Category: MAM

  • Asian Paints unveils new film showcasing 80 years of trust and innovation

    Asian Paints unveils new film showcasing 80 years of trust and innovation

    MUMBAI: Asian Paints has unveiled its latest corporate film, Asian Paints Ki Warranty, India Ka Har Doosra Ghar Kehta Hai, celebrating 80 years of quality, trust, and innovation. The film beautifully encapsulates the brand’s deep-rooted presence in Indian homes, spanning generations and geographies.

    For decades, Asian Paints has been a constant in households across the country, from first homes to family legacies. Through repeated warranty cycles and a commitment to protection and beauty, the brand has established an enduring relationship with homeowners.  

    Conceptualised by Ogilvy, the film takes viewers on a journey through India’s diverse homes, showcasing the emotional bond between families and their trusted paint brand. Through heartfelt storytelling, warm visuals, and soulful music, it highlights how Asian Paints is more than just a name—it’s a symbol of lasting care.

    Asian Paints CEO & MD Amit Syngle shared, “For over 80 years, we have been a part of millions of Indian homes, evolving with generations. This film is a tribute to the trust and connection we share with families, celebrating the role we play in making every home special.”

    Ogilvy CCO Sukesh Nayak added, “This campaign brings to life the unshakable bond between Indian homes and Asian Paints. Every second home in India reflects the brand’s promise of protection, beauty, and reliability.”

    Launched during the peak of the cricket season, the campaign resonates with the shared spirit of home and tradition, much like the sport that unites the nation.

  • Tilaknagar Industries adds pink vodka to its liquor cabinet

    Tilaknagar Industries adds pink vodka to its liquor cabinet

    MUMBAI: Tilaknagar Industries, the veteran booze-maker with a 90-year legacy, is set to spice up its liquor lineup by distributing Amara artisanal pink vodka, a flamboyant new spirit from craft distiller Spaceman Spirits Lab. The arrangement, which kicks off in Q1 FY26, will see Tilaknagar pocket royalties for flogging Spaceman’s premium tipples across select Indian states and international markets.

    The collaboration adds a splash of colour to Tilaknagar’s existing portfolio of posh Indian plonk, including two Millionaire brandy brands—Mansion House and Courrier Napoleon – Monarch Legacy Edition brandy,  Mansion House whisky, Madiraa rum and Blue Lagoon gin.  The deal will see Spaceman’s entire range—Samsara gin, Sitara rum and the new Amara Vodka—riding on Tilaknagar’s extensive distribution network, giving both companies a proper leg-up in the premium spirits market.

    India’s vodka scene is positively buzzing, with consumption soaring 16.5 per cent in 2023, according to IWSR Drinks Market Analysis. While bog-standard vodka still dominates with 94 per cent market share, the fancy stuff is growing at a cracking pace—super-premium vodka swelled by 19.6 per cent between 2022 and 2023.

    “Globally, craft spirits are having a moment, with flavoured concoctions leading the charge in premium innovations,” says Tilaknagar Industries chairman & managing director  Amit Dahanukar. “India is fast catching up, with younger consumers and trendy high-energy urban bars embracing colourful, Instagrammable cocktails. The global shift toward premiumisation and flavored vodkas bodes well for the Amara.”

    The debutante, which will square off against posh global vodka brands, is a lavish blend of five-times distilled spirits made from Bangalore blue grapes and rice grains from India’s Deccan Plateau. The rosy-hued spirit is infused with a garden party of ingredients—strawberries, passion fruit, peaches, citrus, rose petals, lotus and cherry blossoms—and filtered through pink rubies for extra swank.

    Founded by Aditya Aggarwal, Riddhi Aggarwal, Sapna Aggarwal and Jai Chopra, Spaceman Spirits Lab is renowned for pushing boundaries in the craft spirits industry.

    “India is experiencing a post-Covid drinking renaissance,” says Spaceman Spirits Lab founder & managing director Aditya Aggarwal. “Consumers are seeking elevated experiences, occasion-driven consumption, unique flavours, and ultra-premium-quality spirits. With Amara, we’re bringing craftsmanship and innovation into a category that is ripe for disruption.”

    This pink concoction won’t come cheap—a 750ml decanter will set punters back between Rs 2,500 and Rs 4,500, depending on local taxes. It’ll initially be available in premium outlets across Goa, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Haryana, Delhi and Rajasthan, before swanning off to international markets including duty-free shops, UAE, UK and Singapore in the latter half of FY26.

