Category: Specials

We aim to continue pioneering initiatives that will shape the future of environmental conservation: Prasiddhi Singh

Mumbai: As I reflect upon the incredible journey of the Prasiddhi Forest Foundation in the year 2023, I am filled with gratitude and awe for the strides we have made in our collective mission to nurture and protect our planet. At 11, I embarked on a journey fueled by passion, guided by purpose, and supported by a growing army of eco-warriors. Today, I stand before you as a proud founder, a TEDx speaker, and the youngest keynote speaker at the Harvard Model United Nations in India.

Our efforts have not gone unnoticed, and I am thrilled to share that National Geographic has showcased a documentary highlighting the impactful work of the Prasiddhi Forest Foundation. This platform has allowed us to amplify our message, inspiring change on a global scale. The recognition received, including the prestigious Prime Minister National Child Award, is not just a testament to my individual efforts but a celebration of the collective dedication of our eco-army.

In the past year, we achieved a significant milestone by planting over 130,000 trees and establishing Prasiddhi micro forests in more than 85 locations. This contributes to carbon sequestration and creates havens of biodiversity that will flourish for generations to come. Through workshops, we have empowered over 60,000 eco-warriors who are actively engaged in safeguarding the environment.

I am proud to be at the forefront of pioneering initiatives, such as our foray into Web3 Climate technology and Nature-Based Solutions, including mangrove plantations. These endeavors align with our commitment to exploring innovative ways to address climate change and environmental degradation. The G3 Project, aimed at spreading environmental awareness in every school and student in India, has taken root and continues to thrive.

The awards and recognition bestowed upon us, both nationally and internationally, motivate us to persist in our endeavors. From The Diana Award in the UK to the Earth Day Network Rising Star award in the USA, each accolade symbolizes a shared victory for the environment. Being recognized as the Youngest Fruit Forest Creator of India by the India Book of Records is a testament to the creativity and impact embedded in our initiatives.

As the Brand Ambassador for “Beti Bachao Beti Padhao” and Child Ambassador of the Green Tamil Nadu Mission, I am committed to contributing to the broader societal goals of girl child education and environmental sustainability. It is heartening to witness the ripple effects of our work, reaching diverse communities, schools, and colleges.

Our journey extends beyond borders, having touched lives in 20 countries. From beach clean-ups to supporting villagers and farmers, we have actively engaged with 400 groups and communities. The UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) provided a platform to represent our collective voice and advocate for urgent action on a global scale.

Looking forward to 2024, our aspirations are boundless. We aim to deepen our impact, expand our reach, and continue pioneering initiatives that will shape the future of environmental conservation. Together, as a united eco-army, we will persist in our mission to generate oxygen, grow our own food, and give our communities a sustainable and thriving future.

The author of this article is Prasiddhi Forest Foundation founder Prasiddhi Singh.

December 12, 2023
Navigating the media renaissance: Lessons from 2023, blueprints for 2024’s success: Aditi Mishra

Recap of 2023: Key Trends

Igniting Growth Amidst Global Challenges: The Indian Story

Despite global economic headwinds, 2023 witnessed India’s economic resilience fuelled by robust domestic demand. Spearheaded by a burgeoning consumer base, escalating income levels, and the aspirations of the youth, the nation experienced brand and advertising growth. The year’s highlights include over Rs 10,000 crores of incremental ad spends (source: MAGNA), driven by digital surges, government allocations pre-elections, major sports events, a pandemic-free festive season, and blockbuster Bollywood releases.

Streaming into the Future: The Rise of CTV Advertising

A pivotal shift unfolded in India’s media landscape as Connected TV (CTV) took centre stage. Anticipating 40-45 million Daily Active Users by 2025, the CTV ecosystem burgeoned from 25 million in the previous year. Notably, Samsung TV users in India spent 88% of their TV time in streaming environments during H1 2023. This surge democratised advertising for smaller brands, leveraging the data collation and targeting prowess of digital platforms.

