This Advertisement by Bombae Shaving Company Receives Flak for being 'Distateful'

It all started when UP board results were announced. Prachi Nigam, the topper who scored an outstanding 98% did not know that she would become viral, for all the wrong reasons.

What is the advertisement all about?

Bombay Shaving Company faced criticism for their newspaper ad addressing Prachi Nigam's remarkable academic achievement amidst trolls targeting her facial hair. The ad, promoting women's razors, stated, "Dear Prachi, they are trolling your hair today, they’ll applaud your A.I.R. tomorrow." It urged her not to succumb to bullying and subtly promoted their product.

Social media users expressed outrage, calling the ad exploitative and in poor taste. They argued that the brand was capitalizing on Prachi's situation without her consent. Prachi herself hasn't directly addressed the ad but previously responded to the trolling, emphasizing that her success is her identity.

Industry Experts React

Industry experts like Jaskaran Singh Kapany and Deepti Karthik criticized the ad, labelling it as distasteful and unnecessary. Shantanu Deshpande, founder of Bombay Shaving Company, defended the ad, stating it was a heartfelt message to support Prachi without any opportunistic intent.

The controversy highlights the fine line between marketing and sensitivity, especially when capitalizing on personal experiences for commercial gain.

Is the Advertisement in 'Poor Taste'?

There is a fine line between extending support and mockery. Bombae Shaving Company's heart might be in the right place, but to subtly be 'anti-bullying' while seemingly joining in poking where it hurts, is not a form of support. Some may call it being 'holier-than-thou'. The nuance is missing from this advertisement. In matters as sensitive as trolling someone's appearance, any form of support must be communicated directly. A statement simply stating the company's stance against the trolling a 16-year-old girl is subjected to would have been enough. Empathy is also putting yourself in someone's shoes. Maybe it is time for brands to take responsibility for their lack of understanding.