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Category: Press Release

  • Hanmer & Partners bags a slew of new accounts

    Mumbai, February 9, 2006: Hanmer & Partners Communications Pvt. Ltd. (Hanmer & Partners) has bagged the Public Relations mandates for a slew of top corporate clients over the past three months.

    In all, Hanmer Public Relations has won 40 new mandates in the quarter, which went by. Some of the notable wins including those accounts won in multi-agency pitches include Aviva Offshore Services, Breadtalk Group Ltd., Emirates Airlines, Enam Securities Pvt. Ltd., General Motors India Pvt. Ltd., Global Broadcast News Ltd. (CNN-IBN), Indian Institute of Management (IIM – Lucknow), LG’s IT & GSM Business, LifeCell, Optimix Asset Management Company (An ING Company), Sahara Aamby Valley Lake City & Starcom MediaVest.

    Hanmer & Partners is already working as the public relations agency for prestigious clients such as Nirma, Kinetic Motor Company, CNBC-TV18, LG Electronics, Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertilizers Company Ltd, Gujarat Ambuja Cements Limited, Goodlass Nerolac, Mudra Communications, Western Union Money Transfer, HDFC Mutual Fund, Baume & Mercier, Discovery Network, Star Gold, Star Utsav and SpiceJet Ltd, amongst others.

    Over the part few years, Hanmer & Partners has set up several strategic initiatives thereby bringing together, on a single platter, a range of services being a first in the country for a Public Relations Consultancy. In addition to Hanmer Public Relations which continues to be the core business and will remain so, Hanmer Interactive, the Digital communication division was launched in 2004. Hanmer Reach, India’s first regional PR network (also in 2004), which is now active in 20 cities and adds to the already existing 11-city network. Hanmer Events, which today is a profitable events & promotions division conceptualizing and delivering events across the length and breadth of India and soon overseas, came into existence in 2002. And finally Hanmer Advertising, a full service, fully accredited Advertising Agency which was run under a different name until recently when the Hanmer & Partners Management team decided to “dub” all brands Hanmer and bring them under a common umbrella which finally happened in the autumn of 2005.

    Speaking about this meteoric rise, Sunil Gautam, Managing Director, Hanmer & Partners evinces “Within a short span of six years, we have notched up an impressive list of clients across various practices. Today, we work with some of the world’s best and India’s leading corporate entities. It is to the team’s credit that Hanmer & Partners is among the fastest growing Public Relations Consultancies in India today.”

    Hanmer & Partners, with a presence in 31 cities in India, offers a bouquet of services including strategic counseling, corporate image management, brand support, financial public relations, events and promotions, and crisis communications, apart from media relations.

    The company is also the sole affiliate of Manning, Selvage & Lee, US, (part of the Publicis Group) which is one of the leading global public relation firms, and has an alliance with advertising firms Saatchi & Saatchi, Ambience Publicis, Publicis India, Mudra Communications and Network Advertising.

    For further information on the services offered by Hanmer & Partners Communications Private Limited please log onto www.hanmerpr.com, www.hanmeradvertising.com, www.hanmerevents.com or contact

    Sunil Gautam
    Hanmer & Partners Communications Pvt. Ltd.
    Cell Phone: 098200-33755
    E-mail: sunilgautam@hanmerpr.com

    Jaideep Shergill
    Hanmer & Partners Communications Pvt. Ltd.
    Cell Phone: 098210-42514
    E-mail: jaideep@hanmerpr.com

  • New 2006 edition of Limca Book of Records unveiled

    Showcases over 10,000 awe-inspiring feats in 18 easy- to-understand-sections describing the highest levels of human endurance and seemingly impossible achievements

    • Atul Singh, President and CEO of Coca-Cola India, felicitated Padma Vibhushan Shri Satish Gujral and Dr. Vijaypat Singhania, renowned industrialist and aviator, J.N Kaul, President, SOS Villages, all being part of the eminent “People Of The Year” section in the 2006 edition of the record book
    • As part of the launch of Limca Book Of Records 2006, inspiring efforts of some of the record holders were also recognized – Cdr Uday K. Sondhi, Shaurya Chakra winner and a helicopter pilot with special abilities and Nishant Kasibhatla, record holder for memorizing 200 binary numbers in just 3 minutes 21 seconds and recall them in 5 minutes
    • With the launch of the 2006 edition, the record book entered into its 17th year of tribute to Indian achievers from across the globe. Limca Book of Records was first launched in 1990
    • Out of a total of 18 sections, some of the most interesting chapters include Human Story, Education, Medical Sciences, Business, Sports, Nature, Adventure etc

