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Category: Brands

  • The Moms Co Mompreneurs Show welcomes new partnerships to support mom-entrepreneurs

    The Moms Co Mompreneurs Show welcomes new partnerships to support mom-entrepreneurs

    Mumbai: The Mompreneurs Show, one of India’s largest multi-stakeholder platforms dedicated to empowering and mentoring mom micro entrepreneurs from across India, launched by The Moms Co, India’s leading toxin-free & natural personal care D2C mother & baby brand, proudly announces additions to its esteemed partners coming together to support the dynamic community of Mompreneurs across India.

    Each partner brings their unique expertise and resources & will support through skill building & mentorship, digital growth & amplification & critically Investment & financial grants in the mompreneurs who are part of the initiative.

    Startup India, the Government’s nodal body to support Startups, is now amongst the Mompreneur programs mentorship & support partners. As part of the partnership, along with mentorship and entrepreneurship masterclasses, Startup India has committed to:

    Branding for the Top 10 Mompreneur Startups through social media posts, newsletters

    Co-authoring a write-up on the Landscape of MomPreneurs in India including survey insights, stories of our winners, what can the ecosystem do to support them, among other things

    Providing relevant guidance to startups with programs and incentives under the Startup India initiative, including registrations & DPIIT recognition to Top 80 and Startup India Seed Fund Scheme, and opportunities across areas of investor connect, pitching, delegations and showcases, among others to the Top 10

    Stride Ventures, a renowned venture debt fund, has also joined hands with the program and is committing to elevate the Mompreneurs program through a $10,000 cash prize in the form of a grant for the winner of the Mompreneurs Show. This cash prize is over and above the cash and media assets of Rs 1 crore, that the Good Glamm Group has committed for the winners.

    Bringing inspiring and captivating stories of mompreneurs to a broader audience, The Mompreneurs Show welcomes 94.3 Radio One and Fever Entertainment as official radio partners ensuring the journey’s and successes of our mompreneurs are resonated widely creating a robust narrative of mompreneurs across India. Through their popular programming, we anticipate mompreneurs stories & support becoming widespread across the country.

    WhatsApp joins as the digital growth and technology partner. This significant partnership with WhatsApp provides dedicated WhatsApp Business Apps or API Business Accounts tailored to cater to the distinctive requirements of each Mompreneurs enterprise. Beyond technology, WhatsApp will also conduct insightful mentorship sessions, business building on whatsapp masterclasses, and privacy workshops to elevate the digital prowess of Mompreneurs.  

    Additionally, FICCI FLO Mumbai, an existing partner, has expanded its partnership to the FICCI FLO National Startup Wing. This transition signifies FICCI FLO’s commitment to extending its collaboration beyond Mumbai & the Western Region and making their initiatives and support available to mom entrepreneurs and professionals across the entire nation. Startup India and FICCI FLO National Wing join existing partner Aspire for Her in the entrepreneurship bootcamps.

    Moreover, Archana Khosla Burman who is the chairperson FICCI FLO Mumbai and founder of Vertices Partners, one of India’s top law firms for entrepreneurs and investors, will have her law firm conduct a masterclass on legal compliances and choices when setting up and scaling ventures.

    In a vision for creating a strong and supportive community, it is now joined by its community partners, GurgaonMoms and D2C Insider. Originating from a simple WhatsApp group, D2C Insider has grown to become India’s largest community for DTC brands with over 5,000 brand founders, 500+ enabler founders, and 500+ investors. Both partners play a pivotal role in amplifying the mompreneurs program & their businesses amongst its members.

    In addition to mentorship and business coaching through the institutional partnerships of Startup India, Whatsapp, FICCI FLO & Aspire For Her, it has announced the contribution of distinguished business leaders and investors to masterclasses. Masterclasses are a unique concept by which industry leaders and organizations will contribute through their time with exclusive learning sessions for shortlisted mompreneurs. Hindustan Times CEO and MD Praveen Someshwar will conduct a much-anticipated masterclass for our shortlisted mompreneurs on brand building.

    We have also started receiving commitments on equity grants from jury and advisory board members. Dr Aarti Gupta, our advisory & jury representative of DBR Ventures has committed to invest $10,000 in equity capital in one of the top 10 winners on behalf of DBR group. Similarly, Ankita Vashishta of Strong Her Ventures has committed to equity capital from a minimum of $10k to a maximum of $25k usd in shortlisted ventures.

