Tag: Tata Group

Tejas powers up Powertel’s network speed

MUMBAI: Powertel, the telecom arm of Power Grid Corporation of India, has tapped Tejas Networks to supercharge its pan-India DWDM network with a lightning-fast 400Gb per second upgrade. The project marks another major milestone for the Bengaluru-based tech player, which will design, supply, install, and integrate a next-generation SDN-based DWDM system across new and existing sites.

Tejas will roll out its flagship multi-terabit TJ1600 DWDM/OTN platform, capable of delivering up to a staggering 1.2Tb per second per wavelength while supporting the cutting-edge alien wavelength technology, a feature that allows seamless data transmission over third-party systems.

Tejas Networks chief operating officer and executive director Arnob Roy said, “We are delighted to extend our partnership with Powertel to expand their backbone capacity and meet the surging demand for high-speed connectivity from data centres, telcos, government and enterprises. Our alien wavelength solution provides a cost-efficient way to scale bandwidth while ensuring diversity and speed to market.”

A part of the Tata Group, Tejas Networks designs and manufactures high-performance networking products for telecom, defence, utilities, and government clients in over 75 countries. With this upgrade, Powertel’s network is set to handle India’s growing data surge with more power, precision and, quite literally, a better connection.

October 27, 2025
Animeta rolls camera on AI Film Studio to redefine storytelling in digital age

MUMBAI: Lights, camera, algorithm. Animeta, the Singapore-based creator tech company, has launched its brand-new vertical, Animeta AI Film Studio, in Mumbai, promising to shake up the way stories are told on screen.

Billed as a first-of-its-kind hybrid studio, the venture combines human creativity with cutting-edge AI tools to deliver everything from slick promotional clips to full-length films. The aim is to help filmmakers, brands and creators merge original scripts, music and voiceovers with AI-driven visuals that preserve artistic intent while speeding up production.

The studio is powered by Animeta’s patent-pending AI model and bolstered by its participation in Google Cloud’s startup programme, giving it access to Vertex AI’s veo3 video generation model along with copyright indemnity on content created through the platform.

“For two decades, I have reimagined storytelling through animation. Now our AI Film Studio is here to push those boundaries further,” said Animeta founder Anish Mehta. “By blending creativity with AI, we are empowering storytellers to scale their vision faster, smarter and with greater confidence.”

The new division builds on Animeta’s strengths in computer vision, natural language processing, video encoding and large language models. It also draws from the company’s experience producing award-winning influencer-led content for global names like Amazon, Starbucks, L’oréal, Tata Group and Mcdonald’s, powered by its tech platform Animeta Brandstar and a creator network of more than 400,000.

With this launch, Animeta hopes to give creators a futuristic canvas where imagination meets innovation, ensuring that storytelling not only keeps pace with the digital era but stays one step ahead.

Because in today’s content-hungry world, the future of film might just be part human, part machine, and all story.

September 23, 2025
Adani tops growth charts with 82 per cent brand value surge

MUMBAI: The Adani Group has gone from strength to superbrand, topping the growth charts with a jaw-dropping 82 per cent spike in brand valuation — the highest among India’s top 100 brands in 2025, according to Brand Finance’s annual rankings.

Brand Adani’s value has surged from $3.55 billion in 2024 to $6.46 billion (Rs 55,000 crore) this year, marking an increase larger than its entire 2023 valuation. That’s not just growth — that’s compounding on steroids.

The jump has propelled Adani three notches up the rankings, landing it at No. 13 on the coveted list, up from 16 last year. The report attributes this leap to the Group’s strategic clarity, resilience in the face of global volatility, and commitment to sustainable growth — a rare trifecta in today’s corporate climate.

Meanwhile, Tata Group cemented its throne as India’s most valuable brand, becoming the first Indian brand ever to breach the $30 billion mark. It continues to lead the pack on sustainability perception value, while Infosys tops the charts in positive gap value – a measure of consumer trust outperforming expectations.

Luxury hotel chain Taj held onto its title as India’s strongest brand with a AAA+ rating and a brand strength index (BSI) score of 92.2/100.

Food delivery major Zomato also made its debut in the top 50, riding on strong brand equity among urban consumers.

The 2025 edition of the Brand Finance India 100 saw double-digit growth across the top 10 brands, including Infosys, LIC, Hdfc and Reliance, indicating that India’s brandscape is not just expanding – it’s accelerating.

In a year where perception met performance, Adani’s sharp rise signals that brand value in India is increasingly built on scale, strategy, and sustainable swagger.

