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  • TKR ropes in Stake as title sponsor in multi-year global partnership

    TKR ropes in Stake as title sponsor in multi-year global partnership

    MUMBAI: The Trinbago Knight Riders just hit a sponsorship sixer. Caribbean Premier League’s most decorated franchise has inked a multi-year title partnership with Stake, the world’s leading online casino and sportsbook adding some serious global firepower to its off-field playbook. With four CPL titles under its belt (2015, 2017, 2018, 2020), TKR’s winning legacy now aligns with a brand that’s betting big on cricket. Stake already has marquee partnerships across the sporting spectrum, including UFC, Everton FC, and the Stake F1 Team. Its latest Caribbean swing follows recent forays into cricket with the Paarl Royals, European Cricket Championships, and Major League Cricket.

    “This partnership marks a significant milestone for us,” said Knight Riders Sports Group CMO Binda Dey. “Bringing together two globally recognised brands, we aim to elevate fan engagement through innovation and technology.”

    And innovation is already in motion. The announcement was hyped with a teaser campaign starring Knight Riders legends Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, and Dwayne Bravo alongside Stake-backed athletes from across the world. The result? A viral buzz building up to the big reveal, with cross-sport fandom fuelling the fire.

    “TKR’s success and passionate fanbase make them the perfect addition to our cricket portfolio,” said Stake’s CMO Akhil Sarin. “Our aim is to build immersive, tech-driven fan experiences that channel the thrill of T20 cricket.”

    This partnership is more than a logo swap, it’s a play for deeper, digital-first engagement. Expect gamified fan zones, interactive content drops, and a Stake-powered edge to TKR’s growing global fanbase.

    In the high-stakes world of franchise cricket, this Knight–casino combo could be a jackpot move.
     

  • Idiotic Media’s micro-influencer blitz sells out POCO F7 on day one

    Idiotic Media’s micro-influencer blitz sells out POCO F7 on day one

    MUMBAI: Idiotic Media has turned micro-influence into macro impact. Its high-octane campaign for Poco’s F7 5G smartphone has rewritten the rulebook for digital launches, enlisting 250 niche tech creators across Instagram and YouTube to craft content that clicks.

    Fronted by a high-energy launch film starring Akshay Kumar, the campaign turbocharged engagement with 15.15m Instagram Reels views and a flood of gaming-focused content that spoke directly to Poco’s core audiences. From reverse-charging demos to all-day battery bragging rights, micro-creators delivered credibility that no big-budget ad could buy.

    “Our focus on tech micro influencers for the Poco F7 5G campaign allowed us to craft platform-native stories that connected deeply with audiences, proving that relatability and precision drive unparalleled results,” said Idiotic Media CEO and co-founder Himanshu Singla. Adding to this, Idiotic Media co-founder Sankalp Samant said, “Micro-influencers bring authenticity that resonates deeply with today’s audiences, turning product features into relatable stories that drive real engagement.”

    Expressing his excitement, Poco Smartphones brand marketing head, Varun V Nair said, “We’re thrilled to see such incredible growth and engagement in India through tech micro-influencers, thanks to our innovative strategies and passionate community.”

  • Banijay Asia and Collective Artists Network collaborate to script India’s biggest creator-led universe

    Banijay Asia and Collective Artists Network collaborate to script India’s biggest creator-led universe

    MUMBAI: In a major move to redefine the creator economy in India, Banijay Asia, one of India’s leading content powerhouses, has joined hands with Collective Artists Network, the country’s premier talent and creator company, to launch a first-of-its-kind creator-led content and IP engine.

    This landmark collaboration will conceptualize, develop, and produce creator-first and creator-controlled properties across scripted, unscripted, branded, and digital-first formats — spanning long-form shows, short-form skits, micro-dramas, and vertical social content.

    At the heart of this alliance lies the powerful convergence of creators, content, and commerce — leveraging Collective Artists Network’s expansive creator and brand network, and Banijay Asia’s expertise in content creation and production at scale.

    The collaboration has already onboarded leading creators like Aisha Ahmed, Dolly Singh, and Kashish to develop brand-friendly content. Collective is also in active conversations with large FMCG and E-commerce advertisers to co-create high-impact, culturally resonant content that merges entertainment with brand purpose.

    Deepak Dhar, Founder & Group CEO, Banijay Asia &EndemolShine India said: “This partnership marks a bold new chapter in content creation — where creators are no longer just participants but become the driving force behind the narrative. By joining forces with Collective Artists Network, we’re building a powerful ecosystem at the intersection of content, creators, and brands. Together, we’re setting the blueprint for the future of entertainment.”