    New Delhi, 8th June 2006 – Limca Book of Records marking the beginning of an all-new year of Indian records was launched at a special ceremony. With 18 refreshing & informative sections, the record book celebrates over 10,000 remarkable achievements of Indians from around the world. The book was unveiled amidst a felicitation ceremony by Atul Singh, President and CEO of Coca-Cola India and Vijaya Ghose, Editor – Limca Book of Records for the “People of the Year” including Shri Satish Gujral, India’s world-renowned painter, sculptor, muralist, graphic designer and architect, ace aviator and industrialist Dr. Vijaypat Singhania Chairman Emeritus of Raymond Ltd and J.N Kaul- President of SOS Villages, a renowned NGO providing shelter to orphaned and homeless children. Also present were record holders, Shaurya Chakra winner Cdr. Uday K. Sondhi (the only Indian to be cleared to fly a helicopter with an artificial leg), and Nishant Kasibhatla (has the unmatched ability to memorize 200 binary numbers in just 3 minutes 21 seconds and recall them in 5 minutes without any mistake).

    The 17th avatar of the Limca Book Of Records incorporates achievements across 18 ‘buzzing’ fields like Medical Science, Radio, television, Entertainment, Transport etc. showcasing records made and broken across India giving out a wealth of information to readers of all age groups. There are interviews with 10 leading personalities – Shuba Mudgal, Ekta Kapoor etc. The book also features SOS villages, Bajaj Group of Companies, LIC and BHEL as part of its “Doing India Proud” section. Other “People Of The Year” in the 2006 edition include Dr V. Shantha, Magsaysay award winner and Chairperson of Cancer Institute and Joshna Chinnappa, first Indian to win U-19 British Junior Squash title and the youngest national women’s champion.

    Speaking on the occasion Atul Singh, President and CEO Coca-Cola India said, “We at Coca-Cola India are proud to launch the all-new and invigorated Limca Book of Records 2006. This book goes beyond just paying tribute to Indians who have the drive to excel; it in fact inspires us to believe that nothing is impossible. The record book is clearly a succinct summarization of India at her best.”

    According to Vijaya Ghose, Editor of the Limca Book of Records, “Limca Book of Records has since its inception in 1990, been a book with the aim to seek out, encourage and applaud efforts of Indians conquering the impossible. Over the years we have diversified our sections, changed the records, added new types of entries and changed the look of book time and again. Today, the book has truly become the most trusted and the most valued infotainment source, read as much for its authenticity as for its presentation of rare and little-known facts.

    About Limca Book of Records

    Limca Book of Records is an extension of the Limca brand. Launched in India in 1990, it is the second book of records in the world after Guinness Book of Records. The book aims to identify people who have the spirit to excel and follow their goal with single-minded passion. It lays emphasis on unique achievements of our countrymen and is a salute to all those people who want to do something different and be remembered for their distinctive deeds. Being the first of its kind, this book was an instant hit with people from all generations.

    The book divides records into easy sections like Agriculture, Education, Business, Sports, Nature, Adventure, etc. In its efforts to recognize the best in all fields, starting 1992, the book selected outstanding achievers in their chosen field. Called ‘People of the Year’, it included stalwarts like Ameen Sayani, Koneru Humpy, Chandrababu Naidu, Prannoy Roy, Bachendri Pal. The People of the Year for 2005 included Dr Naresh Trehan, Mike Pandey, Lt. Col. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, Sheila Dixit and Navin Gulia. While this year’s list includes – Satish Gujral, J. N Kaul, Dr. V. Shantha, Dr. Vijaypat Singhania and Joshna Chinnapa

    About Coca-Cola

    The Coca-Cola Company is the world’s largest beverage company. Along with Coca-Cola, recognized as the world’s most-valuable brand, the Company markets four of the world’s top five soft drink brands, including Diet Coke, Fanta and Sprite, and a wide range of other beverages, including diet and light soft drinks, waters, juices and juice drinks, teas, coffees and sports drinks. Through the world’s largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy the Company’s beverages at a rate exceeding 1 billion servings each day

    For further information please contact –
    Perfect Relations
    Sonika Hussain shussain@perfectrelations.com
    Vidhya vidhyaa@perfectrelations.com
     
  • Discovery Channel breaks the science fiction barrier with ‘Beyond Tomorrow’

    Discovery Channel breaks the science fiction barrier with ‘Beyond Tomorrow’

    Discovery Channel will showcase several such dream innovations that are destined to change human lives forever in its new and engaging programme BEYOND TOMORROW. The programme travels around the world for information on and demonstrations of far-reaching breakthroughs in a diverse range of fields – medicine, aviation, computers, space research, agriculture, transport, architecture, energy, environment, leisure and adventure.

