Category: MAM

  • Mother Sparsh brings grandma’s secrets back in vogue with #RecreateRituals campaign

    Mother Sparsh brings grandma’s secrets back in vogue with #RecreateRituals campaign

    MUMBAI: Mother knows best, but grandma might have said it first. In a nostalgic-yet-modern digital push, Mother Sparsh has launched #RecreateRituals, a campaign that champions age-old Indian baby care practices, reimagined for today’s millennial mum.

    At the heart of the campaign is Mother Sparsh’s Milky Soft Baby Care Range, infused with the age-old goodness of milk and coconut oil, ingredients Indian families have trusted for generations. Running in three interactive phases, the month-long digital blitz features polls, carousels, and influencer-led storytelling, all culminating in an emotional photo-sharing moment celebrating the timeless bond between grandparents and their tiny descendants.

    Mother Sparsh CEO & co-founder Himanshi Gandhi spoke about the vision behind the campaign: “Through the #RecreateRituals campaign, we wish to bring back the time-tested solutions that our grandmothers used for little children. While many scoff at them as redundant, time stands testament to the fact that a wise grandmother has always solved all of the baby-related problems for a new mother. Thus, we are celebrating this bond with mothers and creating awareness by providing them a solution to take care of their baby’s sensitive skin.”

  • WPP Media and Indriya turn cinema ceilings into starry runways with ‘Aasmaniyat’

    WPP Media and Indriya turn cinema ceilings into starry runways with ‘Aasmaniyat’

    MUMBAI: Who said the sky’s the limit? WPP Media has gone above and beyond, quite literally, with a category-busting cinema ceiling activation to launch Indriya’s new diamond collection, Aasmaniyat, for Aditya Birla Jewellery.

    In a dazzling first, theatre-goers in Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad were treated to an overhead spectacle as cinema ceilings shimmered with celestial visuals synced to Indriya’s brand film. The campaign, timed during high-traffic screenings of Sitare Zameen Pe, was conceptualised and executed by WPP Media’s OOH Solutions and Mindshare teams, transforming auditoriums into immersive jewel boxes.

    By cleverly aligning the star-studded theme of the film with its own constellation-inspired collection, Indriya delivered an unforgettable “look up and wow” moment, a bold departure from standard screen-only storytelling.

    Part of a 360-degree media blitz that spans cinema, OOH, TV, and print, the campaign is set to run until early August, aiming to drive top-of-mind recall and emotional resonance for the brand.

    WPP Media South Asia, client solutions, Amin Lakhani said, “This campaign shows how media can evolve when creativity, insight, and technology unite. We are constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in brand storytelling, not just reaching audiences but moving them. The ‘Aasmaniyat’ activation for Indriya reflects our focus on innovation that is bold, memorable, and drives results. It’s about creating moments that matter, where media becomes a stage for emotion and impact.”

    “As media consumption patterns evolve, the role of OOH has expanded from visibility to immersive storytelling. This campaign is a defining example of how we can reimagine traditional spaces like cinema halls into high-impact brand experiences. Our focus is on innovation that captures attention, creates emotional resonance, and drives measurable value. The cinema activation is not just a media first, it’s a category-defining moment that showcases what’s possible when creativity meets contextual intelligence.” said WPP Media head of media solutions, Ajay Mehta.

    Indriya CMO Shantiswarup Panda added, “For the first time in the industry, a brand has leveraged the immersive power of cinema to connect with a broader audience in a truly innovative way. Inspired by the vast, mysterious beauty of the cosmos, Aasmaniyat captures celestial elegance through exquisitely crafted diamond pieces that sparkle like constellations in the night sky. And what better stage for this brilliance than a darkened cinema hall, where Indriya’s diamonds shimmer and illuminate the ceiling with every frame.”

    With Aasmaniyat, Indriya isn’t just launching jewellery, it’s elevating the very stage on which it sparkles. And thanks to WPP Media’s innovation, the sky is not the limit, it’s the canvas.

  • Opptra names Afshan Banu as CEO – fashion and beauty

    Opptra names Afshan Banu as CEO – fashion and beauty

    MUMBAI: Opptra, the AI-powered omnichannel platform helping consumer brands scale into Asia, has appointed Afshan Banu as chief executive officer – fashion and beauty, bringing on board a heavyweight with over three decades of retail and digital expertise.

    Banu, whose career spans iconic names like Nike, Victoria’s Secret, GAP, Triumph and Lazada, will lead Opptra’s expansion strategy for fashion and beauty verticals, turbocharging digital transformation and franchise-led growth for international labels eyeing Asian markets.

