MUMBAI: Textile yarn and fabric maker RSWM, the flagship company of LNJ Bhilwara group, has brought in former Sintex (Reliance Industries) chief executive officer (CEO) Rajeev Gupta as CEO.
Gupta has about 30 years’ experience working across textile, paper and consulting for the textile industry. Amongst the organisations he has left his imprint upon include: Trident group (18 years – textiles and paper), Blue Apple Tradelinks (six years- consulting), Sutlej Textiles (two years) and Reliance Industries (almost three years- textiles) .
Gupta, a qualified cost accountant, also holds an MBA in management, and has completed has done his entrepreneurship and leadership programme from the Indian School of Business.
“With a wealth of experience in the textile industry and a proven track record of leadership, Gupta brings a fresh perspective and unparalleled expertise to the Bhilwara family. An inspiring figure in India’s textile landscape, his vision and strategic acumen are set to strengthen RSWM’s legacy while driving innovation and growth. We are excited to embark on this journey under his guidance, as we continue to lead with purpose and sustainability,” said RSWM in a post on linkedin. .
Mumbai: LNJ Bhilwara Group’s flagship company RSWM recently unveiled its new digital campaign, “For All Reasons, For All Seasons,” celebrating over sixty years of enriching Indian lives through quality textiles. This initiative highlights the deep emotional connections woven into the fabric of everyday experiences, showcasing how RSWM’s yarns and fabrics have been a trusted companion through various life stages. The campaign features a poignant short film that captures the essence of these moments, from a baby’s first steps to a soldier’s bravery, emphasising the craftsmanship and dedication behind every thread.
Indiantelevision.com’s Arth Chakraborty caught up with RSWM’s joint managing director B.M. Sharma to discuss the primary objectives of the campaign, the creative process behind the film, the subtle promotion of RSWM’s products and more…
Edited Excerpts:
On the primary objectives behind launching the ‘For All Reasons, For All Seasons’ campaign, and its alignment with RSWM’s legacy and vision for the future
With this new campaign ‘For All Reasons, For All Seasons’, our aim was to celebrate RSWM’s 60-year journey and weave a stronger emotional tapestry with our customers. Our primary objective was to paint a vivid picture of how our brand has been a faithful companion through life’s myriad seasons, adapting to changing trends while staying true to our core values.
This campaign isn’t just about showcasing products; it’s about highlighting the human connections we’ve fostered over six decades. Picture a warm, familiar presence that’s been there for every milestone, every celebration, every quiet moment – that’s the RSWM story we’re telling. As we unfold this narrative, we’re also creating a sense of anticipation for what’s next to come. Our goal is to position RSWM not just as a manufacturer, but as a trusted companion on our customers’ journeys. This approach bridges our rich legacy with our vision for the future, reflecting our commitment to innovation and customer-centric values.
On the creative process behind the campaign’s film, and the significance of highlighting different stages of life through RSWM’s fabrics
The creative process behind our campaign’s film was truly a journey through emotions and time. We wanted to capture the essence of RSWM’s six-decade presence in people’s lives, showing how we’ve been there, like an invisible friend, through every stage and season. In a country where almost every festival is associated with clothing, as a manufacturer we have been part of every household witnessing their lives closely. Our film takes viewers on a journey through sixty years of moments – joys, sorrows, triumphs, and challenges. By featuring our fabrics in various life stages, from newborns to grandparents, we’re telling a story of resilience, innovation, and trust.
The significance of this approach is to show that RSWM is more than just a brand – we’re a companion and confidante. Our fabrics have been there for the first days at school, graduations, and countless other milestones. We’ve adapted to changing trends while remaining a constant presence in homes, hearts, and hopes.
This campaign isn’t just about our products; it’s about the stories woven into every thread. It’s our way of saying we’ve been there, unseen but ever-present, for all seasons and all reasons, and we’ll continue to be part of people’s life stories for generations to come.
On the subtle approach to promoting RSWM’s products in the campaign, and believing it enhances the viewer’s connection with the brand
In crafting our campaign, we made a deliberate choice to use thread as a ‘sutradhar’ or storyteller, rather than focusing on the product itself. This subtle approach was key to creating a deeper, more emotional connection with our audience. Instead of highlighting the features, functions, or USPs of our threads, we chose to showcase their applications and the emotional resonance they have with our target group. This strategy allows viewers to see beyond the physical product and connect with the role RSWM plays in their lives.
