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Tag: Kyoorius

  • Up, close with Rajesh Kejriwal, Founder & CEO, Kyoorius on the inaugural edition of Melt, what he hopes to achieve and his style of doing things

    Ready, Steady, Melt!

     

    Last year, Rajesh Kejriwal, Founder and CEO of Kyoorius, created waves with the slickly produced and D&AD-backed Kyoorius Advertising and Digital Awards. This year, he has extended the offering to a two-day festival called Melt to be held in Mumbai on May 21 and 22. Not unexpectedly, comparisons are being made with Goafest, the three-day event organised by the Advertising Agencies Association of India and the Advertising Club. In a freewheeling interview with Pradyuman Maheshwari, Kejriwal takes pains to explain that there is no rivalry between the two. In fact, as he says, he created his events out of a desire to stimulate and encourage youngsters in the profession. Read on…

     

    A day to go for the inaugural Melt… your thoughts? All set?

    As set as one can be a day or two before the event. There always will be challenges but there are no hurdles or any real surprises, and that is a good thing.

     

    Are you satisfied with the way things are going? The speakers, the arrangements, the registrations?

    Very satisfied with the speaker list and topics being covered, satisfied with the arrangements, just about satisfied with the registrations in the inaugural event.

     

    You appear determined to take on the folks at the AAAI and Ad Club. Last year, you organised the Kyoorius Awards and this year, there’s Melt.

    There are two ways to look at this. First, I think the media is actually pitching us as competitors much more than we ourselves are doing. I don’t think there is any direct competition between the Goafest, Abby or Kyoorius, whether it’s Melt or the awards. I don’t even think the industry says it’s either this or that, except may be to those who have a slight budget constraint.

     

    Everybody has a budget constraint.

    But I’m painting a larger picture here. I don’t think it should be either/or. Goafest does what it needs to do, and we’re doing what we need to do. We’re exploring gaps that exist in the industry, especially for young people.  I’m not saying an advertising award itself was a gap that we’re filling; it was simply a space that allowed us to do something to stimulate the industry, and we did it. It wasn’t to say, ‘hey Goafest is doing badly so let’s do something’. I don’t think Goafest is doing badly. They need to tweak some things and it can come back on track. Like any other country with multiple festivals and award shows, India too can have that. What clearly needs to be defined is, can we make sure that these two festivals are positioned differently? As I mentioned last year, we are more of a critics’ event, while they are more popular. They have a gold-silver-bronze structure, while we have a certain standard that we maintain, and all the best works win. So there might be nine winners in a category, or none at all; it doesn’t matter. There’s a difference in how they view things and how we do, and that difference works for the industry too.

     

    Secondly, if you look at Melt, I don’t think this model exists anywhere in the world except perhaps with something similar at Cannes Lions. Cannes is obviously much bigger, more popular and with much more of everything. Melt, I would say, is a unique convergence of five segments — marketing, media, advertising, digital and emerging technologies. Other conferences have more straightforward sessions. People [in our industry] have a lot of questions but there are no ready answers. Nor are the possible answers all black-and-white, but more in shades of grey. Melt offers everybody an opportunity to look at these shades of grey critically.

     

    Let’s talk about the difference in the awards. First, you mentioned that one is a Critics’ Award, while the other is a Mass Awards event. But the entrants for both these awards are almost the same – it’s the same agencies

    I agree.

     

    Hence the thing of competition, because you’ll are catering to the same set of entrants…

    At the end of the day, I also compete with Cannes; with D&AD globally; with One Show, Clio, Adfest, all of them, because all the money an agency can provide, comes out of only one budget, right? As for Goafest and us, I agree that the universe is the same. The difference is, for instance, between having international and Indian jury members. We have an open jury system. We have an awards night which brings creativity and production qualities into the awards night itself. So there are a lot of differentiating ways in which we do things and those are what we think can stimulate the industry. There must be something beyond winning which motivates an agency.

     

    But you’ve still not been able to convince Lowe to participate.

    Last year was the first year. So if in our first year we’ve been able to convince and get 1,000 entries, I think that’s a great first year. Maybe Lowe will come in this year, or maybe they’ll come next year.

     

    You had Arun Iyer on the jury

    Yes, Arun was on the jury, but that has got nothing to do with the fact that we want him to participate.

     

    Maska?

    No maska.

     

    Give us more on Melt? Was the idea to first organise an awards event last year, impress the world, and give people something to talk about?

    I don’t think Kyoorius, at any point in time, does anything to impress the world. I think the larger goal is to impress the people from a content curation perspective, not grandeur perspective. I think what really kicked off this whole aspect of Melt was an internal discussion. We were talking to a few people, and a few of them said, ‘Next time make it bigger and better’. So my first question to them was, if you’re asking us to make it better, can you please tell me what was wrong with last year? Better usually means there was something wrong, otherwise why make it better? And when people say make it bigger, does that mean I look for an 80,000 square-foot space instead of 60,000, or do I use a larger LED screen? I think for me the more meaningful words were, can we make it more relevant to the industry?  Can we help fill a gap, especially for youngsters in the industry that can help them in their professional life? And can we bring the industry together in some way that celebrates creativity? So Melt, for us, is a festival of creativity.

