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Tag: Kartik Mohindra

  • William Grant & Sons brings in Pernod Ricard veteran to head India ops

    William Grant & Sons brings in Pernod Ricard veteran to head India ops

    MUMBAI: William Grant & Sons (WG & S) has snapped up spirits industry veteran Kartik Mohindra as managing director for India, eyeing a bigger slice of one of the world’s fastest-growing whisky markets. The former chief marketing officer and head of global business development at Pernod Ricard India takes charge on 30 September.

    The move signals a sharp play by the Scottish distiller, best known for brands like Glenfiddich and Monkey Shoulder, as it doubles down on India’s premium spirits surge. Mohindra brings over 20 years of experience across alcohol, beverages and FMCG – a seasoned hand to scale up WG&S’ ambitions.

    His appointment follows the elevation of outgoing India MD Sachin Mehta, who steps into the role of managing director for Canada – another priority market for the group.

    “These appointments reflect our continued investment in key growth markets,” said WG&S chief commercial officer Doug Bagley. “We’re thrilled to have Kartik join us in India – a critical market where Sachin and the team have already laid strong foundations.”

    As global booze giants race to tap rising affluence and shifting tastes in developing economies, India has emerged as a battleground for premium spirits – and WG&S is clearly in no mood to play catch-up.

  • Rajkummar Rao and Patralekha headline Royal Stag Barrel Select Shorts’ new campaign

    Rajkummar Rao and Patralekha headline Royal Stag Barrel Select Shorts’ new campaign

    MUMBAI: Royal Stag Barrel Select Shorts is back in the spotlight with its newest campaign, ‘For the Select Ones’, starring the discerning duo Rajkummar Rao and Patralekha. Conceptualised by FCB NEO, the sleek new film champions craft, character, and the courage to chart one’s own course — echoing the brand’s core philosophy of celebrating purposeful storytelling and refined choices.

    In a market flooded with noise, ‘For the Select Ones’ whispers a quieter truth: that greatness lies not in following the crowd, but in choosing with intent. Both on-screen and off, Rajkummar and Patralekha exemplify that ideal, having carved careers defined by depth, not dazzle.

    The campaign pays homage to artists who’ve walked the talk — past collaborators on the Barrel Select Shorts platform include cinematic heavyweights like Anurag Kashyap, Sujoy Ghosh, Neeraj Ghaywan, and Tigmanshu Dhulia. Now, with this film, the brand doubles down on its commitment to creating an ecosystem for intelligent, bold narratives that refuse to pander.

    Speaking on the campaign, Pernod Ricard India CMO Kartik Mohindra said, “Royal Stag Barrel Select Shorts has evolved into creating an ecosystem that brings world-class narratives to curious and discerning audiences, thus becoming the destination for short films in India. With our new thematic campaign, For the Select Ones, we continue this next chapter of our brand’s select storytelling journey by celebrating those who embody success through their distinct choices.”

    “This film is a quiet tribute to the art of choosing well. In a world overflowing with options, true identity is shaped by what we say no to as much as what we embrace. The process of creating this story with Rajkummar Rao and Patralekha was about capturing that subtle, internal journey, where each choice becomes a building block of a legacy. It aligns beautifully with the Royal Stag Barrel Select Shorts ethos of celebrating individuals with a refined eye and fearless vision,” expressed FCB NEO CCO Mayuresh Dubhashi.

    Sharing his thoughts, Rao said: “Over the years, I’ve learned that true success lies in staying authentic and making choices that reflect who you are at your core. Whether it’s in the characters I play or the decisions I make in life, I’ve always aimed to strike a balance between substance and intention. For the Select Ones is a powerful reflection of that mindset— valuing integrity, thoughtfulness, and individuality. I’m proud to be part of Royal Stag Barrel Select Shorts’ campaign that celebrates the strength of discerning choices.”

    Adding her perspective, Patralekha said: “Throughout my journey, I’ve always believed in carving my own path. I’ve long admired the short films from Royal Stag Barrel Select Shorts for their depth, craft, and storytelling. Their narrative closely aligns with my belief in making choices that reflect true artistic vision. I’m honoured to collaborate with a brand that champions discernment and excellence.”

    Backed by a high-voltage amplification plan, the campaign is set to inspire a generation that values thoughtful ambition — a salute to those who refuse to settle.

