Author: Team

Shaping the Future: How Media Trends Are Defining Generation Alpha

The influence of media trends on Generation Alpha is more pervasive than ever, with constant exposure to movies, social media, and popular series shaping their perceptions of beauty, success, and lifestyle. This generation, growing up in the digital age, faces immense pressure to conform to idealized standards presented by influencers and celebrities. Many young students feel the need to follow fashion trends, mimic online personalities, or adopt lifestyles that they see portrayed in the media. For those who choose not to engage in these trends, isolation and self-doubt can become significant concerns, impacting their emotional well-being.

This pressure can lead to deteriorating self-esteem, increased anxiety, and a constant sense of inadequacy. Psychologists emphasize the importance of fostering body positivity and encouraging individuality from a young age to combat these negative influences. By creating environments that promote self-acceptance and celebrating uniqueness, children can develop healthier perspectives on their self-worth. Schools, in collaboration with parents, can play a pivotal role in reducing this burden by encouraging open conversations about media influence and guiding students towards self-confidence.

Building a supportive environment requires active engagement from parents, educators, and child psychologists. Consulting professionals can offer strategies to help children navigate peer pressure and resist the urge to conform blindly. By focusing on mental resilience and instilling values of confidence and self-love, caregivers can ensure that children grow up secure in their true identities. A shift from comparison to self-assurance is vital to protect Generation Alpha from the detrimental effects of media-driven peer pressure.

Ms. Tirna Dasgupta, Counsellor at Ashok Hall Girls’ Higher Secondary School addresses the issue by highlighting how social media induces peer pressure through behavioral reinforcement and amplifies the desirability of certain lifestyles. “In modern times, social media offers a platform where people might make irrational assessments of others’ lives based on a few snapshots and reels, leading to unmindful comparisons and disturbed social relationships.” Ms. Dasgupta further emphasizes that students cope by confiding in parents or trusted adults, building a strong support system, and practicing assertiveness to resist peer pressure. She also notes that students aged 6-10 imitate trends for fun but are less affected by peer pressure compared to adolescents aged 11-14. Adolescents often prioritize fitting in over individuality, leading to anxiety, poor academic performance, and even self-harming behavior.

Counsellors Sarini Chatterjee and Moon Chakraborty from G. D. Birla Centre for Education echo similar sentiments. “Students often feel compelled to emulate popular trends from social media or entertainment to gain peer acceptance. Some cope by seeking parental guidance, limiting screen time, or redirecting focus to hobbies,” they explain. The desire to fit in can result in exclusion or ridicule for those who abstain from trends, causing stress and strained friendships.

Kaushiki Chakraborty, Counsellor of Mahadevi Birla Shishu Vihar also addresses peer pressure from social media trends through comprehensive life skills training. “The school conducts sessions on topics like social media addiction, Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), and responsible online behavior, helping students recognize and understand these challenges. Assertiveness training empowers students to make independent decisions, resisting pressures to conform to viral trends. Emphasis on digital detoxification helps students balance their online and offline lives. The school also organizes parent engagement programs to guide families in supporting the alpha generation. Activities like poster-making and two-day challenges to reduce social media use raise awareness, promote healthier habits, and equip students with the skills to manage media-driven pressures.”

Piston Technologies INC., The US – Headquartered Digital Payment Solutions Company, To Focus In India Market For Their Product Development

Kolkata, 13th January, 2025: Piston Technologies INC., a pioneering force in digital payment solutions, will be focussing in India market for product development and expanding their operation in USA. Combining cutting-edge QR-based payments technology with a commitment to streamlining transactions, Piston is redefining the payments landscape in USA.

Piston’s platform introduces ground breaking features designed to enhance the B2B payment experience. The QR-based technology enables direct and secure B2B transactions, eliminating the need for intermediaries, while offering significant cost savings by bypassing traditional payment processors. Additionally, the platform provides exclusive perks such as discounts, rewards, and fleet management tools to optimize operational efficiency. Advanced analytics ensure robust security, effectively preventing fraudulent activities. Inspired by India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) network and the widespread adoption of digital wallets, Piston merges innovative technology with real-world usability, creating a versatile solution for businesses.

Since its official launch in July 2024, Piston has achieved rapid expansion, reflecting strong market demand. The company has expanded its geographic reach to six states – California, Georgia, Texas, Florida, New York and Arkansas – and 35 cities. Piston has also seen a staggering 50% month-on-month growth rate, with an annualized payment processing volume of $10.4 million. This volume is projected to reach $50 million by March, 2025.