Speaking on the same, Brand Finance’s MD Asia Pacific, Alex Haigh said, “Adani emerged as the fastest-growing Indian brand in 2025. In our assessment, brand Adani’s rise is underpinned by its strong financial performance coupled with high brand equity scores. It is a clear reflection of their investment in integrated infrastructure and the renewables sector.”

June 30, 2025
Brand new day as Epic Brand Map goes global with India as launchpad

MUMBAI: What’s in a brand? Quite a lot, if you ask the folks at the newly minted Epic Brand Institute. The Epic Brand Institute (EBI) has officially stepped onto the global stage with the public launch of its flagship framework the Epic Brand Map (EBM), a system designed to bring Evocativeness, Precision, Insight and Clarity (yes, that’s EPIC) to the chaotic world of brand-building.

Already battle-tested by corporate heavyweights like the Tata Group, Aditya Birla Group, Reliance, Mahindra, HCL, and international giants like Coca-cola, Medtronic, Sun Life Financial, Mars, Walmart and Nokia, the framework is finally being made available to the wider world of founders, marketers, consultants and creatives.

Created by global brand strategist Saurabh Uboweja, also the founder of BOD Consulting, the EBM will now form the core of EBI’s in-person training cohorts. The first will be hosted in New Delhi from 9–11 June 2025 at the India Habitat Centre, and a second will follow in Dubai from 19–21 September 2025.

“We’re launching not just a course, but a global movement,” said Uboweja. “After years of working behind the scenes with some of the biggest names in business, we’re now opening the EPIC Brand Map to a new generation of brand-led business builders.”

The inaugural Delhi edition will be an intimate affair, limited to 30 handpicked founders and practitioners looking to sharpen their brand-building acumen. Dubai, meanwhile, is set to attract a mix of Middle East and South Asian brand professionals hoping to join the ranks of EPIC strategists.

With storytelling getting louder, attention spans shrinking, and differentiation harder than ever, EBI’s pitch is simple stop winging it and start mapping it. The message is clear: if your brand strategy feels like a game of darts in the dark, it might be time to go EPIC.

June 9, 2025
Sponsorships yielding better results during IPL – CrispInsight’s eDART-IPL24 study

MUMBAI: A new research report has revealed that throwing cash at just traditional TV spots during the IPL might not be the most effective way to go if an advertiser wants to hop onto this high impact property.

The eye-opening study from CrispInsight’s eDART-IPL24, in partnership with Kadence International, suggests brands would be better off plumping for sponsorships and stadium branding rather than just splurging on conventional commercials alone without any connect with what’s going on in the game or or in the studio.

“Sponsorships and strategic brand placements are proving to be just as powerful, if not more, than traditional advertising in high-impact events like IPL,” declared CrispInsight founder Ritesh Ghosal, who’s clearly not one to mince words.

Despite over 100 brands scrapping for eyeballs during last year’s tournament, only a handful – Jio, Tata Group, Slice, BKT, and Paytm – aced it with top-of-mind recall. The kicker? None relied on just traditional telly commercials to make their mark.

The report exposed a gaping disconnect between GRP (gross rating points) spend and actual brand recall. While Dream11 led the pack with a 37.7 per cent recall from 1,730 GRPs, some big spenders found themselves caught behind – gutka brand Vimal splashed out on 3,016 GRPs but limped home with a measly 2.4 per cent recall.

“IPL is one of the most competitive advertising platforms,” noted Aman Makkar of Kadence International. “Standing out requires more than just high ad spends.”

With IPL ad rates now requiring the GDP of a small nation, savvy marketers are discovering that non-FCT strategies – team sponsorships, on-screen placements, and stadium branding – keep brands in the spotlight long after the commercials fade to black.

As the 2025 season looms large, the message is crystal clear: it’s not about how much money you throw at the IPL – it’s about where you pitch it.

March 13, 2025
Tejas Networks appoints Sanjay Malik as executive vice-president and chief strategy & business officer

MUMBAI: Tata group optical, broadband and data networking products company Tejas Networks has announced the appointment of Sanjay Malik as executive vice-president, chief strategy & business officer, and senior managerial personnel, effective 30 January 2025. His tenure will continue until his resignation or retirement, as per the company’s internal human resource policy.