Revival Resonance: OOH, Radio, and Cinema Shine

Contrary to expectations, Out-of-Home (OOH) and radio experienced a revival, fuelled by OTT platforms, FMCG giants, and the automotive sector. The cinema space, against all odds, emerged as a resilient advertising haven, captivating audiences and delivering impactful brand engagements. The unexpected resurgence of these traditional mediums showcased their enduring relevance in the dynamic media landscape.

Outlook for 2024: Key Trends

Unlocking Tomorrow: Gen AI and ML Revolution

Embracing the future, 2024 will witness the ascendancy of Generative AI, reshaping advertising landscapes. Marketers will harness AI for personalised campaigns, seamless AR/VR integration, and compelling CGI campaigns. The adoption of AI, ML, and deep learning will revolutionise consumer engagement, allowing businesses to decipher behaviour, preferences, and purchase patterns, fostering enhanced understanding and segmentation of target markets.

Monetisation maven: Platforms’ race for revenue

The battleground for revenue intensifies in 2024 as tech platforms vie for supremacy in monetising their services. Despite boasting the world’s highest user bases, platforms seek new avenues for revenue generation. Prioritising data protection, user understanding, and augmented advertising offerings, platforms will delve into innovative user monetisation, with subscriptions and digital commerce taking centre stage.

Sustainable storytelling: ESG in the limelight

A paradigm shift unfolds as sustainability takes centre stage. Consumers’ environmental consciousness propels a preference for brands committed to sustainability, carbon emission reduction, and ethical trade practices. Marketers are tasked with weaving eco-friendly messaging into campaigns, showcasing a commitment to environmental responsibility. Businesses, aligning with a more inclusive economy and sustainable environment, will position sustainability as a core aspect of their overarching business strategy.

In conclusion: Navigating the media maelstrom of 2024

As we step into 2024, personalised customer experiences, sustainability pledges, authentic storytelling, and adaptability remain pivotal strategies for brands and marketers navigating the intricacies of the ever-changing media sphere. Embracing these principles, the industry is poised for a transformative journey into the future.

This article has been authored by Lodestar UM CEO Aditi Mishra.

December 11, 2023
KelpHR marks 10 years with 4th edition of KelpHR PoSH Awards 2023 for safer workplaces

Mumbai: KelpHR, one of India’s leading HR solutions provider, is delighted to unveil the much-anticipated fourth edition of the KelpHR PoSH Awards 2023. This event will shine a spotlight on the top 25 safest workplaces in India. The award ceremony will be held in Mumbai on 7 December 2023, in attendance will be global organisations, industry experts, and luminaries to recognise and honour the pillars of workplace safety and inclusion.

KelpHR takes a significant stride this year by introducing “The Torchbearers” or the Triple Safety Award. This distinctive accolade acknowledges organisations that have been consistently honoured as the top 25 safest workplaces in India at the KelpHR PoSH Awards for three consecutive years, commencing in 2021. The Triple Safety Award aims to commend organisations that have displayed an unwavering commitment to preventing sexual harassment.

The KelpHR PoSH Awards 2023 will be presided over by chief guest – Director General of Police, Railways, Maharashtra State, Dr. Pradnya Saravade (IPS), and keynote speaker Kashish Mumbai International Queer Film Festival director Sridhar Rangayan. This event will be MC’d by Nishtha Nishant, a prominent transgender personality who embodies the event’s distinctive and inclusive culture. The event will also draw attendance from essential stakeholders, including HR heads/CXOs of the 50 finalist organisations, jury members, well-wishers, and the KelpHR team and board members.