     

    Are you saying that all this doesn’t exist in Goafest, hence, the gap?

    I’m not saying there’s a gap. I don’t think it exists in Goafest to the extent that we are doing it. Also Goafest happens in Goa, this is in Mumbai, and so more inclusive. I think Goafest also does not have the unique convergence of the five segments that I’m talking about, with something happening for all of these five people at the same time in parallel sessions. So we have workshops, debate sessions, discussions, conferences, installations, interactive Q&A sessions and such. We probably will have a showcase area and are looking at having what we call on-the-flow. People in the audience could think of a subject, go to a room and inform that they’re going to have this discussion in the hall, and invite anyone interested, to join them.

     

    What I’m trying to say is this unique convergence of marketing, media, advertising, digital and emerging technologies — nothing like this is happening in India.

     

    Do you think somewhere associating yourself with media houses could mean that other media companies may not embrace your event. Because once you are associated with a big player, the others just ignore you. For instance, when a Filmfare Awards happens, a Screen does not report about it, and vice versa.

    Which is sad.

     

    Which is sad, but don’t you think that will alienate the others from Melt?

    If you’re looking at it from a sponsor’s perspective, may be yes. But as a rule, Kyoorius does not take on sponsors from the same industry any way. We are very clear that if we take a sponsor from one industry, we normally and we’ve been able to maintain that so far, we do not take on another sponsor from the same industry. It makes no sense.

     

    So you’re not worried about The Times of India group not doing anything about Kyoorius?

    Editorially, the event is open to everyone. It’s not restricted to anybody. So if HT is my partner, editorially they have no exclusivity. None of them have exclusivity, editorially, nor do any of them have any preference, editorially.

     

    But since Zee is the principal partner and it has its name prefixed to Melt, do you think you’ll have a situation where Star will not participate as wholeheartedly, may not send a busload of people for it as it would have otherwise done, if it was neutral.

    I don’t think Star is narrow-minded. Zee also sponsors our Designyatra, Zee is our principal sponsor and we get our largest delegation from Star.

     

    Yeah, but Designyatra is different. Melt concerns the advertising agencies which is the big bad world, which is where all the negatives exist.

    So Melt is not specific to advertising. Melt is at the intersection of marketing, advertising, media, digital…

     

    Changing tracks, how do things work. For instance, is Zee Mindspace being organised by Zee or are you doing it for them?

    We, together with the Zee team, are helping in curation of what Zee is doing, which is the Mindspace conference. So Mindspace is happening at Melt, but it is Zee’s property. We are helping in the curation of speakers.

     

    In case of a dispute, who takes the final call?

    We argue it out  and a decision is taken. But we are very clear that Melt cannot be a platform where the content is not right for the audience. In terms of content for that audience, we take the final call.

     

    So, what if a partner decides to get a certain speaker or a certain panel and you say sorry, that doesn’t work…

    No, it doesn’t work that way. We’ve had one partner who said no, I’m willing to come on board and I want this hall blocked for half a day to conduct a session. We didn’t feel it was right for the audience since it was more of a sales speech for their own business. So we didn’t accept it.

     

    Was this partner paying you?

    Yes.

     

    And you didn’t take it?

    We didn’t take it.

     

    I thought you were a smart Marwari businessman?

    I am, but I have to look at it long-term, because if people are not happy about something, I will have a problem next year. I’d rather have a problem this year than have one next year.

     

    I’ve also heard stories where you’ve had partners or sponsors wanting a speaker slot and you said no. You told another partner that its logo wasn’t creative enough and such. How do you manage to get away with all of this?

    I don’t think it’s a matter of getting away with it. It’s a matter of convincing the other person that what we’re trying to tell you, is good for you. Designyatra is a design conference, Melt is a creative conference. You cannot tamper with the overall look-and-feel visually. It’s a creative conference and if you mess up your own creative output, you’ll become a big joke.

     

    But creativity is subjective right? What seems creative to you could appear tacky to somebody else. How do you manage to convince others about that?

    The convincing point has to do with how I can make sure you get the value that you want to out of this event. Am I making sure you’re seen at all the right places? I can make your logo smaller or bigger and make sure that people engage with your brand in different ways.

     

    Sirji, last year at the Kyoorius Awards, even though Colors was the sponsor, it did not even get any standees…

    Oh, come on! There were standees outside.

     

    Shouldn’t they have been inside the hall?

    There were screens inside with the branding. The standees mess up the décor.

     

    But aren’t all these things a given in sponsorship deals?

    And how much does this spoil the décor of the place? You go to an event, you’ll see some 10 standees on one side in small hall and 10 standees on another side. These are creative awards and you can’t not be creative about your own place. You mess it up because you have 10 sponsors, five from the same industry, all wanting their standees.