By weaving our threads into various life moments and stages, we’re demonstrating that these are threads you can trust for quality. They’re not just materials; they’re part of your life story. What’s interesting about this approach is its versatility. At first glance, many might perceive it as a B2C video. However, if you look closer, you’ll realize that it resonates at multiple levels – B2B, B2C, and even B2I.
We believe this approach creates a more lasting impression and stronger brand loyalty. It’s not just about what we sell, but about how we’ve been a part of people’s lives across generations. This emotional connection, we feel, is far more powerful than any product feature could be.
On the production process of the campaign film and the steps taken to ensure that the visuals and narratives effectively conveyed the campaign’s message
The production process for our campaign film was an exciting journey that began with a powerful script. The narrator’s voice instantly connected with our vision of telling an untold story. We presented this challenge to our production house, aiming to create something impactful without relying on celebrity endorsements. Casting was a crucial part of the process. We wanted to showcase the strength of our idea through talented, actors. It was a meticulous process – we filtered through 150 actors to find our final cast of 35, ensuring each could effectively convey the emotion and authenticity we needed. For shooting this video, we covered seven locations and 18 sequences in a hectic seven-day schedule, totaling over 80 hours of shoot time. Despite working with a conservative budget, everyone involved was so excited about the idea that they gave their 100 per cent. We paid attention to every detail to ensure our visuals and narratives effectively conveyed the campaign’s message.
To ensure our visuals and narratives effectively conveyed the campaign’s message, we paid attention to every detail. For instance, the music, which plays a crucial role in connecting with the audience, was originally composed in Rajasthani as a nod to our brand’s origins. However, we later re-recorded it in Punjabi for broader mass appeal. The music became an unseen hero of our campaign, instantly resonating with viewers. Throughout the production, our focus was on creating authentic, relatable scenes that would showcase how RSWM has been woven into the fabric of people’s lives across generations. By combining compelling visuals, emotive performances, and a carefully crafted narrative, we were able to effectively convey our campaign’s message of being there ‘For All Reasons, For All Seasons’.
On the digital marketing strategy for the campaign, and your plan to engage both long-time customers and a new generation of consumers through this approach
Our marketing strategy for this campaign was designed to be digital-first, aiming to engage both our long-time customers and a new generation of consumers. We focused on targeting only audience with relation to or with interest in the textile industry in our key cities across the nation. The objective of the campaign was creating high-quality, emotionally resonant content that could be shared across multiple digital platforms. Our main strategies included leveraging YouTube for video content, utilizing social media platforms for wider reach and engagement, and optimizing our website to handle increased traffic.
In terms of brand awareness, we’ve seen significant improvements. Our campaign reached three million people, garnered one million views on YouTube in just three weeks, and led to a 34 per cent increase in branded keyword searches. This increased visibility has helped us connect with a wider audience, including younger consumers who are primarily active on digital platforms. The engagement has been exceptional, with over three lakh engagements on social media. The campaign’s success is also reflected in our website traffic and overall brand sentiment. We experienced 190 per cent increase in users and sessions. This indicates that both our existing customers and new potential consumers are showing increased interest in our brand. Our engagement strategy focused on encouraging interaction across all platforms. For a brand doing this kind of campaign for the first time, these results are hugely encouraging and validate our digital-first approach.
Mumbai: The LNJ Bhilwara Group, one of India’s leading conglomerates with diverse business interests, successfully orchestrated a mesmerizing evening of classical melodies in New Delhi with the 11th edition of its iconic Bhilwara Sur Sangam. On its opening day, Bhilwara Sur Sangam attracted more than 500 music aficionados nationwide to immerse in diverse classical melodies.
The event commenced with a solemn lamp-lighting ceremony, followed by a special tribute to one of the finest Hindustani classical vocalists, Late Vidushi Manik Bhide, for her invaluable contribution to the world of music, a gesture that resonated deeply with the audience.
The evening unfolded with a soul-stirring presentation by violinist Manas Kumar, who wove a tapestry of symphony with each note, casting a spell over the audience and transporting them to realms of pure musical ecstasy. The evening reached its pinnacle when legendary vocalist, Dr Ashwini Bhide Deshpande, took over the stage, enchanting the audience with her mesmerizing performance. The resonating voice of Dr Ashwini intertwined with the symphonic melodies of Indian musical instruments, ignited a profound sense of cultural pride among the attendees.
