Category: iWorld

Allu Arjun discusses Indian cinema on ‘Duologue with Barun Das’ season two premiere

Mumbai: The highly anticipated second episode of ‘Duologue with Barun Das’ Season 2 made its connected TV premiere on News9 Live, India’s premier 24×7 digital English CTV news stream, at 9 pm on 18 May 2024. Episode one showcases a dynamic conversation between TV9 Network MD & CEO Barun Das and the iconic Indian actor, Allu Arjun.

In an inimitable exchange, Das and Arjun delved into the evolution of Indian cinema and the actor’s pioneering contributions to the industry. Arjun, renowned for his versatility and dedication to his craft, opined on the status quo in Indian cinema, sharing valuable insights on the changing landscape of Bollywood and the global influence of non-English films like Korean cinema.

Reflecting on his own cinematic journey, Arjun discussed his passion for exploring diverse roles and experimenting with different genres. “Bollywood is undergoing a renaissance, and I want to be at the forefront of this transformation,” he declared. Arjun’s dedication to his craft and his willingness to take risks have earned him widespread acclaim, solidifying his status as one of India’s most bankable stars.

Regarding his personal growth journey, Arjun emphasized the learnings received from the works of renowned experts, including Dr. Deepak Chopra, whom Arjun claimed to be a big believer of, and who also appears as a guest in the second season of Duologue with Barun Das.

Elaborating on his optimism about the future of Indian cinema, Arjun shared his enthusiasm for the multi-genre format, emphasizing the importance of embracing new storytelling formats and pushing the boundaries of traditional filmmaking. Clarifying the USP of Indian cinema as one that blurs the lines between genres, creating a seamless blend of action, romance, comedy, and drama, he said, “I want to bridge the gap between Bollywood and global cinema, creating a unique cinematic experience that resonates with audiences worldwide”.

Regarding the role of AI in the entertainment industry, Arjun welcomes technological advancements as tools for innovation and creativity, stating, “If there’s something new coming, I’ll be the first person to embrace it because it is inevitable. It is going to change. Let us accept the change with open arms.”

The conversation offered viewers a rare glimpse into the future of Indian cinema and the visionary approach of one of its brightest stars. Marking the start of the CTV premiere of ‘Duologue with Barun Das’ season two, the episode will be followed next week with one featuring footballing great Oliver Kahn, on Saturday, the 25 May, with further episodes to release every Saturday at 9 pm, on News9 Live.

May 25, 2024
Exciting content to end your May with a bang

Mumbai: As May draws to a close, get ready for a grand finale that promises excitement across screens! From the heartwarming and inspiring tale of ‘Mr. & Mrs. Mahi’ hitting theaters, to the nail-biting climax of the IPL season streaming live, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a movie buff eager to watch Janhvi Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao in action, a cricket fan on the edge of your seat for the IPL showdown, or an audio series enthusiast awaiting the latest twists in ‘Asura’, the end of May has it all.

Dive into these six thrilling entertainment options and make your May memorable:

Mr. & Mrs. Mahi (In theaters)

Mr. and Mrs. Mahi, directed by Sharan Sharma, stars Janhvi Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao. The drama follows Mahendra, a failed cricketer, and Mahima, a doctor, united by an arranged marriage. Sharing the nickname ‘Mahi’, they bond over their mutual love for cricket. Mahendra recognizes Mahima’s talent and supports her dream of becoming a cricketer, coaching her along the way.

IPL finale (Jio Cinema)

The edition 17 of the Indian Premier League reaches its thrilling climax on Sunday, 26 May, in Chennai. Will the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) clinch their long-awaited IPL title, or will Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) win the title? Stay tuned for an electrifying showdown, only on Jio Cinemas!

Asura (Pocket FM)

Darsh, a 15-year-old boy, who has always been disrespected by his family, has always brought down his family’s name by failing in martial arts exams for five consecutive years. But then one night something happened, due to which a terrible and huge change took place inside Darsh. What happened that night? Will Darsh ever be able to regain the love and respect of his family? After repeated failures, will Darsh ever be able to achieve success in his life? Listen to Asura to know about Darsh’s journey only on Pocket FM.

