Category: MAM

  • Curtain call: DTF returns with starry season 6

    Curtain call: DTF returns with starry season 6

    Delhi Theatre Festival, Alchemist Live, Prabhu Tony, Naseeruddin Shah, Anupam Kher, Lillete Dubey, Denzil Smith, Rajat Kapoor, Vinay Pathak, Makarand Deshpande, Kumud Mishra, Pankaj Kapur, American Express, M3M India, Siri Fort Auditorium, NCUI Auditorium, OP Jindal Auditorium, Aurum Conventions, Gurugram, Delhi NCR

    MUMBAI: Delhi’s drama scene is ready to steal the spotlight once again! The Delhi Theatre Festival (DTF) is back for its sixth season, promising a show-stopping celebration of storytelling, stagecraft, and star power. Set to unfold from 14th to 16th November, the festival will light up four iconic venues across Delhi NCR, Siri Fort Auditorium, NCUI Auditorium, OP Jindal Auditorium, and Aurum Conventions in Gurugram.

    With American Express returning as the title sponsor for the sixth consecutive year and M3M India powering the event, DTF Season 6 is shaping up to be a blockbuster on and off stage. American Express platinum card members even enjoyed an exclusive presale window and special savings on tickets, a fitting reward for loyal theatre buffs.

    This year’s lineup reads like a who’s who of Indian theatre royalty. Naseeruddin Shah returns with Einstein, Anupam Kher brings Kuch Bhi Ho Sakta Hai, and Lillete Dubey and Denzil Smith take the stage with Autobiography. Audiences can also look forward to Rajat Kapoor’s directorial Karamjale Brothers starring Vinay Pathak, Makarand Deshpande’s beloved Sir Sir Sarla, Kumud Mishra’s Dhumrapaan, and Pankaj Kapur’s Dreamz.

    “Over the past five seasons, DTF has grown from a city event into a cultural landmark,” said Alchemist Live CEO and co-founder Prabhu Tony. “With Season 6, we’re scaling up with premieres, legends, and new voices, all sharing one stage.”

    Echoing the sentiment, Naseeruddin Shah shared, “Every season brings a new energy and audience, that’s what keeps theatre alive.”

    With 12 plus shows and an expected 15,000-strong audience, DTF Season 6 is set to be the grandest edition yet. For Delhi’s theatre lovers, this November isn’t just about drama, it’s about centre stage, standing ovations, and a festival that promises to make every act count.

     

  • WPP Media’s ‘beyond price tags’ redefines India’s e-commerce game

    WPP Media’s ‘beyond price tags’ redefines India’s e-commerce game

    MUMBAI: Forget discounts and flash sales. India’s next e-commerce boom is getting a luxury makeover. WPP Media India has unveiled ‘Beyond Price Tags: The Power of Premiumization’ in India’s e-commerce boom, a new playbook that argues the future of online shopping is not just digital, but decisively premium.

    Launched in Mumbai, the report sheds light on how Indian consumers are moving beyond price wars and seeking something more lasting: experiences, personalisation, and ethics over mere affordability. The message is clear: value is being redefined.

    Drawing from insights by leading platforms, brands, and experts, the playbook highlights that premium demand is now democratised. Thanks to credit solutions, efficient delivery networks, and the rise of social and quick commerce, premium choices are no longer limited to metro buyers, they’re reaching the heart of Bharat.

    Among its key findings, the report identifies five defining shifts: the democratisation of premium demand; consumers’ appetite for elevated experiences; platform-driven brand reinvention; a cross-category tilt towards feature-rich, design-led products; and the evolution of mass brands into “masstige” offerings.

    To help brands turn insight into action, WPP Media introduces four strategic frameworks: Flash, Vista, Prime, and Rise, each designed to guide discoverability, curation, customer experience, and loyalty building in the digital era.

    “At WPP Media, we are constantly at the forefront of shaping the future of commerce,” said WPP Media South Asia COO Ashwin Padmanabhan. “The premiumization trend in Indian e-commerce is more than just a shift in price points, it reflects evolving consumer aspirations and the growing desire for quality, experience, and status.”

