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Tag: Mahesh Gupta

  • KENT RO sets CSR emerging trend by buying AquaKredits

    KENT RO sets CSR emerging trend by buying AquaKredits

    Mumbai: Art of Living an international humanitarian organisation led by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji, announced its latest initiative to solicit corporate social responsibility (CSR) of qualified companies by investing in AquaKredits – water credits. This strategic move is a part of the organisation’s broader commitment to sustainable business practices and responsible water management. KENT RO, manufacturer of water purifiers and home appliances, has pioneered this initiative by buying AquaKredits under its CSR.

    AquaKredits issued by AqVerium, the world’s digital water bank, is an innovative approach to assessing and valuing water quality. AquaKredits are issued based on a stringent water audit, verification & validation of impact data and other evaluating factors. Each Art of Living was non-profit to onboard all its water conservation projects on AqVerium, which went through stringent verification and validation of the reported impact basis on which AquaKredits were issued. In the first phase, AqVerium has issued 467,054 AquaKredits for creating an additional 46, 70, 54,025 litres through recharge pits. Each AquaKredit represents 1000 litres of water saved, conserved or harvested.

    Water scarcity is a critical global issue, and businesses play a crucial role in addressing this challenge. In line with KENT RO’s dedication to environmental stewardship, the company has proactively engaged in purchasing AquaKredits under its CSR obligations.

    KENT RO Chairman Mahesh Gupta commented on the initiative, saying, “At KENT RO we recognize the importance of sustainable water management in preserving our environment and supporting communities. Our decision to invest in AquaKredits is a testament to our commitment to responsible business practices and corporate social responsibility. Through our CSR we are actively contributing to the conservation and sustainable use of this precious resource.”

    Art of Living Social Projects Chairman Prasanna Prabhu said, “We are very excited with this pioneering and benevolent gesture by Shri Mahesh Gupta ji, which opens a whole new vista to qualified corporates to participate in sustainable Water Management through the purchase of AquaKredits – Water Credits under CSR. Our partnership with AqVerium, founded by Dr. Subramanya Kusnur, New Waterman of India, is a testament to providing complete transparency to donors powered with a data scientific tool of the impact achieved through AquaKredits. These AquaKredits, bought at Rs 100 each, not only are representative of the cost involved in conserving water but also the genuine intent, effort and commitment of all stakeholders which is priceless.”

    AqVerium provides a platform for all stakeholders to demonstrate their commitment to water sustainability and stewardship by incentivising good behaviour with AquaKredits which can be offset to balance water deficit or bought by qualified corporates under CSR.

    Speaking on the occasion, Architect of CSR law and widely acclaimed as the Father of CSR in India (ex-IAS) Dr Bhaskar Chatterjee said “It is a very momentous occasion as we celebrate 10 years of CSR in India and what better to have AquaKredit as an effective tool for impact assessment and measurement for water sustainability. Water is core to sustainability and human life and investing in AquaKredits qualifies for CSR under The Companies Act 2013, section 135, schedule 7, Item 4. It also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. I take this opportunity to invite corporates to emulate this pioneering partnership between Art of Living, Kent RO and AqVerium and exemplify their commitment to water sustainability.“

     

  • Kent RO’s film honours building watchmen on Independence Day

    Kent RO’s film honours building watchmen on Independence Day

    NEW DELHI: As the nation preps up to commemorate its seventy-fourth Independence Day, Kent RO has come up with a campaign #NewNazairya which is currently doing the rounds of digital media. The first short digital film has a core message at its heart: let’s celebrate the unsung heroes who have helped us during the raging Covid2019 pandemic by bringing them centre stage on Independence Day.

    Conceptualised and produced by Jigsaw Pictures, it begins with the secretary of a residential housing society looking upset when he is informed that he will not be hoisting the flag on 15 August like he has been doing for the past five years. That’s because Ramdhan will be taking his place, he is told, and that change for him is unwelcome and undignified. His wife, who overhears his annoyance, calmly fills a glass of water from a Kent RO water purifier and while he sips from it she explains to him that there is dignity in getting freedom from old and sick thinking.  “Whether it’s you or Ramdhan, all are equal. Maybe he’s more than equal.”

    The next shot reveals who Ramdhan is: the watchman or security guard of the building complex. Masked and very grateful at being given the honour, he hoists the national colours with the members urging him on and saluting the flag.  A beaming Ramdhan gratefully acknowledges the honour that has been thrust on him. The secretary’s wife then says: “This act was his right. He kept us safe 24 hours every day during the pandemic.”

    The film ends with a voiceover declaring: “Let’s celebrate Independence Day by honouring our Covid2019 warriors.”

