ITV

Category: Marketing

  • Bag it like it’s sacred as Donna Vanni crafts divine design with soul

    Bag it like it’s sacred as Donna Vanni crafts divine design with soul

    MUMBAI: Some bags hold your things. These ones hold your aura. Born in the leather lanes of India and stitched with cosmic precision, Donna Vanni is the homegrown luxury brand that doesn’t just make handbags, it conjures them. Rooted in centuries-old Indian craftsmanship but infused with a global design language, each Donna Vanni piece is more than an accessory, it’s a symbol, a story, a spell.

    From the sculptural Garnet tote to the crescent-shaped Ruby top-handle, the label’s designs nod to sacred geometry and gemstone lore. Woven leathers pulse with hidden rhythms, while croc-embossed clutches shimmer like stardust at dusk. These aren’t just handbags, they’re handheld altars of artistry.

    Every silhouette is hand-crafted in India using ethically sourced leather by master artisans, an ode to slow luxury in an age of fast everything. The collections are named after Earth’s most potent minerals Tourmaline, Amethyst, Peridot each bag humming with the quiet intensity of its namesake.

    But make no mistake, Donna Vanni isn’t chasing trends. It’s forging icons. Objects that whisper of feminine power, mystique, and transcendence. A Donna Vanni bag doesn’t just complement your outfit, it completes your ritual.

    Call it fashion. Or call it alchemy. Either way, when you carry a Donna Vanni, you’re not just accessorising, you’re ascending.

  • The Souled Store casts a retail spell in Colaba and rolls into Bhatinda in style

    The Souled Store casts a retail spell in Colaba and rolls into Bhatinda in style

    MUMBAI: Some brands hang up neon signs. The Souled Store builds a wizarding alley and paints an entire building like a truck. In its latest expansion, the pop culture-led fashion and lifestyle brand has opened two highly thematic stores—one in Mumbai’s Colaba and the other in Punjab’s Bhatinda—each tailored to offer an experience as unforgettable as the merchandise inside.

    In Colaba, The Souled Store has conjured up a Harry Potter-inspired wonderland, transporting shoppers straight into Diagon Alley. The store features atmospheric lighting, magical décor, and architectural details that echo the iconic wizarding universe. This is not a retail outlet—it’s a portal. Designed with intricate care, the space feels like a living tribute to J.K. Rowling’s world.

    Meanwhile, Bhatinda’s outlet is a roaring tribute to Indian roads. Crafted in the image of a giant colourful truck, the store’s façade mirrors the bold, playful, and kitschy aesthetic of Punjabi truck art. With its massive presence and unmistakable design, it functions not just as a fashion stop but a visual landmark celebrating desi street culture.

    “We’re incredibly excited about these two openings”, said The Souled Store co-founder Vedang Patel. “At The Souled Store, we believe that a store should be more than four walls—it should be an experience. Colaba and Bhatinda are two very different expressions of that vision: one magical, the other rooted in local culture. Both are unforgettable”.

    With 50 stores now across India, the brand continues its mission to redefine retail as a playground for fandoms, storytelling, and self-expression. From Hogwarts to highways, The Souled Store’s journey seems determined to colour outside the lines.

  • Salt with a side of sass Tata Salt revives its jingle with a sharp twist

    Salt with a side of sass Tata Salt revives its jingle with a sharp twist

    MUMBAI: Who knew a kitchen staple could hit all the right notes again? Tata Salt has turned up the flavour and the feels with a tuneful comeback. India’s No.1 iodised salt brand has rolled out a fresh take on its popular ‘Namak ho Tata ka… Tata Namak’ campaign, adding a modern spin to the jingle that once ruled Indian kitchens and TV sets alike. The reboot, a melodic mash-up of nostalgia, science, and family life packs in eight slice-of-life films with one unmissable message: iodine isn’t just essential, it’s brain food.

    Conceptualised by Ogilvy, the campaign brings back the catchy 80s-era jingle, now woven into lullabies, classrooms, wedding rituals and even kitty parties celebrating how Tata Salt quietly sharpens young minds across generations and geographies.

    “The jingle is a bridge between past love and present relevance,” said Tata Consumer Products president for packaged foods Deepika Bhan. “It’s not just salt. It’s Desh ka Namak, a promise of quality, trust and purpose that’s lasted four decades.”