Piston has received a recent funding milestone, securing an early stage investment worth $1.2 Million from Pear.VC, a leading Silicon Valley-based early-stage venture capital firm. This capital infusion is being utilised to accelerate Piston’s market expansion, product development, and operational scaling.

“We will continue to build our fuel offering. We plan to utilize our upcoming round of funding for expansion across the entire US, with a focus on product development and research and development in India to offer new services for customers. We are working to experiment with adding credit facilities for fleets and allowing drivers to use PistonPay for personal purchases like meals and drinks,” said Mr Vikram Sekhon, CEO & Founder, Piston Technologies INC.

“While other cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru are known for start-ups, we chose Kolkata due to its rich technical talent pool, lower costs and higher retention rates. We are looking at building a team here which can align with our vision and help us move faster. This city offers the technical depth we need to build a global product. We are on a mission to transform the payment experience for businesses across the globe. Drawing inspiration from India’s thriving digital payment ecosystem, we are creating solutions that not only enhance efficiency but also redefine how businesses manage transactions,” said Mr Shivam Shah, COO & Founder, Piston Technologies INC.

By mid-2025, PistonPay aims to enable personal item purchases at gas stations and vendor payments, further extending its utility. The company plans to roll out full-scale operations across all 50 states and major cities by the end of 2025. Piston is also targeting $450 million in transaction value by December, 2025 and $2 billion within the next three years.

With a robust global presence, Piston operates engineering and operations out of Kolkata, India, while leadership, sales, and product development are based in the United States. This unique combination of operations from Kolkata and leadership in the US has been pivotal in driving Piston’s growth strategy. By 2026, Piston aims to grow its workforce to 500 employees worldwide, reflecting its commitment to innovation and operational excellence.

Radio City Launches RCSS Season 16 – A Nationwide Talent Hunt Across 39 Cities

Jan 13, 2025 Mumbai, India

In the heart of India’s vibrant music scene, a stage is set, and the spotlight is ready to shine on the next wave of singing sensations. Radio City, the nation’s leading radio network, proudly announces the launch of Season 16 of its legendary talent hunt, ‘Radio City Super Singer’ (RCSS). Over the years, RCSS has become more than just a competition; it’s a journey that transforms dreams into reality, uncovering voices that resonate with the soul of a nation.

RCSS National Creative

For 15 years, RCSS has been a beacon for aspiring singers, offering not just a platform but a lifeline to the music world and aspiring artists. It’s where stories begin, and dreams take their first steps toward fame. With Season 16’s theme, “Aapki Success ki shuruat humse hai”, a new chapter of discovery unfolds. From pre-hype activities generating nationwide buzz to auditions as gateways to dreams, the journey culminates in a grand finale, crowning new stars from across the country.

This season’s allure is further magnified by the return of the legendary Padma Shri Kailash Kher as the esteemed mentor. Having guided contestants for the last three seasons, his return is like the homecoming of a master storyteller, whose spiritual and film singing, composing, and lyrical expertise have inspired millions. Alongside him, the show’s legacy is built on the shoulders of musical giants—Daler Mehendi, Shahid Mallya, Jasmeet Jassi, Salim-Sulaiman, Aman Trikha, and Sajid-Wajid—who have all graced the stage as judges, turning RCSS into a cultural phenomenon.

Ashit Kukian, CEO of Radio City, remarked, “At Radio City, we are always focused and passionate about supporting novel ideas. Radio City Super Singer is not merely a competition but a platform that identifies and cherishes extraordinary talents from all corners of our diverse nation. As we move further towards the 16th edition, we invite all upcoming singers, regardless of their background or location, to step onto the stage and showcase their unique musical expressions. Together, let’s craft a melody that echoes with millions and inspires the NextGen musical rockstars.”

Radio City is expanding its singing talent hunt across 39 cities, blending on-air, digital, and on-ground activations. The campaign will feature dynamic Innova activations, canter activities, roadshows, auditions, and on-ground activities at R City mall, to maximize reach and engagement. Digital promotions will leverage Radio City’s strong online presence with a dedicated microsite, web banners, and active participation on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Additionally, RCSS will be spotlighted on Jio TV’s 24×7 TV RC Studio, featuring short videos and ads to captivate audiences nationwide.