    At first glance, it looks like a very ordinary film, a simple thought, a simple truth, which has been used in many a film earlier in the past few months. But its message is deep. The SarsCov2 virus has taught us that it does not differentiate between rich and poor, it infects both, and kills both. It is the great leveller, just as death. The film makes us ponder how we can acknowledge this and respect those who keep us safe. And it brings to our attention the watchmen who are under our noses, but whom we take for granted.

    “We have all experienced the surge of humanism and equality around and within us due to many who have come forth to help us be safe and survive,” says Jigsaw Pictures founder and creative producer Rajnish Lall. “Amongst the set of Corona warriors, the one who didn’t get much appreciation widely was the security guard or watchman manning our residences as they are not specialists.”

    Adds Lall: “Watchmen all over India have gone beyond their defined duties and duty hours; they have made huge sacrifices. They have ensured that social distancing is practised and thus have helped millions of us escape the ravages of the infection. This is our way of reminding us of their contribution. We hope many other residential buildings and societies take note after watching our film and acknowledge their watchmen too. That will give us the greatest satisfaction.”

    Kent Ro has collaborated with the official brand ambassador Hema Malini in most of its advertising. However, this time the brand has opted for well-known film and TV actors Apara Mehta and Feroz Bhagat, who are playing the husband and wife in this film.

     “Kent Water Purifiers and Hema Malini are synonymous because of their long and impactful association,” explains Lall. “But as in the past, Kent makes its digital medium communications with actors other than Hema Malini. Because of the values the brand and she share, she’ll also be happy with the purity of thought in this communication and help spread it.”

    The producer shared that filming in early August was a different experience altogether, “We shot in a restricted controlled environment. We had to ensure that everyone felt safe on the set hence extra efforts had to be put to adhere to the SOPs set by the government. Then the post-production had to be done completely from remote which is much more taxing and time-consuming both. This really tested the patience of all the team members since weren’t around to see or hear and approve every bit of creative,” Lall points out. “But after seeing the end result I really believe it has been worth it.”

  • Firdaus couplet in Kent RO film rejuvenates India’s bond with ‘heavenly’ Kashmir

    Firdaus couplet in Kent RO film rejuvenates India’s bond with ‘heavenly’ Kashmir

    MUMBAI: Gar Firdaus bar-rue zamin ast, hami asto, hamin asto, hamin ast. (If there is a heaven on earth, it’s here…). How beautiful a feeling is it to enjoy or recollect the wonderful memories of Kashmir — the ‘heavenly’ arm of India.

    Vaadi-e-Kashmir, a short film on Kashmir, a CSR initiative of Kent RO, has been created by Law & Kenneth Saatchi & Saatchi. It has been dedicated to the nation by the home minister Rajnath Singh, and MP Hema Malini along with Kent RO Systems chairman Mahesh Gupta.

    The film starts with an introduction by one of the most distinguished personalities — Amitabh Bachchan. Also shot in the backdrop of beautiful valley of Kashmir with its stunning mountains, greenery and shikara, the video is fascinating. The outstandingly captivating song sung by Shankar Mahadevan and composed by Shankar/Ehsaan/Loy with lyrics by Gulzaar, lifts the film and the message to a whole new level.

    This 6-minute film, directed by the legendary film maker Pradeep Sarkar, has been shot over a period of two weeks in Kashmir. Sarkar says: “Falling in love at the age of 62 years is possible… it happened to me when I went and met Kashmir! Believe it, we all need to know her a little better!”

    This film showcases the warmth, oneness and love that we share with Kashmir and its people, and also serves up the magical slice of Kashmir that we all celebrate. The film is on air now.

    It endeavours to knit the people of Kashmir with the rest of the country in an open-hearted, warm and compassionate message of togetherness. It is a joyful celebration of a diverse country that we inhabit, Kashmir included! The film splendidly appreciates the mesmerising beauty of the valley of Kashmir and its people.

    Gupta, says: “It’s a simple film which carries a message of oneness, with Purity of Heart and Intent. Just like what Kent RO stands for, purity.”

    Malini has been the curator of this film, working closely with Gupta, Kenneth and the team. Sharing her thoughts, she adds: “Ye film mere ek Bhartiye hone ke naate… hamare pyare Kashmir se judne… aur hamare Kashmiri bhaiyo behonon ke dil ko chhoone ka ek prayas hai…” (As an Indian, this film is my attempt to reach out to Kashmir and touch the hearts of our brothers and sisters in the Valley.)

    Kenneth adds: “The task at hand, keeping in mind the current sensitivity of Kashmir was challenging. We met a myriad set of people, both in Kashmir and outside, to find a starting point. We had to keep it simple.”

    The ‘purity’ of Kashmir would revitalise Indians’ love for the ‘heaven.’