     

  • Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films continues association with Mami Mumbai Film Festival

    Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films continues association with Mami Mumbai Film Festival

    Mumbai: Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films is once again partnering with Mami Mumbai Film Festival 2024. As part of the association, the brand is championing select and distinctive narratives for discerning viewers. This initiative reinforces the brand’s focus on curating content “For the Select Ones” by celebrating creativity, originality, and collaborating with the choicest storytellers and renowned artists.

    This year’s collaboration will feature a short film contest and the premiere of two original Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films shorts on 23 October 2024.

    1.   Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films Premieres: Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films will premiere two new original short films at the festival, featuring renowned talent from the industry. The event promises a captivating evening, highlighted by a panel discussion, and select conversations with the cast.

    ●    Gul Panag’s Aloo Bhujia, starring Rannvijay Singha, Arnav Maggo, Padma Damodaran; directed by Lakshmi R Iyer.

    ●    Tigmanshu Dhulia’s The Promise, starring Jim Sarbh and Priya Mani.

    2.   Short Film Contest: The contest offered aspiring filmmakers an exciting opportunity to showcase their creativity and storytelling, with the top 10 shortlisted films scheduled to be screened at the festival. Of the shortlisted films, winners under the ‘Best Film’ category will also be announced. The special jury, comprising some of India’s top voices in the industry – Hansal Mehta, Aditi Rao Hydari and Rajshri Deshpande – will be present for the Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films Premieres.

    Pernod Ricard India chief marketing officer and head of global business development Kartik Mohindra said, “Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films has become ‘the’ destination for short films over the years for viewers to experience great filmmaking. The platform has been a pioneer in transforming the way individuals perceive the short film genre and has evolved to create an ecosystem for aspiring and established storytellers alike to bring select short films to our audiences. We are thrilled to continue our association with MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024, which is a testament to our dedication towards crafting the next chapter of select storytelling. This strengthens our endeavour of fostering a dynamic environment that empowers storytellers, and curating select narratives for our discerning audiences.”

    MAMI Mumbai Film Festival artistic director Deepti DCunha shared, “We are delighted to continue our long-standing association with Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films, united by our shared passion for exceptional storytelling and empowering talented filmmakers. Together, we remain committed to curating compelling content that resonates with evolving audience preferences and shifting consumption trends.”

    The festival is set to take place from 19 October to 24 October 2024. 

  • Celebs join Seagram’s 100 Pipers Glassware to support eradication of corneal blindness in India

    Celebs join Seagram’s 100 Pipers Glassware to support eradication of corneal blindness in India

    Mumbai: Seagram’s 100 Pipers Glassware Play for a Cause is an initiative that aims to spread awareness about eye donation and the impact it can have to eradicate corneal blindness in the country. Championing the initiative are renowned celebrities including Bhumi Pednekar, Harmanpreet Kaur, Randeep Hooda, Dia Mirza and others, who will inspire people to learn more about the cause and support the initiative.

    As per official sources, there are approximately 1.5 million people suffering from corneal blindness in India, with 40 thousand new cases added every year. Sight for these individuals can be restored by corneal transplantation. However, only about 25 to 30 thousand eyes become available through donations every year – which is negligible compared to the need. This is a disappointing statistic, especially in a country like India where with our population, we need only a minor fraction of people to be donors to eradicate corneal blindness completely from the country. The Play for a Cause campaign seeks to make people aware about the problem and inspire them to be part of the solution.

    This initiative focuses on making an impact by driving awareness and intent towards this critical cause. Seagram’s 100 Pipers Glassware has also partnered with Mohan Foundation, an NGO that has been a pioneer in the realm of organ donation in India for the last 25 years. Inspired by the campaign, people can also go to the Mohan Foundation page to know more about the process of actually becoming eye donors.

    Another key advocate for this initiative is India’s Iconic Rock Band, Parikrama. All members of this legendary rock band have pledged to be organ donors. In fact, last year they also released ‘Translucent Night’, an original song in support for organ donation. As part of this initiative, Parikrama will also perform magical live events in Hyderabad, Bangalore, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Gurgaon, Kolkata, and other cities where they will play Translucent Night among other iconic rock hits.

    100 Pipers Glassware has scaled up The Play for a Cause initiative over many years to support agendas that create a positive impact on society such as fundraising for the Kerala flood victims, aiding Nepal Earthquake relief efforts, and initiatives like providing food for the underprivileged, tree plantation drives among many other.