Sanjay Malik, a respected business leader in the ICT sector, brings extensive global experience and a proven track record in driving growth and transformative initiatives. Known for his integrity, ethics, and action-oriented leadership style, he has delivered exceptional results in challenging business environments. Malik will work closely with managing director Anand Athreya and the senior leadership team to shape corporate strategy, oversee business management, and engage with stakeholders.

During his tenure as senior vice-president and India country head at Nokia Networks, Malik transformed the company into an undisputed market leader within three years, achieving record revenues. He successfully grew Nokia’s market share across wireless and wireline portfolios by focusing on cross-portfolio solutions and new customer acquisition.

Malik’s career spans roles at Cap Gemini, HP, and Tata Unisys. An alumnus of the National Institute of Technology, Kurukshetra, he also holds a postgraduate degree in business management from the Indian Institute of Management, Mumbai.

The appointment, approved by the board of directors based on the nomination and remuneration committee’s recommendations, aligns with Tejas Networks’ strategic goals.

January 26, 2025
IPL’s business value will only rise: investment bank Houlihan Lokey, Brand Finance

MUMBAI: The numbers are eye-popping. And they should please the calculators at JioStar, the newly created joint venture between Disney Star and Reliance’s Viacom18 just as its sales folks go into the market to raise sponsorship and free commercial time advertisers for its 2025 season.

Brand Finance in its 17th IPL valuation report said that the IPL’s cumulative brand value rose 13 per cent to $12 billion. The league was valued at $2 billion in 2009, $10.7 billion in 2023, according to Brand Finance.

Chennai Super Kings registered a brand value at $122 million growing a healthy 52 per cent, Mumbai Indians grew 36 per cent at $119 million, RCB increased 67 per cent with a brand value of $117 million, KKR rose 38 per cent to be valued at $109 million, Sunrisers Hyderabad climbed 76 per cent to touch $85 million, Rajasthan Royals had a 30 per cent increase ($81 million), Delhi Capitals, 24 per cent to touch $80 million, Gujarat Titans showed a five per cent growth to generate a brand value of $69 million while Punjab Kings racked up a 49 per cent rise to be valued at $68 million.

“IPL 2024 witnessed a significant paradigm shift, with four franchise brands now surpassing the $100 million mark in brand value and experiencing dramatic increases in central revenue shares. Digital viewership has overtaken traditional TV numbers, while domestic batters and bowlers are emerging as key performers. Does this mark a dramatic turn for the IPL, signalling a positive transformation for the league’s future?” said Brand Finance India managing director Ajimon Francis.

Meanwhile, global investment bank Houlihan Lokey which released its IPL brand valuation study in June 2024 had valued the swashbuckling league as a business at $16.5 billion (Rs 134,858 crore).

According to Houlihan Lokey corporate senior vice-president corporate valuation advisory services Harsh Talikoti who penned the report, the IPL in 2024 showed a growth of 6.5 per cent over the 2023 season’s business value which was at $15.4 billion. The business value of the league was pegged at just $8.5 billion in 2022 by the advisory firm.

Houlihan Lokey used the discounted cash flow method to reach at these valuation numbers.

In 2024, the IPL has transcended traditional sports norm to become a global phenomenon, it says.

The brand value of the IPL has also soared from $1.8 billon in 2022 to $3.2 billion in 2023 to $3.4 billion in 2024 – a growth of 6.3 per cent. The valuation was determined using the relief from royalty method.

Houlihan Lokey estimated the title sponsorship of the league cost the Tata group Rs 2,500 crore for a five-year period (approx. Rs 500 crore per season) which was a growth of approximately 50 per cent than the previous season’s deal of Rs 335 crore per season.

The TV commercial ad rates have gone northwards from Rs 14.5 lakh in 2022 to Rs 16 lakh in 2023 to Rs 16.5 lakh in 2024, according to the report.

Chennai Super Kings is the most valued amongst all the teams with a $ 231 million brand value. “CSK is the most consistent team in the league. Not only have they qualified in the playoffs for a staggering 12 out of 15 seasons they have played in, they have also won five titles. Former CSK captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni has been the face of the franchisee and the biggest contributor to the franchisee’s success,” says the report.

The second most valued team is Royal Challengers Bengaluru with a valuation of $227 million. “The team’s emotional connection with fans, coupled with consistent efforts to fortify its brand, has cemented its enduring appeal, attracting marquee sponsors at premium rates,” revealed the report.

Kolkata Knight Riders ranks third with a brand value of $216 million. Mumbai Indians comes in fourth with its brand valuation at $204 million. According to Houlihan Lokey, “MI’s brand value was impacted slightly due to the negativity surrounding the team after a change in captaincy and its on-field performances; however, the long-term goodwill associated with the brand helped to negate the impact.”

