ITV

Category: MAM

  • Blinkit-The Local Talk partner for an expansive OOH campaign in Mysuru

    Blinkit-The Local Talk partner for an expansive OOH campaign in Mysuru

    MUMBAI: Life in a tier-2 city often feels like a nostalgic slow waltz, doesn’t it?

    Gone are the days of instant deliveries, where tier-1 living spoiled you with groceries at your doorstep in minutes and your midnight cravings met with a mere tap on your screen.

    Frustrating, right?

    But just as you’re coming to terms with the snail pace of tier-2 convenience, Blinkit has a surprise in store.

    In a bold, colourful splash across Mysuru’s streets, Blinkit, India’s leading quick-commerce trailblazer, has launched a striking out-of-home (OOH) advertising campaign in partnership with The Local Talk.

    With this vibrant initiative, Blinkit isn’t just delivering groceries—it’s delivering a message: tier-2 cities are no longer left behind in the quick-commerce revolution.

    The campaign highlights Blinkit’s dedication to creating a lasting connection with Mysuru’s audience while addressing the rising demand for quick-commerce services. Designed and executed by The Local Talk, the campaign features high-impact visuals and strategic placements across Mysuru, aiming to embed Blinkit’s brand deeply within the local consciousness.

    The Local Talk director Anil Soni expressed optimism about the collaboration, “Mysuru is a market brimming with potential, and Blinkit’s innovative approach resonates well with the city’s audience. Through this campaign, we’ve ensured Blinkit’s brand presence is impactful and widespread. The initial response has been excellent, and we’re excited about the possibilities this collaboration brings.”

    This campaign leverages Mysuru’s unique consumer landscape to foster engagement and drive Blinkit’s penetration into tier-2 markets.

    As the demand for quick-commerce solutions grows in tier-2 cities, Blinkit continues to position itself as a reliable and forward-thinking service provider. With The Local Talk’s creative execution and a tailored approach to Mysuru’s audience, Blinkit aims to become a household name in the region.

  • A powerhouse move: Deepali Handa joins Endemol Shine India

    A powerhouse move: Deepali Handa joins Endemol Shine India

    MUMBAI: What does it take to lead commercials and production at one of India’s most prominent content powerhouses?

    Endemol Shine India, part of Banijay Entertainment’s global empire, seems to have found the answer in Deepali Handa.

    After an illustrious 15-year journey at BBC Studios as its commercial head, Handa steps into her new role as executive vice president with unmatched expertise in both scripted and unscripted genres.

    This move not only signals a new era for Endemol Shine India but also cements Deepak Dhar’s leadership vision of bringing in seasoned industry stalwarts to drive innovative storytelling and production excellence. With over two decades of experience in shaping content strategies, Handa’s appointment promises to redefine the creative and commercial blueprint for the company.

    Who better to steer the helm at one of the industry’s most dynamic production houses than someone who’s been a cornerstone in scripted and unscripted success stories?

    Handa’s journey and her next chapter at Endemol Shine India are stories waiting to unfold.

    Before joining Endemol Shine India, Handa played pivotal roles at BBC Studios India, where she served as head of commercials, production, and executive producer. Her extensive portfolio includes leading large-scale production operations, enhancing operational efficiency, and driving profitability through innovative strategies.

    Banijay Asia & Endemol Shine India group COO, Rishi Negi expressed confidence in Deepali’s capabilities, “Deepali’s expertise and insights in both production and commercials make her a valuable addition to our leadership team. We look forward to her playing a pivotal role in ensuring we stay at the forefront of delivering quality and cutting-edge content to our partners and consumers.”

    Handa’s addition reflects Endemol Shine India’s commitment to staying ahead in the dynamic world of television and entertainment. Known for producing iconic formats such as Bigg Boss and MasterChef India, Endemol Shine continues to innovate and adapt to meet evolving audience preferences.

    Excited about her new role, Handa commented, “Endemol Shine India has made its mark and held its own, be it in big-scale unscripted format production or scripted content. I’m excited to join the bandwagon and contribute to its legacy of producing world-class content.”

    Her career showcases versatility across diverse formats, including television, films, and documentaries, underscoring her deep understanding of storytelling across mediums.

