ITV

Category: Press Release

  • Amrita Pandey of Disney joins Junglee Pictures ‏and Times Studios Originals as the CEO

    Amrita Pandey of Disney joins Junglee Pictures ‏and Times Studios Originals as the CEO

    The Times Group has been focussed on building a strong domain in Scripted Content. While the success of Junglee Pictures has already made a significant impact in Feature Film Entertainment, Times Studios Originals had also been set up with a clear intent to develop Digital Video Content of relevance to all streaming platforms.

    The Times Group has now announced the consolidation of these two businesses under unified leadership. They have appointed Amrita Pandey as CEO of both Junglee Pictures & Times Studios Originals.  

    Amrita is an experienced movie industry professional and M&E leader, with a career spanning over 16 years at UTV and The Walt Disney Company. Across her career, she has managed the Studio P&L of the then largest Indian Studio (UTV, then Disney) and has been an integral part of creative and greenlighting decisions. She has set up and run the content distribution business for the company, managed theatrical marketing & distribution and built strong relationships within the creative community.

    She has worked on over 200 movies across languages, including iconic films like Rang De Basanti, Jodhaa Akbar, Barfi, Life in a Metro, Rowdy Rathore, Oye Lucky Lucky Oye, No One Killed Jessica, Kai Po Che, Chennai Express, Kaminey, PK, Haider, ABCD, Dangal and many more. Her team set box office benchmarks not just in India but also in markets like China, North America and Korea.

    Alongside her Studio role, Amrita also led the Content & Channels Distribution role for the South East Asia and India regions for Disney. She was responsible for driving digital and streaming service partnerships, including Disney’s first content deals in the region with Netflix, Amazon, Jio and Hotstar.

  • ASCI upheld complaints against 114 advertisements out of 206. 49 other advertisements promptly withdrawn, 43 were not objectionable

    ASCI upheld complaints against 114 advertisements out of 206. 49 other advertisements promptly withdrawn, 43 were not objectionable

    MUMBAI: During the month of April 2019, ASCI investigated complaints against 206advertisements, of which 49 advertisements were promptly withdrawn by the advertisers as soon as they receivedthe ASCI communication. The Consumer Complaints Council (CCC) of ASCI upheld complaints against 114advertisements out of 157advertisements evaluated by them. Of these 114 advertisements,59belonged to the education sector, 35 belonged to the healthcare sector, five to personal care,two to the food & beverages sectorand 13were from the ‘others’ category.

    The CCC observed that one renowned cricketer was endorsing a prominent brand for payment gateway, implying leadership claim and presenting the product as a “card” which was not substantiated and was misleading. A well known refrigerator brand’s claim of keeping vegetables fresh for up to 30 days was considered to be misleading. In one instance, “100% Genuine Medicines” claim by an online pharmacy was not substantiated with any verifiable supporting data such as a list of registered FDA approved pharmacies supplying the said medicines. A learning app was making a claim of millions of students learning from their app which was not substantiated. 

    A large number of complaints were pertaining to the education sector wherein the advertisers were making unsubstantiated claims of they being No. 1, winning awards or “100% placement” luring students.The CCC also came across a significant number of advertisement of hospitals and clinics making unsubstantiated claims about their services being the best, they being bestowed various awards or the hospitals being able to curevarious conditions ranging from infertility to piles, diabetes, HIV and Cancer.

    Mr D Shivakumar, Chairman, ASCI said,“Over the last three decades, we have worked on many fronts to ensure awareness and acceptance of self-regulation in advertising. More recently ASCI has launched its digital campaign “Self-Regulate before it is too late”, towards encouraging better industry participation for protecting self-regulation of advertising. It is important that advertisers work together with ASCI to build a strong and cohesive self-regulatory ecosystem to ensure that advertising stays trustworthy and independent of external controls.”

    HEALTHCARE: – 35advertisements complained against

    •    Direct Complaints (Threeadvertisements)
    •    Suo Motu Surveillance by ASCI (32advertisements)

    EDUCATION: – 59advertisementscomplained against

    •    Direct Complaints (Four advertisements)
    •    Suo Motu Surveillance by ASCI (55advertisements)

    FOOD AND BEVERAGES: – 2advertisementscomplained against

    •    Direct Complaints (Twoadvertisements)

    PERSONAL CARE: – 5advertisement complained against

    •    Direct Complaints (Threeadvertisement)
    •    Suo Motu Surveillance by ASCI (Twoadvertisements)

    OTHERS: – 13advertisements complained against

    •    Direct Complaints (Eightadvertisements)
    •    Suo Motu Surveillance by ASCI (Fiveadvertisements)

    DIRECT COMPLAINTS

    The advertisements given below were complained against by the general public or by industry members. Of the 70advertisementscomplained against, for 8 cases the advertisements were promptly withdrawn by theadvertiser on receiving ASCI communication.For the remaining 62 advertisements, complaints against 20 advertisements were upheld by the CCC of whichfour belonged to the Education sector,  threebelonged to Healthcare sector, threetoPersonal Care sector,two belonged to the Food & Beverages sector,  and eightto the ‘Others’ category.

