Category: Media and Advertising

  • Prasun Kumar elevated to chief marketing officer at Magicbricks

    Prasun Kumar elevated to chief marketing officer at Magicbricks

    Mumbai: Prasun Kumar, who was previously business head – New Revenue Verticals & Head – Operations, Digital Marketing & Quality Assurance at Magicbricks has been promoted to chief of marketing at the leading real estate portal.

    In this new capacity, Prasun will oversee the company’s entire marketing, research, and editorial functions. Additionally, he will also be Business Head for a few strategic revenue verticals.

    Before rejoining Magicbricks in 2023, Prasun held the position of chief marketing officer at Justdial. His professional journey, spanning over two decades, includes leadership roles at renowned organisations such as Reliance Communications, Sony Mobile Communications, MTS, Levi Strauss & Co., Madison Communications, and McCann Worldgroup.

  • PVR-INOX partners with Khushi Advertising to boost cinema advertising

    PVR-INOX partners with Khushi Advertising to boost cinema advertising

    Mumbai: PVR-INOX, India’s largest film exhibitor, secures a strategic partnership with Khushi Advertising Ideas Pvt. Ltd (KAIPL) to revolutionise cinema advertising in South India. This collaboration capitalises on the growing demand for cinema advertising, with the market Ad-Ex projected to grow by 12 per cent this year.  

    With over 20 years of experience, Khushi Advertising is known for its innovative campaigns that reach consumers across 35 cities through a dedicated team of over 250 professionals. The five-year contract appoints Khushi Advertising as the exclusive ad-sales affiliate for the South India market, aiming to manage cinema advertising sales effectively and enhance PVR-INOX’s market share.  

    The partnership reflects confidence in cinema advertising’s future, which saw a remarkable growth rate of 36 per cent last year. According to PVR INOX, CEO – revenue and operations, Gautam Dutta, “This new strategic partnership between two leaders in the industry goes beyond the transactional value. It aims to reform the market, provide better control over market narratives and commercials, and most importantly, uphold the value of cinema advertising among our esteemed advertisers and trade partners, who have been an integral part of our success. Traditionally, advertising sales contributed 10-11 per cent of our total revenue, but post-COVID, that contribution dipped to around 7-8 per cent as we were on a recovery path. We strongly anticipate that this partnership, along with our ongoing leadership initiatives, will strengthen our ad-sales contribution and help us return to pre-COVID levels. We look forward to the success of this partnership.”

    Khushi Advertising Ideas Pvt. Ltd., CEO, Vishnu Telang highlights the remarkable growth and universal appeal of South Indian cinema, stating, “The South Indian film industry has experienced phenomenal growth, with blockbuster hits like KGF 2, RRR, Salaar Part 1: Ceasefire, and Pushpa driving robust advertising activity and fostering a passionate fanbase. With highly anticipated releases such as Vettaiyan, Kanguva and Pushpa 2 scheduled for this year, 2024 is set to be the ‘Year of South Movie Dominance.’ To leverage this momentum, we are excited to announce our strategic partnership with PVR Inox, which will significantly expand our advertising footprint in South India. This collaboration allows us to tap into a dynamic audience through highly impactful advertising campaigns linked to our diverse lineup of films, creating lucrative opportunities for brands to engage effectively. At Khushi Advertising, we excel in providing integrated OOH solutions across India, utilising specialised venues such as malls, airports, and corporate parks. Our strategic focus on maximising brand visibility ensures that we craft compelling campaigns that resonate with audiences in vibrant environments. Together with PVR Inox, we are poised to enhance advertising revenues and deliver your message directly to your target audience, no matter where they choose to engage.”

    Khushi Advertising Ideas Pvt. Ltd., director, Pranay Shah stated, “We are thrilled to announce our strategic partnership with PVR INOX, a leader in the cinema exhibition industry. This collaboration aims to revolutionise cinema advertising by providing brands with unparalleled access to a diverse audience in a captivating environment. As cinema attendance continues to rise, we anticipate that this collaboration will not only enhance brand engagement but also drive significant growth in advertising revenue for both Khushi Advertising and PVR INOX. Together, we are committed to setting new standards in cinema advertising and creating memorable experiences that leave a lasting impression on audiences.”

