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Tag: Varun Sharma

  • JSW MG, Cheil X shift gears with witty ‘EV Sahi Hai’ films

    JSW MG, Cheil X shift gears with witty ‘EV Sahi Hai’ films

    MUMBAI: JSW MG and Cheil X are back with a laughter-fuelled second phase of their ‘EV sahi hai’ campaign, this time plugging into the star power of Varun Sharma and Pulkit Samrat of Fukrey fame.

    Shot against the scenic backdrops of Dehradun and Rishikesh, the new films tackle two of India’s biggest EV myths: the lack of charging stations and dreaded range anxiety, all with the duo’s signature banter and tongue-in-cheek charm.

    The first film plays out like a cheeky guessing game about India’s quirky town names, cleverly tying them back to the country’s 29,000 plus charging stations. The message? No matter how offbeat the location, you’re never too far from a plug point.

    The second film flips the focus to road trips, with Pulkit confidently cruising in his EV while Varun plays the sceptic, questioning whether it can survive the long haul to Goa. By the end, humour disarms doubt, leaving viewers with one simple conclusion: EV Sahi Hai.

    “Humour is at the heart of this phase, because what better way to bust myths than with a laugh?” said JSW MG Motor India, head of marketing, Udit Malhotra adding that celebrity voices would help the campaign reach “people from all walks of life.”

    Cheil X, national creative director, Amit Nandwani called it a conscious attempt to move beyond “just presenting facts” and instead “debunk myths in a fun and engaging manner”.

    Meanwhile, Cheil X Delhi, vice president and head of operations, Kanika, said the duo’s infectious energy makes them the “perfect pair to keep the message light yet impactful.”

  • Jetsynthesys’ Metaphy Labs launches WardenAI with Spanish PM’s support

    Jetsynthesys’ Metaphy Labs launches WardenAI with Spanish PM’s support

    Mumbai: Metaphy Labs, a subsidiary of Jetsynthesys, has officially launched its cutting-edge AI solution, WardenAI, at the Indo-Spanish Dialogue in Mumbai, witnessed by Spanish prime minister Pedro Sánchez. This event marks a significant leap in leveraging AI for societal benefit and positions WardenAI as a powerful tool to combat global challenges like misinformation and false news.

    Metaphy Labs’ strategic collaborations in Spain have fueled this groundbreaking development. The company has secured Letters of Intent (LOIs) and initiated early partnerships with leading organisations, including the PRISA Group, starting with platforms such as Huffington Post, CadenaSER, and the Heretics Group, as well as the University of Navarra. These partnerships underscore the recognition of WardenAI’s potential to foster accountability, drive innovation, and bolster AI-powered growth.

    WardenAI is engineered to tackle emerging digital threats, serving as a comprehensive AI safety and trust platform that protects stakeholders across devices and channels in real-time. It reinforces the ‘Right to correct information’ by providing reliable access to verified data.

    At the launch, Metaphy Labs and WardenAI co-founder, Varun Sharma shared an impactful demonstration involving Burkina Faso. Reports of misinformation related to ‘guerrilla donations’ claimed that foreign funds were fueling propaganda and causing social unrest. Utilizing WardenAI’s capabilities to process data from over 200,000 sources swiftly, Metaphy’s team identified the origins of the disinformation within 72 hours, uncovering a coordinated network and flagging over 5,000 suspicious narratives.

    Jetsynthesys founder & CEO, Rajan Navani highlighted the innovation: “Metaphy has been doing pioneering work in AI. With the launch of WardenAI, we have once again broken new ground in the way AI can be harnessed and applied to solve societal problems. Fake news and misinformation is a global issue and WardenAI demonstrates how it can be tackled and its adverse impact mitigated with technology.”

    Metaphy Labs, co-founders, Sharma and Rakesh Sreedhar elaborated on the urgency: “Recent studies estimate that false news spreads 70 per cent faster than the truth online. The financial and social costs of fake news are staggering – it is estimated to cost the global economy $78 billion every year, while its impacts undermine social cohesion and trust in public institutions. We believe that WardenAI is poised to redefine the way AI supports and empowers societies and we are thrilled to see this vision align with the broader Spain-India collaboration and the shared support from Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez.”

    Prime minister Sánchez’s endorsement emphasises Spain’s dedication to responsible AI and the shared vision for a resilient AI ecosystem. This collaboration exemplifies joint efforts between Spain and India to advance transparent and ethical AI practices.

  • Versuni India launches dual-basket Air Fryer 3000 series with Varun Sharma

    Versuni India launches dual-basket Air Fryer 3000 series with Varun Sharma

    Mumbai: Versuni India has launched its latest kitchen innovation, the Dual-Basket Air Fryer 3000 Series in collaboration with actor and comedian Varun Sharma. The partnership aims to make cooking more accessible and enjoyable, showcasing the air fryer’s versatility and ease of use through a playful and relatable video featuring Varun Sharma.

    In the video, Varun brings his signature humour and energy, sharing how the Dual-Basket Air Fryer has made cooking simpler for him. Known for his witty charm, Varun recounts his journey from rarely stepping into the kitchen to now enjoying the convenience and fun of preparing meals with the air fryer. As a self-proclaimed kitchen novice, Varun humorously shows how the air fryer’s dual-basket feature allows him to cook multiple dishes at once, making even the busiest schedules manageable.

     

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by Varun Sharma (@fukravarun)

    Commenting on the collaboration, Versuni India Home Solutions Ltd’s chief marketing officer, Pooja Baid said, “We are thrilled to partner with Varun Sharma for a fun and versatile product like our Dual-Basket Air Fryer. His relatable charm and humour perfectly capture the essence of our brand, showcasing the ease and versatility this product brings to the kitchen. At Versuni India, we aim to simplify everyday cooking, and Varun’s authentic approach makes it clear that even the busiest individual and least experienced cooks can create effortless, healthy meals that taste just like mom’s homemade food. We’re confident this video will inspire more people to enjoy the convenience and joy of cooking with our latest innovation—and we’re sure consumers will love it as much as we enjoyed making it.”

