ITV

Category: Social Media

  • Entertainer’s Cricket League targets 400 crore valuation in first season

    Entertainer’s Cricket League targets 400 crore valuation in first season

    Mumbai: The Entertainer’s Cricket League, the first of its kind social media celebrity-based cricketing league is expected to generate a revenue of over 30 crores in the first season alone. League founders, Anil Kumar and Himanshu Chandnani have rounded up an elite set of captains including Abhishek Malhan, Sonu Sharma, Elvish Yadav, Harsh Beniwal, Munawar Faruqui and Anurag Dwivedi who will pick their own team to compete in this T10 cricket league.

    “The Entertainer’s Cricket League presents a unique opportunity for corporates and brands as it opens them up to the world of Influencer marketing, the fastest-growing vertical in the marketing industry. Not only does this give them direct access to an individual team’s 15 social media celebrities but also broader access to the wider pool of talent that they can associate with. It’s simple, this is a one-stop solution for any brand because they will have 150 creators under the same roof at the same time.” said Entertainer’s Cricket League founder Himanshu Chandnani.

    The creators will each lead one of the six franchises with each team further picking in the form of the draft from a vast pool of 250 popular social media celebrities out of which 96 social media celebrities will make the final cut. These will include popular creators across multiple industries such as technology, finance, infotainment, education, motivation & self-help, and entertainment including vloggers, gaming, fashion and lifestyle from India. The Entertainer’s Cricket League will turn out to be the ultimate experience for content lovers across the country.

    “We are excited to be a part of this huge amalgamation between cricket and culture and are backing our initial aim of building an inclusive community for all kinds of social media celebrities. We look forward to the first step in what will definitely prove to be a legacy league in India and revolutionize the way brands and corporations can optimize their marketing strategies. With the launch of the ECL, we aim to make the community of social media celebrities more accessible for corporations and on the flipside also give smaller celebrities creative and monetary opportunities.” Entertainer’s Cricket League founder Anil Kumar signed off.

    ECL is currently in the process of finalizing broadcasting rights with an undisclosed broadcaster which will only elevate the scale on which this league will reach almost an expected viewership of 100 crore. The league is expected to be played in the latter half of the year. 

  • Badal drops song “140” with GD47 and Yeah Proof

    Badal drops song “140” with GD47 and Yeah Proof

    Mumbai: Coming in hot after his last successful releases, Badal continues to amaze his audience with his latest hip-hop release “140,”  from Not Your Type album that features GD47, a rapper whose journey is as gripping as his verses from HUSTLE. The song captures the thrill of speed and the reckless embrace of a live-fast-die-young philosophy.

    “140” video bursts with a vibrant energy and is shot in a pretty casual yet catchy way by Inflict. The video captures the frenetic energy of life on the edge with cars racing down the freeway in which Badal and GD47 bring the lyrics to life with their raw and captivating intensity. They move with a swaggering confidence, their every gesture is infused with energy, the spirit of rebellion and freedom that the song embodies.

    Music by Yeah Proof is just as dynamic as the video. The track explodes with an infectious, hard-hitting energy from the first beat and has kept the meter high during the whole track.

    It’s a glimpse into a world where the only thing that matters is pushing the limits, a world where Badal and GD47 lead the charge by embracing speed and the thrill of the unknown.

    Badal, known for his distinctive style shared his excitement about the track, “Creating ‘140’ was exhilarating. It’s about pushing boundaries and living life to the fullest. I believe it will resonate with anyone who lives life on the edge and embraces bold ambition.” ‘140’ is just a taste, a glimpse into the heart of my upcoming album, ‘Not Your Type’ which i have made with all my heart keeping my roots and my expression in mind.

    GD47, whose collaboration on “140” adds a unique dimension to the track, commented, “Working with Badal and Yeah Proof on this project was incredible. ‘140’ captures raw energy that I surely believe will connect with fans of hip-hop everywhere.” It’s very important for me to stay true to my kind of music and that’s what I have made sure to do in 140 as well. In my rap section you will see the raw, unfiltered expression of my artistic voice.

    Artiste First’s curator Rohit Sobti expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “We are thrilled to present ‘140’ as the first glimpse into Badal’s upcoming album, Not Your Type. This track captures the essence of modern hip-hop and Swag of our artiste.”

    “140” promises to be a standout addition to the hip-hop scene.

  • Weekend Unwind with Dr. Mitali Rathod

    Weekend Unwind with Dr. Mitali Rathod

    Mumbai: With another weekend upon us, it is time to unwind with the latest Q&A edition of Indiantelevision.com’s Weekend Unwind—a series of informal chats that peek into the minds of business executives through a fun lens in an attempt to get to know the person behind the title a little better.

    In this week’s session, we have obstetrician & gynaecologist and content creator Dr. Mitali Rathod aka Dr.uterus.

    Without further ado, here it goes…

    Your mantra for life

    Everything is an ebbing flow let it flow.

    A book you are currently reading?

    May be you should talk to someone.