    Education

    The CCC found that the claims made in following two advertisements were misleading by exaggeration and  exploited consumers’ lack of knowledge and lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of consumers. The advertisements also violated ASCI’s Guidelines for Advertising for Educational Institutions and Programs.

    1.    Toppr Technologies Pvt Ltd (Toppr Learning App): The print advertisement’s claim, “7 Million students are learning on Toppr” was not substantiated with authentic supporting evidence or with an independent audit or a verification certificate. 

    2.    LegalEdge Tutorials: The advertisement’s claim, “Crack CLAT in 55 Days” was not substantiated with verifiable supporting data. The claim “India’s Best Institute for CLAT” was not substantiated with any market survey data, or with verifiable comparative data of the advertiser’s coaching institute and other similar coaching institutes in India, to prove that it is better than the others in providing coaching for students for CLAT, or through an independent third party validation. 

    Complaints against advertisements of two educational institutes listed below wereUPHELD mainly because they mademisleading and unsubstantiated claims such as providing 100% job placement guarantee  OR claiming to be the No.1 in their respective fields.

    Goal Institute, 
    Mumbai College of Hotel Management and Catering Technology.

    Healthcare  

    Following advertisements in the healthcare sector were found to be misleading that exploit consumers’ lack of knowledge and could lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of consumers 

    1.    Meenakshi Mission hospital & research centre: The television advertisement’s claims (as translated to English), “Our Meenakshi Mission hospital, first laparoscopy treatment was done in world level”, “In 1993, world’s first laparoscopy treatment was done to remove lung and liver tumours” and “……. Always first, ……..” were not substantiated with verifiable data such as comparison with other hospitals worldwide to prove that they werethe first to perform laparoscopic surgery to remove lung and liver tumours, or any audited market survey data, or through a third-party validation. 

    2.    PharmEasy: The advertisement claim, “100% Genuine Medicines” was not substantiated with any verifiable supporting data such as a list of registered FDA approved pharmacies who have tie-ups with the advertiser and how the advertiser ensures that all medicines supplied are 100% genuine. 

    3.    Sharanya Avenue(Know health- Summer weight loss 2019): The advertisement’s claim, “Up to 10kgs in one month with dietician Neha…!”, was not substantiated their treatment procedure for weight reduction nor did they provide evidence of their customers who achieved the claimed results of over 10 kg weight loss regardless of their physiological status with dietician Neha.  Claim, “1000 plus satisfied clients” was not substantiated with supporting evidence of the clients who have been successfully treated at the advertiser’s clinic. Also the claim, “Top 3 Winner Awards” was not substantiated with copy of the award certificates, details of the criteria for granting the award, references of the award received such as the year, source and category, and details about the awarding body, and is misleading by omission of disclaimer to qualify the same.   

    Personal Care 

    1.    Hindustan Unilever Ltd (IndulekhaBringha Shampoo):It was concluded that IndulekhaBringha Hair Cleanser is not directly beneficial for hair growth like IndulekhaBringha oil. The advertisement called out benefits of Indulekha Oil and presented Indulekha Hair Cleanser as additional product.  The Hair cleanser product depicting mnemonic of hair root identical to that shown on the oil product pack and claiming “prevents hair fall” was therefore considered  to be misleading.  The disclaimer in fine print at the back of the package stating `hair fall due to breakage’, was in violation of ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers.

    2.    Hindustan Unilever Ltd (Dove Intense Repair Shampoo & Conditioner): The advertisement’s claim, “New” was not substantiated for the product formulation. The new packaging used a theta sign (θ) on a red background where the word NEW is mentioned; However, it was not shown as to what aspect of the product is new anywhere on the front of the container. On the rear side of the pack, it has been mentioned that NEW refers to ‘New Pack and Formulation’.Furthermore, in the advertisement, although it has been mentioned the word NEW (Naya) means new pack & new formulation, there is nothing to indicate that in fact there is a new formulation. The advertiser did not submit any authentic and verifiable evidence comparing the composition of the old formulation of Dove Intense Repair and the re-launched version. Advertiser did not submit physical sample of the old products as well. It was concluded that the claim “New” was not substantiated for the product formulation and was misleading by implication. The advertisement also contravened ASCI Guidelines on claiming “New/Improved”. 