    Mrinalini Jain, Group Chief Development Officer, Banijay Asia &EndemolShine India added: “We see this as a creator-powered revolution. The future lies in content that’s authentic, scalable, and culture-shaping — and creators are at the center of it. With Collective Artists Network’s unmatched access to talent and brands, and Banijay Asia’s storytelling DNA, we’re launching a next-gen engine that’s built for today’s platforms and tomorrow’s audiences.”

    DhruvChigopekar, Co-Founder, Collective Artists Network, said: “This partnership marks a meaningful step forward for both traditional and new-age content. Banijay has built some of India’s most iconic shows, and to see that scale and storytelling depth now extend to the creator space is exciting. What’s changing is how stories are being told, creators are becoming part of the process instead of just the output. This collaboration allows us to explore that shift thoughtfully, combining structure with spontaneity, and legacy with a fresh lens. We believe it’s a strong foundation for what the next decade of entertainment could look like.”

    What this collaboration unlocks:

    –  Launching a new destination for Collective Artists Network’s creators to tell their stories spanning scripted, unscripted, and branded formats, which are genre and platform-agnostic.

    – Talent integration into Banijay Asia’s existing IPs, opening new doors for creators to host, act, write, or contribute creatively to Banijay Asia’s broad content slate.

    –  Co-creating digital-first, short-format content, micro-dramas, skits, sketches, vertical stories, and social-first formats specifically with Collective Artists Network creators.

    –  Leveraging Collective Artist Network’s expertise to lead brand integration and sponsorship across all joint content initiatives.

    –  Developing a creator-driven content universe across Instagram, YouTube and Facebook, which then potentially expands into other platforms.

    The partnership reflects Banijay Entertainment’s global vision of aligning with creators to modernise brands, bridge the gap between creators and creatives,  and reach new audiences through culturally-resonant formats. 

  • Switch powers up as SA20’s official energy drink partner for three more years

    Switch powers up as SA20’s official energy drink partner for three more years

    JOHANNESBURG:  SA20 and Switch Energy Drink have struck a renewed and expanded multi-year deal, cementing the proudly South African brand as the league’s official energy drink partner from Season 4, which kicks off on 26 December.   

    The partnership — now locked in for the next three years — builds on a successful debut season where Switch electrified fans with tastings, cash giveaways and stadium activations across 34 match days.   

    “I am thrilled to renew and expand our partnership with Switch Energy Drink for Season 4,” said SA20 league commissioner Graeme Smith. “Switch is a bold, proudly South African brand that shares the same energetic and youthful approach as SA20. Together we will ignite stadiums and give fans unforgettable experiences.”  

    Switch CEO Christian Wentzel echoed the sentiment. “This isn’t just a sponsorship — it’s a celebration of South African sport and culture. The league brings people together and that’s the kind of energy Switch lives for.”   

    The timing is no accident. Preparations are ramping up for a much-hyped Season 4, with pre-signed and retained players already announced, featuring marquee Proteas and overseas stars. The next major milestone is the player auction in Johannesburg on 9 September , where franchises can collectively splash up to $7.4m to finalise their 19-player squads.   

    Watch the Switch-SA20  brand promotion video by clicking here: 

  • Jhingan joins IOS in a new defensive strategy off the pitch

    Jhingan joins IOS in a new defensive strategy off the pitch

    MUMBAI: From boots to brand play, Sandesh Jhingan is lining up a new formation. Indian football’s defensive rock, Sandesh Jhingan, is now dribbling into new territory brand management. The 31-year-old centre-back has signed with IOS Sports and Entertainment, marking a strategic off-field move aimed at amplifying his brand presence and widening his impact beyond the beautiful game.

    Jhingan, currently with FC Goa in the Indian Super League (ISL), brings over a decade of international experience to the IOS stable. Since making his debut for India in 2013, the Chandigarh-born defender has racked up more than 50 caps for the national side, captained India in marquee tournaments like the AFC Asian Cup and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, and has become a household name in Indian football.

    Known for his no-nonsense defending, aerial dominance, and vocal leadership, Jhingan has turned out for ISL heavyweights such as Kerala Blasters, Mohun Bagan Super Giant, and Chennaiyin FC. His brief but landmark stint with Croatian club HNK Šibenik in 2021 made him one of the rare Indian players to play in Europe, adding an international edge to his résumé.

    He was named the AIFF Men’s Player of the Year for 2020–21, further cementing his status as one of Asia’s top defenders.