    In an endeavour to bring the world’s attention to India’s untapped and abundant talent, Discovery Channel, in association with National Innovation Foundation, has juxtaposed Indian grassroots innovations along with the global technological breakthroughs and scientific advancements. So while the programme BEYOND TOMORROW will present stories on products like the Aquada, the next generation amphibian car from New Zealand which is as sleek on land as on water; the channel has produced a short film on Indian grassroots innovations like an amphibious bicycle, created by Mohammad Saidullah from Bihar – a conventional bicycle that can be modified to cross ponds and other water bodies and is extremely useful during floods.

    To showcase the immense talent present in the interiors of India like Motihari in Bihar, Kutch in Gujarat, Malappuram in Kerala, Discovery Channel has produced short films on the Indian grassroots innovators which it will air on the channel during the three-month long series.

    To generate a discussion on the progress, pace and potential of Indian science and innovations in the backdrop of the global examples, Discovery Channel will showcase the global and Indian innovations through a nationwide roadshow which will include a special address by some of India’s most eminent scientists and experts including: former UGC Chairman and Padmabhushan Prof. Yash Pal; Padmabhushan Dr. R A Mashelkar, Director General of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the largest chain of publicly funded industrial research and development institutions in the world; Dr. A P Mitra, Honorary Scientist of Eminence, National Physical Laboratory and former Director General, CSIR; Prof. S Mohan, Chief Executive – Society for Innovation and Development, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore; Bakul Dholakia, Director, IIM-Ahmedabad and Prof. Anil Gupta, Executive Vice Chairperson, National Innovation Foundation.

    “I have always believed that ‘I’ in India should stand for Innovation. What is most gratifying for us is to see the extraordinary blend of innovations not only in high tech sectors, where CSIR is in the forefront, but also at the grassroots level, where Honey Bee Network and National Innovation Foundation (NIF) are the pioneers. Where else in the world, would an organization like NIF would exist, which has mobilized about 50,000 traditional knowledge practices and grassroot innovations from over 400 districts of the country? I have no doubt that India is poised to be a global leader in sustainable technologies, which will provide better living conditions not only for our people in India but also the people worldwide,” said Dr. R A Mashelkar, Director General of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Chairman, National Innovation Foundation.

    Mr. Deepak Shourie, Managing Director, Discovery Networks India, said, “BEYOND TOMORROW breaks the science fiction barrier and looks further into the future to see what is now within the realms of possibility. The series is packed with amazing technological innovations and breakthrough scientific advancements destined to change the way we live. We will, for the first time ever, showcase the Indian potential providing them an ideal platform to communicate with the world. These grassroots innovators have no or little academic qualification or formal training but through their single-minded focus, unmatched passion and above all the ‘need’ have created unique products and solutions. Discovery Channel salutes their spirit of innovation.”

    IIM-A Prof. Anil Gupta and the Executive Vice Chairperson, National Innovation Foundation, said, “One resource in which economically poor people may be rich is their knowledge and innovative potential. Honey Bee Network started more than 17 years ago has created a new benchmark in the field of scouting, documentation, dissemination, value addition, protection of IPR and benefit sharing. SRISTI (Society for Research and Initiatives for Sustainable Technologies and Institutions, GIAN (Grassroots Innovation Augmentation Network) and NIF (National Innovation Foundation) with help of other Honey Bee Network collaborators such as SEVA (Sustainable-agriculture & Environmental Voluntary Action), PRITVI (People Rewarding Initiatives in Technology, Value and Institutions), etc., have mobilised thousands of green grassroots innovations and traditional knowledge from around the country. Many of the innovators have got patent in US and also in India. The technologies have been commercialised not only within the country but also internationally. Journey from the grassroots to global is bound to provide model for India to become a creative, collaborative, and compassionate society sharing its innovations with disadvantaged people in the rest of the world.”

    BEYOND TOMORROW, an 18-episode series features more than 130 stories on the latest product and service innovations that are shaping the 21st century will premiere on Discovery Channel every day in the first week from February 20th to February 24th at 8 pm and thereafter will air once a week every Friday at 10 pm. The Indian innovations will be presented on the channel during the series and even beyond that.

    Some of the innovations included in BEYOND TOMORROW*
    Aquada: A next generation amphibian! Neither a boat nor a car, the Aquada is as sleek in the water as it is on land, combining the best principles of on-road design with streamlined aquatic performance.

    BIS Monitor: Being awake during an operation sounds like a scene from a horror film, but it’s a terrifying reality for victims of anesthesia awareness. This new device, for the first time, enables doctors to monitor a patient’s brainwaves during surgery and accurately determine the level of a patient’s consciousness under anesthesia.

    Future Shopping: The store uses pay-as-you-walk technology to tick off items as you put them in your computerised trolley. The trolley also acts as an in-store GPS, guiding you to products. It can even suggest recipes and then lead you to the ingredients!

