ITV

Tag: MS Dhoni

  • Citroën shifts gears with alterType’s fresh spin

    Citroën shifts gears with alterType’s fresh spin

    MUMBAI: Citroën India is shifting gears, and this time, the ride feels unmistakably homegrown. The French automaker’s latest brand campaign, Shift Into The New, crafted by independent creative agency alterType, infuses a refreshing Indian flavour into Citroën’s signature design-led sophistication.

    As Citroën’s lead creative agency, alterType has been tasked with steering the brand into its next chapter, repositioning models like the C3X, Aircross X, and Basalt X as smart, stylish, and family-friendly choices for Indian consumers. The campaign captures the brand’s promise of comfort, intelligence, and modern mobility, retold through the lens of contemporary Indian life, where aspiration meets everyday ease.

    Adding star power to the shift is MS Dhoni, Citroën India’s brand ambassador, whose calm confidence and precision mirror the brand’s philosophy. His presence deepens Citroën’s growing emotional connect with Indian audiences, reinforcing the blend of trust and quiet strength that defines both the cricketer and the carmaker.

    “Shift Into The New isn’t just a campaign; it’s how Citroën communicates who it is today,” said alterType co-founder and managing director Siddharth Loyal. “We wanted to evolve Citroën’s voice from niche and European to confident, contemporary, and distinctly human.”

    The multi-platform campaign, spanning television, digital, and social media, introduces a refreshed brand language across Citroën’s lineup, celebrating motion, energy, and control. Each film brings Citroën’s hallmark comfort and design to life with an unmistakably Indian spirit, showcasing how global sophistication can meet local sensibilities without missing a beat.

    “This campaign captures our commitment to innovation and a modern Indian perspective,” said Automotive Brands, Stellantis India business head and director Kumar Priyesh. “It’s about making every drive more comfortable, more enjoyable, and more Citroën.”

    With Shift Into The New, Citroën and alterType have done more than just launch a campaign, they’ve created a cultural crossover, where French finesse meets Indian flair, and every drive feels like home. 

  • Men of Platinum gives fans a rare face-to-face with Dhoni

    Men of Platinum gives fans a rare face-to-face with Dhoni

    MUMBAI: When admiration meets access, Men of Platinum scores a six. The brand has launched Moment With Mahi, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans to meet cricket legend MS Dhoni. Platinum Guild International (PGI) India’s men’s jewellery brand takes its partnership with the iconic captain a step further, blending fandom, platinum, and unforgettable experiences into a single campaign.

    Anchored in the MS Dhoni Signature Edition collection, launched last October, the initiative allows fans to own a piece of the legend while getting the chance to meet him in person. The campaign film opens with the roar of stadiums and young fans perfecting Dhoni’s helicopter shot on local grounds, weaving through murals, glowing high-rises, and match-winning moments on screens across the country. The narrative builds to an emotional climax: fans encountering their hero face-to-face.

    PGI-India consumer marketing director Sujala Martis said, “Fans don’t just follow idols, they live their stories. With the MS Dhoni Signature Edition and  Moment With Mahi, we’ve transformed admiration into access, offering a rare chance to meet the legend while celebrating the festive season.”

    Famous Innovation executive creative director Tenzin Wangdi added, “Dhoni represents the rare values Men of Platinum stands for: composure, courage, and inner strength. This campaign turns long-distance admiration into an intimate, unforgettable experience for fans.”

    The campaign debuts across digital platforms, television, print, outdoor, and retail points, ensuring Moment With Mahi becomes a cultural conversation online and offline. Crafted from 95 per cent pure platinum and etched with Dhoni’s signature, the collection not only celebrates cricketing excellence but also connects fans to the enduring legacy of a sporting icon.

    This festive season, Men of Platinum proves that true rarity lies not just in precious metal, but in moments that last a lifetime.

  • Trademark wicket falls as Dhoni clears “Captain Cool” legal hurdle

    Trademark wicket falls as Dhoni clears “Captain Cool” legal hurdle

    MUMBAI: From cool finishes to cool trademarks MS Dhoni just scored another off-field win. The former India skipper’s bid to own the phrase “Captain Cool” for entertainment and sports services has crossed a major legal milestone, with the Indian Trade Marks Registry greenlighting his application for publication.

    Filed under Class 41 for services spanning education, entertainment, cultural activities and sports training, the application originally submitted in June 2023 faced initial resistance from the Registry. The hurdle? A prior registration for Captain Cool under the same class by Prabha Skill Sports (OPC) Private Limited, which prompted a formal objection under Section 11(1) of the Trade Marks Act, 1999.

