PR: Manipulation Mastery or Just Smoke and Mirrors? Painter Babu Rishabh

 


Is PR really some mystical "dark art," or is it just strategic savvy hiding behind a smokescreen? Public relations often gets labeled as manipulation or wizardry, a practice cloaked in mystery to outsiders. The reality? PR pros aren’t casting spells—they’re just skilled at the subtle science of influence. In this piece, we’re pulling back the curtain on why PR feels like a secret society, unpacking the spin, selective storytelling, and timing tricks that create its reputation as a hidden art form. So, is PR manipulation mastery, or just well-timed strategy?

1. The Art of Influence

PR pros are masters of perception. They can spin narratives, sway public opinion, and make you see brands in a whole new light—all without you even realizing it. This subtle influence often feels like a “dark art.”

2. The Power of the Spin

In PR, there’s always a way to reframe a story. That "catastrophe" can be “a learning opportunity,” and “mass layoffs” might become “strategic restructuring.” This ability to twist words and soften blows is what gives PR its mysterious aura.

3. Behind-the-Scenes Wizardry

PR professionals often work behind the curtains, making brands and people shine without stepping into the spotlight themselves. This makes them feel like hidden puppeteers pulling the strings.

4. Managing Perception, Not Truth

While PR doesn’t necessarily lie, it doesn’t always serve the whole truth either. It's selective storytelling—highlighting the good, minimizing the bad, and knowing exactly how much to reveal.

5. Crisis Control Magicians

Ever wonder how a celebrity or company bounces back after a scandal? That's PR magic. Turning disasters into PR wins is an art form, and not everyone is comfortable with how seamlessly it’s done.

6. Timing as a Tool of Influence

Knowing when to release news is as powerful as the news itself. PR pros know the perfect time to drop a story or bury bad news, shaping the public’s focus and reaction.

7. Exclusivity of the Knowledge

PR has its own set of unspoken rules, insider jargon, and tricks of the trade. For outsiders, it can feel like a secret society with hidden knowledge—a true “dark art” where only insiders know the game.


With over 15 years of versatile experience, Rishabh Shukla is a distinguished journalist, public relations expert, brand storytelling consultant, and art activist. He has mastered the art of transforming narrative-driven public relations into powerful, emotionally resonant brands. Combining his journalistic expertise with creative storytelling and the use of art for social justice, Rishabh has become a force to reckon with in the worlds of publishing, real estate, and NGO collaborations.

Armed with double master’s degrees in English Literature and Ancient Indian History, Culture, and Archaeology, as well as a postgraduate diploma in Journalism and Mass Communications, Rishabh excels in creating high-impact media content that drives engagement and visibility. His design thinking badges from IBM further empower him to craft lasting narratives for clients, transforming ordinary stories into memorable brand identities.

Recognized by numerous esteemed organizations for his strategic public relations planning, contemporary writing, and campaign development, Rishabh has created story-centric PR campaigns that drive meaningful, measurable results for businesses, NGOs, and creative sectors alike.

One of his most unique contributions to the world of literature is his pioneering of the micro-story genre. Delivering complete narratives in just 15 words—Rishabh has penned over 200+ of these micro tales. His minimalist, deeply engaging storytelling style captures entire emotional arcs, setting new standards for brevity and creative impact. Despite lacking traditional narrative structures, these stories encapsulate humor, drama, melancholy, or eeriness, keeping readers hooked from the first word.






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