Self Respect
Madhusudan was the Head of the Purchase department of a Chemical Manufacturing Company. He had an indent of “Industrial Alcohol” from
the production department. He found a supplier in Mumbai through an advertisement in the business magazine “Chemical Weekly”.
“Hello, I am Madhusudan from Bombay Chemicals Ltd. Is it the right time to speak”, Madhusudan
“Please go ahead”, Om Prakash Gupta said from
other end
“We need one tanker of Industrial alcohol. Can you supply us? What is your price, payment, and delivery terms”, Madhusudan
“The consignment will come from Chennai. The supply time is 10 days, price is Rs 6 lacs. No credit, advance payment. Still to start with I can offer you a credit of 7 days. But do remember I shall not be able to meet you personally at your office”, Om Prakash
“Sir, what’s the problem. Just come to our office and have a cup of coffee with us”, Madhusudan
“thanks. but it’s not possible. Please send your person to my place with a P.O. or simply fax me P.O. I will arrange a supply for you”.
Madhusudan excitement grew. He had habit of developing new vendors and suppliers and win their confidence to ensure an uninterrupted supply of his cash-strapped company. So he decided to visit the supplier personally.
When entered his home, his wife took him straight to the bedroom of Om Prakash. He was lying in his bed cheerfully. Madhusudan was offered tea and biscuits. But still he was wondering, why the gentleman was not courteous enough to get up and sit properly on sofa. So he couldn’t resist and asked him diplomatically.
“I was really not interested to tell you about my story but now that you asked me, let me brief you. I was diagnosed with spinal tumour around six years back. I went to the USA for surgery which lasted for 12 hours or so. But post surgery I lost strength in both of my legs and has also lost sensation of urine and stool. So i had no choice but to lay down. Yet I have fighting spirit. I didn’t want to give any trouble to my family members. So I use wheel chair, go to wash room and perform daily routine. I also do business on the telephone. I want to make my remaining life meaningful”. OP said.
Madhusudan was speechless. He developed the utmost respect for this gentleman. He first arranged money for material before placing an order.
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