     

    And we don’t allow them to bring their own standees, we ask them to send the art work, we print the standees. We make sure that all standees are of uniform size and placed in a way that catches the eyes of everybody who walks in, but not by making it like 40 standees. Even four standees can do the same job, you just have to be creative about it.

     

    It appears you’ve managed to convince people about it.

    Yeah.

     

    By the end of the day, repeat sponsors is an indicator of the fact that they are getting their RoI.

    We’ve always had repeat sponsors. I haven’t seen any time any of my sponsors walk away with a minimum of two years, but mostly all have been there for three years.

     

    Back to Melt, if I were to attend it on May 21 and 22, what would be my takeaways?

    First, irrespective of whether you’re from a creative or planning background, there is something or the other happening that you can attend. At Melt, we have four pillars — learning, showcase, celebration and networking. We are curating things around these four pillars so that you are able to have exposure to all of these four pillars during your time at Melt. You should feel, at the end of either the first or the second day that the event was worth your while.

     

    Will Melt move to other cities or will it stay in Mumbai?

    One of the reasons we didn’t call it Mumbai Fest or something is that we don’t want to tie it down to any one city. For instance, it could go to Delhi next year,. I think for us, the two good locations are Mumbai and Delhi. There’s a huge gap in the way events happen in Delhi. There’s nothing happening in Delhi largely, so we are looking at either taking Melt to Delhi next year, or alternatively, doing another version of Melt in Delhi after six months. It may not be as large as what we are doing here, but will be similar.

     

    There is much anticipation and expectations from Melt. Is that a good position to be in or are you worried about meeting all the expectations?

    I think it’s a position that one always should be in and that becomes the driver to ensure that you meet as much as possible the expectations of the audience. One cannot satisfy 100% of the people 100% of the time but if the majority of the audience come back saying that they benefitted from being at Melt, we would have achieved our expectations. And for the reminder – thats feedback and we learn more from this and be better the next time around.

     

    Does the absence of some key agencies or decision of some adpersons to stay away upset you?

    In the larger scheme of things: not really. The industry is not defined by agencies – rather by the talent. This is our focus. However looking at how the future globally is going to be built on co-creation, co-existence, collaboration, etc – then yes to certain extent – our objective is to be inclusive and we’re sure to work with them and have them with us in the near future. The fundamental question one should ask always with programmes and initiatives like this is: Is it Good for the Industry? And I’m sure the answer is a resounding yes.

     

    A word to those who are undecided and can still register on what they can expect?

    There is a fear in the minds of the people in the marketing communication industry today – am I still relevant? The marketing communication industry is changing furiously and those who do not keep in touch with the changing landscape will face issues where the application of their particular skills can become redundant. Melt helps answers the big question to all stakeholders. Given this, I would say that it’s essential to be in touch with what is relevant today and that means – Be At Melt!

     

    A much shorter version of this appeared in dna of brands on April 27. This interview has been updated with a fresh set of questions asked yesterday (May 19)

     

     

     

  • … and get worked up, says CVL Srinivas, CEO,GroupM South Asia, who has been actively with both events.

    Don’t compare Goafest & Melt..

     

    Media agency heads have always played a key role in India’s growing media services industry. GroupM, the holding arm of a clutch of agencies owned by WPP, has been on the forefront over the years, with CVL Srinivas, CEO – South Asia, now doing that in a quiet, definitive way. So while we were not surprised when Mr Srinivas was actively associated with Goafest, we wondered whether all was well in the AAAI when we first heard that he had virtually turned co-organiser of Melt, a two-day festival of creativity being organised by Kyoorius on May 21 and 22. Here, in an interview with Pradyuman Maheshwari, Mr Srinivas talks about why GroupM supports multiple trade events and the ‘tu tu, main main’ between the supporters of Goafest and Kyoorius…

     

    You answered this question when Melt was being announced, but given that it is happening now, one would like to hear it from you again: How is it that GroupM and you personally are as actively involved with Goafest and the Abby as you are with Kyoorius Melt?

     

    At GroupM, we try to support as many initiatives as our bandwidth permits. Apart from Goafest over the years, and Melt2015, we have been supporting a host of events, be it MMA, Social Media Week or supporting organisations such as IAA. We believe in doing our bit to shape the market and help the industry evolve. One of our biggest challenges as an industry is to attract talent. We see all these events as having a role to play in keeping our industry exciting and attractive for young talent. For us, it has never been a case of either/or (with regard to the events). Having said that, I must confess that if at all we do not support any particular event, it will be more because of time and bandwidth constraints than anything else.

     

    When we first heard that GroupM was actively associated with Melt, our response was one of disbelief. Did this [Kyoorius] in any way impact your association with that [Goafest]?

     

    We have supported Goafest over the years and even this year, be it with speakers, designing the event, or with sponsorships. We continue to send the maximum number of award entries and among the highest number of delegates. When Melt came to us as an opportunity, we found the format interesting. Coincidentally, it came at a time we ourselves were driving a few programmes internally and externally around creativity in technology and media. We felt this would be a great platform for us to energise our teams and learn from the experts who will be taking part.