Panchayat (Amazon Prime Video)

Jitendra Kumar returns in this popular series, capturing the challenges of an engineering graduate turned Gram Panchayat secretary in a remote village. This season, highly anticipated for its gripping storyline, sees Abhishek Tripathi, played by Kumar, entangled in the vibrant drama of Phulera. After a tense altercation, Abhishek’s future in the village is uncertain. Amidst village politics, he navigates a budding romance with Rinki, the local leader’s daughter, while contending with power-hungry rivals.

Mahabali Mayank (Pocket FM)

In the deep forest of Bihar, lies the real Nalanda University, a secret academy of martial arts and magic. There studies Mayank, a rebellious young boy who is a royalty from the Gupta dynasty. In his blood runs the power to win over the world. But to activate it, Mayank has to first learn discipline first. Find out further about his insightful journey in this fantasy drama. Tune into Mahabali Mayank only on Pocket FM.

Chhota Bheem and the Curse of Damyaan movie (in theaters)

A live-action adaptation of Rajiv Chilaka’s 2012 animated film brings Chota Bheem and his friends to life. Set in the fictional kingdom of Dholakpur, the film captures Bheem’s bravery and his friends’ loyalty as they embark on thrilling adventures. With great visuals and dynamic performances, this version aims to enchant both new viewers and longtime fans, retaining the charm and excitement of the beloved original.

May 25, 2024
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Mumbai: In the hustle and bustle of modern life, the juggle between work commitments and personal well-being often feels like a precarious balancing act, especially for the dynamic working women. As we navigate through packed schedules and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to push our health to the back burner.

But what if we told you that achieving and maintaining fitness doesn’t have to be an uphill battle? There are myriad ways for you to weave wellness seamlessly into your everyday routine. Celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar in ‘The 12-Week Fitness Project’ and ‘Don’t Lose Out, Work Out!,’ on Audible, offers a treasure trove of tips for women to make the most of their workout routine. Pro tip: If you are seeking essential advice on incorporating the right exercises and workouts into your schedule, you can access these audio titles by Rujuta Diwekar with Audible’s special a la carte offer, at a nominal cost of just Rs 69 each.

In ‘The 12-Week Fitness Project,’ Rujuta said, “Most of us lose two–four kilos of muscles every 10 years. In women, especially after 30, we lose muscle from our thighs and gain intramuscular fat at a fast pace. This continuous and progressive loss of muscle and bone density can be reversed with exercise.”

If you have never weight trained before: Start now. Schedule a meeting with an expert trainer at a local gym and begin with a once-a-week routine. You must start especially if you already have insulin resistance, are very obese, have a heart condition, bone loss or diabetes.

If you are already training but are not regular: Get regular and dedicate at least two times a week to strength training. This is especially crucial for all those who have PCOD or breakouts, are menopausal or have thyroid issues. Focus on bringing in progressive overload into your workouts.

If you are training three or more days a week, drop your reps to five–eight and focus on the intensity or the actual weight you subject your muscles to. The biggest gains of strength training come from the load bearing that you train your muscles to do.

In ‘Don’t Lose Out, Work Out!’ Rujuta shared, “You can start with as little as an hour every week. The most important thing you need to remember is intensity. A gym workout needs to be planned properly and here is how to do that.”

The warm-up should be specific to the main workout. The right warmup allows the blood flow to move through the specific muscle groups and warms up the specific joints that will be trained that day.

1. Perform a set of 12-15 reps before starting your training

2. Use 50 per cent of the main workout weight

3. Rest for 30 seconds to three minutes before starting the main workout set. This leads muscles to be warmed up with the exact mechanics that will be performed on the workout set.

Perform higher intensity before lower intensity exercises. Workout in the following order – legs, back, chest, shoulders, and then arms.