    3.    Lotus Herbals Ltd (YouthRx Anti-Ageing transforming crème): The advertisement claim, “Contains Ground breaking Gineplex Youth Compound derived from potent natural ingredients that are clinically proven to accelerate lifting and firming”, and “The potent active ingredients include ginseng which activates cell metabolism and boosts collagen production and ginger which has more than 40 antioxidants and milk peptide” were not substantiated with technical details, composition of the product and evidence of product efficacy. The claims are misleading by exaggeration.

    Food and Beverage

    The CCC found that the claims made in the following two advertisements were misleading that exploit consumers’ lack of knowledge and lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of consumers.

    1.    NESTLE INDIA LTD (NesPlus Multigrain Kokos): The advertisement’s claims, “Stays Crunchy even in warm milk” and “Jo RahegaGaramDoodh me bhiKadak” were supported with data that the product remains “crispy” for up to four minutes in warm milk. Reference to this time period was missing in the advertisement. The TVC and print advertisement was misleading by omission and ambiguity, andin contravention of ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers.

    2.    United Breweries Ltd (Kingfisher Radler Bottle Artwork, Kingfisher Radler Lemon Can Artwork): The television advertisement’s claim, “100% natural”, is in violation of the FSSAI Notification dated 19th November 2018 (Schedule V), which refrains advertisers from using “natural” in the advertisement unless it meets certain criteria. As per the FSSAI Notification “Composite foods cannot be described directly or by implication as `natural’ but may be described as `made from natural ingredients’. Based on this observation, it was concluded that the claim, “100% Natural” for this composite beverage was misleading and is in contravention of the ASCI Code. 

    Others    

    The CCC found that the claims made in the following seven advertisements were misleading that exploit consumers’ lack of knowledge and lead to widespread disappointment in the minds of consumers. 

    1.    EUREKA FORBES LTD (Dr.Aquaguard NRICH range of ROs): The advertisement’s claim, “Optimum amount of Micronutrients” / “Balanced Copper in Every Drop” was unsubstantiated and misleading by implication. The product configuration is based on BIS Standards and not on RDA standards, therefore, claims are related to safety and not to nutrients. The claim “Get equivalent power of dry-fruits” was not adequately substantiated as the composition as well as the overall bioavailability and nutritional value of ROs and Dry Fruits products are not comparable. The claim “Equipped with most advanced Patented Technologies Active Copper Maxx, Biotron and Mineral Guard” was misleading by implication as the grant for the patent is still under process.

    2.    MastercardIndia: The television advertisement’s claim with celebrity MS Dhoni, “Bharat Ka Card”, implies leadership claim which was not substantiated, and is misleading by ambiguity. It was observed that while the advertiser has taken a stance that their Mastercard is a payment gateway, the visual in the TVC shows a physical card. Also it was observed that there was no evidence showing the Celebrity, Mr. M.S. Dhoni had done due diligence prior to the endorsement. There was a violation of Guidelines for Celebrities in Advertising.

    3.    Times Network Ltd (ET Now): The channel in their promos circulated the BARC data claim to be the No.1 channel starting 14th Feb 2019 during Week 6,7,8,9 & 10. The BARC advisory dated 31st January 2019 which was updated on 14th February 2019, was applicable during the period of the advertisement complained against. In the context of impermissible use of BARC data, the CCC concluded that the TV Promos contravened Chapter I.3 of the ASCI Code.

    4.    Paisabazaar Marketing and Consulting Private Limited:The advertisement’s claim, “2 minute mein loan approval” (“Loan Approval* in 2 minutes”) regardless of the disclaimer, “…..*Provisional Loan Approval in 2 minutes”, is misleading as the key operative word “provisional” is missing in the voice over itself. The claim, “Loan Approval in 2 Minutes “with the protagonist categorically stating “fatafat paisa aapke account mein”, implies that the money would be available in the person’s account as quick as in two minutes, whereas the actual fact is that the transfer of money could take upto ten days. Any normal Customer is bound to believe that the Loan will be approved in two minutes and amount will be credited almost immediately. The advertisement is misleading by ambiguity and implication.  

    5.    IPSIT Group (IPSIT Projects): The hoarding advertisement’s claiming, “Tax Free Homes* – *Free Stamp Duty Registration & GST” at Palghar was misleading. The free stamp duty registration and GST was available to customers who purchase the flat at the given rate and not at a negotiated rate. The terms and conditions for the offer were not readily available for the customer or on the advertiser’s website. 

    6.    Brandzstorm India Marketing Pvt. Ltd.  (Luxxuberance): The advertisement’s claim, “India’s first multi brand handbag and accessories store”  was not substantiated with any verifiable comparative data nationwide, of the advertiser’s store and other similar stores to prove that they are the first store in India that sells multi brand handbags and accessories. The claim is misleading by exaggeration.