    Handa’s strategic leadership is expected to enhance operational efficiency while maintaining the high-quality benchmarks Endemol Shine India is known for. She will oversee both scripted and unscripted projects, ensuring the company continues to set industry standards.

  • LenDenClub pushes “how lending for a day leads to earnings” concept

    LenDenClub pushes “how lending for a day leads to earnings” concept

    MUMBAI: What if every day could feel like a celebration?

    Indian peer to peer (P2P) lending platform LenDenClub is working on making this dream a reality with its latest campaign, “Banao har din ho khaas, daily earnings ke saath.”

    The campaign takes a playful yet impactful approach to showcase how daily earnings can turn life’s little hurdles into empowering victories, proving that financial stability doesn’t just balance the books—it uplifts the spirit with LenDenClub’s new offering- which is the daily earnings option. The advertising aims to create awareness that the new option allows lenders to earn income daily, with both interest and principal repayments credited directly to their bank accounts, providing consistent cash flow for daily expenses or long-term financial growth. The campaign, now live on YouTube and Instagram, highlights this innovative daily earning solution.

    With the tagline, “Banao har din khaas, daily earning ke saath,” the campaign dives into the challenges and triumphs of everyday life with two hilarious and heartwarming ad films featuring MTV Roadies fame Suchit Vikram Singh, actor Vivek Raaj Sharma (Surrogacy [2021], Bewafai [2023], Freaky Night [2022]) and Deepak B. Daryani (Sikandar Ka Muqaddar [2024], Officer [2018], Bose: Dead/Alive [2017]). 

    The campaign’s tone blends humor with heart, ensuring that audiences feel both seen and entertained.

    Video 1: Debit vs. Credit – A Tale of Two Perspectives
    Meet Mr. Debit, forever frazzled by endless debits, and Mr Credit, who effortlessly sails through life thanks to his daily earnings from LenDenClub. The punchline? Daily credits can flip your world from stressed to blessed. Their playful exchange reveals how consistent daily earnings can bring a sense of ease and relief in the face of everyday frustrations.
    Link to the ad film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4lHLKxZZEU

    Video 2: Daily Gifting – The Envy-Inducing Surprise
    Imagine receiving a delightful “gift” every day. Mr Profit does, and it’s not long before his curious (and envious!) neighbor discovers the secret behind the joy—LenDenClub’s daily earnings. The result? A new convert to the daily earnings tribe and a very happy ending. The scene humorously captures how these daily credits can transform an ordinary day into something extraordinary, making even the simplest moments feel special. 
    Link to the ad film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIwT7Lp1i8g

    LenDenClub co-founder & CEO Bhavin Patel said: “We wanted to tell a story that resonates with every individual who has ever felt the weight of financial stress. Through inspiring narratives, ‘Har Din Ho Khaas’ highlights how our daily earnings feature from our lending offering can turn ordinary days into something truly special. At LenDenClub, we’re not just offering a financial product; we’re creating opportunities for happiness and stability, one day at a time.”

    Aiming to raise awareness of the benefits of daily earnings, ‘Har Din Ho Khaas’ follows the success of LenDenClub’s previous campaign, ‘Invest Like Hardik,’ which featured brand ambassador Hardik Pandya, celebrating the bold spirit of modern investing. 

  • indē wild gets wild with Ishaan Khatter

    indē wild gets wild with Ishaan Khatter

    MUMBAI: Luxury ayurvedic beauty brand indē wild, spearheaded by startup entrepreneur Diipa Büller-Khosla, today announced a brand endorsement partnership with film personality and youth icon Ishaan Khatter.

    The reason, according to Diipa is that Ishaan Khatter, as indē wild’s first-ever male brand ambassador, embodies the brand’s core values. His youthful vitality, international appeal, and artistic sensibility resonate deeply with the brand’s forward-thinking identity.

    The campaign launches globally this month, featuring the inde wild Champi hair oil and Dewy Lip treatment—products that have already garnered significant attention in the clean beauty category.  The campaign’s imagery moves beyond conventional advertising, presenting a sophisticated and evocative exploration of self-care. The visuals reimagine self-care rituals with a contemporary minimalist aesthetic, skilfully blending sensuality and strength. The overarching message emphasises intentionality, showcasing grooming rituals that seamlessly integrate effortless ease with inclusive and holistic self-care practices.