    In the video, Varun highlights the air fryer’s dual-basket design, which allows users to cook different meals or larger portions simultaneously. He demonstrates how the synchronised cooking feature ensures that dishes with varying cook times finish together, saving both time and effort. With 8 preset settings and Philips’ RapidAir Plus Technology, the air fryer guarantees perfectly cooked meals, making the kitchen a place of fun and convenience.

    Philips first introduced air fryers to India in 2010, consistently leading with innovative cooking solutions. The Dual-Basket Air Fryer 3000 Series continues this tradition, offering a 9-litre capacity across two asymmetrical baskets, making it ideal for family meals. Its features include the TIME function, eight preset modes for popular dishes, and connectivity to the HomeID app for quick recipes, making it an ultimate tool for healthy, convenient cooking.

  • Metaverse: E-commerce’s potential game-changer or just another hype?

    Metaverse: E-commerce’s potential game-changer or just another hype?

    Mumbai: Metaverse and AI; these are not just buzzwords that everyone uses nowadays, but are the cornerstones of our digital future. With the burgeoning advancements in technology, these innovations are rapidly reshaping the way we interact with the world around us.

    From immersive gaming experiences in virtual reality to augmented reality enhancing our daily lives, and from e-commerce platforms leveraging AI to personalise online shopping to virtual storefronts in the metaverse, the convergence of these technologies is creating a dynamic landscape of possibilities, transforming industries and redefining how we connect, work, and play.

    To gain deeper insights on the potential impact of the metaverse on the future of online shopping, Indian Television has gathered perspectives from various industries ranging from e-commerce business solution providers to brands, retail, manufacturing, and ad agencies.

    Some of the industry experts have also shared their thoughts on how they are exploring opportunities to integrate cutting-edge technologies into their e-commerce solutions.

    Vserve founder & CEO Siva Balakrishnan:

    The concept of the Metaverse, a virtual reality space where users can interact with a computer-generated environment and other users, has been gaining traction in recent years. As technology continues to advance, the potential impact of the Metaverse on the future of online shopping is significant and transformative.

    One of the most significant ways the Metaverse could revolutionise online shopping is through immersive shopping experiences. Imagine stepping into a virtual store where you can browse shelves, touch and feel products, and even try them on using augmented reality technology. This level of immersion not only enhances the shopping experience but also addresses some of the limitations of traditional e-commerce, such as the inability to physically interact with products before making a purchase. Additionally, the Metaverse could enable social shopping experiences, allowing users to shop together with friends or connect with other shoppers who share similar interests. This social aspect of online shopping can enhance engagement and make the experience more enjoyable and interactive.

    Furthermore, the Metaverse has the potential to blur the lines between physical and digital retail spaces, creating seamless omnichannel shopping experiences. For example, users could visit virtual versions of their favorite brick-and-mortar stores or attend virtual events like fashion shows or product launches, all from the comfort of their own homes. The Metaverse represents a paradigm shift in the way we shop online, offering new opportunities for retailers to engage with customers and create unique and immersive shopping experiences. As technology continues to evolve, the potential impact of the Metaverse on the future of online shopping is vast, and businesses that embrace this trend early on stand to gain a competitive advantage in the ever-changing retail landscape.

    In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, staying ahead of the curve is essential for e-commerce businesses looking to remain competitive. As such, we are constantly exploring opportunities to integrate cutting-edge technologies into our e-commerce solutions to enhance user experiences, streamline operations, and drive growth. One area of focus is artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), which offer tremendous potential for improving personalization, recommendation engines, and customer service. By leveraging AI and ML algorithms, we can analyze vast amounts of data to better understand customer behavior, predict trends, and tailor product offerings to individual preferences.

    Additionally, we are investing in augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies to revolutionize the online shopping experience. Through immersive AR and VR experiences, customers can visualize products in real-world environments, try before they buy, and make more informed purchasing decisions.

    Furthermore, we recognise the importance of blockchain technology in enhancing transparency, security, and trust in e-commerce transactions. By implementing blockchain-based solutions, we can ensure the integrity of supply chains, authenticate product origins, and protect sensitive customer data. Moreover, we are exploring the potential of Internet of Things (IoT) devices to create seamless omnichannel experiences and optimize inventory management processes. By connecting smart devices, such as wearable gadgets and smart home appliances, to our e-commerce platform, we can deliver personalized promotions, monitor product usage, and automate reordering processes.

    In conclusion, integrating cutting-edge technologies into our e-commerce solutions is not just about keeping up with the latest trends; it’s about anticipating future needs and exceeding customer expectations. By embracing innovation and harnessing the power of emerging technologies, we are positioning ourselves for long-term success in the dynamic e-commerce industry.

    JetSynthesys’ Metaphy Labs COO and co-founder Varun Sharma:

    The future of shopping is – interactive, immersive, and social. Think about walking through a virtual version of your favorite store, where you can see, touch, and even try products in a digital space. The metaverse is poised to transform online shopping by merging the ease of e-commerce with the tactile experience of physical stores. This will create a dynamic, immersive shopping journey where personalized recommendations and virtual assistants enhance your experience, making shopping not just a task but a delightful experience.

    The metaverse isn’t just shopping, it’s a playground. A complete future where shopping is not just a transaction but an experience.

    Doodhvale co-founder and CEO Aman Jain:

    The potential of the metaverse is limitless as it brings the online shopping experience to the next level by creating a 3D, immersive virtual world where customers can comfortably shop, use various products, and even ‘try on’ products through augmented reality. This degree of immersion can have a substantial effect on the customers’ experience of shopping online as they can transition to inventing between digital and physical retail.

    Rosemoore director operations Ridhima Kansal:

    Together with the development of the metaverse, we could soon have virtual marketplaces where clients would not only shop or entertain themselves, but also communicate with each other, visit events, or ask for professional consultation. This participation in socials will instill in consumers a sense of community and loyalty thus adding to the social part of internet shopping.