  • GrowthJockey appoints former google exec Mrinal Kumar as VP of technology

    GrowthJockey appoints former google exec Mrinal Kumar as VP of technology

    Mumbai: GrowthJockey, India’s first full-stack venture architect company, appoints Mrinal Kumar as its vice president of Technology, bringing over 14 years of experience in leading global tech innovations. A former Google and Misys executive, Kumar’s expertise in scalable AI-driven solutions will bolster GrowthJockey’s mission to empower large enterprises with cutting-edge digital transformations and venture incubation.

    Kumar’s career includes nearly a decade at Google, where he led strategic tech projects, and leadership roles at Misys and Johnson Controls, managing global engineering teams and spearheading agile development strategies. At GrowthJockey, Mrinal will guide the company’s technology strategy, focusing on developing AI-powered platforms that help businesses capitalise on disruptive market trends.

    “Mrinal’s extensive experience in leading complex global projects and his focus on AI and scalable solutions will enable GrowthJockey to deliver world-class digital transformations and incubate high-value corporate ventures,” said GrowthJockey’s CTO, Aresh Mishra. “We are excited to have him lead the next chapter of our growth as we continue to empower businesses through innovative technology and venture incubation.”

    Expressing excitement about his new role, Kumar said, “I am excited to be part of GrowthJockey at such a crucial time in the industry. The pace of technological innovation is creating new opportunities, and GrowthJockey is uniquely positioned to lead this charge. I look forward to working with the team to drive our vision of creating bold and innovative ventures that impact businesses across industries.”

    GrowthJockey’s CEO, Ashutosh Kumar added, “We are excited to have Mrinal join our leadership team. His wealth of experience and leadership in technology will be invaluable as we continue to scale and innovate in the venture architecture space. Mrinal’s ability to blend strategic vision with execution will undoubtedly help us accelerate the pace at which we deliver transformative solutions for our clients.”

  • Flipkart’s quirky new campaigns add humor to India’s shopping frenzy

    Flipkart’s quirky new campaigns add humor to India’s shopping frenzy

    Mumbai: Ahead of the Big Billion Day sale, Flipkart has launched two campaigns, ‘Math of the Big Billion Days’ and ‘Big Billion Days Cover Up’. Conceptualised by the DDB Mudra Group – these hilarious and tongue-in-cheek films showcase how Indians love maximizing value – by finding the best deals, getting more for less, and feeling proud of every rupee saved.

    Flipkart head – marketing & media Pratik Shetty said, “Flipkart’s Big Billion Days is all about celebrating the joy of finding great deals and savings. Campaigns like ‘Math of Big Billion Days’ and ‘Big Billion Days Cover Up’, are a fun take on the many effects and side effects of unlocking great deals on Flipkart.”

    ‘Math of Big Billion Days’ is anover-the-top way atshowing how massive the savings are on Flipkart Big Billion Days. The film introduces a family of three and a spiritedmath professor, reminiscent of those strict but endearing teachers we all had in school. The son hilariously ropes in the eccentric professor to make his father aware of the benefits of shopping during Big Billion Days. As the professor walks the family through larger-than-life scenarios, the dad finally sees the light, Big Billion Days offers the best savings.The campaign extends to outdoor linking it tomathofbigbilliondays.comwhere consumerscan shop and explore just how far their savings could go if invested.

    DDB Mudra group creative director Sourabh Dubey said, “Flipkart’s Big Billion Days is at a stage where it needs no introduction. People already have it on their calendars, and all it needs is a quirky reminder to keep it top-of-mind during the sale period. So, we created ‘The Math of Big Billion Day’, an unrealistic formula about what your current savings might lead to in the future. While the future-facing part of the idea is absurd and humorous, it still reinforces the message that you’ll save a lot.”

    The second campaign, Big Billion Days Cover Up Coupon, is a scenario from every typical Indian household where no matter how smart you are with your purchases, there’s always a taana (barb) waiting for you at home: “Sale pe haitoh puri dukaankhareed loge kya?” (Just because it’s a sale, will you buy the entire store?). Enter Flipkart’s “Big Billion Day Cover-Up Coupons.”