  • Season 4 of ‘Runway to Success’ from Lufthansa and Times Network takes off

    Season 4 of ‘Runway to Success’ from Lufthansa and Times Network takes off

    MUMBAI:  50,000 contestants are vying for top honours in Season 4 of India’s biggest SME stage, Lufthansa Runway to Success. The 10-episode television series, produced in partnership with The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) and India’s premier business broadcast channel ET Now, begins 4 June 2016.

    Lufthansa Runway to Success has grown exponentially over the past three years to be amongst India’s most popular platform for start-ups & SMEs. Preceding the competitive leg each year, are free mentorship camps held across the country where over 50 mentors invest time in guiding young entrepreneurs. Additionally, this season saw for the first time ‘The Start-up Expo’, co-created by Lufthansa, and recognised as India’s largest ecosystem for start-ups. The unique event brought together 10,000 participants and led to 50,000 applicants for the TV series, a 100 per cent increase over last season.

    From the vast array of contenders, the 21 most innovative ventures will be shortlisted by TiE business experts to compete in the series. The Grand Prize winner will fly away with a seat at the prestigious Design Thinking Boot Camp at Stanford University sponsored by Kalaari Capital, a Business Class ticket to any destination in the US and coveted mentorship from TiE.

    In partnering the success of Indian business, the Runway to Success platform reflects Lufthansa’s Nonstop You philosophy which pledges a relentless focus on its customers and people in the community. It also reinforces the airline’s commitment to be ‘More Indian than you think.’

    “It has been an absolute privilege for Lufthansa to be an enabler in India’s entrepreneurial revolution. The overwhelming response to the Runway to Success platform has led to its progressive expansion over the past three years into what is today a nationwide campaign. It is also an affirmation of the fact that as an airline, Lufthansa truly has an Indian heart within a German soul,” said Wolfgang Will, Director, South Asia, Lufthansa German Airlines.

    “At a time when young entrepreneurs are the driving force of the Indian economy, Runway to Success is recognized as a crucial growth catalyst for Start-ups and SMEs,” said TiE Delhi-NCR executive director Geetika Dayal. “The unprecedented success of this platform, built through a unique partnership with TiE, reflects Lufthansa’s strong commitment to enabling the success of entrepreneurs in India.”

    The Runway to Success TV series will feature leading icons such as C P Gurnani, CEO and Managing Director, Tech Mahindra; Dr. Mahesh Gupta, President, PHD Chamber, and Chairman & Managing Director, Kent RO Systems; Ajay Kaul, CEO, Jubliant FoodWorks; Alok Kejriwal CEO and co-founder, Games2win; Dilip Chhabria, founder DC Designs; celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor; and Sri Madhu Pandit Dasa, Chairman, The Akshaya Patra Foundation. These pioneers will inspire, motivate, mentor and select the best among 3 shortlisted entrepreneurs in each episode, who will each win a Business Class ticket to the US, and then go on to compete in the semi-finals and finale for the Grand Prize. A parallel “Viewer’s Choice” award will also be decided via social media, through online voting based on elevator pitch videos by the contestants.

    This year, the Runway to Success TV series was preceded by mentorship camps in 10 cities, including Jaipur, Hyderabad, Chandigarh, Pune and Chennai amongst others. This was followed by the first-ever ‘Start-up Expo’ organized in Gurgaon end-April. The Expo attracted more than 30 investors, 100 partners, 200 start-up exhibitors, 500 mentors, and 10,000 participants. The one-day event facilitated over 700 business meetings, a start-up job fair, and day-long interactive workshops drawing over 3000 participants. It was attended by an array of government dignitaries and business icons including Mr. Amitabh Kant, CEO Niti Ayog & architect of the Government of India’s Start up initiative; Mr. Ramesh Abhishek, Secretary of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP); Mr. Saurabh Srivastava Chairman Emeritus TiE, Delhi and NCR; Mr. Deep Kalra; founder, Makemytrip.com; Mr. Sanjeev Bhikchandani, Vice Chairman naukri.com amongst others.

    Times Network CEO & MD M K Anand said, “Lufthansa Runway to Success is an experience which will inspire you ahead on the journey of entrepreneurship like never before with live access to illustrious minds, exciting discussions, and a grand celebration of the spirit of entrepreneurship. Lufthansa Runway To Success, now in its fourth season, is an excellent showcase of the ideas, efforts and achievements of SMEs, which deserve the biggest news audiences. As India’s most influential television network with the biggest English and Business news channels, we are pleased that our channel ET Now, India’s foremost business news channel, will provide it the right communication platform it deserves.”

    Note to Editor:

    Lufthansa Runway to Success season 4, India’s biggest SME stage will feature India’s 21 most innovative ventures who inspired, guided and mentored by 7 pioneers. Please find below a brief profile of the participants as well as pioneers. 

