Category: Marketing

  • “Our approach to innovation revolves around our core motto of providing home-cooked meals for all”: Shammi Agarwal

    “Our approach to innovation revolves around our core motto of providing home-cooked meals for all”: Shammi Agarwal

    Mumbai: In a world of dining out and app-driven meals, Pansari Group celebrates the joy of home-cooked goodness. They want their consumers to rediscover the satisfaction of preparing wholesome meals with their quality ingredients. And Embrace the warmth of homemade flavors, fostering a healthier and more connected lifestyle. Pansari Group encourages everyone to savor the pleasure of cooking at home.

    With a product range focused on consumer holistic health and well-being, Pansari Group offers a range of edible oils, specialty rice & flour products, and instant Indian mixes in North India. Founded in 1940, Pansari Group was built on the fundamentals of safe, healthy, and nutritious home-cooked food. From the start, they wanted to make cooking a seamless and easy process for everyone.

    In line with their mission to enhance the home-cooking experience, the company has recently launched an exciting new product line: Pansari Chai and TVOY Green Tea. These products are designed to cater to the evolving tastes and health-conscious preferences of modern consumers. Pansari Chai brings a rich and aromatic tea experience, perfect for those cherished moments of relaxation. Meanwhile, TVOY Green Tea offers a refreshing and healthy beverage option, aligning with the growing trend towards mindful consumption.

    In lieu of this, the company reported a turnover of Rs 1,400 crore in the last fiscal year, with 20 per cent of this revenue coming from exports and the rest from domestic sales. This year, they are aiming even higher, with a projected turnover of Rs 1,700 crore.

    Indiantelevision.com reached out to Pansari Group’s director Shammi Agarwal where he delved more into diversifying its product portfolio and expanding geographically in western and southern India and a lot more….

    Edited excerpts

    On the inspiration behind the recent launch of Pansari Chai and TVOY Green Tea

    The recent launches of Pansari Chai and TVOY Green Tea embody our commitment to innovation and meeting evolving consumer needs. With four distinct varieties, Pansari Chai caters to diverse preferences, showcasing our emphasis on offering choice and quality. Similarly, TVOY Green Tea goes beyond being just a product; it’s a lifestyle choice aligned with growing health consciousness. Offering flavors like Classic, Chamomile, and Kahwa, TVOY combines tradition with wellness, catering to health-conscious consumers seeking indulgence. These launches expand our product range, demonstrating our ability to innovate while staying true to our mission of providing quality and healthy choices to our customers.

    On strategies you employ to ensure successful market penetration in these regions

    In the southern market, where we are already established to some extent, we are doubling down on our efforts by conducting extensive market research. Understanding the local preferences, including factors like packet sizes, and quality expectations. For example, people from South India prefer dust in tea and information like this is crucial for creating our products to meet the demands of this diverse market. We are actively working on refining our packaging to align with the preferences of consumers in the South. This includes not only adjusting packet sizes but also ensuring that our products meet the quality standards that resonate with southern consumers.

    Moreover, we recognize the importance of agility in our approach to regional markets. Each area has its own set of challenges and opportunities, and we are committed to adapting our strategies accordingly. In addition to product refinement, we are also ramping up our retail activities. This includes participating in fairs and B2B events to showcase our offerings and forge valuable partnerships.

    On the company’s impressive financial performance, factors contributing to its growth, and the key objectives for future expansion

    Our financial performance can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, the productivity of our teams and the efficiency of our operations have played a significant role. We have focused on streamlining processes and using technology to optimize everything from order to dispatch and stock management across our depots nationwide. Embracing tech solutions has pushed our agility and responsiveness, ensuring smooth operations and better customer service. Moving forward, our key objectives for future expansion revolve around continued technological integration and innovation. We aim to further enhance efficiency and scalability by investing in advanced software and systems.

    Additionally, we remain committed to encouraging a culture of continuous improvement, empowering our teams to adapt and excel in an ever-evolving market landscape. By staying at the forefront of technology and operational excellence, we are set for sustained growth and success.