    Speaking on the partnership, Good Glamm Group group co-founder, and The Good Community CEO Naiyya Saggi says, “There are more than 15 mn women led businesses in India. The Hon’ble Prime Minister has himself emphasized that women driving development is a Nation Building Imperative. We have known for a long time that Mothers have different journeys as a cohort to financial autonomy and entrepreneurship. Which is why we believe the Mompreneurs program to be a critical initiative, especially since its the first of its kind where so many stakeholders have come together to support Mom Entrepreneurs in specific. We are very grateful to our partners, Start Up India, Stride Ventures, WhatsApp, Ficci Flo National Wing, Aspire For Her, 94.3 Radio One, Fever FM, Gurgaon Moms, DTC Insider, Our distinguished Masterclass Leaders, Advisory Board & Investors for their unflinching commitment. This unprecedented and groundbreaking alliance brings incredible partners coming together to carve a path for mompreneurs nationally to flourish and grow.”

    Speaking on the association, Ministry of Commerce and Industry joint secretary – department for promotion of industry and internal trade (DPIIT) Manmeet Nanda said, “With Startup India joining hands with the Moms Co Mompreneurs show as a dedicated mentorship and support partner, this partnership enables us to extend our commitment to fostering entrepreneurship. Holding profound significance as we delve into fostering a thriving entrepreneurial spirit among the talented Mompreneurs of our nation, shedding light on the landscape of Mompreneurs across India. Our commitment encompasses fast-tracked support for registration and recognition, personalized guidance for top startups, strategic branding, and co-authoring an insightful narrative for every Mompreneur’s journey.”

    “We at Stride Ventures take great pride in partnering with The Mompreneurs Show to support The Moms Co and the Good Glamm Group team’s mission of empowering and uplifting mompreneurs across India. This initiative provides a vital platform to propel enterprising mothers and champion their unique approaches to build successful businesses,” said Stride Ventures chief of public policy & strategy Ravneet Mann.

    Beyond robust partnerships, the winners will also be presented with an unparalleled opportunity for mentorship and co-investments from esteemed entrepreneurs, jury members, advisory board experts and mom-leaders. The winners will have a unique chance to tap into a network of established professionals, entrepreneurs and industry veterans contributing to the growth and sustainability of the winner’s entrepreneurial ventures.  

  • Kurkure expands its portfolio with a sizzlin’ hot launch for spice lovers

    Kurkure expands its portfolio with a sizzlin’ hot launch for spice lovers

    Mumbai: PepsiCo India has expanded the flavour spectrum of its iconic snack brand Kurkure with the launch of Kurkure Sizzlin’ Hot. The new flavour is inspired by the globally loved Flamin’ Hot platform and offers a differentiated and irresistible flavor experience by fusing ‘chilli ka tadka’ with Kurkure’s iconic crunch.

    Kurkure Sizzlin’ Hot is loaded with a punch of roasted red chilli, with every bite leaving a lingering heat sensation with the perfect chatpata crunch of Kurkure. This flavour innovation is sure to jolt all senses and transform the mood for an ultimate rollercoaster of fun.  The inception of Kurkure Sizzlin’ Hot finds its roots in the success of the Sizzlin’ Hot range in India with Lay’s and Doritos.

    This exciting new addition to the Kurkure lineup stems from a keen understanding of the growing consumer preference for spicy salty snacks in the country, with ‘chilli’ emerging as one of the top flavor preferences in the category. Embracing this growing affinity for spicy palette amongst its Indian consumers, Kurkure Sizzlin’ Hot promises an unforgettable taste adventure with lasting sensational heat.

     

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Kurkure (@kurkuresnacks)

     

    On the debut of Kurkure Sizzlin’ Hot, PepsiCo India category lead – Kurkure Aastha Bhasin said, “The launch of Kurkure Sizzlin’ Hot is a testament to our commitment to constantly innovate and provide Indian consumers with the most flavourful snacking experiences. As a brand that celebrates the use of spices, our latest offering is an ode to the extreme teekha lovers of India. The all-new Kurkure Sizzlin’ Hot really packs in a punch and offers everything the Indian consumer craves for. Get ready for an ultimate ‘teekha’ experience that brings a sensational hit of chilli with Kurkure’s chatpata crunch!”

    Kurkure Sizzlin’ Hot is now available at Rs 10 and Rs 20 across all leading retail and e-commerce platforms in India, with Rs 5 packs available in select regions. The launch will be followed by a TVC and a robust 360-degree surround campaign.

