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  • Goafest 2025 unveils power-packed speaker line-up

    Goafest 2025 unveils power-packed speaker line-up

    MUMBAI: Get ready to be dazzled – Goafest 2025 is back, and it’s pulling out all the stops. The 18th edition of South Asia’s largest creative festival has unveiled a star-studded line-up of speakers, featuring the sharpest creative and marketing minds from India and beyond. With the theme ‘Ignite ____’, this year’s festival is set to spark change, fuel collaborations, and unlock new growth avenues.

    The speaker roster reads like a who’s who of the industry – Rishad Tobaccowala, Youri Guerassimov (Marcel), Prasoon Joshi, Amarjit Singh Batra (Spotify), Geetika Mehta (Nivea), Vikram Mehra (Saregama), Karan Bedi (Amazon MX Player), P.G. Aditiya (Talented), Tejas Apte (HUL), Ankit Desai (Marico), Shubhranshu Singh (Tata Motors), Rajeev Jain (DS Group), Ajay Kakar (Adani Group), Arjun Choudhary (Swiggy), Sanket Prakash Tulangekar (MMT), Pragya Bijalwan (Voltas), Kanika Anand (Airtel), Aruna Daryanani (Amazon MX Player), Darshana Shah (Aditya Birla Capital), Satya Raghavan (Google), Ajit Verghese (JioStar), Bobby Pawar, Sonal Dabral, Rathi Gangappa (Starcom), Rashmi Sehgal (Zenith), Lulu Raghwan (Landor), Rajdeepak Das (Publicis), Deepak Dhar (Banijay), Yash Chopra (Amazon MX Player), Biprorshee Das (WARC), Sujeet Kulkarni (Andersen), Karthi Marshan, Nisha Singhania (Infectious), Rubeena Singh, Shekhar Narayanaswami (Times Innovative), Sandeep Bommireddy (Adonmo) and Promita Saha (Karukrit).
    Anupriya Acharya
    Masterclass sessions at Goafest 2025 will feature a diverse set of industry leaders, including Nick Eagleton (D&AD), Senthil Kumar (VML), Vara Prasad (ITC), Krishnendu Dutta (Ipsos), Jayesh Moorjani (Google), Jayant Rajan (Meta), Gowthaman Ragothaman, Shahad Anand (Media Kart), Amogh Dusad, Anoop Menon (Meta), Debapriya Dutt (Earthday.org) and Karuna Singh  (Earthday.org) 

    But that’s just the start. Bollywood bigwigs Kareena Kapoor Khan, Suniel Shetty, Jaideep Ahlawat, Vijay Varma, and cricket legend Gautam Gambhir will bring star power to the festival. And for those looking to party, Mika Singh’s live performance is set to bring the house down.

    This year’s Goafest introduces the Goafest Village, a multi-stage experience featuring Advertising Plays, Advertising Rocks, and GoaFresh. The event will run from May 21 to 23 at Taj Cidade de Goa Heritage and Horizon, Goa, co-hosted by the Advertising Agencies Association of India (AAAI) and the Advertising Club (TAC).

    Rohit OhriPublicis grouple south Asia CEO and immediate past president of AAAI Anupriya Acharya said, “This year, we’ve designed the festival in a manner that delivers conversations that matter. Every session has been thoughtfully curated to offer value, be it through fresh perspectives, actionable insights, or future-facing ideas. In an industry that is adapting to the fast-evolving pace, we are excited to present yet another power-packed edition of Goafest, further strengthening the platform’s position as one that encourages learning, meaningful exchange, and forward-thinking dialogue.”

    Rohit Ohri, creative mentor for Goafest 2025, added, “Goafest has always stood for creativity that breaks boundaries. We’re spotlighting voices that inspire change.  This year’s line-up is designed to ignite new possibilities. It’s about creativity that breaks boundaries.”

    The festival promises to be a whirlwind of insights, entertainment, and networking – a must-attend for anyone in the world of creativity and marketing.

  • The Sleep Co names Nirav Lalan as chief growth officer

    The Sleep Co names Nirav Lalan as chief growth officer

    MUMBAI: The Sleep Co is waking up to a fresh wave of leadership as it promotes Nirav Lalan to chief growth officer (CGO), recognising his stellar role in propelling the brand to 20x growth in just under three years.

    Nirav, who joined the company in 2022, has been the brain behind its meteoric rise, cracking new growth channels and redefining comfort-tech. “Nirav has been a driving force behind our expansion,” said The Sleep Co co-founder Priyanka Salot. “His sharp strategies and knack for consumer insight have helped us scale faster than ever.”

    Taking on his new role, Nirav Lalan shared his excitement: “It’s a privilege to be part of this extraordinary journey. I look forward to pushing the boundaries even further.”