    Echoing this, WPP Media India head of commerce Sairam Ranganathan added, “Premiumization marks a pivotal shift where rising aspirations, global exposure, and digital empowerment are redefining how consumers engage with brands. This playbook is not just a guide but a catalyst for growth.”

     

  • Credit where it’s due as festive shoppers swipe big this Diwali

    Credit where it’s due as festive shoppers swipe big this Diwali

    MUMBAI: Looks like this Diwali, Indians didn’t just light up their homes, they swiped their way to sparkle too. A new survey by Paisabazaar reveals that over 42 per cent of credit card users spent upwards of Rs 50,000 on festive shopping this year, signalling that big-ticket buying is firmly back in fashion.

    The festive cheer wasn’t limited to diyas and discounts, it spread right across credit limits. About 22 per cent of respondents spent between Rs 50,000 and Rs 1 lakh, while one in five splurged over Rs 1 lakh on their cards during Diwali. The survey, which covered over 2,300 users, paints a clear picture of India’s growing comfort with credit as a strategic spending tool.

    When it came to what they bought, home appliances topped the wishlist at 25 per cent, followed by mobiles, gadgets and accessories at 23 per cent, and apparel at 22 per cent. Furniture and décor made up 18 per cent of spends, while gold and jewellery accounted for 12 per cent proof that both sparkle and substance drove shopping choices this season.

    But it wasn’t all impulse. The study revealed that 91 per cent of shoppers planned their purchases around card-specific offers and festive deals. Less than 10 per cent relied solely on their card’s standard cashback or reward structure. Clearly, today’s consumers are not just shopping, they’re strategising.

    “Consumers are using credit cards more intelligently, timing their high-value purchases with festive offers and card-linked deals,” said Paisabazaar CEO Santosh Agarwal. “This growing financial awareness shows how value and convenience are driving credit card use.”

    The benefits are paying off too. Nearly 71 per cent of respondents owned shopping-specific credit cards that offered cashback or festive rewards, while 15 per cent received seasonal deals even without such cards. For many, cashback remained the biggest draw chosen by 20 per cent of users followed closely by co-branded offers (19 per cent) and accelerated reward points (18 per cent).

    Among those opting for EMIs, No-Cost EMI emerged as the clear winner, attracting 56 per cent of users, while 29 per cent chose EMIs to unlock extra discounts and 10 per cent used them simply to spread payments more comfortably.

    Interestingly, shoppers were equally at home online and offline 48 per cent said they preferred a mix of both. The hunt for better deals drove most of them to e-commerce giants, with 83 per cent claiming they found the best discounts on platforms like Amazon and Flipkart. Together, the two dominated with a 43 per cent preference rate, followed by Myntra (15 per cent), Meesho (10 per cent), and other platforms such as Ajio, Nykaa, Zepto and Tata Cliq accounting for 32 per cent collectively.

    Paisabazaar, head of credit cards Rohit Chhibbar summed it up aptly: “This festive season marked the rise of the value-savvy shopper, one who plans, compares, and capitalises on every offer. Cashback, rewards, and no-cost EMIs have made credit cards indispensable for festive spending.”

    In short, this Diwali, shoppers didn’t just chase lights, they chased the right swipes.

     

  • Pedigree strikes the right note for pets this Diwali

    Pedigree strikes the right note for pets this Diwali

    MUMBAI: Now here’s a pawsitive tune-up for Diwali! India’s leading dog food brand  Pedigree, from Mars Petcare, has launched an AI-powered ‘Pawsome Playlist,’ a first-of-its-kind musical initiative designed to keep furry friends calm and relaxed amid the festive fireworks.

    Developed with inputs from veterinarian Jasleen Kaur, the playlist uses AI to generate soothing, rhythm-based tracks that help reduce canine anxiety. Hosted on Youtube, the Pawsome Playlist draws on scientific insights into how dogs respond to calming frequencies and consistent beats.

    “At Mars Petcare, we know pets do more than keep us company, they help us feel calm and connected,” said Mars Petcare India chief marketing officer Ayesha Huda. “This Diwali, we wanted to return that love by creating something that brings peace and comfort to them.”