Kailash Kher, reflecting on his ongoing role with Radio City Super Singer, expressed, “Being part of Radio City Super Singer over the past few seasons has been immensely gratifying. Watching budding talents grow into confident performers is truly rewarding. I am grateful for the opportunity to mentor these talented individuals once again. Guiding them on their journey to discover and showcase their musical abilities fills me with joy. Each season brings fresh energy and passion, and I’m excited to continue supporting and nurturing the next generation of stars on their musical voyage.”

Mr. Yogesh Mathur, Director of Sales and Marketing, Honda Motorcycle and Scooters India Pvt. Ltd., added, “Radio City has always been passionate about nurturing creativity and supporting fresh ideas. Radio City Super Singer isn’t just a contest—it’s a platform that discovers, uplifts, and celebrates outstanding talent from across our diverse nation. As we approach the 16th edition, we extend an invitation to budding singers everywhere to showcase their unique musical artistry. Let’s unite to craft unforgettable tunes that inspire the next generation of music legends.”

Demet Pictures Presents Star Face of India 2025: Unleashing the Stars Within

Jan 13, 2025 Bangalore, India

Demet Pictures, a renowned name in the entertainment industry, proudly announces Star Face of India 2025, an extraordinary platform designed to uncover and celebrate the artistic brilliance of individuals across India. This one-of-a-kind event, to be held at the iconic Prabhath KalaSambrama in Bangalore, promises to bring together talent from diverse backgrounds in the fields of acting, dancing, modelling, and singing.

Upcoming poster of Star Face of India 2025

A Career-Defining Opportunity
The winner of Star Face of India 2025 will be given the opportunity to work with Demet Pictures on future projects, including movies, web series, commercials, and music videos. This unparalleled chance ensures that the most promising talent is directly connected to the entertainment industry’s professional realm.

A Vision Beyond Competition

Unlike conventional talent shows, Star Face of India 2025 stands out for its mission-driven approach, focusing on providing equal opportunities to aspiring artists without any financial barriers. Participation in this transformative initiative is completely free, embodying the ethos of inclusivity, fairness, and accessibility.

“Talent should never be constrained by circumstances or the lack of resources,” said Amit Sharma, Producer of the show and Founder of Demet Pictures. “With Star Face of India 2025, we aim to offer a second chance to individuals who’ve faced challenges in pursuing their artistic dreams. This is more than a show-it’s a movement to empower talent and create real opportunities in the entertainment industry.”

A Stage for Limitless Talent

• The event will feature electrifying performances across four categories:
• Acting: An arena for showcasing emotional depth, dialogue delivery, and character portrayal.
• Dancing: A celebration of diverse dance forms, from classical to contemporary.
• Modelling: A glamorous runway to highlight confidence and charisma.
• Singing: A showcase of mesmerizing vocals and melodic expression.

The event will also host a live audience and an esteemed panel of judges, offering participants invaluable exposure and recognition.

Renowned entertainer Harsh Kumar, host of the event, shared his enthusiasm “This is not just an event; it’s a celebration of dreams and determination. It’s an honor to be part of a platform where talent truly takes center stage, without barriers or biases.”

Why Participate in Star Face of India 2025?

• Gateway to Opportunities: Standout performers may collaborate with Demet Pictures on upcoming projects, including movies, web series, commercials, and music videos.
• Free Participation: No fees, no hidden costs-just pure talent and opportunity.
• Recognition and Networking: Perform in front of industry experts, connect with like-minded artists, and gain visibility.
• Exciting Prizes: Awards, accolades, and opportunities await standout performers.

Bisleri International Launches ‘Bottles for Change’ Program in Kuvempu University, Shimoga, Karnataka

Jan 13, 2025 Shimoga, India

In a significant move towards promoting sustainability, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. extended its flagship initiative, ‘Bottles for Change,’ to Kuvempu University in Shimoga, Karnataka. The launch was marked by the signing of a Letter of Association (LOA) with the university, followed by awareness session on plastic waste management and installation of recycled plastic benches, bins at the campus.

Bisleri International launches ‘Bottles for Change’ program in Kuvempu University, Shimoga, Karnataka

This event was followed by a technical panel discussion on the theme, “Waste to Wealth” to understand the role of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and circularity in achieving the desired outcome. The discussion was chaired by Prof J. Narayana, Chairman, Dept of Environment Science. Government, Academicians and Industry leaders including Shri Mahesh K Patil, Chairman, Goa State Pollution Control Board, Dr Hina Kousar, Professor, Dept of Environment Science and Shri K. Ganesh, Director, Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. participated as the guest speakers in the panel. The discussion was moderated by Shri Sujeet Kumar Dongre, Chairman, Union Territory Level Expert Appraisal Committee for Dadar & Nagar Haveli, and Daman & Diu.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. K. Ganesh, Director, Sustainability & Corporate Affairs, Bisleri International Pvt Ltd, said, “Our partnership with Kuvempu University reflects the potential of young minds in driving sustainable change. At Bisleri, we are committed to being a plastic-neutral and water-positive company. Through this initiative, we aim to create a mass movement towards responsible plastic waste disposal and management.”