    But Dhoni’s legal team wasn’t bowled over. At a hearing conducted under Rule 115 of the Trade Marks Rules, Advocate Mansi Aggarwal of Vidhi Samhita Advocates argued that “Captain Cool” is inseparably tied to Dhoni’s identity virtually synonymous with his calm, composed demeanour on and off the cricket field.

    The Registry agreed. It held that the term, in Dhoni’s case, was unlikely to cause public confusion given its entrenched association with the cricketer. With that, the objection was waived and the mark was accepted for advertisement under Section 20(1) of the Act.

    The application was officially published in the Trade Marks Journal on June 16, 2025, setting off a four-month statutory opposition window. Any third party that believes Dhoni’s registration infringes their rights or could mislead the public has until mid-October to raise a formal objection.

    If no opposition is filed during this period, Dhoni will secure exclusive rights to use “Captain Cool” for services including sports coaching, entertainment shows, cultural events, and more, a fitting legal badge for a man who made calm look effortless under pressure.

    Whether it’s chasing trophies or trademarks, MS Dhoni continues to play the long game and win.

  • Fan-tastic four as Dhoni hype and debutant delight rule IPL 2025 pulse

    Fan-tastic four as Dhoni hype and debutant delight rule IPL 2025 pulse

    MUMBAI: Turns out the biggest impact player of IPL 2025 isn’t even an “impact player”, it’s Dhoni. A new report titled The IPL Pulse by 23 Watts Insights Studio has bowled over cricket buffs with fan-fuelled findings from over 5,000 respondents across 10 cities. From emerging icons to unexpected frontrunners, the survey captures the shifting allegiances, breakout stars, and strategic evolution of this year’s league proving once again that in India, cricket isn’t just watched, it’s felt.

    At 42, MS Dhoni may not be scoring big with the bat, but his grip on the nation’s heart remains unshaken. A whopping 73 per cent fans say he shouldn’t retire just yet, with 35.13 per cent calling him the “soul of CSK” and 37.77 per cent admitting he’s not in peak form, but still brings immense value. Only 27 per cent feel it’s time for Thala to trade the gloves for the dugout.

    While legends still shine, Gen Z has crowned its new prince. Rajasthan Royals’ teen dynamo Vaibhav Suryavanshi has emerged as the most impressive debutant with 31.4 per cent votes. Following close are Mumbai Indians’ Ashwani Kumar (21 per cent) and South African import Ryan Rickelton (15.8 per cent), whose flair with the bat has turned heads across formats.

    When it comes to bowling nightmares, Jasprit Bumrah (32.4 per cent) reigns supreme, followed by CSK’s crafty spinner Noor Ahmad (28.4 per cent). Fans, though, are clearly on the pace bandwagon 65.3 per cent believe fast bowlers are tougher to face than spinners this season.

    It’s the year of the underdog. According to the report, 65 per cent of fans are hoping for a first-time IPL winner. Royal Challengers Bangalore leads the fairytale charge with 44 per cent of the vote, ahead of Delhi Capitals (12 per cent), Punjab Kings (7 per cent) and Lucknow Super Giants (2 per cent). Mumbai Indians (13 per cent) and CSK (12 per cent) remain in the hunt, but fan hopes seem to favour fresh silverware.

    Love it or overhype it, the “Impact Player” rule has divided the pitch but not the people. An overwhelming 78 per cent agree it’s added a strategic edge to the game, while 20 per cent say it’s tough on true-blue all-rounders.

    Key takeaways from The IPL Pulse:

    . Thala for life: Only 1 in 4 fans want Dhoni to retire.

    . Debut delight: Suryavanshi and Kumar lead the rookie chart.

    .  Bowling heat: Bumrah is still the batter’s worst nightmare.

    .  Dark horse energy: RCB tops wishlist for a new IPL champion.

    .  Rule reimagined: “Impact player” earns mass approval.

    With 55 matches down and plenty more fireworks to come, The IPL Pulse proves one thing beyond doubt, the love for cricket is as layered and unpredictable as the tournament itself. And in this game, it’s not just the players making an impact, it’s the fans who write the script.

  • Men of Platinum’s Honourthe7 pays tribute to MS Dhoni’s enduring legacy

    Men of Platinum’s Honourthe7 pays tribute to MS Dhoni’s enduring legacy

    MUMBAI: As IPL 2025 sets the stage for another thrilling season, Men of Platinum unveils Honourthe7, a heartfelt tribute to cricketing legend MS Dhoni. This fan-powered campaign invites supporters to express their admiration for Dhoni in a unique and deeply personal way through a seven-word tribute.