    Tilaknagar had already shown its fondness for Spaceman last September, announcing a follow-on investment of Rs 13.15 crore that would boost its stake to 20 per cent. With this latest move, the venerable liquor merchant appears determined to paint the town pink.

  • Bhawna Rao opens flagship store, redefining luxury with bespoke couture

    Bhawna Rao opens flagship store, redefining luxury with bespoke couture

    MUMBAI: Bhawna Rao has unveiled its flagship store in Chattarpur, offering a refined shopping experience for those who appreciate elegance with a personal touch. More than just a retail space, the boutique blends intricate craftsmanship with modern luxury in an intimate, immersive setting.

    Inspired by Baroque architecture, the store’s interiors feature grand French columns, graceful archways, and a soft, ethereal ambience. Delicate music and soothing fragrances enhance the experience, making each visit as indulgent as the couture on display.

    What sets this boutique apart is its bespoke approach. Exclusive fittings, one-on-one consultations, and couture designed to celebrate individuality transform shopping into a personalised journey. Customers are invited to explore a collection that balances opulence with comfort, showcasing fine fabrics that feel as luxurious as they look.

    Film star Nushrratt Bharuccha arrived in a dazzling Rao creation, embodying contemporary regal charm.

    Speaking about this new milestone, Rao shared, “I wanted to create a space where women could enjoy a curated, luxurious experience that is both personal and comfortable. Every detail, from the ambience to the service, is designed to make each visit feel truly special. Our designs are crafted for extraordinary occasions, and this boutique reflects that same sense of celebration.”

    Since its inception in 2016, Rao has become synonymous with refined craftsmanship and contemporary couture. This flagship store marks a new phase for the brand, with aspirations to extend its presence across India and beyond.

  • REA India brings Amit Chand on board as group CFO to keep the numbers dancing

    REA India brings Amit Chand on board as group CFO to keep the numbers dancing

    MUMBAI: There’s a new finance boss in town, and he’s not just balancing books—he’s scaling peaks. REA India, the muscle behind Housing.com and PropTiger.com, has brought in Amit Chand as its new chief financial officer, and by the looks of it, things are about to get interesting on the money front. The announcement came on 24 March 2025, with Chand set to steer not only finance but also legal, compliance, procurement, and risk assurance at the Gurgaon HQ. No pressure, right?

    Chand is no stranger to complex ledgers and high-stakes boardrooms. With over 20 years under his financial belt, he’s worn multiple hats—from fundraising wizard to M&A maestro. Most recently, he served as CFO at TCNS Clothing, where he didn’t just crunch numbers, he drove revenue growth, boosted EBITDA, and played a central role in the company’s blockbuster acquisition by Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail Ltd. — one of the biggest deals in the fashion biz.

    “We are excited to welcome Amit to the REA India leadership team. His proven financial acumen and track record of scaling businesses will be valuable as we continue to build on our strong momentum and create greater value for customers and stakeholders alike,” said Housing.com & PropTiger.com group CEO Dhruv Agarwala.

    Chand, who now carries the group CFO title, returned the sentiment with gusto, “I’m thrilled to join REA India at such a dynamic time for the digital real estate sector. Housing.com and PropTiger.com are reshaping how Indians engage with property, and I look forward to driving financial excellence, scaling operations, and helping unlock the next wave of growth.”

    Before playing fashion finance fixer at TCNS, Chand was the CFO of a tech-savvy startup backed by Elevation Capital. There, he manned the money ship, leading fundraising, investor relations, M&A action, and monetisation strategy. With toes dipped in both consumer and tech pools, he seems tailor-made to help REA India blaze ahead in the digital real estate domain.

    From bricks and clicks to margins and missions, Chand is now the man keeping REA India’s financial engine purring. 

  • Splash alert as Aqua Imagicaa makes a wave in Indore with grand opening

    Splash alert as Aqua Imagicaa makes a wave in Indore with grand opening

    MUMBAI: Indore is about to get a whole lot wetter and wilder! Aqua Imagicaa Water Park has officially opened its doors in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, bringing world-class water attractions to the region. Nestled just 20 minutes from Indore and Ujjain, this sprawling 18-acre aqua wonderland promises to be the ultimate summer escape for thrill-seekers and families alike.

