27, Oct 2023
Hyderabad gets ready to celebrate festivities with Amazon Xperience Arena
Hyderabad, 27th October,2023: Amazon.in announced that Telangana has shown remarkable growth witnessing 2x demand for televisions and an increase of more than 60% in 5G smartphones being sold during the festive period, making it one of the top-performing regions in the TV and Smartphone categories for Amazon India. Fueled by financial schemes such as no-cost EMI, the state is amongst the top regions that continue to see customers opting for premium smartphones and large-screen televisions.
Customers in Hyderabad also got a glimpse of Amazon Great Indian Festival 2023 at the Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad with the ‘Amazon Xperience Arena’ (AXA) on 26th October. This one-of-a-kind showcase gave media, influencers and customers a chance to experience their favourite brands and products while participating in fun engagements. Across the seven interactive zones at the event, customers competed to win exciting rewards and a chance to interact with their top brands across categories.
Commenting on the occasion, Ranjit Babu, Director, of Smartphones and Televisions, Amazon India said, “We’re thrilled to introduce the Amazon Xperience Arena to our customers in Hyderabad. The city of Nawabs is amongst the top-performing metros for the Smartphone and Television category. As the people of Telangana continue to shop for their favorite products during the festive season on India’s most preferred, trusted, and loved online marketplace, we’re humbled to see continued growth in the region. With the customer’s inclination increasing towards premium smartphones and televisions, we at Amazon India continue to provide attractive affordability options such as no-cost EMI, bank discounts, Apay rewards, cashback, and exchange offers, along with an array of the best-in-class products from all major brands.”
Here are some trends across Smartphones and television businesses observed on Amazon.in across Telangana and Hyderabad:
Smartphones
- 5G upgrades are on an upward trajectory: In Hyderabad, the share of 5G smartphones grew to over 65% in October 2023 during the festive period (vs 40%+ in 2022)
- Smartphone business experiencing significant growth: Double-digit growth has been witnessed across Hyderabad in the 10-20k smartphones driven by 4G to 5G upgrades
- Premiumization as a trend continues: The above 30k price segments have also seen double-digit growth due to affordability options such as No Cost EMI and Exchange offers
- Brand preference: During the ongoing Amazon Great Indian Festival 2023, top bestseller models across Hyderabad are iPhone 13, OnePlus Nord CE 3 lite 5G, iQOO Z7 Pro 5G, OnePlus 11R 5G, Samsung Galaxy M14 5G and Redmi 12 5G
Televisions
- Telangana has set a new record: In 2023, Telangana emerged as the fastest-growing market on Amazon India in Q3 2023 and consistently ranked #1 with Hyderabad being amongst the top 3 cities for TV sales pan India
- Demand for large screens on the rise: Customers are showing a stronger preference for 4K TVs. There has been a massive growth in the demand for large screens mostly 55 inches & above. QLED and OLED TVs have seen an exceptional growth of over 2x YoY in both Telangana and Hyderabad in 2023. One in three customers benefited from zero-interest EMI options provided on Amazon
- Brand preference: Sony, Samsung, and LG are the most preferred brands among customers in the region
Telangana is a key market and has played a vital role in Amazon’s growth in India. Amazon’s largest corporate building in the world is in Hyderabad, India. The Hyderabad Campus is Amazon’s first owned office building outside of the U.S. Over the years, Amazon has invested in creating a robust physical infrastructure across India and in Telangana. Today, Amazon has six large fulfilment centres and one sortation centre covering more than 1.75 lakh sq. ft. of processing area along with nearly 70 Amazon-owned and Partner Delivery Stations and more than 1800 ‘I Have Space’ stores. Amazon has close to 50,000 sellers from the state selling everything from apparels, sports goods, hosiery items, consumables, and a lot more on Amazon.in. These investments in infrastructure are helping sellers from Telangana deliver to customers from across the country and are also creating employment opportunities across the state.
Recently, Amazon.in announced ‘Extra Happiness Days’ – Co-powered by realme narzo. Customers shall have an opportunity to buy the latest products across categories from top brands with great deals and offers. Amazon Great Indian Festival – ‘Extra Happiness Days’ brings special deals and offers from sellers on the widest selection of Smartphones, Televisions, Gaming components, Large Appliances, Audio, Health and personal care products, Gourmet food, Baby products, and more. Customers will get special offers on a wide range of products from realme, Nvidia, Haier, Pedigree, Ferrero, Hershey’s, Pampers, JBL, and Gillette among others.