    From a teacher humming it mid-lesson to a bride shedding a tear to its tune, the films reflect India’s cultural and linguistic diversity, Hindi heartlands, expressive Bengali families, and grounded Marathi homes. Whether it’s a mum feeding her child or a wedding caterer prepping a feast, Tata Salt is there, understated yet vital.

    Anurag Agnihotri chief creative officer Ogilvy added, “We took our iodine story, dressed it in 80s flair, and sent it dancing through vidaais, classrooms, and kitty parties. It’s a love letter to golden-age advertising, reimagined for today’s India.”

    The first four films were unveiled during the IPL, with the rest rolling out soon proving that when it comes to brand recall, sometimes all it takes is a pinch of salt and a perfectly pitched tune.

    Because if it’s Tata ka namak, it’s not just edible, it’s unforgettable.

  • Kolkata gets a Big pat on the back at this year’s Impact Awards

    Kolkata gets a Big pat on the back at this year’s Impact Awards

     MUMBAI: It was a night of spotlights, salutes and standing ovations as Big FM rolled out the red carpet for Kolkata’s most impactful players one trophy at a time. The third edition of the BIG Impact Awards Kolkata, hosted by Big FM, lit up the Vivanta hotel with stories of disruption, innovation and deep-rooted social impact. From real estate visionaries and restaurateurs to neurosurgeons and literary pioneers, 23 exceptional awardees were honoured for redefining excellence in their respective fields.

    In keeping with the event’s tagline VG T Recognising Unconventional Excellence, the awards tipped their hats to businesses that are bold enough to break the mould and brave enough to build something bigger. Presenting the awards were top dignitaries including Debashis Kumar (MLA & Mayor-in-Council) and Partha Bhowmik (MP). Acclaimed actor Abir Chatterjee added to the evening’s sparkle as the special guest.

    The event wasn’t short on star power either. Guests included Sudipa Chatterjee, Churni Ganguly, Rooqma Roy, Shruti Das, Souraseni Maitra, Basabdatta Kar, chef Rongon Neogi, and composer Indradeep Dasgupta, turning the evening into a full-blown celebration of Kolkata’s cultural and entrepreneurial fabric.

    The list of winners offered a crash course in Kolkata’s rich and varied brilliance from the best biryani and pizza joints to top-notch hospitals and publishing houses. Narayan Banerjee was crowned Healthcare Influencer of the Year, while Nadia Cassam rose to confectionery fame. JIS University and Atri Group bagged honours in education and real estate respectively, and Soham Chakraborty & team took home the award for Best Hair Replacement Centre.

    Two special mentions went to Arindam Mukherjee, who clinched awards in both industrial automation and carbon emission reductio proof that innovation often wears multiple hats.

    Speaking on the occasion Big FM COO Sunil Kumaran said, “These awards aren’t just a celebration of business success, they’re about resilience, ingenuity and heart. At BIG FM, we believe honouring today’s innovators inspires tomorrow’s trailblazers.”

    Supporting partners for the event included LTK Industries (Fashion Partner), Tata Curvv, Saini MG Motor Kolkata, Krishna Chandra Dutta (cookme) Pvt Ltd., Suzuki (Ride Partner) and Glengrant (Celebration Partner).

    With this year’s resounding success, Big Impact Awards Kolkata continues to prove that when it comes to business with heart, Kolkata means kaarigar, creator and changemaker in equal measure.

  • Tyaani Jewellery unveils Shefali Shah as first face of ‘Forces of Tyaani’ campaign

    Tyaani Jewellery unveils Shefali Shah as first face of ‘Forces of Tyaani’ campaign

    MUMBAI: When Karan Johar isn’t directing blockbusters, he’s apparently scripting cultural movements in gold. The latest chapter of Tyaani Jewellery’s journey sparkles with rebellion, emotion, and unapologetic individuality.

    Enter ‘Forces of Tyaani’—a campaign that breaks the traditional bridal mould and instead makes space for women who own their story, one gemstone at a time.

    Tyaani Jewellery by Karan Johar launched the first leg of its campaign on 2 June 2025, with acclaimed actor Shefali Shah as its inaugural brand ambassador. Known for her fierce presence on screen and even fiercer opinions off it, Shah sets the tone for what the brand calls a new era of fine jewellery. Her campaign visuals flaunt heritage-inspired artistry—crafted in gold, cut and uncut diamonds, and precious gemstones—while weaving in a narrative that celebrates strength over sparkle.