    OuchCart CEO & founder Atif Shamsi:

    The integration of modern visualisation technologies including photogrammetry and real-time rendering into e-commerce can be life-changing in the way that consumers see and experience products online. The three-dimensional models look like a real product with absolute details. This would enable customers to virtually put the product in their own space thus having a direct feeling for a better fit and informed purchase.

    Saraf Furniture founder & CEO Raghunandan Sarraf:

    The metaverse provides a channel for the development of aesthetic and artistic product storytelling. By applying the latest tech like volumetric video and spatial computing we can develop stories in which viewers can experience and go through the place, things, or product in a very detailed way that is very difficult to perform online. Such a change in the event could be a defining factor providing an additional emotional layer to the experience of customers and as a result, leading not only to the higher brand awareness but to the skyrocketing sales.

    French Essence founder & CMO Nidhi Gupta:

    In the ever-evolving landscape of e-commerce, embracing cutting-edge technologies isn’t merely an option – it’s a necessity. Just as we blend rare essences to create timeless fragrances, we embrace cutting-edge technologies to redefine the boundaries of e-commerce.

    In an effort to ensure relevance and competitiveness, we continuously explore innovative ways to incorporate these advancements into our solutions. From AI-driven solutions to tech-enabled security measures, each opportunity becomes a gateway to revolutionising customer experiences, streamlining operations, and staying ahead of the curve.

    By harnessing the power of innovation, we not only enhance convenience but also evoke emotions and forge connections. Through this relentless pursuit of progress, we transform the digital landscape into an enchanting realm where every click is a journey of discovery.

    Through relentless exploration and strategic implementation, we chart a course towards unparalleled efficiency, effectiveness, and excellence in meeting the evolving needs of our customers and staying ahead of the curve in the digital marketplace.

    BOD Consulting senior partner and practice leader, customer strategy Anjali Malhotra:

    Metaverse will change the way people shop, by providing immersive product experiences and life-like product interactions that make the experience fun, interactive & enjoyable. These cohesive shopping experiences will close the gap between physical and online shopping experiences.

    Augmented reality has already been implemented in many categories like jewellery, bags, watches, and colour cosmetics, enabling brands to effectively showcase their product’s features. Customers can also do “virtual try-ons” of the products online, and see how they “look” and make them “feel”.

    In the future, the advent of VR (virtual reality) will make it even more engaging by allowing virtual shopping assistants and even social shopping experiences where they can interact with other shoppers and get shopping advice from online friends.

    Gokwik CEO & co-founder Chirag Taneja:

    With AR/VR becoming more advanced by the minute, the metaverse which is set to experience a CAGR of 34.98 per cent and reach a total market size of $485.8 Bn by 2030 holds immense potential for online shopping, offering a platform for enhanced, immersive shopper experiences. For instance, shoppers can do virtual try-ons of the products they want to buy, attend new product launches in real time get fully immersed in the unique experiences a brand has to provide. We are in the era of extreme personalisation, with Vision Pro and Google VR headsets becoming popular, it’s evident people want these immersive, interactive experiences. The integration of social features into the metaverse can also redefine e-commerce, given that 71 per cent of shoppers are influenced by social media these days. The metaverse will very well transform the essence of shopping, combining the convenience of e-commerce with the experiential richness, something that shoppers these days desire.

    Being tech first is our DNA. We have been constantly using network intelligence-backed robust tech capabilities in the entirety of our multi-product suite to help e-commerce brands grow across the funnel. Our cutting-edge technology has created a checkout solution is the fastest, safest and most rewarding solution that elevates the shopper experience and enhances GMV for brands. Not only this, we are leveraging AI and machine learning capabilities to solve for RTO problem right at the source, thereby reducing return-before-delivery losses for brands and enabling their growth. We are also using technology to enable omnichannel automated and personalised communication, ensuring targeted messaging across platforms, at every stage of the shopping funnel. We continue to keep our solutions abreast of every technological advancement and trend while also continuing to create new tech based solutions to help e-commerce brands unlock their growth potential. By strategically integrating these innovations, we are continuing to enable brands with the best of tech, while they focus on building the best of products, thereby charting course to a 360 degree growth.

    Frendy co-founder & CEO Sameer Gandotra:

    Gaming has been transformed from a singular to a social experience. While shopping is a social experience but online shopping is still a singular experience. If the metaverse can transform e-commerce to a more engaging social experience, it will enhance the shopper’s engagement & brand’s connect with its consumers

    The biggest challenge for retailers on metaverse, will be about creating an immersive shopping experience for their customers. Replicating the auditory in-store retail experience is what will act as the biggest hook to grab the customer’s attention. I feel now, we will see multiple retailers trying to create the most personalised meta stores to extend a far more immersive experience for the consumers.

    We are currently using Computer Vision, to monitor the customer experience at our stores (checkout experience, availability of products, pilferage, shoplifting, etc) We are using AI-based tools to create better merchandising communication to the consumers and to forecast demand and manage our auto replenishment system. Endless aisles tech at the stores provides a wider assortment to consumers at the same retail point.

    Beyoung founder Shivam Soni:

    Metaverse has shaken up traditional commerce, offering online businesses opportunities to cater to their target groups in a three-dimensional world. As an everyday fashion brand, we are excited to see what’s in store for the e-commerce world.

    Beyoung is set to launch innovative solutions in this vertical, to offer our customers a convenient and personalised shopping experience.

    Finding the right sizes and styles for men in tier two, three, and four cities has traditionally been challenging.

    Virtual try-ons, powered by AR and VR technology, present an ideal solution to bridge the gap between uncertainty and satisfaction.

    This technology allows customers to explore multiple options, enhancing their confidence and decision-making process.

    This enables businesses to manage limited inventory more effectively while achieving higher conversion rates. Additionally, this approach creates greater engagement, brand awareness, significantly lowers return rates, enhance customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.