    Your fitness mantra, especially during the pandemic

    Show up in some size shape & form each day.

    Your comfort food?

    Rice with green leafy veggies.

    When the chips are down a quote/ philosophy that keeps you going?

    This too shall pass.

    Your guilty pleasure?

    Sleeping like there’s no tomorrow.

    When was the last time you tried something new?

    Thanks to my two jobs being a full time consultant doctor & part time creator I try something new each day.

    A Life lesson you learnt the hard way?

    Not everyone put on the same efforts as you.

    What gets you excited about life?

    New day everyday.

    What’s on top of your bucket list?

    Traveling the world.

    If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

    I would hug her and say you’re doing enough love don’t worry it will get better for sure.

    One thing you would most like to change about the world?

    Patriarchy.

    An activity that keeps you motivated/charged during tough times?

    My daily practices like exercises, meditation & proper sleep.

    What lifts your spirits when life gets you down?

    Prayers.

    Your go-to stress buster?

    Sleep & creating content.

  • Anthony Jeselnik to take India by storm!

    Anthony Jeselnik to take India by storm!

    Mumbai: Get ready, India! The king of dark comedy, Anthony Jeselnik, is all set to make his India debut, bringing the ‘Bones and All’ tour to our shores. Presented by ‘The DeadAnt Loop’ – a new IP by DeadAnt Live that offers unparalleled live experiences across the country featuring comedy from around the world – the tour will see Jeselnik perform in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru from 8 to 10 August 2024.

    Over a career spanning over two decades, Anthony has carved a niche for himself in the world of stand-up comedy. Here are five compelling reasons you shouldn’t miss Anthony’s maiden tour of India:

    . Experience Jeselnik’s Signature Dark Humour Live- Anthony Jeselnik is famous for his razor-sharp wit and dark humour. His comedy often dives into taboo subjects with a fearless, unapologetic approach that will leave you gasping for air, in the best way possible. Watching him live is an electrifying experience that just can’t be replicated through a screen.

    .  Witness a Master of Delivery and Timing- Jeselnik’s comic timing and deadpan delivery is nothing short of impeccable. His ability to build up tension and deliver punch-lines with precision makes his live shows uniquely captivating. Each joke is a perfectly crafted piece of art that you need to see in person to truly appreciate.

    .  A Rare Opportunity for Indian Audiences- This is Anthony Jeselnik’s first tour in India, making it a historic and rare event for comedy fans in the country. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the audience that gets to see one of the world’s top comedians perform live right in your city.

    .  Engage with Thought-Provoking Comedy- Jeselnik’s humour does more than just make you laugh, it makes you think. His jokes challenge societal norms and provoke thought, offering sharp insights wrapped in wickedly funny packages. It is comedy that entertains and stimulates the mind, leaving you laughing and pondering long after the show ends.

    .  Join a Night of Unforgettable Laughter- There’s nothing quite like the atmosphere of a live comedy show. The shared laughter, the collective gasps, the contagious energy of a room full of comedy fans, it’s an experience like no other. Jeselnik’s ‘Bones and All’ act promises a night of side-splitting laughter that you’ll be talking about for weeks.

  • Five tips for young brands to boost their social media engagement

    Five tips for young brands to boost their social media engagement

    Social media has become an indispensable tool for brands to connect with their audience, build rapport, and drive business growth. Establishing a strong social media presence for small brands can be challenging but extremely rewarding. Here are five tips to help young brands successfully increase social media engagement:

    1. Understand and know your audience

    Before you can talk about your audience, you need to understand who they are. Identifying your target audience is essential to creating relevant content. Here’s how you can get started:

    Conduct market research

    Polls and surveys: Use polls and surveys to gather demographic information, preferences, and opinions from your audience.

    Analyze competitors: Study your competitors’ followers and engagement strategies to understand what works in your industry.

    Create an audience persona

    Create a comprehensive profile of your ideal customers, including their age, gender, interests, pain points, and social media habits. This will help you tailor your content to their needs and preferences.

    Use analytics tools

    Use social media analytics tools like Facebook Insights, Instagram Analytics, and Twitter Analytics to gain insights into your audience’s behavior, engagement patterns, and content preferences

    2. Create high-quality, relevant content

    Content is the cornerstone of social media engagement. To capture and retain the audience’s attention, focus on creating high-quality, relevant content that adds value to their lives.

    Images and videos: Use attractive images and videos to get attention. Visuals will likely be shared and discussed.

    Infographics: Create informative infographics that simplify complex information and provide value to your audience.

    Creative a narrative and history

    Speak persuasively in line with your audience’s experiences and emotions. Share background stories, customer testimonials, and success stories that create a deeper connection with your audience.

    Testimonials

    Encourage your followers to do brand-related content. User-generated content (UGC) not only increases engagement but also trust and authenticity. Credit the creators for reposting the UGC on your social media channels

    3. Actively engage with your audience

    Weddings are a two-way street. Actively engaging with your audience helps build relationships and creates a sense of community around your brand.

