Nothing like botox to firm up bottomlines

The salvation of humankind could lie in a single, stupefying word: Botox. Apart from the fact that people of all ages are attracted to its smooth talk — from bejowled middle-aged men to pimply teenagers, besides wrinkle-averse matrons — recent reports suggest that Botox could prove to be the elixir of life itself. While there is no suggestion yet that it can guarantee immortality, it is being touted as the solution to everything: from incontinence and jaw tension to migraines and underarm perspiration. Its rising popularity in India may be just due to its face value so far, but there is obviously more to this wonder drug than its famous ability to freeze obstreperous tissue and muscle into pucker-free immobility in the space of a lunch break.

Of course, its primary — rather than numerous secondary — use will probably remain Botox’s main selling proposition here since many people cannot achieve the ageless impassiveness of a Manmohan Singh without cosmetic help. Indeed, as the extent of its powers is yet to be ascertained, praise has been low key. It will not be long, however, before Botox is hailed as not only a great leveller but a rejuvenating and liberating force. Little wonder then that the pharma industry is injecting millions into finding me-too Botox that will prevent their bottomlines from ever sagging as well.