This two-day music festival, Bhilwara Sur Sangam, stands as a testament to the LNJ Bhilwara Group’s enduring commitment to classical music and its profound impact on society. More than a musical event, it is a celebration that symbolises cultural support and artistic brilliance, inspiring future generations to cherish and sustain Indian musical heritage.
As the final notes faded into the night, leaving behind an indelible imprint on hearts and minds alike, Bhilwara Sur Sangam once again united music lovers across boundaries. The spellbinding allure persisted on Sunday as Ustad Waseem Ahmed Khan and Pandit Budhaditya Mukherjee take the stage, ensuring an enchanting musical experience.
Mumbai: Bhilwara Kings are set to make a resounding return in the second season of the Legends League Cricket (LLC), promising a grander spectacle for cricket enthusiasts. As a proud franchise owned by the LNJ Bhilwara Group, a multi-diversified conglomerate, the team is gearing up to compete with three other formidable contenders to seize the coveted trophy.
In accordance with the tournament policy, the LNJ Bhilwara Group has exercised its player retention right by securing the services of Captain Irfan Pathan for the upcoming season. The team has also retained the stellar talents of Yusuf Pathan, the Player of the Series in LLC’s inaugural season, and the formidable Shane Watson. It has brought 12 other players from the pool of more than 200 players in the auction held recently.
Expressing enthusiasm for the team’s return, Riju Jhunjhunwala, Chairman and Managing Director of RSWM Ltd. (LNJ Bhilwara Group’s textile venture) said, “The first season of the Legends League Cricket was enthralling. We are anticipating an action-packed season and are determined to clinch the trophy. We eagerly await the upcoming tournament.”
A total of 19 matches will be played among the four teams, commencing on 18 November. The two qualifying teams will engage in a gripping final match on December 9th. The franchise-based tournament, featuring a pool of over 200 players, will unfold across five cities− Ranchi, Dehradun, Jammu, Vizag, and Surat. Further details about the event and the comprehensive player pool will be announced by the league in the coming weeks.
Excited for the second season for the LLC, Bhilwara King captain Irfan Pathan, said, “I am very excited to be with Kings again. We had a wonderful time last season. We just missed out on one game, otherwise, we were pretty good throughout the season. The management is outstanding. Riju Ji, the boss, has been wonderful. We had a pretty fantastic, packed background team to make sure we had a wonderful time throughout the tournament. The support we get is outstanding. That’s why I feel like it is home. Being back with Bhilwara Kings is exciting and I am very happy about it. Looking forward to the new season, looking forward to the new team. Looking forward to a great season with everyone.”
Bhilwara King Coach Lalchand said, “It’s been a great experience working with Bhilwara King. We were like one family and never felt that we were outsiders. The management was superb, and they never interfered in the cricketing matters and gave us a free hand. I am excited and looking forward to work together in the coming season.”
In the maiden season, LLC achieved remarkable success, captivating millions of cricket fans globally, The LNJ Bhilwara Group secured the second position after a thrilling final against the India Capitals.
Mumbai: Legends League Cricket has onboarded LNJ Bhilwara Group as the fourth franchise in the league for this season. From textiles and fashion to EV batteries, this company is making the grand transition into the sports business with this investment.
Adani Group, GMR Group, and Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG) have already acquired franchises in the Legends League Cricket recently.
The league, which is being played in India for the first time, is dedicated to the 75th anniversary celebration of Indian Independence and is being held in India from 16 September. The upcoming edition of the league will have four teams playing from 16 September to 8 October 2022 in six cities.
The league will be played at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, followed by Lucknow, New Delhi, Cuttack, and Jodhpur.
Legends League Cricket founder and chairman Vivek Khushalani said, “We welcome Riju Jhunjhunwala of the LNJ Bhilwara group to be part of the Legends League Cricket. When we went to him with this idea, his enthusiasm was such that we knew that he was going to be part of our team. We are glad that he finally decided, and I thank him once again for all the support.”
The $1.2 billion LNJ Bhilwara Group is known for its apparel and garments. It recently diversified into EV batteries.
LNJ Bhilwara Group chairman Riju Jhunjhunwala said, “No sport can ever claim the love and popularity cricket has in our country. I am proud to be part of Legend’s clan, which has a religion-like fan following. In my career, I have watched so many cricketers, but this is a different feeling altogether to be part of the game. I am really looking forward to this season and many more of them.”