    On discussing the role of innovation within Pansari Group, particularly in developing new products and meeting evolving consumer preferences

    At Pansari Group, innovation is at the heart of our product development strategy. We are constantly evolving to meet the changing consumer preferences. We maintain an open mindset towards trying new products, and with initiatives like the recent launch of TVOY, we showcased our commitment to innovation. In our Horeca segment, we prioritized customer convenience and quality consistency. Innovations in seasoning and syrups, such as our unique chilly goa flavor, set us apart from competitors, demonstrating our dedication to pushing boundaries in taste and variety. While we currently focus on deepening our presence in existing categories, we remain responsive to consumer demands, whether it’s introducing new flavors or adjusting packaging sizes. This agile approach to innovation ensures that we stay ahead in meeting evolving consumer needs and preferences.

    On engaging with consumers to promote the joy of home cooking and encourage a connected lifestyle

    Our approach to innovation revolves around our core motto of providing home-cooked meals for all. We prioritize educating consumers about the health benefits and versatile applications of our products through various activities like our Mother’s Day campaigns. This educational marketing not only promotes our products but also empowers consumers with knowledge about their usage and benefits. We further aim to make our offerings easily accessible and user-friendly, ensuring that consumers understand the convenience and value they offer for home cooking. By emphasizing both promotion and hands-on experiences, we bridge the gap between consumer awareness and product usage, driving engagement and loyalty while meeting evolving preferences in the market.

    On ensuring the quality and sourcing of its ingredients, especially given the emphasis on holistic health and well-being

    Ensuring the quality and sourcing of our ingredients is extremely crucial, especially given our focus on holistic health and well-being. We maintain rigorous standards throughout the procurement process, from sample approval to quality control and assurance at every stage. Our strong checklist and standard operating procedures (SOPs) ensure consistency and excellence in sourcing, production, and final product quality. We conduct parallel sampling to validate the integrity of our ingredients and monitor them throughout the production cycle. Additionally, our dedicated food technologies team oversees these processes, leveraging their expertise to uphold the highest standards of quality and safety. By adhering to stringent norms and investing in expertise and technology, we guarantee that our products not only meet but exceed expectations for purity, nutrition, and overall well-being.

    On sharing any upcoming initiatives or projects that you have in store for the future, particularly in line with its mission and values

    Looking ahead, our primary focus is on strengthening our presence in regions where we’ve already built a solid foundation. We plan to use our existing networks and infrastructure to expand our coverage and deepen our engagement in these markets. For instance, in the Delhi NCR region, where we presently reach 40,000 counters, our ambition is to extend our footprint even further.

    In markets where we’ve established ourselves, our strategy involves intensifying our penetration, nurturing stronger bonds with our current customer base, and optimizing our market share. Meanwhile, in new territories, we’re in the testing phase, meticulously assessing opportunities and understanding customer feedback. These initiatives align with our mission of providing quality products and services while staying attuned to evolving consumer needs and preferences.

  • IPL Biologicals appoints cricket legend Yuvraj Singh as brand ambassador

    IPL Biologicals appoints cricket legend Yuvraj Singh as brand ambassador

    Mumbai: IPL Biologicals Ltd, a leading agro-biological company, has appointed the cricket maestro Yuvraj Singh as the company’s first-ever brand ambassador. This partnership signifies the next growth phase for IPL Biologicals, aligning with the company’s recent rebranding and its groundbreaking Microbot Technology introduction, marking a significant milestone in its 30-year journey of excellence and growth.

    As a multiformat world cup champion known for his unparalleled resilience and triumphs on and off the field, Yuvraj Singh’s inspiring journey resonates deeply with IPL Biologicals’ commitment to overcoming challenges and promoting growth by providing biological solutions to farmers.

    “I am thrilled and honoured to be associated with IPL Biologicals, the company shares my values of resilience, growth, and empowerment. I am excited about the possibilities this partnership holds and look forward to making a meaningful difference in the lives of farmers worldwide by providing microbiological solutions”, said the ace cricketer Yuvraj Singh.