    The campaign also comes with a touch of creativity from 22feet Tribal Worldwide, whose executive creative director Shyam Nair revealed that each AI-generated track, with witty titles like ‘Sugar? No Please.’ and ‘Wait for Wags.,’  was designed to soothe pets while gently reminding owners to show more empathy.

    Echoing the sentiment, Kaur added, “Music can profoundly influence animal behaviour. It’s wonderful to see technology being used so intuitively to improve pet wellbeing.”

    With Pawsome Playlist, Pedigree has found a way to mix compassion, technology and rhythm, proving that this Diwali, the sweetest sounds of all might just be a happy, wagging tail.

     

  • Thunderplus, Bijliride team up to power India’s EV charging network

    Thunderplus, Bijliride team up to power India’s EV charging network

    MUMBAI: If chai breaks could charge your scooter, India’s EV story just got its perfect plug. Thunderplus, the country’s fastest-growing EV charging network, has teamed up with Bijliride, a SaaS-powered electric two-wheeler rental platform, to supercharge urban mobility with a partnership that’s equal parts speed, sustainability, and smarts.

    The alliance aims to zap away India’s biggest EV worries, range anxiety and charging delays by integrating battery-swapping and fast-charging services across all 250 plus Thunderplus hubs. Think of it as the digital-age pit stop for everyone from gig workers on the go to students zipping through city traffic.

    Under this collaboration, every Thunderplus hub will now feature BijliRide battery-swapping machines, allowing users to swap batteries in seconds instead of waiting for hours. For those who’d rather top up than swap out, there’s the new “Thunder Tej” 12 kW LEVDC fast charger, which powers two- and three-wheelers to 80 per cent in just 10 minutes, the time it takes to sip a cutting chai.

    “At Thunderplus, we believe in collaboration over competition,” said Thunderplus CEO Rajeev YSR. “Our hubs will now evolve into multi-activity economic centres, offering not just fast charging but battery swapping and community access points for EV users.”

    Hyderabad where Bijliride first plugged in continues to lead India’s electric mobility charge. The city’s vibrant mix of professionals, gig workers, and students makes it the perfect launchpad for Bijliride’s hub-and-spoke STAR expansion model.

    “Our goal is simple make sustainable mobility as easy and convenient as ordering a cab,” said Bijliride CEO and co-founder Shivam Sisodiya. “By combining ThunderPlus’s infrastructure with our rental ecosystem, we’re creating connected pickup and drop-off points with charging, swapping, and service support all under one roof.”

    The result? A city where no EV user is more than a few minutes from power. Whether it’s a delivery rider racing against time or a commuter heading to college, the partnership ensures smooth, stress-free rides without the dreaded battery panic.

    Thunderplus and Bijliride also see this as the start of a nationwide circuit. After powering Hyderabad, Bijliride plans to roll out its STAR model in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, expanding its 24/7 operational hubs and integrating charging, swapping, and rentals across India’s major metros.

    For now, the first 24/7 flagship hub in Madhapur, Hyderabad sets the template, a connected, data-driven, user-first experience that redefines what “refuelling” means in an electric age.

    “Together, we’re building not just charging stations but a smarter, cleaner, and more connected ecosystem,” added Rajeev. “The goal is simple: to make EV ownership as convenient as it is responsible.”

    With Thunderplus providing the volts and Bijliride bringing the wheels, India’s EV future looks set to move faster, cleaner, and one chai break at a time.

     

  • Appu’s aura goes digital with launch of Puneeth Rajkumar Star Fandom app

    Appu’s aura goes digital with launch of Puneeth Rajkumar Star Fandom app

    MUMBAI: The Power Star has found a new stage, the digital kind. The late Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar’s infectious energy and enduring charisma now live on through pixels and code, as Star Fandom LLP unveils the Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar Star Fandom App, a first-of-its-kind platform blending emotion, technology, and fandom.

    Conceptualised by Dr. Samartha Raghava Nagabhushanam, founder chairman of Star Fandom, in collaboration with Smt. Ashwini Puneeth Rajkumar, the app was launched in the presence of deputy chief minister D. K. Shivakumar. The platform uses artificial intelligence, machine learning, and emotion mapping to let fans experience what technology rarely delivers connection with heart.

