedic and natural medication & dwelling near nature.
6. You’ve been the center of many controversies. Why do you think that is?
When there is a change or transformation takes place, no one easily intend to accept it. Transformation also attracts controversies. We should, thus, work in the legal frame of our country with great transparency while keeping our cultural and spiritual values in mind.
Image credit: Indiatimes