    The campaign plans to introduce over 10 such ambassadors in the coming weeks. Each face, according to the brand, is a force of their own, having carved out success on their own terms. From actors and artists to changemakers, every reveal will add a new layer to the evolving idea of luxury, framed by real stories, real women, and real jewellery.

    “We are truly excited about this new chapter. ‘Forces of Tyaani’ lies at the very heart of our brand philosophy—redefining luxury not by uniformity or status, but by celebrating individuality”, said Tyaani Jewellery founder Johar. “At its core, the campaign champions strength, authenticity, and innovation—the very pillars on which Tyaani was built. It’s a moment of pride and sheer joy to welcome Shefali to the Tyaani family”.

    With a presence in seven Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, Lucknow, and Chandigarh, Tyaani is set to open its newest outlet in Ahmedabad on 8 June. The brand also retails online at tyaani.com, ensuring these talismans of self-expression are just a click away.

    Through this 360-degree roll-out, Tyaani aims to blur the lines between ornament and identity. Jewellery here is not just about aesthetics; it’s about emotion, intention, and self-affirmation—a fitting narrative for an audience that seeks substance with shine.

  • Understanding Baggage Insurance in Travel Insurance in Detail

    Understanding Baggage Insurance in Travel Insurance in Detail

    Travelling comes with its fair share of uncertainties. Losing your baggage is one of the most common inconveniences that can disrupt your trip. This is where baggage insurance steps in, offering financial protection for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage. But how does it work with travel insurance? Let’s break it down.

    What is Baggage Insurance?

    Baggage insurance is a policy that covers the loss, theft, or damage of your checked-in or carry-on luggage. It provides compensation for your belongings, ensuring you don’t have to bear the financial burden.

    Key Features of Baggage Insurance

    ● Covers lost, delayed, or stolen baggage during your journey.

    ● Reimburses for damaged items in your luggage.

    ● Provides compensation for essential purchases if your baggage is delayed.

    ● May include coverage for valuables and important documents, subject to policy terms.

    ● Available as a standalone policy or as part of a travel insurance plan.

    How Does Baggage Insurance Work?

    If you lose your luggage during a trip, baggage insurance helps you recover the financial loss. Here’s how it works:

    ● Report the loss: Immediately inform the airline, transport service, or local authorities about the missing luggage.

    ● File a claim: Submit a claim to your insurance provider with the necessary documents like receipts, proof of loss, and the airline’s confirmation.

    ● Receive compensation: Once the claim is verified, you receive reimbursement based on the policy terms. 
    How Baggage Insurance is Included in Travel Insurance

    You can buy a travel insurance online or offline, as per your convenience. Most travel insurance plans include baggage coverage as part of the package. Here’s how it integrates: 

    ● Single trip travel insurance policies offer baggage coverage for one-time trips.

    ● Multi-trip policies cover multiple journeys within a year.

    ● Some policies allow add-ons for higher baggage coverage.

    ● Compensation varies depending on the policy limit and item category.

    ● The payout process may differ based on whether the loss occurred during air travel, rail travel, or at your accommodation.

    What is Covered Under Baggage Insurance?

    Baggage insurance typically covers:

    ● Lost baggage: Compensation for lost checked-in or carry-on luggage.

    ● Delayed baggage: Reimbursement for essentials if luggage is delayed beyond a specified time.

    ● Stolen baggage: Coverage for theft, subject to certain exclusions.

    ● Damaged baggage: Compensation for items damaged due to mishandling.

    ● Essential purchases: Covers necessary expenses such as clothing, toiletries, and medication in case of baggage delays.

    ● Loss of important travel documents: Some policies include coverage for lost passports, visas, and travel tickets.

    What is Not Covered Under Baggage Insurance?

    While baggage insurance is beneficial, it does not cover everything. Here are common exclusions:

    ● Loss due to negligence (e.g. leaving baggage unattended in public areas).

    ● Expensive items like jewellery or electronics, unless declared and specifically covered.

    ● Unreported losses without proper documentation from relevant authorities.

    ● Loss or damage due to war, natural disasters, or involvement in illegal activities.

    ● Pre-existing baggage damage: Insurers won’t cover items that were already damaged before travel.