    “Star Fandom was envisioned to bring fans closer to the emotions and values their stars ignite within them,” said Dr. Nagabhushanam. “Puneeth Rajkumar’s aura continues to be the heartbeat of this initiative. With the app, we’ve harnessed AI to make that connection dynamic and personal.”

    The app is designed to unite over 70 million fans across the globe, serving as a digital meeting point for Kannadigas and cinema lovers. It reimagines fandom not as a one-way adoration but as a living, evolving relationship between fans and the legacy they love.

    Smt. Ashwini Puneeth Rajkumar described it as “a space to celebrate Puneeth, learn from his values, and keep his energy alive every day.”

    And there’s plenty within the app to keep the spirit of Appu alive:

    ● Podcasts – For the first time, Smt. Ashwini Puneeth Rajkumar opens up about her journey with Puneeth and the legacy of the Rajkumar family. Hosted by Anushree, the series features friends, colleagues, and collaborators sharing unseen memories and heartfelt anecdotes.

    ● Chota Appu – A playful, inspiring corner for children filled with stories and rhymes inspired by Appu, nurturing creativity and kindness.

    ● Puneeth-Inspired Fitness – Guided workouts modelled on the Power Star’s discipline and positivity, letting fans train like their hero.

    ● Quizzes & Puzzles – Fun challenges celebrating Puneeth’s cinematic milestones and Sandalwood culture.

    ● Sandalwood Pulse – A news hub tracking everything from new releases to behind-the-scenes stories across Kannada cinema.

    ● Connect to Connect – A collaborative digital space bringing together fans, artists, and technicians to co-create and share ideas.

    ● Daily Vibes – Wallpapers, stickers, and personalised content that keep the Power Star’s infectious positivity glowing on every device.

    But this isn’t just a nostalgia app, it’s a tech-forward tribute that learns and evolves. With AI and emotion mapping, each interaction shapes a personalised journey, making the experience as unique as every fan’s connection to Puneeth.

    For Star Fandom LLP, founded to bridge the gap between celebrities and their audiences, the app is just the first step. “We see Star Fandom as a blueprint for a new digital era of engagement,” Dr. Nagabhushanam added. “An era where emotion, innovation, and community come together to create living, lasting connections that transcend generations.”

    Now available globally on Android and iOS, the Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar Star Fandom App ensures that the Power Star’s light doesn’t just shine on screen, it glows in every fan’s palm.

     

  • Tejas powers up Powertel’s network speed

    Tejas powers up Powertel’s network speed

    MUMBAI: Powertel, the telecom arm of Power Grid Corporation of India, has tapped Tejas Networks to supercharge its pan-India DWDM network with a lightning-fast 400Gb per second upgrade. The project marks another major milestone for the Bengaluru-based tech player, which will design, supply, install, and integrate a next-generation SDN-based DWDM system across new and existing sites.

    Tejas will roll out its flagship multi-terabit TJ1600 DWDM/OTN platform, capable of delivering up to a staggering 1.2Tb per second per wavelength while supporting the cutting-edge alien wavelength technology, a feature that allows seamless data transmission over third-party systems.

    Tejas Networks chief operating officer and executive director Arnob Roy said, “We are delighted to extend our partnership with Powertel to expand their backbone capacity and meet the surging demand for high-speed connectivity from data centres, telcos, government and enterprises. Our alien wavelength solution provides a cost-efficient way to scale bandwidth while ensuring diversity and speed to market.”

    A part of the Tata Group, Tejas Networks designs and manufactures high-performance networking products for telecom, defence, utilities, and government clients in over 75 countries. With this upgrade, Powertel’s network is set to handle India’s growing data surge with more power, precision and, quite literally, a better connection.

     

  • HDFC Securities busts fraudsters with flair

    HDFC Securities busts fraudsters with flair

    MUMBAI: HDFC Securities has launched Kya Aap Taiyyar Ho?, a nationwide fraud awareness drive that brings Bollywood storytelling to the world of financial security. The campaign, part of the company’s Knowyourmoney initiative, uses humour, drama, and realism to show how easily scams can slip into everyday life, and how awareness can be the ultimate defence.