    IPL Biologicals Pvt. Ltd. president Harsh Vardhan Bhagchandka said, “We are delighted to welcome Yuvraj Singh to the IPL Biologicals family as our first brand ambassador. Yuvraj’s remarkable journey inspires us, and his association with our brand marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in our expansion journey. We are excited about the possibilities this partnership brings and look forward to sharing many more exciting developments in the future.”

    IPL Biologicals Ltd. specialises in biological solutions for agriculture; and has the widest portfolio of bio-fertilisers and bio-pesticides with over 60+ products for disease and pest management, plant nutrient & health management, and soil management. These products are renowned for high quality and efficacy. The IPL Biologicals Research & Development Centre has a world-class infrastructure focused on research and technology with 48 scientists, microbiologists, and agronomists. The company has a most modern completely integrated manufacturing plant with Class- D contamination control facilities as per the latest ISO standards.

    As IPL Biologicals sets its sights on future expansion and continued innovation, the strategic partnership with Yuvraj Singh represents a fusion of passion, determination, and boundless potential. The company is on a journey to make a profound impact on the agricultural sector, driving sustainable growth and prosperity for generations to come. 

  • JBL blurs the line between real and surreal with powerful sound and incredible design

    JBL blurs the line between real and surreal with powerful sound and incredible design

    Mumbai: In a crowded landscape of branded content and commercials, differentiation is one of the biggest differentiating factors. Recognising this, audio giant JBL (from the house of HARMAN) has ingeniously showcased its distinctiveness through a captivating series of mixed-reality videos.

    Designed to create buzz about JBL’s top-of-the-line audio components like Tour One M2 Headphones, PartyBox Ultimate speaker, and Authentics speaker – each video showcases how powerful sound can make anything, and anybody, come alive and dance.

    Conceptualised by Havas Worldwide India, this immersive three-video series transcends conventional marketing approaches by seamlessly blending reality with technology. Iconic landmarks across India served as the canvas for this innovative showcase, offering viewers an unforgettable glimpse into JBL’s unrivalled professional audio capabilities.

    HARMAN India director of integrated marketing Yogesh Nambiar said, “We’re witnessing the growing and well-accepted use of AI, AR and VR in marketing campaigns. As a frontrunner in the audio industry, JBL is always eager to adopt the latest approaches and technologies that showcase the edge that we bring to the table. 2023 witnessed our 3D anamorphic films at various airports across the country which received an overwhelming response from partners and customers alike. This year, we are seeing great response on our mixed reality videos as well. The Authentics series video was no different. Thanks to our partners Havas Worldwide India and the people at Unstitched –  founders Ashvir Khurana & Nikita Ramrakhyani and Yashvi Bothra from the creative team – I daresay this one will surpass the earlier ones. I’m glad that this is how JBL lovers saw the product for the first time. One icon working with another.”

    Speaking about the campaign, Havas Worldwide India chief creative officer and joint managing director Anupama Ramaswamy said, “Mixed reality is a popular and powerful medium for brands. It is fun, light-hearted and immersive. It also makes the content more shareable and memorable. However, many brands use mixed reality as a gimmick, without any connection to the product or the message. JBL products are different. So, our ambition was to create something that displayed their abilities in full glory. They offer powerful sound and come with stunning designs. In the end, it was easy to land on an idea that makes the world around them come alive and party with them.”

     

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by JBL India (@jblindia)

     

     

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

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    A post shared by JBL India (@jblindia)

     

  • The cannon returns as Adidas and Arsenal unveil home kit for 2024/25

    The cannon returns as Adidas and Arsenal unveil home kit for 2024/25

    Mumbai – adidas and Arsenal revealed the new home kit for the 2024/25 season, with the club’s iconic cannon at the heart of a timeless look that celebrates the rich heritage of The Gunners.

    The club’s traditional colours of red and white with a slick navy addition, combine to create a modern looking design, that sees the cannon feature outside the crest on the home kit for the first time since the 1989/90 season. Previously seen on Arsenal away and third kits, the cannon represents an enduring symbol of Arsenal’s history which has been synonymous with the club since its inception.  

