MxMIndia

Category: Top Stories

  • Strengthening its Leadership Team

    Approach Entertainment ropes in Tushar Gondalia as Gujarat Head

    Tushar Gondalia
    Tushar Gondalia

    Approach Entertainment Group, an integrated media and entertainment company, has appointed Tushar Gondalia as the new Head for its Gujarat operations. This move is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to expand its footprint and enhance its service offerings across the region.

    Sonu Tyagi
    Sonu Tyagi

    Said Founder and MD Sonu Tyagi on the appointment: “We are thrilled to welcome Tushar Gondalia to the Approach Entertainment Group family. His extensive experience and creative vision align perfectly with our mission to deliver top-tier entertainment and communication solutions. We are confident that under his leadership, our operations in Gujarat will reach new heights.”

  • To drive its public relations mandate

    Pocket FM partners with One Source

    Integrated marketing consultancy One Source has partnered with audio series platform Pocket FM for its public relations mandate.

    Regarding the partnership, Rahul Nag, Director – Communications and Partnerships, Pocket FM, said: “One Source impressed us with their focus on driving business impact and their commitment to partnering with brands. As we pioneered a new entertainment category globally with audio series, it was crucial to find partners who share our vision and align with our strategic approach. One Source proved to be the perfect fit, understanding our goals and aligning seamlessly with our strategy.”

    Added Sandeep Rao, Co–founder and Co-Chief Executive Officer, One Source: “This collaboration is a testament to the business impact work we have delivered with partners across the globe. Our focus as a consultancy has always been on growing our partners’ businesses, thereon growing ours. We are excited to collaborate with Pocket FM in the next phase of our mutual growth and build a category which is poised to disrupt the future of global entertainment.”

  • Objective: To add trust and credibility to the brand

    Ravi Shastri joins Petzzco as Principal Advisor & Brand Ambassador

    Petzzco, the pet care service provider, has named former cricketer and commentator Ravi Shastri as its principal advisor and brand ambassador.

    Commenting on the association, Raj Kantak, Founder, Petzzco, said: “Pet-lovers often have a strong bond with their pets and look for guidance and recommendations from people they admire. Since Ravi Shastri is an avid pet-lover himself, he can connect with Petzzco’s target audience on an emotional level. Having Ravi Shastri as a brand ambassador can significantly increase Petzzco’s brand awareness. His association with the company will generate positive media attention and public interest.”

  • Films created in collaboration with OML

    Canva unveils first local brand campaign

    Canva, the visual communication platform, unveiled its inaugural brand marketing campaign ‘Dil Se, Design Tak’.

    Said Chandrika Deb, Growth and Marketing Lead for Canva India: “In today’s world of work, effective visual communication is crucial. At Canva, we’ve seen first-hand how visual communication empowers teams to express ideas clearly, increase collaboration, and supercharge innovation,” adding: “To demonstrate our commitment and build a truly local brand in India, we launched this campaign to highlight how Canva is leading the charge when it comes to visual communication at work. ‘Dil Se, Design Tak’ reminds us all that there’s a designer in each and every one of us, and our creativity can flourish at work and in everyday life, with Canva.”

  • Conceptualised and executed by Moonshot

    Shaadi.com campaign takes a jab at dating apps

     

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    A post shared by Anupam Mittal (@anupammittal.me)

    Matchmaking platform Shaadi.com has launched its latest ad campaign ‘Red Flags Se Savdhaan’, highlighting the pain-points of looking for potential “green flag” partners in a world full of commitment phobic junta on dating apps. The 35-second tongue-in-cheek TVC that also doubles as a digital ad film features Super Shark and founder of Shaadi.com, Anupam Mittal.

    Conceptualised and executed by Moonshot, a Mumbai-based creative agency, the ad campaign has further cemented Shaadi.com’s position not only as a household name in the online matchmaking industry but also as one casting a new-age perspective on the online matchmaking process.

    Said Adhish Zaveri, VP Marketing, Shaadi.com: “As someone deeply invested in understanding modern day relationships, a large chunk of the youth appear to be unhappy and fatigued with dating apps. The pursuit of authenticity and meaningful connections seem to be lost. Unrealistic expectations from their partner and fear of commitment are keeping most people single and unhappy. Shaadi.com is designed for people who are seeking commitment and thus, a wonderful place to find meaningful and stable relationships.”