    7.    Voltas Ltd. (Voltas Beko Refrigerator): The advertisement’s claim, “…tees din taksabziyaan fresh rahengi”, (Vegetables will remain Fresh up to 30 days) was not substantiated, and is misleading by ambiguity, implication, and exaggeration. The disclaimer in the advertisement talks of `specific vegetables’ remaining fresh which is contradictory to the voiceover and main message conveyed of keeping vegetables’ fresh, implying that all vegetables will remain fresh. Additionally the disclaimers in the TVC were not in the same language as the audio of the TVC (Hindi) hence contravened ASCI Guidelines for Disclaimers. 

    8.    RSPL Limited (*) (XpertDishwash Bar): TheYouTube and website advertisement claim, “Big Saver Pack” was misleading. The older “four bar” pack (sold as a 3+1 free) weighs the same as the new “3 bar” pack.Hence, there is no saving delivered by the new pack, and this claim misleadingby distortion of facts, as there is no saving delivered by the new pack. 
     

  • Panorama studios international and PVR pictures collaborate to distribute films in india

    Panorama studios international and PVR pictures collaborate to distribute films in india

    MUMBAI: Kumar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak’s Panorama Studios Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Panorama Studios International Limited (formerly known as Apunka Invest Commercial Limited), engaged in production and distribution of films joins hands with PVR Pictures Limited, the film arm of PVR Limited, India’s largest cinema chain, to distribute films pan India.

    At the onset the companies together will distribute Panorama Studios upcoming film slate starting with “Batla House”, followed by “Section 375” and “Khuda Hafiz”, all slated for FY 2019-20 release.

    Panorama Studios is a diversified film studio with presence in Production & Distribution. Over the years, Panorama Studios has produced a variety of commercially successful and critically acclaimed films like Omkara, Special 26, Drishyam, Singham, Raid and Pyaar Ka Punchnama franchise and distributed more than 500 films including major Box Office successes like Son of Sardaar, Rustom, Dabangg, Gabbar is back, Dark Knight Rises, Fast and furious 6 and many more.

    On the collaboration, Kumar Mangat Pathak, Managing Director, Panorama Studios International Limited said, “We are extremely pleased to associate with PVR Pictures and looking forward to a long term relationship. PVR has regularly set new milestones in film business; for both of us, this is a huge opportunity to learn from each other and contribute to each other’s success”. Abhishek Pathak, Director, Panorama Studios International Limited added, “We at Panorama Studios with our films have always thrived to delight audiences with content-rich films. PVR Pictures shares the same passion which has lead to this association bringing audiences closer to great cinematic experience !”

    PVR Pictures is the motion picture arm of PVR Limited, the largest cinema exhibition company in the country, with 781 screens spread over 67 Indian cities. PVR Pictures is the largest studio for the distribution of Independent Hollywood films in India. PVR Pictures is a prolific distributor of Indian films as well. Over 500+ Hollywood, 200+ Hindi and 100+ regional films across genres have been released under its banner since 2002.

    Commenting on the partnership, Kamal Gianchandani, CEO, PVR Pictures Limited said, “Kumar Mangat Pathak and Abhishek Pathak’s Panorama Studios has raised the bar for the film industry by creating high quality content in multiple languages. Kumar ji has an enormous amount of experience in the business &, he has achieved both acclaim & commercial success over a long and sustained period, a tough act in the film business. We are delighted to join Kumar ji and Abhishek on this journey.”

  • Snap study finds Indians have amongst the largest groups of friends in the world, but Gen Z is starting to buck the trend

    Snap study finds Indians have amongst the largest groups of friends in the world, but Gen Z is starting to buck the trend

    MUMBAI: Snap Inc. today released a global study of 10,000 people across Australia, France, Germany, India, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the UK and the US to explore how culture, age, and technology shape preferences and attitudes around friendship. Ten experts on friendship from around the world contributed to the report to contextualise the data.

    “Snapchat’s commitment to enabling self-expression and connecting real friends compelled us to explore the attitudes, values and perceptions that shape friendship across cultures and generations,” said Amy Moussavi, Snap Inc. head of consumer insights. “While friendship may be different across regions and age groups, it plays a universally central role in our happiness and we are committed to finding new ways to celebrate and elevate it through Snapchat."

    The Friendship Report sheds new light on the nature of friendship, including:

    ● How different cultures’ interpretation of friendship impacts friendship circles: people in India, the Middle East and SouthEast Asia report having three times the number of best friends as those in Australia, Europe and the U.S.