    ● Losses not reported within the stipulated time frame: Most insurers require prompt reporting of baggage loss.

    How to Choose the Right Baggage Insurance

    When selecting baggage insurance under travel insurance, consider the following: 

    1. Coverage limits: Check how much compensation you’ll receive for baggage loss or damage.

    2. Claim process: Choose a policy with a simple and hassle-free claims procedure.

    3. Exclusions: Understand what is not covered to avoid surprises later.

    4. Premium cost: Compare different plans to get the best value for your money.

    5. Add-ons: Some policies offer additional coverage for high-value items, medical supplies, or business equipment.

    Steps to File a Baggage Insurance Claim

    Filing a claim is straightforward if you follow these steps: 

    1.    Report the loss immediately to the airline, transport service, or local authorities. 

    2.    Obtain a written report from the airline or relevant authority. 

    3.    Gather necessary documents, including receipts and proof of ownership. 

    4.    Submit the claim form with all required details. 

    5.    Follow up to track the status of your claim.

    Documents Required for Baggage Insurance Claims

    1.    Copy of the ticket and boarding pass 

    2.    Property Irregularity Report (PIR) from the airline 

    3.    Police report in case of theft 

    4.    Receipts of lost or damaged items 

    5.    Photographic evidence, if available

    Tips to Avoid Baggage Mishaps

    While baggage insurance is useful, taking precautions can help you avoid losses:

    ● Use baggage trackers: GPS-enabled devices can help you locate lost luggage.

    ● Label your bags clearly: Include contact details both inside and outside the suitcase.

    ● Take pictures of your luggage: Helps in identifying it and speeds up claim processing.

    ● Keep valuables in carry-on luggage: Avoid checking in important or high-value items.

    ● Arrive early at the airport: Reduces the chances of baggage mishandling due to last-minute check-ins.

    Baggage insurance is a crucial part of travel insurance, providing financial security against lost, delayed, or stolen luggage. Whether you’re opting for single trip travel insurance or a comprehensive annual plan, make sure your baggage is covered. Whether you are securing travel insurance online or offline, always read the policy terms carefully and choose a plan that best suits your travel needs. 
     

  • Marketing maven Nikhil Gupta climbs the ladder at Accenture

    Marketing maven Nikhil Gupta climbs the ladder at Accenture

    MUMBAI: Nikhil Gupta has landed himself a plum new role as marketing manager at Accenture, capping off what must feel like a victory lap around the corporate track. The marketing maestro, who has been grinding away at the consulting behemoth for the better part of a decade, will now orchestrate campaigns across Europe and beyond from his base in Gurugram.

    Gupta’s ascent through Accenture’s ranks tells the tale of shrewd corporate climbing. He spent 11 months as associate manager for opportunity-centric marketing in EMEA before snagging his latest gig in June. Prior to that, he cut his teeth as a platforms and processes strategist, helping wrangle a team of over 100 marketing mavens into shape.

    The promotion caps a career that began in the trenches of digital marketing back in 2011. Gupta previously wielded his creative powers at McCann Worldgroup, where he spent two years evangelising Google’s digital platforms to chief marketing officers across India. He also did stints at boutique agencies ToThe New, Olive Global and Blue Digital Media before joining Accenture’s marketing machine in 2016.

    Now ensconced in his corner office (or hybrid workspace, more likely), Gupta will be crafting “innovative, integrated strategic marketing campaigns” for Accenture’s most complex and transformational deals. Not bad for someone who started out as a digital marketer in Delhi’s agency scene over a decade ago.

  • Varun T Wanvari circles back to Himalaya Wellness

    Varun T Wanvari circles back to Himalaya Wellness

    MUMBAI: Varun T Wanvari has pulled off corporate India’s latest U-turn, returning to Himalaya Wellness Company in May after an 18-month sojourn through Amazon’s retail machinery.

    “Some journeys come a full circle,” the category manager declared on LinkedIn, clearly pleased with his homecoming. He’s not wrong—Wanvari previously managed lotions and creams at The Himalaya Drug Company from 2016 to 2018.

    His career reads like FMCG bingo: systems engineer at Tata Consultancy Services, marketing intern for Hot Wheels at Mattel, brand duties at Reliance’s Hamleys, and five years flogging Good Day biscuits and Toastea at Britannia Industries. Amazon beckoned in late 2023 as senior category manager, but the wellness world’s siren call proved stronger.

