ITV

Category: Marketing

  • How to start a franchise: Step-by-step guide

    How to start a franchise: Step-by-step guide

    Mumbai: Unlike starting an entirely new business, when one buys a franchise, it already has a business model and brand image that may be used to its advantage. This prevents one from investing time and risk into building the venture right from scratch, thus giving the new business owners a very good possibility of success.

    Franchise businesses can come with a hefty upfront investment or a negligible one. The investment varies across sectors and brands, besides the locations. Major costs include franchise fees, royalties, initial investments, and marketing fees. The franchise fee can vary anywhere between 1 Lakh to 30 Lakh, or even more which is paid for the brand usage and the business model of the franchisor. Then, one must consider the cost for leasing, renovation, equipment, supplies, and setting up technology. Royalties comprise typically four per cent to 15 per cent of monthly earnings. Lastly, there is a certain percentage of marketing fees that one must pay.

    Legal compliances:

    Making a franchise agreement under the Indian Contract Act, 1872, which describes rights and responsibilities. Registration of the franchisor’s trademark has to be given under the Trade Marks Act of 1999. Lastly, the franchise shall be registered as a private limited company, corporation, or sole proprietorship under the Companies Act, 2013. All these legal steps make the franchise operate under the ambit of Indian business laws.

    Getting started

    Step 1: Pick an industry

    Starting a business means an intensive commitment of resources — thus, one better make sure they are going into an industry they can work on day in and day out. Remember, at this stage, it should be passion over profit, for the more one is driven and engulfed with a venture, the likelier it will be to succeed.

    Step 2: Research competition

    Looking at franchise opportunities within the target locality could be helpful to gauge the amount of effort you will need and it can also be an indication of the success of the franchise. If there is competition ask whether the businesses are profitable and if there isn’t any, seek to know why is that.

    Step 3: Cost Consideration

    Becoming a franchisee might require a large financial commitment. Ensuring that one has the upfront funds as well as operational costs. Also, consider whether the business is profitable after royalties.

    Step 4: Develop a Business Plan

    An ideal next step after the opportunity has been identified is the creation of a business plan. Although this is supplied by many corporations upon acceptance, having an own to edit while working out a unique strategy and showing the franchisor how capable a partner is. A business plan should include market analysis, management plan, and customer service.

    Step 5: Creation of Business Entity

    Next up, establish a business entity. This means a business entity will shield a business owner from personal risk except, of course, for a sole proprietorship-so it’s smart to have an LLC or corporation set up. Most franchisors will have requirements regarding business entities, so it’s important to check with the company.

    Step 6: Meet franchise licence requirements

    This is the time when one needs to apply and go through the process of franchise licensing. This can be likened to a job application; Interviews are taken to ascertain whether one is qualified and capable. Once this exercise has been completed, a franchise licence agreement is signed.

    Step 7: Find a location

    The next step is to find a suitable location. Franchise rules set by the franchisor will likely dictate where a business can be located, and often Franchisors provide help to find a retail space. While this is happening, look for areas that have a good mix of foot traffic to affordable rent.

    Step 8: Equipment ordering and human resource hiring

    Now, it’s the time to order essential equipment and start interviewing employee candidates. Most of these are financial burdens that must be carried by the franchisees, although the parent company can provide assistance in the form of preferred vendors for equipment and templates for hiring. Automation processes like communication automation can save resources.

    When all the above is done, one can open the doors. The parent company may also have contracted an advertisement campaign to announce its new location in town. The rest from here is left is for one to make decisions on how to manage and maintain a profitable business.