    The launch marks a major milestone for Imagicaaworld Entertainment Limited, reinforcing its position as a leading player in India’s leisure and entertainment landscape. Following the roaring success of Aqua Imagicaa Surat, which debuted in March 2023, the brand is making a splash in central India, expanding its portfolio to eight parks nationwide.

    Imagicaaworld Entertainment Limited managing director Jai Malpani shared, “We are excited to expand Aqua Imagicaa’s presence with our second park in Indore making it the biggest water park in Madhya Pradesh and the 5 th water park in our portfiolio. This expansion increases our park count to 8 parks and brings us closer to our consumers and meets the increasing demand fior quality water parks in India. As we continue to add one new park each year, Aqua Imagicaa Indore marks another step in fiulfiilling our promise to bring new, unique entertainment destinations across the country. This aligns with the company’s vision to provide top-tier entertainment experiences to dififierent catchments across India, fiurther solidifiying the company’s position as a leader in the country’s growing leisure and entertainment landscape”.

    With 20 exhilarating rides, Aqua Imagicaa Indore is set to be Madhya Pradesh’s largest water park. From adrenaline-pumping slides to relaxing wave pools, the park caters to every kind of visitor, whether they crave heart-racing thrills or a laid-back aquatic retreat.

  • Citykart dials up the drama with a Hindi cinema summer fashion blockbuster

    Citykart dials up the drama with a Hindi cinema summer fashion blockbuster

    MUMBAI: Citykart has just dropped a summer campaign that’s got more drama than a daily soap and more flair than a 90s hero’s wardrobe. Aptly titled ‘Rang Aur Riwaaz,’ the campaign transforms its 137 stores into mini Hindi cinema sets, blending nostalgia, humour, and masala with big, bold value deals. And yes, there’s a Hindi cinema playlist too. If your retail therapy lacked entertainment, Citykart just changed the script.

    On 24 March 2025, the brand launched its summer collection with an OOH blitz that screams ‘filmy fever’. Auto-hoods, billboards, in-store branding, and social media channels have all been swept into this cinematic storm. At the centre of it all? Irresistible offers like ‘BillBuster: Get Duffle Bag/Dry Iron/Water Jug Combo/Dinner Set @249’ and cashback on every purchase.

    The star of the show isn’t just the clothes—it’s the campaign’s attitude. With cheeky lines like “Ja Simran Ja, Kar le shopping Citykart se”, the ads tap into Hindi cinema’s most iconic one-liners. Think retail meets reel life. The campaign, created by Citykart and executed by cloud-based agency Fatleg, aims to fuse cultural familiarity with design that pops louder than a Holi colour cannon.

    “We are excited to launch this campaign, which ensures that every member of a family can embrace vibrant and budget-friendly fashion. Moreover, Citykart is dedicated to making fashion more accessible and a trendsetter for Gen Zs. This collection caters to the bold, expressive, and trend-conscious spirit of today’s youth. From street-style influences to Hindi cinema-inspired elements, we’re ensuring that Gen Z can step into summer with outfits that are Instagram-worthy and affordable,” said Citykart director Sudhanshu Agarwal.

    Fatleg’s founder Anoop K Nair chimed in with equal enthusiasm, “We at Fatleg, had a great time working with Citykart on their summer campaign! Instead of using a traditional product shoot, we took a fresh approach by incorporating Hindi cinema inspired dialogues and popular memes, a format that instantly connects with the target audience. We were thrilled to bring Citykart’s vision to life. The real fun was seeing how well it resonated with the audience, making the campaign more engaging, relatable, and shareable within the industry.”

    To keep the filmi vibe rolling, Citykart is pumping a specially curated playlist through stores, giving every shopper a chance to feel like the main character. Add top influencers and local celebs into the mix, and you’ve got a campaign that’s as shareable as it is shoppable.

    Citykart isn’t just selling shirts and sarees. It’s selling nostalgia, drama, and the pure joy of shouting Yeh dil maange more while snagging a dinner set for under 300 bucks. Budget fashion just got a Hindi cinema reboot, and it’s playing near you.

  • Henna Pande returns to FCB Kinnect as EVP – north, ready for a new chapter

    Henna Pande returns to FCB Kinnect as EVP – north, ready for a new chapter

    MUMBAI: FCB Kinnect has welcomed back Henna Pande as executive vice president – north. Following a well-deserved sabbatical in 2024 to focus on personal well-being, she is set to steer the agency’s Delhi operations towards further expansion and innovation.

