Publicity stunt or showcasing stupidity?

The columnist is a writer and illustrator

- SHARANYA MANIVANNAN

HOCK advertising has always been a thing. Whether through titillation or provocation, brands as well as individuals aspiring to have brand-like identities and recognisability have utilised various staged and paid means to capture attention.

The controversy that may occur is a chosen risk, and sometimes beneficial—sometimes it backfires. Lately, in lieu of advertising, strategic social media posts intended to garner online engagement and free publicity have been the medium of choice.

Recently, two Indian companies had information released online regarding employment practices that caused public dismay and discussion. Last month, food delivery aggregator Zomato posted a hiring notice for a person willing to pay the company 20 lakhs and work for no salary for a year, for the possibility of huge financial reward later. This was debated widely, with many wondering if it was all just an eyeball-grabbing promotion, not a real job listing.