    Respond promptly

    Respond to comments, messages, and comments in a timely manner. Show appreciation for the positive feedback and address any concerns or questions promptly and professionally.

    Hosting Q&A sessions

    Host live Q&A sessions on platforms like Instagram Live, Facebook Live, or Twitter Spaces. This allows your audience to interact with you in real-time and creates a real connection with your brand.

    Run contests and giveaways

    Contests and giveaways are great ways to increase engagement and reach. Participants must encourage friends to like, comment, share and tag to enter. Make sure the reward is appropriate and valuable to your audience.

    4. Leverage influencer partnerships

    Influencer marketing can dramatically increase your brand’s visibility and engagement. Teaming up with influencers who share your brand values and have a strong following can help you reach a wider audience.

    Choose the right influencers

    Find that influential audience that matches your target demographic. Consider their level of engagement, authenticity, and quality of their information.

    Work together in a constructive way

    Work with influencers to create authentic, engaging content that highlights your brand. Allow influencers to add their own touch to content to ensure it resonates with their followers.

    Consider the impact

    Monitor the performance of your influencer campaigns through metrics such as engagement rates, reach and conversions. This will help you understand the effectiveness of the partnership and make appropriate decisions for future cooperation.

    5. Use social media trends and features

    Staying up to date with the latest social media trends and features can boost your brand and boost your reputation.

    Jump to trends

    Participate in trending topics, challenges and hashtags relevant to your brand. This can be more informative and make your content better known.

    Use platform-specific features

    Each social media platform offers unique features that can improve your content and engagement. Example:

    Instagram reels: Create short, engaging videos that showcase your products, tutorials, or behind-the-scenes moments.

    Twitter Threads: Share news or details in related tweets.

    Facebook Groups: Create a niche community around your brand and interact with them.

    Try a new format

    Don’t be afraid to experiment with new content formats and features. Experimenting with different content can help you figure out what resonates with your audience the most and keep your social media presence fresh and engaging.

    Conclusion

    Boosting social media engagement for young brands requires a strategic approach and a genuine connection with your audience. By understanding your audience, creating high-quality content, actively engaging, leveraging influencer partnerships, and staying updated with trends, you can build a strong and engaged community around your brand. Remember, social media is a dynamic space, so be flexible and ready to adapt your strategy as you learn and grow.

    The article has been authored by Digidarts founder & CEO Siddhartha Vanvani.

  • FilterCopy and Maruti Suzuki WagonR present ‘Bada Sheher Choti Family’

    FilterCopy and Maruti Suzuki WagonR present ‘Bada Sheher Choti Family’

    Mumbai: Pocket Aces, a leading digital entertainment media company, announced a fresh new mini-series, “Bada Sheher Choti Family,” under their creative studio, FilterCopy in collaboration with Maruti Suzuki WagonR. The three-episode series, with each episode ranging from 8 to 10 minutes, offers a delightful and relatable portrayal of a middle-class family embarking on a life-changing journey.

    “Bada Sheher Choti Family“, starring Nakuul Mehta and Erica Fernandes, unfolds the charming tale of Shruti, Kartik, and their adorable daughter, Navya (Navu), as they transition from their quaint hometown of Indore to the vibrant metropolis of Mumbai. Through their eyes, viewers are taken on a rollercoaster of emotions, experiencing the thrills and challenges of adapting to a new city, the quest for belonging, and the comforting embrace of unwavering family love.

    Maruti Suzuki WagonR emerges as a star in this series, epitomising the quintessential family car with its roomy design and outstanding mileage. As Kartik and his family navigate their new life in Mumbai, the car becomes a sanctuary of comfort and dependability, seamlessly integrating into their daily adventures and reinforcing the pivotal role of family values. Each episode draws perfect parallels between life and the car’s features, like the spacious seating that embraces the entire family, the intuitive auto gear shift that mirrors the evolving dynamics of family life, and the smartphone navigation system that guides them through the unfamiliar streets of Mumbai, ensuring they always find their way home.

    This collaboration between FilterCopy and Maruti Suzuki masterfully intertwines storytelling with brand synergy, crafting a heartwarming narrative that highlights the power of family and resilience. Maruti Suzuki WagonR enriches the storyline, presenting itself as the ultimate companion for families embracing the challenges of a new city.

    Pocket Aces D2C head Vishwanath Shetty expresses, “We are incredibly excited to present ‘Bada Sheher Choti Family’ on FilterCopy. Pocket Aces has always been at the forefront when it comes to D2C content, whether it’s fiction or non-fiction. As part of our strategy this year, we are focused on creating more fiction mini-series on FilterCopy, and this association with Maruti Suzuki WagonR is a significant step in that direction. This mini-series has been carefully crafted to showcase how Maruti Suzuki WagonR is the perfect fit for a family car. With its spacious design and impressive features, it complements the journey of our characters as they navigate life in a big city. We hope to continue this association with Maruti Suzuki and bring you more heartfelt stories in the future.”