Amazon.in, in collaboration with Digit, has also introduced the “Smartphone Genie” product finder (Experience is live only for mobile app users), a new interactive widget aimed to simplify the way consumers make informed smartphone purchase decisions, ensuring they buy the right smartphone tailored to their unique needs. With the Smartphone Genie, finding the perfect phone becomes a breeze, thanks to a streamlined four-step process.
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- By Rabindra
27, Oct 2023
Ahmed bin Saud Al Qasimi inaugurates Ni Met Recycling, marking a milestone in the Emirate’s vision for a circular economy
Ras Al Khaimah, 27 October 2023: Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of Ras Al Khaimah’s Public Services Department, inaugurated the state-of-the-art stainless-steel and non-ferrous scrap recycling facility Ni Met Recycling.
Present at the ceremony were Anil Shah, Chairman and Managing Director of Ni Met Recycling, Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, RAKEZ Managing Director, and other senior officials from various entities, to witness the opening of the cutting-edge establishment. The facility boasts an investment of around AED 40 million and spans a vast area of 29,900 m2 within RAKEZ’s Al Ghail Industrial Zone.
Ni Met Recycling adopts a comprehensive approach to recycling, covering not only stainless steel but also ancillary metal scraps. With a primary focus on recycling stainless scrap, low and high nickel alloys, chrome, molybdenum, and various other recyclable metals, the company plays a pivotal role in sustainable resource utilisation. Their commitment to environmental responsibility extends to the global market, as the final recycled products find their way to numerous end-users, particularly in regions like India, Europe, and various Southeast Asian countries.
This commitment to sustainability goes hand in hand with Ni Met Recycling’s dedication to contributing significantly to Ras Al Khaimah’s and the UAE’s broader sustainability and environmental goals. The company’s vision aligns with the UAE Net Zero 2050 strategic initiative, emphasising the transition to a circular economy. In doing so, Ni Met Recycling not only benefits the global market but also plays a crucial role in contributing to the UAE’s ambitions for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future.
Mr Shah stated: “Ras Al Khaimah is witnessing rapid development; in such a short period of time, the Emirate, with the support of RAKEZ, has achieved remarkable progress and prosperity in this region. Ni Met Recycling is proud to be a part of this journey, contributing to the circular economy and aspiring to become one of the largest manufacturers in the region, producing quality products for export worldwide.”
“The decision to establish our recycling facility in Ras Al Khaimah was influenced by various factors, including the availability of large industrial plots and the streamlined support provided by RAKEZ. The efficient processes and timely issue resolution by the economic zone played a pivotal role in the swift establishment of Ni Met Recycling’s operations,” he added.
Ramy Jallad, RAKEZ Group CEO, said: “At RAKEZ, we are committed to fostering growth, innovation and sustainability. Ni Met Recycling’s inauguration in Ras Al Khaimah, coinciding with the UAE’s Year of Sustainability, and its preparations for hosting COP 28, is a clear testament to our shared vision and commitment to a sustainable and prosperous future. The company’s decision to establish its facility here in Ras Al Khaimah underscores the strategic advantages our emirate offers. We are genuinely excited about their long-term prospects and the potential they hold to significantly contribute to the continued growth of our region and its sustainability goals.”
With a vision to bolster the UAE’s green recovery, Ni Met Recycling is planning to expand its recycling capacity and explore the possibility of setting up a melt shop, which would lead to the production of stainless steel in Ras Al Khaimah — an opportunity that has the potential to revolutionise the region’s industrial landscape and contribute to enhancing its sustainability.
27, Oct 2023
HMD Global launches Nokia 105 Classic with Stylish design and UPI payments starting
27th October 2023, Mumbai, India – HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, today announces an exciting addition to its market-leading feature phone portfolio with the new Nokia 105 Classic. The phone comes with an inbuilt UPI application, combining the trusted reliability of Nokia phones with the convenience and accessibility of UPI, enabling users to securely and seamlessly perform UPI payment transactions even without a smartphone.
Nokia 105 Classic comes with an assured one-year replacement guarantee. Featuring wireless radio, incredible battery life, simplicity and accessible price points, the device offers the reassurance and reliability expected from a Nokia phone.