    ● How friendship is linked to happiness and how those without friends or with overly large friendship groups find it more difficult to talk about their problems or share when they are feeling low

    ● How we consider and form friendships is most heavily shaped by when, rather than where we are born: Gen Z in the US have more in common with Boomers in India than their own grandparents

    ● Gen Z are adjusting their approach to friendship away from the Millennial desire for widespread networks and are looking for more closeness and intimacy with a smaller group

    In India, friendship is the most celebrated human relationship with a wealth of popular culture – from songs to movies – extolling its influence on our lives. The Friendship Report also provides an insight into how Indians think of and relate to their friends compared to the rest of the world.

    Indians have more best friends

    Indians have on average six best friends. Only Saudi Arabians have more with 6.6, while the UK ranks the lowest with an average of only 2.6. Interestingly, not only do people in India have more friends overall, they also want more; with 45% of respondents indicating they would like to expand their social circle. In the report, Amit Desai, a lecturer of anthropology at the London School of Economics suggested that the approach to friendship differs from ‘the East’ to ‘the West.’ He explains that in Western Europe and North America, “friendship is about finding people who are like you and bonding over your similarities.” In many Asian countries, including India, he says friendship is more relational and focuses on seeking out an array of new and different friends who bring alternative but complementary qualities to the relationship.

    Gen Z is turning away from large friendship circles

    This approach is changing for the youngest generations however; Gen Z is starting to turn away from such large friendship circles, with the lowest average (5.2) compared to Gen X having the most (7.5). They are also slightly less likely to want as many friends as possible than Gen Y, (44% to 46%), more likely to want a small friendship group of people they can trust (23% compared to 20%) and twice as likely as Gen Y to not be interested in friendships (4%). Gen Z are also half as likely as Gen Y to consider friends having a large social group they can tap into, to be an important trait.

    Love is central to friendship in India

    Whether in person or online, interactions with friends leave Indians with overwhelmingly positive emotions; ‘loved’ (55% in person versus 43% online), ‘happy’ (48% in person versus 46% online), and ‘supported’ (43% in person versus 36% online) are the three most reported.

    Indians are most ready to fall fast for a friend, 23% became best friends at “first like.” A third of Indians also say that their best friend is the opposite sex, more than any other country outside of the US. Amit Desai has researched friendship in India extensively and believes that the shift is down to a change in romantic relationships. He suggests that while marriages in urban India have traditionally been arranged by parents, increasingly young people are seeing marriage in romantic terms that include dating, falling in love and having a spouse that is also your friend.

    Honesty is the best policy

    The report shows that regardless of generation, almost two-thirds of Indians consider honesty an important trait to have in a friend (63%). This does vary slightly by generation, however, being valued most by older generations (73%) and least by Gen Z (60%), who also value humour and lightheartedness (47%) – the highest of any generation.

    Dynamics of communicating with friends has evolved over a period of time, and unlike earlier generations, 26% of Gen Z and Gen Y see technology as a boon that enables them to have more honest and open conversation, 25% Gen Y believes chatting through apps has brought them closer to their friends.

    A picture paints a thousand words

    The report also suggests that video and photos can also be an aid in clarity; 73% of Indians say that video and photos help them to express what they want to say in a way that they can’t with words. Unsurprisingly, video and images also help people to express themselves where they don’t share a native language with their friends; 29% of those from India state that communicating through the camera is more effective.

    This could be to do with language barriers. Globally, India, Malaysia, and the UAE were the regions least likely to say they grew up speaking the same language as all of their friends, and in these countries, 24% of people state that communicating through the camera reduces language barriers. Regardless of language differences, an average of 56% of people from all countries love sending video and photos because it helps them to say what they can’t with words.

    Miriam Kirmayer, an American Therapist and Ph.D. candidate in clinical psychology specializing in interpersonal relationships says that, “Any medium that allows us to share both verbal and non-verbal behavior, like video, can help us to feel closer and more connected and to navigate relationship challenges with clarity.” She also suggests that research shows that even things like emojis can help to replace the subtlety of emotion and intent which is often lost in online conversations.

  • BBC News Chinese content now live on Yahoo Hong Kong platforms

    BBC News Chinese content now live on Yahoo Hong Kong platforms

    MUMBAI: Text and video content from the BBC News Chinese website bbc.com/chinese now features on the popular Hong Kong news portal, Yahoo Hong Kong, and its mobile apps, Yahoo Hong Kong News and Yahoo TV. 

    Thanks to an agreement between BBC News and Yahoo Hong Kong, the BBC News Chinese content will be published as top stories on the Yahoo site.  The Yahoo Hong Kong homepage now features a BBC News Chinese index.  

    Business Development Director, BBC World Service, Simon Kendall, says: “This is a great development for the BBC in Hong Kong where our news services in English, Cantonese and Mandarin reach a million people weekly. We have a strong and loyal audience on the audio platform, and with this partnership we will look to further enhance our engagement with digital audiences.”