    Hand Held Translator: The biggest difficulty for a traveller to a foreign country is to communicate in the local language. Whether it be reading a menu in Thailand, getting directions in Italy, or doing business in Paris, that headache can now be a thing of the past with the help of this technology which makes you multilingual.

    *more examples mentioned in the fact sheet

    Some of the Indian grassroots innovations that will be aired on the channel*
    Pedal Operated Washing Machine: This washing machine follows a “tumble wash” system which can be operated using a pedal system that has been developed using parts of a conventional bicycle. In rural areas, this electricity free washing machine can have enormous applications and simplify the lives of many. Ms. Remya Jose from Kerala.

    Amphibious Bicycle: A conventional cycle retrofitted to cross rivers, ponds and other water bodies. Now, you will have no obstacles in commuting during floods and in areas having high proportion of water coverage like the Kerala backwaters. Innovator: Mohammad Saidullah from Bihar.

    Scooter for the Handicapped: The innovator of this product, Dhanjibhai, is physically challenged. He has modified an existing scooter making it possible for the physically challenged to ride it. The scooter has the potential to become a treasured possession for the physically challenged. Innovator: Dhanjibhai Kerai from Gujarat.

    Tree Climber: A device which makes climbing high trunk trees like palm and coconut very simple and safe. Has a direct use in the maintenance of electric poles, street lights, etc. Innovator: Appachan from Kerala. *more examples mentioned in the fact sheet.

  • Classical pianist prodigy Lang Lang on CNN’s ‘Talk Asia’

    Classical pianist prodigy Lang Lang on CNN’s ‘Talk Asia’

    Airtimes: Indian Standard Times
    Saturday, February 11 at 09:30am, 20:00hrs, 22:30hrs
    Sunday, February 12 at 06:00am, 17:00hrs and 20:30hrs
    Monday, February 13 at 09:00am

     

    World renowned classical pianist Lang Lang joins Lorraine Hahn on this week’s Talk Asia. The 23-year-old has taken the musical world by storm, playing in front of presidents and world leaders, accumulating accolades and rave reviews for his performances in competitions and festivals.

     

    Lang Lang credits his early success partly to his parents while also recalling another influential, if unusual, musical inspiration: “I was watching Tom and Jerry, and one of the episodes they were playing Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody number two. Tom was playing like a totally crazy cat! He is a crazy cat, but the way he played on that piano, I will never forget … flat fingering, fingers flying all over, that really inspired me a lot!”

     

    His performance at New York’s Carnegie Hall was especially memorable as he played a duet with his father, someone who had made numerous sacrifices to further his son’s talent and career. His father joined him at the end of the concert and played the Chinese classical stringed instrument the ehru. Lang Lang felt he was giving something back to his father, particularly so as all musicians aspire to play Carnegie Hall. And, when that involves playing a Chinese instrument, “…it’s far beyond dreams”.

     

    The young virtuoso suggests that classical music education is “…often very strict. So I think for kids, it’s not very healthy.” He suggests that instead budding musicians should treat music like art where “every piece has the fun part, the sad part, the beautiful part. But you should bring the joy from your heart and bring that out!”

     

    For more program information and details on upcoming guests on Talk Asia visit http://edition.cnn.com/ASIA/talkasia/

     

    AIRTIMES ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

  • Celebrate valentine’s day with exciting offers on eBay India

    Celebrate valentine’s day with exciting offers on eBay India

    Mumbai, February 7, 2006: eBay India (www.eBay.in), India’s leading online marketplace, announces a variety of products that you can gift your loved ones this Valentine’s. There is also a special contest open to all users who shop this Valentine’s. Answer two simple questions and win 40 iPod Shuffles or the grand prize of a 5 Day, 4 night Super Star Libra cruise to Goa and Lakshadweep for the lucky couple.

    eBay India has introduced a unique Gift Picker product finder for those of us who find it tough to choose the perfect gift.

     

    Four easy steps to find the Perfect Gift:
    1. Is the gift for a boy or a girl?
    2. Age group
    3. Relationship: Colleague, Acquaintance, Friend, Lover, Spouse
    4. Personality: Chilled v/s Hyper, Fun v/s Functional, Extravagant v/s budget, sophisticated v/s No frills, Arty v/s Practical.
    Voila, the large heart on the right showcases a few selected gift categories. And you end up with the Perfect Gift!

    There are thousands of Valentine’s gifts on offer on eBay India.

    eBay India’s Top 10 Gifting Ideas
    1. Gift Hampers
    2. Romantic Movies
    3. Branded Perfumes
    4. Camera Mobiles
    5. Beauty & Bath
    6. Watches
    7. Jewellery
    8. iPods & MP3 Players
    9. Lingerie
    10. Flowers & Gifts

    Jewellery continues to remain a hot favourite this Valentine’s and brands like Orra and D’Damas are listing an exclusive range of pendants, rings and earrings. D’damas is offering cuddly teddy bears on all purchases of gold or diamond jewellery worth Rs. 1500/-. Orra is offering a ten percent discount on all the jewellery listed during the Valentine’s period.