    At Nike, she served as senior director for e-commerce across Southeast Asia and India, playing a crucial role in building Nike.com, the Nike App, SNKRS, and its marketplace muscle. Her previous stints at Lazada and Victoria’s Secret saw her drive brand development, strategic partnerships, and regional profitability in high-growth segments.

    Opptra’s co-founder called her appointment “a shot of adrenaline” for its global ambitions. With deep expertise across brick-and-mortar, e-commerce and digital ecosystems, Banu’s mandate is clear — bring the world’s best brands to Asia, faster and smarter.

    Commenting on her appointment at Opptra CEO – fashion and Beauty, Afshan Banu said, “I am excited to join Opptra at a time when the omnichannel experience is becoming more important. As global commerce continues to grow, Opptra’s digital-first technology and strong product solutions are well-positioned to provide the best experiences, both online and offline for consumers. We aim to help brands overcome infrastructure, regulatory, and cultural challenges by creating the world’s most innovative international expansion franchise model for brands.”

    As beauty and fashion brands battle for scale in a fragmented retail landscape, Opptra’s AI-led omnichannel playbook, now helmed by a leader with proven mettle — could be the edge they need.

  • iCubesWire ropes in Shashank B. V. to lead influencer content sales in the South

    iCubesWire ropes in Shashank B. V. to lead influencer content sales in the South

    MUMBAI: iCubesWire has brought back a familiar face to fuel its southern ambitions. Shashank B. V. has been appointed business director – sales (South) to lead content sales for influencer marketing, with a laser focus on hyperlocal, creator-first storytelling that delivers both scale and substance.

    Shashank, a digital veteran with over 20 years of experience, is no stranger to iCubesWire. His previous stint as group head, South, saw him lay the groundwork for the company’s growth in the region. Now, with influencer marketing entering a high-stakes era of ROI and relevance, Shashank’s brief is clear — connect brands with communities, not just clicks.

    From past leadership roles at Hungama Digital Services, Times Internet, and Tyroo Media, he brings a sharp understanding of branded content and digital sales, with a network that straddles both blue-chip advertisers and fast-rising D2C disruptors.

    Reporting to Nishant Sharma, co-founder and chief business officer at iCubesWire, Shashank will drive native integrations, performance-led influencer strategy, and multilingual content monetisation, all part of the agency’s aggressive push into the southern market.

    As brands double down on creator commerce and culturally-rooted campaigns, iCubesWire is positioning itself as the go-to MarTech ally for brands looking to translate influence into impact and Shashank is back at the helm to make sure the story sticks.

  • Samsung Ads and Kantar reveal sharp uptick in purchase intent from big-screen ads

    Samsung Ads and Kantar reveal sharp uptick in purchase intent from big-screen ads

    MUMBAI: Samsung Ads, in partnership with Kantar, has unveiled a revealing new white paper titled ‘Beyond Awareness’, which lays bare the rising clout of Connected TV (CTV) as a performance-driven advertising channel.

    The study, based on over 100 brand lift studies across Samsung Smart TVs, shows that Gen Z viewers, often written off as ad-averse, are in fact proving to be highly engaged and responsive on the big screen. In fact, brand favorability jumped by 9.1 per cent, while purchase intent surged by 8.5 per cent among 18–24-year-olds exposed to ads on CTV.

    The findings challenge long-held assumptions about upper-funnel fluff, revealing that CTV is driving real business impact across the funnel from awareness to action.

    Sharing her insights, Samsung Ads India head, insights and client solutions, Bhavna Saincher said, “The ‘Beyond Awareness’ study emphasises the growing importance of Connected TVs as a pivotal touch point for driving awareness and consideration, all while amplifying visibility and generating positive outcomes for brands engaging with their audience on the big screen. I am confident that the high engagement of the Gen Z signals a major opportunity for brands seeking impact with a digitally-native, decision-ready audience.”

    Among the standout stats:

    . 7.9 per cent average uplift in consideration across verticals from auto to apparel, tech to home solutions.

    . Twice the impact when audiences are reached four or more times, making a strong case for strategic frequency.

    . Strong performance across age groups from Gen Z to the 35+ bracket – confirming CTV’s broad appeal.

    With CTV ad engagement soaring and ROI metrics now in full view, Samsung and Kantar’s report doesn’t just hint at the future of TV advertising, it spells it out: performance lives on the big screen.

     

  • Bipasha, Sania and Ravi Kishan front Protinex’s new campaign

    Bipasha, Sania and Ravi Kishan front Protinex’s new campaign

    MUMBAI: In a fresh digital blitz, Danone India’s nutrition heavyweight Protinex has enlisted a trio of household names — Bipasha Basu, Sania Mirza, and Ravi Kishan, to spotlight one of India’s quietest health crises: the daily protein gap.