    “Seagram’s 100 Pipers has always inspired people to go beyond material markers of success to make a positive impact on the world. With Play for a Cause we have, over many years, created a platform where consumers can actively participate in creating that impact – be it raising funds for natural disaster relief, helping feed the underprivileged, or through many other relevant causes. This year, 100 Pipers Glassware Play for a Cause aims to spark a movement that not only spreads awareness about the critical need of corneal donation in our country, but also inspires people to help bring India closer to becoming free from corneal blindness.” commented Pernod Ricard India CMO Kartik Mohindra.

    Brand ambassador, Bhumi Pednekar said, “As the brand ambassador of 100 Pipers Glassware, I am truly grateful for the opportunity to represent a brand that aligns with my values and convictions. I’m dedicated to fostering positive transformation in every way possible. I firmly believe in the importance of contributing to the greater good of our world through my actions. Leading the 100 Pipers Glassware Play for a Cause initiative signifies my endeavour to embrace a future where we strive towards ensuring that we give the gift of sight to every individual suffering from corneal blindness.”

    “I am part of the 100 Pipers Glassware ‘’Play for a Cause’ initiative to highlight my commitment to a vision where every pledge brings us closer to eliminating corneal blindness in India.” Randeep Hooda quotes.

    “Being part of the 100 Pipers Glassware Play for a Cause initiative underscores my dedication to spreading awareness and fostering a future where sight knows no boundaries.” commented Harmanpreet Kaur.

    Dia Mirza also expressed “Proud to stand in support of the 100 Pipers Glassware Play for a Cause initiative, advocating for a society where the gift of sight is a universal right.”

    “Music has the power to touch the deepest parts of our souls and serves as a universal language that unites people from all walks of life. Through our collaboration with 100 Pipers Glassware Play for a Cause initiative, we would like to harness the emotive power of music to inspire individuals, motivating them to pledge as donors and become part of a movement dedicated to eradicating corneal blindness.” commented MOHAN Foundation executive director Pallavi Kumar.

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  • Seagram’s Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films presents Select Films, Select Conversations

    Seagram’s Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films presents Select Films, Select Conversations

    Mumbai: A pioneer in the short film format in India, Seagram’s Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films presents Select Films, Select Conversations. The celebrated short film platform has always recognised and fostered a creative environment encouraging brilliance in short-format filmmaking. Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films over the years has won six Filmfare awards and Oscar qualifications which has made the platform the largest and most credible destination for short films in India. Through this interactive activation platform, the brand aims to foster a creative environment for artists in the industry in two unique and engaging formats with host Mandira Bedi.

    ●   The On-Ground format: This live format travels to three hubs in India – Gurugram, Kolkata and Pune – bringing together some of the most dynamic and discerning film artistes from Indian cinema for an evening of engaging discussions, interactive conversations, and screenings of some of the select movies from the celebrated short film platform, Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films

    ●   The On-Air format: A unique chat show concept spread across three episodes, where five prominent voices from the film industry – Jim Sarbh, Vijay Verma, Kalki Koechlin, Huma Qureshi and Sujoy Ghosh – discuss all things cinema with host Mandira Bedi. The On-air Episodes will be launched with the brand’s streaming partners, Jio Cinema

    The first of three on-ground events took place at DLF Club, Phase IV, Gurugram on Saturday, November 25. During the evening, host Mandira Bedi held an engaging conversation with Vijay Varma, Huma Qureshi, Kalki Koechlin and Swanand Kirkire. ‘Short Films – The Select Choice’ being the theme of the evening, the discussions revolved around the evolution of Indian cinema, diversity of genres and the short film format. It covered the evolution of the cinematic landscape from full length Feature films to Short Films, OTT and Anthologies. The conversation received immense engagement from the audience present at the event. This was followed by the screening of select Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films.

    Commenting on the ideology behind the activation platform, Pernod Ricard India CMO Kartik Mohindra said, “Through the years, Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films has evolved, creating an ecosystem that brings world class storytelling to curious and discerning audiences, thus becoming ‘the’ destination for Indian short films. Select Films, Select Conversations, the brand’s interactive platform, is an embodiment of this ideology, where we seek to explore the originality and creativity of the short film format and set it in the context of cinema today.”

    Speaking about her association with the platform as the host, actress Mandira Bedi said, “I am thrilled to be associated with Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films. Getting to interact with different storytellers, artistes and understanding their diverse perspectives on cinema is a wonderful opportunity. I’m looking forward to all the riveting conversations, behind-the-scenes stories about the short film universe and the interactions with #TheSelectOnes.”