1. Within legs, you should prioritise multiple joint exercises like squats before leg extension.

2. With the back, do a bend-over row, which is done using free weights like the barbell, before doing a seated row.

3. With the chest, you should chest press, higher intensity and more exhausting, before doing the flyes.

The duration of the workout should not exceed 60 minutes. We must remember that once the glycogen stores are over, the body will burn its proteins to keep up with the exercise.

1. With the glycogen stores most of us have, we will run out of fuel in as little as 30 minutes. This will lead to both a drop in exercise intensity and a higher risk of injury.

2. In one gym session, perform about eight to ten sets excluding warm-ups that train major muscle groups.

3. Perform eight to 15 reps per set with good form and to the point of fatigue. Fatigue is reached when you know you can’t do another repetition with the same weight without compromising on form. Use both multi and single-joint exercises.

May 25, 2024
The future of social media: Predicting trends and technologies that will shape the industry

Mumbai: Social media, once a novelty, has become an ingrained part of our lives. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter(now X), and Instagram connect us with friends and family, inform us about current events, and entertain us with endless content. But how will social media evolve in the coming years? What trends and technologies will reshape how we interact online?

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI)

AI has started interacting with and merging social media, and its influence will grow. Here are some ways AI will impact the future:

. Content creation and personalisation: AI can analyze user data and preferences to create personalized content feeds. Imagine platforms curating news articles, videos, and posts tailored to your interests. AI can also assist content creators by generating ideas, writing captions, and editing visuals.

. Community management and moderation: AI-powered chatbots can handle basic customer service inquiries and answer frequently asked questions, freeing human moderators to focus on complex issues. AI can detect and remove harmful content, promoting a safer online environment.

. Targeted advertising: AI will allow advertisers to hyper-target their campaigns, reaching the specific demographics and psychographics most likely to be receptive to their messages. This will lead to more effective advertising and a more personalized user experience.

The power of data and analytics

Social media platforms collect vast user data, providing valuable insights into user behaviour and preferences. How will this data be used in the future?

. Social listening and brand reputation management: Brands can leverage social media data to understand public sentiment towards their products and services. They can then use this information to improve customer satisfaction, address negative feedback, and build brand loyalty.

. Predictive marketing and content strategy: By analyzing user data, social media platforms and brands can predict what content will resonate with specific audiences. This allows for more targeted content marketing strategies, increasing engagement and conversion rates.

. Evolving user privacy concerns: As data collection becomes more sophisticated, concerns about user privacy will continue to rise. Platforms must strike a balance between gathering valuable data and respecting user privacy. We might see stricter regulations and increased user control over data collection and use.

The shift towards immersive experiences

The future of social media might be on something other than our screens. Emerging technologies like (AR) and (VR) could play a part in how we interact online.

. The rise of the metaverse: The metaverse, a hypothetical future iteration of the internet, could be a persistent, immersive virtual world where social interactions occur through avatars. Meta’s project didn’t go as planned, but we shouldn’t immediately disregard it!

. Enhanced social experiences: AR overlays digital elements onto the real world. Imagine using AR filters to try on clothes virtually before buying them or using location-based AR features to discover new restaurants and hidden gems in your city.

. Interactive content and storytelling: Social media platforms could integrate AR and VR elements into their existing formats.

Focus on authenticity and community building

As users become increasingly aware of the adverse effects of social media, platforms will need to prioritise user well-being and foster a sense of authentic connection. Here are some potential trends:

. The rise of private messaging apps: Users may shift towards private messaging apps that offer a more intimate and controlled environment for communication. Platforms like Discord and Telegram are already experiencing significant growth, catering to communities with more specific interests.

. The decline of clickbait and misinformation: With increased user scepticism towards online content, platforms should identify ways to solve the spread of misinformation and promote reliable sources. Algorithmic changes and fact-checking initiatives will be crucial.

. Focus on meaningful interactions and well-being: Users crave genuine connections and positive online experiences. Platforms may prioritize features that promote healthy online communities, fostering meaningful discussions and real-world interactions.

The future of social commerce

Social media is no longer just a tool for connection; it’s becoming a powerful platform for commerce. How will social commerce evolve in the future?