    With over 70 per cent of Indian adults failing to meet their protein needs and 90 per cent unaware of it, Protinex’s latest campaign cuts through the noise with slice-of-life moments that hit close to home. From Bipasha balancing shoots and wellness, to Sania navigating motherhood with self-care, and Ravi Kishan sounding the alarm on counterfeit nutrition, each narrative champions authentic, informed choices in a world buzzing with quick fixes.

    Wrapped in relatable storytelling and by the brand’s 65-year-old legacy, the campaign nudges Indians to stop sleepwalking through their diets and start reading the fine print, especially when it comes to protein.

    More than just a star-powered health plug, the campaign aligns with Danone’s global mission to democratise health through food. With a sharp focus on authenticity, accessibility, and awareness, Protinex is doubling down on its promise to make protein-packed living an everyday, no-fuss habit across Indian households.

    Because when it comes to health, shortcuts don’t cut it and protein isn’t optional, it’s essential.

  • VIP gets a Multiples makeover as Piramal family packs up stake

    VIP gets a Multiples makeover as Piramal family packs up stake

    MUMBAI: After decades at the top of the luggage chain, VIP Industries is zipping into a new era. In a strategic shake-up that marks the end of an era and the start of a fresh chapter, the Piramal family has signed a definitive agreement to offload up to 32 per cent of its stake in VIP Industries to a consortium led by Multiples Private Equity. The deal will see control of Asia’s largest luggage maker shift to the new investors, triggering a mandatory open offer worth a whopping Rs 1,437.78 crore for an additional 26 per cent stake at Rs 388 per share.

    While the sale hands over the reins, it’s not a full goodbye, the Piramal family will remain shareholders, with Dilip Piramal stepping into the role of chairman emeritus. “This is a pivotal moment for VIP. With Multiples stepping in, we’re setting the wheels in motion to reclaim our leadership in the Indian luggage market,” said Piramal.

    Multiples, known for backing big-name disruptors like Delhivery, Licious, and Dream Sports, now adds another heavyweight to its portfolio. “We see enormous potential in VIP’s legacy and brand value,” said Multiples founder and CEO Renuka Ramnath. “This is not just a transaction, it’s a transformation play.”

    As per the open offer filing, Multiples and co-investors including Samvibhag Securities, Mithun and Siddhartha Sacheti, will collectively acquire up to 4.54 crore shares, translating to a 31.89 per cent stake. If fully subscribed, the open offer alone could cost them over Rs 1,437 crore in cash.

    The deal values VIP Industries at more than Rs 5,500 crore and includes a shareholder agreement that allows Multiples to take over management control. It is subject to approval from the Competition Commission of India and will be executed in line with SEBI’s takeover code. Legal advisors on the deal include AZB & Partners for the Piramal family, and Khaitan & Co for Multiples.

    Founded in 1971, VIP Industries has sold over 100 million pieces of luggage and commands a presence in 45 countries. Its brands VIP, Skybags, Carlton, Aristocrat, and Caprese are household names. But the past few years haven’t been baggage-free, with stiff competition and changing travel habits weighing down growth.

    This strategic sale could help VIP travel light again. With Multiples now in the driving seat and a fresh burst of private equity fuel, the legacy brand is gearing up for its next long-haul flight.

  • Aviva launches savings plus life cover plan for rural and small-town India

    Aviva launches savings plus life cover plan for rural and small-town India

     MUMBAI: In a world where aspirations are rising faster than premiums, Aviva India is scripting a small-town success story with its latest insurance offering. Aviva India has launched Aviva Bharat Bal Vikas Yojana, a life insurance savings plan tailored for families in India’s rural and semi-urban markets. With premiums starting at just Rs 1,000 per month, the plan aims to provide both financial protection and a secure path to children’s dreams whether that’s a college degree, a vocational course, or a business of their own.

    Designed with flexibility and simplicity in mind, the non-linked, non-participating policy offers guaranteed maturity benefits and life cover. The entry age starts at 3 years, extending up to 50, with terms ranging from 12 to 30 years. Policyholders can pay premiums monthly, quarterly, half-yearly or annually, making it adaptable for diverse household budgets. The maturity age goes up to 80 years.

    If the life insured passes away during the term, the nominee receives the highest of:

    . The Death Sum Assured

    . The surrender value (either Guaranteed or Special Surrender Value)

    . A minimum of 105 per cent of total premiums paid

    Aviva India, chief marketing officer, Vinit Kapahi noted, “This isn’t just another insurance product, it’s a bridge to ambition for families beyond metro cities. Aviva Bharat Bal Vikas Yojana is for parents who dream big for their children but don’t want to get lost in complicated financial jargon.”

    The plan also offers guaranteed lump sum benefits upon maturity and comes with tax perks under prevailing laws making it not only emotionally reassuring but financially rewarding.