    To celebrate your special day, Grand Hyatt, Mumbai is offering an exclusive Valentine’s Day dining experience for a couple.

    In conjunction with Grand Hyatt, Mumbai eBay India offers an exclusive dinner package in open air set up for a couple that comprises of the following:
    ” Limousine pick up and drop from the guests’ residence
    ” A gazebo set up in colors of red and pink beautifully decorated with flowers, candles, etc
    ” A candle lit pathway leading to the gazebo
    ” 5 course set menu with an option for vegetarian or non-vegetarian along with a live food station
    ” Live romantic music
    ” Champagne Dinner: Appetiser to be accompanied with Moet Chandon Rose while the main course is complemented by Chateau Lattur
    ” Special Giveaways to include a box of Chocolates from The Gourmet Store, A bouquet of roses, Perfume and a bottle of fine wine, packaged as a special Valentine’s Day hamper from Grand Hyatt Mumbai.

    So log onto www.eBay.in and make this your most memorable Valentine’s ever.
    ****

     

    About eBay India

    eBay India (www.eBay.in), India’s leading online marketplace, is India’s biggest online trading community where anyone can sell or buy almost anything. eBay India is a trading platform offering auctions, fixed price and classifieds modes of person-to-person trading. There are a wide range of products listed on eBay India in an array of categories including Apparels & Accessories, Beauty & Health, Bollywood Memorabilia, Books & Magazines, Cameras & Optics, Cars & Bikes, Coins & Stamps, Computers & Peripherals, Consumer Electronics, Fitness & Sports, Home, Tools & Appliances, Jewellery & Watches, Mobiles & Accessories, Movies & Music, Musical Instruments, Services & Real Estate, Toys, Games & Baby, Travel, Tickets & Vouchers, Video & Computer Games & Everything Else. eBay India is a 100% subsidiary of eBay Inc., The World’s Online Marketplace®.

    About eBay.com
    Founded in September 1995, eBay (Nasdaq: EBAY) is The World’s Online Marketplace® for the sale of goods and services by a diverse community of individuals and small businesses. Today, the eBay community includes more than a hundred million registered members from around the world. People spend more time on eBay than any other online site, making it the most popular shopping destination on the Internet.

    People from all over the world buy and sell on eBay. Currently, eBay has local sites that serve Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Italy, Malaysia, the Netherlands, New Zealand Poland, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In addition, eBay has a presence in Latin America through its investment MercadoLibre.com.
    ***

  • Sanjeev Bikhchandani appointed to MakeMyTrip.com board

    Sanjeev Bikhchandani appointed to MakeMyTrip.com board

    Bangalore, February 24, 2006: MakeMyTrip.com, India’s leading online
    travel company and among the most successful Internet companies in the country, today announced the appointment of Mr. Sanjeev Bikhchandani as an independent member of the board of directors of MakeMyTrip.com.

    Sanjeev Bhikchandani, CEO of Naukri.com is a veteran in the online industry and has established some of the most successful internet companies in India.

    Sanjeev holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from St. Stephen’s College and is a management graduate from Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad. Sanjeev has vast experience across industries having worked with companies like Lintas India Ltd. and SmithKline Beecham among others. He was the Editor of Avenues – the careers supplement of The Pioneer and has also co-authored two books on job hunting and careers.

     

    Mr Deep Kalra, Founder and CEO, MakeMyTrip.com, welcomed Sanjeev Bikhchandani recruitment to the board. He said, “MakeMyTrip has witnessed phenomenal growth since its launch in September 2005 and we are delighted to have Sanjeev on our board at this time. We are selling over 1000 tickets and 100 room nights daily and have more aggressive plans for 2006. With Sanjeev joining the board, we are confident his rich experience and understanding of the online industry will give strategic direction to our growth plans.”

     

    Commenting on his appointment to the board, Sanjeev Bikhchandani said,
    “When it comes to buying travel, MakeMyTrip has changed the way travel is bought today. Earlier, the travel agent was the one who was deciding for us whereas today we have all the information to plan on our own. This shift in decision making will revolutionise the way travel is bought in India and I am pleased to be a part of it.”

     

    About MMT
    MakeMyTrip was launched in 2000 as an online travel company catering to the USA to India market. The company registered sales of over Rs 100 crores in the fiscal year ending March 2005. For the current year, MakeMyTrip is on track to achieve sales of Rs 200 crores.

     

    Headquartered at New Delhi, MakeMyTrip has served over 40,000 Indian customers and about 45,000 customers for the US – India operations. With a registered database of 130,000 NRI’s the US market has witnessed an impressive year-on-year customer renewal rate of 30%.