    “Grateful for the continued trust,” Wanvari said, deploying enough LinkedIn enthusiasm to power a small ashram. His hashtag-heavy post (#NewBeginnings #WellnessWithPur) suggests genuine excitement about returning to products you can actually smell.

    Whether he’ll apply Amazon’s data wizardry to ancient ayurvedic wisdom remains to be seen. This boomerang has landed exactly where it started—with considerably more corporate spin.

  • Marketing maestro plugs into EV future at Astro Motors

    Marketing maestro plugs into EV future at Astro Motors

    MUMBAI: Aniruddha Khandekar, a true grand fromage in the marketing consultancy world, has just revved up his career with a cracking new gig. He’s been tapped as the fresh-faced marketing director at Astro Motors IN, an emerging electric vehicle manufacturer looking to absolutely revolutionise the industry. He’s only been on the job since March 2025, but one expects he’s already hitting the ground running in Pune, Maharashtra.

    Astro Motors isn’t just another tin box on wheels; it’s a disruption-focused outfit intent on combining sheer innovation with a dollop of education to cut through the noise in India’s bewildering EV marketplace. Its advanced vehicle design, superior performance, and integrated management systems are built to meet the demands of everyone from your individual punter to the largest fleet operators. It sounds like the folks there are not just selling cars, they’re selling a vision – and a very British one at that.

    Khandekar brings a truly impressive pedigree to the role, having clocked up over 20 years in the cut-throat advertising and media trenches. The strategy consultant and fractional CMO, formerly of G-S-D Consulting, has been a marketing gun-for-hire, delivering impact for a stellar roster of clients. He’s previously steered the strategic ship for heavy hitters like Marico, Colgate Palmolive, Dell, and Lenovo during his VMLY&R days. Before that, his brainy insights bolstered giants such as Bajaj Auto, P&G, Oreo, Asian Paints, and Tata Sky during stints at Leo Burnett and Ogilvy. He’s consulted for everyone from EdTech startups like Accreda to Web3 MarTech platforms such as Cultos, even dabbling in market entry strategy for an electric commuter motorcycle – quite the pre-nup for his current role, one might say!

    With a track record of shaping consumer insights and crafting go-to-market strategies, Khandekar’s arrival promises to inject a serious jolt of marketing wizardry into Astro Motors. The EV space just got a bit more exciting, and rather stylishly so.

  • Marketing maven climbs the Kotak ladder with promotional panache

    Marketing maven climbs the Kotak ladder with promotional panache

    MUMBAI: Kanchi Parekh has ascended to vice president marketing at Kotak Mahindra Bank, capping a three-year climb through the private banking heavyweight’s ranks. The April 2025 promotion marks another conquest in her decade-plus march through India’s most competitive financial services sector.

    Parekh’s CV reads like a masterclass in brand warfare. Her journey began at Peacock Media (2008-2010), cutting teeth on client management and retail campaigns. A stint at The Indian Express honed her event orchestration skills before the real breakthrough at DHFL, where she managed portfolios worth Rs 89-107 crores whilst delivering a jaw-dropping 458 per cent lift in enquiries and 1,377 per cent increase through direct CRM.

    At ItzCash Card, India’s pioneering prepaid card entity, she commanded Rs 6 crores across 65,000 franchisees. Her insurance sector mastery crystallised at Future Generali and HDFC ERGO, where she crafted “always-on” marketing strategies spanning retail, bancassurance, and digital channels. SBI General Insurance elevated her to team lead, polishing her multi-channel expertise.

    Kotak clearly spotted a thoroughbred when it hired Parekh as deputy vice president in February 2022. Her swift promotion suggests the investment paid handsome dividends. In an era of soaring customer acquisition costs, having a marketing strategist who navigates B2C and B2B2C channels with equal aplomb is worth its weight in rupees.

    Her skill set resembles a marketing Swiss Army knife: campaign management, digital strategy, public relations, employer branding, and analytics—all backed by proven agency management abilities. As India’s financial services sector digitises rapidly, Kotak appears to have secured a marketing general capable of commanding campaigns across every conceivable channel.

    For Parekh, vice president represents not just career progression, but validation of a strategy that’s seen her master every major financial vertical whilst building Mumbai’s most versatile marketing reputation.