The fourth edition showcases an esteemed panel of judges providing valuable insights for the creation of inclusive environments. This year’s jury comprises Dr. Dharaniikota Suyodhan, International commercial and corporate lawyer; Pernod Ricard India chief inclusion & diversity Zainab Patel; VIDHI Centre for Legal Policy co-founder and lead Alok Prasanna Kumar; practising lawyer & chevening scholar Vaishali Shintre-Bhagwat; Bombay High Court advocate CJ Joveson; Aspire for Her founder & CEO Madhura Dasgupta Sinha; and Diversity Simplified founder & chief consultant Tina Vinod.

KelpHR recently released the results of its employee survey conducted across the 30 organisations who were finalists at the KelpHR PoSH Awards 2022; which garnered an impressive 15,206 responses. The survey sheds light on the prevalence of workplace harassment and the imperative need for proactive measures. Among the key findings:

1 409 individuals out of 15,206 respondents reported being victims of sexual harassment in the workplace.

2 119 of the victims held managerial positions, underscoring the need to address this issue at all levels of the organisation.

3 69 per cent of the victims chose not to report the incidents, emphasising the necessity for a more conducive environment for reporting.

4 Out of 5,217 surveyed women, three per cent reported facing workplace harassment.

5 Among 9,921 surveyed men, three per cent also reported harassment.

These statistics highlight the critical importance of fostering a workplace culture that actively addresses and prevents harassment, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all employees. The KelpHR PoSH Awards serve as a platform to recognise organisations actively working towards eliminating harassment and championing the cause of safer workplaces.

KelpHR CEO & co-founder Smita Shetty Kapoor stated, “As we commemorate the 10-year anniversary of the POSH Act on December 9, 2023, we stand firm in our belief that every employee deserves to work in an environment that is not only compliant but goes above and beyond to create a culture of safety. The KelpHR PoSH Awards are our way of recognising and celebrating organisations that share this commitment. It is an honour to be part of a movement that encourages the continuous improvement of workplace safety and inclusivity.”

The esteemed recipients of the KelpHR PoSH Awards in 2023 comprise prominent entities such as Indigo Airlines, Uber India, DBS Technology Solutions India, Tata Consulting Engineers Ltd, Swiss Re, Aditya Birla Fashion & Retail Limited and numerous other organisations spanning a wide array of sectors, including automotive, aviation, consulting, IT, ITES, Pharma, manufacturing, financial services, and social service.

December 6, 2023
Gujarat to boost India’s sports industry with first-ever Sports Startup Conclave

Mumbai: With an aim to boost India’s sports startup market and encourage upcoming businesses to prosper, Gujarat government will be hosting the country’s first-ever Sports Startup conclave at TransStadia University in Ahmedabad on 11 December.

The Gujarat Sports Startup Conclave will be an intersection between sports and business in alignment with the Government of Gujarat’s vision of the growth of sports in India and recognise the outstanding achievements in the sports business landscape in the country. One of the key component of the conclave is sports startup awards wherein a total of Rs 2.5 million cash prize shall be awarded to the top three winners. This flagship event will be hosted in the lead-up to Vibrant Gujarat — India’s marquee international investor summit, conceptualised under the visionary leadership of Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

India’s economy is already growing rapidly and the Morgan Stanley report stated that the nation will emerge as the third-largest economy in the world by 2027. Sports industry has been one of the key factors in this growth with the Indian sports industry’s spending crossed over Rs 14,000 crore, according to the GroupM ESP’s Sporting Nation Report 2023.

The conclave aims to spotlight the startup community which has been working to highlight innovative strategies, technological advancements and transformative initiatives that are reshaping the dynamics of the world of sports and business. This unique opportunity will provide a platform to many sports startups to showcase their strategies, plans, growth and impact as the five best startups will be recognised as winners with cash awards and mentorship.

Organised by the Government of Gujarat and the Sports Authority of Gujarat, the conclave is partnered with TransStadia University and Sportscom Industry Confederation and backed by iCreate, i-Hub, the strong incubation setups which have been working with the Gujarat Government to facilitate ‘Next Generation Entrepreneurship’. While i-Hub is envisioned to be a center for all startup stakeholders to develop an end-to-end innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem in the state of Gujarat, iCreate is India’s leading institution for transforming tech innovation-based startups into successful businesses in Gujarat and across India.