  • Season 4 of ‘Runway to Success’ from Lufthansa and Times Network takes off

    Season 4 of ‘Runway to Success’ from Lufthansa and Times Network takes off

    MUMBAI:  50,000 contestants are vying for top honours in Season 4 of India’s biggest SME stage, Lufthansa Runway to Success. The 10-episode television series, produced in partnership with The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) and India’s premier business broadcast channel ET Now, begins 4 June 2016.

    Lufthansa Runway to Success has grown exponentially over the past three years to be amongst India’s most popular platform for start-ups & SMEs. Preceding the competitive leg each year, are free mentorship camps held across the country where over 50 mentors invest time in guiding young entrepreneurs. Additionally, this season saw for the first time ‘The Start-up Expo’, co-created by Lufthansa, and recognised as India’s largest ecosystem for start-ups. The unique event brought together 10,000 participants and led to 50,000 applicants for the TV series, a 100 per cent increase over last season.

    From the vast array of contenders, the 21 most innovative ventures will be shortlisted by TiE business experts to compete in the series. The Grand Prize winner will fly away with a seat at the prestigious Design Thinking Boot Camp at Stanford University sponsored by Kalaari Capital, a Business Class ticket to any destination in the US and coveted mentorship from TiE.

    In partnering the success of Indian business, the Runway to Success platform reflects Lufthansa’s Nonstop You philosophy which pledges a relentless focus on its customers and people in the community. It also reinforces the airline’s commitment to be ‘More Indian than you think.’

    “It has been an absolute privilege for Lufthansa to be an enabler in India’s entrepreneurial revolution. The overwhelming response to the Runway to Success platform has led to its progressive expansion over the past three years into what is today a nationwide campaign. It is also an affirmation of the fact that as an airline, Lufthansa truly has an Indian heart within a German soul,” said Wolfgang Will, Director, South Asia, Lufthansa German Airlines.

    “At a time when young entrepreneurs are the driving force of the Indian economy, Runway to Success is recognized as a crucial growth catalyst for Start-ups and SMEs,” said TiE Delhi-NCR executive director Geetika Dayal. “The unprecedented success of this platform, built through a unique partnership with TiE, reflects Lufthansa’s strong commitment to enabling the success of entrepreneurs in India.”

    The Runway to Success TV series will feature leading icons such as C P Gurnani, CEO and Managing Director, Tech Mahindra; Dr. Mahesh Gupta, President, PHD Chamber, and Chairman & Managing Director, Kent RO Systems; Ajay Kaul, CEO, Jubliant FoodWorks; Alok Kejriwal CEO and co-founder, Games2win; Dilip Chhabria, founder DC Designs; celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor; and Sri Madhu Pandit Dasa, Chairman, The Akshaya Patra Foundation. These pioneers will inspire, motivate, mentor and select the best among 3 shortlisted entrepreneurs in each episode, who will each win a Business Class ticket to the US, and then go on to compete in the semi-finals and finale for the Grand Prize. A parallel “Viewer’s Choice” award will also be decided via social media, through online voting based on elevator pitch videos by the contestants.

    This year, the Runway to Success TV series was preceded by mentorship camps in 10 cities, including Jaipur, Hyderabad, Chandigarh, Pune and Chennai amongst others. This was followed by the first-ever ‘Start-up Expo’ organized in Gurgaon end-April. The Expo attracted more than 30 investors, 100 partners, 200 start-up exhibitors, 500 mentors, and 10,000 participants. The one-day event facilitated over 700 business meetings, a start-up job fair, and day-long interactive workshops drawing over 3000 participants. It was attended by an array of government dignitaries and business icons including Mr. Amitabh Kant, CEO Niti Ayog & architect of the Government of India’s Start up initiative; Mr. Ramesh Abhishek, Secretary of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP); Mr. Saurabh Srivastava Chairman Emeritus TiE, Delhi and NCR; Mr. Deep Kalra; founder, Makemytrip.com; Mr. Sanjeev Bhikchandani, Vice Chairman naukri.com amongst others.

    Times Network CEO & MD M K Anand said, “Lufthansa Runway to Success is an experience which will inspire you ahead on the journey of entrepreneurship like never before with live access to illustrious minds, exciting discussions, and a grand celebration of the spirit of entrepreneurship. Lufthansa Runway To Success, now in its fourth season, is an excellent showcase of the ideas, efforts and achievements of SMEs, which deserve the biggest news audiences. As India’s most influential television network with the biggest English and Business news channels, we are pleased that our channel ET Now, India’s foremost business news channel, will provide it the right communication platform it deserves.”

    Note to Editor:

    Lufthansa Runway to Success season 4, India’s biggest SME stage will feature India’s 21 most innovative ventures who inspired, guided and mentored by 7 pioneers. Please find below a brief profile of the participants as well as pioneers.