Shark Tank's Namita Thapar's strong message to top bosses on how to treat juniors: Stop competing, start coaching

In a corporate world often torn between tradition and innovation, Shark Tank India judge Namita Thapar has offered a surprisingly poetic take on what it truly means to balance the old with the new. Swapping boardroom buzzwords for metaphor and rhyme, the Emcure Pharmaceuticals executive director shared a thought-provoking poem comparing a modern midget tree to an ancient banyan—each symbolising opposing ends of the leadership and generational spectrum.

A poetic reflection
Inspired by an image of two contrasting trees, Namita’s verses cleverly personify the youthful boldness of the modern midget tree and the grounded wisdom of the old banyan. Their dialogue touches upon themes of structure vs. chaos, arrogance vs. humility, and confidence vs. vulnerability. At first glance, it reads like playful banter—but as the lines unfold, a deeper commentary emerges on how both generations often fail to see the value in the other.


The midget tree stands tall and neat, proud of its new-age appeal. Meanwhile, the banyan reminds us that sprawling branches and imperfect shapes can still offer shade, shelter, and substance. Through this imaginative exchange, Namita delivers a subtle management lesson: beauty lies not in conformity or novelty alone, but in the harmony of co-existence.


Leadership with perspective
Namita goes on to reflect on how this metaphor relates directly to leadership dynamics in family-run businesses and corporate settings. She acknowledges the common friction between fresh hires and seasoned veterans—and even confesses her own younger self once held similar biases. But with time comes perspective. Her closing note is directed at senior leaders: instead of competing with emerging talent, choose to coach, guide, and grow together.


Social media reacts
Namita Thapar’s poetic reflection struck a powerful chord with her audience, prompting an outpouring of admiration in the comments. Many readers found the metaphor deeply relatable, describing it as a conversation between generations, sharp, real, and oddly comforting. Others praised the poem for beautifully capturing the essence of old and new, calling it a timely reminder for modern workplaces.

Several followers highlighted the strength of the banyan and midget tree imagery, applauding the analogy as a refreshing take on generational dynamics in teams, families, and businesses. One common sentiment echoed through the comments: the real magic happens not when experience and energy compete, but when they choose to collaborate. The underlying message—Coach, don’t compete—clearly resonated.