Brands

We envision toys evolving with tech for each child’s personalised learning: Blix Education’s Abbas Gabajiwala

Published

1 year ago

September 20, 2024

Mumbai: As children’s interests and playtime habits evolve, brands like Blix Education are transforming the way they learn, blending creativity and technology to make play more than just fun. Offering a wide range of interactive STEAM-based toys, Blix Education taps into children’s curiosity, allowing them to explore and build through hands-on experiences. The brand doesn’t just focus on entertainment but brings education into the mix in a way that’s both engaging and innovative.

Founded by Abbas Gabajiwala, Blix Education stands out for its commitment to merging play with learning through its STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) toys. Known for its versatile and reusable toy sets, Blix Education’s offerings include everything from robotics kits to modular construction sets, as well as comprehensive STEAM lab setups for schools. Blix Education’s products are available on major platforms such as Amazon and Flipkart, and in retail stores like Hamleys. Globally, Blix Education toys are utilized in educational settings from Singapore to Germany, enhancing learning experiences across continents. Gabajiwala, a former CTO and award-winning designer, leverages his expertise to craft toys that nurture creativity and problem-solving skills, making Blix Education a global leader in educational play.

Indiantelevision.com’s Arth Chakraborty in a chat with Blix Education’s founder and CEO Abbas Gabajiwala to gain deeper insights on how STEAM toys are transforming children’s learning experiences, the challenges of promoting STEM products in non-traditional markets, and more…

Edited Excerpts:

On STEM toys being better than traditional toys

STEM toys offer a distinct advantage over traditional toys by integrating education with play, encouraging children to explore concepts in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. While traditional toys primarily focus on entertainment, STEM toys stimulate critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. They provide a hands-on learning experience, enabling kids to grasp complex ideas in an interactive and engaging manner.

STEM toys grow alongside a child’s curiosity, encouraging them to build, experiment, and innovate while developing a deeper understanding of how things work. These toys are designed to accommodate various learning styles, offering a wide range of activities that nurture cognitive development and creative problem-solving skills. By engaging with STEM toys, children are constantly challenged to think critically and explore new concepts, making learning a more interactive and enriching experience.

Ultimately, STEM toys not only entertain but equip children with essential skills for future careers, helping them develop a passion for learning while playing. They bridge the gap between fun and education, making them a more enriching option than traditional toys.

On the challenges that you faced in promoting STEM toys in non-traditional markets

Promoting STEM toys in non-traditional markets presents several challenges. One of the main hurdles is a lack of awareness and understanding of the benefits of STEM education. Many parents and educators in these regions may be unfamiliar with the concept, associating toys with entertainment rather than learning. This makes it difficult to convey the value of STEM toys as tools for cognitive and creative development.

Our most popular product is Blix Queaky which is an experimental toy teaching children about electricity and conductivity. The biggest challenge in promoting this, is lack of understanding of the product or why it functions that way. When we sell these toys, parents expect them to work exactly as shown, and are disappointed when they don’t, they don’t understand that actual learning happens with experimentations.

Additionally, there can be cultural resistance to new educational methods, with a preference for more conventional forms of education. Economic factors also play a role, as STEM toys, often perceived as premium products, may be considered too costly for some families.

On technology-driven toys changing the way kids learn science and engineering

Technology-driven toys are revolutionising how children learn science and engineering by transforming abstract concepts into hands-on experiences. These toys, like STEM-based robotics kits or coding games, allow kids to experiment and explore in interactive, engaging ways, fostering deeper understanding. Instead of passively absorbing information, children actively apply principles of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) while building, programming, or solving real-world problems.

Technology is all around us. Children as young as aged one and two know how to use the phones, press buttons, watch their favourite youtube videos and play games. However we need to teach them how this technology has been made – they need to be the future creaters of this technology and instead of just playing and using existing technology, we need to teach children how to learn from it and create more.

