Category: News Headline

  • Sole Searching as Kriti Sanon Steps Up in Campus’ You Go Girl! Drive

    Sole Searching as Kriti Sanon Steps Up in Campus’ You Go Girl! Drive

    MUMBAI: Who needs a red carpet when you can strut through stereotypes and crush them in style? Campus Activewear is back with the second edition of its unapologetically bold “You Go, Girl!” campaign this time with Kriti Sanon leading the charge and proving that walking your own path never goes out of fashion.

    After a hit first chapter that nudged women to own their sense of style, the latest edition of You Go, Girl! dives deeper. It’s no longer about what you wear, it’s about how you move through the world. The campaign celebrates freedom from labels and the quiet confidence of simply being yourself not who the world tells you to be.

    The campaign film, led by National Award-winning actor Kriti Sanon, captures a universal moment every woman knows too well that invisible tug of being defined by others. Kriti enters a bright, airy lobby only to be surrounded by a storm of floating labels: Too ambitious. Too bold. Opinionated. Drama Queen.

    But rather than breaking stride, she breaks barriers. Every step she takes in her oh-so-stylish Campus shoes bursts the stereotypes trying to hold her back. When she finally strides through with a smile and says, “Damn good shoes, yaar!”, the line lands with playful defiance. It’s cheeky, it’s confident, and it’s utterly real.

    The film closes with Campus’ empowering call to action “They’ll always have something to say. You Go, Girl. Move Your Way.” It’s not a slogan; it’s a mindset.

    At the heart of the campaign lies Campus’ belief that authenticity is the new power move. Speaking about the initiative, Campus Activewear Ltd. CEO and whole time director Nikhil Aggarwal said, “You Go, Girl! celebrates women who move through life on their own terms, unbothered by labels and defined by their choices. That sense of self-belief not only inspired the campaign but also lies at the heart of Campus.”

    He added that the brand’s ideology, Move Your Way, mirrors the same conviction that every step taken with confidence counts. “This campaign encourages women to take the most powerful stride, the one that feels like their own,” Aggarwal said.

    For Kriti Sanon, the campaign hit close to home. “Every woman has been told who she should be, how to act, how to look, how far to go,” she said. “‘You Go, Girl!’ resonated with me because it reflects my journey of rising above judgments, but also the everyday reality of so many women who do the same.”

    Her message? Walk tall, walk free, and don’t let the noise define your steps. “It’s about owning your choices and moving with confidence, no matter what labels come your way,” she added. “Campus has always stood for individuality and authenticity, and that’s what makes this collaboration special. Together we’re sending out a message that goes beyond fashion, one that celebrates confident self-expression.”

    Behind the campaign’s cinematic flair is Wondrlab, chief creative officer and managing partner Hemant Shringy who shaped the concept with refreshing simplicity. “Labels are meant to define until you stop listening to them,” Shringy explained. “We wanted to show that truth in a light and real way. Kriti moves through those stereotypes effortlessly, proving that confidence isn’t about proving anything, it’s about knowing who you are and moving your way.”

    It’s this blend of relatability and rebellion that makes You Go, Girl! stand out, it doesn’t preach; it performs.

    The campaign is being rolled out through a 360-degree amplification across television, print, digital, outdoor, and retail touchpoints ensuring the message walks straight into every corner of the country. From billboards to Instagram reels, Campus is taking its philosophy of movement without limits quite literally.

    And if the brand’s earlier campaigns are anything to go by, You Go, Girl! will find its stride with both young urban consumers and small-town dreamers who see movement as a metaphor for freedom.

    In a world where women are still asked to fit neatly into boxes, Campus’ latest campaign doesn’t just untie the laces, it kicks the box away. With Kriti Sanon at the helm, You Go, Girl! becomes more than a catchy tagline, it’s a rallying cry for confidence, self-expression, and a little sass.

    After all, as Kriti proves with every step the best way to silence the labels is to walk right past them.

  • Travelxp expands Baltic footprint with Cgates launch in Lithuania

    Travelxp expands Baltic footprint with Cgates launch in Lithuania

    MUMBAI: Travelxp, the Mumbai-headquartered travel content powerhouse, has made its Lithuanian debut through a launch on Cgates, one of the country’s leading TV platforms—marking another milestone in its aggressive Baltic expansion.

