Shaving in the morning is a daily routine for men. Of late there has been a gradual revolution in men’s shaving systems. The traditional razor using oblong double-edged blades has largely given way to disposable razors with or without swiveling heads. These have come to stay. But we also hear of path-breaking innovations where the battery-powered shaving systems emit gentle pulses which are supposed to give an incredible shaving experience.  

In the late 50’s, the situation was a bit uncertain. The government had stopped the import of razor blades so that the Indian razor industry, then in infancy, could flourish and   make progress. That prompted the emergence of many brands of indigenous blades. But in spite of the restriction, imported blades continued to be available, though at a premium. 

In my patriotic fervour, I bade good-bye to smuggled Gillette and Wilkinson blades and started experimenting with the Indian brands.  Before long, I chanced to come across a particular brand which had an edge on others, or so I thought.  The shaves were not exactly smooth like the present Indian blades, which have since achieved international quality.  However, I was happy not to suffer any nicks. 

But after a few days when I opened a new packet, the blade only scratched and gave rashes, refusing to cut my one-day growth. I tried a few more blades from different packets but found them equally blunt.  As a champion of indigenous products, I considered it my duty to inform the manufacturers about the erratic quality of their product.  I wrote an indignant letter and enclosed samples of the offending blades.

To my surprise, the reply to my complaint was prompt.  The letter said that high level action has been initiated and a number of steps taken to root out the cause of such complaints in future. The letter was undoubtedly the sign of a good professionally managed organisation. Above all, it was very heartening to note that the letter was signed by the top functionary of the company.

But as I was putting back the letter in its envelope, a piece of paper fell out on the floor. The hastily scribbled note on it said, “Send this guy our standard reply regarding complaints.”