    This article has been written by FranchiseBatao CEO and founder of Ashish Agrawal

  • Converse x PLAY Comme des Garçons celebrate 15 years with single hearts design return

    Converse x PLAY Comme des Garçons celebrate 15 years with single hearts design return

    Mumbai: In 2009, Converse and Comme des Garçons commenced a partnership that brought CDG’s ‘Hearts and Eyes’ logo onto the Chuck Taylor All-Star for the first time. Across the ensuing 15 years, this iconic collaboration has both helped inform the modern approach to footwear collaborations and produced more than 20 iterations that have been celebrated and sought after across cultures. In celebration of the partnership’s 15th anniversary, the brands have joined forces to reissue the design that started it all—the Converse x PLAY Comme des Garçons OG Single Hearts pack.

    While the collaboration’s debut design appeared on the Chuck Taylor All-Star, Converse and CDG are bringing the OG Single Hearts onto the pinnacle Chuck 70 and Chuck 70 Ox for the first time.

    The Converse x PLAY Comme des Garçons OG Single Hearts pack keeps the logo details untouched from 2009’s OG offering. Since then, the PLAY line’s signature logo has appeared across several Converse silhouettes—the heart-and-eyes logo: a signifier of the collaboration’s minimalist yet optimistic and unassuming style. The logo has been seen peeking out amongst polka dots and multiplied and magnified across the canvases of Converse’s most beloved styles.

    The styles within the OG Single Hearts pack will include the Converse x Comme des Garçons OG Single Hearts Chuck 70, priced at INR 12499, and the Converse x Comme des Garçons OG Single Hearts Chuck 70 Ox, available at  INR 11,999  in sizes UK 5 to UK 15. CDG’s ‘Hearts and Eyes’ appears along the lateral side of the Chuck 70s, which arrive in classic Milk and Black colourways with white foxing and toecaps. The limited-edition Chucks are crafted in premium canvas for an elevated feel, and feature cobranded sock-liners, OrthoLite cushioning for all-day comfort, and a vintage license plate.

    The Converse x PLAY Comme des Garçons OG Single Hearts pack commercializes on  27 September on Converse.in 

  • Foot Locker to make its India debut

    Foot Locker to make its India debut

    Mumbai: Foot Locker, a prominent name in sneaker culture, will inaugurate its omnichannel launch in India on 19 October, with Metro Brands operating physical stores and Nykaa Fashion managing the e-commerce business.

    The first store, located at Select City Walk, will feature Foot Locker’s Reimagined concept, offering an innovative retail experience for consumers and sneaker enthusiasts.

    Alongside the physical store launch, Nykaa Fashion will provide an online shopping experience that mirrors the excitement of the in-store journey through its Foot Locker website and Shop-in-Shop on the Nykaa Fashion and Nykaa Man platforms. This digital platform aims to deliver a superior online shopping experience with a focus on convenience and personalisation.

    Foot Locker India will connect youth, culture, and passion-driven communities. The brand ambassadors, known as Stripers, will be category experts who enhance the shopping experience and lead community programs.

    Customer-centric initiatives, such as India’s FLX(TRA) Rewards Program, will be part of the brand experience. Metro Brands and Nykaa Fashion will provide access to top sneaker and apparel brands, including Nike, Jordan Brand, adidas, PUMA, New Balance, FILA, Asics, New Era, and more. Customers can also personalise their sneakers at the Sneaker Hub and protect their footwear with sneaker care brands like Crep.

    Commenting on the launch of India’s first Foot Locker store, Foot Locker, Inc Sr VP, strategic planning & growth Peter Scaturro said, “Bringing Foot Locker to India, via licensing arrangements  with Metro Brands and Nykaa Fashion, is a pivotal milestone in our global expansion. India’s vibrant sneaker culture offers a unique opportunity for Foot Locker to become a leading brand in the market. With our Foot Locker Reimagined concept, we aim to elevate the sneaker experience by blending innovation and technology in an immersive environment. Together with Metro Brands and Nykaa Fashion, we’re thrilled to inspire and empower Indian sneakerheads to express their individuality and connect with the Heart of Sneakers.”