. Seamless shopping experiences: Social media platforms integrate features that allow users to discover products, browse reviews, and purchase directly within the app. One-click buying and integration with payment platforms will further streamline the shopping experience.

. The rise of influencer marketing: Influencers will continue to play a significant role in social commerce. Brands will partner with micro-influencers with highly engaged audiences to promote products and services more authentically.

The evolving role of social media platforms

As technology and user preferences evolve, social media platforms must adapt to remain relevant. Here are some potential changes in the platform landscape:

. The rise of decentralised social media: Decentralised social media platforms give users more control over data and content. These platforms utilize blockchain technology to distribute data storage and content moderation across a network of computers. While still nascent, decentralized platforms could offer a more user-centric alternative to traditional social media giants.

. Subscription-based models: Social media platforms may charge a subscription fee for premium features or ad-free experiences. This could provide a new revenue stream for platforms while giving users more control over their experience.

. The rise of niche platforms: Niche platforms will continue to emerge, catering to specific interests and communities. These platforms offer a more focused and potentially less toxic environment for users with shared interests.

The ethical considerations of a connected future

The future of social media presents exciting possibilities but also raises ethical concerns. Here are some issues that need to be addressed:

. The impact on mental health: Social media is linked to depression and other mental health complications. Platforms are responsible for promoting healthy online habits and creating features that support user well-being.

. The spread of misinformation: The spread of false information on social media can significantly impact society and democracy. Platforms need to implement stricter fact-checking mechanisms and educate users on media literacy.

. Data privacy and security: Data collection is becoming sophisticated, and user privacy concerns will remain paramount. Platforms must be transparent and empower users to control their data.

Social media has changed the way we communicate and interact with the world. With evolving technology, social media’s future will be more immersive, personalized & data-driven. While exciting opportunities lie ahead, addressing ethical concerns and ensuring a future where social media fosters positive connections, promotes well-being, and empowers users is crucial.

This future will require ongoing collaboration between users, platforms, and policymakers to create a responsible and equitable online environment. By harnessing the power of technology for good, social media can continue to connect us, inform us, and empower us to create a better future.

The article has been authored by The Hype Capital founder Sachin Shah.

May 24, 2024
SWA’s ‘Sab Khairiyat?’ highlights need for mental health support in writing community

Mumbai: The Screenwriters Association (SWA), a collective voice for the rights and welfare of screenwriters, recently hosted ‘Sab Khairiyat?’, a discussion focusing on seeking mental health support as writers and their challenges. Moderated by the renowned screenwriter Anjum Rajabali, the session brought together esteemed screenwriters Preeti Mamgain, Ishani Banerjee, Mitesh Shah, and Adhiraj Sharma to share their personal experiences and insights.

The session highlighted the often-overlooked mental health struggles that screenwriters face, including isolation, loneliness, the stress of meeting deadlines, and anxiety due to financial insecurity. With about 50 per cent of screenwriters enrolled in screenwriting courses seeking psychiatric help, the discussion aimed to break the taboo around the need for mental health support within the creative community and dispelling the image of the tortured artist. It also focused on the collective bargaining for the fundamental rights of writers.

Anjum Rajabali elaborated on the concept of losing oneself in the passion for writing, often abandoning reality to immerse in their fictional worlds. He discussed the dual nature of writers’ psyches, swinging between feelings of godliness and servitude, which fuels their creativity. He emphasized, “Writers have to ‘bleed on the page,’ as temporary loss of self-identity while being deeply invested in characters yields powerful results. Self-doubt is an inevitable part of the creative process and writers must embrace this journey to succeed.”

Adding further, Mitesh Shah, said, “I prefer observing my characters from a third-person perspective, which helps me grow as a writer and person. For me, achieving material success did not equate to happiness, which led me to take breaks to enjoy life.” He shared his experiences with burnout, having taken on extensive work in television writing.