     

  • Spice Media Vision Announces Five Regional Movie Projects

    Spice Media Vision Announces Five Regional Movie Projects

    Strengthening its hold in regional Cinema in Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Marathi and Bhojpuri.

    Mumbai, 1st April, 2006: Spice Media Vision, in association with Pen & Camera International proudly announced their Five regional movie projects at a press meet held at Time & Again, Andheri West, on 31st March ’06 in the presence of the Directors and Star Cast of the movies. Continuing its commitment to provide good, meaningful, Spice Media Vision, aims to produce the best form of entertainment in every Genre, Language and subject, the project are:

    1) Screenplay Films Pvt. Ltd. in association with Spice Media Vision’s “ANURANON” (Bengali Movie) is a beautiful modern story on relationships between two couples and on urban loneliness in the society today. Directed by Aniruddha Roy Choudhury, it has Rahul Bose, Rituparno Sengupta, Rajat Kapoor and Raima Sen as main artists. Sunil patel, who has earlier done movies like Hum Tum & Salaam Namaste is the cameraman for this project. The story travels from London to Kolkatta, to eastern Himalayas, exploring various facets of human relationships with its twists and turns and the society’s outlook towards it.

    2) DIL DIWANA TOHAR HO GAYIL: Presented by Spectrum Media. This PEN and Camera Intl’s project is 100% complete. Directorial debut by noted Bollywood choreographer Saroj Khan. This bhojpuri movie has been shot extensively in London with all time-hit jodi of Ravi Kissen and Nagma. The tremendously popular bhojpuri pair has delivered huge hits and immense business for the earlier two projects. Other artists in the movie include Lovy Rohatgi, Kamaal, Vinod Tripathi and Asif Khan.

    3) MUNNA PANDEY BEROJGAR: This movie is directed by Manish Jain. Lead artists from the movies include the Super Hero of Bhojpuri movies,Manoj Tiwari. Bipin Bahar, singer who has to his credit several music albums by T Series, maken his acting debut in the second lead. Bollywood Popular Villian of yester years, Ranjeet also makes his debut in Bojpuri movies with this film. Other artists include Rani Chatterji, Brajesh Tiwari, Abha Parmar, Purvi, Rohail and Surendra Pal. Munna Pandey Berojgar” is a comic satire on unemployment, youth frustrations and their problems. An emotional representation of unemployed youth who are mislead and how small mistake can ruin their entire life. Unlike the typical Bhojpuri films which are family centric, this movie marks a new beginning for Bhojpuri Cinema.

    4) SATAON VACHANWA NIBHAYIB HUM: Directed by Manish Jain with popular Bhojpuri star Manoj Tiwari and Rinku Ghosh in the lead role, this movie is more than Fifty percent complete. Presented by SPICE MEDIA VISION in association with OK INTERNATIONAL, this family drama is based on a real life story.

    5) LAAGI CHHUTE NA: OK INTERNATIONAL presents this along with PEN & CAMERA INTERNATIONALS, being launched today. Directed by Sanjay Jha, it has the hit jodi of Ravi Kishan and Nagma in the lead. A thriller based on a kidnap in Lolndon. It revolves around the kidnapping scene in Bihar and the Bihar Mafia. A renowned Bollywood star will also act in the project.

    Speaking on the occasion, Ragini Sona of Spice Media Vision said, “ With Chocolate, Spice has proved its capability of producing multi-starrer (big names) big budget movie. Tamil and English movies has already been our forte and very shortly we will be announcing spate of Hindi films. We are not deviating from our original objective of making Hindi movies but on a more holistic note we are looking at promoting good, meaningful cinema in every genre and language that will create cinema with a difference.”

    She also added, “With the increased focus on regional cinema, it makes good business sense to produce movies in Bengali, Marathi, Tamil, Telegu and Bhojpuri as well. There will be a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for each regional movie under the umbrella of Spice Media Vision. And spice will always strive to create cinema with a difference. We have Sunil Shetty starrer AMAR JOSHI SHAHEED HO GAYA ready for release, a Marathi movie with Sachin Pilgaonkar, a Telegu movie to be finalized shortly. Apart from these few Hindi Projects with renowned Directors like Vikram Bhatt, Aditya Dutt, Lawrence D’Souza etc are in the pipeline.”

    Mehmood Ali of PEN and Camera Internationals, who has earlier released the multi-starrer Bhojpuri film “BABUL PYARE” said, “Currently, in a year around hundred Bhojpuri films are produced with every second producer in Bollywood announcing a Bhojpuri Project, we are proud to announce 4 Projects with the biggest names in Bhojpuri Cinema as Manoj Tiwari, Ravi Kissen and Nagma. Leading Bollywood stars are producing and acting in Bhojpuri films, which only indicates the attraction and profitability of this growing industry.

