Opinion Piece

In your mind, who is an ideal leader? Can you picture them?

What do you think makes them competent? What qualities do they have? Is it the way they talk? The fact that they understand you? It could be their ideas, their creativity, their problem-solving ability.  Well, there’s one quality that might not top lists but is something a good leader should have. 

A good leader has to be brave

Brave enough to make tough decisions. To ask difficult questions. To have those unpleasant conversations

It’s often an overlooked quality. No one thinks about this need to be brave. Bravery isn’t the absence of fear, it’s moving ahead despite it. It stems from this place of responsibility and care. And, is shown by someone who is personally invested in the success of the company/team. 

“Bravery” is a scintillating quality to have. 

Whether you are a leader or someone who wants to lead a team in the future, consider sculpting this quality. Work on being brave!

Back to School

When Wisdm started, Rohan used to go to colleges during recruitment drives. He used to personally deliver the pre-placement talk and evaluate candidates. As Wisdm grew, this responsibility was shouldered by others. Eventually, after having gone remote, was moved completely to HR. Well, Rohan’s talk at these colleges was a way of connecting with young minds and was something he missed. 

So this time, when the opportunity presented itself, Rohan jumped at the idea of going back to colleges. Being able to share his personal story and talk about company values passionately, assured us that we would be able to attract curious minds. And we did! We got more sign-ups on our college registration form. 

The talk originally planned for 1 hour, went on for two hours. Well, that was expected ;)… but was more than worth it. Here are some pics from his talk at VJTI!

People and Places: Unveiling Hidden Gems

Back with our new section for Insider that covers details about a fellow Wisdmer hometown. This time we have Sayan Pal to share with us details about his hometown, Kolkata. Sayan Pal works in the TechOps team, managed by Foram, in the Services division.

Kolkata: A Cultural Tapestry

From Calcutta to Kolkata Kolkata, originally known as Calcutta, has a history that dates back to the British colonial era. The name “Calcutta” is believed to have been derived from “Kalikata,” one of the three villages that existed on the site before the city was established by the East India Company in 1690. The name was Anglicized by the British to “Calcutta.” In 2001, the city was officially renamed Kolkata to better reflect the Bengali pronunciation and to shed the remnants of its colonial past. This change symbolized a reclamation of cultural identity and pride for the people of Bengal.

The Rich Flavors of Kolkata Kolkata’s cuisine is a delicious reflection of its vibrant culture. The city is famous for its sweet delicacies like misti doi (sweetened yogurt) and rosogolla (a syrupy, spongy dessert). These sweets are more than just food; they are a symbol of Bengali hospitality and are deeply embedded in the region’s traditions. Another culinary gem is the **Kolkata biryani**, a dish that stands out due to its unique inclusion of potatoes alongside the meat and fragrant rice. This variant of biryani is not only beloved in Kolkata but also holds a special place in the hearts of many who consider it the best version of the dish. The city also boasts a rich tradition of fish dishes, with **hilsa (ilish)** being the crown jewel. Hilsa is often prepared in mustard sauce, a dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Bengali cuisine. Other notable sweets include **sandesh**, a milk-based dessert that is delicate and mildly sweet, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Exploring Kolkata and Beyond Kolkata serves as a gateway to many beautiful tourist destinations in West Bengal. The city itself is home to historical landmarks like the **Victoria Memorial**, **Howrah Bridge**, and **Dakshineswar Kali Temple**. Just a few hours away, **Digha** offers a serene beach experience, while **Mandarmani** is another coastal retreat known for its expansive beaches. **Darjeeling**, often referred to as the “Queen of the Hills,” is famous for its tea gardens and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. **Purulia** is known for its rich tribal culture and scenic landscapes, making it a unique destination for those interested in exploring Bengal’s rural beauty.

The Melodious Legacy of Bengal West Bengal has a rich tradition in music, producing some of India’s most celebrated singers. **Kishore Kumar**, with his versatile voice, remains an icon of Indian cinema. **Kumar Sanu** and **Shreya Ghoshal** have continued this legacy, winning hearts with their melodious voices and countless hits. **Arijit Singh**, one of the most popular singers today, also hails from Bengal, further solidifying the state’s reputation for producing exceptional musical talent.

Kolkata, with its rich history, delectable cuisine, scenic beauty, and deep cultural roots, is a city that proudly reflects the essence of Bengal. Whether through its food, its music, or its history, Kolkata continues to be a vibrant centre of Bengali culture.

Wisdm's Got Talent?

Want to be featured?

WE WANT YOU

Show off your talent to the entire company and possibly the world!

Who knows one day you’ll tell the world this story of how you got featured in your company magazine with no growing *cough* *cough* readership … to then go on and make a serious career in the field of art/music/photography/dance/knitting/kickboxing…and become a millionaire! The world is your oyster and Insider is a place you can start. Send in your entries to cultural.committee@wisdmlabs.com or namrata.godkar@wisdmlabs.com

And if you have any apprehensions, remember you have to be brave! 😀