Rajasthan Royals came in fifth with its value at $133 million. Sunrisers Hyderabad is at sixth with its brand value at $132 million. Delhi Capitals is at seventh with its brand value at $131 million. Gujarat Titans and Punjab Kings made the tail end of the rankings with their valuations at $124 and $101 million respectively.

Houlihan Lokey believes that the IPL has some way to go to achieve its potential.

“Though these stats may look slightly lower than other established leagues, it is important to note that the IPL commenced just over 15 years ago, while the EPL has been standing ground for over 25 years and the NFL for over 40. It is only natural for one to expect a growth in this tournament in terms of size and volume. The IPL has proven its current value and is sure to become the next big thing in the sports world,” predicts the report.

You can download the full report by clicking on the link: Houlihan Lokey: IPL Valuation Study 2024

You can access the BrandFinance data by clicking here: Brand Finance IPL valuation study

(Picture courtesy: IPL)

December 4, 2024
Tanishq & De Beers collab to boost India’s diamond jewellery market

Mumbai: De Beers Group, a global diamond company, and Tanishq, an Indian jewellery retail brand from the Tata group, has announced a long-term collaboration to connect more Indian consumers with the rarity and preciousness of natural diamonds and amplify the growing opportunity in the Indian market.

With a vibrant economy, a growing middle class and discerning consumers who seek jewellery with enduring value, demand for natural diamond jewellery from Indian consumers has surged recently and now represents 11 per cent of global demand. This has seen India replace China as the second largest market in the world for natural diamond jewellery. With diamond acquisition rates in India well below those in mature markets such as the US, this provides a significant opportunity to catalyse further growth for natural diamond jewellery in India.

To help unlock the growth opportunity, Tanishq and De Beers have agreed to come together on a long-term collaboration to enhance consumer education, interest and confidence, and to promote natural diamonds across India. Through this collaboration, the two parties will capitalise on Tanishq’s deep understanding of the Indian market built up over three decades, combined with De Beers’ expertise in the diamond category, to deepen consumer desire for and confidence in natural diamonds, underscoring their inherent value, rarity and timelessness.

The collaboration will focus on building extensive consumer outreach, deepening capabilities of Tanishq’s retail staff to communicate about natural diamonds, educating consumers about authenticity, and shaping customer experiences as they explore their desire for natural diamonds and studded jewellery. This will also be supported by a compelling 360-degree marketing campaign to build awareness and target expanding the customer base in the country, including first time buyers.

The new collaboration builds on the existing relationship between Tanishq and De Beers, with Tanishq already using De Beers’ proprietary diamond verification technology to support the assurance of the authenticity of its products. The two parties are also in talks regarding opportunities to collaborate on traceability, how Tanishq’s diamond supply needs can best be met and further opportunities to use De Beers’ proprietary technologies to support pipeline integrity.

De Beers Brands CEO Sandrine Conseiller said, “India’s love affair with diamonds has flourished over thousands of years, and we are thrilled to partner with Tanishq to unlock the full potential of this vibrant market. Like De Beers, Tanishq recognises the power, preciousness and prestige of natural diamonds and combining our expertise with their deep understanding of the Indian market, we will work together to create something special to connect more Indian consumers to these natural treasures and their enduring value.”

Titan Company Ltd’s CEO, jewellery division, Ajoy Chawla said, “The opportunity in India for diamonds iS massive, given the very low penetration of studded jewellery and the rising per capita incomes in the world’s most populous country. Tanishq has been a pioneer in democratising diamond jewellery in the market for three decades and has always targeted the modern progressive woman. Tanishq Diamonds adhere to strictest standards, with all diamonds responsibly sourced in compliance with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) and the Tanishq Suppliers Engagement Protoco (TSEP).

“We offer our own certificate of Tanishq Diamond guarantee and have the most transparent buyback policy in India, enabling trust and peace of mind for our customers In an increasingly man-made world where virtual living is becoming the norm, people crave authentic brands, real experiences and value natural, wholesome products. All Tanishq Diamonds are natural, rare and valuable and have attracted our customers with innovative designs. The collaboration with De Beers will unlock new opportunity for both Tanishq and the diamond sector, celebrating the eternal beauty of these miracles of nature.”

