Industrial Economist was born out of, one of S Viswanathan’s visits to Germany. He was mesmerised at the Volkswagen plant that produced over 3000 cars per day. India’s production back then was abysmally low. The difference hit him hard. He knew that for development, India must stride ahead and massively increase its capacity in production. Geared up with a mission, SV came back and founded Industrial Economist in 1968. Each decade since, has been defining. The country slowly moved out of the great famine and entered into a period of peace and stability. Freeing from socialist shackles, in 1991, India opened its door to the world setting forth a new era of growth. The Y2K boom helped India rise as a shining star in the global IT services industry. The 2010s laid base to India’s ambitions in manufacturing prowess and now in 2020s, digital shift is making the mark.
SV had the privilege of a ring side view to witness all these changes. His ability to access the top minds and to influence people through his writings were attributes that set him apart. His approach to highlight shortcomings but at the same time suggest remedies were well appreciated.
Throughout the years, IE remained resilient in the face of social, economic, and technological transformations. SV ensured that the magazine stayed ahead of the curve in terms of technology and content. IE carved out a niche by focusing exclusively on contemporary developmental issues. His extensive travels and interactions with industry leaders and policymakers provided him with a distinctive perspective. At times, he cross-shared the learnings with leaders of different sectors and it has offered, great, yet simple solutions. Several state governments, including Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Punjab, Odisha and Tamil Nadu, welcomed IE to present special features on their economies. SV had the opportunity to experience the on ground reality and this enriched his knowledge base and expanded the magazine’s coverage.
In a digital age, running a print magazine is a formidable challenge. SV understood that a magazine was at the end of the content pipe line and ensured that IE presented views of experts across various sectors. It set forth a trend of well-analysed information, based on research.
This October marks one year since SVs loss. The magazine was his bread, butter and breath! His life revolved around the magazine. As a long-standing editor for more than 50 years, SV holds the record of penning more than 1000 cover features. At 84, with his infectious child like charm, SV was very active and engaged. Unlike arm chair journalists, he was out in the field ready to absorb any new knowledge from everyone. At a press meet, while boggling the speaker with data during a Q&A session, he succumbed onto his chair, but only after asking the one last question. Even in his last moments, he remained true to his life long pursuit. That was the last, all saw of SV. The Bhishma Pitha of business journalism thus left behind a legacy.
While it is impossible to separate IE from SV, he established foundational principles that continue to guide the magazine’s operations beyond his lifetime. At IE, his vision remains the driving force, shaping each issue and preserving the magazine’s unique niche.
In Loving Memory of Mr. S. Viswanathan
Today marks the first anniversary of a significant loss in our lives, as we remember the remarkable individual, Mr. S. Viswanathan, lovingly known as “SV” by many. His departure still resonates in our hearts, and the wound left by his absence takes time to heal.
My personal connection with SV and the Industrial Economist began back in 1995, a journey that left an indelible mark on my life. More than just an editor and mentor, SV was a beacon of wisdom and kindness, shaping not only our professional lives but also instilling values that transcended the workplace.
Under SV’s guidance, I learned more than technical and non-technical aspects of our work; I learned the essence of being a good human being. My time at the Industrial Economist remains one of the most satisfying chapters of my life, thanks to his unwavering support and guidance.
What made SV truly exceptional was his commitment to personal relationships. He treated me as if I were his own, and I can say without exaggeration that he was like a father to me. Even in his senior years, he maintained a close bond with me, always available for discussions about the future of the Industrial Economist and never missing an opportunity to extend his warm wishes on special occasions and festivals.
To highlight the magnitude of SV’s contributions, his wife, Mrs. Padma Viswanathan (PV), shared that it now takes ten different individuals to perform the tasks he once handled single-handedly. This serves as a testament to the immense love and passion he poured into his work.
SV’s commitment to journalism remained unshaken until the end, as he harbored dreams of contributing to it in perpetuity. We are fortunate that the Industrial Economist continues to thrive, and this continuation of his legacy is the least we can do to honor his memory.
One year on, the reality of SV’s absence is still difficult to fathom. The loss of his wisdom, kindness, and unwavering support leaves a void that cannot be filled. While speaking to PV, it becomes apparent how much we owe to SV, not only as an editor but as a guiding light and a mentor who cared deeply about our well-being.
In memory of Mr. S. Viswanathan, let us commit ourselves to upholding the values he held dear and continue to strive for excellence in our work and in our lives. He may no longer be with us in person, but his legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of all who had the privilege of knowing him.