    “Maruti Suzuki India Limited is proud to partner with Pocket Aces for ‘Bada Sheher Choti Family.’ This mini-series aligns perfectly with the values that Maruti Suzuki stands for – family, reliability, and resilience. Maruti Suzuki WagonR is more than just a car; it’s a trusted companion for families navigating the journey of life. We hope this series resonates with audiences and reinforces the importance of family bonds,” says Maruti Suzuki India Ltd.

  • SEBI cracks down on finfluencers, ensures integrity in financial advice

    SEBI cracks down on finfluencers, ensures integrity in financial advice

    Mumbai:  The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has taken a decisive step by banning regulated entities from associating with unregistered influencers. This crackdown targets anyone who provides financial advice or makes claims about securities without Sebi’s registration.

    In today’s accessible digital world, to regulate the affairs in the financial sector finfluencers use platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, and several mobile and gaming apps to spread their financial advisers, and investment ideas and even promote specific stocks or shares of certain companies for their (finfluencers’s) marketing and revenue point of view. These affect stock prices and investment choices of people by finfluencers but the problem is that often their data is basically unreliable information and actions are unaccountable because they are not licensed and not qualified.

    Since the finfluencers are not licensed and not qualified, they mislead investors and put their money at risk, and involve themselves in stock manipulation by elevating prices of certain stocks by convincing their followers to buy them which increase the value of those stocks and in a ripple effects decrease the prices of stocks of rival companies thus degrading the integrity the status of the Indian financial markets.

    Previously, The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has developed criteria for influencers who might affect people’s purchasing and investing decisions. They further said that Influencers must offer clear and visible disclaimers in their text or video material if they accept any kind of remuneration from a business or product they recommend.

    Indiantelevision.com reached out to industry experts for their opinion regarding this massive step.

    Whoppl founder Ramya Ramachandran stated, “For any industry, giving half-baked information or having limited knowledge and claiming expertise is always incorrect because people trust that the information provided is well-researched and accurate. Influencers giving advice on health, finance, or food without the right qualifications is especially problematic. While some influencers take extra steps to thoroughly understand the brands they promote, many do not. This issue extends beyond influencers to celebrities who often endorse products they do not use. Media outlets also sometimes fail to perform proper due diligence.

    It is particularly risky when influencers give advice without due diligence, as their followers might make significant financial or health decisions based on this advice. This is why there’s a call for better monitoring and perhaps certification to ensure influencers are qualified to give such advice. Product reviews and testimonials should be clearly marked as personal opinions of the individual influencer.

    To ensure transparency and quality, there should be protocols requiring only qualified individuals to discuss certain topics. This should apply across industries, including media houses, celebrity endorsements, and influencers. The entire ecosystem needs to be revised to maintain a high level of transparency and clarity.”

    According to Media Care Brand Solutions director Yasin Hamidani, “The SEBI crackdown on finfluencers, prohibiting SEBI-registered entities from associating with unregistered financial influencers, is a necessary and timely measure aimed at safeguarding market integrity and protecting retail investors.

    The rise of social media has given birth to a new breed of influencers who provide financial advice and investment recommendations. While many finfluencers are knowledgeable and ethical, the industry is also rife with misinformation and unqualified advice, leading to potential financial losses for uninformed investors. SEBI’s stringent regulations are designed to curb these risks by ensuring that only qualified and registered individuals provide financial guidance.

    This crackdown will have significant implications for the finfluencer community. Unregistered finfluencers will face challenges in monetizing their content through partnerships with SEBI-registered entities. This move may lead to a decline in the number of finfluencers who lack formal qualifications or registration, thereby raising the overall quality and reliability of financial advice available to the public.”

    He sheds some light for the retail investors, “For retail investors, this regulation brings a layer of protection. They can now be more confident that the advice they receive from SEBI-registered entities is credible and compliant with regulatory standards. This will help in making more informed investment decisions and reducing the risk of financial missteps caused by unverified recommendations.”

    He further continues, “Finfluencers need to adapt to this new regulatory landscape by seeking SEBI registration, if eligible, to continue offering investment advice. Alternatively, they can pivot their content strategy towards financial education, general market analysis, and personal finance tips that do not constitute direct financial advice.

    SEBI’s crackdown is a step in the right direction for ensuring the integrity of financial markets and protecting retail investors. While it imposes new challenges on the finfluencer community, it ultimately promotes a more trustworthy and reliable financial advisory ecosystem. Finfluencers who adapt to these regulations will likely emerge stronger and more credible, benefiting both themselves and their audience.”

    Pulp Strategy founder & MD Ambika Sharma highlighted, “The recent semi-crackdown on finance influencers is a commendable move towards protecting consumer rights and ensuring a responsible digital ecosystem. In an era where digital platforms wield immense influence over financial decisions, it is imperative to address the misinformation that can mislead consumers and cause significant financial harm.

    The finance influencer space has grown exponentially, with many individuals gaining substantial followings by sharing financial advice and investment tips. While some influencers provide valuable insights, there is a growing concern about the accuracy and reliability of the information being disseminated. The allure of quick profits and sensationalist claims often overshadows sound financial advice, leading many unsuspecting consumers astray.”