    Metro Brands CEO Nissan Joseph said, “With India’s athleisure market expanding rapidly, the strategic relationship between Metro Brands Ltd, Foot Locker Inc, and Nykaa is a huge step in leveraging this tremendous opportunity. The commitment to customers and community is deeply rooted in Foot Locker’s ethos, and with Metro’s deep understanding of Indian consumers, we are excited to shape the next generation of sneaker culture, making the shopping experience more conversational and enriching for sneaker enthusiasts.”

    Commenting on the partnership, Nykaa co-founder and Nykaa Fashion CEO Adwaita Nayar said, “As the exclusive e-commerce platform for Foot Locker’s launch in India, we are thrilled to collaborate with such an iconic retailer that is revolutionizing the sneaker market. With sneaker culture gaining significant momentum in India, Nykaa Fashion is set to deliver a next-gen retail experience through our sophisticated digital platforms. Together, we are excited to create a seamless shopping journey that caters to the diverse and passionate sneaker community in India, bringing them closer to the global sneaker movement.”

  • Skechers announces the fifth edition of Mumbai Walkathon

    Skechers announces the fifth edition of Mumbai Walkathon

    Mumbai: Skechers, an American footwear brand, will be hosting the fifth edition of the Skechers Mumbai Walkathon at InOrbit Mall, Malad on 17 November 2024. This event celebrates the popular Skechers ‘go walk’ product line designed for walking.

    Registrations for the 2024 Walkathon are open until 8 November 2024 at www.skecherswalkathon.in. Skechers continues its partnership with GoSports Foundation, donating a portion of registration fees to support Indian athletes through the long-term athlete development programme.

    The event aims to build on last year’s success, which attracted over 8,000 participants, and reinforces Skechers’ commitment to promoting fitness and supporting the next generation of Indian athletes while contributing to the country’s sports culture.

    Skechers South Asia CEO Rahul Vira said, “Last year’s Walkathon demonstrated the remarkable impact Skechers can have on promoting an active lifestyle and supporting young athletes, as we saw significant community engagement and substantial contributions towards the development of India’s future sports stars. The Skechers Mumbai Walkathon has evolved into a highly anticipated fitness event in the city. This year, our collaboration with GoSports Foundation will aim to bring the city together in a festive atmosphere whilst promoting fitness as a culture in Mumbai.”

    GoSports Foundation CEO Deepthi Bopaiah commented, “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Skechers. Their support has been instrumental to the overall success of the GoSports Long-Term Athlete Development Programme (GLTADP). The CSR funds from Skechers have supported the athletes across 10 sports and facilitated various aspects of the programme, including athlete development initiatives, competition support, and overall programme enhancements. Additionally, their contributions have enabled specific interventions across our organization. The donation from this year’s Walkathon will ensure our athletes receive sustained support at multiple sports platforms.”

    Skechers India and GoSports Foundation aim to enhance Indian sports and wellness programs. Skechers has facilitated broad-based athlete support, including participation in international competitions, providing training equipment, and supporting mental and physical well-being initiatives. As a result, athletes in the program have achieved milestones in national and world championships.

    This year’s fifth edition of the Walkathon will feature several walking categories: a 10 km walk for experienced walkers, a five km walk for beginners, and a 3 km fun walk. These categories cater to various fitness levels, providing an enjoyable walking experience around the scenic route of InOrbit Mall, Malad.

  • Aiwa India launches its QLED TVs range on Amazon

    Aiwa India launches its QLED TVs range on Amazon

    Mumbai: Aiwa India, a global consumer electronics brand, announced the launch of its latest range of QLED televisions on Amazon, marking a significant expansion into the Indian e-commerce space. The launch coincides with Amazon’s highly anticipated ‘Great India Sale’, offering consumers an opportunity to purchase Aiwa’s state-of-the-art QLED TVs at exceptional prices.

    Aiwa’s QLED TV lineup is now available on Amazon, offering sizes from 32 inches to 75 inches. With Japanese R&D and Aiwa Signature Sound Technology, these QLED TVs provide vibrant picture quality and clear sound. The QLED technology is featured across all sizes, ensuring premium viewing experiences for every customer.