  • Rishabh Pant says “Aa raha hoon” with Optimum Nutrition

    Rishabh Pant says “Aa raha hoon” with Optimum Nutrition

    Mumbai: Optimum Nutrition, a global leader in sports nutrition, is thrilled to announce its unwavering support for Indian cricket sensation Rishabh Pant through its new campaign, ‘aa raha hoon”. The campaign celebrates Pant’s extraordinary dedication and resilience, as he aims to make a stronger comeback to the sport, following the injuries that kept him on the sidelines over the past year.

    But you can’t keep Pant away from the action for long. Known to be resilient and dedicated to excellence in cricket, he has channelled this very focus into his recovery, fuelled by Optimum Nutrition.

    This campaign sheds light on the athlete’s remarkable journey, highlighting his commitment to mental toughness, and physical recovery. Pant’s dedication and determination in the face of adversity resonate deeply with Optimum Nutrition’s core value of  Zyada Kar Dikhane ki Taaqat, by helping athletes achieve the MORE in them, irrespective of the challenges they face.

    Through an extended partnership, Optimum Nutrition will continue to provide Pant, with its cutting-edge products, including whey protein, creatine, amino acids, and pre-workout formulas, which are designed to optimise performance, provide strength, enhance muscle growth, and speed up recovery.

    Glanbia Performance Nutrition India Pvt. Ltd. managing director Satyavrat Pendharkar said “We stand by our athletes in good times and difficult times. We partnered with Rishabh Pant in 2021, not only because he is an exceptional cricketer but because he is also a role model for millions of young Indians. We are proud that Optimum Nutrition could play a small part in enhancing his performance and assisting him in reaching his maximum potential on the field. Our commitment to standing by Rishabh throughout his journey is unwavering, and we eagerly anticipate his return to the field to showcase his exceptional abilities.”

    Rishabh Pant said, “’I look forward to continuing my partnership with Optimum Nutrition. Just as nutrition plays a vital role in my cricketing journey, I believe in the importance of fuelling our bodies with the best. With Optimum Nutrition by my side, I’m confident in taking my performance to the next level and achieving new milestones on the field.”

    Optimum Nutrition reaffirms its commitment to helping athletes and fitness enthusiasts achieve their fitness goals with the help of science-based nutrition and training. The brand is dedicated to supporting Rishabh Pant and other top athletes in India in their quest to achieve the MORE in them.

  • WAI WAI India partners with Ayushmann Khurrana as brand ambassador

    WAI WAI India partners with Ayushmann Khurrana as brand ambassador

    Mumbai: CG Corp Global’s FMCG vertical CG Foods, the owner of the renowned noodle brand WAI WAI, proudly announces its partnership with Bollywood superstar Ayushmann Khurrana as its new brand ambassador. With a legacy of 25 years and a dedicated following among the youth, WAI WAI is set to further solidify its position by joining forces with Ayushmann Khurrana, whose genuine and versatile persona deeply resonates with the youth.

    Under the theme and tagline “WAI WAI Wala Taste”, this collaboration aims to celebrate the distinctive flavor, taste, and seasoning that has endeared WAI WAI to its enthusiasts.

    Commenting on the collaboration, actor Ayushmann Khurrana shared, “It’s an absolute pleasure to be associated with a youth-facing brand like Wai Wai. What sets it apart is the vibrant and diverse range of products it offers. From an array of exotic noodles catering to every taste, region, and preference, the brand lives up to its name.”

    CG Foods & CG Corp Global India Varun Chaudhary stated, “Collaborating with Ayushmann Khurrana was my top priority, and I am delighted that we have joined forces in such a short time. This partnership comes at a critical moment when my vision for the brand includes not only exponential growth in sales but also the establishment of deep connections with WAI WAI fans across the country. India is an important market for us , and I am dedicated to ensuring that WAI WAI attains a leadership position with its roots deeply entrenched in India.”

    WAI WAI has strategically decided to foster a stronger connection with the emerging generation, encompassing young adults, teenagers, and working professionals. As the sole standalone brand producing pre-seasoned noodles, colloquially referred to as ‘Brown Noodles,’ WAI WAI is set to introduce an exciting transformation to the market.

    The brand is gearing up to delight its dedicated aficionados of Korean spicy cuisine with a thrilling and exotic assortment of 2X spicy noodles, presented through its sub-brand ‘Dynamite.’ With the recent signing of Ayushmann Khurrana, the brand is now poised to embark on a dynamic 360 campaign that holds the potential to resonate deeply with the contemporary youth.