    From 1 September, Cgates subscribers have been tuning into Travelxp HD via the “Laisvalaikio” (Leisure) thematic package, unlocking a world of adventure, culture, cuisine, and discovery in high definition. The channel promises more than just travelogues—viewers can expect adrenaline-packed explorations, wildlife documentaries, and local lifestyle stories that transport them across continents.

    Travelxp now beams into over 119 countries in 25-plus languages, reaffirming its position as a global leader in 4K HDR storytelling. “This launch deepens our footprint in Lithuania and the Baltics,” said Travelxp  managing director, Europe & Africa Sumant Bahl. “Together with Cgates, we’re igniting curiosity and connecting Lithuanian audiences to the world.”

    Cgates’ director of legal and TV content Dina Adomavičiūtė-Matulė called the tie-up a natural fit. “Travelxp’s blend of inspiration, education and entertainment perfectly complements our offering,” she said.

    With this move, Travelxp continues to chart new frontiers—turning television screens into global passports and reminding viewers everywhere that the journey never ends, it only widens.

  • Vertigo TV gets viewers giddy with global micro & vertical dramas

    Vertigo TV gets viewers giddy with global micro & vertical dramas

    MUMBAI: Vertigo TV, the newly launched vertical drama app from One Take Media, is off to a flying start—grabbing eyeballs with its snackable, binge-worthy content that’s tailor-made for the smartphone generation.

    In just three months, Vertigo TV has packed in over 100 shows, offering a dizzying mix of Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Spanish, English, and Hindi micro-dramas. Each series unfolds in ultra-short, one-to-two-minute episodes, with entire story arcs wrapped up in 40 to 60 instalments—perfect for on-the-go binge sessions.
    vertigo TV

    “The app of today,” as founder and CEO Anil Khera calls it, Vertigo TV mirrors a fast-twitch attention economy where Gen Z and millennials crave instant storytelling hits without the drag. Every drama is shot vertically, optimised for quick breaks, commutes, or those between-meeting scrolls.

    Built to hook viewers within 10 seconds, the app’s catalogue pairs high-octane plots with slick production values and a global-meets-local flavour. Subtitled international dramas sit alongside desi originals, giving Indian audiences a front-row seat to the world’s fastest-growing storytelling trend.

    Priced at Rs 499 a year, Vertigo TV is now live on Android and iOS, and ready to rattle India’s crowded streaming scene. With its bold micro-drama format and lightning pace, One Take Media isn’t just chasing attention—it’s rewriting how India watches stories, one vertical at a time.

    For partnerships, email info@onetakemedia.in or visit www.onetakemedia.in

  • From print to AI how news keeps up with times

    From print to AI how news keeps up with times

    MUMBAI: Wake up, check your phone, catch a podcast, scroll a story, news never sleeps. At a lively session on “Credibility in the Age of Chaos & Media’s Role in Shaping India’s Identity,” India Today Group vice chairperson and editor-in-chief Kalli Purie joined Business Standard columnist and author Vanita Kohli-Khandekar, to explore how a 50-year-old brand stays relevant in a 24 by 7 media whirlwind.

    Purie reflected on longevity and adaptation. “Fifty is the new 25. Men age, magazines don’t,” she said, highlighting how India Today has evolved from a fortnightly publication to producing over 120,000 content pieces every month across print, video, podcasts, social media, and live events.

    Kohli-Khandekar added a sharp perspective on the challenge of capturing audience attention in a saturated media environment. “Where does news lie in this era of short stories, micro dramas, and podcasts? How does it stay relevant and profitable?” she asked, emphasising the need for integration across platforms to maintain trust and impact.

    The discussion turned to technology and AI, where Purie revealed some pioneering initiatives. From AI anchors covering Bihar elections to AI-assisted translations and folk music storytelling, India Today has been embracing innovation to increase efficiency, reduce monotony, and explore new revenue streams. “AI is like a sandwich,” she quipped. “Human bread with AI in between. The human touch has to remain.”

    Purie stressed that technology alone cannot replace credibility. “You are a primary source. People want news from a human perspective, on the ground. AI cannot tell that story… yet,” she said, hinting at a future where robots might cover hazardous assignments while humans oversee the narrative.

    The session also highlighted India’s media identity in a global context. Purie noted, “People want sources from their own country. Digital imperialism is real, but Indian media has to assert its relevance.” Kohli-Khandekar added that 24 by 7 connectivity requires news organisations to adapt fast, integrate teams across platforms, and keep audiences engaged with stories that matter locally and globally.