Adding to this Dr Yogendra K, Professor, Department of Environmental Science, Kuvempu University said, “Our collaboration with Bisleri is directed towards instilling sustainable values in our youth. These young minds are the future leaders who will shape our world for the generations to come. We are thankful to Bisleri for making us a part of their Greener Promise.”

Bisleri International as part of the ‘Bisleri Greener Promise’ campaign, aims to install 1,000 benches made from recycled plastic at prominent locations across India. The organization remains steadfast in its commitment to embedding sustainability in all its operations, driving growth through responsible business practices.

Reasons to Switch to OneScore’s Instant Loan App for Fast and Easy Borrowing

Jan 13, 2025 Pune, India

With the dawn of digital applications and the use of AI/ML in the loan approval process, it is both easy and quick to apply for a loan online through an instant loan app. The OneScore App stands out when it comes to personal loan applications as it combines the ability to check one’s creditworthiness and get access to funds instantly – all from one simple, intuitive mobile application.

OneScore: Instant Personal Loan App

By supporting borrowers in the effort to get approval on loans and address their financial health, the OneScore App is transforming the personal loan segment. Here’s an in-depth look into how OneScore makes applying for a personal loan online much more convenient.

Easy Credit Check

Before giving a stamp of approval, lenders run multiple checks of eligibility to ensure that the borrower can afford to repay a loan on time. This is even more stringent in the case of unsecured loans, such as a personal loan, where the risk of financial loss is high. This is the reason why a high credit score plays an important role.

This score gives lenders the necessary information regarding the borrower’s credit health. With the OneScore App, borrowers can stay on top of their own creditworthiness by checking their score anytime. This helps them stay prepared for any unexpected situation or to improve their score for future credit needs.

With OneScore, consumers can get their credit reports for free and assess when and how much they can borrow. This gets the guessing game out of the way, giving them more clarity and confidence in their financial journey.

Score Planner

In case the score is insufficient, the next step is to work on improving the score before heading on to apply for a personal loan online. To streamline and speed up the journey towards a better credit score, the OneScore App gives borrowers smart and easy-to-use tips which are customised to their financial habits to help increase their credit score in the shortest time possible. This includes managing both credit cards and loans.

By seeing all their credit accounts listed under one roof and getting personalised suggestions, borrowers can easily reach the score they need. OneScore’s Score Planner facility helps them choose a tangible number and get there with the right financial moves.

Fraud Detection and Reporting

For many borrowers, low scores may be a result of fraud or a gap in reporting closed loan accounts by financial companies. OneScore makes this easier to detect by offering a clear picture of the number of credit score enquiries made using their PAN and the number of active loans and credit cards.

In case borrowers do not recognise any credit account in their name, they can take quick action to report the fraud to the credit bureau right away. The OneScore App provides an easy way to raise a dispute via its platform, so consumers are empowered to detect and report fraud or and suspicious activity.

Lifelong Support

Even with efficient use of credit cards and timely loan repayment, it requires discipline and patience to improve one’s credit score. It is also important for consumers to keep checking their score periodically.

By bringing credit scores from both CIBIL and Experian to borrowers’ fingertips, OneScore also gives them access to lifetime-free credit reports and insights. Armed with this information, consumers can work on the problem areas that are becoming a hurdle towards achieving their desired credit score.

Moreover, there are no membership fees or charges involved in generating a credit report. So applicants can check their score without stressing about its effect on their finances. By monitoring their score, borrowers can ensure that they are eligible for the best personal loan offer and can avoid rejection.

Swift Digital Application

Once the borrower has reached a good credit score, they don’t need to go elsewhere for the best loan offer. They have the convenience of choosing the OnePL facility on the same app to apply for a personal loan online of up to ₹5 lakhs through their smartphone.

The steps to apply for a OnePL are easy:

Tap on ‘Get Started’ on the OnePL banner (present on the homepage)

Select the desired loan amount up to ₹5 lakhs

Select the employment status from the given options

Select the range of monthly income

Wait for the perfect loan offer

Fast Approval and Disbursal

Thanks to the automated system, getting approval doesn’t take days. This makes it a reliable option to get quick financing when the borrower is short of funds and experiencing a time crunch. What’s more, there is no documentation involved, which further speeds up the process. After selecting the best offer and getting approved, funds are disbursal without any delays.

