Is Patanjali Overrated? A Consumer’s Perspective

Yoga is an ancient practice known for its numerous health benefits. However, the commercial side of yoga and related products has often been criticized for being shrewd and unscrupulous. When Patanjali, a well-known brand in India, entered the market with its promise of swadeshi (indigenous) products, many were intrigued. But has Patanjali lived up to its hype? Let's explore this question through the lens of a consumer.

Introduction to Patanjali

Patanjali has been a name synonymous with India for ages. The brand has seen a significant surge in popularity, especially after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came into power, promoting swadeshi products. Patanjali entered almost every segment of consumer goods, opening a large number of retail outlets. However, the initial charm did not last long. The products launched in a hurry, without proper segmentation or marketing, started losing their shine. The claim about COVID remedies further fueled the debate. Let's delve deeper into the experience with some of Patanjali's products.

Consumer Experience with Patanjali Products

I must say, my initial reaction to Patanjali products was one of skepticism. I am not a Fan of Ramdev Baba, but I wrote this review as a consumer. My experience with Patanjali products began when I was young, in a family where discipline is everything. As a result, we always used the same brands for essential items like shampoo, toothpaste, biscuits, soaps, and oil. Over the years, I have noticed a shift in some of these products.

Toothpaste Experience

Toothpaste: Colgate was the brand of choice in my house, at least since my birth. However, over time, we shifted to Dant Kanti by Patanjali. Initially, I was hesitant to try it, but a single use was enough to convince me that it was better than Colgate. It's a testament to the discipline instilled in our family to try and stick to the same brands.

Mustard Oil and Edible Coconut Oil

Mustard Oil: Almost all the cooking in my family is done using mustard oil. Sometimes we use sunflower oil, but now Patanjali mustard oil has become the preferred choice. Even if it's not used every day, the difference in the fragrance and quality is noticeable. It surpasses many other oils available in the market.

Edible Coconut Oil: I use edible coconut oil in my coffee and Horlicks to prevent acidity. Coconut oil also serves as a moisturizer for my skin. The use of these products has been a part of my routine for some time now, and I am quite satisfied with them.

Shampoo and Other Products

Shampoo: Pantene and Head Shoulders were previously dominant players in the shampoo market. But now, Patanjali has taken a significant share. My sister swears by the Patanjali shampoo, and I have to admit, it seems just as good as the Unilever or Procter Gamble products, but at a lower cost.

These are just a few of the products I have tried, and while I am quite satisfied with them, I am open to exploring more. The value for money offered by Patanjali is commendable, and the brand seems to be steadily gaining ground in the consumer market.

Healing Through Ayurvedic Remedies

Health and wellness are not just about routine products. They extend to Ayurvedic medicines as well. I have a chronic bronchitis which I have been dealing with for over a decade. Non-Ayurvedic medicines led to a compromised immune system, making me susceptible to other diseases and allergies. However, I wasn't prepared to let my body continue to suffer any further. I tried some Patanjali medicines for bronchitis, which, although it took some time, has completely healed me. Additionally, I have been using several Patanjali products for general use. Kaanthilep has helped reduce the pimples on my face, and I use edible coconut oil in my coffee and Horlicks to prevent acidity. I also use coconut oil as a moisturizer. Patanjali soaps, although not much different from other soaps in the market, are cost-effective and suitable for daily use.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Patanjali is not overrated. While the initial excitement about the brand may have waned due to hasty market entry and lack of proper marketing, the products themselves have a lot of value to offer. Whether it's toothpaste, mustard oil, or Ayurvedic medicines, Patanjali has proven its worth to be a value for money product. It is making a significant impact in the consumer market, and I am excited to see what else they have in store.