    The triumph of this campaign and partnership pivots on the significant stride taken in the right direction. This ambitious goal underscores the brand’s unwavering commitment to growth and innovation, bolstered by its collaboration with Ayushmann Khurrana, as it continues to carve its path as a leading player in the market.

  • KRAFTON India announces Ranveer Singh as BGMI’s brand ambassador

    KRAFTON India announces Ranveer Singh as BGMI’s brand ambassador

    Mumbai: In a landmark move, KRAFTON India is thrilled to announce an exciting collaboration that is set to redefine the gaming landscape in India. Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh, has been named the official Brand Ambassador for BATTLEGROUNDS MOBILE INDIA (BGMI). This strategic partnership aims to bring together the thrill of gaming and the charisma of Superstar Ranveer Singh to engage and deliver elevated experiences for millions of gamers across the country.

    The collaboration between BGMI and Singh is a monumental stride towards celebrating gaming as a medium for immersive entertainment and community engagement. BGMI, India’s most loved battle royale title, has found its perfect partner in Singh, who resonates with the energy and passion that gamers bring to the battlegrounds. This first-of-its-kind alliance marks a remarkable synergy of two forces that thrive on pushing boundaries, poised to bring gaming and BGMI to the masses in an unprecedented manner.

    With this collaboration, KRAFTON will launch the Play Pure campaign that celebrates the pure-ness in players through the lens of superstar Ranveer Singh. As a part of the campaign, BGMI players will be urged to be bold and celebrate their authenticity in the Battlegrounds!

    KRAFTON India CEO Sean Hyunil Sohn expressed his enthusiasm about this landmark partnership, stating, “We are elated to welcome Superstar Ranveer Singh to the BGMI family. His magnetic persona and unrelenting spirit align seamlessly with the essence of BGMI. KRAFTON has always been committed to providing immersive and captivating experiences for our users. This collaboration opens up a new avenue to bring exciting and engaging content that will resonate with gaming enthusiasts across the nation. Stay tuned as we embark on a new era of gaming entertainment.”

    Singh, equally excited about this new venture, shared his thoughts, “As an artist, I find gaming to be an extension of my creative expression. The dedication, the competitiveness, the camaraderie and the team spirit in the gaming world resonate with me deeply. BGMI has evolved into a cultural phenomenon by creating a platform that brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds, transcending borders through their shared passion for gaming. I am thrilled to be part of this journey and look forward to exciting interactions with the Indian gaming community.”

  • TAM AdEx Report: HUL was the top FMCG advertiser in terms of ad volumes in H1’23

    TAM AdEx Report: HUL was the top FMCG advertiser in terms of ad volumes in H1’23

    Mumbai: The recently released TAM AdEx Report throws light on the advertising taken up by the FMCG sector for the period Jan-Jun’23, in the four mediums – television, print, radio and digital.

    Television

    In Jan-Jun’23, FMCG ad volumes on television witnessed a growth of 6 per cent over Jan-Jun’22.

    As per the monthly ad volume trend of FMCG sector on TV for the period Jan-Jun’23, May’23 had the highest share of ad volumes i.e. 17.5 per cent followed by Apr’23 with 17.1 per cent. On the opposite, Feb’23 observed the lowest share of ad volumes of 15.6 per cent.

    Amongst the top categories on TV, four out of the top 10 categories were of food & beverages. Toilet soaps (nine per cent) moved to the first rank in H1’23 over 2nd rank in H1’22. The top 10 categories together added 45 per cent share of ad volumes during Jan-Jun’23.

    In terms of the top advertisers, Hindustan Unilever was first with 23 per cent share of ad volumes among the FMCG advertisers. The top 10 advertisers accounted for 68 per cent share of ad volumes in Jan-Jun’23.

    Among the top 10 FMCG brands, six belonged to Reckitt Benckiser (India). Harpic Power Plus 10x Max Clean retained its first position in Jan-Jun’23 compared to Jan-Jun’22. Close Up Ever Fresh, Colgate Dental Cream, Colin & Santoor Sandal and Turmeric were the new entrants in the top 10 list in H1’23 compared to H1’22. The top 10 brands accounted for 15 per cent share of ad volumes in Jan-Jun’23.