    Launched in 1999, Yahoo Hong Kong is one of the territory’s leading news portals.  Rico Chan, Director of Yahoo Hong Kong, says: “Deeply rooted in Hong Kong, we have been serving it for two decades, and it is our ultimate goal to establish a high standard and trusted content platform by partnering with forward-thinking and pioneering media to catalyse the development of media industry.  BBC News is one of the most valuable media brands globally, with positive and sharp ambitions.  Our collaboration with BBC News Chinese strengthens our commitment to our users, allowing us to offer more abundant, premium, reliable content to millions in Hong Kong.”

    The BBC’s recently launched Hong Kong bureau is home to journalists working on news in Mandarin, Cantonese and English, as well as to the commercial news operation, BBC Global News.  The BBC also has an office for BBC Studios in Hong Kong, bringing world-class drama and entertainment programmes to Chinese audiences. 

    BBC News is available in Hong Kong on TV, via the BBC World News channel; online in English via bbc.com/news, and in simplified and traditional Chinese script, along with audio content in Cantonese and Mandarin, on bbc.com/chinese.  The BBC News Chinese weekly hour-long radio programme in Cantonese, Newsweek, is broadcast on RTHK, along with the daily overnight broadcasts of BBC World Service radio in English.  BBC Minute, a 60-second news bulletin in English, is carried by Hong Kong’s Metro Radio. 

    BBC News Chinese is part of BBC World Service which delivers news content around the world in English and 41 other language services, on radio, TV and digital.  BBC World Service reaches a weekly audience of 319m. As part of BBC World Service, BBC Learning English teaches English to global audiences. BBC News attracts a weekly global audience of 394m people to its international services including BBC World Service, BBC World News television channel and bbc.com/news.

  • Celebrated stand-up comedian, Neeti Palta joins star-studded mentor panel in the new season of Amazon Original Series, Comicstaan

    Celebrated stand-up comedian, Neeti Palta joins star-studded mentor panel in the new season of Amazon Original Series, Comicstaan

    MUMBAI: After a successful season 1 of the unscripted Original series, Comicstaan, Amazon Prime Video is set to release an all-new season of the one-of-its-kind popular comedy talent hunt. This time, Comicstaan Season 2 will see India’s favourite stand-up comedian, Neeti Palta joining this season’s panel of mentors and judges including Zakir Khan, Biswa Kalyan Rath, Kanan Gill, Kenny Sebastian, Kaneez Surka and Sumukhi Suresh in the hunt for India’s next big stand-up comedian. The second season of Comicstaan will soon launch only on Amazon Prime Video across 200 countries and territories.

    Neeti Palta is popular for the female perspective she brings to comedy and is a favourite across borders, cultures and age groups. She was India’s first stand-up comedian to perform at Melbourne for the prestigious Melbourne Comedy Festival 2013. Like any good comedian, she draws influences from her life, especially as an Indian woman, the “Indian-ness” of her surroundings, daily irritants and current affairs.

    Excited about Comicstaan Season 2, Neeti Palta said, “I am excited to be a part of the Comicstaan family, a unique unscripted digital comedy reality series that is on the hunt for the next big stand-up comedian. It gives me immense pleasure to be mentoring and judging budding comics on a platform where they will be tested on their ability to crack hilariously well-thought out jokes because Joke Karna Koi Mazaak Nahi!”

    Facebook: Comicstaan@ Twitter: Comicstaan@ Instagram: Comicstaan@

    Get ready to laugh with an all-new season of Comicstaan where ten contestants from across the country are chosen to compete for the winning title and mentored by comedian judges who are experts in their respective genres of comedy. Comicstaan is laugh-out-loud funny with carefully plotted jokes, quick-witted one-liners and hilarious memorable moments that are relevant in pop culture today.

    Amazon Prime Video has the largest selection of latest & exclusive movies and TV shows, stand-up comedy, biggest Indian and Hollywood films, US TV series, most popular Indian & international kids’ shows, and award-winning Amazon Prime Originals, all available, ad-free, with a world class customer experience. The service includes titles available in Hindi, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Gujarati, Punjabi and Bengali.

    To watch Comicstaan and newest releases in Hollywood & Bollywood, the latest US TV shows, kids’ favorite toons and Amazon Prime Originals, please visit www.PrimeVideo.com or download the Amazon Prime Video app today and sign-up for a Prime membership only at ₹999 annually or ₹129 monthly.

  • Nestlé India Introduces MAGGI Fusian Noodles range

    Nestlé India Introduces MAGGI Fusian Noodles range

    MUMBAI: In line with its vision to introduce products that cater to evolving consumer preferences, Nestlé India will be launching MAGGI Fusian – a range of Asian flavor inspired noodles. This range reflects MAGGI’s strong food and cuisine expertise and our deep understanding of Indian consumer preferences. Crafted using signature herbs and spices predominantly used in pan-Asian cuisines, MAGGI Fusian will be launched in a range of three unique flavors- Bangkok Sweet Chili, Hong Kong Spicy Garlic and Singaporean Tangy Pepper.

