To be Known

In a world of rapid advancement, we witness actions that would have been unimaginable just decades ago. If figures like Muhammad Ali Jinnah or Gandhi had been told they could fight for independence by simply pairing a powerful quote with background music in a video, they would have dismissed it as madness.

Yet today, we see even those holding esteemed offices not being immune to the allure of self promotion. Whether in government, academia or other respected fields, people who once carried the weight of their positions with quiet dignity are now increasingly drawn to projecting an image of themselves online.

Civil servants—once regarded as holding the most esteemed positions— can be seen publicly sealing shops, and doing so on platforms like Instagram or TikTok. Lawyers, too, are seen flaunting their knowledge of cases and laws with trendy music playing in the background. This shift, marks a troubling trend, where the value of office and the responsibilities that come with it are over shadowed by the pursuit of personal recognition.

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To be Known | Baaghi TV

This raises the question: is this true progress, or have professionals forgotten the dignity once associated with their roles? The overwhelming focus on PR and the desire for recognition seems to overshadow the true purpose of their work. What was once earned through struggle, dedication, and rightful service to these high offices now appears reduced to mere theatrics, with little regard for the ethical responsibilities they once held dear. An office of high esteem is not meant to serve the occupant’s ego but to uphold larger societal values. The respect once garnered by silent competence is being eroded by the incessant need for validation from an increasingly superficial world.

As strange as it may seem, positions once occupied by esteemed individuals, whose presence was highly sought after, are now filled by those hungry for recognition. And who wouldn’t desire such recognition? It’s a fundamental human need. However, today, many seek fame without substance. Yet, one positive aspect of this evolution is the rise of awareness. People are becoming more discerning, able to distinguish those who have genuinely earned their success from those who rely on mere theatrics to mask their lack of substance.

Despite our current strained relationship with the country, we cannot overlook the exceptional individuals it has produced. From distinguished lawyers and bureaucrats to celebrated sportsmen, businessmen and air force cadets—there are many who have reached remarkable heights. Among them are even authors, those who have penned columns, written poetry and even books.

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The key to their success lies in the strength of their foundations. Their rise was not fuelled by social media or public relations but was a result of their work, which spoke for itself. It was the depth and substance of their contributions that set them apart, not theatrics or premature accolades. Recognition followed their excellence, not the other way around.

The trend of self-promotion extends beyond bureaucrats to other esteemed professions as well. It has become increasingly bizarre, resembling a beauty pageant where everyone seems to be vying for attention as if they were contestants for Miss Universe. How, one might ask, does this contribute to their professional responsibilities? While some argue that social media fosters awareness, that role is better suited to news outlets and journalists, whose duty is to inform the world, not to spotlight trivialities of individual lives.

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To be Known | Baaghi TV

This behaviour sets a dangerous precedent for future generations who see public servants and professionals in respected fields turning their focus towards personal branding rather than serving the responsibilities of their office. It leads one to believe that appearance matters more than the actual substance of work. The virtues of humility, integrity, and commitment to public good—qualities that once defined positions of honour— are becoming secondary to the spectacle of self-promotion.

Those who hold esteemed offices should be seen as stewards of their role, not as individuals using their positions for self-gain. Recognition that comes naturally from a legacy of genuine service is what truly matters rather than the fleeting approval gained through curated appearances. The strength of ones contribution is what defines lasting and meaningful impact and not the volume of applause.

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