    The minimalist design features a block red and white base. The use of a unique structured fabric throughout, creates a textured feel and adds intrigue to the design when viewed up close. Binding the jersey is the use of navy-blue detailing on the adidas three-stripes and side panels, creating a seamless connection between shirt and shorts.

    The new kit will be worn on pitch for the first time by Arsenal Women when they take on Brighton in the final match of the WSL season on Saturday May 18.

    The 24/25 season will see the iconic symbol feature across home, away and third kits for one season only – creating a fresh and forward-looking aesthetic, acting as the club’s compass guiding the teams forward as one in the pursuit of progress.

    adidas SVP of Product and Design Sam Handy said, “We anchored this season in the iconography of Arsenal – and there is no more iconic symbol for Arsenal than the cannon. In development, we revisited the archive and reviewed years of design and collaboration, the core elements of the club’s identity to players and supporters.

    So, this season is all about the cannon, the role it plays in the legacy of the club and reintroducing it to a fresh generation of supporters and players.”

    Arsenal forward, Gabriel Martinelli said, “Since joining Arsenal, it has been clear to me how important the cannon is, to this great club and our supporters. It epitomises our spirit and we’re excited to wear it on the pitch with pride next season.” men’

    Arsenal forward, Alessia Russo said, “I love the simplicity of this new kit – giving the cannon space to shine. We know how much it means to the supporters – so to have it front and centre of our home kit will fill us with confidence every time we step foot on the pitch.”

    Crafted for performance and to provide world-class players with the confidence to play under pressure, the lightweight jerseys feature the latest in adidas technology and were created in close collaboration with the Arsenal men’s and women’s teams.

    The on-field version of the jersey is constructed with HEAT.RDY technology, optimized to keep players feeling comfortable. While the fan version features AEROREADY technology, which uses sweat-wicking or absorbent materials to keep the body feeling dry.  

    The debut of the home kit is accompanied by an exciting tribute film, exploring the passion that is invoked by the iconic Arsenal cannon. Starring club Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka, Alessia Russo, Beth Mead and Lotte Wubben-Moy, the launch film features the players at significant landmarks across Emirates Stadium – from the electric North Bank to the home changing room – and explores what the famous symbol means to them and the club’s supporters. 

  • BSH Home Appliances India appoints Pinaki Gupta as Head of Brand Marketing

    BSH Home Appliances India appoints Pinaki Gupta as Head of Brand Marketing

    Mumbai: BSH Home Appliances Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of BSH Hausgeräte GmbH, a global leader in the home appliance industry has appointed Pinaki Gupta as the Head Brand Marketing. With over 19 years of extensive experience in brand marketing across diverse sectors, Pinaki brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record of driving successful brand strategies to his new role.

    In his new capacity at BSH Home Appliances, Pinaki will lead the charge in crafting innovative brand strategies for the distinguished brands Bosch, Siemens, and Gaggenau, all housed under the BSH umbrella. His role includes bolstering BSH’s presence in the premium home appliances market in India, amplifying the brands’ share of voice, and elevating their brand image to new heights.

    Before joining BSH Home Appliances, Pinaki held key positions in reputable organizations including Kansai Nerolac Paints Limited, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, Lifestyle International Pvt Ltd, Arvind Ltd, and Nilkamal Ltd. His most recent role at Nilkamal Ltd saw him at the helm of preparing and executing strategic roadmaps for the brand across a diversified portfolio of product offerings. He spearheaded the repositioning of the Nilkamal brand and designed a new brand architecture in alignment with the brand philosophy, showcasing his strategic vision and leadership.

    Pinaki’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for BSH Home Appliances India as the company embarks on an exciting journey of growth and innovation in the Indian market. With his wealth of experience and strategic prowess, Pinaki is poised to drive BSH’s brand marketing efforts to unprecedented success.