    Furthermore, it creates a seamless transition between online and offline channels.

    Ame Organic founder and CEO Nandita Sharma:

    The integration of the metaverse into e-commerce is set to redefine the retail landscape, offering unparalleled opportunities for both retailers and consumers. This promising new development is poised to deliver rich, immersive, and highly interactive shopping experiences, heralding the future of retail in the digital age. The advent of the metaverse will revolutionise the consumer experience, shifting the dynamics of interaction and engagement in virtual shopping environments. This new realm marks a paradigm shift from traditional e-commerce platforms to a more immersive, personalised, and engaging digital marketplace.

    Ame Organic is embracing the metaverse to offer a new level of personalisation. Here, you can design your own custom skincare routine, virtually try on products before you buy, and even see how they perform in realistic simulated scenarios. Additionally, the integration of biotechnology is set to play a pivotal role in our future offerings. By leveraging cellular-level research and innovations, we aim to create products that not only provide superior results but also revolutionize the way skincare is approached. The use of the metaverse as a platform for biotechnology firms underscores the potential for groundbreaking advancements, making personalised skincare more effective and accessible than ever before.

    HiveMinds chief strategy officer Deepti Bhadauria:

    Imagine browsing virtual stores alongside friends, attending fashion shows with celebrities, or learning about complex gadgets in interactive showrooms. The metaverse promises to revolutionise online shopping, offering a more immersive, personalized, and engaging experience for consumers.

    Metaverse is making us reimagine the way brands can tell their story, but especially for the online shopping, a few trends might emerge:

    1.   The biggest impact of metaverse on online shopping will be through data enrichment and customer experience.

    Right now, brands track user journey and buying patterns to understand their customers. But through metaverse, brands can know the customer at a much deeper level, for example, we know, India loves IPL, but on metaverse, we will know which of our customers follows which team, how much they are willing to pay for premium seats in the virtual stadium. This will then further help to use AI to customise the ads and get much better conversion. Instead of showing a cricket collection, a brand can show me a t-shirt of my favorite team, especially when the team has recently won a match.

    2.   In online shopping, the biggest challenge marketers’ face while launching new categories is to bridge the knowledge gap and educate customers about how to use the product.  With realistic video generative AI like Sora from OpenAI and Veo from Google Gemini, the aspect of consumer education – and education in general, is set to be disrupted in a big way.

    3.   One of the memorable reasons why we love shopping is window-shopping, looking at aspirational purchases or products that you might want to buy in the near-future but don’t want to buy right now. In offline shopping, we also tend to go from one store to another, complementing an apparel store visit with a jewellery store visit later, eg. In the metaverse, these sort of innate human behaviors can be mimicked so that customers get a wholesome buying experience.

    We understand that the initial hype cycle of Metaverse didn’t match the eventual payoff, but like with all emerging futuristic technology – there is an adoption curve. And it’s ok if some initial versions were not successful. Just like how the experience of listening to music changed from cassette players to walkmans to cd players to ipods etc, every new generation of the Metaverse will be multiple times easier to use while being significantly more beneficial. We’re quite lucky to witness a lot of the genius ideas in technology – including multimodal AI, metaverse, data-privacy tech happening simultaneously and hence there is a huge potential for these ideas to interplay with each other, improving the overall capability and experience.

    Grapes co-founder and CEO Shradha Agarwal:

    Metaverse has been gaining a lot of traction across industries, owing to which people have high hopes that it could revolutionise the online shopping experience. Amidst such optimism, it is very difficult to foresee how it will shape the shopping experience in the future. It can take customers a while to understand the various nuances of using Metaverse. Looking at the interface, at times it can be exhausting for people to explore the myriad features of the Metaverse.

    For instance, creating an online avatar for understanding and viewing the use case of the products can involve a lot of hassle. Moreover, with constant upgradation, it becomes very difficult to stay updated and adapt to the new features being added. But industry players can still capitalise on the trend of the metaverse by strategically tapping the right set of audience. For instance, they can integrate and promote shopping sites on other platforms, such as gaming sites, to grab the attention of the audience that is familiar with the various aspects of the metaverse.

    Zippee founder & CEO Madhav Kasturia:

    We see the metaverse as a paradigm shift that will make it more conducive for a consumer to browse, interact, and purchase products- seamlessly from the comfort of their homes. Adoption of emerging technologies like AR & VR will help D2C brands deliver an immersive online shopping experience. Industry behemoths like Flipkart recently rolled out Flipverse, their metaverse project.

    At zippee, we’ve always believed in leveraging technology to solve the most pressing problems for our customers- from the ground up. We’ve implemented AI-powered route optimization algorithms to streamline delivery routes & enhance operational efficiency. We also leverage data analytics and machine learning to help our brands predict demand patterns, optimize inventory management, and minimize stockouts. This helps them significantly improve order fulfillment rates & customer loyalty.

    FNP global CEO & director Pawan Gadia:

    The integration of data analytics and AI algorithms has fundamentally transformed the way we envision the future of online shopping at FNP. By leveraging insights gleaned from customer data, we’re pioneering a new era of personalized gifting experiences within the metaverse. Imagine virtual showrooms tailored to individual preferences and interactive avatars guiding customers through an immersive gifting journey. The metaverse holds immense potential to revolutionize online gifting, allowing us to showcase our product offerings in innovative ways and ensuring a smooth delivery experience. We’re excited to lead the charge in leveraging this technology to enhance customer engagement, satisfaction, and the overall gifting experience.

    At FNP, we’re committed to pushing the boundaries of e-commerce innovation through the integration of cutting-edge technologies. Our recent focus on data integration for personalisation and enhanced customer experience underscores this commitment. By harnessing the power of data analytics and AI, we’ve been able to analyze customer behavior and preferences at a granular level, enabling us to tailor our product offerings and marketing efforts to meet their individual needs. This personalization not only results in improved customer engagement but also enhances the gifting experience, ensuring a smooth and delightful delivery process. Moving forward, we remain dedicated to exploring and integrating new technologies that will further elevate the online gifting experience for our customers, making it more seamless and enjoyable.