The conclave will not only showcase India’s potential as a sporting powerhouse but also bolster the startup economy and the growth progress of sports in Gujarat as well as other parts of the country. It also intends to inspire and help the country’s youth to explore the huge business potential of the sports market.

India’s young business minds will also get much-needed guidance from the top sportspersons, coaches, industry leaders, successful founders, policymakers and sports administrators who will be part of the conclave as speakers and panellists. The conclave will also feature a dynamic line-up of keynote speeches, panel discussions, pitch competition, interactive workshops.

While discussing the latest trends and challenges in the field, the participants will also get opportunities to share knowledge and seek investment.

Logo launched

A commemorative logo for the Gujarat Sports Startup Conclave indicates the importance of business networking, knowledge sharing and strategic partnerships for inclusive growth and sustainable development of the rapidly evolving sports startup sector having the vibrant colors of Gujarat’s growing economy.

November 16, 2023
Get ready for Stardom: Bollywood’s finest live

Mumbai: Mumbaikars are all set to witness the first-of-its-kind LIVE Bollywood show slated to be hosted on 20 January 2024. Talented artists across Bollywood, Music, and Comedians will come together with their power-packed performances at this spectacular event. ‘Stardom’, presented by Outcry Entertainment is set to redefine entertainment with an unparalleled line-up of curated dance and music acts by prominent Bollywood personalities, Shahid Kapoor, Nora Fatehi, Malaika Arora, and Comedian Sunil Grover. The evening will feature a star-studded line-up like never before!

What to expect:

• Power-Packed Dance Performances: Shahid Kapoor, Nora Fatehi, and Malaika Arora will set the stage on fire with their larger-than-life dance acts.

• Hilarious Comedy Acts: Get ready for a laughter riot as Sunil Grover takes on multiple characters in his side-splitting comedy acts.

• Non-Stop Entertainment: With 4 hours of non-stop entertainment, Stardom guarantees an evening packed with excitement and unforgettable moments.

• Grand Entries: Experience the grand entries of your favourite stars, adding to the overall glitz and glamour of the event.

• Professionally Choreographed Acts: Witness professionally choreographed acts with an ensemble of talented dancers that will leave you mesmerized.

• Ultimate Showdown Finale Act: Stardom concludes with a spectacular finale act that promises to be the ultimate showdown, leaving the audience breathless.

Moreover, the event will also witness high-energy musical performances by well-known music artists.

The event will also offer multiple bars and a food court to cater to all needs.

Outcry Entertainment Director and Founder Saurabh Chaudhary said, “Stardom is an exceptional live Bollywood entertainment event concept that will debut with its first event in Mumbai. This event will create a one-of-a-kind experience, providing a space for the audience to come together and celebrate with their favourite artists while experiencing them perform live. With Stardom, we aim to set new standards in the world of entertainment by bringing together the most acclaimed Bollywood artists on a single platform.”

Actor Shahid Kapoor enthusiastically expresses, “It’s always exciting to do live stage shows because you get to interact with the live audience, which is my favourite part. I’m extremely excited to be dancing in Mumbai, which is my hometown, and performing live for the Mumbai audience. I can’t wait to get on stage and give them an amazing night.”

Actor Malaika Arora says, “I have been performing live since many years now. Stage performance is something that instantly connects me to the audience, and I am happy when I do it. Waiting to share Bollywood magic right with you. It’s time to celebrate the sheer joy of Bollywood with an unforgettable show!”

Actor Nora Fatehi mentions, “I am excited to be a part of Stardom. Live performances are something that I thoroughly enjoy as an artist. That’s where the magic of storytelling truly comes alive, where we connect, inspire, and share our souls with the audience that’s right there, in the moment with us. It’s time to rejoice again with a mesmerizing show.”