    As per the report, the GEC genre was most preferred by FMGC players on TV in H1’23. The top two channel genres i.e. GEC and movies together accounted 62 per cent of the ad volumes’ share for FMCG sector during H1’23.

    When it comes to the time band analysis for FMCG advertising on TV, prime time garnered highest advertising on TV followed by afternoon and morning time-bands. Prime time, afternoon and morning time bands together accounted for 72 per cent share of ad volumes.

    Print

    When it comes to ad space for the FMCG sector in print, Jan-Jun’23 witnessed a decline of 25 per cent in FMCG ad space compared to Jan-Jun’22.

    As per the monthly ad space trend of FMCG sector in print, Jun’23 observed the highest share of FMCG ad space i.e. 18.9 per cent, followed by Mar’23 with 18.8% share in H1’23. Whereas, Feb’23 had the lowest share of ad space of 13.2 per cent in H1’23.

    Amongst the top 10 categories of FMCG for print, digestives moved up by three positions to achieve the first rank in H1’23 over H1’22. The top 10 categories together added 44 per cent share of FMCG ad space in print during Jan-Jun’23.

    From the top 10 advertisers, SBS Biotech retained its first position in H1’23 compared to H1’22. Sheth Brothers, Godrej Consumer Products, Rohit Surfactants and K P Pan Foods were the new entrants in the top 10 list of advertisers in H1’23 over H1’22. The top 10 advertisers together added 37 per cent share of ad space during H1’23.

    The report brings out that amongst the top 10 brands from FMCG sector in print, Dr Ortho Oil retained its 1st position in H1’23 compared to H1’22. The top 10 brands together added 14 per cent share of ad space in print during Jan-Jun’23. Among the top 10, Kayam Churna Advance Granules & Torque Orthomac Gel were exclusive to H1’23 brands’ list. Brands on rank four (Roop Mantra Ayur Face Cream), six (Ghadi Maha Shaktishali Detergent Powder) and 10 (Dilbagh Signature Finest Silver Elaichi) were the new entrants in the top 10 list during H1’23 compared to H1’22.

    As per zone-wise advertising share of FMCG sector in print, the North Zone was the leading territory in terms of advertising for FMCG sector with a 39 per cent share of ad space during H1’23. Mumbai & New Delhi were the top two cities in pan India during H1’23.

    The report points out that when it comes to advertising promotions of FMCG sector in print, sales promotion for ‘FMCG’ sector accounted for 21 per cent share of ad space in the print medium. Among sales promotions, volume promotion occupied a 36 per cent share of the pie followed by discount promotion with a 24 per cent share in H1’23.

    Radio

    The ad volumes for FMCG Sector on radio increased by seven per cent during H1’23 over H1’22.

    As per the monthly ad volume trend of FMCG sector on radio, May’23 observed the highest share of FMCG ad volumes on radio i.e. 20 per cent followed by Mar’23 with a 19 per cent share. Whereas, Jan’23 & Feb’23 had the lowest share of ad volumes of 14 per cent in H1’23.

    Amongst the top 10 categories of FMCG for radio, pan masala (18 per cent) ascended to the first position during H1’23 compared to 4th in H1’22. Range of OTC Products, and Ice Cream/Frozen Desserts were the new entrants in the top 10 list of categories during H1’23 over to H1’22. The top 10 categories collectively added 65 per cent share of ad volumes in H1’23.

    In the list of top 10 advertisers, Vishnu Packaging moved to the first position with a 12 per cent share of FMCG ad volumes in H1’23 compared to seventh in H1’22. The top 10 advertisers together added a 45 per cent share of FMCG ad volumes in H1’23.

    Talking about the top 10 brands of FMCG sector on radio, Vimal Pan Masala ascended to the first position with 12 per cent share of ad volumes in H1’23 over H1’22 where it was on the seventh position. Himalaya Ashvagandha, Pfizer & Himalaya Gasex Fizz were exclusive brands present in H1’23 compared to H1’22. The top 10 brands together accounted for 34 per cent share of FMCG ad volumes in Jan-Jun’23.

    As per the state-wise share of FMCG advertising on radio, the top three states occupied 56 per cent share of ad volumes for the FMCG sector. Gujarat retained its first position and Uttar Pradesh moved up by one position to achieve the second rank during H1’23 over H1’22.

    The report discusses about the time band analysis for FMCG advertising on radio – advertising for FMCG was preferred in the evening followed by the morning time band on radio. 68 per cent share of the FMCG ad volumes were in the evening and morning time bands during H1’23.