    Aiwa’s QLED TVs include advanced QLED display technology, delivering superior brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. This range caters to various needs, from compact spaces to full home theatre setups. Aiwa’s Sound Technology enhances audio quality, elevating entertainment experiences.

    To celebrate the launch, AIWA is offering deals during Amazon’s Great India Sale, including instant bank discounts, No Cost EMI (NCEMI) options, and price cuts on the QLED range.

    This launch marks Aiwa India’s deeper penetration into the e-commerce market. By partnering with Amazon, Aiwa aims to provide Indian consumers with high-quality, technologically advanced products at competitive prices. The company sees e-commerce as a vital channel for growth and expects it to become the second-largest sales avenue after its expanding retail network.

    Speaking on the launch, Aiwa India MD Ajay Mehta said, “Our new QLED TV range showcases Aiwa’s commitment to delivering premium technology with world-class Japanese R&D. Partnering with Amazon allows us to reach more customers while providing exceptional value through exclusive offers. This launch is a significant step in our goal to expand Aiwa’s footprint in the Indian market.”

  • Publicis Media India launches Markriti

    Publicis Media India launches Markriti

    Delhi – Publicis Media India has introduced Markriti, a cutting-edge machine-learning based Marketing Mix Modeling (MMM) tool. Powered by Meta Open Source and supported by an interactive UI, Markriti aims to deliver efficient, cost-effective, and cutting-edge MMM solutions to brand managers and CMOs across industries, further enhancing Publicis Media India’s AI footprint and strengthening its overall client servicing capabilities.

    Understanding that we live in a competitive world, brands are actively adopting a data-driven approach. They are seeking tools and metrics that can help measure return on investment (ROI), which allows them to optimize campaigns for better results. While there are many campaign measurement tools available in India, Markriti comes in as an integrated MMM solution that enables marketers to measure their ROI across various marketing channels, even before the launch of a campaign. An intervention by Publicis Media India, Markriti aims to help marketers achieve their targets and optimize budgets.

    While Markriti inherits its open source from Robyn, it is a step ahead by providing a top-down UI that allows for a low-code and hassle-free MMM workflow. It empowers strategists and analysts in post-modeling to not only engage in MMM studies but also access insightful data in under an hour. With the time saved in running the model, the Data Scientist can now focus on fine-tuning the model and insights. With capabilities across investment, strategy analytics, data, performance marketing, and content, Markriti has truly completed Publicis Media India’s suite, further reinforcing the group’s ‘Power of One’ business model.

    Publicis Media India chief solutions officer Rajiv Gopinath said, “In the dynamic world of marketing, which is highly influenced by consumer behavior, our clients have always been posed with the challenge of finding a way to measure the impact generated through their efforts accurately. With Markriti, we aim to empower marketers by supporting them from inception and ideation to execution and measuring impact. We also empower Data Scientists with a cloud computing solution and a UI that gives them flexibility in hyperparameter tuning. We are sure that Markriti will enhance marketing strategy building across industries and evolve as the partner of choice for all MMM solutions.”

    Additionally, since it is specially curated for the Indian market, Markriti not only helps in selecting the type of ad stock, hyperparameters, and best Pareto model but also provides complete guidance in each step of the modeling process.

    Dabur, having worked with Publicis Media India for close to a decade, recently deployed Markriti for the Karnataka market to address issues around brand growth and return on investment through their marketing efforts. The problem at hand was to create a comprehensive MMM that could quantify the ROI, determine the optimal marketing mix, and provide strategic insights for improved marketing efficiency. Markriti, with its transformative approach and user-friendly nature, efficiently analysed their past marketing campaigns and helped Dabur optimize the existing budget, alongside a significant boost in the overall return on ad spend.