    While urban India is spoilt for choice when it comes to financial tools, Aviva Bharat Bal Vikas Yojana is a welcome step in democratising protection and savings. It reflects the insurer’s push for financial inclusion by targeting the heart of Bharat where every rupee counts and every dream matters.

  • Trilok plugs into brand love

    Trilok plugs into brand love

    MUMBAI: Move over boy bands, make way for bot bands. Trilok, India’s first AI-powered rock group, is tuning up the cultural charts and now brands are singing along.

    After grabbing eyeballs with its debut single Achyutam Keshavam, the band has found unlikely but exciting backers in boAt, Rowdy Club, and now, Magic Moments Music Studio, the latter launching a fresh series titled Magic Moment of the Month, an intimate, behind-the-scenes peek into the band’s surreal, stylised world.

    While boAt co-founder Aman Gupta has publicly lauded the project and Rowdy Club is leaning into the visual cool of Trilok’s mask-heavy aesthetic, Magic Moments is adding some heart to the hardware, capturing the band’s jam sessions, rehearsal-room rambles, fan shout-outs, and quieter reflections between the noise. Think sleek, bottle-inspired visuals with an AI-soul twist.

    “Magic Moments Music Studio has always celebrated expression, musical connection, nostalgia and the joy that comes from shared experiences. Collaborating with Trilok felt like a natural next step — it’s fresh, it’s bold, and it’s tapping into something culturally deep while also experimenting with the future. We believe in the power of new formats to spark new emotions, and Trilok is doing exactly that. This partnership is about capturing those real, in-between moments — where the magic actually happens,” said Radico Khaitan Ltd COO Amar Sinha.

    Born from Collective’s AI innovation lab, the folks behind digital personas Kavya Mehra and Radhika Subramaniam, Trilok is no moodboard mood music. It’s built to perform, provoke, and be playlisted, a full-bodied AI act with its own lore, lyricism, and layered persona-driven storytelling.

    Part myth, part machine, and full-on GenZ bait, Trilok blends human creativity with algorithmic power to deliver audio-visual drops that are as memorable as they are mosh-pit ready. And with a debut album on the way, the buzz is only getting louder.

    From digital dazzle to brand deals, this AI band isn’t just making music, it’s making marketing history.

  • Home truths hit hard as sales dip 14 percent in top 8 Indian cities

    Home truths hit hard as sales dip 14 percent in top 8 Indian cities

    MUMBAI: Looks like the summer wasn’t just hot outside India’s housing market felt the burn too. India’s eight biggest housing markets hit a bit of a speed bump in Q2 2025, with home sales dropping 14 per cent year-on-year, according to the latest Real Insight Residential report by Proptiger.com. The slowdown is largely attributed to affordability concerns, which nudged many buyers into pause mode.

    The dip was particularly sharp in Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), down a hefty 32 per cent, and Pune, which saw a 27 per cent decline. But it wasn’t all doom and gloom cities like Bengaluru (+16 per cent), Chennai (+33 per cent), and Kolkata (+19 per cent) bucked the trend, showing that not every buyer had cold feet.

    On a quarter-on-quarter basis, sales across the board stayed flat with 97,674 units sold, as per Proptiger, which is part of REA India (also the parent of Housing.com). MMR, Pune and Bengaluru collectively accounted for 59 per cent of the total quarterly sales.

    “This short-term dip is more of a recalibration than a retreat,” said Proptiger.com head of sales Sridhar Srinivasan. “Yes, affordability is squeezing budget buyers, but demand is intact, and developers are clearly still bullish especially in the premium segment.”

    Supply-side sentiment mirrored the demand softening, with new launches falling 10 per cent QoQ and 17 per cent YoY. Mumbai (-43 per cent), Pune (-39 per cent) and Bangalore (-2 per cent) all saw dips, while Chennai and Hyderabad posted impressive gains (+64 per cent and +69 per cent, respectively). Kolkata saw a 192 per cenrt surge—albeit from a very low base.

    Interestingly, the report points out that geopolitical tensions (read: India-Pakistan skirmishes) also dented buyer sentiment during the April–June period, causing many to adopt a wait-and-watch stance.

    City Sales YoY Change Launches YoY Change
    Mumbai -32% -43%
    Pune -27% -39%
    Bangalore +16% -2%
    Chennai +33% +64%
    Kolkata +19% +192%
    NCR -9% +29%

    Despite the turbulence, Proptiger notes that the long-term market outlook remains upbeat, buoyed by solid macro fundamentals and continued developer interest, especially in premium and mid-income housing.

    So while this quarter may be slower than usual, it seems the foundation of India’s housing story is far from shaky. Just a little pause before the next big push.