    Digital

    The ad Impressions of the FMCG sector in the digital medium witnessed a drop of 28 per cent in H1’23 over H1’22.

    As per the monthly ad impression trend of FMCG sector on digital in H1’23, Apr’23 and Jun’23 both had the highest monthly ad impressions of 20 per cent, whereas Feb’23 had the lowest share of ad impressions i.e. 12 per cent.

    From the top 10 categories of FMCG for digital, aerated soft drink (nine per cent) was first in H1’23 compared to its 10th position in H1’22. The top 10 categories together accounted for 45 per cent share of ad impressions in H1’23.

    Amongst the top 10 advertisers on the digital medium, Coca Cola topped among FMCG advertisers with a seven per cent share of ad impressions in H1’23 compared to seventh position in H1’22. The top 10 advertisers together added 44 per cent share of ad impressions in H1’23. Hell-Energy was an exclusive advertiser among the top 10 during H1’23.

    In the list of the top 10 brands of FMCG sector on digital, Hear.Com retained its first position with a three per cent share of ad impressions in H1’23 over H1’22. The top 10 brands together added 21 per cent of ad impressions’ share during Jan-Jun’23. Hell Energy Drinks & Hell Energy Coffee were exclusive brands present among the top 10 during H1’23 over H1’22.

    The reports mentions that amongst the transaction methods of digital advertising in the FMCG sector, programmatic (81 per cent) was the top transaction method for digital FMCG advertising based on impressions during H1’23. Programmatic and ad network transaction methods together captured 91 per cent share of FMCG ad impressions on digital.

  • Shoppers Stop celebrates the lifelong impact of teachers with a creative tribute

    Shoppers Stop celebrates the lifelong impact of teachers with a creative tribute

    Mumbai: Shoppers Stop, a leading retail destination known for its innovative and customer-centric approach, is proud to announce its latest creative tribute to the educators who have shaped our lives since childhood. In a heartfelt gesture, Shoppers Stop pays homage to the enduring influence of teachers with a unique and meaningful campaign.

    The heart of this campaign lies in the clever integration of the Shoppers Stop brand logo, which seamlessly incorporates a pencil, symbolizing the profound impact of education in our lives. This creative fusion of the brand identity with a timeless emblem of learning beautifully underscores the importance of education.

    The key message of the campaign is clear: “We will always need a teacher in our lives.” Shoppers Stop recognizes that teachers are not only instrumental in imparting knowledge but also in molding character, instilling values, and fostering personal growth. They are the guiding lights who continue to influence our lives long after we leave the classroom.

     

     

    This tribute by Shoppers Stop is a testament to the unwavering gratitude for the tireless dedication and commitment of teachers, who continue to inspire and nurture generations of learners. It highlights the enduring influence of education and the remarkable individuals who dedicate their lives to imparting knowledge and wisdom.

  • Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles joins Mahindra I-Rock 2023 as official ride partner

    Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles joins Mahindra I-Rock 2023 as official ride partner

    Mumbai: Last year’s historic return after a nine-year hiatus set the stage for a legendary rock comeback. India’s oldest, largest and loudest rock festival, Independence Rock, was reborn as Mahindra Independence Rock (I-Rock) in 2022 and is now once again making its way to the city in November. This year too, Mumbai’s Bayview Lawns will witness a thunderous reunion of headbanging and moshing rock scenesters in a loud celebration of the genre on the 4 and 5 November, 2023.

    Overlooking the breathtaking Arabian Sea, the Mahindra I-Rock stage is all set to transform into a kaleidoscope of rock subgenres coming together for two days of rock shindig. This year, the festival is transcending geographical boundaries by stretching its soundscape across the length and breadth of the country. From the north and the northeast to the west and the south, as well as crossing borders to Nepal, Mahindra I-Rock seeks to bring and unite diverse sounds of rock to its iconic stage.

    This will see the festival become a confluence of genres and languages and a collision of energies – from pummeling death metal and old-school thrash influences, genre-bending fusion of rock and reggae and authentic 80s style glam metal to the nuanced blend of Indian classical and folk sounds of the mridangam and flute with guitar riffs and pulsating drums – Mahindra I-Rock will dig deeper into Indian Rock music subcultures to underscore rock music’s spirit of diversity and inclusivity through its unique sonic landscape.

