Priya Mohan Sinha: A True Nationalist

Bala and I are extremely saddened to hear about the demise of Suman, a friend, philosopher and guide for me over four decades. He mentored me, coached me – indeed nurtured me into a professional and provided me insights into dealing with people at large and the government in particular.  He also had mastered the art of influencing public policy – but it was for him – like many Hindustan Unilever (HUL) present and past stalwarts – India first, Company next. He was a true nationalist.

He had a never-say- die spirit and perseverance was his hallmark. He could deal with people at all levels – be it TSIs, stockists, C&FA, a section officer in government or senior civil servants or cabinet ministers.

I had the privilege and opportunity of assisting him on many issues that he dealt with on behalf of the company – be it soaps and personal product capacities, MRTP and FERA approvals on multiple occasions or the problems of insurgency in Punjab and militancy in Assam, including the well-known instance of airlifting of the company’s managers from the Doomdooma Tea Plantations.

He served his tenure with Pepsi with equal dedication and distinction and built a team that Pepsi was justly proud of.  He in fact, laid the basic foundation of success of what Pepsi is today. He served on many committees of the Government of India and industry chambers with distinction and outstanding commitment and contribution.

At a personal level, he was truly a family person, a loving and caring husband to his better half Umaji and his two daughters Pooja and Anjali.  Post Umaji’s demise, he had lost the zest for life to a large measure.  What kept him going was his sense of care and responsibility for his daughters.

His demise is a personal loss to Bala and me and we shall cherish his memories for a long time to come.  May God Almighty grant his soul eternal peace “Moksha” and give courage and fortitude to his two daughters and extended family to bear the loss.

In prayers,

M. K. Sharma

Mahendra Kumar Sharma

Guest Author The author is former Vice Chairman, Hindustan Unilever