Category: MAM

  • Sharpline Broadcast tunes into leadership change with board reshuffle

    Sharpline Broadcast tunes into leadership change with board reshuffle

    MUMBAI: Sharpline Broadcast has hit the reset button on its leadership, appointing three new directors as part of its corporate governance revamp. The company announced the induction of Ravi Birla, Satyabrata Mukherjee, and Urmil Gupta as additional non-executive directors, effective 21 February 2025. The move aligns with Sharpline’s strategic vision to bolster its board with experienced professionals and strengthen decision-making processes.

    The appointments come following the resignation of Sulabh Dikshit and Sangeeta Mukherjee as independent directors on 15 January 2025. Birla and Mukherjee step in as independent directors, while Gupta joins as a non-independent director. Their confirmation will be subject to shareholder approval in the upcoming general meeting or within three months.

    Birla, a seasoned journalist with over 20 years of experience and a PG Diploma in Journalism from Delhi University, joins the board alongside Mukherjee, a governance and leadership expert with 17 years of industry experience, known for driving business and technology transformations. Adding a fresh perspective, Gupta, a marketing and general management specialist with five years of experience, completes the trio of new directors.  

  • Celebrity couples endorse Aashirvaad’s juicy Soya Chunks in new TV campaign

    Celebrity couples endorse Aashirvaad’s juicy Soya Chunks in new TV campaign

    MUMBAI : Preparing nutritious yet tasty meals is a daily challenge for many homemakers in West Bengal and Odisha. Aashirvaad Soya Chunks offers a simple solution high in protein, fat-free, and with a unique porous texture that absorbs masala for a rich and juicy taste.

    In a vibrant new television campaign, renowned celebrity couples Subhashree Ganguly and Raj Chakrabarty and Archita Sahu and Sabyasachi Mishra bring their on-screen chemistry to the kitchen, highlighting the mouth-watering appeal of Aashirvaad Soya Chunks. Created by McCann, the adverts showcase the joy of cooking and sharing flavourful, wholesome meals.

    With the catchy slogans ‘Juicy Jomjomati, Soya Fatafati!’ in Bengal and ‘Juicy Jete, Badiya Sete’ in Odisha, the campaign celebrates both taste and nutrition. Containing 53g of protein per 100g, free from preservatives and artificial stabilisers, Aashirvaad Soya Chunks are designed to be a kitchen staple for families seeking a balance of health and flavour.

    Staples and Adjacencies, ITC Ltd COO Anuj Rustagi shared, “This product embodies our commitment to high-quality, nutritious food. Through this campaign, we aim to showcase the joy of home-cooked meals while highlighting the juiciness and protein-rich goodness of Aashirvaad Soya Chunks.” 

  • James Fontanella-Khan appointed US finance editor at Financial Times

    James Fontanella-Khan appointed US finance editor at Financial Times

    MUMBAI: For some senior business executives in India, his is a familiar face and the by line a familiar one as he has reported on  India from both Delhi and Mumbai. The scribe being referred to is James Fontanella-Khan who has been appointed US finance editor at the Financial Times, marking a new chapter in his nearly two-decade career at the publication.

    Fontanella-Khan, who has been with the FT for 19 years, previously served as US corporate finance and deals editor, a role he held for over seven years. As co-creator of Due Diligence, the FT’s flagship briefing on corporate finance and mergers & acquisitions, he has played a key role in shaping the paper’s coverage of deal making.

    His tenure at the FT has spanned multiple global postings, including roles as Brussels correspondent, Delhi correspondent, and Mumbai reporter. He began his career at the publication in 2005 as an intern in London, later progressing to roles at Lex and FT World.

    Beyond journalism, Fontanella-Khan has been an adjunct lecturer in European politics at the City University of New York since 2017.

    He holds a master’s degree in international journalism from St George’s, University of London, and an MA in European studies from Sciences Po.