    The move is part of The Sleep Company’s strategy to fortify its leadership bench and set the stage for sustainable, long-term growth.

  • Remote control redefined as Dish TV dials up its Smart+ experience

    Remote control redefined as Dish TV dials up its Smart+ experience

    Mumbai: No more juggling remotes or input sources, Dish TV just changed the channel on home entertainment. The company has launched its new Smart+ device, an all-in-one upgrade that turns regular Android and Google TVs into smart content hubs, uniting live TV and OTT apps under a single roof.

    After the success of its flagship Smart product last year, Dish TV’s latest launch is a smarter sequel that simplifies how viewers consume content. With Smart+, your existing TV morphs into a full-fledged entertainment command centre no new remote required. Want to flip from a TV news channel to a web series on an OTT app? Just press a button on your regular TV remote.

    Built for seamless integration, Smart+ eliminates the need to switch devices or inputs. The intuitive interface not only brings your favourite TV channels and streaming services together, but also lets you set reminders, add shows to favourites, and even keep the kids in check with built-in parental controls.

    Need a quick glance at what’s coming up next? The preview banners and thumbnails offer a visual sneak peek, so you’re never lost in the scroll. Whether you’re a live sports enthusiast, a serial binge-watcher or a casual viewer, Smart+ tailors the experience to suit every screen personality.

    Compact, sleek, and feather-light, the device fits right into any living room aesthetic. And it’s portable too perfect for modern homes that love a little less cable clutter.

    Dish TV India Ltd. CEO & executive director Manoj Dobhal said, “As part of our ongoing commitment to drive innovation in the entertainment industry, we are proud to introduce the Smart+ Device. This product marks a significant advancement in the seamless integration of traditional television and OTT services, catering to the evolving needs of today’s digital consumer. We are confident that this integration represents the future of entertainment. With the launch of the Smart+ Device, we are enhancing both convenience and accessibility while reinforcing our leadership in delivering integrated, next-generation solutions for our customers.”

    The Smart+ device is now available via Dish TV’s official website, Flipkart, and major retail outlets ready to slide into your setup and stream your screen life into something a whole lot smarter.

  • Star-studded and purple-perfect, Zee Cine Awards rolls out fanfare first

    Star-studded and purple-perfect, Zee Cine Awards rolls out fanfare first

    MUMBAI: It wasn’t just the stars who shone this time, the fans had the final curtain call. The 23rd Zee Cine Awards 2025, presented by Maruti Suzuki, turned Mumbai’s NSCI Dome into a pulsating celebration of Indian cinema, where fandom met flair and the purple carpet shimmered with both glamour and gratitude.

    This wasn’t your usual awards night. It was fantertainment, as Zee dubbed it, a grand ode not only to the cinematic hits of the past year but to the people who made them resonate: the audience. With a stage set for celebration, the night transformed into a carnival of charisma, dance, drama and dazzling recognition.

    The purple carpet looked straight out of a Bollywood dream. Kartik Aaryan oozed old-school charm in an all-grey ensemble, while Ananya Panday stunned in a crisp white saree. Rashmika Mandanna and Tamannaah Bhatia set the black-dress bar high, joined by head-turners like Sharvari, Jacqueline Fernandez, Vaani Kapoor, and Shanaya Kapoor. From Tiger Shroff’s street-smart swag to Bobby Deol’s white-suited flair, the fashion parade was nothing short of fabulous.

    And when the lights dimmed, the drama dialled up. Kartik kicked off the performances with Bhool Bhulaiyaa energy, while Ananya, Tamannaah, and Tiger kept the heat alive with high-octane dance numbers. Sharvari, Rasha Thadani, Jacqueline, and Vaani followed suit, bringing a fresh mix of grace and groove. The lively trio of Vikrant Massey, Aparshakti Khurana, and Ravi Kishan took hosting duties to entertaining new highs with sharp humour and seamless banter.

    But the night wasn’t just about razzle-dazzle. It was about recognition with heart, honouring not just the big names but also the behind-the-scenes powerhouses: directors, technicians, debutantes, and everyone who made magic on screen in 2024. And for the first time, the event truly acknowledged the power of the public those who clap, stream, binge, rewatch, and believe in cinema.

    The 23rd edition also delivered poignant moments: fan tributes, heartfelt speeches, and curtain calls that brought cinema’s emotional pulse to the forefront. In a world obsessed with box office numbers, this night was a reminder that cinema is, at its core, about connection.

    So if you missed the magic, don’t worry Zee Cinema, Zee Tv and Zee5 are where the show goes on. Because when cinema’s brightest gather and fans take the spotlight, it’s not just an awards show, it’s a love letter to the stories that bring us together.

  • Why are more Indian households focusing on BLDC fans for cooling?