    The TVC centers on Ishaan Khatter, presenting him as the embodiment of the female gaze, and redefining male grooming within a contemporary context. The intimate and minimalist aesthetic emphasises texture—bare skin and the Champi hair oil—with the product’s circular bottle becoming a natural extension of Khatter’s persona. These images seamlessly capture moments of reflection, movement and playful spontaneity.

    An elated Diipa Büller-Khosla who launched indē wild three years ago states, “As we celebrate our launch in Sephora UK and prepare for our US debut, we’re not just expanding our retail presence—we’re amplifying our mission of inclusive beauty rooted in south Asian heritage. This campaign is a testament to our commitment to challenging outdated beauty norms.. Through this partnership, we’re showing the world that ayurvedic beauty rituals are universal, genderless, and ready for their global big moment.”

    Ishaan Khatter shares his personal connection to the Champi ritual, stating, “It’s a deeply rooted tradition, and something I fondly remember from childhood, like countless others. Balancing self-care with a busy schedule can be tough, but indē wild has helped me rediscover this ritual. It’s more than just a product; it’s a way to reconnect with myself. I love that these products aren’t just cosmetics but tools for holistic self-care accessible to everyone, regardless of gender.”.

    Hailing from a background rooted in ayurvedic principles through family heritage, and with a mother who is an aurvedic practitioner and dermatologist, it was a natural progression for Diipa to recognise the importance of combining ancient practices with modern-day wellness and clean science earlier on in her life.

    indē wild is a proud Ayurvedistry  brand – a term which has been trademarked to recognise how the brand represents a fusion of ancient Indian wisdom and modern-day science. Its  approach  combines Ayurvedic practices with biochemistry to create products that are both effective and culturally significant. 

    indē wild s journey from a self-funded Indian beauty startup in 2022 to a multi-million-dollar empire collaborating with global establishments today serves as a testament to the growing global interest in holistic Indian beauty practices and products.
     

  • De Beers & GJEPC: Indra & the natural diamond narrative

    De Beers & GJEPC: Indra & the natural diamond narrative

    MUMBAI: Diamonds are a girl’s best friend… or are they?

    The world’s largest diamond company, De Beers Group, and India’s apex jewellery body, the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), are on a mission to convince consumers—millions across India—that only natural diamonds hold the title of “a girl’s best friend.” Their focus is on educating people about the differences between lab-grown diamonds and natural ones, the latter being the glittering treasures mined from the earth that have long captured imaginations.

    To reinforce the natural diamond narrative, the two organizations have launched the Indian Natural Diamond Retailer Alliance (Indra). This initiative aims to support independent jewellery retailers in India with cutting-edge tools that go beyond traditional strategies. From leveraging artificial intelligence for tailored campaigns to providing multi-lingual marketing assets, immersive storytelling, superior customer experiences, and in-depth natural diamond jewellery training in local languages, Indra is equipping retailers to ensure that natural diamonds continue to shine brightly in consumers’ minds.

    Interactive roadshows marking the collaboration will kick off in January 2025. GJEPC members will have the opportunity to enroll in the programme. Speaking about the initiative, GJEPC Chairman Vipul Shah said, “The Indian gem and jewellery market, currently valued at $85 billion, is poised for rapid growth, projected to reach $130 billion by 2030. Indra is designed to harness this momentum by tapping into India’s dynamic young population, the rise of organized players, and increasing demand across bridal, everyday wear, fashion, and entry-level jewellery. This initiative reflects a shared vision to educate stakeholders, empower retailers, and boost consumer demand, all while highlighting the timeless value of natural diamonds.”

    De Beers Brands CEO Sandrine Conseiller added, “India’s diamond growth story is remarkable, now making it the second-largest market globally for retail sales of diamond jewellery. With its vibrant economy, growing young population, and numerous leading diamond businesses, India holds immense untapped potential. Presently, natural diamonds account for only about 10% of the Indian jewellery retail sector, far below the penetration seen in mature markets like the US. This collaboration with the GJEPC will unlock opportunities for increased consumer demand across all types of natural diamond jewellery, including bridal, everyday wear, and entry-level pieces.”