    DDB Mudra group creative directors Gagandeep Bindra & Rahul Arcot shared, “No parents, in the history of Indian parents, has ever looked at a sale, and said, go ahead, shop as much as you want. Instead, our delivery boxes are met with truckloads of taanas. So, to help Indians scratch that shopping itch, we’ve created Cover-up Coupons, a series of legit-looking, but fake scratch and win cards that let you pretend you’ve won everything you’ve bought. And help you go taana-free during our biggest sale of the year.”

  • Zomato pays tribute to Kolkata’s street food vendors during Durga Puja

    Zomato pays tribute to Kolkata’s street food vendors during Durga Puja

    Mumbai: To celebrate India’s vibrant food tradition during the auspicious occasion of Durga Puja, Zomato has launched a campaign to pay homage to Kolkata’s street food vendors. This campaign aims to honor the unsung culinary heroes behind Kolkata’s beloved street food, especially during Durga Puja, when the city streets come alive with flavors that embody the spirit of community and celebration.

    Recognising that many beloved local food vendors remain undiscovered on delivery platforms like Zomato, the brand has taken a creative approach to spotlight them. At Street Number 104, Action Area 1B, Newtown, Kolkata (700156), Zomato has unveiled a 300-meter-long Alpana—a traditional Bengali folk art form. This grand artwork reflects the region’s cultural identity and highlights the importance of celebrating the city’s cherished culinary delights, even those not yet on delivery platforms. Co-created with local artisans, the meticulously and thoughtfully crafted artwork showcases the names and locations of some of the city’s most iconic street food vendors, making it easier than ever for food enthusiasts to seek out and savor their delectable offerings.

    “This campaign is our tribute to Kolkata’s iconic street vendors who are not necessarily on Zomato platform at the moment but are a key part of the city’s cultural fabric.” said Zomato marketing head Sahibjeet Singh.

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Zomato (@zomato)

     

  • Sunfeast Marie Light and Jyotika inspire equality with ‘Strong Team Nameplate’

    Sunfeast Marie Light and Jyotika inspire equality with ‘Strong Team Nameplate’

    Mumbai: Sunfeast Marie Light, in collaboration with celebrated actress Jyotika, launches a heartwarming campaign aimed at encouraging couples to celebrate equality through a simple yet powerful gesture-displaying both partners’ names on their house nameplates. The initiative brings attention to the importance of shared recognition, starting at home.

    A survey conducted by Sunfeast Marie Light reveals that two-thirds of households still don’t have both partners’ names on their nameplates. The brand is urging consumers to take action by visiting MarieLightStrongTeam.com and pledging to the cause. For those lacking dual-name nameplates, Sunfeast Marie Light is offering personalised designs to make this change happen.

    Biscuits & Cakes Business of ITC Limited’s Foods Division, chief operating officer, Ali Harris Shere explained the brand’s vision: “Sunfeast Marie Light champions the idea of a strong team in every household. In a relationship, both partners play an equal role in strengthening the bond. More often than not, it is the light moments spent with each other that strengthen the bond between husband and wife. With this initiative, we are pushing this idea further and attempting to bring about a change in the society. Having both husband and wife’s name on the nameplate is perhaps a small gesture, but speaks volumes of the shared partnership.”  

    Sunfeast Marie Light, brand ambassador, Jyotika echoed this sentiment, stating, “I firmly believe that equality begins at home. Displaying both partners’ names on the nameplate may seem like a small gesture, but it represents a larger commitment to equality in relationship. I know first-hand the impact it can have on one’s self-worth and relationships. Together, we can create a more supportive society, one nameplate at a time.”

    In the campaign’s latest ad, Senthil surprises Jyotika with a new nameplate that displays both of their names, symbolising their equal partnership. The ad closes with Jyotika urging viewers to embrace this change by having both partners’ names on their own nameplates.

    To further engage consumers, Sunfeast Marie Light has launched the ‘Strong Team Nameplate’ contest. Couples can post a picture of their dual-name nameplate and share what makes them a strong team and the ones’ with the most compelling answer can win a romantic trip to Switzerland.