    Building on the success of the Men of Platinum x Dhoni Signature Edition, the initiative transforms fan tributes into AI-generated video anthems, featuring the fan and their message an unforgettable digital keepsake to be shared across social media. The most compelling entries will win match tickets to select CSK games, offering a chance to witness Dhoni’s greatness live.

    With IPL fever at its peak, Men of Platinum is amplifying the campaign across digital, social, and print platforms, celebrating Dhoni’s management, resilience, and composure values that mirror the strength of platinum itself.

    To take the storytelling even further, the brand has partnered with Espn Cricinfo to launch an exclusive content series, Men of Platinum presents The Dhoni Legacy. Hosted by Raunaq Kapoor, the series features legendary cricketing voices including Anil Kumble, Tom Moody, Ambati Rayudu, Ian Bishop, and Sanjay Manjrekar who will share first-hand insights and personal anecdotes about Dhoni’s remarkable journey. Timed around key CSK match days, the series blends real-time match reflections with Dhoni’s defining moments, reinforcing his enduring legacy.

    In addition to the Honourthe7 campaign and The Dhoni Legacy series, Men of Platinum is rolling out fan-focused activations, including memes, superfan integrations, and digital tributes, creating an emotionally charged brand moment that resonates with CSK supporters.

    Platinum Guild International (PGI)-India consumer marketing director Sujala Martis shared, “The Dhoni Signature Edition is more than just a collection it’s a tribute to the values and legacy of a true icon. This IPL, as Dhoni takes the field once again, we are giving fans powerful new ways to express their admiration. Just like platinum, Dhoni’s legacy is rare and enduring and this campaign honours that spirit.”

    Famous Innovations group creative director Tenzin Wangdi added, “Honourthe7 is a collective tribute, written by those who have watched, cheered, and been inspired by a legend.”

    Wavemaker chief client officer Shekhar Banerjee stated, “We have transformed fan tributes into timeless digital legacies, ensuring Dhoni’s enduring influence and the Men of Platinum philosophy shine brighter than ever.” 

  • Snickers Peanut Brownie debuts in India as the ultimate hunger fix

    Snickers Peanut Brownie debuts in India as the ultimate hunger fix

    MUMBAI: Mars Wrigley India has introduced the all-new Snickers Peanut Brownie, an indulgent twist on its classic hunger-satisfying bar. Combining the rich, fudgy taste of a brownie with the signature Snickers blend of gooey caramel, crunchy peanuts, and smooth chocolate, this latest offering promises to elevate the hunger-fix experience for chocolate lovers across India.

    To mark the launch, Mars Wrigley India has unveiled a humorous new TVC, conceptualised by DDB Mudra, capturing the chaos that unfolds when hunger strikes. Known for its iconic advertising, Snickers India has previously featured celebrities like Rekha, Sonam Kapoor, MS Dhoni, and Rohit Shetty. This time, the brand takes a fresh approach, playfully illustrating how the Snickers Peanut Brownie steps in as the ultimate rescue snack.

    Set in a lively office environment, the TVC highlights the absurd lengths people go to when desperate for food, reinforcing the tagline Bhook mein kuch bhi mat kha. Kuch tasty kha. (Don’t eat just anything when you’re hungry. Eat something tasty.). The campaign takes the brand’s signature ‘You’re not you when you’re hungry’ messaging a step further by humorously depicting a hungry person transforming into an inanimate object a vacuum cleaner.

    Mars Wrigley India strategic demand manager Himanshu Gupta shared his excitement about the launch, stating, “Snickers has always been the og hunger satisfier, and with the Peanut Brownie, we’re elevating that experience to a whole new level. This launch is not just about delighting our loyal consumers but also inviting more chocolate lovers to join the Snickers family. By bringing a taste from our global pantry to India, we’re staying true to our promise of delivering the tastiest hunger fix. After all, ‘You’re not you when you’re hungry,’ and the Snickers Peanut Brownie ensures you stay yourself in the most delicious way possible.”

    DDB Tribal creative head Iraj Fraz commented on the unique storytelling approach, saying, “All through this project, making a vacuum cleaner play the main role has been both a challenge and a joy for us all.”

    With this exciting launch, Snickers continues to cement its position as the ultimate solution for hunger cravings, ensuring that no one has to resort to desperate snacking again.