  • Bisleri partners with ASI to restore water bodies at India’s heritage sites

    Bisleri partners with ASI to restore water bodies at India’s heritage sites

    MUMBAI : Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. has embarked on a visionary collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) under the Adopt a Heritage 2.0 Programme, uniting heritage conservation with sustainable water stewardship. This landmark partnership, formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), was signed by ASI director Zulfeqar Ali and Bisleri CEO Angelo George, with the agreement ceremoniously exchanged between ASI director general Yadubir Singh Rawat and George.

    As part of ‘Bisleri’s Nayi Umeed’ CSR initiative, the project will initially focus on revitalising four significant water bodies: Chand Baori in Abhaneri, the baori at Neemrana, Padma and Rani talabs at Ranthambore fort, and Budha Budhi pond at Kalinjar fort. Restoration efforts will include desilting, cleaning, ecological rejuvenation, and landscaping, ensuring minimal disruption to these historic sites. Informative signages will also be installed to enhance visitor experience and community engagement.

    George stated, “At Bisleri, we are committed to sustainability and cultural preservation. This collaboration with ASI reflects our dedication to protecting India’s rich heritage while ensuring the conservation of vital water resources for future generations.” 

  • KKR joins hands with Six5six as official kitting partner for IPL 2025

    KKR joins hands with Six5six as official kitting partner for IPL 2025

    MUMBAI: Cricket can be very much fashionable and the reigning Indian Premier League (IPL) champions just got a serious fashion upgrade! Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have teamed up with Six5six, India’s cutting-edge teamwear and streetwear brand, as their official kitting partner. This partnership is about more than just jerseys-it’s about crafting a deeper, more stylish bond between the team and its massive fan base.

    With its design-first philosophy, Six5six aims to redefine KKR’s on-field and off-field look. From match-day jerseys to travel gear and fan collections, every piece in the new collection will embody KKR’s spirit of pride, resilience, and unwavering passion. And the best part? It’s not just premium—it’s affordable, ensuring every fan can wear their support with pride.

    Announcing the partnership, Six5six co-founder & creative director Avni Aneja expressed excitement about the collaboration, “We’re beyond excited to join forces with Kolkata Knight Riders, a franchise that has always stood for excellence and unity. Our philosophy is about more than just designing apparel but weaving a narrative that resonates with every KKR supporter. We can’t wait to share what we’ve created and watch the KKR family embrace it.”

    Echoing the sentiment, Knight Riders Sports group CMO Binda Dey added, “At KKR, our fans are at the heart of everything we do. This partnership with Six5six aligns perfectly with our vision of blending top-tier craftsmanship with a design sensibility that speaks to our young, fashion-forward fan base. Together, we aim to create more than just merchandise but also craft memorable moments and a deeper emotional connection with our supporters.”

    This collaboration isn’t just about looking good—it’s about bringing fans closer to the team. The exclusive KKR x Six5six merchandise will soon be available for purchase on www.Six5six.in and at select retailers nationwide.

    Whether it’s a match day or a casual day out, fans can now wear their KKR pride in style.

  • Ramagya Group partners with Saloni Sood Mehra’s Brand Talkeez to amplify its legacy

    Ramagya Group partners with Saloni Sood Mehra’s Brand Talkeez to amplify its legacy

    MUMBAI: Big moves are happening in the world of education and sports! Ramagya Group has partnered with Brand Talkeez as its official PR partner. This strategic alliance aims to amplify Ramagya’s vision and highlight its groundbreaking contributions in education, sports, and philanthropy.

    Known for its commitment to academic brilliance and sporting excellence, Ramagya Group has set new benchmarks with prestigious institutions and world-class sports academies. Now, with a new professional institute set to launch in March 2025, the group is gearing up for another transformative leap forward.

    Announcing this collaboration, Ramagya Group MD Utkarsh Gupta stated, “At Ramagya, we believe in the power of vision, and every vision needs a voice. The Brand Talkeez team brings the perfect synergy of creativity and strategy to amplify our story, ensuring that our impact resonates far and wide.”

    Matching this enthusiasm, Brand Talkeez founder Saloni Sood Mehra emphasised, “We are thrilled to be the voice behind a brand that transforms lives in education. This partnership with the Ramagya Group is more than just PR—it’s about storytelling that inspires action.”