  • Massive opportunity for Indian Esports

    First-ever Olympic Esports Games to take place in 2025

    The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has announced that the inaugural Olympic Esports Games will take place in Saudi Arabia in 2025. This decision follows the recent proposal by the IOC’s Executive Board and will be presented at the IOC session ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

    Indian esports, already on the rise, stands to gain significantly from this development. Following a bronze medal win in DOTA 2 at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham and competing in five titles at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, India’s esports scene is on track for further growth.

    Expressing his enthusiasm for the groundbreaking development, Akshat Rathee, Co-founder and MD of Nodwin Gaming, said: “Nodwin Gaming is thrilled that esports has earned its place in the Olympics with its own standalone event, akin to the Summer, Winter, and Paralympics. This recognition allows countries to develop independent esports programs. Together with our partners in the GEF and the EWC, Nodwin Gaming is eager to build esports in our core growth markets, seizing this opportunity for hope and glory.”

    Commented Roby John, CEO and Co-founder at SuperGaming: “The IOC’s embrace of the Olympic Esports Games honors the dedication and skill of millions of gamers worldwide. It goes beyond just competition; it elevates esports to a global platform, encouraging international collaboration and potentially ushering in a new generation of athletes. This initiative truly is a landmark moment for esports, bringing it the global recognition it has long earned. The inclusion of esports in the Olympic movement demonstrates its growing influence and cements its place in the future of sports.”

    “We are absolutely elated by the announcement of the Olympic Esports Games which is being hosted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This marks a monumental step for the industry and all its stakeholders. The Indian esports sector is on an upward trajectory and this will further empower it. Esports being integrated under the banner of the pinnacle of sports events in the world will bring further legitimacy to this form of sport and encourage a new generation of esports talent to rise from the country. We’re excited and look forward to extending our support to the esports community of India so they make a mark at the global event!” said Vishal Parekh, COO, CyberPowerPC India.

  • Conceptualised by Leo Burnett

    Neeraj Chopra and PV Sindhu campaign for Visa

    Ahead of the Olympic Games Paris 2024, Visa digital payments has unveiled its new campaign ‘Small steps, Olympic dreams’ with Olympic champions Neeraj Chopra and PV Sindhu.

    Said Sujatha V. Kumar, Head – Marketing, India and South Asia, Visa: “At Visa we believe in a core tenet that anyone can make it – and our aim is to help them reach their goals.  The ‘Small steps, Olympic dreams’ campaign with Olympic champions Neeraj Chopra and PV Sindhu beautifully illustrates the myriad efforts that have helped them realise their Olympic dreams. Through this campaign, we encourage Indians to invest in themselves, assuring them that Visa is a secure partner by their side, one secure transaction at a time, dedicated to getting them closer to where they want to be.”

    Conceptualised by Leo Burnett India the campaign is a tribute to the determination and resilience of athletes. It also appeals to everyone striving to achieve their goals and moving closer to them – one step at a time.

    Speaking about the campaign Sachin Kamble, Chief Creative Officer, Leo Burnett India added: “Creating a campaign that captures the spirit of progress through small steps was an extraordinary journey for us. By highlighting the journey of Neeraj Chopra and PV Sindhu, we aimed to show that each small step can lead to and culminate in remarkable achievements. This narrative aligns perfectly with Visa’s brand ethos of empowering individuals to move forward confidently, and we hope it inspires millions to chase their dreams, knowing that Visa is there to support them every step of the way.”

  • The four-part ad series is conceptualised by Famous Innovations

    Ranbir Kapoor features in new Oppo Reno 12 series

    Oppo India has launched the Reno12 Series featuring advanced AI capabilities. Actor and Oppo India Reno brand ambassador, Ranbir Kapoor, stars in a content series crafted by Famous Innovations.

    Said Karan Dua, Head of Product Marketing, Oppo India: “We are thrilled to launch the Oppo Reno12 Series in India, pushing innovation boundaries through Oppo AI with exquisite design. Famous Innovations’ creative expertise has vividly brought together the Oppo Reno12’s features and Ranbir Kapoor’s presence. Partnering with Kapoor, who is a symbol of versatility and is always giving his best works really well for us as his persona is in line with the Reno Series.”

    Added Sumit Chaurasia, Founding Partner and Creative Head – Delhi, Famous Innovations: “Behind the ad film was our aim to blend Oppo ‘s AI-technology seamlessly with Ranbir Kapoor’s presence. Positioning the OPPO Reno12’s AI as users’ best friend, we created a life-sized CGI Avatar to showcase its intelligence and user friendliness. Through their friendly banter, Ranbir Kapoor and Oppo AI bring alive how Oppo’s AI technology can tackle challenges during outdoor travel photography.”