Comedian and Actor Sunil Grover says, “I feel comedy is all about the right timing at the right time. Performing LIVE on stage has always been special to me. The instant feedback from the audience is a game-changer, and it helps refine my act. Glad to be a part of Stardom, where I will be showcasing a few of my favourite acts for the crowd.”

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the most electrifying Bollywood live event in Mumbai. Stardom is where the magic happens, where Bollywood comes alive, and where you’ll create memories that last a lifetime.

For ticket information and details, visit

https://in.bookmyshow.com/mumbai/events/stardom-biggest-bollywood-live-experience/ET00370038

November 3, 2023
Designyatra 2023 day 2: Transforming ideas into design masterpieces

Mumbai: Kyoorius, since its inception, helmed by the creative evangelist Rajesh Kejriwal has worked relentlessly to empower the creative community in India.

Kyoorius has a wide range of creative properties like ZEE Melt, Kyoorius Creative Awards & the Kyoorius Design Yatra.

As a non-profit organisation, Kyoorius encourages the creative industry to excel through these endeavors.

That’s a wrap on day two of Designyatra 2023! As it has been before, each day brings something, and someone, new to the table. With plenty of food for thought to go around, there was a fantastic lineup of speakers serving it. And an equally fantastic, and loud, audience.

We kicked today off with Pau Garcia, the man who’s delivering data with storytelling. He, and his team at Domestic Data Streamers, have built everything from a time machine to a system of storing synthetic memories. Because to create impact, numbers aren’t enough. After running the delegates through his excellent portfolio of work, the duo that banded together, Anil Aykan and Jonathan Barnbrook took the stage. As a couple, the two form both halves of electronic band, Fragile Self, and their talk took us through the eclectic and unique cover art, release album, and music videos for the band. And in typical Jonathan Barnbrook style, type was the hero. As they exited stage left, the audience welcomed the legendary Dick Powell. If you have a steam iron or a spaceship, you can be almost sure that Dick had a hand in making it better. But his talk centred around the practicalities of what design needs to do; make things better for the people who use them. After a quick lunch, the show was stolen by the queen of sustainable fashion, Shamyra Moodley aka LaaniRaani. Through her talk she took the audience through the seen and unseen parts of her life, from growing up in Apartheid-era South Africa to leaving her accountant career behind to pursue her passion in fashion. And she’s done it all herself. DIY to her core. She stunned the audience with an impromptu fashion show, comprised completely of delegates that attended the conference. Her inspiring and innovative story is sure to stay with the audience. But that wasn’t even close to the end of the excitement. Manavendra Singh Shekhawat took the stage next and spoke about his mind-blowing efforts to turn desolate land into a destination. He’s built one of the most successful boutique hotels and his eyes now lie on creating a new sustainable city called Dhun; a project that has already brought life to a land that was previously devoid of it. And creating a cultural library that preserves pieces from the past so that they don’t get lost in our rush to the future. Next in line we welcomes Nathan Yong. Energetic, funny, and insightful, Nathan believes that every object has a story to tell. And he’s hell bent on using the materials he has to create functional and fun products. From furniture to a ring made of 124 concrete blocks that brought people together, Nathan showcased the emotion behind design, without any pretence. As one designer left, another visionary entered. We welcomed Christopher Bauder to the stage, and from minute one, the only sound you could hear is the gasps and applause of the crowd. His kinetic light sculptures, insane scale of work, and the heart behind it left everyone with not just admiration, but pure drive to create something that they’ve never done before. As the light and sound show of Christopher’s work subsided, Murthovic and Thiruda brought their own brand of an experimental and sensational music and visual performance. Rooted in the cultural history of India, there was everything from game design to character creation to the multidisciplinary Elsewhere in India performance that showcased their skill in making sound and sight synonymous with each other.