    Commenting on his new role, Gupta said, “I am delighted to join BSH Home Appliances, a globally renowned brand known for its innovation and high quality customer centric premium home appliances. I look forward to collaborating with the talented team and leveraging my experience to further elevate the legendary brands Bosch, Siemens, and Gaggenau.  Together, we will strive to enhance the brand experience for our customers and reinforce our position as leaders in the premium and luxury home appliances segment.”

  • Appliances – The future

    Appliances – The future

    Mumbai: Home appliances are revolutionising domestic life. They are now offering seamless connectivity and advanced automation for enhanced convenience and efficiency. With advancements in smart technology, expect more and more appliances that seamlessly integrate into interconnected homes, offering unprecedented automation and customization.

    More and more manufacturers and consumers are beginning to focus on appliances that can reduce energy and water waste. The newer generation of consumers is extremely eco-friendly and much more mindful of the problems of the planet.

    From my over three decades of experience handling electronics, mobiles and appliances and studying current trends, I believe two key technologies are likely to shape the future of home appliances more and more – a) Combination of AI and IOT, and b) Brushless Direct Current Motors (BLDC)

    Most smart devices are based on a combination of AI and IOT technologies. Such technologies make it easy for consumers to communicate with the devices remotely. One’s home lighting or AC can  turn ‘ON’ automatically before one returns home, or our smart fan can adjust its speed per our customized settings during night-time. All such features are the gift of these modern-day technologies.

    Brushless direct current motors end up saving a lot more energy. Since these motors are brushless, they utilize maximum power without wasting energy in the form of heat. Therefore, they provide more output than traditional home appliances.

    Gesture control and voice activation is also the way forward.

    Right from big to small home appliances, consumers are looking for smart devices for a smooth and easy user experience. From smart fans to mixer grinders and coffee machines to body care appliances, AI is integrated into many devices to give scalable and personalized experiences to consumers.

    With increased awareness regarding environmental issues, it is imperative that technology start focusing on energy-efficient and sustainable appliances. The power consumption of energy-star-rated appliances is less, and so are the green-house gas emissions. One gets to see a lot of advancement in the material and design of appliances. However, much more care needs to be taken to reduce the environmental impact of disposal and manufacturing.

    As technology advances and startups continue to disrupt the space with innovative products, the trend of smart appliances will only gain momentum. Larger companies will follow suit, and smart appliances will eventually become a staple in homes worldwide. For tech-savvy individuals, working couples with busy schedules and small families, smart appliances will provide valuable assistance without the need for hiring expensive help.

    The ultimate vision is a fully automated home, where smart appliances collaborate seamlessly to manage chores and daily tasks independently and revolutionize our lives. From managing our energy consumption to optimizing cooking processes, these innovative devices enhance convenience and efficiency. Embracing the era of smart appliances promises a future where household chores are effortlessly managed, leaving us with more opportunities to enjoy life to the fullest.

    Premiumization is a trend which is gaining global momentum, be it in housing, cars, appliances, mobiles, electronics or any product category. There is a certain percentage of users who are not shying away from paying extra for better experience, convenience, connectivity and energy efficiency. As newer and more energy-efficient products emerge, not only is there a growing new market, there is also a strong replacement market for older appliances.

    Over the long term, caution needs to be exercised as premiumization may turn out to be a difficult strategy to keep up forever.

    Industry stakeholders will need to debate between sustainability and technology leadership strategies in the appliances market. Sustainability is not only a buzzword; it is everyone’s responsibility to save our planet for future generations. Hence, many manufacturing industries keep this in mind while designing their products, and consumers prefer to buy sustainable products because of the increase in awareness.

    Sustainability is no longer optional for companies if they want continued access to markets. Many countries are mandating that manufacturers comply with carbon mandates. This is done to prevent companies from outsourcing their carbon footprint.

    The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), coming into force in 2026, will require importers to the EU to purchase certificates to cover the cost of their emissions at the same level as EU manufacturers.

    However, strangely the appliance industry is still largely focused on selling hardware. Service, as understood in this industry, typically means the maintenance, repair or replacement of appliances.