    FTC Norms for Diamonds

    Retailers can register for the programme at www.INDRAonline.in and access multi-lingual training modules focused on natural diamond product knowledge. They’ll also gain access to a market intelligence portal, customizable marketing assets, and content to promote natural diamonds at the store level, helping them enhance returns and expand their customer base.

    With over 10,500 members, GJEPC is the leading body driving India’s gem and jewellery sector. Through its large-scale IIJS Shows, multiple roadshows, and outreach activities, GJEPC has the reach and expertise to support the industry. This collaboration leverages GJEPC’s deep market knowledge, built over five decades, alongside De Beers’ extensive expertise in the diamond category.

    The collaboration aligns with GJEPC’s adoption of the updated definition, nomenclature, and guidelines for diamonds as specified by the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC). These updated guidelines ensure distinct terminology standards, fostering clarity and transparency for both industry stakeholders and consumers.

  • Sparsh CCTV teams up with Sonu Sood for Fateh to promote cyber-secure surveillance

    Sparsh CCTV teams up with Sonu Sood for Fateh to promote cyber-secure surveillance

    MUMBAI: In Indian cinema, few stories reflect resilience like that of Sonu Sood. Recognised for his contributions beyond acting, Sood has become a figure in social causes. His latest venture involves cybersecurity with the film Fateh, where he highlights the role of secure surveillance systems. Sparsh CCTV has partnered with Fateh, featuring Sonu Sood. Set to release on 10 January 2025, the film focuses on combating cybercrime and aligns with Sparsh CCTV’s mission to provide surveillance solutions that protect captured data.

    Sparsh CCTV provides cyber-secure surveillance systems designed to protect against unauthorised access to data collected by its cameras. This partnership aims to raise awareness of how secure surveillance solutions can address modern threats while safeguarding businesses, homes, and communities.

    Sonu Sood, Sparsh CCTV’s brand ambassador, represents the brand’s values of trust, reliability, and innovation. His role in Fateh amplifies Sparsh’s commitment to empowering individuals and organizations with secure surveillance solutions that combine technology with ease of use. The association with Fateh brings Sparsh’s expertise in cyber-secure surveillance to the forefront, with its cameras showcased in key scenes of the film. These integrations demonstrate their importance in fostering a culture of safety and vigilance.

    Sparsh CCTV cameras are engineered with cybersecurity features, ensuring that the data they capture is protected against unauthorized access. As a pioneer in the Indian surveillance industry, Sparsh has consistently delivered solutions that meet STQC certification standards to secure both physical and digital spaces.

    Sparsh CCTV founder & CEO Sanjeev Sehgal stated: “At Sparsh, we believe in taking steps to protect what matters most. Partnering with Fateh is more than just a collaboration—it’s a shared mission to inspire action. Our surveillance solutions made in India ensure that communities, businesses, and individuals have the tools to stay secured and protected. This partnership is a step toward raising awareness about secure surveillance and its role in a safer India.”

    Sonu Sood, the film’s lead actor and Sparsh CCTV’s brand ambassador, shared, “As Sparsh CCTV’s brand ambassador and the lead in Fateh, I’m honoured to champion the cause of cybersecurity. Sparsh’s solutions are fortifying India’s defences, and I’m proud to contribute to this mission.”

  • Siddharth Dabhade hangs up his boots at MIQ, joins Lemma

    Siddharth Dabhade hangs up his boots at MIQ, joins Lemma

    MUMBAI: After 24 years of navigating the competitive corridors of tech giants like IBM, Microsoft, Google, and Criteo, Siddharth Dabhade steps into the limelight with a new challenge.

    His journey from the boardrooms of global multinationals to the forefront of cutting-edge innovation now finds him driving Lemma’s vision of revolutionising the digital out-of-home (DOOH) landscape.

    As the newly appointed CBO, performance business at Lemma, Dabhade’s mission is clear: to take this omnichannel platform to unprecedented heights with its trailblazing, outcome-focused DOOH solutions.