Ravi Kunwar, VP- India & APAC, HMD Global said “We are excited to launch an exciting upgrade to market-leading feature phone with the new Nokia 105 Classic, more relevant than ever with a stylish new design and the UPI feature. With the feature-packed Nokia 105 Classic, we strive to bridge the digital divide and enable financial access for all.”
Designed to Keep You Connected
Nokia 105 Classic has undergone rigorous durability testing to withstand even the toughest environments, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity no matter the circumstances. The carefully considered spacing between each button on the keymat makes it easy to dial and text, even in the dark.
Enhanced User Experience and Improved Audio
Nokia 105 Classic’s ergonomic design and compact shape are specially moulded to feel great in the hand and easily slip into your pocket when you’re on the go.
Battery for Days
Nokia 105 Classic is equipped with an 800mAh battery, providing extended standby time and allowing for uninterrupted conversations from sunrise to sunset.
Entertainment and Functionality
Nokia 105 Classic comes loaded with features designed to keep users entertained and productive. It offers a wireless FM radio, allowing users to listen to their favourite stations without the need for a headset.
Built to Last
Nokia understands the importance of durability, and each Nokia phone is meticulously tested to ensure it can withstand the challenges of daily use. The Nokia 105 Classic is no exception, built with passion and designed to deliver exceptional performance even in the most demanding situations.
Pricing and Availability
Nokia 105 will be available in India starting today in four variants Single SIM and Dual SIM, with & without charger respectively. The Nokia 105 is available in two colour options, Charcoal and Blue.
27, Oct 2023
Eveready & ZEE join hands for a first-of-its-kind Brand Collaboration
National, 26 October 2023: Eveready, a trusted name in the world of batteries has partnered with ZEE, India’s leading content company to promote its new range of batteries. As part of the brand collaboration, Eveready ULTIMA will feature prominently on ZEE’s popular and homegrown reality shows, including Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, Dance Bangla Dance, Dance Karnataka Dance, and Telugu medium I school. ZEE’s linear channels that are an integral part of the brand association are Zee TV, Zee Sarthak, Zee Tamil, Zee Marathi, Zee Bangla, Zee Kannada, and Zee Telugu.
Eveready ULTIMA will be showcased in reality shows, and the brand’s logo will be integrated into the shows’ set design, graphics, and on-screen promotions. The battery brand has also worked closely with ZEE to create custom content for the shows, such as sponsored segments and product challenges.
Commenting on this announcement, Mr. Anirban Banerjee, Senior Vice President and SBU Head (Batteries and Flashlights), Eveready Industries India Ltd., “We have recently unveiled our new and improved Ultima range of batteries supported by a 360 campaign ‘Khelenge Toh Sikhenge’. The campaign highlights that children in any family can learn valuable life lessons like caring, sharing, love, and equality when playing in daily life with battery-operated toys. Thus to keep the child’s play ongoing effortlessly, our new 400% longer lasting Ultima batteries are just perfect. Our collaboration with ZEE seamlessly aligns with the campaign’s objective and values, as majority of ZEE’s shows are packed with energy, fostering a blend of entertainment while actively nurturing the young talents. Eveready is committed towards its mission to empower the youth with the essential support they require for a brighter and more promising future, and our partnership with ZEE amplifies our ability to achieve this noble endeavour.”
Adding to this, Ms. Niti Kumar, COO – Starcom India said, “At Starcom, we believe that a successful product launch requires a powerful platform that maximises consumer engagement and brand visibility. Such a key communication pillar was vital to drive home Eveready’s new message. ZEE’s reality shows enjoy immense popularity among Indians, which makes it a strong channel for brand collaboration. Accordingly, we forged this first-of-its-kind strategic partnership, which not only introduces Eveready’s robust product offerings but also harnesses ZEE’s expansive reach across diverse regions, languages, and content formats.”
Eveready ULTIMA recently launched its campaign, ‘Kheloge Toh Bahut Kuch Seekhoge’, which highlights the exceptional longevity of Eveready ULTIMA batteries, perfectly suited to power the modern gadgets and appliances that have become an integral part of daily lives.