President of the Screenwriter’s Association of India, Preeti Mamgain, opened up about how passion can turn into possessiveness when writers become deeply attached to the characters they create. She spoke about how letting go of her ideas and characters, especially when facing initial rejection, was extremely challenging. Learning to collaborate and accept changes to her work was traumatic but ultimately beneficial.

Adhiraj Sharma spoke about his initial desire to create his own world through writing, only to realize that even in this space, complete control was unattainable. He discussed how writing became a way to escape the real world, but as guidelines and rules came in, he found that even in his own world, he couldn’t be a god. He also highlighted the mental toll of becoming a “creative machine” in the advertising industry.

Ishani Banerjee discussed the cathartic nature of writing, where distress in characters elicits empathy from the audience. She believes that writers are merely vessels for the stories that demand to be told. She also spoke about how the interplay of distress in characters and the empathy it evokes in the audience makes the whole experience profoundly cathartic.

The event highlighted the inherent strength in safeguarding writers’ rights and ensuring fair treatment through the collective bargaining of fundamental rights. It emphasized how solidarity and support can help bring about a profound sense of security among writers and keep anxiety at bay. By nurturing dialogue, enhancing awareness, and staunchly advocating for writers’ mental well-being, the event marked a significant stride toward a more robust, equitable future for the industry.

Few highlights-

1. Passion turns into possessiveness when writers create their own world in their stories. For Preeti, letting go of the idea of the characters of her stories or facing initial rejection was an extremely difficult challenge.

2. Storytelling serves as a therapeutic outlet for writers, providing a means for self-expression and introspection amidst moments of self-doubt and existential questioning.

3. Writers have a complex relationship with their craft which can also take a toll on their mental health. From navigating the fine line between godlike control and submission to the page, to the therapeutic role, writing can play in resolving personal turmoil.

4. External factors, such as societal upheavals and personal challenges, impact the creative process, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between the writer’s craft and the world around them.

5. Writers shed light on the importance of maintaining a balance between personal struggles and their passion for storytelling and the harsh realities of the industry, revealing the delicate interplay between creativity and pragmatism.

May 24, 2024

JioCinema unveils ‘Get Set Gold’ in lead-up to Olympics Games Paris 2024

Mumbai: With less than two months to Paris 2024, India’s exclusive broadcaster Viacom18, today announced its first offering in lead up to the pinnacle of sporting glory, ‘Get Set Gold’, showcasing India’s elite Olympics athletes to audiences in a manner better than ever before. Hosted by renowned Indian cricketer and eloquent broadcaster Dinesh Karthik, the conversations will give viewers a peek into the world of the champions uncovering the unparalleled dedication that underpins their success.

Across four gripping episodes available on JioCinema, Dinesh will host current Olympics and World Javelin Throw champion Neeraj Chopra, reigning Commonwealth Games Champion Boxer Nikhat Zareen, Olympics Bronze Medal-winning Hockey Goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, and World No. 1 Badminton Men’s Doubles pair of Chirag Shetty, and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy.

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Across each episode, Dinesh shadows these exceptional athletes, participating in their rigorous training regimens, and gaining firsthand insight into the physical and mental challenges they face on the road to the ultimate glory. From early-morning workouts to late-night recovery sessions, audiences will witness the sheer determination and sacrifice invested to reach the pinnacle of Olympic glory.

“I am honoured to have got this opportunity to meet these remarkable athletes which was a humbling and inspiring experience. It gave me a profound appreciation for the sheer determination it takes to achieve ultimate glory on the world stage,” said Dinesh Karthik. “This presentation on JioCinema will give viewers a peek into these Olympians’ dedication, discipline, relentless pursuit of excellence and unwavering commitment to their dreams. Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit.”

Through candid interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, the show goes beyond the surface to explore the personal stories, setbacks, and triumphs that have shaped these athletes’ journeys, from Neeraj Chopra’s relentless pursuit of perfection to Nikhat Zareen’s unwavering resilience in the boxing ring, each episode offers a compelling story of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.

With its unique blend of entertainment and inspiration, this groundbreaking chat show promises to captivate audiences and celebrate the indomitable spirit of the Olympic athlete.