    Reflecting on 2022’s Journey

    In 2022, Farhad Wadia, Hyperlink Brand Solutions, and the Mahindra Group, along with Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles as the Riding partner got together to reignite the rock movement by reviving the festival and creating an ecosystem of rockers all over India. The 2022 edition of Mahindra I-Rock saw 7000 rock-and-rollers flock to the venue, proving that the country’s rock spirit was intact through the years and reinstating the festival as the largest and most iconic rock festival in India. Pure energy and raw emotions punctuated Mahindra I-Rock as the festival reclaimed its 28-year-old legacy as the bedrock of a thriving rock scene, with some of the most celebrated rock artists, such as Parikrama, Thaikkudam Bridge, Avial, Indus Creed and Pentagram taking to stage – a testament to the enduring love for this iconic festival.

    Continuing the Legacy – Mahindra I-Rock 2023

    Coming from this legacy, Mahindra I-Rock, in its 29th edition, will continue to live upto it’s reputation as a national phenomenon by amplifying its reach and pushing the Indian rock community to take the genre to the next level. Moreover, by providing fans across the country a never-seen-before experience of the highest standard, the festival seeks to become a rock destination in this part of the world.

    It will stay rooted in its three-decade-old tradition and nurture the growth of new and aspiring artists in the genre with “Tomorrow’s Headliners,” and provide them an opportunity to perform on the biggest rock stage, aka the Mahindra I-Rock stage.

    Independence Rock founder Farhad Wadia said, “Since the 80s, the festival has provided a platform to launch careers of several huge names in the rock fraternity, and it has sparked an everlasting spirit among rockers across India. This stage is where it all began! Mahindra I-Rock is not just a festival; it has become a meaningful movement. And movements never die – they are recorded in history. They not only continue to inspire future generations but are also reborn over and over. Mahindra I-Rock is one such movement that I hope continues to inspire the new gen to express themselves uninhibitedly through rock and live on.”

    Mahindra Group vice president – cultural outreach Jay Shah said, “We look forward to beginning the Mahindra Season of Festivals 2023-24 with Mahindra Independence Rock. It has been a pleasure to be able to revive this iconic festival, and we were heartened by the love shown by Mumbai last year. The Indian rock scene is waiting to be tapped, and this festival aims to present India’s incredible talent while simultaneously nurturing an appreciation for this genre in our youth.”

    Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles CEO Ashish Singh Joshi was quoted as saying, “We’re thrilled to once again partner with Mahindra Independence Rock. Just as our motorcycles provide riders with the exhilarating experience of the open road, rock music evokes a sense of liberation and self-expression. What makes this association even sweeter is that this legendary music festival has had a resurgence story just like us at Jawa Yezdi Motorcycles. As enthusiasts of both rock and the open road, we can’t wait to be a part of this thunderous reunion of rock fans and Jawa Yezdi riders!”

    Hyperlink Brand Solutions founder VG Jairam mentioned, “Multidimensional storytelling, creating cultural movements and being the bridge between consumers and culture is at the core of Hyperlink. And we are expanding on this by once again partnering with Farhad Wadia and the Mahindra Group to bring back Mahindra I-Rock, which is not just a rock festival but a cultural lifestyle movement in itself. After a successful sold-out show last year, I am looking forward to the newest edition which promises to be grander in all aspects and give both artists and the attendees an experience, unlike any other editions of Mahindra I-Rock.”

    Mahindra I-Rock’s journey: From rebellion to revival.

    Mahindra Independence Rock’s origin story embodies the very ethos of rock music culture – democratisation, freedom of expression, equality, inclusivity, and challenging the status quo. Three decades ago, in 1986, Farhad Wadia and his band’s gig at St. Xavier’s intercollege fest Malhar was cancelled. The principal didn’t approve of their music. However, this did not deter Farhad, who, with other students and bands, organised what eventually became the first edition of I-Rock at Rang Bhavan. In the 80s and 90s, I-Rock was the rite of passage for countless Gen X rockers in the country, giving birth to a roaring Indian rock scene and growing from a rock fest to pioneering a cultural movement in the Indian indie and rock music scene up until the close of its legacy venue in 2013.

    Mahindra Independence Rock 2023 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of rock music, with a focus on diversity and new-age talent. The festival has consistently been a platform for rock enthusiasts to come together and revel in the magic of live music, and this year will be no exception.

    Mark your calendars for 4 and 5 November 2023, and join us at Mumbai’s Bayview Lawns for a weekend of rock music like no other. Registrations for the festival are open now  – log on to the website and Instagram for more updates on the lineup and early bird tickets!