27, Oct 2023
Federal Bank and Avanti Finance to provide income generation loans
Bengaluru, 27th October 2023: Federal Bank, a leading Indian Bank, and Avanti Finance, a digital financial inclusion platform, have entered into a co-lending partnership to enable hassle-free, affordable credit access to rural un/underserved borrowers. Avanti’s hyper-flexible lending platform and expertise in leveraging a diverse on-ground partner network, combined with Federal Bank’s strong balance sheet and mission alignment, will enable this partnership to serve this segment of borrowers in more than 20 states across the country.
The partnership will enable the development of fit-for-purpose loan products that cater to the specific needs of underserved communities, promoting financial inclusion and supporting livelihood sustainability.
Harsh Dugar, Executive Director, Federal Bank said, “The Avanti partnership blends well with our inclusive banking initiatives, as well as our digital focus. Avanti’s unique business model combining a flexible lending platform with a curated nationwide partner network provides a great opportunity for us to serve customers across the country with small ticket loans that will help them enhance their incomes.”
Rahul Gupta, CEO, Avanti Finance said, “The co-lending partnership with Federal Bank is another big step for us in our mission to serve the credit needs of the next 100 million households in India. Federal Bank, with its strong orientation to digital financial products & commitment to financial inclusion is an ideal partner for us to build a scalable and impactful programme in rural areas. The programme has been launched in Odisha, Maharashtra and Bihar in the pilot phase with ambitious plans of scaling it pan-India and disbursing INR 500 crores annually benefitting over 100,000 households.”
The co-lending partnership between Avanti Finance and Federal Bank represents a significant step forward in financial inclusion in India. It leverages the strengths and expertise of both institutions to create a powerful synergy between a digital financial inclusion platform & a reputed Bank with a strong balance sheet that will make credit more accessible to underserved and unbanked populations. The collaboration will not only transform lives but also contribute to the economic growth and development of the nation.
27, Oct 2023
U GRO Capital Q2 and H1 FY24 results.
New Delhi, October 27, 2023: UGRO Capital, a DataTech NBFC and India’s largest Co-lender in the MSME segment, today announced its robust financial performance for the Second Quarter and Half Year ended 30 September 2023. The Company continued its growth momentum in the second quarter of FY24 with an AUM of INR 7,592 Cr (as of Sep 23), up 74% compared to Sep’22. This surge can be attributed to its strategic investments in distribution channels, expansive lender base, and a data-centric underwriting model, which together ensure consistent monthly disbursals of over INR 500 Cr.
Financially, UGRO Capital highlighted a Total Income of INR 472.0 Cr for H1’24, up 70% YoY, while the figure stood at INR 253.6 Cr for Q2’24, up 63% YoY and 16% QoQ. Furthermore, the PAT for H1’24 scaled up to INR 54.1 Cr, up 329% YoY, and was INR 28.9 Cr for Q2’24, indicating an increase of 448% YoY and 14% QoQ. The robust quarterly performance, alongside the optimal GNPA/NNPA metrics of 1.9%/1.1% on the total AUM, reiterates the sterling quality of UGRO’s portfolio, underscoring a well-structured risk management approach.
UGRO Capital’s distinctive ‘Lending as a Service’ approach combined with the strategic use of co-lending partnerships with off-book AUM accounting for 45% has significantly propelled this growth trajectory. Further solidifying its reputation in the sector, UGRO Capital’s proprietary underwriting model, GRO Score 3.0, has demonstrated its efficacy. This strategic model, along with collaborations with over 10 co-lending partners, 60 lenders, 45 fintechs, and 500 GRO partners, facilitates data-driven, tailored financial solutions for more than 59,000 MSMEs across India.
Brief Financial Snapshot
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Commenting on the results, Mr. Shachindra Nath, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of UGRO Capital said, “At UGRO Capital, we are committed to boosting India’s economic growth through the empowerment of small businesses. We envision building a large institution dedicated to small business financing, and this vision is closer to reality now more than ever. We have set ambitious goals for FY24, and through innovative financial strategies, dynamic collaborations, and our unwavering commitment to foster sustainable entrepreneurship, we’re strategically poised to meet these targets. As UGRO Capital strides towards enduring growth, it presents an attractive proposition for investors eyeing long-term value and robust returns.”
Key performance highlights for Q2’ and H1’FY24
- Growth, Expansion, and Portfolio quality
- AUM of INR 7,592 Cr as of Sep’23 (up 74% YoY and 12% QoQ)
- INR 2,506 Cr of Gross Loans originated in Q2’FY24 (up 52% YoY and 23% QoQ) and INR 4,543 Cr of Gross Loans originated in H1’FY24 (up 51% compared to H1’FY23).