Through play, kids develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, essential skills for the future. Technology-driven toys break down complex ideas into manageable, bite-sized challenges that make learning accessible and fun. For example, building a robot or designing a simple circuit can introduce children to the basics of engineering and electronics without the intimidation often associated with these subjects.

These toys also encourage independent learning and curiosity, enabling kids to discover how things work while nurturing their interest in STEM fields from an early age.

On securing funding from Shark Tank India Season 3 impact Blix’s growth trajectory

Blix received the funding in the season but due to some internal reason they did not accept it later. But Blix has been on an upward growth trajectory since being aired on shark tank. We have come into the limelight and have helped educate people on the importance of STEM based learning in India.

On the innovations in toy technology that excite you the most right now

Right now, innovations in toy technology that excite me the most are those that combine artificial intelligence (AI) with hands-on learning experiences. AI-powered educational toys that adapt to a child’s learning pace and preferences can revolutionize how children engage with STEM subjects. These toys personalise the learning experience, making it more interactive and tailored to each child’s strengths, which enhances retention and understanding.

Our award winning – first time in India DIY remote controlled construction set has taken the Indian toy market by storm. For children to now make RC operated structures opens a whole new world of play and a multifold ways of playing with our kits.

Another exciting development is the integration of augmented reality (AR) with physical toys, allowing children to explore virtual worlds while building real-life skills. AR enables dynamic storytelling and immersive experiences, making science, technology, engineering, and math concepts more accessible and engaging.

Finally, modular robotics kits, which allow children to build and program their robots, inspire creativity and problem-solving. These innovations not only make learning fun but also prepare children for future careers in an increasingly tech-driven world, making toy technology an exciting frontier. During Gapanpati puja, Blix used their toys to do aarti. On this Instagram link you can see how even children can make such inspiring toys so easily:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Blix Education (@blix.robotix)

On early exposure to STEM influencing children’s future career choices

Early exposure to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) plays a crucial role in shaping children’s future career choices. When children engage with STEM concepts from a young age, they develop problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills that are foundational for many careers in technology, engineering, and science fields.

STEM activities and toys stimulate curiosity, encourage hands-on learning, and foster a love for discovery, making complex subjects approachable and enjoyable. As children experiment and explore, they become more confident in their abilities to solve real-world problems, which can ignite long-term interest in STEM-related careers.

This early foundation broadens their understanding of potential career paths, making them more likely to pursue professions in fields like engineering, robotics, programming, or research. Moreover, the ability to adapt and innovate—skills nurtured by early STEM exposure—gives them a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving, tech-centric world.

On balancing fun and functionality when designing new toys

Balancing fun and functionality when designing new toys is key to creating engaging and educational experiences for children. At Blix, we prioritise both aspects by focusing on interactive, hands-on learning that naturally incorporates essential STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) concepts. Our design process begins with understanding how children learn and play, ensuring that every toy captures their attention and curiosity through fun challenges and engaging tasks.

Functionality comes from embedding educational value within the toy, allowing children to explore problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity while having fun. We carefully choose designs that encourage kids to build, experiment, and explore while maintaining simplicity and playfulness. By merging entertainment with STEM-based learning, we ensure our toys not only bring joy but also equip children with the tools to understand and apply complex concepts in real-world scenarios.

This balance keeps children excited about learning and helps parents see the long-term benefits.

On the evolution of toys in the coming years and Blix contributing to the future of play globally

In the coming years, toys are expected to evolve significantly, driven by advancements in technology and a growing emphasis on personalised learning. We envision a future where toys integrate more seamlessly with digital platforms, offering interactive experiences that adapt to each child’s learning style and pace. Emerging technologies such as augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), and IoT (Internet of Things) will play a crucial role in making playtime more immersive and educational.

Blix is committed to leading this transformation by continuously innovating and integrating these technologies into our STEM toys. We aim to create products that not only entertain but also provide valuable educational experiences. Our focus will be on developing toys that enhance problem-solving skills, foster creativity, and prepare children for future careers in technology and engineering. By staying at the forefront of educational toy design, Blix will contribute to shaping the future of play globally, making learning an engaging and dynamic journey for children.