    From the brands and agencies perspective, she said, “Agencies and brands must exercise due diligence in selecting influencers to partner with, ensuring that these individuals have the requisite expertise and credibility. The onus is on agencies to conduct thorough background checks and verify qualifications before endorsements. Brands must prioritize consumer safety over promotional gains by aligning with influencers who uphold ethical standards and provide truthful information.”

    She continues further, “Social media platforms and digital content platforms must implement stringent policies to monitor and regulate content shared by finance influencers. This includes flagging and removing misleading information, promoting content from verified sources, and providing tools for consumers to report suspicious or false information. Platforms can play a crucial role in protecting consumers from financial misinformation.

    Government intervention is crucial. Regulatory bodies must establish clear guidelines and regulations governing the dissemination of financial information by influencers, including defining qualifications, setting standards for disclosure of affiliations and sponsorships, and enforcing penalties for non-compliance.

    Education also plays a vital role in empowering consumers to navigate the digital landscape safely. Financial literacy programs should be promoted to enhance the public’s understanding of basic financial principles and the potential risks associated with following unverified financial advice.

    In conclusion, the semi-crackdown on finance influencers is a positive step towards protecting consumer rights and ensuring a safe digital ecosystem. By working together to uphold ethical standards, promote accurate information, and educate consumers, we can create a digital environment that fosters trust, transparency, and financial well-being.”

     

  • Sunburn Festival climbs to #11 on DJ Mag’s top 100 festivals in the 2024 worldwide list

    Sunburn Festival climbs to #11 on DJ Mag’s top 100 festivals in the 2024 worldwide list

    Mumbai: Sunburn Festival, Asia’s premier electronic dance music festival, has achieved a significant milestone by securing the #11 spot on DJ Mag’s prestigious ‘Top 100 Festivals in 2024’ worldwide list. This accolade underscores Sunburn’s growing influence and reputation on the global stage, making it the highest-ranked music festival from Asia on this year’s list.

    Since its inception in 2007, Sunburn has pushed the boundaries with its world-class production, top-tier artist lineups, vibrant atmosphere and fan experiences catered to the youth. Celebrating its 18th edition this year, the festival has become synonymous with the ultimate electronic dance music experience, attracting music enthusiasts from around the globe. Held annually in the picturesque coastal state of Goa, India, the festival has grown from a modest gathering to a global phenomenon, attracting hundreds of thousands of attendees.

    “We are incredibly proud to see Sunburn Festival recognised as one of the top festivals in the world and as the leading music festival in Asia”, said Sunburn CEO Karan Singh. “Securing the #11 spot in DJ Magazine’s Top 100 Festivals is a tribute to the dedication of our team and the unwavering support of our fans. This recognition fuels our passion to continue pushing boundaries and creating unforgettable experiences at Sunburn. A big shout out and thank you to all fans, artists, government authorities, brand partners, and the DJ Mag team. It means a lot.”

    Sunburn’s rise to #11 places it among global festival giants such as Tomorrowland, EDC Las Vegas, Untold Festival, Ultra Music Festival, Creamfields and Coachella. This achievement not only validates Sunburn’s global appeal but also underscores its influential role in shaping the global electronic music scene.

    Sunburn’s ascent in the global festival rankings highlights its dedication to excellence and innovation, reinforcing Goa’s position as a premier destination for music lovers and cultural explorers alike. As the festival continues to evolve and rise in global prominence, it remains a beacon of inspiration for other festivals in the region and beyond. Sunburn Festival is dedicated to fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange through the universal language of music, with its success reflecting its ability to bring together people from diverse backgrounds and create unforgettable memories that resonate long after the music has stopped.

    The 2024 edition of Sunburn Festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring an eclectic mix of international and local artists, cutting-edge stage designs and immersive experiences that cater to a diverse audience. Attendees can expect electrifying performances, breath-taking visuals and a sense of community that defines the spirit of Sunburn.

    International artists who have performed at Sunburn’s Festival and Arena shows in India have had wonderful experiences and shared positive reflections about interacting with their fans on Indian shores.

    Timmy Trumpet stated, “Namaste India! I love you so much. Always had this on my dream list to play at the Sunburn Festival to be here after so many years. It’s just a dream come true, thank you for your support!”

    Hardwell stated, “India in general, I think it’s probably my biggest fan base. It feels like a second home to be here. People really know my music here; they love my music!”

    Korolova stated, “It’s amazing I like to come back to Sunburn Goa, every time it’s an amazing  experience, the crowd is amazing and the stage, OMG!”

    Vinai stated, “Sunburn Goa is the one that everyone wants to play here. Sunburn is the no. 1 music festival in India, the best event with the best stage, love you guys so much!”

    Tungevaag stated, “Sunburn was on my bucket list for many years, it feels great to be here!”

    Kahani & Kunal Merchant stated, “Big pleasure to be here, we’ve been waiting to come to India since we started this 2 years later at one of the biggest stages in Asia!”