    The conversation showcased how a legacy brand like India Today balances tradition and innovation, human insight and artificial intelligence, local identity and global perspective. Purie’s parting thought summed it up perfectly: staying credible, creative, and connected is the ultimate headline.

  • Theatre’s role in cinema, where stage meets screen

    Theatre’s role in cinema, where stage meets screen

    MUMBAI: Curtains up, lights on, and action, but the roots of cinema lie on the stage. At a lively session on “The Power of Theatre in Cinema’s DNA,” celebrated actors and creators revealed how the world of theatre continues to shape the Indian screen.

    Moderated by National School of Drama director Chittaranjan Tripathy, the panel featured Swanand Kirkire, Raghubir Yadav, Rajpal Yadav, and Mita Vashisht. The discussion explored how theatrical training provides actors with depth, discipline, and authenticity that resonate on screen.

    Swanand Kirkire, a multi-talented lyricist, actor, and singer, called cinema an extension of theatre. “Drama happens in one space and one time on stage. Cinema takes the same drama and expands it across spaces and moments,” he said. He highlighted that every great film begins with understanding drama, the conflict between forces, and the forward motion of storytelling.

    Raghubir Yadav stressed theatre’s irreplaceable role in building a performer. “You can do a play without cinema, but you cannot do a film without a play. Theatre gives you everything: emotion, nuance, life. Cinema may teach dialogue memorisation, but theatre teaches you living on stage,” he explained.

    Rajpal Yadav reflected on theatre as a teacher of life itself. “The collaborative essence of stagecraft and how understanding every role, from actors to carpenters, enriches cinema. Theatre teaches zero, cinema teaches hero. When theatre and cinema come together, every element of performance becomes alive,” he said.

    Mita Vashisht discussed the technical interplay between theatre and film. While theatre delivers a live connection with audiences, cinema requires technology to capture and convey the same energy. She also pointed out that concepts like framing, positioning of actors, and set design in cinema are borrowed directly from theatre, referencing techniques like Mise en Scène.

    The session celebrated theatre as the backbone of cinema, emphasising that even with all the technology in modern filmmaking, the foundational lessons of stagecraft: discipline, collaboration, and emotional truth, remain essential. As Kirkire summarised, “Theatre gives cinema its DNA. Without it, the soul of performance is incomplete.”

    From the intricacies of acting to the careful orchestration of a set, the discussion made it clear, the spotlight may have shifted from stage to screen, but the heart of storytelling continues to beat in the theatre.

  • Punjab’s cinema makes waves worldwide

    Punjab’s cinema makes waves worldwide

    MUMBAI: Punjab is not just about bhangra and beats anymore. At the FICCI Frames 2025, a lively panel explored how Punjabi cinema is evolving beyond comedy and song-and-dance routines into micro-dramas, socially rooted stories, and web series that resonate both at home and with the global diaspora.

    Moderated by filmmaker Rohit Jugraj Chauhan, the session featured actors and creators like Manav Vij, Rajiv Thakur, Dheeraj Ratan, Rhea Arora, and Ujjwal Mahajan of Chaupal OTT. The panel delved into how streaming platforms and social media are giving Punjabi stories unprecedented reach.

    Chaupal OTT co-founder Ujjwal Mahajan explained the digital revolution behind Punjabi storytelling. “Chaupal is not just a platform; it’s a digital chowpal. Wherever Punjabis are, they can reconnect with home through our content. Every three days we add a new movie, and the momentum is only increasing.” He emphasised the distinction between “Punjab-based content” and true “Punjabi content,” pointing to titles like Satpanchi that resonate with cultural roots.

    Comedian-turned-actor Rajiv Thakur reflected on the diaspora’s influence and talent in Bollywood. “Punjabis have always contributed massively, whether in comedy, music, or film. Our language, our stories, our culture matter. There’s power in Punjabiyat,” he said, noting the balancing act actors face between Mumbai and Punjab audiences.

    Screenwriter and director Dheeraj Ratan traced the evolution of Punjabi cinema. “There was a time when you had to go to Bombay to make films. Now high-standard storytelling has returned to Punjab. Our films are visually strong and culturally rooted, and the market is responding,” he explained. He urged creators to establish local infrastructure to unleash the region’s vast talent and tell stories the world can watch.