Date	Episode Featuring
May 23, 2024	Bronze Medal-winning Hockey Goalkeeper, PR Sreejesh
May 25, 2024	Two-time World Championships Gold Medallist & Reigning Commonwealth Games Champion, Nikhat Zareen
May 27, 2024	Olympic Games, World Championships, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games champion, Neeraj Chopra
May 29, 2024	World No. 1 Badminton Men’s Doubles pair, Chirag Shetty – Satwiksairaj Rankireddy

Viewers can expect an enhanced viewing experience of the Olympic games like never before, with thousands of hours of live and on-demand action across JioCinema and the Sports18 Network starting July 26, 2024. Viacom18’s comprehensive coverage of Paris 2024 will include content around must-watch events for Indian fans, Indians to watch out for at the Olympics, the greatest performances in Olympic history, unprecedented landmarks Indians can achieve at Paris 2024, and much more.

May 24, 2024

Blink Digital, Meta, and OML host workshop on using reels for performance marketing

Mumbai: Blink Digital is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Meta and Only Much Louder to deliver an intensive one-day workshop on 28 May, focused on the power of Reels in performance marketing. This initiative aims to educate brands and marketers on creating compelling, thumb-stopping content that drives both engagement and action. With the growing importance of short-form video content, the workshop will highlight the benefits of investing in Reels as high-performing assets.

Blink Digital, an award-winning independent digital agency, aims to bring their learning of global clients to India. With a staggering 100M spent on reel by Blink last year, the session will be power-packed with insights and learnings with Meta as a leading discovery platform and Only Much Louder enhancing the focus on creator content, this workshop represents a unique opportunity for brands and creators alike to stay ahead in the dynamic field of performance marketing.

Meta, India head of agency Gaurav Singh will deliver the keynote address, setting the stage for a series of sessions and workshops. Topics include ‘Reels in Modern Marketing’ by Anoop Menon, Agency Partner at Meta, India, and ‘Creating High-Performance Reels’ by Dia Kirpalani, Head of Creative Strategy at Blink Digital.

“This initiative is designed to educate brands at the forefront of the digital ecosystem,” said Blink Digital co-founder and COO Rikki Agarwal. He added, “Utilising short-form video content on Reels is crucial for brands to thrive online. We grasp the nuances of the global market and aim to bring those insights to India. At Blink Digital, we are convinced that creativity is paramount, and when executed well, it drives the performance brands require.”

Only Much Louder CEO Gunjan Arya added, “We are excited to bring our network of creators and brand partners to this workshop, with whom OML has had the privilege to keep in step with as the platform has grown. Borrowing from our insights having worked with over 10,000+ creators in 20+ countries, we are offering participants real-world insights and practical tips on creating impactful Reels. We assure you that everyone attending will gain valuable knowledge and skills, making this workshop beneficial for both brands and creators alike.”

Join us for an exclusive session where we share our insider secrets. Learn how to optimise your media spending, ensure each investment delivers exceptional ROI, and drive remarkable growth. RSVP now to secure your spot and take the first step toward unlocking your brand’s full potential.

You can register and see the agenda here – https://blinkdigital.in/metaday/

When – Tuesday, 28th May

Time – 10:30 am onwards

Where – Meta Office, One BKC, Mumbai

May 24, 2024
It’s Manchester Derby in the epic FA Cup final showdown

Mumbai: On 25 May 2024, the battle lines are drawn as two titans of English football, Manchester United and Manchester City, collide in the prestigious Emirates FA Cup Finals at Wembley Stadium. This titanic showdown promises to be a spectacle like no other, as these two football powerhouses fight for glory and supremacy on the grand stage.

Manchester United, a club rich in history and tradition, is determined to reclaim their spot as English football giants, while Manchester City aims to defend their title and assert their dominance once again. The rivalry between these two fierce competitors adds an extra layer of intensity to what is already set to be a thrilling encounter.