    Announcing the new range, Mr. Nikhil Chand, Director, Foods & Confectionary, Nestlé India, said, “MAGGI brings to India, for the first time ever, an innovative range that will delight food lovers who love to explore new taste and flavours. This unique range has been specially crafted for our loving consumers. With this range consumers will be able to experience, the thrill of tasting flavours from all over Asia with the simplicity, trust and convenience that MAGGI brings in our lives.”

    The new range will be available as part of Amazon Prime Day and a limited edition assortment box has been designed for consumers (https://amzn.to/2LfLgwm). The new range will be rolling out in select cities in a phased manner.

  • Mars wrigley confectionery goes local with india inspired doublemint® paanmint

    Mars wrigley confectionery goes local with india inspired doublemint® paanmint

    MUMBAI: Mars Wrigley Confectionery today announced the launch of DOUBLEMINT® PAANMINT, a new, India inspired entrant to the freshness category.

    Inspired by the local favorite ‘Paan’ flavor, DOUBLEMINT® Paanmint is the first product from Mars Wrigley Confectionery which has been developed exclusively for the Indian market. The new product brand, under the DOUBLEMINT® master brand aims to widen its presence in the freshness category, a segment it leads globally. It is being launched on the back of extensive consumer research and shall offer the freshness of mint with the much loved desi flavour.

    Talking about the launch, Mr. Yogesh Tewari, Marketing Director, Mars Wrigley Confectionery, said, “The launch of DOUBLEMINT® Paanmint is a significant milestone in our journey in India. It is the first time we have developed a product specifically for the Indian market in the freshness category. The new product builds on DOUBLEMINT®’s proposition of long-lasting freshness and gives it a unique, local twist with a flavor that Indians are familiar with and immensely fond of. DOUBLEMINT® Paanmint is a unique, differentiated product and we are confident that the product will be well received by our consumers here.”

    DOUBLEMINT® PAANMINT offers a contemporary burst of freshness and flavor and will be available across traditional trade outlets for INR 10.

    The new product is being launched in India with the proposition Pehle Paan, Phir Naya Connecshaan. This will be brought to life through an exciting television and digital campaign, conceptualized by creative agency BBDO India. A series of three comical TVCs depict people in situations where they unexpectedly choose to eat DOUBLEMINT® Paanmint before momentous occasions in their lives.

    The first TVC depicts Pehle Paan, Phir Kanyadaan wherein a father dramatically stops the bride at her wedding altar, only to reach for a pack of DOUBLEMINT® Paanmint, which he offers to the groom.  The second film sees a twist to the proposition by way of Pehle Paan, Phir Jaan Pehchaan. Set in an office space, it follows a new employee as she is introduced to her new colleagues. Just as she extends her arm for a handshake with one of the employees, the guy, instead of reciprocating, takes out takes out a pack of DOUBLEMINT® Paanmint and offers it to her, reiterating the adage Pehle Paan, Phir Naya Connecshaan. The third film opens at a college where an awkward and nervous fresher is performing for his seniors who, in turn, are laughing at him.  Post this performance, when it is time for the next fresher to sing, instead of being flustered, he reaches for a pack of DOUBLEMINT® Paanmint. His simple gesture of offering it to his seniors impresses them, reiterating the message of Pehle Paan, Phir Gaan.

  • Malini Agarwal wins “ Woman Influencer of the Year“ at Exhibit’s inaugural edition of the Top 100 Digital Influencers

    Malini Agarwal wins “ Woman Influencer of the Year“ at Exhibit’s inaugural edition of the Top 100 Digital Influencers

    MUMBAI: Malini Agarwal was felicitated at Exhibit Magazine’s Top 100 Digital Influencers, held on June 21st at the Famous Studios in Mumbai. The boss lady won the title of Woman Influencer of The Year for her contribution to the blogging space amidst the fanfare of the stellar party.  Hosted by comedic genius Nitinn Miranni, the awards recognised the top-notch names from the influencer community across categories Technology, Automobiles, Fashion, Beauty, Food, Social Influncers, Travel, Lifestyle, Entertainment, and Social Media Personalities. Driven by Porsche and riding high on Triumph, the event was also supported by lifestyle partner GoodTimes, digital media partner MissMalini and media partner Laqshya Media Group. 

    Exhibit’s Top 100 Influncers were first shortlisted from over 1000 profiles, each based on their content, engagement and their influence on the digital generation. The top 200 blogs were then opened to public voting, that went live in early April. The much awaited awards was an initiative to felicitate the influencer and blogger community consisting of breakthrough individuals who have positively impacted netizens. 