  • Fukrey 3 to premier on &pictures on 19 May at noon

    Fukrey 3 to premier on &pictures on 19 May at noon

    Mumbai: Hold onto your seats as the misadventures of the Fukras continue in the much-awaited Fukrey 3, making its premiere on &pictures. Expect nothing less than a hilarious rollercoaster of events filled with laughter, friendship, and unexpected twists. From comical misunderstandings to hair-raising escapades, the Fukrey gang sticks together through thick and thin, finding humor and support in each other even in the most unconventional circumstances.

    Machegi full on masti jab ayegi yeh fukro ki toli! &Pictures brings your favourites Hunny, Choocha, Lali, and Panditji and their hungamas to your TV screens. Whether you’re looking for a break from the week’s hustle or simply craving some light-hearted entertainment, Fukrey 3 guarantees a fun-filled experience that will leave everyone smiling and make your Sunday afternoon perfect.

    Richa Chadha expressed, “Fukrey has always held a special place in my heart, and seeing the audience’s reactions to each installment fills me with joy. Bringing life to my character, Bholi Punjaban, has been a fulfilling journey, allowing me to explore depth and complexity with each film. Returning to the sets for the third time felt like a homecoming, reuniting with my Fukrey family, whom I’ve grown close to over the years. I can’t wait for viewers to experience the magic of Fukrey 3 once again on &Pictures.”

    Pulkit Samrat reflected, “Each film in the Fukrey franchise has been a valuable learning experience for me, allowing me to delve deeper into the complexities of my character, Hunny. With each installment, I’ve been pushed to stretch my limits and venture into unfamiliar territories. The overwhelming love from our fans for each character has been a driving force, inspiring us to deliver our best. As Fukrey 3 gears up for its premiere on &Pictures, I can’t wait for viewers to be swept away by the sheer entertainment it brings..”

    The versatile, Pankaj Tripathi said, “Returning to the world of comedy with the Fukrey franchise always fills me with joy. Pandit Ji will always hold a special place in my heart as a memorable character. Fukrey 3 is a delightful treat, packed with laughter, fantastic chemistry, and clever jokes. After entertaining audiences in theaters, our Fukrey gang is ready to bring the laughs once more with the &Pictures premiere.”

    The vision behind the beloved Fukrey comedy franchise, Mrighdeep Lamba, expressed, “Directing Fukrey 3 has been an immensely rewarding journey. Seeing these characters come to life once again fills me with pride and now, with the &Pictures premiere, I’m excited for the audience to join us on this adventure and share some genuine laughs with our beloved Fukrey family.”

    Varun Sharma expressed, “Playing the character of Choocha has been a life-changing experience. Through this film and character, I’ve had the chance to showcase my talent. Just like the last two films, Choocha in Fukrey 3 continues to bring laughter, and I’m grateful that my character has always received immense love and appreciation from the audience. Fukrey 3 is the perfect film to enjoy with friends and family, and I’m excited for its premiere on the &pictures channel.”

    Manjot Singh said, “My character, Lali, resonates with many as they can find someone like him in their own family, and that’s what makes it special to me. Fukrey 3 is a fun-filled film, and Lali is just as entertaining, always having his friends’ backs. I’m thrilled that audiences will have the chance to enjoy the movie in the comfort of their homes when it premieres on &pictures.”

    A comic entertainer driven by smart writing, witty gags and quirky one-liners, Fukrey 3 is guaranteed to leave you in tears of laughter. Following the footsteps of the last two prequels of the Fukrey franchise, Fukrey 3 is set to take you on a journey filled with jokes.

    Tune in to &pictures and experience the magic of Fukrey 3 with your loved ones this Sunday, 19 May at 12 pm.

  • “India has immense potential to become an AI innovation & adoption hub”: Metaphy Labs’ Varun Sharma

    “India has immense potential to become an AI innovation & adoption hub”: Metaphy Labs’ Varun Sharma

    Mumbai: The world is witnessing a revolution with the steady rise of AI, virtual humans, and immersive technologies. Leading this transformative wave is Varun Sharma, a young, dynamic and visionary leader who has driven innovation and entrepreneurship through multiple successful startups and advisory roles.

    As co-founder of Metaphy Labs, now acquired by gaming giant Jetsynthesys, he has pioneered the use of proprietary AI to reshape brand-consumer connections by recreating extraordinary immersive experiences through innovative digital immersion and progressive AI solutions. His work extends beyond technology, impacting philanthropy and the Web3 ecosystem, where he collaborates with notable figures and invests in future-forward startups.

    Indiantelevision.com caught up with Metaphy Labs COO & co-founder Varun Sharma to gain insights on their crafting of hyper-realistic immersions and virtual humans, role of emotional intelligence in the development of AI-driven brand experiences, future of immersive technology and more…

    Edited Excerpts:

    On your inspiration behind starting Metaphy Labs, and the company’s evolution since its inception

    Metaphy Labs was born from a passion for pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with technology. We saw the immense potential of AI and immersive experiences to create profound and impactful interactions. Since then, Metaphy Labs has grown from a small team of enthusiasts to a recognised force in the industry. We’ve constantly evolved, expanding our capabilities in AI, virtual humans, and building a strong foundation in enterprise-grade solutions.

    On Metaphy Labs setting itself apart in terms of crafting hyper-realistic immersions, virtual humans, and industry simulations

    What sets us apart is our relentless pursuit of  hyper-realism and authenticity. We combine advanced AI algorithms with state-of-the-art rendering techniques to create experiences that are indistinguishable from reality. Our focus on understanding the nuances of human behaviour and interaction allows us to craft virtual humans that are truly lifelike, enabling us to create simulations that are not only visually stunning but also deeply engaging. We help our users to connect beyond their screens.