Last year, Manchester City emerged victorious in a dramatic final, with lkay Gündoan scoring the fastest goal ever in an FA Cup final. However, Manchester United, led by the talismanic Bruno Fernandes, is eager for revenge and eager to unlock City’s defence to secure a memorable victory.

Football fans in India are in for a treat as they witness the intensity of this historic rivalry unfold Streaming live on Sony LIV. With stakes higher than ever, every moment will be pulsating with excitement as these two powerhouse clubs leave it all on the pitch in their quest for FA Cup supremacy.

Don’t miss out on this historic showdown! Catch the Emirates FA Cup 2024 final live on Sony LIV on 25 May 2024, starting at 7:30 pm IST.

May 24, 2024
“We believe technology plays a critical role at every stage of fresh supply chain”: Amazon India’s Harsh Goyal

Mumbai: Amazon Fresh recently released the second edition of its ‘Nahi toh Mehenga Padega’ campaign, starring actor Manoj Bajpayee as the beloved character ‘Ghanshyam’. This quirky campaign, conceptualized by MediaMonks and directed by Harshvardhan Kulkarni, humorously depicts the common struggle of online grocery shopping, while emphasizing Amazon Fresh’s commitment to value, quality, and convenience.

Delving deeper, Indiantelevision.com caught up with Amazon India director – grocery, Harsh Goyal to gain insights on the second edition of Amazon Fresh’s ‘Nahi toh Mehenga Padega’ campaign, Amazon Fresh’s differentiating aspect in the Indian market and more…

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1w6BX6sDOI2ZvOfcJLvSEEWipgqvgE1N

Edited Excerpts:

On the inspiration behind the concept of the second edition of the ‘Nahi toh Mehenga Padega’ campaign

The relatable character ‘Ghanshyaam’, played by Manoj Bajpayee in our Amazon Fresh ad campaigns – ‘Nahi toh Mehenga Padega’, embodies the problem that a common person has with buying groceries online. Basis our insights and research, consumers are primarily looking for value and quality in grocery items. Our recent ad campaign highlights both these aspects in a comical act where in a hurry to get groceries, customer misses out on savings and good quality. This creative approach not only captivates the audience but also deepens the brand’s relationship with them. Amazon Fresh gives consumers incredible savings via bank offers and cashbacks, no delivery fee and excellent quality of fruits and vegetables.

On Amazon Fresh differentiating itself in the Indian market amidst growing competition and the challenges that Amazon Fresh tackles posed by quick commerce competitors

Grocery is a massive market and we believe various formats will co-exist, serving different consumer needs. For example, Amazon Fresh’s value proposition is not just speed but equally an extensive range of daily consumption products, incredible savings for consumers and superior quality of fruits and vegetables, delivered to customers in two-hour slots. Regardless, Amazon is continuously improving the speed at which we deliver orders to customers. Amazon deliver millions of items to customers on the same day, which is by far the largest selection delivered same day in India.

On the role of technology in ensuring the freshness and quality of groceries delivered to consumers

We believe technology plays a critical role at every stage of fresh supply chain, starting from collection centres where we buy directly from farmers and pay them quickly, to an end-to-end temperature-controlled supply chain. We have shelf monitoring cameras which feed into ML models and help us spot quality defects. At Amazon we have built an ecosystem through a team of qualified agronomists offering agri-tech expertise to registered farmer partners for better farm yield and improved product quality. The agronomy services is an application, interface through machine learning and computer-vision based algorithms that simplify supply chain processes, helps farmers to identify defects (rotting, spots, cuts, mould) in fruits and vegetables, and reduces wastage of produce. All the fresh produce is sourced directly from farmers registered with Amazon sellers at the collection centre and after a thorough quality inspection, is dispatched to the processing centres. The fresh produce is then sorted, graded, and hygienically packed in different sizes at the processing centres and dispatched to Amazon Fresh fulfilment centres located closer to customers, to fulfil delivery promises. We will keep inventing to improve product quality and supply chain efficiency to ensure our customers receive best quality produce.