    Can his wealth of expertise and transformative leadership redefine the boundaries of advertising?

    The stage is set for a new chapter in Lemma’s growth story.

    Dabhade brings over 24 years of leadership experience in the digital advertising and technology sectors. Before joining Lemma, Dabhade served as the MD at MIQ, where he successfully launched and scaled commercial operations across India and China. He has held key leadership roles at industry giants such as IBM, Microsoft, Google, and Criteo, amassing expertise in P&L management, strategic advisory, business development, and customer relationships.

    At Google, Dabhade led the travel business for India, and during his tenure at Criteo, he significantly contributed to the APAC leadership team, driving the company’s growth in the Indian market.

    Commenting on his new role, Dabhade said, “As Digital Out-Of-Home (DOOH) continues to grow, it is now at the heart of omnichannel journeys, offering brands unparalleled opportunities to connect with consumers across screens and digital spaces. I’m excited to be a part of Lemma’s vision to pioneer this shift and to lead the expansion of the new solution as a powerful tool for outcome-driven growth through outdoor media globally.”

    Lemma founder & CEO, Gulab Patil welcomed Dabhade’s appointment, stating, “Siddharth’s track record of driving growth in the digital adtech and programmatic space makes him an invaluable addition to our team. With this solution, we’re offering brands the next level of full-funnel performance driven by OOH, and Siddharth will be key in ensuring its success across markets. His leadership will be instrumental in capitalising on the massive opportunities that OOH now presents in not only shaping but also driving results through a full-funnel approach, from Outdoor to outcomes.”

    Under Dabhade’s leadership, Lemma aims to reinforce its mission to transform emerging media through programmatic adtech. The company is focused on offering brands a comprehensive outdoor-to-outcome solution, leveraging DOOH to drive measurable results. This strategic expansion signals a pivotal moment in Lemma’s journey, positioning it at the forefront of the $65 billion global OOH market.

  • Maximising your retirement corpus with SWP in mutual funds

    Maximising your retirement corpus with SWP in mutual funds

    A comfortable retirement depends on not just a well-built corpus but also a strategic approach to manage it. A Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) in mutual funds offers retirees the ideal blend of regular income and sustained growth. With SWP, retirees can withdraw a fixed sum at regular intervals while keeping their investments active in the market, ensuring financial independence and longevity of their savings.

    What is SWP and why is it beneficial?

    SWP allows you to withdraw a pre-determined amount from your mutual fund investment at intervals you choose – monthly, quarterly, or annually. Unlike lump-sum withdrawals, an SWP ensures a steady cash flow while your remaining investment continues to generate returns.

    Here’s why SWP is ideal for retirees:

      1.  Regular income: It replaces a salary, providing a steady stream of money to cover monthly expenses.

     2.  Tax efficiency: Withdrawals are taxed on the gains component only, unlike fixed deposits, which are fully taxable.

     3.  Market participation: Even after withdrawals, the remaining corpus stays invested, benefiting from market-linked growth.

     4.  Flexibility: You can modify or stop SWP as your needs change.

    Steps to maximise your retirement corpus with SWP

    1. Choose the right funds

    Selecting the right mutual funds is key. Retirees may opt for:

       . Hybrid funds: A mix of equity and debt for balanced risk and returns.

      . Debt funds: For stability and consistent returns.

      . Equity funds: Higher returns but suitable only for those comfortable with moderate risk.

    2. Set realistic withdrawal rates

    To ensure your funds last, stick to a withdrawal rate of 4-5% annually. Overdrawing may deplete your corpus quickly, while under-withdrawing may leave funds underutilised.

    3. Account for inflation

    Expenses will rise over time due to inflation. Plan SWP increments periodically to ensure your purchasing power remains intact.

    4. Monitor and rebalance

    Markets fluctuate, and your risk tolerance may change as you age. Regularly review your portfolio and rebalance to align with your evolving financial goals. For instance, gradually shifting more funds into safer debt instruments as you grow older can protect your corpus.