  • Asian Paints launches ‘Pragati Ke Rang’ with YouTube creators

    Asian Paints launches ‘Pragati Ke Rang’ with YouTube creators

    Mumbai: Asian Paints has unveiled ‘Pragati Ke Rang’, an inspiring content series that captures the essence of progress in rural India, aligning with the mission of NeoBharat latex paint. This series features transformative stories of YouTube creators and individuals from small towns, showcasing how they’ve contributed to India’s progress while using NeoBharat Paint to brighten community spaces.

    The series spotlights three YouTube creators who have made a real impact in their communities. Fitness creator Ankit Baiyanpuria, a National Creators Award winner from Sonipat, revitalises a local akhada with NeoBharat Paints, infusing vibrant murals that represent the dreams of young wrestlers. The second episode features Rajesh Rawani, a truck driver from Jamtara, who transforms a popular dhaba on NH-33 into a vibrant symbol of comfort and progress for truck drivers. Lastly, the third episode showcases Santosh Jadhav, known as Indian Farmer, revolutionising agriculture in Sangli by introducing modern farming practices and celebrating tech-savvy farmers through murals at the local Agricultural Produce Market Committee.

    Asian Paints MD and CEO, Amit Syngle commented on the series, saying, “At Asian Paints, we are dedicated to fostering growth and progress across India. Our value-offering, Asian Paints NeoBharat has been an ode to the millions of Indians who are in pursuit of a better life. With NeoBharat we expanded our footprint wider & democratised the category further. Our new content series, ‘Asian Paints Pragati Ke Rang,’ highlights the inspiring journeys of individuals from small towns who are shaping their futures & adding to the progress of India. This vision closely aligns with NeoBharat, our Latex Paint designed to offer an affordable solution for creating beautiful homes & spaces. Through these compelling stories, we hope to spark aspirations by bringing alive these inspiring stories of India. Our goal is to turn every space into a symbol of progress, empowering people and communities throughout the country.”

    The series, created in collaboration with Monk Entertainment and Next Narrative, reflects a collective commitment to uplifting rural India. Monk Entertainment CEO and co-founder, Viraj Sheth shared his enthusiasm, “We are thrilled to partner with Asian Paints on such a meaningful project. ‘Pragati Ke Rang’ is not just a show but a movement that reflects our shared commitment to creating content that drives real change. By collaborating with creators like Ankit Baiyanpuria and R Rajesh who resonate deeply with rural audiences, we’re able to bring forward stories that inspire and uplift while also showcasing the superior quality of Asian Paints NeoBharat.”

    Adding to this, Next Narrative’s founder, Mohit Jagtiani said, “YouTube serves as a vast and inclusive platform where creators can connect with their audiences in a genuine and impactful way. This rural content IP transcends traditional advertising; it’s about creating a show for Asian Paints from the ground up while simultaneously transforming community spaces in rural India. We are honoured to be part of this journey, contributing to meaningful progress, and fostering authentic connections.”

    This 3-part series not only celebrates NeoBharat latex paint’s superior quality but also reinforces the impact of colour in transforming spaces, lives, and communities. As it unfolds, ‘Pragati Ke Rang’ aims to inspire rural audiences and paint a brighter future for all.

  • Pepsi unveils its new logo with street art murals in Sri Lanka

    Pepsi unveils its new logo with street art murals in Sri Lanka

    Mumbai: Honouring its 125-year-long legacy, Pepsi, a brand that has been at the centre of global pop culture, unveiled its new identity in Sri Lanka today through its groundbreaking campaign, ‘Pepsi Street Kala’. The Pepsi Street Kala campaign represents a groundbreaking moment for the brand, introducing its revamped brand identity through public art for the first time globally. With 17 murals featured across the country, this initiative is an attempt to democratize art through dynamic experiences that invite public interaction and make art and culture more accessible.

    Pepsi celebrated this milestone with a spectacular launch event at the iconic Lotus Tower – South Asia’s tallest self-supported tower. The event brought its bold identity to life through immersive experiences, captivating the audience from start to finish. Media, influencers and individuals from the art community in Sri Lanka enjoyed a sensory feast, with the aura of Pepsi resonating throughout, showcasing the brand’s vibrant spirit. The highlight of the evening was the illumination of the Lotus Tower in Colombo with Pepsi’s new bold colours, transforming the city’s skyline.