     

    I know it’s early for you to make a forecast, but what’s your sense on how Melt will turn out?

     

    We have a great line up of speakers and good buzz around the event. Considering it’s the first such event being held in Mumbai, I am sure it will pick up momentum as we go along.

     

    You were at the Kyoorius Awards last year giving away some of the awards, and you were also present at the Goafest Abbys both last year and this year. What, according to you, would be the key differentiators?

     

    Each awards event has its own flavour. There isn’t any need to compare the two and get worked up. Goafest is clearly an industry event, since industry bodies are behind it. Kyoorius awards is run independently. Just to clarify, GroupM has no role in the awards; we are only partnering on Melt.

     

    A slew of media agencies seem to have no problem with any of the awards shows, or even with each other. Why do you think creative agencies have problems with participating in awards shows?

     

    I am not very sure!!

     

    Even agencies from the WPP group have stayed away.

    Well, GroupM hasn’t.

     

    We may not hear it said out loud, but there is a clear ‘tu tu main main’ between Goafest and Melt/Kyoorius Awards. What would you say to the naysayers from either camp?

     

    It’s better to live and let live and not criticise either of them.

     

    And to all those in the industry who may not have made up their minds yet: Since you are one of the co-organisers, why should they register and attend Melt?

     

    It’s an event that combines advertising, media, digital, marketing and technology. In the real world, each of these areas is merging into the other. Melt is bringing alive this phenomenon in a very interesting way.

     

    A version of this first appeared in dna of brands dated May 18, 2015

     

  • GroupM is a knowledge partner at Zee Melt 2015

    Kyoorius announces partner events at Melt 2015

    By A Correspondent

     

    As MELT 2015 approaches, the two-day festival is shaping up with a packed schedule of events including conferences, seminars, workshops, showcases, exhibitions and installations catering to a variety of audiences and disciplines.

     

    Rajesh Kejriwal

    Rajesh Kejriwal, Founder CEO, Kyoorius said, “With MELT 2015, we’re pioneering an exciting new model where our partners co-curate content with us. Together, we have created opportunities to learn and interact in myriad ways, always keeping our partners’ brand goals and vision in mind. MELT 2015 is a chance for them to showcase what they do best.”

     

    The HT Osmosis Conference on 21st May offers insights into advertising as it exists today and a glimpse into what it could be in the future. Speakers include Chris Sanderson (Future Laboratory), Daniele Fiandaca (Creative Social), Bo Hellberg (Brave and HeyHuman) and Hugh Macleod (Gaping Void).

     

    GroupM is a knowledge partner at Zee Melt 2015. Besides powering the event with international speakers, workshops and seminars, GroupM agencies are also showcasing new technology in advertising at ‘FutureReady’ in the Hall of Knowledge. Participants of MELT can expect to see the Loop Room by Mindshare, Moribus- the Behavioral Economics Lab by Maxus, great global work by Mediacom and MECFresh by MEC Global.

     

    Industry stalwarts will battle out the question of whether mobile has taken over TV as the default screen for viewers, at the IAA Debate on 21st May.

     

    Kinetic Future Citizens on 21st May, is a series of seminars that looks at how brands can connect, entertain and understand consumers of the future.

     

    ZEE MindSpace on 22nd May, promises to be a stimulating and eye-opening conference for industry leaders to discuss, debate and reflect on issues and challenges facing the industry. Speakers include Sir Martin Sorrell (WPP), Tom Goodwin (Havas Media), Adam Ostrow (Mashable) and Joshua Black (GroupM).

     

    YouTube takes over the Hall of Vision at Nehru Centre with a series of presentations hosted by YouTube India’s Satya Raghavan along with a select group of YouTube Creators will go in-depth into developing a successful YouTube strategy for brands and creators. Delegates can sign up for a one-on-one consultation with a YouTube expert on how to develop compelling online content.

     

    Metalworks by Maxus helps brands explore the next frontier with creative technology in a series of talks and workshops on both days, designed to help companies generate and execute those really ‘out-there’ ideas.

     

    Madhouse India presents a Madhouse Mobile Masterclass with renowned mobile marketing consultant Tomi Ahonen. This invite-only workshop for brand managers explores mobile-first branding.

     

    Experienced D&AD Trainers Bo Hellberg of Brave and HeyHuman, and Alex Lampe of A+B Studio will conduct hands-on workshops on branding and idea generation.

     

    Hyper Island Master Class Speaker Daniele Fiandaca will lead two workshops discussing the most disruptive trends in digital and the challenges that the changing nature of work holds for modern creatives.

     

    iStock  & Happy Finish have collaborated to create bespoke workshops at MELT 2015. Delegates can learn how to bring a powerful campaign to life with the right imaging tools.

     

    The Other Bookstore will display its extensive collection of design and advertising books and publications.

     

    Augmented reality is one of the hottest technology trends at the moment. Happy Finish’s Global Chairman Stuart Waplington will take delegates behind the lens to create stunning 360-degree visual experiences on screen. A host of augmented and virtual reality tools will also be on display at Nehru Centre during the festival.