    For more information about Sunburn and its upcoming events, visit Sunburn – Asia’s Largest Music Festival.

  • Snapchat announces new safety features designed to reinforce real friend connections

    Snapchat announces new safety features designed to reinforce real friend connections

    Mumbai: With a focus on fostering a safe and positive in-app experience, Snapchat has introduced a suite of new safety features all designed to strengthen and reinforce the real friend relationships that make Snapchat so unique. These new features aim to further safeguard teens and the broader community from online harms.

    To kick off an essential dialogue on teen online safety, Snapchat hosted a panel discussion featuring influential parents Tisca Chopra and Maria Goretti, actor and Snap Star Nitanshi Goel,  Aparajita Bharti, co-founder of Young Leaders for Active Citizenship (YLAC) and Uthara Ganesh, head of public policy at Snap. The panel explored critical topics such as the importance of digital literacy, maximizing the use of available online resources, and maintaining open dialogues with teenagers at home.

    The evening concluded with the introduction of Snapchat’s new suite of tools, including 1) improved blocking capabilities 2) simplified location-sharing 3) enhanced friending protections and 4) expanded in-chat warnings. These expanded products build on Snapchat’s ongoing work to make it difficult for strangers to contact people.

    Snap Inc. head of public policy-South Asia  Uthara Ganesh added, “Snapchat has always been a unique space where you can truly be yourself and connect with your real friends. Young people across India love spending time on our platform, and we are dedicated to making it a safe and positive place for everyone, especially teens. Our newest safety features are all about supporting genuine friendships, empowering teens to make smart choices, and ensuring that every Snapchatter feels secure and confident while using our app.”

    Blocking improvements

    The platform has long offered tools for Snapchatters to easily block someone if they no longer wish to be in touch with them. Sometimes, bad actors create new accounts and continue to contact people who have blocked them. To prevent bullying and potential repeat harassment, we’re introducing improvements to our blocking tools: blocking a user will also now block new friend requests sent from other accounts created on the same device, to further limit outreach from other existing or new accounts created by the blocked account.

    Simplified location-sharing and additional reminders

    Snapchatters – including teens – are sent regular reminders to check their account security and privacy settings, and Snapchatters can only share their location with people they are friends with. Now we’re introducing more frequent reminders to make sure that Snapchatters are always up to date on which friends they’re sharing their location with on the Snap Map. We’re also introducing simplified location-sharing, making it faster and easier for Snapchatters to customize which of their friends can see their location.

    Enhanced friending protections

    Previously Snapchat had announced teens will not be suggested in Quick Add or Search unless they have multiple mutual connections in common with the other person. The platform is now adding new friending safeguards that make it much harder for strangers to find and add teens. We will prevent delivery of a friend request altogether when teens send or receive a friend request from someone they don’t have mutual friends with, and that person also has a history of accessing Snapchat in locations often associated with scamming activity. This applies regardless of whether the friend request was sent out by the teen, or sent to the teen from the suspected bad actor.

    This feature is currently available in a select few countries and will be introduced in a more localized form in India soon.

    Expanded in-app warnings

    Snapchat has introduced a pop-up warning when a teen receives a message from someone they don’t already share mutual friends with or have in their contacts. The message informs teens of the potential risk so they can carefully consider if they want to be in contact, and reminds them to only connect with people they trust.

    Now the platform is expanding these in-app warnings to incorporate new and advanced signals. Teens will now see a warning message if they receive a chat from someone who has been blocked or reported by others, or is from a region where the teen’s network isn’t typically located – signs that the person may be a scammer. This feature will be made available in the US, UK, CA, AU, NZ, Nordics, and parts of Europe.  

    Further commenting on Snapchat’s safety features, Tisca Chopra, actor, author & celebrity mom, said, “With teenagers spending so much time online, ensuring a safe digital environment is crucial today. I make it a point to stay informed about my daughter’s digital activities without being too intrusive. I appreciate Snapchat’s focus on safety through its platform design, demonstrating a commitment to protecting young users. By fostering a secure space, Snapchat helps our teenagers interact with confidence and peace of mind. This thoughtful approach also encourages open conversations between parents and their teenagers about responsible digital behaviour, essential for navigating the digital landscape safely.”

    Maria Goretti, actor, TV host & celebrity mom, added, “Our teens are at a sensitive age, and it’s important for us as parents to understand their digital lives while ensuring they know their boundaries. My teenagers use Snapchat regularly, and it’s comforting to know they are in a safe environment. Snapchat’s proactive stance on user safety reassures me that my teens can connect with their real friends in a positive space. Their genuine commitment to protecting users is something every parent can appreciate.”

    These new tools build on the platform’s ongoing commitment to help Snapchatters communicate with their close friends in an environment that prioritizes their safety, privacy, and well-being.