    Why are more Indian households focusing on BLDC fans for cooling?

    With temperatures rising and power bills high, Indian households are rethinking how they can stay cool. While the traditional fan remains a familiar fixture in homes, the BLDC fan quickly emerges as the smarter alternative. Designed for energy efficiency, durability, and modern convenience, BLDC fans are becoming the preferred choice for daily cooling, especially among families who want to reduce their electricity usage without compromising comfort.

    Affordability

    The biggest driver of this shift is energy savings. A standard ceiling fan typically consumes around 75–80 watts of power. Meanwhile, a BLDC fan consumes only about 28–35 watts, cutting energy usage up to 60%. Over the course of a year, especially in homes where fans run for long hours daily, this difference translates into noticeable savings on electricity bills.

    The cumulative benefit for households with multiple fans becomes more significant, making BLDC fans a wise investment rather than just a trendy upgrade.

    Stable comfort and fluctuating voltage

    Many Indian homes experience voltage fluctuations, especially in smaller towns and tier-2 cities. Traditional fans lose speed or performance under such conditions. BLDC fans come with motor control technology that keeps the fan running at a consistent speed, even when the voltage drops. This ensures uninterrupted comfort and better control over cooling day and night.

    Silent, smooth, and hassle-free operations

    Another reason families are making the switch is the quieter performance of BLDC fans. With no brushes inside the motor, these fans make far less noise than conventional ones. This makes them ideal for bedrooms, study areas, or even baby rooms, spaces where silence enhances comfort.

    Additionally, BLDC fans often include a remote control, eliminating the need to get up to adjust speed or switch it off. Some models even have timers and sleep modes, offering added convenience today.

    Built to last longer

    Since they have a brushless design, BLDC motors experience minimal wear and tear. This means lower maintenance, less frequent repairs, and a longer product life, which is massive for Indian consumers who value appliance durability. Many quality-focused brands now offer BLDC models with extended warranties, further reassuring customers about their long-term value.

    Stylish designs matching modern homes

    Aesthetics also matters in performance. Today’s homeowners seek appliances that look good and blend with modern interiors. Fans are available in various sleek designs, from minimalist matte finishes to wooden or metallic textures. Whether you are designing a new home or upgrading a room, there is a fan to match your style.

    Affordable modern technology

    While the initial cost of a BLDC fan may be slightly higher than a regular fan, the long-term benefits easily outweigh the price difference. Reduced electricity bills, fewer service issues, and enhanced comfort make them a smart and future-ready choice for everyday use.

    Conclusion

    As energy costs rise and smart living becomes the norm, the traditional fan is getting a much-needed upgrade. The BLDC fan offers Indian households a combination of savings, style, and sustainability. For families seeking smarter cooling solutions, making the switch is no longer a question but a necessity. 
     

  • RunnTV Fast channels make a dash to Airtel

    RunnTV Fast channels make a dash to Airtel

    MUMBAI: RunnTV has hit the fast lane, launching its premium free ad-supported streaming (Fast) channels on Airtel Xstream Play, one of India’s top content aggregation platforms.

    From Hindi cinema  blockbusters to foot-tapping music, breezy short films, and kid-friendly content, RunnTV’s bouquet of channels promises something for every taste — all delivered without a subscription fee.

    “Expanding our distribution with Airtel Xstream Play is a major milestone,” said Runn TV founder Manish Sinha. “As India’s first independent Fast-based platform, we are defining this space with our curated, ad-supported content.”

    With this partnership, RunnTV further has solidified its presence across mobile and connected TV environments, offering millions of Airtel users instant access to its entertainment buffet.

  • Sapphire Media tunes into Big FM 92.7 with a Rs 261 crore takeover

    Sapphire Media tunes into Big FM 92.7 with a Rs 261 crore takeover

    MUMBAI: Sapphire Media Ltd has officially acquired the debt-ridden Reliance Broadcast Network Ltd (RBNL), which owns Big FM 92.7, following a successful bid of Rs 261 crore during the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP). With 58 stations and a reach across 1,200 towns and 50,000+ villages, Big FM is one of India’s largest radio networks.

    The acquisition comes after Sapphire Media, promoted by Kaithal-based entrepreneur Sahil Mangla and media professional-turned-entrepreneur Aditya Vashistha, received all necessary regulatory approvals, including a green light from the ministry of information & broadcasting. The company promptly cleared dues to the committee of creditors (CoC) as per the approved resolution plan.

    The saga reached its crescendo on  23 December  2024, when the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) dismissed petitions from rival bidders and upheld the National Company Law Tribunal’s (NCLT’s) 6 May 2024, decision in favour of Sapphire Media. Rivals like Radio Orange and others had contested the resolution, but Sapphire’s bid, which secured 88.97 per cent of CoC votes, emerged victorious.