- Total Income stood at INR 253.6 Cr for Q2’FY24 (up 63% YoY and 16% QoQ) and INR 472.0 Cr in H1’FY24 (up 70% compared to H1’FY23)
- Net Total Income stood at INR 148.2 Cr for Q2’FY24 (up 71% YoY and 18% QoQ) and INR 273.9 Cr in H1’FY24 (up 76% compared to H1’FY23)
- PBT increased to INR 40.8 Cr in Q2’FY24 (up 132% YoY and 14% QoQ) and INR 76.4 Cr in H1’FY24 (up 174% compared to H1’FY23)
- PAT increased to INR 28.9 Cr in Q2’FY24 (up 448% YoY and 14% QoQ) and INR 54.1 Cr in H1’FY24 (up 329% compared to H1’FY23)
- GNPA / NNPA as on Sep’23 stood at 9% /1.1% (as a % of Total AUM)
- Over 59,000 customers as of Sep’23
- 104 branches (as on Sep 23)
Liability and Liquidity Position
- The total lender count stood at 60 as of Sep 23
- Total Debt stood at INR 3,798 Cr as of Sep’23, and the overall debt-to-equity ratio was 2.8x
- Healthy capital position with CRAR of 24.84% (as of Sep 23)
27, Oct 2023
Auto Awards Season 3: Driving India’s Global Automotive Ambitions for 2030
Brace yourselves for the automotive event of the year as Auto Awards Season 3 by Zee Media makes its triumphant return!
Following the resounding success of Season 2, which attracted over 9 million enthusiastic users to the microsite and generated an astounding 22 million ad impressions, Season 3 is all set to celebrate the extraordinary journey of India’s automotive industry. This year’s overarching theme, ‘India’s Automotive Industry Set to Rise to Global Dominance by 2030’, encapsulates the industry’s remarkable evolution, the electrifying transition to electric vehicles (EVs), and the strategies shaping future growth. It will serve as a tribute to the unwavering spirit of individuals and organizations driving the industry forward and a formal recognition of the journey towards global leadership.
The Auto Awards Season 3 event is scheduled to take place on Monday 30th October 2023 in New Delhi, will be graced by Keynote Speaker – Mr. Dilip Chenoy, Chairman of Bharat Web3 Association and Former Secretary General of FICCI and will also be attended by Industry stalwarts. It is all set to ignite discussions on critical industry topics with panel discussions addressing the gravity of safety concerns and the pivotal role of electric vehicles (EVs) in shaping automotive trends.
The upcoming awards will also encompass the four-wheeler and two-wheeler award categories. For four-wheelers, the awards will recognize excellence across varied segments, such as mass-market facelifts, budget car designs, luxury car designs, SUVs, luxury cars, electric vehicles, luxury electric cars, high-tech cars, and the most trusted brand in the four-wheel category. Additionally, a spotlight will be cast on the most promising car of the year.
In the two-wheelers category, awards will also be presented for budget motorcycles, electric two-wheelers, outstanding scooters, premium motorcycles, and the most trusted two-wheeler brand, showcasing the breadth of innovation in the Indian automotive industry. The winners will be selected based on the highest votes received online and through a rigorous evaluation done by eminent jury members- Garima Avatar- Athlete, Extreme rally driver, Ranojoy Mukerji – Veteran Auto Journalist, Former SIAM DY Director and Simranjeet Singh- Professional superbike racer, Automobile reviewer.
Dr. I.M Loya (Chief Technology Officer, Essel Group) eloquently expressed, “AUTO AWARDS SEASON 3 serves as a distinguished platform for recognizing and applauding the relentless dedication and contributions of individuals, companies, and organizations within the Indian automotive industry throughout the year. We acknowledge the challenges and stand committed to forging effective solutions. This year’s theme reflects the industry’s innate potential to ascend to global dominance by 2030.”
Ms. Mona Jain (Chief Revenue Officer, Zee Media Corporation Limited) said, “As we surge ahead into the future, AUTO AWARDS SEASON 3 will embark on a profound exploration of India’s automotive industry growth, the ever-evolving preferences of our discerning customers, and the swift and compelling embrace of electric vehicles. It promises to be an electrifying journey, an adrenaline-pumping experience, and an earnest tribute to the trailblazers and industry leaders who are actively shaping the sector’s dynamic landscape.”