    The collaboration aims to expand Ramagya’s brand awareness, positioning it as an even stronger force in education and beyond. From academic innovations to global sports initiatives, the focus remains on excellence, innovation, and creating positive change.

  • Healthy snacking and  RP Sanjiv Goneka group’s Shashwat Goenka

    Healthy snacking and RP Sanjiv Goneka group’s Shashwat Goenka

    MUMBAI: The vice chairman of RP Sanjiv Goenka group Shashwat Goenka has revealed how his company-identified the market potential of makhana (fox nuts) before healthy snacking became mainstream in India.

    Speaking at ABP Network’s Ideas of India 2025 summit in Mumbai, Goenka discussed how his company has adapted traditional Indian snacks for health-conscious consumers. “Indians want the punch of flavour in their snacks, but they also want them to be healthy. That’s the balance we aim to perfect,” he said.

    Goenka highlighted the company’s innovation in traditional snacks, noting their bhujias contain 45 per cent less saturated fat while maintaining authentic taste. He emphasised that taste remains paramount, stating, “If a product is not enjoyable, consumers will not come back to it.”

    Addressing the evolution of consumer behaviour, Goenka pointed to the rise of quick commerce and increased consumer willingness to experiment with new products. He stressed the importance of maintaining consistent supply chains to meet this growing demand.

    When discussing industry competition, Goenka cited rapid technological adaptation as crucial for success. He named Mukesh Ambani and Elon Musk as business leaders he admires for their vision.

    The two-day summit, themed ‘Humanity’s Next Frontier’, brings together global thought leaders to discuss India’s role in addressing challenges from climate change to artificial intelligence.
     

  • Bajaj Electricals hit with Rs 14.08 crore GST demand, plans legal appeal

    Bajaj Electricals hit with Rs 14.08 crore GST demand, plans legal appeal

    MUMBAI: Bajaj Electricals Limited has received an assessment order from the Punjab GST Authority, imposing a Rs 14.08 crore tax demand for the financial year 2020-21. The notice, issued by the Punjab, Mohali assistant commissioner under Section 73 of the Punjab Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, and Section 73 of the CGST Act, 2017, alleges liabilities related to the reverse charge mechanism (RCM) and discrepancies in the input tax credit (ITC) claimed by the company.

    Breakdown of the demand

    1    Tax demand: Rs. 7.45 crore

    2    Interest: Rs. 5.89 crore

    3    Penalty: Rs. 0.75 crore

    4    Total demand: Rs. 14.08 crore

    Bajaj Electricals has assured stakeholders that it is exploring all legal options, including filing an appeal before the appropriate appellate authority. The company maintains that its financial operations and business activities remain unaffected by the demand and that it is committed to ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.

    In a formal disclosure to BSE Ltd and the National Stock Exchange of India Ltd (NSE), the company stated that it remains committed to addressing the issue through legal channels and emphasised that there is no immediate operational impact.

    While Bajaj Electricals gears up for a legal battle, this development underscores the growing scrutiny of tax compliance in the corporate sector. 

  • Crompton launches ‘TechWithHeart’—Smart, energy-efficient solutions for all

    Crompton launches ‘TechWithHeart’—Smart, energy-efficient solutions for all

    MUMBAI: Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd. has once again raised the bar for smart, energy-efficient living. The company introduced ‘TechWithHeart’, an initiative designed to deliver cutting-edge, consumer-first electrical solutions. The launch aligns with Crompton’s philosophy of ‘Innovation that Listens, Tech that Cares’, reflecting its relentless pursuit of performance, energy efficiency, and durability in consumer electricals.

    With this move, Crompton reinforced its mission of blending technology with real-world usability. The innovations under ‘TechWithHeart’ are indigenously developed and tailored to improve everyday life. Whether it’s fans that cut energy bills, pumps that ensure seamless water flow, or next-gen appliances that elevate home comfort, Crompton has kept consumers at the centre of every product.