  • Cleartrip’s new campaign books the right vibe with Dhoni and CarryMinati

    Cleartrip’s new campaign books the right vibe with Dhoni and CarryMinati

    MUMBAI: Not every hotel is a perfect match, just ask MS Dhoni and Carryminati, the unlikely duo starring in Cleartrip’s latest explore hotels by vibe campaign. The travel platform’s new ad cleverly plays on contrasting personalities, showing how the right vibe can make or break a trip.

    The film follows Youtube sensation Carryminati, known for his high-energy, unfiltered style, as he hilariously struggles to match Dhoni’s legendary composure in a setting that’s clearly not his scene. The message? Finding a stay that matches your mood is just as important as the destination itself.

    With the explore hotels by vibe feature, Cleartrip is shifting how travellers pick their stays. Instead of just focusing on location and amenities, the platform now curates hotels based on experience and mood—be it a peaceful retreat or an adrenaline-packed escape.

    “At Cleartrip, we believe the right vibe can transform a trip,” said Cleartrip chief marketing & revenue officer Tavleen Bhatia. “Some travellers chase high-energy adventures, while others seek a slow, relaxing getaway. MS Dhoni and Carryminati bring this contrast to life, proving that, no matter your travel style, there’s a perfect hotel waiting for you.”

    Cleartrip aims to tackle a major OTA (online travel agency) challenge simplifying hotel selection. By allowing travellers to choose stays based on mood, the platform makes travel planning effortless and personalised.

  • MS Dhoni and EMotorad take over Times Square with new campaign

    MS Dhoni and EMotorad take over Times Square with new campaign

    Mumbai: MS Dhoni takes Times Square by storm with EMotorad’s latest brand campaign, ‘Awaaz Ayegi Dil Se’. Cricket fans and mobility enthusiasts have been excited about this collaboration. The ad features MS Dhoni alongside EMotorad’s foldable, fat-tyred e-cycle Doodle V3, launching their latest campaign with immense impact.

    Together, As per the press release MS Dhoni and EMotorad create a historical moment that celebrates not only India’s cricketing icon but also the future of sustainable transportation, marking a milestone for electric mobility.

    “When we decided to do a billboard for Mahi Bhai, the first thought was that it had to be grand, and what better than a big screen on the iconic Times Square? As an Indian company exporting e-bikes across Europe and the US, it was an opportunity to display Indian startups on the biggest global advertising stage. Our philosophy in product and marketing, as well as most things we do, is to do crazy stuff and constantly break barriers.” said  EMotorad CMO and co-founder Aditya Oza.

    “The legendary MS Dhoni commands a presence as iconic as the Times Square Billboard itself, and having this stage is an incredible moment for EMotorad. Mahi being the innovator he is, needed something that had never been done before—something as monumental as his legacy. This is more than just an ad for us; it’s a symbol of our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and making a positive impact on the world.” —EMotorad VP marketing Neil Ghogale.

    As a leader in sustainable transportation, EMotorad’s campaign with MS Dhoni underscores its commitment to cutting-edge technology and cultural resonance. It solidifies its position as a trailblazer in e-mobility and inspires a new generation of cyclists and cricket fans.

  • EMotorad launches ‘Dil Se Aawaaz Ayegi’ campaign

    EMotorad launches ‘Dil Se Aawaaz Ayegi’ campaign

    Mumbai: EMotorad launched its brand new campaign, ‘Dil Se Aawaaz Ayegi’. The ad stars cricket legend Mahendra Singh Dhoni and showcases the brand’s best-selling foldable and fat-tyred e-cycle, Doodle V3.

    In the ad, MS Dhoni is seen in a garage surrounded by various bikes, imitating the unique sounds each one makes, like ‘vroom vroom’ and ‘vaun vaun’. The ad builds intrigue when Dhoni asks, “What sound will your cycle make?” To which an EMotorad representative responds, “Dil se aawaaz ayegi”, transitioning to a scene of Dhoni riding the e-cycle going ‘’weeeeeee’ ‘woooooooo’.

    The campaign resonated with nationwide audiences, garnering an overwhelming response for MS Dhoni and EMotorad’s second quirky collaboration.

    On the campaign, EMotorad co-founder and CMO Aditya Oza said, “Dil se Aawaz aayegi is more than just a tagline; we wanted to highlight what it feels like riding our bikes. And across everyone we spoke to after their first ride, their expression was a feeling of joy! With every campaign we create, we aim to instill the soul of the brand and express it through our content. Good advertising and great products have one thing in common: They evoke emotions, and that’s what our latest campaign is about. What’s even more remarkable is our partnership with MS Dhoni and doing all crazy things with us in such a sporty manner. We couldn’t be prouder to have the ultimate brand ambassador, who is not only an investor but also remains our Captain Cool forever.”