    Directed by award-winning filmmaker Nitesh Tiwari of Dangal and Chhichhore fame, the campaign stars Manoj Pahwa, Bhuvan Arora, and Sapna Sand as part of a quirky ‘Fraudster Family’ that hilariously exposes modern investment scams. Through engaging short films, the series demystifies online trickery and emotional manipulation that have cost countless families their savings.

    “When you see people lose their hard-earned money, you realise awareness isn’t optional, it’s essential,” said Tiwari. “This campaign empowers every investor to stay informed and protect what they’ve built.”

    With a mission to make financial literacy entertaining and accessible, HDFC Securities has turned Knowyourmoney into one of India’s largest hybrid awareness programmes, reaching over 1.1 crore people weekly through videos, podcasts, community sessions, and gamified learning in 13 languages.

    HDFC Securities EVP & CMO Puneeth Bekal noted, “Fraud has evolved in scale and sophistication, and the only sustainable defence is awareness. Kya Aap Taiyyar Ho? gives people the tools to make informed decisions and safeguard their money.”

    The campaign’s creative offshoots, from a comic strip series called Bear and Bull to interactive games like Investment Heist and a forthcoming Fraudster’s Dossier, make money matters feel less intimidating and more engaging. It even celebrates citizens who have successfully spotted and stopped scams, proving that financial vigilance can be learned.

    By combining cinema, community, and conversation, HDFC Securities isn’t just teaching people how to protect their money, it’s turning awareness into a movement. After all, when it comes to scams, prevention is the smartest investment of all.

     

  • Wrap2Earn takes brands on a ‘bus-ted’ new ride

    Wrap2Earn takes brands on a ‘bus-ted’ new ride

    MUMBAI: Talk about a move in the right direction! Wrap2Earn is hitting the advertising fast lane with its latest partnership with Uber Shuttle, Uber’s intracity bus service for corporate commuters. The Mumbai-based transit advertising firm now holds exclusive rights to manage both exterior and in-vehicle branding across Uber Shuttle’s fleet of over 1,000 buses zipping through more than 50 curated routes in two of India’s busiest metros.

    With over a million monthly bookings, Uber Shuttle has become the preferred ride for professionals who value comfort, reliability and consistency. And that’s precisely the audience brands are keen to catch on the move. From the outside wraps that dominate cityscapes to in-bus displays targeting over 50,000 monthly riders, the collaboration promises high visibility, measurable reach and cost-effective impact.

    Uber Shuttle India Head Amit Deshpande said, “Uber Shuttle has quickly emerged as the preferred daily choice for working professionals. With this partnership, it becomes a canvas for brands to engage with professionals through smart advertising.”

    The partnership also arrives at a time when static outdoor ads are losing traction. For the price of a single hoarding, brands can instead wrap up to 20 shuttle buses, each covering hundreds of kilometres daily and connecting with millions of urban commuters.

    Wrap2Earn founder and CEO Elmer Dsilva added, “Uber Shuttle represents one of India’s most loved and trusted shared mobility networks. Our partnership makes it possible for advertisers to connect with a highly relevant audience through media that is both effective and measurable.”

    With routes spanning major residential and business hubs, this alliance ensures brands aren’t just seen, they’re remembered. After all, in the race for attention, it seems the wheels of creativity are firmly in motion.

     

  • Top 5 Natural Stone Tiles for Stylish Staircases

    Top 5 Natural Stone Tiles for Stylish Staircases

    A staircase can be more than just a connection between floors. It can become the highlight of your home when designed with the right tiles. Among the many materials available, natural stone tiles stand out for their elegance, durability, and timeless beauty. They bring an organic texture and character that instantly elevates any space. 

    hether your staircase is inside your home or outdoors, stone tiles can add both charm and strength to every step. 
    If you’re planning a staircase renovation, this guide will help you explore the top 5 natural stone tiles that combine style, safety, and long-lasting performance.

    1. Lazio Ash – Subtle and Modern

    For those who prefer understated elegance, Lazio Ash is an excellent choice. Its soft cream tones and gentle texture create a calm, modern look that pairs beautifully with both light and dark interiors. The muted finish makes it perfect for stairs tiles in minimalist or contemporary homes.