At the end of the day, delegates left with their brains, and bellies, filled to the brim. Thankfully, there’s day three to make sure they’re satiated with all the exploration and inspiration they can digest until next year.

The theme for the season is “Reset”, an attempt to look at how the world, the work, and most importantly how we work has changed. Designyatra, presented by Zee5, powered by Pidilite, with experience partner Absolut, will continue on the 27 and 28 October.

For more information about the event, visit designyatra.com

October 28, 2023
Sharmila Tagore applauds healthcare sector progress at 15 FICCI Healthcare Excellence Awards

Mumbai: Lauding the incredible progress of the healthcare sector in India, Sharmila Tagore, a celebrated film personality, yesterday said that India has come a long way in terms of healthcare advancement, but there is a need to prioritise rural healthcare.

Addressing the ‘15 FICCI Healthcare Excellence Awards’ Ms Tagore said, “Indian healthcare sector has seen a tangible success in the last few decades. This sector in India has advanced with technology. I believe in our doctors and do not see any point in going to foreign countries and spending a good chunk of treatment while we have the capability within our country itself.”

She also applauded the efforts of FICCI for hosting the ‘Healthcare Excellence Awards’ every year to honour the invaluable contribution of individuals and organisations in the healthcare sector.

FICCI Healthcare Excellence Awards 2023 former secretary of the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare & Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Government of India and jury chair- C K Mishra said that the Indian healthcare sector has come a long way, and a healthy India is no longer a distant dream.

“The healthcare sector has made significant progress. We need to work hard, explore new possibilities, and ensure that quality healthcare is accessible to all. A healthy India is no longer a distant dream. We need to step up our efforts in the healthcare sector and strive to bring about positive change,” he asserted.

Dr Harsh Mahajan, chair of the FICCI Health Services Committee at the 15 FICCI Healthcare Excellence Awards, also emphasised the need to expedite efforts. He added that the FICCI Healthcare Excellence Awards, which recognise organisations and individuals for their exemplary contributions to the healthcare sector, can serve as motivation for the healthcare sector to make remarkable progress in this direction.

Echoing a similar sentiment, FICCI Health Services Committee co-chair Dr Sanjeev Singh; Medical director, Amrita Institute- Faridabad and chief Medical superintendent, AIMSRC Kochi also stressed the importance of recognising good work for progress.

FICCI hosted its ‘15 FICCI Healthcare Excellence Awards’ to felicitate organisations and individuals for their invaluable contributions to the healthcare space in different categories on Thursday. The participants were evaluated on three criteria: Innovation, Impact Sustainability and scalability, by a distinguished independent jury panel chaired by C K Mishra.

October 27, 2023
Designyatra 2023: Where creativity thrives with ‘Reset’ as the theme

Mumbai: Kyoorius, since its inception, helmed by the creative evangelist Rajesh Kejriwal has worked relentlessly to empower the creative community in India.

Kyoorius has a wide range of creative properties like ZEE Melt, Kyoorius Creative Awards & the Kyoorius Design Yatra.

As a non-profit organisation, Kyoorius encourages the creative industry to excel through these endeavors.

Day one at Designyatra was exactly like you would expect for the in-person comeback of one of India’s biggest and most beloved design festivals. Filled with old friends reuniting once again, new friendships being formed, and a whole boatload of inspiration.