    I believe this relationship needs to be re-looked at seriously. It should be focused on specific services that consumers want, such as personalized health and enhanced experiences. Investing in services requires a different mindset and business model. An entire ecosystem of partners and delivery systems, payment systems could be built. Instead of one-off sales, for premium products, services could typically come through a subscription-based plan, with recurring payments and services via mobile apps. The new generation is already used to such models via their mobiles.

    Services also have the specific benefit of being highly profitable and are recurring. Nobody looks forward to their next appliance repair.

    There are many brands which operate and sell under one global brand name, while some organizations opt for multiple brands under their umbrella. There is no right or wrong answer. It depends on the context and the strategic direction and the tactics which are used on the ground to enable companies to maximize the benefits of whatever direction they choose.

    For now, the low-to-mid category brands and new entrants have to re-work their strategies while giving initial push through online channels and also targeting smaller towns.

    Competition from unorganised players will always pose a significant challenge for consumer durables brands. In this particular category, after the growth of online, gray players often offer low-cost alternatives imported from other countries with untested quality standards. These players undercut companies that adhere to quality standards. Such products pose a major hazard and risk.

    All in all, the next few years look good though margins will remain under pressure and inflationary pressures may slow-down the growth of premiumisation.

    The article has been authored by consultant director, SSGM UAE board member, UAE superbrands council member, HBR advisory council, TiE Dubai charter member – Niranjan Gidwani.

  • Mahindra, Santanu Hazarika & Nought One collab to showcase XUV 3XO inspired streetwear collection

    Mahindra, Santanu Hazarika & Nought One collab to showcase XUV 3XO inspired streetwear collection

    Mumbai: Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, India’s leading SUV manufacturer, has  teamed up with artists Santanu Hazarika and Abhishek Paatni of Nought One to showcase a streetwear collection that draws inspiration from the design and colours of the Mahindra XUV 3XO. The collection was introduced at the XUV 3XO ‘Tech Fashion Tour’, an exhibit property,  held in Mumbai, showcasing Mahindra’s innovative approach to connecting with new-age customers.

    Design elements from the XUV 3XO, like its distinctive diamond inserts and logo, have been creatively adapted into the apparel, linking the pieces directly to the SUV’s aesthetic. This  collection is targeted to attract young consumers who appreciate both modern fashion and  innovative car design.

    Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd chief design and creative officer Pratap Bose said, “Today, we are  excited to showcase a collection that brings together our passion for innovation across our authentic  SUV range with the dynamic world of fashion. The new XUV 3XO is the latest expression of Mahindra’s HEARTCORE Design philosophy. Designed to stand out from the crowd, the XUV 3XO takes the  premium compact SUV to new heights of design, technology, and innovation. This collection not only  reflects the bold and distinctive features of the XUV 3XO but also complements the lifestyle and values  of our younger consumers. Through this collaboration with Santanu and Nought One, whose work is  always at the cutting edge of design and fashion, we are reaching out to new audiences and exploring  new forms of expression.”

    Santanu Hazarika and Abhishek Paatni said, “We are thrilled to partner with Mahindra on this  unique project. This collaboration with the XUV 3XO is a perfect blend of our streetwear aesthetic with  the standout design of this modern SUV. It’s an exciting challenge to translate automotive innovation  into fashion, and we believe our customers will appreciate the creativity and authenticity behind each piece. This partnership reflects futuristic, functional clothing which blends with the aesthetics of the  new age and a progressive future.”

    This collaboration with Santanu Hazarika and Abhishek Paatni represents a new direction for  Mahindra, connecting with a broader audience through fashion and lifestyle.
     

  • Off-field insights into Smriti Mandhana in Femina’s May 2024 issue

    Off-field insights into Smriti Mandhana in Femina’s May 2024 issue

    Mumbai:  From a nine-year-old enthused about the sport to becoming one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, Smriti Mandhana’s story is an inspiration. In the May 2024 edition of Femina, Smriti candidly reflects on her challenges, her unwavering dedication to the sport, and the dreams that continue to drive her forward. In the Cover Story, the sportsperson fondly recalls the day she was able to fulfil her promise to buy a house for her family, expressing gratitude that her beloved sport, cricket, made it possible. Despite her incredible success, she comes across as grounded and focused. Whether hitting a century or walking out for zero, she is known to maintain a stoic demeanour, though the last few years have taught her to be empathetic towards the young team members she leads and mentors.