    On Metaphy Labs leveraging AI and progressive technologies to create these immersive experiences, and the impact they have on various industries

    AI is the heart of Metaphy Labs. We harness the power of AI to create dynamic, responsive environments that adapt to user input in real-time. These immersive experiences have the potential to revolutionise industries ranging from healthcare and education to retail and manufacturing, allowing organisations to train employees more effectively, engage customers more deeply, and streamline operations with virtual simulations. Additionally, we explore progressive technologies like real-time emotional recognition to personalise and enhance user experiences.

    On role that emotional intelligence play in the development of AI-driven brand experiences, and Metaphy Labs integrating this into its solutions

    Emotional intelligence is crucial in creating AI-driven brand experiences that resonate with users on a deeper level. At Metaphy Labs, we understand that emotions drive behaviour, so we place a strong emphasis on imbuing our virtual humans and immersive environments with emotional intelligence. By leveraging AI algorithms that can recognize and respond to human emotions, we create experiences that are emotionally compelling, forging stronger connections between brands and their audiences.

    This allows our solutions to exhibit genuine empathy, build trust, and leave a lasting impression on users.

    On foreseeing the landscape of AI adoption and innovation evolving in India, and the opportunities this presents for Metaphy Labs

    India has immense potential to become a hub for AI innovation and adoption, driven by its large pool of talent and growing tech ecosystem as well as government initiatives. As AI continues to permeate every aspect of business and society, there will be increasing demand for cutting-edge solutions that can drive productivity and innovation.  Metaphy Labs is well-positioned to capitalize on this growth, becoming a leader in the Indian AI landscape by collaborating with forward-thinking organizations in India and beyond, leveraging our expertise to create transformative experiences that push the boundaries of what’s possible.

    On the future of immersive technology and their impact on industries beyond gaming and entertainment

    The future of immersive tech is incredibly exciting. We’ll see applications far beyond gaming and entertainment. Imagine immersive training simulations for surgeons, personalised learning experiences, or virtual showrooms that redefine e-commerce. Immersive experiences have the power to transform how we work, learn, and interact with the world around us. While we continue to innovate, our recent brand partnerships and campaigns with industry leaders like Flipkart and Mondelēz have been a true testament to the exciting opportunities that await us.

    On Metaphy Labs’ upcoming projects or initiatives that you’re particularly excited about

    While specifics are confidential, we’re working on some truly groundbreaking projects with the biggest names in the industry. We’re pushing the boundaries of AI to human interaction and exploring the potential of AI-powered product customisation within immersive environments. Moreover, we have also actively been developing on responsible AI with a core belief of  making ‘AI for humans’ & ‘AI more Human’.

  • GreatWhite Electricals launches its latest campaign #ShockinglyBright, partners with TheSmallBigIdea

    GreatWhite Electricals launches its latest campaign #ShockinglyBright, partners with TheSmallBigIdea

    Mumbai: GreatWhite Electricals, a leading Indian home electricals brand, launched its latest campaign #ShockinglyBright, featuring its groundbreaking product line of LumaPro LED range. As a part of this new launch, GreatWhite Electricals unveiled an ad film, across television, digital and social media platforms in eight languages. The brand film released as part of the #ShockinglyBright campaign is one of three ad films conceptualized and crafted by TheSmallBigIdea for GreatWhite Electricals’ exceptionally bright LumaPro LED range.

    With ‘Lighting up the world, in a shocking manner’, as its core messaging, the ad film, featuring Varun Sharma, traces the journey of the LumaPro LED range of products, from discovery to end use case. The brand film created by TheSmallBigIdea redefines innovation, ensuring that even on mute, the film effectively conveys the essence of top-notch lighting solutions, making them a compelling choice for consumers. Setting the tone of the ad film is an old-school comedy vibe with retro music and different cinematic styles.

    Speaking about the brand’s leadership, GreatWhite Global Pvt. Ltd. MD Hemang Shah said, “At GreatWhite, we envision a safer and a brighter future for homes nationwide. The introduction of our cutting-edge LumaPro Shockingly Bright LED range is a testament to our dedication to brilliance, both in design and functionality. We believe in providing innovative and reliable electrical solutions; it is about empowering homes with quality products consumers deserve, at economical pricing with a brilliant output in terms of delivering high lumens per watt. The brand films beautifully communicate the core features of this LED range. With the launch of our campaign #ShockinglyBright, we aim to illuminate not just spaces, but minds too, fostering a culture where brightness is not just a luxury but a necessity.”

    GreatWhite Global Pvt. Ltd. General Manager – Marketing & Brand Communications Shhailja Chopra further added, “Our campaign #ShockinglyBright revolutionizes our customer’s lighting experience with exceptional and superior quality LED lighting solutions. The campaign is reflective of our idea of Varun being the perfect fit for the #ShockinglyBright Range, since he is superb in terms of expression and has a strong audience pull. Our collaboration with TheSmallBigIdea was a fruitful experience. These extremely passionate bunch of people with a great sense of creativity knew exactly what we expected and delivered results par excellence. This campaign will definitely strike the right chord and build recall for a longer run.”

    Commenting on creating the brand films, TheSmallBigIdea COO & co-founder Manish Solanki said, “At TheSmallBigIdea, we take immense pride in creating impactful narratives that resonate with audiences. We are delighted to have partnered with GreatWhite Electricals in their mission to ‘Lighting up the world, in a shocking manner’. When tasked with creating the ad films for GreatWhite’s LumaPro LED Range, with the messaging #ShockinglyBright, it was imminent for us to make the consumers feel the same emotion and who better than Varun Sharma. We had an incredible experience working with Varun Sharma, his humour and charm has added a comic essence that truly justifies the ad films.”