    For Further Details Contact:
    Svetlana / Riniki
    Perception Managers
    9867184309/ 26784640/ 41/ 42

    PERCEPTION MANAGERS
    503,Rushabh Apts,
    Veera Desai Road,
    Andheri west, Mumbai -53
    Tel: 55702361/26784640/41/42/30
    Cell: 9867184309/9820022491
    media@perceptionmanagers.net
    /press@perceptionmanagers.net

  • Ronald D’Mello appointed COO of UTV; Zarina Mehta is COO Hungama TV

    Mumbai: UTV Software Communications, India’s leading and most respected integrated media and entertainment companies announced that Mr. Ronald D’Mello, Director – Operations & Finance, will now take on the responsibilities of Chief Operating Officer of UTV Software Communications Ltd.

    In his new role, Mr. D’Mello will be fully responsible for the day to day operational management of the Company, including running of each of the profit centres as also all aspects of implementation, Finance, HR, Legal, cost management and business servicing. Mr. Ronnie Screwvala, CEO of UTV, will now focus on providing strategic direction in the areas of content development, revenue generation and new opportunities through organic and inorganic growth across all lines of businesses. Mr. Screwvala and Mr. D’Mello will work jointly on corporate strategic initiatives, investor management and business development.

    A professional Chartered Accountant, Mr. D’Mello has more than 15 years of post qualification experience in the manufacturing, hospitality and media industry and enjoys the distinction of being one of the longest serving finance professionals in the media industry. Associated with the industry since 1991, he has played a key role in its evolution and been an active participant in industry initiatives at various levels including State and Central Government. Mr. D’Mello joined UTV in 1992 and has played a crucial role in the Company’s evolution.

    In another development, Ms. Zarina Mehta, Founder Director of UTV and Head of Programming, Hungama TV, will now take on the responsibilities of Chief Operating Officer, Hungama TV. In her new role, Ms. Mehta will oversee all aspects of Channel operations and management.

    A graduate in Economics (Honours) from the Mumbai University, Ms. Mehta is one of the three founding members of the company. Over the last 15 years, she has been responsible for the start-up and creation of some of UTV’s major divisions and has produced over 3500 hours of high TRP, award-winning television programming in multiple languages. A multi-award-winning director of corporate documentaries with a passion for children’s television, her initial training was as a theatre actor, where she performed in several leading productions.

    Commenting on these developments, Mr. Ronnie Screwvala, CEO of UTV, says, “UTV is one of the largest fully integrated media companies in the region, and it is our relentless endeavour to ensure constant focus on our key business areas, with an eye to future opportunities. These new responsibilities for Ronald and Zarina will ensure that our current businesses continue to have a single-minded focus, while I can drive creative development, revenue maximization and new business opportunities.”

    About UTV:-
    Incorporated in 1990, UTV has today emerged as one of India’s leading and most respected integrated media and entertainment companies. From a Television Production house, it has grown into an integrated media house with interests in Television Content and Air-time Sales, Movie Production and Distribution, and Broadcasting through their group company United Home Entertainment, which recently launched Hungama TV. In fact, in the last 15 years UTV has established its presence across Asia for its creativity and professional approach to the business. Website: www.utvnet.com

    For further information please contact:-
    Purnima Subbiah / Pooja Nikam
    Good Relations (India) Pvt. Ltd, Mumbai
    Tel No: 022-23535971 / 77
    Mob: 9833100866
    Fax: (022) 3535980
    Email: purnimas@gri.co.in

  • Star Movies presents Ladder 49

    Mumbai, March 16, 2006… Fire! It’s man’s most ancient friend, but also our most ancient foe. Sure, it might toast our marshmallows and keep us snuggly in the wintertime – but when it starts ravaging our homes the truce is well and truly off. And that’s when we need firefighters! It’s time for adrenaline, overflowing action as Star Movies presents the John Travolta and Joaquin Phoenix starrer, ‘Ladder 49’, a gripping film about the life of a fireman, on Friday, March 24th at 9 p.m.

    Ladder 49 is the story of a firefighter- the loves, the losses and of course the roaring flames! Under the watchful eye of his mentor Captain Mike Kennedy (John Travolta), probationary firefighter Jack Morrison (Joaquin Phoenix) matures into a seasoned veteran at a Baltimore fire station. Jack has reached a crossroads, however, as the sacrifices he’s made have put him in harm’s way innumerable times and significantly impacted his relationship with his wife and kids. Responding to the worst blaze in his career, he gets trapped inside a 20-story building. As he reflects on his life, now Assistant Chief Kennedy frantically coordinates the effort to save him.