     

  • MELT 2015 is a 2-day festival of creativity for the advertising, marketing, media, digital and emerging technologies, developed by Kyoorius in partnership with Zee, GroupM and D&AD

    Kyoorius announces speaker lineup for MELT:2015

    By A Correspondent

     

    Kyoorius has announced the launch of readytomelt.com, a dedicated website for its upcoming festival, MELT: 2015. The site boasts a full lineup of speakers from all over the world, spanning a variety of events throughout the two days.

     

    MELT 2015 is a 2-day festival of creativity for the advertising, marketing, media, digital and emerging technologies, developed by Kyoorius in partnership with Zee, GroupM and D&AD. Each day offers a variety of formats, including conferences, installations, seminars and workshops, which will take place simultaneously at Nehru Centre and DOME @ NSCI, SVP Stadium in Mumbai.

     

    Day 1 of MELT:2015, will feature HT Osmosis, a creative conference curated for advertising and creative professionals. Speakers include Chris Sanderson – Founder, The Future Laboratory, Dylan Berg – Lead Creative, 72andSunny, Huib van Bockel – Founder, The Social Brand and Daniele Fiandaca – Creative Social.

     

    Zee Mindspace, a day-long conference on 22nd May, has been developed specifically for marketing and media professionals. Speakers include Tom Goodwin – Head of Strategy & Innovation, Havas Media, Adam Ostrow, Chief Strategy Officer, Mashable, Sir Martin Sorrell – CEO, WPP, and Parminder Singh – Managing Director, Twitter SE Asia/India/MENA.

     

    A series of workshops and seminars will be conducted across the two days on topics such as mobile marketing, digital strategy, brand experiences, branded content, prototyping ideas, sonic branding, youth marketing, and photography, by the likes of D&AD, The Partners, FITCH, Getty Images, Mindshare, Metalworks, Kinetic, Happy Finish, and more.

     

    FUTURE Tense is another series of seminars focusing on emerging trends and innovations in technology, media and digital. Topics to be explored will include wearable technology, digital storytelling, augmented reality, big data and social media.

     

    Rajesh Kejriwal

    Rajesh Kejriwal, Founder CEO of Kyoorius, said, “MELT has been conceptualized to help advertising, media, digital and marketing professionals learn – through lectures, discussions, case studies and workshops – how to marry their inherent skills and talent with emerging technologies.

     

    Tickets have been priced at INR 5,000 for one day and INR 8000 for both days. Online registrations will be open from Friday, May 8, 2015.

     

  • Last year, the Kyoorius Awards surprised us with scale and style and it promises to be much bigger this year, writes Sanjeev Kotnala

    Sanjeev Kotnala: Kyoorius: Awarding the Work, not the Organisation or the Individual

    By Sanjeev Kotnala

     

    I like the way Kyoorius Awards has been shaping up. The team behind it is doing everything possible to build it as a more relevant and engaging platform for the Industry. Rajesh Kejriwal definitely has a good team and counsel of  friends surrounding him.

     

    I am impressed the way the entries have increased and with the Jury process. Last Saturday, I made a small detour to Nehru Centre where I caught up with Rajesh and saw the Jury in action. I liked what I saw. I thank Chaitanya for taking me through the iPad-based jury app that is making the process easier and smoother.  There is a helluva lot of backend work done that now allows the team control process control. I do hope we will see a much wider cross-section of the fraternity at the award show towards the end of the month.

     

    Communication solutions, campaigns are a result of teamwork and this thought finds echo in the awards. At Kyoorius, it’s work that is awarded and not the agency, client or the production involved in it. Let me clarify.  It recognises and awards every one listed in the credits for an awarded entry. And any and all of them can be on the stage to collect the Elephant. Later, if desired, every one of them can order their own Elephants. In addition to being part of the reception or the conference room ego wall, many replicas find their way to cabins and cubicles. Having your personal Elephant is such a pleasure.

     

    Behind the scene, the team has been working to enhance the industry interaction. I am told that there were instances when the jury has changed the category of the entry, where Team Kyoorius called to suggest entering a work in more categories. Much before the jury meet work been scanned and doubtful case rechecked.

     

    This year the awards have expanded in their approach. On May 21-22, Kyoorius Melt will be held at Nehru Centre. It is a highly relevant format affordable to all organisations and self-driven professionals. A space where the sponsoring brand will be interacting with the advertising- marketing professionals in tailor-made seminars. I personally am a firm believe that if the organising body can take care of the sponsor need by creating such relevant opportunities, they will in some time will have no need to ran annual marathons chasing sponsors.

     

    The award on May 22 will be held at NSCI stadium. Last year, it pleasantly surprised us with scale and style and it promises to be much bigger this year.

     

    Sanjeev Kotnala is Founder and Head Catalyst at Intradia. He believes the best way forward for an organisation is to enhance its interanal team’s potential and capabilities instead of depending on external resources. He is a Management, Marketing and Brand consultant and conducts specialised workshops in the area of IDEATION (Harvest and Liberate) and Innovation (InNoWait). To contact email sanjeev@intradia.in  or tweet at s_kotnala visit www.intradia.in  www.sanjeevkotnala.com.