  • Celebs share what drew them to romance audio series this Valentine’s Day

    Celebs share what drew them to romance audio series this Valentine’s Day

    Mumbai: While romance has always been a popular genre, Audible India’s 2023 wrap highlighted that romance and fiction stole the spotlight as one of the top three favourite genres among Indian listeners this year. This Valentine’s Day, let’s take a peek at some of the most popular titles on the service and hear what their celebrity narrators have to say about them. Get ready to be swept away by passion, drama, and love stories that captivate both hearts and minds only on Audible!

    Sasural Wonder Phool

    Written by: Malavika Asthana, Gaurav Singh, Shruti Tiwari; Starring: Varun Sharma, Sanya Malhotra

    Set in Delhi, this Audible Original follows the journey of Prashant, a young doctor from a progressive family running a sex clinic in Delhi, as he navigates the challenges of finding love. With a blend of humour, romance, and a hint of taboo, this podcast starring Sanya Malhotra and Varun Sharma, offers a refreshing take on relationships. Why wait? Dive into it right away!

    Sanya Malhotra said, “In ‘Sasural Wonder Phool’, my character Ashima gets married to a sex therapist (the inimitable Varun Sharma) who runs a sex clinic with his entire family. Need I say more? The show is bizarre, hilarious, incredibly entertaining and so different from anything I have ever done before – I just know my fans are going to love it! This has been my first brush with audio and I am hooked – I can’t wait to do more!”

    Little Things: Jab Dhruv Met Kavya

    Written by: Pocket Aces; Starring: Dhruv Sehgal, Mithila Palkar

    This is an Audible Original podcast series, where Mithila Palkar and Dhruv Sehgal take you on a tale of a beautiful love story that is defined by the little moments of serendipity. From a chance movie date that ignited the spark to shared bhaji outings that added flavour to their love story, you get to follow the timeline of their lovely moments that transformed an awkward, sensitive guy and a girl-next-door into a love-struck duo. So what are you waiting for? Here’s your cue to tune into this epic podcast.

    Mithila Palkar said, “This is a really sweet special story about how Dhruv and Kavya met, and I know fans are going to enjoy listening to it.”

    Darmiyaan

    Written by: Jaya Misra; Starring: Sriti Jha, Shabir Ahluwalia

    If you’re seeking to experience a rollercoaster journey of emotions this V-Day, Darmiyaan is definitely the ideal choice. It is an Audible Original podcast narrated by the popular duo Sriti Jha and Shabir Ahluwalia! Sakshi Dewan (Sriti Jha) is undergoing a troubled marriage, wary of the truths that her husband kept from her. The distraught Sakshi encounters Ridhaan (Shabir Ahluwalia), a young man who motivates her to discover her genuine purpose and helps her in living life on her terms. Nothing less than an epic romantic saga, tune in to Audible to discover if Sakshi will take an opportunity with the newfound connection with Ridhaan and take a chance at love.

    Ekta Kapoor said, “Conceptualizing entertainment content in audio has been an experience of a lifetime and has helped me push the creative envelope further than ever before. “‘Darmiyaan’ (and first audio show!) has everything Balaji fans love – love, unbelievable scandals, shocking twists and much, much more. I’m sure listeners are going to love it, and become audiophiles for life!”

    Permanent Roommates: He Said, She Said

    Written by: The Viral Fever; Starring: Sumeet Vyas, Nidhi Singh

    Experience the rollercoaster of love with Permanent Roommates: He Said, She Said, a beautiful 20-episode series perfect for this Valentine’s Day! Follow the journey of Mikesh and Tanya as they navigate the highs and lows of living together, from house-hunting woes to the complexities of marriage, showing you a glimpse into the realities of modern relationships. Tune in for a charming exploration of everyday life and love that’s sure to resonate with couples celebrating the season of romance.

    Sumeet Vyas stated, “I was ecstatic when I got the call that we would be doing something new with Permanent Roommates. Mikesh and Tanya are both very close to my heart and it’s amazing to be able to portray them in a new format. Audio is such a powerful tool for storytelling and I’m so excited for everyone who has loved and supported Permanent Roommates to experience new moments in such a relatable and engaging way.”

    The Last Girl to Fall in Love (English and Hindi)

    Written by: Durjoy Datta; Starring: Prateik Babbar, Rasika Dugal (English) and Anupriya Goenka, Akshay Oberoi (Hindi)

    The story, set in a world that is a rip-off of the earlier patriarchal system in Durjoy’s previous work, ‘The Last Boy to Fall in Love,’ flips the narrative on the meaning of culture. Women write the rules, while men follow them. In this podcast, you will witness a boy named Amartya who meets a girl named Erika in a world on the brink of extinction due to the Kali virus. Whether their meeting is a coincidence or something else, amidst this chaos, a love story unfolds between them. The question is, can love that blossoms suddenly amidst destruction, along with the strange coincidence of hope and revenge, turn into a complete love story? To find out, listen to it on Audible!

    Durjoy Datta said, “Writing for the audio medium has been an incredible experience and it’s surreal to see how characters are brought to life solely through voices and sound. Prateik Babbar, Rasika Dugal, Anupriya Goenka and Akshay Oberoi have narrated the books and have brought my vision to life so beautifully!”

  • Enjoy National Cinema Day with these 10 must-see films!

    Enjoy National Cinema Day with these 10 must-see films!

    Mumbai: Attention, cinephiles! Prepare for a cinematic extravaganza this Friday the 13th, as we celebrate National Cinema Day, an ode to India’s deep-seated passion for the world of movies. Remember those golden moments when family movie outings over the weekends lit up our weeks? But then the era of inflation emerged and cast its shadow over the beloved tradition of movie-watching. Families, friends, and movie enthusiasts can indulge in a movie marathon at the theatres for just Rs 99. Yes, you heard it right! For a day, folks can set aside their cost concerns to unwind and indulge in the pleasure of watching their most awaited films in the comfy ambience of your nearest cinemas including PVR INOX theatres.