    Dabur India Head of Media & Brand Activation, VP, Rajiv Dubey said, “Publicis Media India has been our analytics partner since 2015. Every year, they bring something new to the table regarding analytics. The Markriti innovation is a great initiative and it’s great to have a partner thinking about driving our business goals. It was used for the Karnataka MMM this year.”

    Additionally, Dabur India, Head of Marketing, Oral Care, Augustus Daniel having seen the usage of Markriti in his category, shared, “We’ve been using Publicis Media India for MMM services for quite some time now, and this year they’ve introduced a new modern approach to MMM through their tool ‘Markriti’, through which the results for the Karnataka market were developed. Markriti uses the powerful Meta Open Source library Robyn and represents some of the best the industry offers in the field. We look forward to more innovations from Publicis Media India in the analytics area.” 

  • Weekend Unwind with Dorby’s Mehul Agarwal

    Weekend Unwind with Dorby’s Mehul Agarwal

    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 Dorby director and CEO Mehul Agarwal. With a Bachelor of Management Studies and nearly a decade of experience in the building materials industry, he co-founded Dorby in 2017, aiming to revolutionize interior design. Under his leadership, Dorby has become one of the market leader’s in laminate manufacturing and home décor products, focusing on quality and innovation. Mehul envisions elevating Dorby as a top lifestyle brand, transforming spaces into artistic expressions. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling and exploring new business perspectives.

    Without further ado, here it goes…

    Your mantra for life

    I firmly believe that success is a lifelong journey, not a destination. In a world of constant evolution, a growth mindset is essential. At the same time, it’s important to always remain a lifelong learner. Even in the surface décor industry, I’m constantly discovering new things. Every experience, every challenge, and every success offer valuable lessons. Staying curious and open to new perspectives helps me continually adapt and grow, both personally and professionally.

    A book you are currently reading or plan to read

    I am engrossed in ‘The Power of the Subconscious Mind’ and ‘The Catalyst’. These books have been incredibly illuminating. They’ve shown me the profound impact our thoughts and environment have on our choices and outcomes. It is fascinating to discover how subtle shifts in perspective or surroundings can catalyse significant transformations. The insights have also been invaluable in shaping my leadership philosophy, particularly in the interior décor segment, where the right design choices can evoke emotions and set the tone for a space, ultimately influencing how people feel and interact within it.

    Your fitness mantra

    My fitness mantra is simple: build a stronger mind and body. It is essential to cultivate mental resilience along with better physical strength. Consistency, discipline, and willpower are my guiding principles. I believe a healthy body is the foundation for a sharp mind and ultimately a fulfilling life.

    Your comfort food

    Sushi and Thai curry with rice are my go-to comfort foods. The combination of flavours is incredibly soothing and satisfying. When faced with a demanding schedule or stressful situations, indulging in a favourite meal helps me recharge and find balance.

    A quote or philosophy that keeps you going when the chips are down

    “I wish that I could show you when you are lonely or in darkness the astonishing light of your own being.”

    This tiny poem, written by the 14th century Persian Sufi poet Hafiz is a constant source of inspiration for me. They remind me that even in the darkest moments, there’s an inner strength and resilience waiting to be discovered. It’s a powerful reminder to look inward for solace and find beauty amidst adversity.

    Your guilty pleasure

    I have a sweet tooth, so desserts definitely qualify as my guilty pleasure.

    The last time you tried something new

    I recently taught myself to make sushi and some other Asian dishes. It was a challenging but immensely rewarding experience. Experimenting with new flavours and techniques is a great way to step outside of my comfort zone and savour my hard work later.

    A life lesson you learned the hard way

    Life has taught me the importance of preparedness. Nothing is guaranteed, so I’ve learned to cultivate resilience and adaptability. Having a Plan B and a strong support network are essential. While optimism is crucial, it’s equally important to be prepared for unexpected challenges.

    What gets you excited about life?

    Bringing innovative ideas to life, especially in business, really excites me. The journey from a raw idea to a tangible product or service that makes a difference is incredibly exhilarating. Witnessing growth and expansion is what fuels my passion.