    Example of SWP in action

    Let’s assume you invest Rs. 50 lakh in a hybrid mutual fund earning 10% annual returns. With a withdrawal rate of Rs. 40,000 per month (Rs. 4.8 lakh per year), you’ll still grow your corpus over time because the returns outpace withdrawals. This sustainable strategy ensures that your wealth lasts longer while meeting your financial needs.

    Advantages of SWP over other options

        . Better liquidity: Unlike fixed deposits, SWPs provide regular income without locking in your funds.

       . Wealth preservation: Your corpus remains invested, offering the potential for inflation-beating growth.

       . Low emotional bias: Automation prevents emotional decision-making during market volatility.

    Conclusion

    An SWP is an excellent strategy for retirees seeking steady income without compromising the growth of their savings. By choosing the right funds, setting sustainable withdrawal rates, and accounting for inflation, retirees can enjoy financial stability and peace of mind. SWP ensures your retirement corpus not only sustains your golden years but also leaves behind a legacy for the next generation. With an SWP, you’re not just withdrawing money – you’re maximising the potential of your hard-earned wealth.

  • Matrimony.com CFO Sushanth Pai resigns ; Rajesh Sawhney becomes additional director

    Matrimony.com CFO Sushanth Pai resigns ; Rajesh Sawhney becomes additional director

    MUMBAI: Online matchmaking company Matrimony.com informed the Bombay stock exchange that its CFO has decided to go in for a separation from the firm. Sushant Pai who held the position for the past six years handed in his resignation to its chairman & managing director Murugavel Janakiraman on 8 January.  He informed him that he was pursuing opportunities outside Matrimony.com.

    The company also announced the appointment of media veteran Rajesh Sawhney as an additional independent director of the company. Sawhney is the founder, CEO of the GSF Accelerator, an investor in early-stage startups across the country. Besides, he sits on the boards of Ixigo, and IndiaMart Intermesh Ltd. He was the founder  and chief operating officer of Times Internet, and the founder president of the Anil Ambani owned Reliance Entertainment.

    Meanwhile, Matrimony.com is also scheduled to unleash its new television commercial campaign starring film star Anil Kapoor from sometime this month. Kapoor was roped in as the company’s brand ambassador in late 2024. Four films focusing on its BrahminMatrimony, RajputMatrimony, AgarwalMatrimony, and KayasthaMatrimony are to be released in January. 

  • Funskool India appoints old-timer K.A. Shabir as new CEO

    Funskool India appoints old-timer K.A. Shabir as new CEO

    MUMBAI: Being in the toys business is no child’s play. But KA Shabir is willing to take on the challenge. From 1 January 2025, he has taken on the mantle of leading the leading Indian toymaker Funksool India Ltd , part of the MRF group,  as its CEO.. He replaces the very affable R. Jeswant  who was appointed in CEO  in 2020 and  retired year-end 2024. 

    Shabir has been with Funskool for over 33 years and is an accomplished techno commercial expert who has led many departments in Funskool such as international business, manufacturing, factory operations and new product development while also driving organisational growth. 

    “Funskool pioneered the concept of quality and safety in toys and has been instrumental in raising the standards of toys in India. To lead this 39-year-old organisation which has many firsts to its credit at a time when it is expanding rapidly, is an honour. As a team, we will bring out interesting and innovative creations to make playtime a delight for children,”  said Shabir.  

    Amongst the firsts to its credit is the BIS certification for the electric toys it manufactures  in its Goa plant as well for its non-electric toys it makes in its Ranipet  manufacturing facility. It received both the certifications in October 2020, much before the government set deadline of 1 January 2021. 

    For over a decade, Shabir has been the face of Funskool in the international fora within the toy industry.  He is hailed as one of the expert voices in the Indian toy industry. Shabir’s acumen for identifying market opportunities and devising tailor made strategies for new customers has expanded Funskool’s global footprints and its exports revenue. 

    Having excelled in his earlier role as vice president – international division and manufacturing, Shabir’s transition to the new role of CEO marks a new chapter in Funskool’s growth journey.  Under his leadership, Funskool is poised to drive innovation in product development, explore new markets, win more marquee customers from across the globe, use the best of technologies to improve toy manufacturing, further the sustainability initiatives and redefine toy industry standards, says a company press release..