    If that isn’t enticing enough, we have more. Brace yourself for an exciting lineup of the 10 most anticipated films of 2023 playing at multiplexes across India on this National Cinema Day. Check out the list below:

    1.   Dumb Money (releasing 13 October)

    Dumb Money follows the staggering rise to riches of Redditor and investor Keith Gill, who invested his entire savings in GameStop, a video game retailer. The film shows how he then goes on to write about his investment on Reddit and attracting the mass attention, propelling GameStop’s stock value to its all-time high. The film depicts the stock market’s dichotomy, that it can either make or mar you.

    2.   Dhak Dhak (releasing 13 October)

    Nothing is more amazing than seeing women go for their goals and succeed in spite of social constraints. Dhak Dhak is the story of four ordinary women who transform into impressive bikers, their on-road adventures, and the heartwarming camaraderie they share. Not just this, this film marks the directorial debut of acclaimed actress Tapsee Pannu.

    3.   Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie (releasing 13 October)

    It’s always fun to watch villains being defeated by superheroes and Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie takes this to the next level. Witness a team of superhero pups defeat the enemy and save their city from doom and perish. This film promises endless entertainment with its gripping plot and vibrant visuals.

    4.   800 (in cinemas)

    800 is not just a cricket biopic; it is a story of overcoming adversity and staying true to your passion. The biographic sports film takes audiences through the life of Muthiah Muralitharan, a refugee who rose to become a cricketing legend. The film appeals to audiences across all age groups and will surely captivate fans of cricket & other sports, do not miss this inspirational tale.

    5.   Mission Raniganj (in cinemas)

    Mission Raniganj has captured our hearts with its heartfelt narrative of a nation’s quest to rescue the stranded labourers in the 1989 Raniganj coal mine disaster headlined by one man. The late Jaswant Singh Gill’s grit helped India’s first successful coal mine rescue mission and one cannot miss witnessing this historic portrayal calmness and bravery of one man on mission.

    6.   Fukrey 3 (in cinemas)

    The first two instalments in the Fukrey film series spread a wave of infectious laughter and Fukrey 3 upholds the expectations. The film has the audiences in splits with the funny antics and bond of a group of friends. Pulkit Samrat, Varun Sharma and Manjot Singh are once again out to win your hearts with Richa Chadha with their hilarious performances.

    7.   Dono (in cinemas)

    What’s one of the best places to find love? A wedding! The romance drama Dono starring Garima Agarwal and Rajveer Deol, is a beautiful portrayal of love flourishing between two broken hearts. The film’s refreshing take on modern love and growth along with its depiction of today’s youth and their perception of romance and intimacy is a worthy and fun watch.

    8.   The Exorcist: Believer (in cinemas)

    A terrifying sequel to the iconic The Exorcist, this supernatural horror has spread a dread among the audiences in cinemas. The eerie visuals paired with spine-tingling music along with the suspenseful plot has been a hit among the audiences. The film also sees the return of Chris McNeil, once facing the dark evil that once possessed her daughter. If you’re a horror buff, grab this opportunity to witness true horror that The Exorcist: Believer.

    9.   Thank You for Coming (in cinemas)

    Thank You for Coming is an enjoyable and touching narrative of women embracing their sexuality and womanhood, breaking out of the barrier set by our society. A married woman stuck in an unsatisfactory marriage reunites with her friends and together they embark on a journey of discovering their wants and desires. The film stars Bhumi Pednekar, Kusha Kapila, Shehnaaz Gill and Shibani Bedi as the leading ladies.

    10.   The Vaccine War (in cinemas)

    The Covid-19 pandemic tested our resilience during two years of lockdown, impacting our mental and physical well-being. The sudden isolation and rising death toll worsened the situation and kept us on edge. Amidst the doom, India’s medical workers emerged as heroes, working relentlessly to develop a vaccine. Vivek Agnihotri’s The Vaccine War tells the inspiring tale of India’s battle against COVID-19, highlighting the courage of those who sought a solution in the midst of chaos.

    These films promise a mix of laughter, romance, terror, and warmth, each worthy to be watched on the silver screens. This National Cinema Day, watch your favourite film at the nearest PVR INOX theatres at just Rs 99!

  • Amazon miniTV’s new comedy series ‘Case Toh Banta Hai’ to stream on 29 July

    Amazon miniTV’s new comedy series ‘Case Toh Banta Hai’ to stream on 29 July

    Mumbai: Amazon miniTV, the ad-supported streaming service by Amazon piloted in India, has announced the launch of its new show Case Toh Banta Hai that will begin streaming on 29 July. The platform released the quirky trailer for the show on 18 July.

    Produced by Banijay Asia, the show features actor Riteish Deshmukh, comedian Varun Sharma and influencer Kusha Kapila who play prosecutor, defender and judge in the comedy series. The trio will take popular celebrities including Rohit Shetty, Badshah, Kareena Kapoor, Sara Ali Khan, Karan Johar, Varun Dhawan, Anil Kapoor and more to task by charging them with the most oddball allegations.  

    The show has a stellar supporting cast including Gopal Dutt, Paritosh Tripathi, Monica Murthy, Sanket Bhosle, Sugandha Mishra and Siddharth Sagar.

    Speaking about the concept of the show, Banijay Asia CEO and founder Deepak Dhar said, “India has a great appetite for experimental content which allows us to curate fresh formats that revitalises the existing genres. To helm our original concept of Case Toh Banta Hai, we wanted to bring a combination of faces that were never seen together before, thus, we brought in unique voices from the industry with Riteish Deshmukh, Varun Sharma, Kusha Kapila and a spectrum of talented artists. This is Banijay Asia’s first collaboration with Amazon miniTV, so a snackible content like Case Toh Banta Hai makes for a perfect show to kick start this association.”

    Amazon miniTV has roped in sponsors Noise and Campus Shoes for the show. Banijay Asia has completed filming three-fourth of the series i.e., 12-15 episodes. A new episode of the season will drop every Friday on the miniTV platform native within the Amazon app and Amazon.in website.