India, May 18 -- Bata has been a household name in India for so long that many people assume it is an Indian brand. It is not. But in many ways, it feels like one. The pricing makes sense for Indian families, the designs suit real life, and the quality has earned the kind of trust that takes decades to build.

Most of us have owned at least one pair. School shoes are polished every Sunday night. Sensible sandals bought before college. Formal shoes for job interviews. Bata has been there for all of it.

What I like most is that there has always been something for me at every stage of life. Even now, I almost always have one dependable pair of Bata shoes in my wardrobe for everyday use. And the best part? They simply do not wear out. If a p...