  • “Tinder’s mission is to keep the magic of human connection alive:” Anukool Kumar

    “Tinder’s mission is to keep the magic of human connection alive:” Anukool Kumar

    Mumbai: This Pride month, Tinder, the popular dating app, is taking significant steps to support and celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community in India. In collaboration with Gaysi Family, a queer-owned and queer-run media platform, Tinder has launched its first Queer Dating Starter Pack. This visual checklist is designed to assist young, first-time queer daters on Tinder by providing essential guidance on self-discovery, dating etiquette, consent, safety and boundaries, and self-care. This initiative builds upon the LetsTalkGender.in guide and glossary that Tinder introduced in 2022, offering a comprehensive resource that integrates the new checklist for quick, reliable support as users navigate their dating experiences.

    In addition to this valuable resource, Tinder has announced the return of Queer Made Weekend, a pride festival. This event was dedicated to celebrating, supporting, and amplifying businesses and products made, owned, and run by India’s LGBTQIA+ community. Tinder Queer Made Weekend took place on 8 June 2024 at Jio World Drive in Mumbai and from 15 to 16 June 2024 at DLF Promenade in Delhi.

    Indiantelevision caught up with Tinder India marketing director Anukool Kumar and shared insights on his journey from engineering to marketing, highlighting how his technical background had enhanced his creative problem-solving skills in marketing. He discussed how trends like the demand for authentic connections shaped Tinder’s strategies, exemplified by the “You Up” campaign. Emphasizing adaptability and user-centric approaches, Anukool underscored the importance of staying relevant to Gen Z’s evolving interests and values. His entrepreneurial experience informed his innovative marketing tactics at Tinder, focusing on user engagement, differentiation, and trust and safety. Anukool also elaborated on initiatives like Queer Made Weekend and the Queer Dating Starter Pack, reflecting Tinder’s commitment to inclusivity and support for the LGBTQIA+ community.

    Edited excerpt

    On your transition from engineering to marketing and inspiring this career shift

    I always felt destined to be a marketeer, but engineering happened by chance as I enjoyed logical thinking, analytical work, and IT at that time. However, being an engineer has actually made me a better marketeer. I’ve been able to leverage the analytical and problem-solving skills honed in engineering to tackle marketing challenges creatively. This creative problem-solving mindset, common in engineering, translates well into developing innovative marketing strategies. Additionally, engineering provided me with a deep understanding of product features and benefits, which aids in crafting compelling marketing messages. Overall, I always had a desire for more creative expression, an interest in understanding and influencing consumer behaviour, and the goal of having a broader impact on the company’s success by reaching wider audiences.

    On recent market trend that influencing Tinder’s marketing strategy

    A recent market trend influencing Tinder’s marketing strategy is the growing emphasis on authentic connections and meaningful interactions. In response, Tinder launched the “You Up” campaign as a part of the brand’s global message “It Starts with A Swipe” inspired by this new generation and how uniquely they look at themselves and their dating lives. The campaign celebrates the endless possibilities of moments and experiences on Tinder. It is a reflection of how dating has become more fluid and how young daters increasingly embrace their authentic selves on the Tinder app and IRL. For them ‘You Up?’ is about putting themselves out there and seeking the kind of connections they want, on their own terms. Young adults reclaim the idea of ‘you up?’ culturally associated with ‘provocative/suggestive’ dating behaviour and instead define it as a positive call to action for putting yourself out there and all the adventure it can the experiences, the adrenaline, the chemistry and the excitement. The film was released on 20 December 2022, across YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter.

    The campaign beautifully illustrates the endless possibilities that Tinder delivers and reflects Gen Z’s desire to express and connect on the issues that matter to them most, with 63 per cent of Tinder users wanting to connect with someone that aligns with their values. The film follows a female protagonist who’s not afraid to navigate through diverse experiences and puts herself out there for all the experiences that come her way, whether it be a fun karaoke night, a long drive, or just meeting someone over dinner. By being open to possibilities, she is able to explore her individuality with endless new adventures that await at every turn with Tinder.

    1 Tinder In app Survey among Tinder users aged 18-24 in UK, US, AU. Data was collected between 10/18/22 – 10/28/22.

    On integrating emerging market trends into Tinder’s marketing campaigns

    Tinder evolves as our core target audience evolves (from Millennials to Gen Z), and our goal is to always stay relevant and offer the best experience to them, following their habits, behaviours and evolving trends. Our campaigns revolve around our users, keeping their interests and insights at the heart of everything we do, whether it is interests such as food, music, travel or pop-culture trends. Last year, we also collaborated with DOT., the Gen-Z actor from Netflix’s The Archies film, to spotlight Incognito Mode, a feature which offers Tinder subscribers the ability to maintain full control over their visibility while engaging with the Tinder app in this film. Our recent campaigns, “It Starts With a Swipe,” and “You Up” were inspired by this new generation of daters and how uniquely they look at themselves and their dating lives. Our goal is to bring more spontaneity into people’s lives and to open up a whole new world of possibilities with others.

    For our ongoing Swipe Ride Series which completed its 3rd season last year, we collaborated with influencers and celebrities who are strong female icons such as Kusha Kapila, Swara Bhaskar, Rashmika Mandanna, Pooja Bhatt, Uorfi Javed, Zeenat Aman, Janhvi Kapoor and more to celebrate meaningful conversations about what Indian women truly want from their dating lives and normalise conversations around female desire, body positivity, self-care.