    Reflecting on her passion for cricket, Smriti shared, “I think I’ve always loved cricket, (and) like any other kid, I loved batting more than (the rest of) the game. I understood later, of course, that there is a lot more to cricket than just batting but, as a kid, I would just hit a hanging ball or play gully cricket.”

    Speaking about her family she revealed, “We come from a very humble background. Today, when I see my parents happy and the life that they’re living, I feel happy about everything that has come with cricket.”

    She added that she has gleaned life lessons from the game: “The best part about cricket is that it is a great leveller; you always start from zero. Whether you score a hundred or you have a bad match today, tomorrow you just start from the bottom again. Take that lesson to every aspect of life and you will know what to do next.”

  • Creating a fresh narrative for women in the jewellery industry

    Creating a fresh narrative for women in the jewellery industry

    Mumbai: A powerful voice in jewelry industry is undeniably women. In the changing world of the jewelry industry, women are more than just participants, they are pioneers, innovators and agents of change. We infuse this noble sector with creativity, empowerment and inclusivity as we redefine its narrative around females.

    Connected globally and driven by entrepreneurship, ladies in this business are breaking new grounds while shattering stereotypes at the same time. Among other things such as being sustainable conscious or socially responsible, our focus is also on ethics which has made us become positive forces for change. This brings about relevant transformations towards fostering an environmentally friendly-culture through meaningful consumerism.

    Recognition should be given where it’s due, hence we need to acknowledge as well as celebrate achievements of women who have worked so hard within such male dominated field like jewellery. The manufacturing industry offers opportunities for women to pursue their dreams and make a significant impact. History demonstrates that when women are involved, outcomes often diverge from the status quo, leading to unique and innovative results. By sharing stories of past achievements and showcasing existing work, we can gain a deeper understanding of our history and use that knowledge to envision future possibilities.

    Our foundation is based on genuineness, honesty and perfection. We discard any obsolete generalizations about ourselves: we know too well that leadership comes naturally to some people, others were born creators while many became influencers later on in life. Collaboration among women – mentors included – plus advocating for more support systems will enable all voices to be heard thus ensuring representation across different backgrounds thereby encouraging young girls everywhere not only to believe but pursue their careers fearlessly.

    Jewelry offers an outlet through which one can communicate their thoughts, feelings, beliefs and personality without uttering a single word. It serves as a powerful instrument for self-expression. Women have accomplished a great deal together, and it’s important to reflect on our collective achievements with excitement. However, we must also acknowledge our individual journeys and origins, recognising that they shape our path forward. As we embark on this new chapter, we enter a world of endless possibilities and potential, not only for ourselves but also for those within the jewelry industry. This beginning is just one of many chapters waiting to be written, each marked by strength, resilience, and the untapped potential within us and those around us.

    The article has been authored by Fulchand Gulabchand Jewellers director Diksha Rajawat.

  • This World Whisky Day, taste four exquisite highballs from whisky traditions around the world

    This World Whisky Day, taste four exquisite highballs from whisky traditions around the world

    Mumbai: In its thousand year journey across the globe, whisky has been adopted and loved by people all  over the world. So much so that almost each region has its own unique historic tradition of  distilling and drinking the spirit. And with the versatile whisky highball style of drinking being a worldwide favorite, we’ve compiled a list of the most delightfully unique whisky highballs you can  enjoy and take your tastebuds on a trip around the world. Whether it is the delicious and complex  flavors inspired by the American highball tradition, or the light and smooth taste of the Japanese  whisky culture, here are some top highball recipe guides to enjoy this World Whisky Day.

    1. The American-style New York Highball

    This classy highball encapsulates the rich and exciting journey of life  

    in the Big Apple with its vivid colors. The two-toned aesthetics of the  

    drink accentuate the allure of this highball, which is served with  

    DEWAR’S whisky at the bottom and topped with red wine.