The day kicked off with Abha Narain Lambha, the master restoration architect bringing back heritage buildings from the dead. From high-altitude Buddhist temples to some of the most iconic buildings like The Royal Opera House, her talk showcased not just her skill, but also her love for the work she does. Next up, the crowd gave a roaring welcome to Sindiso Nyoni, and was then immediately left speechless after looking at his unique brand of Guurill(art). Focusing on protest art, his talk centred around his hard-hitting posters, slick animations, and inspired installations. By the end, the audience was roaring again. And that theme continued on as Khyati Trehan took the stage. A Designyatra alumnus, Khyati’s talk went into her life behind the scenes, before she was the inspiration she is today. And then she brought it to her present, outlining the tenets that have helped her become a freer, more explorative designer. Candid, playful, and obviously well-designed, her presentation received several whoops from around the room. The dynamic duo, Yael Mer and Shay Alakaly, took the stage next. From their love for pushing design ideologies with playfulness at the core, to their stellar product design portfolio. They’ve pitched to Louis Vuitton with paper models, cooked wood to change its colour, and made furniture that is adored by people around the globe, but mainly their children. As the audience bid adieu to the power couple, Shubhi Sachan took the stage. The founder of the Material Library of India, she showed how waste can become wonderful, if treated the right way. And outlined how important it is for the world to make the most of what we have before we deem it useless. The day ended on a massive high as Jonathan Barnbrook leaped onto stage. His talk left the audience laughing, crying (because they were laughing so hard), and braver than when they walked in. With a new perspective unlocked, and new inspiration in their back pocket, Designyatra is, and always will be, the place where creativity prospers.

The theme for the season is “Reset”, an attempt to look at how the world, the work, and most importantly how we work has changed. Designyatra, presented by Zee5, powered by Pidilite, with experience partner Absolut, will continue on the 27 and 28 October.

For more information about the event, visit designyatra.com

October 27, 2023
CoinDCX’s Unfold 2023: Shaping India’s Web3 leadership

Mumbai: Unfold 2023, India’s largest Web3 event organised by CoinDCX from 19 -21 October 2023, was wrapped up on a high note. The sheer scale of the event and the overwhelming success reflects the promising future of Web3 in India. This objective is no less than propelling the nation to the forefront of Web3 leadership, thereby charting the course for the next phase of the internet revolution.

Unfold 2023 witnessed a remarkable turnout of over 2,500 participants during its three-day duration. Eminent leaders from the Ministry such as Priyank Mallikarjun Kharge, Minister IT/BT Karnataka, Jayant Sinha, Chairman PSC-FINANCE and MP and Rajeev Gowda, Vice Chairman, Karnataka Policy and Planning Commission, former- MP, Rajya Sabha, spoke at the event, sharing a firm belief in the potential of Web3 to generate employment opportunities and revolutionize the internet landscape. The Event featured participation both in person and virtually, with over 60 distinguished global Web3 leaders and entrepreneurs, including notable figures such as Base founder Jesse Pollak, Ava Labs founder Emin Gün Sirer, Solana Labs co-founder Raj Gokal, Balaji Srinivasan, BitOasis co-founder and CEO Ola Doudin, and Aptos Mo Shaikh.

Unfold 2023 hosted Asia’s largest multichain multiprotocol hackathon, drawing over 700 web developers who competed for a total prize pool of $85,000. The Demo Day, which was also part of the event, saw some exceptional ideas from the entrepreneurs. The perks of winning the Demo Day included a $1 million pool of funding from CoinDCX Ventures and some of the top-tier Web3 investors, including Pi Ventures, Mumbai Angels, Global Coin Research, Dorahacks Ventures, Hashed EM, Draper Dragon, and IOSG Venture. By every metric, the event stood as the grandest and most significant in the realm of Web3.

CoinDCX also unveiled its upgraded app, offering Indian crypto investors and traders a seamless experience with integrated advanced features from CoinDCX Pro. The user-friendly app launched during Unfold 2023 ensures secure and compliant trading in Virtual Digital Assets (VDAs).

Delivering a keynote at Unfold 2023, Priyank Kharge extended his support for Web3 innovation within the state. He proposed the exploration of a regulatory sandbox for development and innovation until a comprehensive framework is established. “The Government of Karnataka is willing to Listen, Learn and Adapt new technology and we are here to support the industry.In the burgeoning realm of Web3, our government is committed to not only observe and absorb but also to evolve with this digital frontier. We eagerly anticipate the establishment of a regulatory sandbox,” he said.