    What’s on top of your bucket list?

    Visiting Antarctica is at the top of my list. It is the wildest, coldest, and most remote continent on Earth—a place where nature is still truly untamed. Experiencing that kind of raw beauty is something I’ve always dreamed of.

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

    Persistence is key. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Trust in the journey, even when the path seems uncertain. Remember, life often leads us to places we never imagined, but that are ultimately where we’re meant to be.

    One thing you would most like to change about the world

    I would love to see a world where empathy, compassion, and respect are universal. A world where diversity is celebrated, and everyone feels like they belong. It is a vision that inspires me, and I believe it’s attainable through collective effort and conscious change.

    An activity that keeps you motivated and charged during tough times

    When faced with challenges, I find breaking down overwhelming tasks into smaller, manageable steps to be incredibly effective. Taking that first small step, no matter how insignificant it may seem, is crucial in overcoming procrastination. It’s a strategy that helps me maintain momentum and stay focused on my goals, even during the most difficult times.

    What lifts your spirits when life gets you down?

    Spending time with my loved ones— friends, family, and my dog, Euro. They always know how to lift my spirits and remind me of what really matters. They inspire me to face challenges with renewed optimism.

    Your go-to stress buster

    Enjoying the breath-taking sunset over Marine Drive from my lounge is my ultimate stress reliever. The serenity and beauty of that moment create a perfect sanctuary, allowing me to unwind and recharge, no matter how demanding my day has been.
     

  • Exploring the impact of macroeconomic factors on mutual fund performance

    Exploring the impact of macroeconomic factors on mutual fund performance

    The performance of mutual funds is intricately linked to a variety of macroeconomic factors. These elements, ranging from inflation rates to government policies, play a crucial role in shaping the returns and risks associated with mutual funds. By understanding these influences, investors can make more informed decisions and optimise their investment strategies

    The role of inflation in mutual fund performance

    Inflation is a critical macroeconomic factor that can significantly impact the performance of mutual funds. As the general price level rises, the purchasing power of money decreases, affecting the real returns of investments. Mutual funds that invest in fixed-income securities, such as bonds, are particularly sensitive to inflation. When inflation is high, the fixed interest payments from bonds may not keep up with the rising cost of living, leading to lower real returns. Conversely, equity-focused mutual funds may benefit from inflation if companies can pass on higher costs to consumers, potentially boosting their revenues and profits.

    Interest rates and their influence on mutual funds
    Interest rates, set by central banks, have a profound impact on mutual fund performance. When interest rates rise, the cost of borrowing increases, which can affect corporate profits and consumer spending. This, in turn, influences the stock market and the performance of equity mutual funds. Moreover, rising interest rates can lead to a decline in bond prices, negatively impacting fixed-income mutual funds. On the flip side, a decrease in interest rates can boost economic activity, potentially driving up stock prices and benefiting equity mutual funds. Understanding the relationship between interest rates and mutual fund performance is crucial for investors seeking to align their portfolios with changing economic conditions.

    The impact of economic growth on mutual funds

    Economic growth, measured by metrics such as GDP, plays a pivotal role in shaping mutual fund performance. A robust economy often leads to increased corporate earnings, higher employment rates, and improved consumer confidence, all of which can enhance the performance of equity mutual funds. In contrast, during periods of economic slowdown, mutual funds may face challenges as companies struggle with declining revenues and profits. Additionally, economic growth can influence the demand for commodities, affecting commodity-focused mutual funds. Investors need to consider the broader economic environment when evaluating the potential returns of mutual funds.

    Government policies and their effect on mutual funds

    Government policies, including fiscal measures and regulatory changes, can have a significant impact on mutual fund performance. Tax policies, for example, can influence the after-tax returns of mutual funds, affecting investor decisions. Changes in regulations can also impact the sectors in which mutual funds invest. For instance, stricter environmental regulations may affect energy-focused mutual funds, while policies promoting renewable energy could benefit funds investing in clean technology. Additionally, government spending and infrastructure projects can create opportunities for mutual funds invested in related sectors. Investors should stay informed about government policies to assess their potential impact on mutual fund performance.