    Speaking on the launch, PepsiCo associate director, area-countries region Anuj Goyal said, “Pepsi has consistently been at the forefront of youth culture and with this initiative, we are extending that dedication to the streets of Sri Lanka. The new Pepsi logo represents a bold new chapter for Pepsi, bringing it to life through street art with the ‘Pepsi® Street Kala’ campaign – enabling us to expand the horizons of visual narrative. The grand launch event, including the striking projection of our brand colours at the iconic Lotus Tower and the murals altogether, are a celebration of youth, creativity, and the spirit of Pepsi.”

    Talking about the murals, PepsiCo India & South Asia head of design Tanu Sinha said, “The ‘Pepsi Street Kala’ campaign is a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and the passions of the youth of Sri Lanka. Each mural was carefully designed to reflect the new brand identity while staying true to the unique ethos of Sri Lanka. We wanted to create artworks that not only capture the new logo of Pepsi but also democratize art and resonate with the audience, making each piece a symbol of shared creativity and connection.”

    Also commenting on the launch, Varun Beverages – Sri Lanka country head Sandeep Kumar also added, “We are excited to bring the ‘Pepsi® Street Kala’ campaign to life in Sri Lanka, showcasing the refreshed brand identity of Pepsi. This campaign and today’s event celebrate creativity, culture, and the unbreakable bond Pepsi shares with the people of Sri Lanka. We’re proud to be part of this milestone that reflects the vibrant energy of Pepsi consumers while integrating public art experiences in their routine commute.”

    Flagship streets across Sri Lanka are featuring vibrant murals that celebrate Pepsi®’s refreshed identity and bold new logo. Strategically placed at iconic locations such as the Sri Lanka Tennis Association, Nawala, Welisara, and the railways stations at Kollupitiya, Wellawatte Rathmalana, and Bambalapitiya, the murals have become popular selfie spots for locals and travellers. These visually immersive artworks are renditions of how artists see Pepsi connecting with Sri Lanka’s youth, highlighting themes like food, music, dance, culture, and sports.

    Pepsi has brought together an eclectic mix of 90 budding artists, who have infused their creativity into this campaign. These talented individuals have helped create vibrant murals that reflect the boldness of Pepsi while celebrating Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Their month-long hard work now reflects on more than 8,000 square feet, showcasing a dynamic fusion of food, music, lifestyle, and sports—key elements that resonate with the country’s youth and make Pepsi® a brand that speaks to the heart of their experiences.

    The murals from the ‘Pepsi Street Kala’ campaign, will be on display for a limited period, offering both the public and tourists a chance to engage with the brand in a completely new way. Follow #PepsiStreetKala online to know more.

  • Manyavar unveils ‘Aap Kab Ban Rahe Hain Manyavar?’ campaign

    Manyavar unveils ‘Aap Kab Ban Rahe Hain Manyavar?’ campaign

    Mumbai: Manyavar, Indian brand in men’s wedding wear, has launched its new campaign, ‘Aap Kab Ban Rahe Hain Manyavar?’. This campaign highlights the groom’s journey from boyhood to manhood, asking prospective grooms when they will become Manyavar.

    Shifting focus to grooms and their squads, Manyavar connects with today’s generation, making their journey to the big day memorable. The campaign emphasizes the groom’s style and emotional evolution as he embraces marriage, showcasing Manyavar’s wedding wear that blends tradition and craftsmanship.

    Through impactful moments, such as surprising friends with his appearance and forming emotional connections with his bride and mother-in-law, the campaign encourages viewers to reflect on when a man truly becomes a Manyavar.