    On experience as an entrepreneur influencing your approach to marketing at companies like OkCupid and Tinder

    My experience as an entrepreneur has significantly influenced my approach to marketing as I’ve learnt to be adaptable, resourceful, and innovative, which are crucial traits in the dynamic field of marketing. This entrepreneurial mindset allows me to quickly identify market opportunities and pivot strategies to stay ahead of trends.

    Moreover, my entrepreneurial background instilled in me a results-oriented mindset, constantly measuring and analyzing the effectiveness of marketing initiatives to optimize performance and drive growth. This blend of creativity, user focus, and data analysis that shaped my entrepreneurial experiences has been key in crafting successful marketing strategies for these dating platforms.

    On ensuring that Tinder’s marketing strategies resonate with the diverse user base in India

    Tinder’s mission is to keep the magic of human connection alive. We’re focused on promoting realness, respect, and relevancy amongst our users. The power of marketing lies in the connection we make with our target audiences in Tinder’s case it’s Gen-Z and how they see themselves as part of the brand. More than half of all Tinder users across the globe are 18-25 years old and they are all about vibing, meeting up and being their authentic selves. GenZ are digital natives and our priority is to talk to them in their language and be where they are having these conversations. They’re also incredibly intentional in both who they choose to date and how they choose to date and are looking for casual activities and shared experiences to get to know each other and make their first dates count.

    On key challenges that you face as the head of marketing at Tinder and overcome them

    Some of the key challenges include maintaining user engagement, differentiating Tinder in a competitive market, and navigating Trust & Safety concerns. User engagement means how we are agile as a marketeer, and build on trends. Talking about differentiation, Tinder’s Queer Made Weekend is a great example. It is one of the most significant inclusive initiatives we’ve committed to for three consecutive years in partnership with the Gaysi Family. It began as a digital space for 100+ LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs and business owners in 2021 and expanded to an in-person event in Delhi in 2022, with further expansion to both Delhi and Mumbai in 2023 and again this year. Before Tinder’s Queer Made Weekend, cities in India had never seen such a vibrant collection of queer businesses.

    Additionally, addressing T&S concerns is paramount. In 2021, we launched LetsTalkConsent in partnership with Yuvva and Pink Legal as an ongoing conversation on consent education. Every year, we’ve reintroduced conversations on consent through various initiatives. These include offline workshops across 9 colleges and a 90-minute self-learning online course on Coursera. Through education and intervention, we believe that we can make Tinder the safest way to meet new people and ensure that dating is both fun and safe for everyone.

    On inspiring the launch of Queer Made in partnership with Little Black Book and Gaysi Family

    In 2021, Tinder launched Queer Made in partnership with Little Black Book and Gaysi Family, to provide a digital space for over 100+ LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs and business owners. It is a space dedicated to celebrating, supporting and amplifying businesses and products made, owned and/or run by India’s LGBTQIA+ community. The aim was to empower entrepreneurial voices, foster discovery, and inspire users in-app and online to deepen their allyship, a commitment that continues today. The initiative expanded IRL in 2022, where Tinder organised a two-day festival, Queer Made Weekend in Delhi, with over 30 LGBTQIA+ owned businesses from categories such as Fashion, Art, Merch, Home Decor etc., from across India and 10+ home-grown musicians among many more. Last year, Tinder expanded the festival to Delhi and Mumbai, with a footfall of 30k+.

    On collaboration influencing public perception of your brand, particularly within the LGBTQIA+ community

    Tinder welcomes everyone, and we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to make a meaningful connection with someone new, no matter who they are. We’ve been at the forefront of pioneering inclusive features and campaigns that ensure our users can be their authentic selves on our platform. With each passing year, Tinder’s Queer Made Weekend has grown significantly, attracting an overwhelming turnout and strong support from both the community and allies. The festival has showcased a diverse array of queer-owned businesses and creative expressions, with performances by home-grown artists adding vibrancy and energy to the events. Year after year, we are inspired by stories of resilience and creativity. As a strong ally, Tinder’s vision is to help users create meaningful connections and provide a space where they can be their authentic selves.

    On Queer Dating Starter Pack aiming to support first-time queer daters in navigating various dating scenarios

    The Queer Dating Starter Pack, curated by Gaysi Family with insights from The QKnit, addresses common concerns of first-time queer daters by focusing on themes like self-discovery, dating etiquette, consent, safety, boundaries, and self-care. It covers essential topics such as readiness to date, exploring one’s identity, understanding and setting boundaries, and practising consent and self-care, all based on real-life experiences of the queer community, resulting in a resource that is both authentic and practical for first-time queer daters.  Building on the LetsTalkGender.in guide and glossary launched by Tinder in 2022, the new checklist integrates with this resource, providing quick check-ins as they navigate their dating firsts on Tinder with confidence and clarity.