Auto Awards Season 3 will be by TATA CAPITAL (Financial Partner) and TATA AIG (Insurance Partner) and will broadcast LIVE on the Facebook and YouTube platforms of DNA and Zee News.
27, Oct 2023
Jaipur Jewels Unveils Exquisite Jewellery Collections at Amethyst Chennai on 26th and 27th October
Jaipur Jewels, the celebrated luxury jewellery brand with a rich heritage spanning over 150 years and seven generations, is thrilled to announce its exclusive jewellery exhibition in Chennai. The much-anticipated event began today 26th and will be open till the 27th of October at The Folly at Amethyst, Whites Road, Chennai, presenting a breathtaking selection of fine jewellery collections.
The inauguration of this exquisite collection was a star-studded affair, graced by renowned personalities, including Actress Poornima Bhagyaraj, Anupamaa Shivram, Director- Shriram Chits, Vineet Naheta (Managing Director of Jaipur Jewels), Ritisha Niveda (Entrepreneur, Fashion Interior Designer, Supermodel, and Beauty Pageant Titleholder), Reshma Srijay-Flora Wedding Planners and Karun Raman-Celebrity Fashion Choreographer.
Jaipur Jewels has been a name synonymous with timeless elegance and craftsmanship, and this exclusive exhibition in Chennai is an opportunity for connoisseurs of fine jewellery to witness the magic of their creations firsthand. The brand’s Managing Director, Vineet Naheta, a seasoned jewellery designer and trousseau consultant with three decades of experience, will personally grace the event, adding his expertise to this grand showcase.
Ritisha Niveda, the multi-talented entrepreneur, fashion interior designer, supermodel, and beauty pageant titleholder, is hosting this exceptional event. Ritisha, also the founder of NILA – a non-profit organization for women’s empowerment, has an impressive list of accolades, including the title of Mrs. United Nations Ambassador 2018 and Mrs. South Asia UN. Her commitment to empowering women and her passion for style make her the perfect host for this exclusive exhibition.
Event Details:
• Date: 26th and 27th October 2023
• Venue: The Folly at Amethyst, Whites Road, Chennai
Jaipur Jewels invites all jewellery enthusiasts and aficionados to be a part of this grand exhibition. Discover the finest craftsmanship and exquisite designs that have been cherished for generations.
27, Oct 2023
ET DigiPlus Fest’s DG+ Startup Zone: Fostering Digital Marketing Innovation
New Delhi, Oct 27, 2023: The fifth edition of ET DigiPlus Fest, the largest annual gathering of digital marketing leaders, has consistently led the charge in unraveling the latest digital marketing trends, opportunities, emerging technologies, practices, and challenges for brand leaders.
This year, a significant addition to the event promises to be a game-changer with the introduction of the DG+ Startup Zone. This new addition is designed to celebrate innovation, support budding entrepreneurs, and foster growth within the digital marketing landscape. The event will feature a ‘Startup Demo Zone,’ spotlighting 30 pioneering startups from across Asia, all of whom are actively disrupting the digital marketing space.
The DG+ Startup Zone has been envisioned with the guidance of influential mentors and jury members, including Akshay Sharma, VP- Investments, 3one4 Capital, Shashank Randev (Founder VC, 100X), Dr. Vishal Gandhi (Founding Director & CEO, BIORx Venture Advisors), Vikram Upadhyaya (Chief Mentor & Accelerator Evangelist, GHV Accelerator), Girish Shivani (Executive Director & Fund Manager, YourNext Venture Capital), Sanil Sachar (Founding Partner, Huddle), and Ashish Gupta (VP – Seed Investments, IvyCap Ventures). The most innovative digital marketing startup selected by this esteemed jury will be awarded a substantial cash prize, providing founders with the runway they need to innovate and scale.