On the specific trends that Amazon Fresh has observed in the Indian market during the summer season

During this mango season, we’ve observed significant shifts in market trends and consumer preferences on Amazon Fresh. Our top-selling mango varieties include Banganpally, Ratnagiri Alphonso, Mango Sindhura, Mango Totapuri, and Mango Kesar, with Banganpally emerging as a versatile favorite across India. We’re also seeing growing interest in regional specialties such as Gulabkhas and Chinnarasalu, highlighting a broader consumer inclination towards exploring unique and local flavors.

In terms of geographical trends, Bangalore leads in mango purchases among metro cities, while Ahmedabad and Pune are showing strong engagement in non-metro areas. Furthermore, we’ve noticed an uptick in demand for ice creams and dairy beverages, with a 20 per cent and 33 per centincrease in customer base for these categories, respectively. At Amazon Fresh, we leverage these insights to continually enhance our offerings, curating thematic stores such as Mango, IPL, and Summer Store to cater to diverse tastes and preferences, ensuring exceptional quality, value, and convenience for our customers.

On Amazon Fresh leveraging learnings from its global operations to adapt and excel in the Indian market

Some of the supply chain, last mile and storage technology that we use in India has been perfected first in global markets. We adapt that technology for local needs. Indian market is obliviously unique in many ways. For example, the farming sector in India is quite unorganized, which made us build a direct farm to fork supply chain in the country, along with cold storage facilities. Customer’s grocery preferences change every 100 kilometers and there are lots of festivals during the year where customer need changes and we had to make our selection very local and dynamic.

May 24, 2024
Assamese film The Woodcutter premieres Its trailer at Cannes to highlight an environmental crisis

Mumbai: The trailer of the Assamese film “The Woodcutter” was unveiled at the Bharat Pavilion at the Cannes Film Festival in the presence of Hollywood actress Judi Beecher, Therese Anselmsson, a producer from Sweeden, Maynard Kraak, a producer from South Africa and Raaj Raahi producer & distributor from USA, further highlighting the global significance of “The Woodcutter.”

Produced by duo Dr JV Manisha Bajaj and Tarsem Antil and directed by Prakash Deka, who belongs to a tribal community from the Northeastern part of India, The Woodcutter” has already garnered attention for its compelling narrative and powerful performances.

Selected as part of the NFDC Screenwriters Lab 2021, the film has since received three official selections in international film festivals, further solidifying its status as a must-watch cinematic experience.

Set against the backdrop of a changing world, “The Woodcutter” delves into the heart of tradition versus modernity, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and the enduring power of music. Bonojit, a forty-year-old folk musician, grapples with the challenges of preserving his craft in the face of societal judgment and personal turmoil. His daughter, Munu, becomes a poignant symbol of the generational divide as she confronts her father’s profession and its impact on their family.

Dr JV Manisha Bajaj expresses her excitement for the film’s Cannes debut, stating, “We are thrilled to share the trailer for ‘The Woodcutter’ with audiences at Cannes. This film is a testament to the rich tapestry of Indian storytelling and the universal themes it explores.”

Led by Baharul Islam, the cast delivers stellar performances that breathe life into the film’s poignant story. Renowned talents from Assam, including Sharmistha Chkarvoty, Pratibha Choudhary, and Prajalika, showcase their depth and versatility, enriching the narrative with authenticity and emotion.

The musical of the film is composed by national award winner Tarali Sarma, whose soul-stirring melodies resonate throughout the story, enhancing its emotional impact. Sound design, crafted by national award winners Amrit Pritam and Debit Shanghai, further elevates the immersive experience, transporting audiences into the heart of Bonojit’s world.

Tarsem Antil adds, “Cannes is the perfect platform to showcase the talent and dedication that went into creating this film. We hope that audiences worldwide will be captivated by the story of Bonojit and his journey to find harmony amidst chaos.”

With its blend of captivating visuals, emotive storytelling, and unforgettable performances, “The Woodcutter” promises to leave a lasting impression on audiences when it hits theatres.

May 23, 2024