    Malini opines “ MissMalini Entertainment was very happy to partner with Exhibit Magazine for their Top 100 Digital Influencers event, I think it's wonderful that the industry is appreciating the hard work and impact of digital influencers and taking the time to acknowledge them. It was very encouraging to see the turn out and amplification of such an event. Having been in the business since the very beginning we at MissMalini are always looking to collaborate and build up the next generation of influencers whom we work with closely in various campaigns and to create positive and uplifting content. I also love that so many young girls are finding their voice and confidence in pursuing careers that allow them to express their personalities and talents in a fun and engaging way. I look forward to many more partnerships that enhance the digital influencer market and enable millennials to live their best lives! I am also personally very proud to have been felicitated with Most Influential Woman at the awards for my work with Malini's Girl Tribe which aims to help women to live extraordinary lives through community and content”

    Commenting on the first-ever edition and an impressive line-up of winners, CEO & Editor-in-Chief at Exhibit Group, Ramesh Somani, said, “Congratulations to all the winners! It’s been a fantastic last couple of weeks putting together the most influential names in the ever-dynamic social networking space. The buzzword today that has taken the digital world by storm is – ‘Influencer’ and what better way to honour these achievers and content creators who are leaders in their own right! The inaugural edition was also extremely overwhelming for us as most of the influencers received an honour for the very first time in their lives and we’re pleased their journey to success began with us.”

    The evening gala wrapped up on a high note post the felicitation, over cocktails, canapés and a grand celebration of the Top 100 Digital Influencers. 

  • Center Fruit partners with Sony Pictures to introduce special ‘Spiderman – Far from Home’ Pack

    Center Fruit partners with Sony Pictures to introduce special ‘Spiderman – Far from Home’ Pack

    MUMBAI: Perfetti Van Melle India has announced its collaboration with Sony Pictures for its flagship gum brand Center Fruit. With the upcoming release of movie Spider-man Far from Home in cinemas on 5th July, Spiderman frenzy is at its peak. In partnership with Sony Pictures, Perfetti Van Melle is all set to delight Marvel fans with a limited edition Center Fruit ‘Spiderman – Far from Home’ pack. 

    As part of this association which was facilitated by Group M, the brand has rolled a special limited-edition variant with Spider-Man themed packaging. The roll out of the new product is also being supported with a co-branded TVC made in collaboration with Sony Pictures. The TVC is centred around the protagonist who is seen powering up in the new Spider-Man costume. The protagonist then appears to be making use of his ‘Spider-man’ powers to walk across the ceiling on the room ready to save the world. The whole sequence is brought into perspective with the introduction of the elder brother character leading to a twist. The repartee that follows between the siblings introduces the new Center Fruit product that cuts into visuals from the original motion picture trailer. The sequence is supported by the official Spiderman soundtrack that not just builds excitement but also holds the entire sequence deftly. 

    Speaking on the collaboration, Rohit Kapoor, Director Marketing, Perfetti Van Melle India said, “We at Perfetti Van Melle believe in refreshing consumer interest in our product categories with the introduction of contemporary offerings. Center Fruit’s collaboration with the Spiderman Far from Home movie ensures high visibility amongst fans, while the new flavour adds another appealing dimension to the familiar taste profile of the product. Both Center Fruit and the movie are symbiotic in their appeal as contributors to mood upliftment enhancing the ‘fun’ experience that they promise. We are certain that the new Center Fruit ‘Spiderman – Far from Home’ pack will strike a chord with our consumers across India and increase market resonance for the brand significantly.”

    Shony Panjikaran, Marketing Head, Sony Pictures Entertainment, India says "Spider-Man is one of the most beloved superheroes in India and over the years the film franchise has grown even more stronger. Spider-Man appeals to people across ages, and since Center Fruit also does the same, it was a perfect association for us. We are thrilled to partner with Perfetti Van Melle India and are sure that our partnership will lead to blockbuster results for both Spider-Man: Far From Home and the special edition Center Fruit pack.”

    The new TVC is an ode to hardcore Spider-Man fans. We hope consumers like the creative and are excited about trying the new offering says Nasar Husami, Sr. Creative Director, Ogilvy Mumbai.

    Center Fruit is Perfetti Van Melle’s flagship gum brand and was launched in 2005. It is available in multiple fruit flavours and formats. The brand had also recently introduced India’s first Tangy gum with the Center Fruit Chatpata Sparkiez, a unique combination of jelly-filled gum with a tangy taste. Both these introductions are endeavours by Perfetti Van Melle India (PVMI) to recreate products portfolios in keeping with the innovative spirit of the company and engage with consumers in a fun way.