Blix recently launched their RC megastructures set which allows children to develop replicas of transporter and folding bridges, which offers a building challenge and educates on the mechanics of intricate bridge designs. Additionally, to mimic the functionality of heavy operational machinery like mining drills or industrial gantry cranes, this innovative set helps users understand the intricacy of X-Y motion systems commonly used in manufacturing and engineering.

Related Topics:Abbas Gabajiwala AI Blix Education Educational play Robotics kits STEAM toys STEM learning tech toys

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Netflix India names Rekha Rane director of films and series marketing

Streaming giant bets on a seasoned marketer who helped build Amazon and Netflix into household names

Published

1 week ago

February 9, 2026

indiantelevision.com Team

MUMBAI: Netflix has put a proven brand builder at the helm of its films and series marketing in India, naming Rekha Rane as director in a move that signals sharper focus on audience growth and cultural cut-through in one of its most hotly contested markets.

Rane steps into the role after seven years at Netflix, where she has quietly shaped how the platform sells stories to India. Her latest promotion, effective February 2026, crowns a run that spans brand, slate and product marketing across originals, licensed content and new verticals such as games.

A strategic marketing and communications professional with roughly 15 years’ experience, Rane has spent much of her career building technology-led consumer businesses and new categories, notably e-commerce and subscription video on demand. She was part of the early push that introduced Amazon.in, Prime Video and Netflix to Indian homes, then helped turn them into everyday brands.

At Netflix, she most recently served as head of brand and slate marketing for India from March 2024 to February 2026, leading teams across media and marketing for global and local content portfolios. Before that, as manager for original films and series marketing, she led IP creation and go-to-market strategy for titles including Guns and Gulaabs, Kaala Paani, The Railway Men* and The Great Indian Kapil Show, spanning both binge and weekly-release formats.

Her earlier Netflix roles covered product discovery and promotion in India and integrated campaign strategy to drive conversations around the content slate, product awareness and brand-equity metrics.

Before Netflix, Rane logged more than three years at Amazon in brand marketing roles in Bengaluru. There she handled national and regional campaigns for Amazon.in, worked on customer assistance programmes in growth geographies and contributed to the go-to-market strategy for the launch of Prime Video India.

Her career began well away from streaming. At Reliance Brands in Mumbai, she worked on retail marketing for Diesel and Superdry. A stint at Leo Burnett saw her work on primary research for P&G Tide, mapping Indian shoppers’ paths to purchase. Earlier still, at Orange in the United Kingdom, she rose from sales assistant to store manager, running a team and owning monthly P&L for a retail outlet.

The arc is telling. As global streamers fight for attention in a crowded Indian market, executives who understand both mass retail behaviour and digital habit-building are prized. Rane’s career sits at that intersection.

For Netflix, the bet is simple: in a market spoilt for choice, sharp marketing can still tilt the screen. And with Rane now leading the charge, the streamer is signalling it wants not just viewers, but fandom.

Brands

Orient Beverages pops the fizz with steady Q3 gains and rising profits

Kolkata-based beverage maker reports stronger revenues and profits for December quarter.

Published

1 week ago

February 9, 2026

indiantelevision.com Team

MUMBAI: A fizzy quarter with a steady aftertaste that’s how Orient Beverages Limited, the company that manufactures and distributes packaged drinking water under the brand name Bisleri closed the December 2025 period, as the Kolkata-based drinks maker reported improved revenues and a healthy rise in profits, signalling operational stability in a competitive beverage market.

For the quarter ended December 31, 2025, Orient Beverages posted standalone revenue from operations of Rs 39.98 crore, up from Rs 36.42 crore in the previous quarter and Rs 33.53 crore in the same quarter last year. Total income for the quarter stood at Rs 42.24 crore, reflecting consistent demand and stable pricing across its beverage portfolio.