The Startup Demo Zone is a dynamic platform uniquely tailored for emerging startups in the digital marketing space, offering them an exclusive opportunity to showcase their groundbreaking innovations, connect with industry leaders, and supercharge their growth. This all-encompassing experience includes a dedicated Innovation Showcase to exhibit products and services, live Investor Pitches allowing startups to present their ideas to prominent investors, valuable Networking Opportunities with industry leaders for potential collaborations, heightened Visibility as they gain exposure on a platform attended by over 500 industry delegates, and as a bonus, participating startups will be granted two complimentary delegate passes to ensure they don’t miss the main event, ET DigiPlus Fest 2023.
DG+ Startup Zone is an initiative of ETBrandEquity.com and is supported by Huddle and Lets Venture.
27, Oct 2023
Film ‘Mai’ starring Kunaal Roy Kapur & Shahana Goswami to screen at Jio MAMI
Mumbai: October 27, 2023 – ‘Mai’, a 41-minute film written and directed by Milind Dhaimade and produced by Colosceum Media Pvt Ltd. (Lalit Prem Sharma) and Macguffin Pictures (Honey Trehan and Abhishek Chaubey), is all set to screen at the upcoming Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival. The festival will run from October 27 to November 5, 2023, at multiple venues in Mumbai.
The film stars Kunaal Roy Kapur and Shahana Goswami and is based on the simple thought that we can’t find anything unless we are ready to lose something. The story revolves around how the 35-year-old Suman Das (played by Kunaal), who is obsessed with his mother’s cooking, discovers the value of love, loss, and sacrifice when he has to deal with her sudden death. The film is a part of the anthology series ‘Lost & Found’ which is a unique collection of exquisite stories from 7 storytellers and their interpretation of the concept of Loss and Gain.
“Being a food enthusiast, I find the intersection of food and humanity very intriguing. Is food only nourishment? An indulgence? Or, are there such strong memories attached to the taste of everything we love, that knowingly and unknowingly, we are constantly searching for that very taste? ‘Mai’ delves into the notion of letting go, of stepping away from the familiar to explore and experience something new, and of discovering love through the metaphor of food. We hope the audience enjoys watching this movie made with all heart as much as we have enjoyed making it,” said Milind Dhaimade, Director, Mai.
Suman’s mother had prepared a wonderful array of dishes before she was to depart for a week-long pilgrimage when she unexpectedly dies. Throughout his life, Suman has never tasted anything that could compare to his mother’s cooking. Now, he faces the challenge of preserving her culinary legacy for as long as possible. One day, he encounters Mona (played by Shahana), a woman with such exceptional taste buds that she can break down the recipe of any dish she tastes. Can Suman use Mona’s help to replicate his mother’s inimitable cooking?
Working on ‘Mai’ has been a truly enriching experience. The film’s exploration of love, loss, and the power of letting go is not only relatable but also heartwarming. My character’s stubbornness and selfish obsession, which holds him back, was a unique challenge to portray. It’s a story that touches the heart, and I’m excited to see how the audience reacts to this fabulous journey of self-discovery.”, Said Kunaal Roy Kapur
Shahana Goswami added, “Shooting with Milind Dhaimade was a whirlwind of fun and madness, and Kunal’s addition elevated the experience. ‘Mai’ beautifully captures the complexities of loss and finding, reflecting life’s inner and outer workings with depth and truth. I’m so happy to be a part of this simple, beautiful film that brings out the often taken-for-granted connection between food and the emotions associated with certain flavours and aromas.”
“We, at Macguffin are extremely proud to present Mai by Milind Dhaimade, a tenderly told story of a mother’s love, a son’s loss, and the food that nourished their bond.”, said Honey Trehan & Abhishek Chaubey, Producer, Macguffin.
“The ‘Lost and Found’ metaphor deeply resonates with this anthology series, emphasizing the need to let go of the familiar to discover transformation. We are honored to be part of the Jio Mami festival, engaging with film enthusiasts and professionals, and fostering lasting conversations. ‘Mai,’ a testament to our commitment at Colosceum, transcends mere entertainment, provoking thought. We eagerly anticipate its premiere, aiming to captivate and inspire audiences with its compelling narrative and heartfelt performances. By nurturing creativity, we contribute to the growth and evolution of the film industry.” Said Lalit Prem Sharma, Producer, Colesceum.
‘Mai’ will screen on 29th October, 5.30 PM (Goregaon PVR ICON, Oberoi Mall), 31st October,6:00 PM (Andheri PVR ICON, Infiniti Mall) and 3rd November, 3:30 PM (Malad INOX Inorbit Mall) at the Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2023.