     

  • Next week, all jury members for the Advertising & Digital Awards will gather in Mumbai-India to review, discuss and elect the best

    Kyoorius Awards gets 1419 entries across ad & digital

    By A Correspondent

     

    The final tally at the 2015 Kyoorius Advertising & Digital Awards has been revealed. 1419 entries have been submitted by Indian agencies and studios, at the second session of the Kyoorius Advertising & Digital Awards. This is a jump of over 40 per cent from last year’s total tally of 988 entries from Advertising & Digital Awards.

     

    Participating agencies include DDB Mudra, Ogilvy & Mather, Madison Group, Grey Worldwide, Contract Advertising, Creativeland Asia, Scarecrow Communication, Linen Advertising, Itsa Brand Solutions, Webchutney, Isobar, Rediffusion Y&R, Ideas@Work and BBH, to name a few.

     

    Rajesh Kejriwal

    Rajesh Kejriwal, Founder CEO of Kyoorius said, “This number has been very encouraging, and a sign of acceptance by the industry. Kyoorius thanks all agencies for their support. We look forward to a packed jury session next week as these entries battle it out for Blue and Black Elephants.”

     

    Next week, all jury members for the Advertising & Digital Awards will gather in Mumbai-India to review, discuss and elect the best of the best over an intensive four-day session. To make the judging process as transparent and open as possible, members from the industry are invited to see the jury in action at Nehru Centre from 29th April to 1st May. This is amongst the very few open to public jury sessions around the globe.

     

    Visitors can come in and watch the jury debate the entries, checkout some of the best in Indian creativity and attend four FYIdays conducted by the jury members themselves. This promises to be a source of inspiration for the young blood in the industry as they can witness in person the debates on how juries think, why some works are voted and why some do lose out in the end.

     

  • The 2015 Kyoorius Advertising & Digital Awards jury sessions will take place from 29th April until 2nd May at Indian School of Design & Innovation

    Kyoorius announces Jury Tours and FYIdays for awards

    By A Correspondent

     

    Kyoorius, in association with D&AD, announced that the 2015 Kyoorius Advertising & Digital Awards jury sessions will be open to the public. Kyoorius will offer jury tours from 29th April to 1st May, and creative professionals also have the opportunity to interact and learn from the jury members, through a series of Kyoorius FYIdays which will also be held over the three days.

     

    The 2015 Kyoorius Advertising & Digital Awards jury sessions will take place from 29th April until 2nd May at Indian School of Design & Innovation at Lower Parel in Mumbai. Unlike other awards shows, all jury members gather in Mumbai to review, discuss and recognize the best work entered over an intensive session. Last year, Kyoorius opened its doors to professionals, media and the community at large to observe jury members debate over entries as well as peruse some of the most cutting edge work in advertising and digital produced. This year, they have continued the tradition once again and made the sessions more interactive through the Kyoorius FYIdays.

     

    Jury tours will be offered at 10am, 2.30pm and 5.30pm on 29th April, 30th April and 1st May. Kyoorius FYIdays are led by specialist speakers on a defined subject as a series of seminars, workshops or training sessions. With a limited attendance of 80 people — Kyoorius FYIday becomes a perfect platform to interact more directly with the speaker, industry leaders, and peers.

     

    There will be five FYIday sessions, the schedule is as follows:

     

    29th April Day1

    9 – 945am: Tim Doherty – Chief Creative Officer, Isobar China

    6 – 645pm: Vicki Maguire – Deputy Executive Creative Director, Grey London

     

    30th April Day 2

    6 – 645pm: Andy Sandoz – Creative Partner, Havas Work Club & Deputy President, D&AD

     

    1st May Day 3

    9 – 945am: Andy Greenaway – Executive Creative Director, SapientNitro APAC

    6 – 645pm: Tim Malbon – Co-Founder, Made By Many

     

    Rajesh Kejriwal, Founder CEO of Kyoorius, said, “Kyoorius and D&AD are committed to providing the Indian creative community a completely neutral and transparent platform. These tours allow anyone to observe exactly what happens at the Kyoorius Awards jury sessions and be a part of the action.

     

    At the same time, we strive to create opportunities to inform and stimulate local talent. This year we’ve introduced a series of FYIdays conducted by our Advertising & Digital Awards jury members – a chance to meet and interact with some of the most respected creative minds in the world. These sessions are completely free to attend and I encourage everyone to sign up.”

     

  • In its second year, Kyoorius Advertising and Digital awards introduced a series of new categories

    Entry deadline extended for Kyoorius Advertising and Digital awards

    By A Correspondent

     

    Kyoorius, in association with D&AD has extended the deadline for the entries to the Kyoorius Advertising and Digital Awards 2015 to Friday, April 17th, 2015.