Profit before tax for the quarter came in at Rs 3.47 crore, a sharp improvement from Rs 1.31 crore in the September quarter and Rs 0.39 crore a year ago. After accounting for tax expenses of Rs 0.79 crore, the company reported a net profit of Rs 2.68 crore, nearly three times the Rs 0.99 crore recorded in the preceding quarter.

On a nine-month basis, the momentum remained intact. Revenue from operations for the period ended December 31, 2025 rose to Rs 117.66 crore, compared with Rs 106.95 crore in the corresponding period last year. Net profit for the nine months climbed to Rs 5.51 crore, more than double the Rs 2.18 crore reported in the same period of the previous financial year.

The consolidated numbers told a similar story. For the December quarter, consolidated revenue from operations stood at Rs 45.06 crore, while profit after tax came in at Rs 2.06 crore. For the nine-month period, consolidated revenue touched Rs 133.57 crore, with net profit of Rs 4.49 crore, underscoring the group’s improving profitability trajectory.

Operating expenses remained largely controlled, with cost of materials, employee benefits and other expenses broadly aligned with revenue growth. The company continued to operate within a single reportable segment beverages simplifying its cost structure and reporting framework.

The unaudited financial results were reviewed by the Audit Committee and approved by the Board of Directors at its meeting held on 7 February 2026. Statutory auditors carried out a limited review and reported no material misstatements in the results.

In a market where margins are often squeezed by input costs and competition, Orient Beverages’ latest numbers suggest the company has found a reliable rhythm not explosive, but steady enough to keep the fizz alive.

Brands

BCCL profit jumps 53 per cent in FY25 as tax bill shrinks

Revenue rises 4.3 per cent to Rs 10,209.33 crore while deferred tax gain lifts bottom line sharply

Published

1 week ago

February 9, 2026

indiantelevision.com Team

NEW DELHI: Bennett, Coleman and Company (BCCL) has posted a sparkling set of financial results for the year ended 31 March 2025, proving that there is still plenty of ink and gold left in the ledger.

Revenue from operations climbed a steady 4.3 per cent, reaching Rs 10,209.33 crore compared to Rs 9,786.44 crore the previous year. When you sprinkle in other income, which rose 8.9 per cent to Rs 949.36 crore, the total income for the media behemoth hit a healthy Rs 11,158.69 crore.

While the income grew at a modest pace, the bottom line tells a far more dramatic story. The real headline is the 53 per cent surge in annual profit. How did they pull off such a feat? While Profit Before Tax (PBT) saw a gentle nudge upward of 2.7 per cent to Rs 1,610.00 crore, it was a vanishing act by the taxman that really did the trick.

Total tax expenses plummeted by 32.4 per cent, dropping from Rs 468.76 crore down to Rs 316.97 crore. This was largely thanks to a swing in deferred tax, moving from an expense of Rs 156.02 crore in FY24 to a benefit of Rs 39.44 crore this year.

Total income rose from Rs 10,658.55 crore in FY24 to Rs 11,158.69 crore in FY25, marking a 4.7 per cent increase. Total expenses grew at a slower pace, up 3.0 per cent from Rs 9,306.06 crore to Rs 9,581.45 crore. Profit before tax inched up 2.7 per cent, moving from Rs 1,567.02 crore to Rs 1,610.00 crore. However, the standout figure was net profit, which jumped sharply by 53.0 per cent, climbing from Rs 1,042.03 crore in FY24 to Rs 1,594.73 crore in FY25.

Despite the rising costs of doing business across the globe, BCCL kept a tight grip on the purse strings. Total expenses rose by just 3.0 per cent to Rs 9,581.45 crore. By keeping costs lower than the rate of income growth, the company ensured that the final figure, a net profit of Rs 1,594.73 crore, was nothing short of a front-page sensation.

In a world of shifting digital tides, it seems the BCCL ship is not just steady, but sailing into significantly wealthier waters.