    This action packed, star-studded film bagged $100,572,044 at the worldwide box office. Catch some spectacular special effects and stunt work and some very impressive performances by actors like Joaquin Phoenix and John Travolta in this gripping film which will keep you glued to your seat, right till the very end.
    Experience the life of a firefighter by watching this spectacular action-packed film, Ladder 49 on Friday, March 24th at 9 p.m. only on Star Movies.

    About Star
    STAR is a leading media and entertainment company in Asia. STAR broadcasts over 50 television services in nine languages to more than 300 million viewers across 53 Asian countries. STAR channels cover all genres including general entertainment (Star Plus, Xing Kong, Star Chinese Channel, Star One, Star Utsav, Star World, Vijay, Phoenix Chinese), sports (ESPN, Star Sports), movies (Star Chinese Movies, Star Gold, Star Movies), music (Channel [V]), and news and current affairs (Star News, Star Ananda, Phoenix InfoNews Channel). STAR controls over 20,000 hours of Indian and Chinese programming and also owns the world’s largest contemporary Chinese film library, with more than 600 titles, featuring superstars including Jackie Chan, Chow Yun Fat and Bruce Lee. In partnership with leading companies in Asia, STAR businesses extend to filmed entertainment, television production, cable systems, direct-to-home services, terrestrial TV broadcasting, wireless and digital services. STAR is a wholly owned subsidiary of News Corporation. www.startv.com

    For further information please contact:
    In Mumbai
    Zeenat Khan Shiraz Bhavnani / Aditi Chada
    Asst. Vice President – Publicity Vaishnavi Corporate Communications
    STAR (India) Ltd. Tel: 91-22-5656 8787
    Tel No. 91-22-56305555 Fax: 91-22-5656 8788
    Email:sbhavnani@vccpl.com / achada@vccpl.com

  • Penguin India & CNBC-TV18 present the Business Year book – 2006-07

    Penguin India & CNBC-TV18 present the Business Year book – 2006-07

    MUMBAI : India’s leading publishing house Penguin and leading business news and analysis network CNBC-TV18 have come together to present the first ever Business Yearbook with comprehensive information on India – The Penguin – CNBC-TV18 Business Yearbook 2006-07, compiled and edited by Derek O Brien.

    Speaking on the initiative, Ajay Chacko, Head – Marketing, CNBC-TV18 and CNBC Awaaz said, “The Penguin CNBC-TV18 Business Yearbook 2006-07 is a catalogue of valuable information by established names like Penguin and CNBC-TV18. The Yearbook provides valuable insights and facts and encapsulates all the milestones that made an impact on the economy during the year 2005-06. This first-of-its-kind yearbook is an essential guide for executives, consultants, students and examination candidates as it is a reference on Indian business and economy and incorporates the latest figures. Making this book truly special are the feature contributions on the progress of the Indian economy by leading industry stalwarts like Nobel Laureate Amartya Sen, former RBI Governor Bimal Jalan and many others”

    Thomas Abraham, CEO and President Penguin Books India added, ” The Penguin CNBC Yearbook 2006-07 is a vital extension to our reference list. Filling a gap in the market (it’s the first ever business yearbook in India), the book produced in partnership with India’s premier business channel, will be an invaluable addition to every business executive’s shelf. The key to success today is information and never before has it been so compactly put together for the user. The book will be an annual feature with topical and thematic variations that will always ensure that India’s business community now has a one stop shop for essential reference.”

    Some of the highlights of The Penguin CNBC-TV18 Business Yearbook 2006-07 are:

    Business and Economy Timelines: A brief history of business from 7500 BC to the present.

    The Year in Review: Day-by-day developments in the business world in 2005 and 2006.

    Newsmakers: People from the business world who hit the headlines this year (2005-2006).

    Indian Economy:A complete dossier on Indian business, economy, industry and investments, with the latest figures Highlights on key issues like the rise and fall and rise again of the Sensex, VAT, PSUs and FII In-depth review and current data on key sectors like agriculture, engineering, petroleum, electronics, IT and FMCG Comprehensive coverage of the state economies and the 2006 Union and Railway Budgets.

    World Economies:Key info on the economies of the G8 countries, the EU, and major Asian, African and Gulf economies Plus profiles of the economies of all 193 nations in the world.

    Organizations: Info on the IMF, the World Bank, UNDP, WTO, ILO, FAO, OECD etc.

    Companies: Listings of major companies (both Indian and international) across industries.

    Who’s Who: Thumbnail sketches of the most prominent players in the business world today.

    Career and featured Articles by Amartya Sen, Bimal Jalan, C.K. Prahalad, Gurcharan Das, Nirmalya Kumar, Seetha,Steven D. Levitt, Sumantra Ghoshal, Thomas Friedman, Tim Harford and many more.