    The influence of global events on mutual funds

    Global events, such as geopolitical tensions, trade agreements and natural disasters, can introduce volatility into financial markets and affect mutual fund performance. Geopolitical tensions may lead to market uncertainty, impacting investor sentiment and causing fluctuations in mutual fund returns. Trade agreements can affect the profitability of companies with international operations, influencing the performance of equity mutual funds. Natural disasters can disrupt supply chains and affect industries such as insurance and agriculture, impacting sector-specific mutual funds. Investors need to consider global events when assessing the risks and opportunities associated with mutual funds.

    Using an SIP calculator for informed mutual fund investments

    To navigate the complex landscape of mutual fund investments, tools like the SIP calculator can be invaluable. An SIP calculator helps investors estimate the future value of their systematic investment plan contributions, considering factors such as expected rate of return and investment tenure. By inputting different scenarios, investors can assess how macroeconomic factors might influence their investment outcomes. For instance, by adjusting the expected rate of return based on inflation projections or interest rate changes, investors can better plan their investment strategies and set realistic financial goals.

    To sum up

    Understanding the impact of macroeconomic factors on mutual fund performance is essential for making informed investment decisions. Additionally, utilising tools like the SIP calculator can enhance investment planning by providing insights into potential future returns. As the economic landscape continues to evolve, staying informed about macroeconomic factors will empower investors to navigate the complexities of mutual fund investments and achieve their long-term financial goals with less hassles.

     

  • Eveready celebrates the international week of deaf people

    Eveready celebrates the international week of deaf people

    Mumbai – Eveready Industries India Ltd., a leading name in the Indian battery and flashlight market, marked the International Week of Deaf People through a first-of-a-kind initiative at the Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities (Divyangjan) in Mumbai. This apex institute, operating under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, is dedicated to providing comprehensive services for individuals with speech and hearing impairments.

    The event, titled “Surakshit Kanya: Sashakt Kanya”, aimed to raise awareness of the critical issues faced by deaf women and creating safety measures for deaf women. Eveready actively engaged with approximately 50 attendees, including deaf students, parents, teachers, and staff from over ten schools across the city, focusing on safety for deaf adults, particularly women aged 16 and above.

    The session for deaf adults was coordinated by Dr. Gayatri Ahuja, Head of Department, Department of Education at AYJNISHD. With a key focus on women’s safety, the session included a demonstration of Eveready’s Siren Torch for personal safety. Additionally, Mr. Alok Kejriwal and Ms. Pooja Barot from India Signing Hands, were present to address the audience and share their experiences.

    Eveready Industries India Ltd General Manager – Flashlights & NPDs Insiyah Chawala stated, “At Eveready, we believe in the power of innovation to make a positive impact on society. Our participation in the International Week of Deaf People reflects our commitment to societal inclusivity and safety for all. The Siren Torch is more than just a product; it’s a means of empowerment, allowing individuals to signal for help in distressing situations, regardless of their ability to vocalise.”

    The session aligned with this year’s theme—”Sign Up for Sign Language Rights”—showcasing Eveready’s Siren Torch as a must have essential for individuals facing potentially hostile situations. The torch’s powerful 100 dBA alarm and flashing capabilities can help draw attention in emergencies. After the session, Eveready distributed Siren Torches to attendees as a thoughtful gesture to celebrate the event’s success and honour the attendees’ high spirits.

    Ali Yavar Jung National Institute of Speech and Hearing Disabilities director Suman Kumar commented, “We are pleased to collaborate with Eveready on this important initiative. This session not only equips our students with valuable safety knowledge but also reinforces the message that everyone has the right to feel secure and empowered, regardless of their disability.”