     

    In its second year, Kyoorius Advertising and Digital awards introduced a series of new categories that include Branded Film Content & Entertainment, TV Cinema & Title Sequences, Show Programme Promotion, and Tactical Advertising for Press & Film. Acknowledging last year’s Design for Good category, Kyoorius has created Advertising for Good, to recognize campaigns and movements aimed at promoting social awareness.

     

    The jury session for both, the advertising and digital categories will be held simultaneously over a three-day intensive session, which will be open to the public. Top creative minds from international, national and regional agencies will come together to discuss and review the best talent, which will be announced at the Kyoorius Advertising and Digital awards at the culmination of MELT 2015.

     

  • Melt-ing is the preserve of Goafest, industrypersons say. Unique alliance struck between Pratap Bose & Rajesh Kejriwal at a party late last year

    Kyoorius to partner Goafest?

     

    By Noor Singapuria

     

    Is the Kyoorius Melt Fest mulling a move to be part of Goafest?

     

    The annual extravaganza organised by the Advertising Agencies Association of India and the Advertising Club may have taken a decision to embrace Kyoorius Melt, the all-new festival of creativity that was announced by paper magnate-turned-media baron Rajesh Kejriwal yesterday.

     

    The idea reportedly came from a veteran advertising professional who has requested anonymity. His view: “When I first heard about an adfest called ‘Melt’, I thought it’s happening as part of Goafest. After all, in Goafest despite the beer and the babes and the beaches, you melt in Goa,” he said adding:  “Whether you are walking around in hardly anything or if you are wearing a black or green kurta like your boss, it’s damn hot.”

     

    According to the grapevine, the first talks happened at a party held late last year in New Delhi. As it happened, Advertising Club President Pratap Bose and Rajesh Kejriwal were standing at the bar. And after drinks were served to them, in a classic case of cigarette-lighting diplomacy, Kejriwal lit Bose’s cigarette, followed by his own and they got talking.

     

    Bose appreciated the gesture, a person close to the development told this writer. “This is the ultimate sign of humility in a man-to-man relationship,” she said referring to lighting of the cigarette. Plus for Goafest and the Abby and Kyoorius, it will be a win-win.

     

    It is learnt that Kejriwal is keen on organising the fest in January, just before the Republic Day. The weather is nice with a gentle breeze blowing over the Mandovi and the Arabian Sea. What grabbed the deal was the luxurious transportation on offer. “We are in discussions with a luxury cruise liner like QE3. The idea is to get everyone to celebrate the fest in Goa and then let it culminate in a cruise ride from Goa to Mumbai.”

     

    It is learnt that the original idea was to have the Creative Abby on the cruise, but then the security committee suggested that there is a risk. If an agency doesn’t win a coveted Abby, the NCD may want to dump himself or herself in the Arabian Sea. We don’t want all of this so our Awards Security Committee has suggested that you should conduct the awards inhouse. On his part, Kejriwal liked the fact that like him the Goafest folks also want to do their bit for the fraternity. “Right from the time the shortlists are announced, we now keep available a large number of shrinks. This year, we have tied up with a leading mental health hospital in South India. They will supply psychiatrists and counsellors  because people get awfully depressed and then mouth all types of expletives,” a committee member told MxMIndia. This is our way of giving back to the community. Click here to read the rest of this report.

     

  • This year, the Kyoorius Advertising & Digital Awards has introduced a series of new categories that acknowledge emerging and under-recognised areas in advertising and digital communication

    Kyoorius announces call for entries for 2015 Kyoorius Advertising & Digital Awards

    By A Correspondent

     

    Entries to the 2015 Kyoorius Advertising & Digital Awards will be announced open on 2nd March 2015.

     

    This year, the Kyoorius Advertising & Digital Awards introduce a series of new categories that acknowledge emerging and under-recognised areas in advertising and digital communication. These include Branded Film Content & Entertainment, TV Cinema & Title Sequences, Show Programme Promotion, and Tactical Advertising for Press & Film. Recognizing the popularity of last year’s Design for Good category, Kyoorius has created Advertising for Good, to recognize campaigns and movements aimed at promoting social awareness.

     

    Kyoorius also revealed the jury for the 2015 Advertising & Digital Awards. These include a diverse mix of the top creative minds from international, regional and Indian agencies. Voting is always done in private, never by a show of hands, and unlike other advertising awards, all jury members gather in India to review, discuss and elect the best of the best over an intensive three-day session in Mumbai which will be open to the public.