    Actor Vijay Varma said, “It really feels nice to be a part of this unique platform provided by Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films. Any opportunity that brings together artists and stirs up conversations around cinema is precious to me. It’s a great learning experience.”

    Lyricist and actor Swanand Kirkire spoke about the platform, sharing, “The Indian film industry has evolved tremendously since the time I started my career. There are so many different kinds of films being made and appreciated today. When it comes to short films, Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films has been a real gamechanger. The platform brings out the brilliance of short films like nothing else. I am happy to be associated with them in their endeavor to foster a creative environment for artists in this industry.”

    Actor Huma Qureshi said, “I am so happy to see Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films curate an evening where select artistes and storytellers known for their craft come together under one roof and talk all things cinema. From discussing different genres to personal processes, it is absolutely amazing to be a part of this. I look forward to more such opportunities in the future!”

    Actor Kalki Koechlin shared, “With the changing content consumption patterns in today’s world, it’s an exciting time for cinema in India. I feel it is a transformational time for our industry and it is platforms like these that bring about the positive shift. I am delighted to have the opportunity to delve deeper into the world of cinema thanks to Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films.”

    After successfully kicking off in Gurugram, Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films is set to travel to Kolkata and Pune in December 2023. This will be followed by the release of on-air episodes.

  • Seagram’s Royal Stag Packaged Drinking Water unveils ‘A Billion Films for A Billion Fans’ campaign

    Seagram’s Royal Stag Packaged Drinking Water unveils ‘A Billion Films for A Billion Fans’ campaign

    Mumbai: Strengthening its long-standing association with cricket at the global level, Seagram’s Royal Stag is thrilled to announce the launch of an innovative and immersive AI-led fan experience ‘A Billion Films for A Billion Fans’. The campaign features three of India’s most talismanic cricketers, team captain Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Surya Kumar Yadav. Fueling the larger-than-life emotions associated with cricket, the brand aims to ignite a whole new generation of young cricket fans, many of whom are witnessing their first World Cup in India as adults.

    This World Cup is happening in India and is already slated to be the “Greatest World Cup Ever.” Syncing with the brand’s ‘Live it Large’ philosophy, the AI-integrated campaign gives each fan an opportunity to become part of a personalized film featuring the cricketers. Conceptualized in association with creative agency partners FCB India, Digital Agency partners Dentsu India, Technology Partner Artizens Events, and Experiential solutions & media partners Wavemaker; the campaign is groundbreaking where every fan is able to not merely live their dream, but also, live large.

    The whole fan experience has been curated keeping today’s youth, aka, the digital natives, in mind by offering them a simplified user journey. A selfie and a voice sample coupled with the power of regenerative AI creates an ultimate fan experience. With these tools, the campaign uses the power of generative AI technology and machine learning, to create a platform that enables each fan to feature themselves as part of the Royal Stag Live It Large star cast. With the aid of this innovation, each fan can create a personalized edit of the film. Face-mirroring algorithms precisely map the unique facial features of fans onto the characters in the main film. In addition, with just a brief voice sample it also emulated the tone, pitch, and nuances of the fan’s voice. In essence, this campaign will transform the consumer journey into an extraordinary yet personal experience. The consumer experience also gives the fans a chance to go beyond boundaries and get close to their favorite players and World Cup trophy.

    The campaign will be amplified through a high-decibel 360-degree plan spread across digital, print, radio and OOH to offer an immersive, unforgettable experience.

    Pernod Ricard India chief marketing officer Kartik Mohindra stated, “Royal Stag aims to share the electric atmosphere in the stadium with cricket fans across the world. As a partner of ICC, AI allows us to deliver a truly “Live it large” experience to die-hard cricket fans everywhere. This year, we are giving each fan the power to craft their own Live It Large Story through this unique AI platform that integrates with the brand’s commitment to relishing every moment in their journey to success. While on one hand we celebrate cricket’s heritage, on the other we have embraced cutting-edge technology to broaden brand engagement and inspire cricket fans to immerse themselves in their favorite sport like never before.”

    FCB India president Abhinav Kaushik added, “In an age where experience is the only currency amongst the digital natives, how can a cultural icon like Royal Stag do something that epitomizes ‘large’ during the biggest sporting spectacle of the year. This was the starting point of the brief, and we are excited that this idea truly allows every cricket fan to create their own unique ‘Live it Large’ experience. I am confident that this power of creativity fuelled by technology, will not only deliver brand engagement but enhance the love for the brand multi-fold.”