     

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Manyavar (@manyavar)

     

    Speaking about the campaign, Vedant Fashions chief revenue officer Vedant Modi said, “This campaign introduces a new heartfelt narrative for the brand, where being a Manyavar goes beyond wearing a sherwani—it’s about embracing thoughtfulness, responsibility, love, and respect. ‘Aap Kab Ban Rahe Hain Manyavar?’ invites grooms to reflect on their journey as they evolve into a new role and stage of their lives. Manyavar has always celebrated the various aspects of a wedding and the emotions that accompany it. With our new brand narrative, Manyavar reflects a man’s character, seamlessly blending style with authenticity while highlighting the meaningful journey of the groom on this special day.”

    The new campaign film has been conceptualised by –McCann Worldgroup India. McCann Worldgroup India chief creative officer Prasoon Joshi said, “This campaign uncovers the groom’s untold story- quite under explored in advertising. As he takes the leap, priorities shift, and perspectives change. This campaign lightheartedly explores a man’s transformation, revealing it through humorous and heartfelt moments of self-discovery on his journey to marriage.”

    The campaign beautifully captures the journey of a boy becoming a groom, inviting him to embrace and enjoy this exciting transformation with the question, “Aap kab ban rahe hain Manyavar?”

    Manyavar is solidifying its presence in the wedding industry. The brand also offers added conveniences such as video call appointments through its website. Additionally, customers in select cities can benefit from in-store personalized styling, making the shopping experience even more tailored and accessible.

  • Crocs builds on to the Indian festive fervour with its latest campaign

    Crocs builds on to the Indian festive fervour with its latest campaign

    Mumbai: Crocs, the global footwear icon known for its unmatched comfort and style, joyfully embraces the festive spirit with the launch of its ‘Share the Joy’ campaign, featuring rising Bollywood stars and #CrocsSquad members Vedang Raina and Rasha Thadani. Rooted in the festive spirit of togetherness and celebration, the campaign captures the magic of the season through a vibrant lens, blending the warmth of friendships, the excitement of traditions, and the joy of personal expression through Crocs and Jibbitz charms. By infusing festive moments with a bold, fresh take on fashion, Crocs invites everyone to step into the season with style, individuality, and boundless joy.

    In the campaign’s lively hero video, the cast lights up a festive house party with stylish fit checks, playful moments, spontaneous selfies and endless celebrations. Set to the catchy beats of “Gulzar” by Natania featuring Subhi, the video fuses tradition with spontaneity, encouraging everyone to embrace the essence of the season. Gen Z influencers like Riya Kohli, Pratiksha Shetty, and Joan Rai further amplify the festive joy, pairing Crocs and their unique Jibbitz with effortless charm, and proving that Crocs can elevate any style—whether it’s Indo-Western or traditional. This campaign captures the heart of the brand—bold, expressive, and full of spirit—reminding everyone that the festive season is about sharing moments, laughter, and personal style in a way that feels true to who you are.

    Crocs ROW & Hey Dude International marketing vice president Yann Le Bozec shared: “The festive season is such a special time in India- a wonderful celebration and an incredible expression of people’s joy, individuality, and connection. With our ‘Share the Joy’ campaign, we’re pushing the boundaries of festive fashion by encouraging audiences to playfully experiment, elevate and embrace their authentic style with Crocs. Our goal is to show how versatile Crocs can be, adding instant style and comfort to any outfit. With the addition of our Jibbitz™ charms, we aim to inspire others to create their vibrant looks while capturing the true spirit of celebration and self-expression.”

    Conceptualised and produced by Kulfi Collective, the campaign film is bold, fun, and full of personality- it seamlessly blends the familial charm with a youthful, energetic vibe, and embodies everything that makes Crocs unique.

    Kulfi Collective co-founder and chief creative officer Akshat Gupt said, “We wanted to capture the essence of the festive season in a way that celebrates both the warmth of tradition and the excitement of modern self-expression. The ‘Share the Joy’ campaign captures all this magic and fun while keeping the youthful and bold spirit of Crocs at its heart. We’re excited to have collaborated with Crocs again to showcase the brand as the ultimate accessory to express one’s unique style.”

    Having gone live on 9 October 2024, Crocs’ ‘Share the Joy’ campaign has been brought to life via an integrated campaign across social, digital, Retail and e-commerce channels.

    Crocs India encourages everyone to share their unfiltered festive moments using #ShareTheJoy and #FestiveWithCrocs.