    With over 15 years in the industry, Pande played a pivotal role in strengthening Kinnect’s presence in the north. During her six-year tenure, culminating as vice president (North), she expanded the Delhi team from 15 to over 100 professionals and worked with global clients such as Amazon, Nokia, Bausch + Lomb, vivo, and Vistara.

    “Rejoining FCB Kinnect feels like returning home,” Pande shared. “Having built the Delhi operations from the ground up, I look forward to this next phase. Working with Rohan Mehta and Chandni Shah has always been an exciting, high-impact experience. Now, with Neville and Priyanka driving an idea-first culture, we have a distinct advantage in turning bold creative thinking into measurable success. The ambition and vision at Kinnect are unparalleled, and I am eager to set new benchmarks and make a meaningful impact.”

    FCB Kinnect & FCB/SIX India CEO Mehta described Pande as a driving force in the industry, with a keen understanding of business and a strong ability to blend innovation with operational excellence.

    COO Shah added, “Pande has been instrumental in shaping our presence in the north. She understands what makes Kinnect unique – a culture built on creativity, agility, and seamless collaboration. With her back in Delhi, we are poised for even greater success.”

  • Fashion veteran Sumit Dhingra steps into Bestseller India’s top shoes

    Fashion veteran Sumit Dhingra steps into Bestseller India’s top shoes

    MUMBAI: Bestseller India has tapped Sumit Dhingra as its new country director, poaching the fashion veteran from footwear phenomenon Crocs where he most recently headed operations across India, southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

    Dhingra brings over two decades of fashion and lifestyle industry expertise to the Danish clothing company, with a CV that reads like a who’s who of retail powerhouses. His appointment signals Bestseller’s determination to put its best foot forward in the burgeoning Indian market.

    Before making waves at Crocs, Dhingra cut his teeth at several fashion heavyweights, including a near-decade stint at Arvind Fashions Ltd where he served as senior vice president and chief executive for Arrow, Izod and Aéropostale. He previously held leadership positions at United Colors of Benetton India and Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail.

    Bestseller chief executive Anders Holch Povlsen highlighted India’s strategic importance to the company’s global ambitions and welcomed Sumit to the company. 

    Dhingra appears ready to hit the ground running, with plans to expand Bestseller’s market presence, jazz up the customer experience, and drive sustainable growth in what industry insiders describe as a “transformative phase” for the company’s Indian operations.

    With brands like Jack & Jones, Vero Moda, and Only in its portfolio, Bestseller will be banking on Dhingra’s proven track record of brand building and retail expansion to stitch up a larger share of India’s fashion market. Fashion watchers will be keen to see if he can work the same magic that made Crocs’ distinctive footwear impossible to dodge on Indian streets.

  • Aprajit Kathuria bags top e-commerce role at Atomberg

    Aprajit Kathuria bags top e-commerce role at Atomberg

    MUMBAI: After five years of helping consumers slip into something more comfortable at Solethreads, Aprajit Kathuria has stepped into a new role as head of ecommerce at Atomberg Technologies.

    The marketing maven brings more than a dozen years of sales and marketing nous to the table, including his recent five-year stint as co-founder and chief marketing officer at the casual footwear brand, where he built the direct-to-consumer business from scratch.

    “I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as head of ecommerce at Atomberg Technologies,” Kathuria announced on his LinkedIn profile.

    At Solethreads, Kathuria wore many hats—handling D2C business, performance marketing and expanding into retail with exclusive brand outlets. Under his watch, the company transformed from a bootstrapped venture to one backed by leading consumer VCs.

    His CV boasts impressive stints at consumer goods heavyweights Hindustan Unilever Ltd and Marico, where he helped establish digital-first brands and scale up e-commerce operations. At HUL, he reportedly grew monthly sales on Amazon by over 10 times in just one year.

    The computer science graduate’s career kicked off at Cavinkare, where he doubled monthly turnover within three months and achieved 90 per cent sales growth in his region.

    His academic credentials include an MBA in marketing from Symbiosis Institute of Management Studies, where he participated in various marketing competitions and managed to squeeze in time for lawn tennis, singing and creative writing.

    With his knack for growing online sales and building brands from the ground up, Atomberg will be hoping Kathuria can generate some electric results in his new role.