    Apart from its refined aesthetic, this tile offers a smooth yet scratch-resistant surface, ideal for high-traffic areas. When combined with neutral wall colours, Lazio Ash can make your staircase look spacious and sophisticated. It’s also easy to maintain, which makes it a smart pick for daily use.

    2. Pulpis Tan – Warm and Earthy

    If you want to bring warmth and depth to your interiors, Pulpis Tan offers that perfect balance. Its earthy brown tones and subtle veining patterns bring a natural warmth that complements wooden furniture and neutral decor. It’s ideal for homeowners who want their staircase to feel grounded yet stylish.

    The matte texture ensures a firm grip and retains the charm even with frequent use. Whether for indoor or outdoor stairs, Pulpis Tan captures the essence of natural stone and gives your staircase a timeless personality.

    3. Copper Roots – Bold and Textured

    When it comes to adding a touch of drama and character, Copper Roots is a showstopper. With its copper-brown surface and natural texture, this stone tile creates a bold focal point that works well in both rustic and industrial-style homes. It captures the raw beauty of nature while maintaining a refined appeal.

    These natural stone tiles are especially well-suited for staircases that receive ample sunlight, as the surface reflects light beautifully, highlighting its detailed patterns. The texture makes it functional as well as fashionable, ensuring your staircase remains safe without compromising on looks.

    4. Calcario Grey – Refined and Minimalist

    If your taste leans towards modern minimalism, Calcario Grey can add that refined touch to your staircase. The light-grey base and subtle stone patterns make it ideal for open spaces and contemporary interiors. The clean lines and natural finish of these stairs tiles provide a sophisticated yet soothing visual balance.

    Calcario Grey works particularly well with metallic railing finishes or glass balustrades, giving your stairs a modern architectural look. It’s a great option for both residential and commercial spaces where style and durability must go hand in hand.

    5. Timber Hazel – Natural and Versatile

    Blending the warmth of wood with the strength of stone, Timber Hazel offers the best of both worlds. Its wood-grain texture gives staircases a soft, welcoming look, while its natural stone properties provide resilience and long life. These tiles are perfect for homeowners who want a natural, warm appearance without compromising durability.

    Timber Hazel pairs beautifully with neutral wall tones or contrasting black railings. The texture provides good traction underfoot, making it a safe choice for families with kids or elderly members. It’s an ideal way to bring the earthy charm of nature into a modern home.

    How to Choose the Right Natural Stone Tiles for Stairs

    Selecting the perfect natural stone tiles for your staircase depends on three main factors: style, safety, and maintenance. Here’s how to make the right choice:

    ●    Style Match: Choose tones that complement your walls and flooring. Warm shades like tan or brown create a cosy atmosphere, while grey tones add sophistication.

    ●    Texture and Grip: Always pick tiles with a matte or textured finish to reduce slipping risks. Avoid glossy surfaces for steps; instead, use them for risers or under-stair walls.

    ●    Ease of Maintenance: Natural stone requires simple upkeep. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping with mild detergent can preserve its beauty for years.

    ●    Durability: Look for tiles with high density and resistance to wear. Full-body or vitrified finishes ensure long-lasting performance, even with heavy use.

    ●    Lighting Compatibility: Stone tiles react beautifully to both natural and artificial lighting. Softer lighting can enhance their natural patterns, making the staircase visually appealing throughout the day.

     Design Tips to Elevate Your Staircase 

    Once you’ve chosen your preferred tiles, a few small design touches can transform your staircase into a true statement piece:  
    ●    Use contrasting risers to break monotony and add depth.

    ●    Pair darker stone steps with lighter walls for a dramatic effect.

    ●    Add warm lighting under stair treads to highlight the stone texture.

    ●    Extend the same tile pattern to the landing area for visual continuity.

    ●    Incorporate metal or glass railings for a modern contrast against natural textures.  
    These combinations allow your staircase to stand out as an integral part of your home’s design rather than just a passageway. 

    Conclusion 

    A staircase designed with natural stone tiles is more than a functional structure; it’s an artistic statement that combines durability, elegance, and craftsmanship. Whether you prefer the calm of Lazio Ash, the warmth of Pulpis Tan, or the bold textures of Copper Roots, every tile tells a story of style and substance.