    Big FM, known for its rich legacy and a massive listener base of 340 million, will now undergo a wave of innovation under Sapphire Media’s stewardship. The group, which already boasts a vast outdoor advertising network and recently launched the Hindi news channel India Daily 24×7, plans to inject fresh energy into the radio brand, blending its heritage with cutting-edge content creation.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Big FM into the Sapphire Media family. This acquisition aligns with our vision of becoming a leader in digital content creation and broadcasting,” the company stated.

    The CIRP against RBNL was flagged off on 24 February 2023, following a petition by IDBI Trusteeship Services, the financial creditor. Six resolution plans were submitted, but Sapphire’s bid struck the winning note.

  • Pai charts a Prime course with content strategy role at Amazon

    Pai charts a Prime course with content strategy role at Amazon

    MUMBAI: From broadcast boardrooms to the streaming screen, Saurabh Pai is now scripting his next chapter at Amazon. The media and strategy specialist has taken on a new role in content strategy at Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios, marking a pivotal move in his two-decade-long career in content, analytics, and business planning.

    Known for bringing a data-driven approach to programming decisions, Pai’s new position comes after a nearly three-year stint at Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd., where he served as director of network strategy. There, he played a key role in streamlining content planning across the network’s bouquet of channels, using tools like Looker and deep market insights to sharpen audience segmentation and performance forecasting.

    Before Zee, Pai spent close to seven years at Times Television Network, where he wore multiple hats across content and product management. From crafting viewer-first propositions to budgeting and performance tracking, he emerged as a critical thinker with a flair for aligning content with consumer intent.

    His career also includes a previous stint at Zee as Research Head for niche channels and product lead for Zee Studio, where his early work shaped how the network approached English-language content in India.

    At Prime Video, Pai will help steer content decisions in one of the world’s most dynamic and competitive streaming markets. With streaming giants increasingly leaning on insight-led content curation, his hybrid background in content, data and distribution is expected to play a key role in shaping Amazon’s next wave of originals and acquisitions in India.

    One thing’s clear: with this move, Pai isn’t just tuning in, he’s ready to help write the next big streaming script.

  • Zee lines up Ashwin Gargava to dial up DTH business

    Zee lines up Ashwin Gargava to dial up DTH business

    MUMBAI: The DTH dial just turned up a notch. Ashwin Gargava, a seasoned media professional with over two decades of experience, has been appointed as head of the DTH business at Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL), an expanded role that signals the network’s intent to sharpen its focus and operational rigour in the Direct-To-Home vertical.

    Known for his deep domain knowledge and deft handling of affiliate partnerships, Gargava steps into the upgraded mandate with a clear mission: to align Zee’s DTH play more closely with the strategic priorities of its Affiliate Sales team, and drive smarter, more synergised monetisation across platforms.

    A Zee veteran since 2015, Gargava has steadily scaled leadership ladders from building affiliate support to spearheading partnerships. Prior to Zee, he has worn multiple hats across HBO, Turner Broadcasting, Fox International Channels, and Magna Publishing, bringing together a portfolio rich in placement strategy, network negotiations, and international business development.

    In an era where traditional distribution and digital convergence increasingly overlap, Gargava’s expanded role will be key in making the DTH business not just future-ready, but future-resilient. And if his track record is anything to go by, it’s clear he’s not just along for the ride, he’s in the driver’s seat, with Zee’s DTH ambitions firmly in his sights.

  • Amit Gupta promoted at Warner Bros Discovery as sr director, APAC ancillary & Hyderabad content operations

    Amit Gupta promoted at Warner Bros Discovery as sr director, APAC ancillary & Hyderabad content operations

    MUMBAI:  Amit Gupta has stepped into a new adventure as senior director – APAC ancillary and Hyderabad content operations at Warner Bros Discovery, adding another star-studded chapter to his 25-year career in the media and entertainment industry.

    Gupta, who previously served as director – program operations for South Asia at the same company, has been a master of content logistics and operations. From running the show for kids and English movie channels at Turner to leading creative services and broadcast post at Prime Focus Technologies, he has been the backstage wizard keeping the content flowing.

    Before joining Warner Bros. Discovery, Gupta sharpened his craft at Reliance MediaWorks as AVP – technical and operations, and earlier at Sony Entertainment Television, where he steered the post-production department. He even donned the hat of a senior video editor at Applause Entertainment and freelanced as an online video editor, giving him a deep understanding of the creative and operational sides of the business.

    In his new role, Gupta will oversee APAC’s ancillary operations and lead the Hyderabad content hub, playing a critical role in delivering Warner Bros Discovery’s magic across the region. With a career that’s a mix of big names and bigger responsibilities, Gupta’s latest gig is set to be another hit on his list.