    On signing with IOS, Jhingan said, “I’m excited to join the IOS Sports and Entertainment family and work with a team that has such an impressive track record with India’s top athletes. Their expertise feels like the perfect assist as I look to amplify my story and connect with more people at a deeper level.”

    IOS, known for managing India’s sporting icons like Vijender Singh, Mirabai Chanu, Anju Bobby George, Lovlina Borgohain, and Manpreet Singh, sees Jhingan as a valuable addition to its football playbook.

    “Sandesh represents everything we look for in an athlete exceptional talent, unwavering dedication, and the ability to inspire others,” said IOS COO Rahul Trehan. “His addition strengthens our commitment to supporting India’s sporting heroes across all disciplines.”

    The partnership aims to elevate Jhingan’s brand through holistic management from endorsement deals and media visibility to community initiatives and content-driven storytelling. With football gaining ground as a serious sport-business in India, Jhingan’s play with IOS could be just the pivot the sport needs.

    After all, he’s long been the last line of defence now, he’s ready to be the face of a new offensive.

  • Zee TV heads back to the heartland with Chhoriyan Chali Gaon

    Zee TV heads back to the heartland with Chhoriyan Chali Gaon

    MUMBAI: Zee TV is shaking up its daily primetime with Chhoriyan Chali Gaon, a high-energy, rooted reality format that promises equal parts laughter, drama, and cultural discovery. Premiering 3 August at 9 PM, and airing daily from 9:30 PM, the show is an adaptation of Zee Marathi’s hit format Jau Bai Gavat and is produced by Zee Studios.

    In this social experiment, 11 celebrity contestants leave behind their urban comforts for 60 days of rural living — no gadgets, minimal luxuries, and a crash course in village life. From milking cows to cooking on chulhas, the show blends raw challenges with genuine bonds, under the watchful eye of host Rannvijay Singha.

    The line-up includes Anita Hassanandani, Krishna Shroff, Aishwarya Khare, Sumukhi Suresh, Anjuum Faakih, Rameet Sandhu, Reha Sukheja, Erika Packard, Surabhi Mehra, Samriddhi Mehra and Dolly Javed — each swapping high heels for muddy fields.

    Zee chief content officer Raghavendra Hunsur said, “Our original Zee Marathi format Jau Bai Gavat found success for its honest, culturally rooted storytelling that struck an emotional chord with audiences. With Chhoriyan Chali Gaon, we’ve taken that same core; the fun, the emotions, the authenticity and reimagined it for Zee TV’s wider, national audience. This show reflects our belief in going back to the roots and creating stories that are both entertaining and meaningful. It’s a fresh yet familiar narrative that celebrates the village life of India and the spirited women who call it home.”

    Zee TV chief channel officer, Mangesh Kulkarni said, “At Zee TV, we’ve always believed in formats that don’t just entertain, but spark reflection and emotional connection. With Chhoriyan Chali Gaon, we’re bringing a concept that blends the raw charm of rural India with the resilience of today’s urban woman. We’re excited to see how viewers connect with this unique journey of simplicity, struggle, and self-discovery.”

    With its daily slot, Chhoriyan Chali Gaon is set to become a primetime fixture, offering viewers nostalgia, novelty, and a taste of the simple life, one task at a time.

  • Under 25 crosses 1m downloads, pays out six crore to students

    Under 25 crosses 1m downloads, pays out six crore to students

    MUMBAI : Under 25, the flagship youth platform from Collective Artists Network, has hit one million downloads, cementing its status as one of India’s fastest-growing student-first communities.

    With over 4 lakh monthly active users, the app has become a digital playground where students create, connect and cash in. In just 18 months, it has paid out more than Rs 6 crore to 1.5 lakh students, hosted 600+ events across 25 cities, and powered the creation of 2.5 million pieces of content.

    “This is the largest youth cohort India has ever seen — they are digitally native, culturally aware, and deeply expressive,” said Collective Artists Network founder & group Vijay Subramaniam.“Under 25 has done what few platforms have managed to do: bring this generation together in one place, on their terms. It’s not just an app, it’s a cultural engine built for the future of India.”

    “What excites me most is how quickly this has grown, not just in numbers, but in energy,” said Under 25 CEO Jeel Gandhi. “From students discovering new interests to finding their voice through content or showing up to events across the country, this isn’t just user growth, it’s real community. We’ve built something that belongs to them, and they’re building it with us.”

    Having collaborated with 350+ brands, the platform is now set to supercharge engagement with Season 2 of its in-app campaign, Joyride Through the Universe, offering Rs 10 lakh in rewards.