    Manav Vij described how Punjabi cinema is reshaping itself for a global audience. “Cinema has its own language of empathy. We need pathways to run freely, to make films the way we want. Punjabi culture has a value that deserves to be seen and heard globally.”

    Rhea Arora, who has been pivotal in developing Punjab’s AVGC and animation ecosystem, highlighted how local talent is being nurtured. “We’ve brought art from Punjab to Mumbai and back. Creative talents are thriving, and the industry is evolving thanks to associations and government support.”

    The panel concluded with a clear takeaway: Punjabi cinema is no longer just regional flair. From micro-dramas to mainstream hits, the state is staking a claim on global storytelling, powered by culture, community, and creativity.
     

  • Madhya Pradesh, from heartland to global screens

    Madhya Pradesh, from heartland to global screens

    MUMBAI: Lights, camera, action, and Madhya Pradesh is ready for its close-up. The heartland of India is fast emerging as a vibrant hub for filmmaking, blending local authenticity with stories that resonate across the globe.

    At the recent session From Heartland to International Screens: MP in Focus, celebrated filmmakers, actors, and state leaders came together to explore how Madhya Pradesh is shaping narratives that travel far beyond borders. The panel was moderated by actor and voice artist Vijay Vikram Singh, who set the tone by highlighting the state’s unique blend of culture, heritage, and cinematic potential.

    Madhya Pradesh tourism board additional managing director Bidisha Mukherjee, credited the state’s success to its film-friendly policies, ease of doing business, and exotic locations. “From heritage cities like Mandu and Orchha to rural landscapes such as Chambal, MP offers a range of locations that can fit any story,” she said. The state also incentivises women-led and environmentally conscious projects, providing additional support for filmmakers.

    Speaking from personal experience, Sunny Hinduja, actor and producer from Indore, praised the warm hospitality and the homely feel of shooting in MP. “The people, the food, the culture, it all makes the filmmaking experience so welcoming,” he said. Hinduja also revealed plans to produce more content in the state, highlighting MP’s potential as a creative springboard.

    The Viral Fever president Vijay Koshy underlined the professionalism and dedication of local crews, pointing out that the availability of trained technicians reduces the logistical burden for production houses. Filmmakers also noted that MP’s bureaucracy is unusually proactive, with shooting permissions granted quickly and processes made fully online.

    Director Jitank Gurjar, hailing from Gwalior, reflected on the cultural diversity across the state. “Every 50 kilometres, the dialect, the culture, even the way people express emotions changes. Yet human emotions are universal, and MP captures that beautifully,” he said.

    Actor Huma Qureshi added her perspective on MP’s growing film landscape, “The state doesn’t just provide locations; it becomes part of the story. There is a warmth and openness here that instantly connects with everyone on set, making creativity flow effortlessly.”

    The session underscored Madhya Pradesh’s growing role in India’s creative economy. With a combination of government support, diverse locations, skilled talent, and a welcoming culture, the state is positioning itself as a preferred destination for filmmakers looking to tell stories that resonate both locally and globally.
     

  • Policybazaar launches ‘Ashray’, a heartfelt film on power of health insurance

    Policybazaar launches ‘Ashray’, a heartfelt film on power of health insurance

    MUMBAI: Policybazaar, one of India’s leading insurance platforms, has unveiled an emotional short brand film titled ‘Ashray’, inspired by the true story of a young boy whose family’s resilience and timely health insurance cover became their greatest source of hope in a time of crisis.

    The film recounts the story of little Ashray, who suffered a life-altering accident while playing with colours on Holi. His father, Sunny Bhatia, faced every parent’s worst nightmare: a sudden medical emergency that demanded prolonged treatment and mounting expenses running into lakhs of rupees. As bills piled up and the family struggled to cope, their health insurance policy emerged as a lifeline, covering critical medical costs when they needed it most.

    Ashray’s journey is one among many that reflect why health insurance is not a luxury but a necessity for every Indian household. The film serves as a poignant reminder of how unpredictable life can be and how being prepared can mean the difference between despair and hope.

    Even after seven years, Ashray continues to receive world-class neuro-rehabilitation care, a journey made possible through the family’s health cover. Through ‘Ashray’, Policybazaar underscores its commitment to making health insurance accessible, affordable, and easily understood by every Indian family, ensuring that no one has to compromise on quality healthcare for their loved ones.