  • Kofluence launches Kofinity

    Kofluence launches Kofinity

    Mumbai: Kofluence, the largest AI-led influence platform, has launched its latest product Kofinity which offers guaranteed brand partnerships to every content creator, and an opportunity to monetise their social influence. Having successfully delivered over 1600+ campaigns across 30 diverse sectors with over 550K contributors on board and a collective reach of 6Bn+, Kofluence is at the forefront of influencer marketing solutions.

    With the launch of Kofinity, creators can focus solely on creating content and boosting brand visibility, while Kofluence provides them the infrastructure to turn their passion into earnings.  Creators can acquire a free unique URL through ‘kofluence.com/in’, which will serve as a hub for their curated brand deals. With ‘always-on’ campaigns, creators can partner with brands they love, in a hassle-free manner. Each transaction made through their personalized link directly translates to payouts.

    With Kofinity, top performers can earn more than Rs 25,000 per week along with guaranteed shortlisting for collaborations that require minimal content creation and no prior content approval. Typically access to premium offers often come with eligibility criteria or cost considerations, but Kofinity allows content creators to share these offers with their audience so they can avail them easily and freely without having to meet any such criteria.

    Speaking about the launch, Kofluence CEO and co-founder Ritesh Ujjwal said, “We’re thrilled to introduce Kofinity! With this launch, we’re confident that Kofluence is well-positioned to lead the charge in this rapidly evolving industry. We aim to foster India’s thriving creators economy by monetizing 100k influencers in the next 12 months, enabling creators on their journey to becoming creator-preneurs.”

    Commenting on the launch, Kofluence co-founder Sreeram Reddy Vanga stated, “As excited as we are about the launch, what I’m looking forward to is Kofinity being a means of self-sufficiency for all the budding creators. Kofinity is expanding its horizons beyond social media like Instagram and Youtube. Now, creators can easily share their offers and deals within their social circles through multiple social networking platforms by using their unique link.”

  • LAVIE CARES: Empowering women through education, one step at a time

    LAVIE CARES: Empowering women through education, one step at a time

    Mumbai: Committed to the progress of women’s empowerment and education, Lavie stands as a pioneering brand celebrated for its enduring elegance, etching a legacy of innovation since its inception in 2010. Founded by the visionary Shobha Tainwala, Lavie’s journey is a testament to the belief that business can be a powerful force for good. At the heart of this transformative journey lies ‘LAVIE CARES’, an initiative that exemplifies the brand’s deep-seated dedication to create a better world for women through enhanced education.

    LAVIE CARES is a resolute commitment to uplift women and enable them to fulfill their dreams. Grounded in the principle that every business can be a force for good, LAVIE CARES focuses on harnessing the power of education to foster empowerment. Over the course of the last three transformative years, this initiative has successfully educated and uplifted 2000 deserving women, while also making a substantial investment of more than 15 Million.

    LAVIE CARES operates on a five-step framework that ensures maximum impact and sustainable change in the lives of women:

    1.       Make a Match: The dedicated LAVIE CARES team works tirelessly to identify and collaborate with partners that can effectively provide education facilities for women.

    2.       Design the Program: In collaboration with the chosen partners, Lavie designs programs that create a measurable and lifelong impact not only in the lives of women but also in the entire community.

    3.       Pick Up the Tab: Lavie believes that giving should be free from hidden costs. Therefore, the initiative generously covers the expenses required to implement and improve these transformative programs.

    4.       Review & Improve: Lavie is committed to continuous improvement. Regular reviews of the programs ensures their effectiveness and efficiency in making a difference in the lives of women.

    5.       Repeat: The spirit of responsibility and sustainability drives Lavie to continually work with its partners, offering new solutions and supporting the necessary implementations.

    Lavie director & chief giving officer Shobha Tainwala commented, “LAVIE Cares is a reflection of our deep-rooted belief in the power of women to reshape the world. By providing them with the correct tools to succeed, we are nurturing a brighter tomorrow for women and society as a whole. We have always believed that women have an immense capacity to shape their destinies, families, and communities and through LAVIE Cares, we are dedicated to nurturing this potential by empowering women to overcome barriers and realize their dreams.”

    LAVIE CARES’ remarkable growth and impact serves as a powerful testament to Lavie’s commitment to fostering positive change. With LAVIE CARES, the brand continues to set an inspiring example for the business community, underscoring the potential for businesses to drive transformation and empowerment.