    Building on the success of their viral ‘Bole Jo Koyal’ campaign featuring MS Dhoni, EMotorad has released a follow-up that amplifies the same heartfelt emotion with the tagline ‘Dil se awaaz ayegi’.

  • Seven must-listen audiobooks & books to celebrate MSD’s seventh chakra of cricket domination!

    Seven must-listen audiobooks & books to celebrate MSD’s seventh chakra of cricket domination!

    Mumbai: Cricket fans have their own lucky number – seven! It is the jersey number forever etched in our memories – the number of Captain Cool, M.S. Dhoni, himself. More than a cricketing legend, M.S. Dhoni is an emotion that unites our nation. In high-pressure situations, he has not only embodied composure and delivered his best performances, but also emerged as a paragon of leadership. Two decades after his Indian cricket team debut, the roars of “Dhoni” and “Thala” still reverberate across stadiums—a testament to the loyalty of his legion of fans. On his birthday this year, celebrate his remarkable journey on and off the field with these seven must-listen and must-read recommendations!

    Do Different

    Platform: Audible

    Out-of-the-box thinking, ruthless pragmatism and an innate ability to understand, define and then redefine the game of cricket are probably the hallmarks of Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s cricket. From hitting countless sixes in his school ground in the sleepy town of Ranchi to finishing a run chase in a World Cup final against Sri Lanka, tune into this audiobook on Dhoni’s power-packed journey through the years. The audiobook features various perspectives on Dhoni’s journey, ranging from his original agent providing insights into the development of brand Dhoni, to an international fast bowler who played alongside MSD since his first-class days.

    The Dhoni Touch

    Platform: Audible

    Listen to this audiobook to discover the different shades of your beloved Thala. In the audiobook, Bharat Sundaresan delves into Dhoni’s life by tracing his closest friends in Ranchi. Through his skilful storytelling, he uncovers the various facets of Dhoni’s persona – the Ranchi boy, the military man, the diplomat, Chennai’s beloved Thala, and the wicketkeeping icon, thus, taking the listeners on a journey to discover the ‘Dhoni touch.’

    The M.S. Dhoni Way: Leadership Masterclass from the Master of the Craft – Pearls of Wisdom

    Platform: Audible

    In this podcast, gain insights into the leadership strategies of the cricketing legend, MSD, as it spotlights his approach to team leadership, strategic manoeuvres, tactical play, and overall perspective on the game. The podcast delves deeper into his sportsman spirit by highlighting his analytical skills, how he harnesses all kinds of players, his attitude towards the game, his blueprint of building a successful team and excerpts from some select post-match presentation interviews.

    Believe

    Platform: Audible

    A chapter in the audiobook Believe delves deep into the camaraderie and bond between Suresh Raina and MS Dhoni, highlighting their journey together on and off the field. Raina recollects meeting Dhoni for the first time during the Dilip Trophy match in Gwalior in February 2005. Sharing rooms and discussing everything under the sun, their close friendship and bond remain intact over time. Tune in to know how Dhoni provided immense support to Raina during his formative years of cricket.

    MSD: The Man, The Leader

    Platform: Audible

    M.S. Dhoni’s journey from a small-town boy to World Cup-winning captain is an inspirational story that is going to be passed down through generations. This book goes beyond the glory and affection he received as a captain and player, exploring Dhoni’s struggles, leadership, and the legacy he has built for himself, bringing hope to aspiring cricketers. Through interviews and real-life stories, the book reveals the man behind the legend, showing anyone can achieve greatness with hard work and self-belief.

    M S Dhoni: Captain Cool

    Platform: Amazon

    Who could have predicted that a young goalkeeper from a small Indian town would rise to become the legendary captain of the national cricket team? This book captures the journey of M.S. Dhoni, chronicling his transformation from humble beginnings to cricketing stardom. It vividly portrays his fearless leadership, bold decisions, and exceptional batting skills, illustrating why he is celebrated as one of the finest players in the last few decades and how he rekindled the nation’s passion for Indian cricket!

    Think and Win like Dhoni

    Platform: Amazon

    ‘Think and Win Like Dhoni’ is a book that goes beyond cricket. It offers insights from Indian captain M.S. Dhoni on staying calm, seizing opportunities, and leading effectively. If you wish to discover the secrets behind Dhoni’s luck and resilience and learn how to get ahead using the same strategies that have made him a legendary figure and youth icon, then this book is the perfect find for you.