    Wavemaker CEO – South Asia Ajay Gupte said, “Cricket World Cup is undoubtedly one of the most celebrated sports properties and this World Cup 2023 is touted to be the greatest ever. Through this collaboration, we aim to extend brand synergies and offer a unique, memorable, and thrilling ‘Live it Large’ experience to each and every cricket fan”.

    Dentsu Creative India CEO Amit Wadhwa said, “This campaign provided us a big platform where we could showcase how modern creativity can be infused into the Indian Cricket fandom. It’s a great example of how technology can be used to enhance and enrich our connection to sports and entertainment. This multi-faceted campaign has the potential to inspire fans to become more deeply involved in their favorite sport, creating memorable moments and experiences that will stay with them for a long time.”

    Artizens Events & Experiential Solutions founding partner Aditya Joshi said, “As technology partners to this innovative campaign, we are trying to harness the connection with the Generation Large who crave for social currency and vicarious thrills by bringing together AI and Machine learning and creating a never seen before immersive experience.”

    The ICC Men’s World Cup is scheduled to take place in India from 5 October to 19 November. Royal Stag is an associate partner for all ICC events.

  • Chivas urges people to stay safe at home & enjoy responsibly

    Chivas urges people to stay safe at home & enjoy responsibly

    NEW DELHI: Chivas India has launched its latest digital campaign ‘Celebrate Within’ to revive the true meaning of celebration. The campaign features five eminent personalities who through individual films express the joy of celebrating what is within.

    India’s reputed designer duo Shivan and Narresh; actor Kunal Kapoor; acclaimed Indian architect and designer Rooshad Shroff; renowned Indian stylist and fashion entrepreneur Pernia Qureshi; and prominent entrepreneur Kalyani Chawla came together in a series of immersive films that elucidate how moments of celebration are defined by lasting bonds and meaningful relationships that each one enjoys within: at home and with their loved ones. During these unprecedented times, the greatest celebration is one in which you express gratitude, embrace a healthy life, and rejoice the safety of loved ones. This is the lifeblood of celebration and responsible enjoyment.

    Pernod Ricard India CMO Kartik Mohindra said, “True festivities are about a generosity of heart. It is about a gracious giving and gratitude for all that we have: hope, health, happiness, love of family and friends. And wishes for universal wellbeing. Of sharing what we have by opening our hearts and lighting up lives. Expanding the circle of joy by including all in our extended family called humanity. Celebrate the spirit of giving. Enjoy responsibly.”

  • Celebrating the self, Blenders Pride Fashion Tour 2018-19 arrives in Mumbai

    Celebrating the self, Blenders Pride Fashion Tour 2018-19 arrives in Mumbai

    MUMBAI: The 14th edition of the Blenders Pride Fashion Tour celebrated the self and the individual through its extraordinary new concept-‘Pride’, in Mumbai. Designer Rohit Bal showcased his collection ‘Gul-Dastah’ with showstoppers, Sidharth Malhotra and Diana Penty. 

    Pernod Ricard India chief marketing officer Kartik Mohindra said, “Instilled with a strong sense of positive pride, individuals today are driven by confidence and belief for attaining success. Pride, therefore, takes a center stage in defining their individuality, creating their own choices, and self-earned achievement. Blenders Pride Fashion Tour 2018-19, in its 14th edition, brings alive this exclusivity, by rejoicing in individuals who have created their own unique tales of pride and success.”

    Far removed from the traditional confines of mere success, the tour defined ‘Pride’ as an inner sense of achievement, of uniqueness and of individuality, all the things that are, in fact, meaningful for this generation.  Moving ahead from Mumbai, Blenders Pride Fashion Tour 2018-19 will conclude in Kolkata in January 2019.

  • Royal Stag becomes associate sponsor for Asia Cup 2018

    Royal Stag becomes associate sponsor for Asia Cup 2018

    MUMBAI: India’s cricket lovers are in for a sporty and luxurious treat this cricket season as Royal Stag makes it large in the international cricket space – bagging its spot as the associate sponsor for the upcoming Asia Cup 2018.