    Ingredients:  

    ● 60ml DEWAR’S 12 Year Old Scotch whisky

    ● 25ml fresh lemon juice

    ● 25ml sugar syrup (1:1 sugar to water by weight)

    Steps:

    ● Add DEWAR’S whisky, lemon juice, and sugar syrup to a chilled highball glass with ice and stir to chill

    ● Top off with ~45ml of chilled soda water

    Take a spoon and put it over the drink with the bottom just touching the liquid and pour red  wine into the spoon so it floats on the top of the drink

    ● Garnish with a lemon or orange twist

    2. The French-style Elderflower Highball

    A refreshingly floral drink that perfectly captures the aesthetics and flavors of the French  printemps season, this highball brings together the bold flavors of DEWAR’S whisky with the  delicate accents of elderflower. Perfect to brew up for a relaxed Sunday brunch, or to make your  next date night extra special, it exudes delicacy and sophistication for those who enjoy their  refreshment with a touch of springtime.

    Ingredients:  

    ● 60ml DEWAR’S 12 Year Old Scotch whisky

    ● 15ml lemon juice

    ● 15ml elderflower syrup (Monin or other brand)

    Steps:

    ● Add ingredients to chilled highball glass, add ice, stir to chill and combine

    ● Top off with ~90ml of chilled soda water

    ● Garnish with your choice of edible flower

    3. The Indian-style Jamun Highball

    This marriage of whisky and jamun in a highball cocktail has a  

    quintessentially Indian connection. The aromatic and zesty flavors of jamun stands in strong juxtaposition to the smooth and layered flavor of DEWAR’S 12 Year Old  Scotch whisky in the highball – blending together to create a uniquely delectable cocktail with a  kick.

    Ingredients:

    ● 60ml DEWAR’S 12 Year Old Scotch whisky

    ● 25ml Jamun Syrup

    ● 15ml Lemon Juice

    ● Top with Soda

    Steps:

    1. Layer the whisky, jamun syrup, and lemon juice in a highball glass

    2. Fill it with ice and stir till chilled

    3. Top off with more ice and soda.

    4. Garnish with a lemon wedge or wheel

    4. The Japanese-style Green Tea Highball

    Encapsulating the essence of Japanese cocktail culture, the Green Tea Highball is built on a  harmony of flavors and meticulous craftsmanship. The subtle taste of green tea blends  seamlessly with the smooth and nuanced profile of DEWAR’S 12 Year Old Scotch whisky – creating an intricate combination of flavors that is further enhanced by the effervescence of soda  in the highball mixture.

    Ingredients:  

    ● 60ml DEWAR’S 12 Year Old Scotch whisky

    ● 5ml Lemon Juice

    ● 10ml Sugar Syrup

    ● 60ml Green Tea

    Steps:

    1. Take 12 green tea bags steeped in 500ml hot water for not  more than 30 seconds. Chill it once ready.

    2. Add the chilled green tea to all the other ingredients in a  highball glass

    3. Fill it with ice and stir till chilled

    4. Top it off with more ice and soda

    5. Garnish with a pineapple leave or a lime wheel

    5. Golfer’s Shot 18 Hole Whisky

    Golfer’s Shot 18 Hole Whisky by Alcobrew Distilleries is a perfectly blended imported Scotch malt and finest Indian grain whiskies, and matured malts aged in oak casks. The palate is enhanced by lovely apricot notes, as well as overtones of dry sherry and buttery butterscotch. This incredible trip concludes with a lengthy, woody aftertaste with aromas of cinnamon and the refinement of matured malts aged in chosen oak casks. Crafted by the Master Blender, this one-of-a-kind mix combines the peak of Scotch malts with Indian counterparts, as well as grain spirits, all aged in meticulously selected oak barrels. The ultimate result is a magnificent elixir designed for the discerning connoisseur and trendsetter, demonstrating the Blender’s daring in pushing limits.

    Below image is the reference for its receipe

    Golfer's Shot 18 Hole Whisky