My Transformational Tenure of 8 Years in Ludhiana (Part II)
Starting a career in a new city is always challenging. When I began my professional journey in Ludhiana, little did I know it would shape my career and personal growth in unimaginable ways. From memorable first meetings with colleagues to navigating complex distribution systems, the eight years I spent in Ludhiana became the foundation for everything that followed in my career. In this piece, I will share my experiences, the challenges of the times, and the lessons learned.
The Beginning: March 8, 1982
I still remember the excitement and nervousness as I joined my job in Ludhiana on March 8, 1982. My Sales Manager (SM) scheduled a meeting at the General Post Office (GPO) at 10:00 AM. Arriving 20 minutes early, I met my SM and two colleagues, Mr. Sarna and Mr. Sahni. It was a day of introductions and firsts. We grabbed coffee, dispersed, and my SM took me to meet my first client—Dr. V. P. Berry at Berry Nursing Home. This interaction left a deep impact on me. Dr. Berry blessed me with words of encouragement, which felt like a positive omen for my future in this industry.
Building Bonds: Mr. Sarna and Mr. Sahni
Two key figures during my early years were my colleagues, Mr. Sarna and Mr. Sahni. Mr. Sarna, a senior at Ludhiana HQ, had a cheerful and witty personality that lightened our often intense workdays. On the other hand, Mr. Sahni had joined a year before me and quickly became a close friend. We shared similar interests, and he treated me like a younger brother. Over time, the three of us built a close bond that went beyond just working relationships. Their support made Ludhiana HQ a productive and positive environment, with our team achieving our sales targets year after year.
The Distribution System: Then and Now
Back in the early 1980s, the distribution system in Ludhiana was straightforward. Each headquarters had just one stockist, which ensured smooth operations and minimized complications. This monopolistic approach worked well for both the company and employees. Stockists were motivated to meet their targets, keep adequate stock, and ensure that the business ran like a well-oiled machine.
Fast forward to today, and the scenario has drastically changed. Stockists are now more cautious, keeping minimal stock to avoid trapping their investment. This shift, combined with the complications of modern discount structures, has disrupted the market dynamics. Selling products has become more challenging, with allurement and discount wars leading to less ethical practices. These changes made me nostalgic for the simpler and more efficient systems of the past.
The Turmoil of the Khalistan Movement
While I was building professional relationships and meeting sales targets, external events, particularly the “Khalistan Movement,” had a profound impact on my work life. Between 1983 and 1984, Punjab experienced significant violence due to the movement led by Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale. It was a time of fear and unpredictability. As medical representatives, we often traveled by bus to reach interior locations, but the threat of violence was ever-present. People from certain communities were targeted and killed, creating an atmosphere of fear.
In 1984, after the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, tensions peaked, leading to higher uncertainties. Just before that during ‘Operation Blue Star’ for nearly two weeks, I was stuck in Delhi as routes to Punjab were completely blocked. These were some of the most stressful times in my career, but they also taught me resilience.
The Relationships That Mattered
Despite the challenges, the relationships I built with doctors in Ludhiana and surrounding areas became the cornerstone of my professional success. I often traveled to towns like Khanna, Phillaur, and Doraha, forging strong bonds with doctors who supported me throughout my tenure. Two doctors, in particular, stand out: Dr. Chawla, a leading gastroenterologist and principal of Dayanand Medical College, and Dr. V. P. Takkar, a pediatric specialist. Their trust in me and my company’s products helped establish our reputation in the region.
Personal Life: Finding Balance
Balancing work and personal life was crucial during my Ludhiana tenure. I found solace in spending time at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), where I met students from different backgrounds. One of my close friends, Anil, was a regular companion during these days. Additionally, PAU’s library became a quiet refuge for me, especially as I prepared for my post-graduate course in marketing and sales.
My colleague, Mr. Sahni, also played a role in making my Ludhiana life enjoyable. His culinary skills turned our kitchen into a place of experimentation, particularly with chicken dishes. Despite the professional challenges, the personal connections I formed enriched my life and made those eight years unforgettable.
A Career Launched in Ludhiana
My time in Ludhiana laid the groundwork for the rest of my career. What started as a fresh beginning evolved into a fruitful journey that took me to the highest ranks in my company. When I left Ludhiana, the city had become one of the best-performing locations in Punjab, often surpassing larger cities like Amritsar and Jalandhar.
These eight years weren’t just about meeting sales targets. They were about learning the art of building relationships, navigating challenges, and growing personally and professionally. I look back at my time in Ludhiana with immense pride and gratitude, knowing that it shaped me into the professional I became.
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