    Speaking about the film, Sunny Bhatia, Ashray’s father, said, “I wanted to share Ashray’s story so that more families understand how crucial health insurance is. Life can change in an instant, and the right health insurance can make all the difference. Policybazaar has given me the platform to share our journey, and I hope more and more people see this and start taking health insurance seriously. No family should have to face such a crisis unprepared.”

    Policybazaar head – brand marketing Samir Sethi added, “At Policybazaar, we’ve always believed that the true impact of insurance lies in the lives it transforms. Ashray’s story is a powerful reminder that health insurance is more than a policy, it’s a shield that protects families from life’s most unpredictable challenges. Through this film, we want people to see the human side of insurance, the comfort it brings, the security it ensures, and the hope it sustains.”

    Policybazaar continues to work towards simplifying health insurance for millions of Indians, helping them choose the right policy, offering seamless claims assistance, and supporting families during medical emergencies. The brand remains committed to raising awareness around financial preparedness in healthcare, urging people to act today so that they are never caught unprepared in times of crisis.

    The ‘Ashray’ brand film is streaming across Policybazaar’s digital platforms and social media channels. Viewers are encouraged to watch and share the story to spread awareness about the importance of health insurance in safeguarding families against medical uncertainties. 
     

  • Haresh Anil Kumar joins SPR India as head of marketing

    Haresh Anil Kumar joins SPR India as head of marketing

    MUMBAI: SPR India has appointed Haresh Anil Kumar as its new head of marketing, marking a strategic addition to the company’s leadership team.

    Kumar brings more than 18 years of experience spanning media, automotive and real estate marketing. Before joining SPR India, he served as head of marketing at Thanthi One, where he led integrated campaigns across broadcast, digital and OTT platforms. His previous roles include regional manager at Verse Innovation, regional manager for cinema advertising at Inox Leisure, and regional sales and strategy lead (South India) at PVR Limited.

    Earlier in his career, he held leadership positions at India Today Group, Zee Entertainment Enterprises, and Bennett Coleman & Co (The Times of India), driving revenue growth, media partnerships and branded content innovation. He began his career in banking at Yes Bank before moving into media and brand strategy.

    At SPR India, Kumar will oversee integrated ATL and BTL marketing, digital campaigns and brand partnerships, with a strong focus on ROI and measurable outcomes. His appointment comes as the developer sharpens its brand identity in a competitive luxury and mixed-use real estate market.
     

  • Pvr Inox serves up India’s first luxury dine-in cinema in Bengaluru

    Pvr Inox serves up India’s first luxury dine-in cinema in Bengaluru

    MUMBAI: Lights, camera… appetiser! PVR Inox is giving Bengaluru’s cinema-goers a taste of something extraordinary with the launch of India’s first-ever luxury dine-in cinema at M5 Ecity Mall, where silver screens meet silver service.

    Fresh off opening its new eight screen multiplex at the mall, Pvr Inox is now transforming the movie experience into a full-fledged culinary and lifestyle destination. The new dine-in format lets guests enjoy gourmet, chef-curated meals in the comfort of their cinema seats, no stepping out, and remarkably, no movie ticket required to dine.

    The concept redefines what a night at the movies means. From Crosta’s artisanal pizzas and Wokstar’s sizzling Asian comfort food to Dogfather’s inventive hot dogs and Local Street’s regional delicacies, every dish is designed to elevate the cinematic journey. Add to that café corners, indulgent desserts, and lounge-style foyers and the venue doubles as a social space for foodies and film buffs alike.

    At the heart of this venture lies “youthification”, Pvr Inox’s futuristic approach to entertainment. The space integrates gaming zones, kids-first formats, and digital lounges, alongside its luxury auditoriums, appealing to young, experience-hungry audiences. “This is not just about watching films, it’s about spending time well,” said Pvr Inox lead specialist – innovation, film marketing & digital programming Aamer Bijli.

    Echoing the sentiment, Pvr Inox Limited  managing director Ajay Bijli added, “With M5 Ecity Mall, we’re inviting audiences to experience cinema in an entirely new way. From India’s first dine-in auditorium to immersive technology and curated food, it’s a celebration of films, lifestyle, and shared moments.”

    The tech is as grand as the gastronomy. Every auditorium boasts Dolby Atmos, Dts:x, and 4k Laser projection, with the Big Pix theatre offering Reald 3D visuals, and the Samsung Onyx Led screen taking in-seat dining to dazzling new heights.