Jayant Sinha praised CoinDCX for its outstanding initiatives in fostering synergy among developers, startup founders, and other participants within the Web3 ecosystem during Unfold 2023. “India and Indian digital infrastructure has been recognised globally. With the world’s largest open digital ecosystem and a passionate developer community, India is poised to lead the global Web3 revolution. The presence of so many developers at Unfold 2023 hackathon is a testament to this vision,” he added.

Speaking at Unfold, CoinDCX co-founder Sumit Gupta said, “In this transformative decade, the VDA market cap is poised to surge by 15-20%, paving the way for a future that holds incredible promise. By 2030, we anticipate a landscape where over 1 million developers will be actively crafting the web3, ushering in web3 applications that will engage over 1 billion users. Our commitment at CoinDCX extends beyond building a large company. We are dedicated to crafting an open, inclusive, and efficient internet, right here in India, and sharing it with the world. Together, we will build for the long-term and build the right way.”

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the distinguished speakers, valued partners, sponsors, developers who participated in the hackathon, and innovative startups who united with us in this remarkable journey at Unfold 2023. Together, we have taken substantial strides in constructing a unified and collaborative Web3 ecosystem,” Sumit added.

Unfold 2023 stands as a monumental achievement, propelling India to the forefront of the global Web3 arena. With hundreds of startups, five unicorns, and a projected contribution of $1.1 trillion to India’s GDP by 2032, this event underscored the imperative of fostering a unified Web3 ecosystem. India’s pivotal role in grassroots crypto adoption, housing 11 per cent of the global Web3 developer pool, solidifies its position as a Web3 powerhouse. Anticipating a 120 per cent growth in blockchain talent, the nation is poised for remarkable progress. The retail and financial sectors, contributing 37 per cent and 15 per cent respectively, will drive Web3 and metaverse adoption, illuminating India’s dynamic potential. Unfold 2023 has firmly established India as a trailblazer in the ever-evolving Web3 landscape, marking a significant leap towards a collaborative and thriving future.

October 27, 2023
Banijay Asia forays into live entertainment

Mumbai: Banijay Asia, India’s leading content powerhouse, announced its foray into LIVE Entertainment & Special Events, with an unforgettable pre-match entertainment ceremony at the historic India-Pakistan cricket match. Produced and executed by Banijay Asia, and orchestrated by BCCI, the star-studded event, titled “A Musical Odyssey,” took place at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, captivating an audience of over 100,000 cricket enthusiasts.

The mesmerizing evening, directed by Varun Gupta, comprising an opening and a mid-innings act, and witnessed renowned musical talent including Shankar Mahadevan, Arijit Singh, Sunidhi Chauhan, Neha Kakkar, Darshan Rawal and Sukhvinder Singh, who set the stage on fire with their chart-topping hits and melodious renditions. The atmosphere was electric as the crowd joined in, creating a harmonious blend of cricket and music.

Commenting on the project, Banijay Asia & Endemol Shine India founder & group CEO Deepak Dhar stated, “We are honoured and humbled to be part of a historic evening, by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and would like to thank the entire BCCI team for their confidence in us. This event marked the first foray for Banijay Asia into the ‘LIVE Entertainment’ space, an area which, with the support of Banijay Events, it hopes to grow. We believe in creating unique and unforgettable experiences, and this evening was a testament to our commitment to bringing home unforgettable entertainment experiences.”

The “A Musical Odyssey” event added a new dimension to cricketing extravaganzas by merging the enthusiasm of sports with the magic of music, uniting fans from all walks of life. It showcased Banijay Asia’s expertise in producing and executing grand-scale, entertainment-driven events that leave an indelible mark on the audience.

The news comes months after the global launch of Banijay Events, and Banijay’s acquisition of live entertainment specialist, Balich Wonder Studio. Banijay Events will look to partner closely with Banijay Asia in the region to expand its efforts in this space.

October 19, 2023