     

    Advertising

    Jury Foreman: Nils Leonard – Chairman & Chief Creative Officer, GREY London

    Andy Greenaway – Executive Creative Director, SapientNitro APAC

    Arun Iyer – National Creative Director, Lowe Lintas & Partners

    Bobby Pawar – Director, Chief Creative Officer, Publicis South Asia

    Joji Jacob – Group Executive Creative Director, DDB Group Singapore

    Juhi Kalia – – Executive Creative Director, JWT Singapore

    Malvika Mehra – National Creative Director & Executive Vice President, GREY India

    Nik Studzinski – Executive Creative Director, Droga5

    Rajiv Rao – National Creative Director, Ogilvy & Mather India

     

    Digital

    Jury Foreman: Andy Sandoz – Creative Partner, Havas Work Club / Deputy President of D&AD

    Kunal Jeswani – Chief Executive Officer, Ogilvy & Mather India

    Melanie Clancy – Creative Director, BBDO Proximity Singapore

    Tim Doherty – Chief Creative Officer, Isobar China

    Vassilios Alexiou – Creative Partner, DARE

     

    Rajesh Kejriwal

    Rajesh Kejriwal, Founder CEO of Kyoorius, commented: “The Kyoorius Awards recognize the wealth of talent that exists in the country. Last year we were overwhelmed by the support from the creative communications and digital industries. In 2014, the Kyoorius Awards received 2131 entries across all categories. This year, we hope to see a wider participation, with many more innovative and impactful campaigns and ideas from all sizes of agencies and all corners of the country. Show us what creativity can do!”

     

  • The D&AD-backed Kyoorius Advertising, Digital and Design awards are announced. The 2014 Annual were launched with a gathering of creative and assorted media hands on Thursday evening

    Kyoorius announce ad awards on May 29, 2015. Designyatra September 10-12

    By A Correspondent

     

    Aagey, aagey dekho hota hai kya.” These were the famous first words from Rajesh Kejriwal when asked by host Suresh Venkat on how he plans to better the act after Kyoorius stormed the advertising awards scene this year. Mr Kejriwal is aware that all eyes are on how he would better the 2014 act next year. And he did that by announcing dates for the advertising, digital and design awards for 2015 at a gathering of creative and assorted media hands in Mumbai on Thursday evening.

     

    The Advertising and Digital Awards will happen on May 29, 2015 and the Call for Entries will go up on March 2 with entries closing on April 10. In the case of the Design Awards, the Awards Night will be September 12, the last day of the Kyoorius Designyatra and the Call for Entries will go up on May 4 and entries will close on June 5.

     

    All the Awards will continue to be backed by D&AD and the entry and jury processes followed will be that of D&AD.

     

    Meanwhile, along with the announcement of 2015 dates, Kyoorius also released the Annual featuring Black and Blue Elephant winning entries along with all in-book winners from the 2014 edition of the awards. Some 4000 copies of the Annual will be distributed corporates, creatives and all the art and design colleges and institutions in the country to “help stimulate future talent”.

     

    Tim Lindsay

    Said Tim Lindsay, CEO of D&AD, in a statement: “We approach the second Kyoorius Awards supported by D&AD with great optimism concerning the positive impact on the creative community in India. D&AD and Kyoorius are both dedicated to inspiring, celebrating and nurturing the next generation of creative talent – vital for the future health of our industry.”

     

    Details on Kyoorius Awards 2015: http://awards.kyoorius.com/images/KyooriusAwards_Categories_2015.pdf

     

     

  • Design dominated discussions on the second day of the Kyoorius weekend in Goa, although it was technically Day One of the mainstay Kyoorius Designyatra

    Follow your heart and do good: Message from Day 2 of #KDY14

    By Abhijeet Amonkar

     

    Design dominated discussions on the second day of the Kyoorius weekend in Goa, although it was technically Day One of the mainstay Kyoorius Designyatra. The theme was the same as the Digiyatra on Thursday: ‘What If’.

     

    The day began with Jonathan Ford, Founding Partner and Chief Creative Officer at Pearlfisher whose presentation centered mainly on good ideas. “The most impossible ideas are the ones that bring about the most change,” Ford said. To truly improve your brand, you need to learn to say no, and if you find yourself conflicted, you need to follow your heart.

     

    The next speakers were Simon Manchipp and David Law, both Executive Creative Officers of SomeOne. Their presentations were humorous, earning quite a few laughs from the audience. The secret to their success has been their ability to turn a brand, into a superbrand. The standout statement from their session (which was tweeted a number of times) was: “Most brands are so busy telling their stories, that they forget no one is interested!”

     

    Meanwhile, David Berman, founder of David Berman Communications, spoke about a topic close to his heart. He believes that all designers must set aside 10% of their weekly time, and devote it to design solutions for the problems that our world faces today. His main agenda was sustainability, something that will reduce the clutter in the world tremendously, in addition to making creative designs. “Don’t just do design, do good,” he said.

     

    Post lunch, Natasha Jen, Partner at the global firm Pentagram, took over on the topic “The price of Creativity”. Her real inspiration to designing things stems from Legp, and most of her designs have them incorporated in some way. Most of her projects are pro-bono, since she believes that money can never buy you happiness, and that designing should be done because you love it.  Her belief:  “Stay calm and keep hustling.”

     

    Next up was Kayonaaz Kalyanwala from Video Volunteers which creates a low-cost medium for people to voice and uncover stories, and make the common people take notice.

     

    The Designyatra ended with a bang, literally. Karsh Kale performing along with Abhijit Jejurikar and the kids from Dharavi Rocks. They were given a standing ovation at the end of their rousing performance, and it was a fitting and energetic end to the day. Famous last words from Kale: “It’s very easy to become static if you aren’t curious.”