August 28, 2024
Tanishq shines at Paris Haute Couture Week’24 with ‘Enchanted Trails’ collection

Mumbai: Tanishq jewellery brand from the esteemed Tata group enchanted global fashion enthusiasts as it launched it’s Enchanted Trails’ collection at the Paris Haute Couture Week 2024. Often heralded as the mecca of fashion, Paris Haute Couture Week provided the perfect global platform to introduce its ‘Enchanted Trails’ collection. Each piece in the collection is a work of art, featuring rare and real diamond creations that redefine glamour and style.

The collection draws inspiration from the intricate beauty of exotic nature, incorporating elements that reflect the elegance of flowing rivers, the interplay of light and water, the allure of blooming flowers, the graceful movement of branches, and the whispers of lush forest foliage. The collection showcases the dance of boats gliding through serene streams, echoing the poetry of nature’s tranquillity.

This year, Tanishq collaborated with designer Vaishali Shadangule, the first Indian woman to debut at Paris Haute Couture Week in 2021. Tanishq’s ethos perfectly matches Vaishali’s vision, as she embodies the Tanishq woman—progressive, contemporary, and dedicated to promoting Indian craftsmanship and artistry on the world stage.

Speaking on this momentous collaboration Titan Company Ltd chief Design Officer Revathi Kant expressed, “The Enchanted Trails Collection is a celebration of exceptional artistry and refined taste. It is a tribute to nature’s magnificence, weaving together designs that reflect the harmony and balance found in the natural world. Inspired by the twists and twirls of branches, the ebbs and flows of rivulets and natural streams, the enchanting colours of flowers, and the immersive greenery of foliage, the collection captures the very essence of nature.

Paris Haute Couture Week epitomizes the pinnacle of fashion innovation and luxury, providing an unparalleled platform to showcase our dedication to craftsmanship and artistry. Our partnership with Vaishali Shadangule signifies a harmonious blend of craftsmanship and contemporary design, as her unique approach complements the intricate, nature-inspired themes of our diamond collection. Her ability to integrate traditional techniques with modern aesthetics makes her the ideal collaborator to highlight the essence of our exquisite pieces, allowing us to redefine luxury on a global scale.”

Vaishali Shadangule, acclaimed fashion designer added “I am thrilled about this collaboration. Jewellery is an extension of Couture and partnering with Tanishq that is so particular and skilled.

about heritage workmanship with global luxury, quality is just a mutual enhancement of our philosophy. Also, the Tanishq “Enchanted Trails” collection further empowers our two concepts of Nature and luxury.”

Returning to the heart of the global fashion capital, Paris, Tanishq’s latest collection signified more than just jewellery; it represented years of perfected craftsmanship and innovative design. Each piece was meticulously crafted to reflect timeless beauty and allure, making it a perfect addition to any fashion-forward wardrobe.

June 25, 2024
Stryder Bikes achieves milestone of 50 lakh bicycles

Mumbai: Stryder Bikes, part of the esteemed Tata Group, and a pioneer in providing sustainable mobility solutions, has surpassed a global sales milestone of over 50 lakhs during May 2024. This achievement underscores the brand’s commitment in delivering innovative, eco-friendly mobility solutions to customers in India & overseas. Since its inception in 2012, Stryder has grown its presence to over 4000 retail outlets across India and expanded its export operations to SAARC, Africa, and Middle Eastern countries.

“To celebrate this milestone, Stryder launches two new e-bike models– Zeeta and Zeeta Plus 700C on World Bicycle Day. These e-bikes will be offered at an introductory discount of up to 20% to all customers with an aim to promote sustainable living in a world that is being challenged by rapid climate change. Our commitment to customer centricity and innovation has been the driving force behind our journey to this remarkable achievement. We have seen robust demand coming from urban, rural centers and global markets,” said Stryder Cycles business head Rahul Gupta.

The new models, Zeeta and Zeeta Plus 700C are designed with cutting-edge technology and superior performance to meet the growing demand for sustainable commuting. To make sustainable commuting more accessible, Stryder is offering introductory discounts on both models. Zeeta is priced at Rs. 24,995, and Zeeta Plus 700C at Rs. 27,795, for a limited period.

Zeeta, targeting adventure-seeking individuals offers a range of up to 25 km, while Zeeta Plus 700C, catering to young professionals, boasts a range of up to 30 km. Both models feature dual disc brakes, key-enabled power buttons, with extremely frugal running cost of seven paise per kilometer.

To avail this limited-period offer, and experience the world of Stryder visit www.stryderbikes.com.

June 3, 2024