  • Of 5 Million USD from A & MA Capital USA

    Planet Marathi gets investment of approx USD 5mn

    After three years of operations, Planet Marathi OTT, has announced a significant investment from a prominent US-based private equity firm, A & MA Capital USA. The initial investment, totalling approximately 5 Million USD, is expected to increase over the next two quarters.

    Akshay Bardapurkar
    Akshay Bardapurkar

    Commenting on the investment, Akshay Bardapurkar, Founder, Planet Marathi OTT, said: “We are committed to growing the Indian regional entertainment space and with this significant investment we are prepared to bolster our offerings and content slate. As a company we stay dedicated to bringing the best quality entertainment on OTT and with our new partners we will take this dedication to newer heights.”

    In addition to the private equity investment, Dcafe, a globally renowned media-tech company, has also entered into a strategic agreement with Planet Marathi OTT, further strengthening its technological capabilities.” Partnership with Dcafe platform represents a significant milestone for us, solidifying our position in the tech-driven entertainment landscape,” Bardapurkar added.

  • As Head of Product and Marketing for India

    Tata Starbucks appoints Mitali Maheshwari

    Mitali Maheshwari
    Mitali Maheshwari

    Tata Starbucks appoints Mitali Maheshwari as Product and Marketing Head for India. With over a decade of invaluable expertise in brand management and marketing, in her new role, Maheshwari will spearhead product innovation and drive marketing initiatives for the brand.

    Welcoming Maheshwari to the team, Adrit Mishra, Chief Operating Officer, Tata Starbucks, said: “As we continue building the category in India and extending our coffee leadership to deliver the signature Starbucks Experience to consumers, we are excited for Mitali to expound upon our product and marketing plans. With Mitali on board, we are also looking forward to enabling strategic product innovation that brings forth the best of global and local tastes for consumers in a manner that is familiar to them. Mitali’s dedication to her craft, coupled with her strategic mindset and innovative approach, makes her an invaluable addition to our team.”

  • As Chief Client Officer

    B. Ramanathan returns to Ogilvy

    B. Ramanathan
    B. Ramanathan

    B Ramanathan is back at Ogilvy India from Ogilvy Asia Pacific. Ramanathan will be joining the agency network as Chief Client Officer.

    Over a 29-year career, Ramanathan donned many hats. His stint in Ogilvy is now in its 24th year, 16 of which have been spent in various business and office leadership roles across markets in Ogilvy India.

    Prior to his move to Ogilvy India, Ramanathan’s last role was as the Chief Marketing Officer of Ogilvy Asia and the Global Brand Leader – Mondelez, based out of Kuala Lumpur.  He had also been instrumental in driving the growth and transformation agenda for Ogilvy Indonesia as it’s Group CEO.

    Said VR Rajesh, Group CEO, Ogilvy India: “Ogilvy India’s growth has been on the back of client centricity and depth of engagement and Ram’s return adds fillip to this core strength. He will focus on our top clients in bringing to bear the best of Ogilvy’s capabilities, driving transformation and growth of the businesses. He will be an important shot in the arm as Ogilvy India continues its journey of creative excellence.”

    Added Ramanathan: “It feels great to be back at the mothership, especially at a time when it is going through a purple patch. With the repertoire of marquee clients, I look forward to partnering with our fantastic teams across markets in delivering transformative work and growth for the businesses.”

  • To develop and execute a comprehensive communication strategy

    Pitchfork Partners secures mandate for ThinkLaw

    Pitchfork Partners Strategic Consulting LLP, the Mumbai-based communications agency, has secured the communication mandate for law firm ThinkLaw.

    Speaking about the partnership, Tushar Ajinkya, Founder and Managing Partner, ThinkLaw, said: “As we expand our reach and further solidify our position in the legal industry, Pitchfork’s insights and innovative approach will be invaluable in crafting a communication strategy that helps us engage better with all our key relationship sets. Their deep understanding of the communications landscape and their ability to translate complex concepts into compelling narratives will be instrumental in showcasing ThinkLaw’s unique value proposition. Together, we aim to position ThinkLaw as the go-to firm for businesses seeking holistic, research-driven legal solutions that address the ‘big picture’ challenges.”

    Added Jaideep Shergill, Co-Founder of Pitchfork Partners Strategic Consulting: “We’re quite thrilled to be partnering with ThinkLaw. Their dedication to client empowerment resonates with our approach to communications. This collaboration offers a great opportunity to combine our expertise and develop an impactful communication strategy that will propel ThinkLaw’s success and effectively position the firm as thought leaders in the legal fraternity.”