    For India’s Gen Z, it seems, Under 25 has become the ultimate extracurricular activity.

  • Dr. Fixit walks the talk with Warkaris at Pandharpur Wari

    Dr. Fixit walks the talk with Warkaris at Pandharpur Wari

    MUMBAI : Dr. Fixit, the waterproofing solutions brand from Pidilite Industries, brought its credo of “Geela hai bahar, sukha hai andar” to life during Maharashtra’s revered Pandharpur Wari. In a gesture that blended brand purpose with cultural resonance, the company introduced custom-built walking roofs and mobile shelters to shield thousands of Warkaris from the monsoon downpour along their spiritual trek.

    The mobile roofs, each measuring 8×10 feet, moved with the devotees, while rest shelters dotted the route, offering dry, safe havens for weary pilgrims.

    Pidilite Industries Ltd. CMO Sandeep Tanwani shared, “At Pidilite, we believe our brands must connect with people, moments, and emotions in a meaningful way. Our initiative during the Pandharpur Wari reflects that belief. By walking with the Warkaris and providing shelters, we’ve aimed to support their journey in an unobtrusive yet meaningful manner, deepening our relationship with the community.”

    With over 25 years of waterproofing expertise and more than 1,000 crore sq. ft of protected structures, Dr. Fixit has extended its promise beyond homes — to the very people who make Maharashtra’s cultural heartbeat.

  • Gujarat’s unsung heroes take centre stage at ABP Asmita Sanman Puraskar 2025

    Gujarat’s unsung heroes take centre stage at ABP Asmita Sanman Puraskar 2025

    Mumbai, 29 July 2025 – ABP Asmita honoured the state’s silent trailblazers at the prestigious Asmita Sanman Puraskar 2025 in Ahmedabad. The event celebrated individuals whose grit, innovation and service have quietly reshaped Gujarat’s social, cultural, and economic fabric.

    Chief minister Bhupendra Patel, the chief guest, lauded the awardees as the true force behind Gujarat’s growth, while Shankar Chaudhary, speaker of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly, praised them for embodying the state’s resilient spirit.

    The honours spanned diverse fields from Rakesh Patel, who turned a rural government school into a model of excellence, to poet Kavi Rajendra Shukla for his enduring literary impact. Singer Bhoomi Trivedi was feted for her music, actor Siddharth Randeria for his contributions to theatre and cinema, and Paru Jaykrishna, the first woman president of GCCI, for her trailblazing leadership in industry.

    The Maha Sanman went to Dr J.M. Vyas for his groundbreaking work in forensic science and engineering, while grassroots champions like Raskibhai and the villagers of Biliaamba were recognised for reviving kho-kho at the community level.

    From unsung educators to cultural icons, ABP Asmita’s celebration was a reminder that Gujarat’s story is written not only in boardrooms and government offices but in classrooms, playgrounds, and quiet acts of service.

  • CEO pay in India soars to Rs 7.2 crore; CFOs take home Rs 2.3 crore

    CEO pay in India soars to Rs 7.2 crore; CFOs take home Rs 2.3 crore

    MUMBAI: Chief executives at India’s listed companies pocketed an average of Rs 7.2 crore in FY24, according to a new study by executive search firm Resource Bridge. The figure marks a doubling over the past decade, reflecting an annual growth rate of nine per cent. Chief financial officers, meanwhile, earned an average of Rs 2.3 crore — a 1.7-fold rise in the same period.

    The CEO Compensation Report 2025 and CFO Compensation Report 2025, compiled after a three-month analysis of nearly 1,000 annual reports and public financial data, highlight how leadership pay is shaped by sector, geography, and ownership. Manufacturing-sector CEOs remain the best paid, while CFOs in services-led industries top their peer group. Executives in North India command the highest salaries, while those in the East lag consistently behind.

    Ownership matters, too. Multinational corporations continue to outpay Indian-owned firms, with executive compensation spiking sharply once turnover passes Rs 5,000 crore — and again at the Rs 50,000 crore and Rs 1 lakh crore marks.

    To aid boards and promoters, the report debuts a proprietary compensation calculator that benchmarks CEO and CFO salaries based on turnover, sector, ownership, region and financial performance.

    Founded by K. Ramadhurai and Saroja Ramadhurai, Mumbai-based Resource Bridge has built a 20-year legacy focusing exclusively on CEO and CFO appointments. The firm is known for its research-driven counsel on leadership transitions and pay structuring.