    At a press event held at its brand-new Mumbai headquarters, Crompton’s leadership team showcased its latest innovations under #TechWithHeart:

    1    Tech that truly matters: Solutions focused on energy efficiency, convenience, and intelligent home integration.

    2    Consumer-first approach: Each innovation is built upon deep consumer insights, making life smarter and simpler.

    3    Strategic R&D investments: Crompton has scaled its research efforts, with over 200 dedicated R&D professionals driving market leadership.

    4    Made in India, built for the world: With locally sourced components and robust supply chains, Crompton champions indigenous innovation.

    Crompton is a fan industry leader, selling one every two seconds—over two crore units in FY24. Now, it has introduced two revolutionary platforms:

    Nucleus Platform: A homegrown BLDC technology, delivering high efficiency, reliability, and smart connectivity. The result? More savings, more performance, and more durability, rigorously tested across diverse operating conditions.

    Xtech Platform: Reinventing induction fan technology, Xtech enhances energy efficiency and product longevity. Fully developed in India, this innovation underscores Crompton’s industry dominance with a robust local supply chain.

    Crompton continues its reign in the water pumps sector, addressing growing urban and rural needs. The company introduced:

    1    Star-rated pumps: A lineup of 190+ BEE-certified energy-efficient pumps ensuring high flow rates with lower power consumption.

    2    Solar pumps: A sustainable leap forward—5,000+ solar units deployed in the first year alone, in sync with government initiatives like PM-KUSUM.

    Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd. MD & CEO Promeet Ghosh summed it up best, “At Crompton, we are shaping the future of consumer electricals with consumer-centric innovation at our core. We continue to introduce advanced solutions that seamlessly integrate technology, performance and are designed to meet the evolving consumer needs, while emphasising durability and easy reparability of our products. Our latest innovations bring in efficiency in induction and BLDC fan technologies, providing smart solutions that are future forward. Sustainability is at the heart of the next-generation technology platforms that are being introduced as part of our ‘TechWithHeart’ innovations.”

    With ‘TechWithHeart’, Crompton has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering smarter, greener, and consumer-friendly electrical solutions. The future of Indian homes has never looked brighter—or more efficient!

  • Flipkart’s smartphone baba brings affordable phones to Mahakumbh grounds

    Flipkart’s smartphone baba brings affordable phones to Mahakumbh grounds

    MUMBAI: At Mahakumbh 2025, where millions gathered for spiritual enlightenment, Flipkart and SW Network orchestrated a marketing spectacle that blended tradition with technology. The ‘Flipkart Smartphone Baba’ campaign transformed the retailer’s smartphone presence into a viral sensation, reaching 40 crore attendees and turning budget phone shopping into a festival highlight.

    Draped in saffron and armed with unbeatable deals, Smartphone Baba wandered through the Mahakumbh, preaching the gospel of budget smartphones from brands like Vivo, Poco, Realme, and Samsung, all priced between Rs 8,000 and Rs 15,000. The character’s quirky charm, coupled with custom towel giveaways, had devotees queuing up for hours, eager to take home not just a blessing but a pocket-friendly smartphone.

    The campaign went beyond just selling phones, immersing itself fully in the Kumbh experience. Flipkart’s festival presence included interactive retail hubs, where trained representatives guided devotees through the purchase process. Additionally, the ‘SnapMySnaan’ initiative provided professional photography for those taking a dip in the holy Ganga, while influencer-led, real-time content creation amplified the campaign across digital platforms. To further engage the crowd, Flipkart also held free phone giveaways, ensuring their message of accessibility resonated widely and effectively.  

    “At SW Network, we believe in crafting campaigns that don’t just sell but connect with people in a meaningful way,” said SW Network co-founder Raghav Bagai. “Smartphone Baba was more than a mascot, it was a movement, making technology accessible and engaging.”

    Flipkart hailed the initiative as a game-changer in festival marketing. “This campaign seamlessly blended affordability, engagement, and cultural immersion, making phone buying effortless and fun,” said a Flipkart leadership team member.

    The campaign successfully bridged the gap between modern retail and the festival’s largely offline audience, addressing digital literacy barriers with personalised assistance and a culturally resonant approach.