    Watching a live cricket match between India and Pakistan is always a dream for any cricket fan. Strengthening its association with cricket, the iconic brand provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to cricket enthusiasts across the country to travel to Dubai and get a chance to witness India take on Pakistan live at the Asia Cup. Fans can participate in the ‘India’s Largest Fan’ contest by Royal Stag and be among the 100 lucky winners from India to see the live clash between the two arch-rivals in Dubai.

    Cricket is more than just a sport in our country and Royal Stag is all set to provide this opportunity to the die-hard cricket worshippers by fulfilling their wishes of witnessing an international Indo-Pak match and cheer for the men in blue in Dubai cricket grounds.

    Pernod Ricard India chief marketing officer Kartik Mohindra says, “Royal Stag’s ‘India’s Largest Fan’ contest is the perfect opportunity for our patrons to fulfill their dream of watching India play Pakistan live at the cricket stadium and we will leave no stone unturned in making this a once in a lifetime experience for them. Cricket is worshipped like a religion in India and we understand the passion people have for the sport in this country. Our association with Asia Cup 2018 will further reinforce our association with cricket. Royal Stag has always lived up to its brand philosophy of ‘Make it large’. With India’s Largest Fan, we hope to give cricket lovers a ‘money can’t buy experience’ in Dubai, truly making it large in full glory.”

  • ‘Suits’ star Gabriel Macht in Ballantine’s India ad campaign

    ‘Suits’ star Gabriel Macht in Ballantine’s India ad campaign

    MUMBAI: Scotch whisky brand Ballantine’s is all set to launch an exclusive India specific campaign with the Suits star Gabriel Macht.

     

    With the new brand positioning of ‘Stay True,’ which will be accompanied by a marketing campaign with the tagline ‘Stay True, Leave an Impression’ featuring Macht.

     

    Conceptualised by Ballantine’s, the ‘Stay True, Leave an Impression’ campaign serves as an invitation to the Indian consumers to express themselves in a genuine and authentic way. Authenticity, self-belief and conviction are at the heart of this new campaign. 

     

    The video-led campaign will also be integrated across print, digital and outdoor media.

     

    The entire video is about two worlds: the world of self-belief and staying true juxtaposed by a world of sycophants with shifting loyalties. The tension between these two worlds is what brings out the brand idea of leaving a mark by being yourself, of making it to the top on your own terms.

     

    The film does this through a depiction of a ‘day in the life of’ the corporate world – the charades, the fake smiles, the pretentious jokes and the ‘yes man-ship’ that plays out every day – as seen through the eyes of our protagonist during his journey through a typical corporate office.

     

    The novel freeze-frame treatment further heightens this parody of power-play that the brand unequivocally disapproves of. Ballantine’s, which celebrates individuality and originality since 1827, raises a toast to the ‘real ones’ in a world full of fakes. The message: success is lasting for those who hold true.

     

    Macht said, “It is an honour for me to shoot for Ballantine’s well-crafted campaign in line with its philosophy of ‘Stay True.’ This association is a perfect match as I truly relate to brand’s attribute of staying true to one’s character and maintaining one’s integrity. Ballantine’s is one of the finest whiskies with unique richness of character and perfect balance. It has been a memorable experience shooting for the campaign and hope the Indian audience will appreciate it too.”

     

    Pernod Ricard India head – international brands Kartik Mohindra added, “George Ballantine stayed true and left an impression with the whiskies that he created. With this campaign, we want to continue his legacy by creating a platform that celebrates Ballantine’s and its founder’s intrinsic values. We hope to inspire people to have conviction to stay true to themselves, to follow their passions and to remain as genuine and authentic as they can be.”

     

    Ogilvy & Mather, New Delhi executive creative director Ajay Gahlaut said, “There are the movers and the shakers who are here today and gone tomorrow. Their allegiances are based on self-gain and change with changing winds. And then there are those few who quietly go about doing what they believe in, undeflected in purpose and unswayed by criticism. These are the ones who are remembered. They are the ones who leave an indelible mark on time. They are the ones who lead by example. This film is about them.”

     

    “There is something very inspiring about individuals who live by what they believe in. They are hard to find but they are there. This is the individual of integrity that the brand sought to associate itself with. And this is what led us to close in on Gabriel Macht. He, in a way, echoes everything that the brand stands for. There are strong affinities about who he is in real life and the character roles that he depicts in his professional life, with our brand values. So his character accentuates the stark differences between the two worlds that the film has captured. And the master stroke is the treatment of the film itself that creates a taut tension between the two worlds,” Gahlaut added.