Best Loan Terms Based on Eligibility

OneScore is an instant loan app that bridges the borrowing gap, connecting borrowers with lenders and ensuring a smooth process. Based on the borrower’s credit profile, loan repayment and repayment capacity, they can find the lender with the most affordable interest rate and other loan terms.

Smart Planning

Even with a pocket-friendly interest rate, it’s crucial that borrowers choose a monthly amount that fits within their budget. To decide this, they need to select a suitable tenure. Choosing a longer tenure will reduce their monthly obligation but increase the overall payable amount. Similarly, a short tenure may increase the EMI burden, but borrowers can save money in the long term.

Keeping this in mind, it becomes imperative to choose a suitable EMI amount. The OneScore App also simplifies this task with an easy-to-use EMI calculator. By simply entering the loan terms, borrowers can forecast their EMI amount instantly and choose the ideal tenure in an informed manner.

7th Edition of Manipal Marathon to Focus on Technology in Fitness Unveils Promo Run to Encourage Marathon Enthusiasts

Jan 13, 2025  Bengaluru, India

Indian Cricketer Shreyanka Patil flagged off the run at 7.00 AM

For its 7th Edition Manipal Marathon embraces the theme “Innovation in Motion” with the tagline “Embracing Technology for Health and Fitness”

The highly anticipated 7th edition of Manipal Marathon was kicked off by Indian cricketer Shreyanka Patil today at 6.30 AM today at MAHE Bengaluru campus. The great Manipal Marathon 2025, which is scheduled for February 9, 2025, in Manipal Udupi district, is preceded by this event.

7th Edition of Manipal Marathon Focuses on Technology in Fitness unveils promo run to encourage marathon enthusiasts

Manipal Marathon has solidified its position as the biggest student organized marathon in India with over 20,000 participants from across the Nation and Globe. Manipal Marathon embraces the theme “Innovation in Motion” with the tagline “Embracing Technology for Health and Fitness”. This theme reflects the event’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology in promoting health and fitness.

The marathon routes certified internationally by the IAAF AIMS, will take participants through the breathtaking landscapes of Manipal and along the stunning Udupi coastline. It will not only offer an exhilarating race experience but will also host a grand carnival celebration post-run. Beyond the festivities, the event provides substantial prize money, drawing elite athletes and passionate runners alike.

“The Manipal Marathon is a testament to the power of health, fitness, and community spirit,” said Dr. Raghavendra Prabhu P, Deputy Registrar – MAHE Bengaluru Campus. The Manipal Marathon has developed into a legendary event in India’s marathon circuit. This marathon demonstrates how technology can improve our health and make running more enjoyable for everyone. The marathon is a way to inspire people towards good health and fitness that must be part of everyone’s life.

Indian cricket player Ms. Shreyanka Patil expressed her excitement at the unveiling, “I am quite thrilled to be part of such a phenomenal and inspiring Manipal Marathon 2025 that provides a platform for people from all walks of life to participate in this run with great spirits. Every athlete, need to run to stay healthy and this event skilfully combines wellness and technology.”

The highly anticipated 7th edition of Manipal Marathon was kicked off by Indian cricketer Shreyanka Patil on 12th January at MAHE Bengaluru campus

“The theme “Innovation in Motion” perfectly aligns with the evolving landscape of fitness,” said Mr. Ravindra Rai M. Managing Director & CEO of BOBCARD Limited, underscoring the significance of innovation in sports. Training, performance monitoring and injury prevention are all being greatly enhanced by technology. This marathon is a fantastic way to encourage the next generation to continue being active. My heartiest congratulations to MAHE for their commitment towards hosting this marathon year on year consistently which brings together thousands of people for a common cause.

Shika Shetty, Manager of the Visually Challenged Indian Cricket Team; Kiran Kumar, Senior Vice President of Marketing at UNext Learning Private Limited; Dr. Vinod C. Nayak, Secretary of the Sports Council at MAHE, Manipal; Ms. Anjana Chandran, Associate Director at Manipal Health Enterprises Pvt. Ltd.; along with other officials from the MAHE Bengaluru campus, were present at the event. More than fifty visually challenged participants took part in the Promo Run in a special category alongside 1,500 students and other marathon enthusiasts.