  • The right mat: Boosting performance and safety in wrestling and kabaddi

    The right mat: Boosting performance and safety in wrestling and kabaddi

    In contact sports such as wrestling and kabaddi, the playing surface plays a critical role in determining athlete safety, comfort, and performance. The mat not only cushions falls but also influences how athletes move, grip, and balance during high-intensity encounters. While both sports are contact-driven and demand immense physicality, they have distinct characteristics that shape how the mat interacts with the athletes.

    Injury prevention and safety

    The prevention of injuries is a paramount concern in both wrestling and kabaddi, given the physical intensity and frequent body contact involved in both sports. The right mat can significantly reduce the risk of injury by providing adequate cushioning to absorb the force of falls, tackles, and other impacts.

    In wrestling mat must be soft enough for cushion falls yet firm enough to allow for proper improvement and grip. Wrestlers engage in intense grappling, throws and takedowns all of which put pressure on the body. Mats that are too firm may fail to absorb the impact effectively, leading to increased risk of concussions, joint injuries, and bruising. Conversely, mats that are too soft may cause instability, making it harder for athletes to maintain their balance, potentially increasing the risk of sprains and twists. Additionally, modern wrestling mats are often coated with antimicrobial substances to prevent infections, which are which are common in close-contact sports  

    Athlete comfort

    Athlete comfort is another critical factor influenced by the mat choice in both wrestling and kabaddi. Comfort not only affects an athlete’s immediate experience but also their long-term performance by reducing fatigue and injury.

    In wrestling, the mat’s ability to provide a stable yet cushioned surface is crucial for minimizing joint stress. Wrestlers spend significant time grappling on the ground, and a comfortable mat can reduce the wear and tear on their bodies. The material and thickness of the mat play a significant role in determining the level of comfort. High-density foam mats are often preferred for wrestling, as they provide both comfort and support, allowing athletes to perform at their best without experiencing undue fatigue from harsh landings or prolonged groundwork.

    Similarly, in kabaddi, where athletes must make rapid sprints and execute tackles in a small playing area, the mat’s comfort is critical. A surface that is too hard can lead to discomfort, reducing the players’ ability to make explosive movements, while a surface that is too soft can make it difficult to change direction quickly, affecting agility. The transition from traditional mud surfaces to synthetic mats has led to a need for materials that minimize discomfort and reduce the impact on joints during fast-paced action. Properly designed mats can help reduce fatigue, enabling players to maintain high performance over longer durations.

    Impact on performance

    The type of mat used in wrestling and kabaddi can directly impact athletic performance. In athletic mats, the right amount of grip allows athletes to execute takedowns, throws, and holds with precision. If the mat is too slippery, it can result in failed techniques or unnecessary slips, hindering performance. Grip is especially important in wrestling where leverage and positioning are key to gaining an advantage over the opponent. The surface texture of the mat should allow wrestlers to move fluidly while providing the necessary traction to maintain stability during aggressive movement.

    In kabaddi, mat design is equally important for performance. As the game involves rapid sprints, sudden directional changes, and quick tackles, the mat must provide adequate grip for the feet. This prevents slipping during crucial movements, allowing players to maintain balance and control. A good quality mat can enhance player agility, giving them the confidence to perform complex maneuvers without the fear of losing their footing. Furthermore, the elasticity of the mat can affect how a player rebound from tackles and how quickly they can regain their footing which is crucial in a game where speed is paramount.

    The choice of mats in kabaddi and wrestling is more than just a matter of comfort it is integral to injury prevention, athlete well-being, and peak performance. In wrestling, mats that balance the softness and firmness reduce the risk of injury while promoting optimal movement and grip. Similarly in Kabaddi, modern mats have evolved to provide comfort, safety, and agility allowing athletes to perform at their best.  As both sports continue to develop, innovations in mat technology will play an increasingly important role in enhancing athlete safety, comfort, and performance on the mat.

    The article has been authored by Gravolite director Paras Maheshwari.