Author: Rabindra

Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu Lauds Tanya Khanijow’s Music Video ‘Safar Anjaana

Mumbai, 3rd October, 2023: In a momentous partnership, Hoopr, India’s leading music licensing platform, is thrilled to celebrate a significant milestone with renowned travel vlogger Tanya Khanijow, who ranks 50th on Forbes’ list of top creators. Together, Hoopr and Tanya Khanijow have commemorated the achievement of 1 million subscribers on her channel by releasing ‘Safar Anjaana,’ a captivating new song, that has garnered widespread attention and earned praise from the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu.

This collaboration underscores the profound impact of music in enriching storytelling and establishing deep emotional connections with audiences. ‘Safar Anjaana’ is now available on all major streaming platforms, with an exclusive release on Hoopr.

Tanya entrusted Hoopr with this special project due to her longstanding trust in the brand and its music offerings. The song, “Safar Anjaana” resonates with feelings of independence and overwhelming emotions. It encapsulates the essence of freedom and being comfortable in one’s own skin, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Arunachal Pradesh.

“Safar Anjana” features Simran Choudhary, a talented Hindustani classically trained vocalist from Chandigarh, known for her soulful performances and impactful music activism. With Seema Sahini, the recipient of Radio Mirchi’s Best Lyricist award, joining as the lyricist, the song became a harmonious blend of freshness, the quintessence of mountains, and the thrill of embarking on a new journey.

Tanya Khanijow, an inspiration to travel enthusiasts worldwide, embarked on her solo travel journey after leaving a job in Ad analytics. Her passion for travel, combined with her innate talent for storytelling through vlogs, propelled her to the status of a Forbes Top 50 creator. Tanya’s content not only showcases her incredible travel adventures but also offers invaluable tips, tricks, hacks, and itineraries for fellow travellers.

The title “Safar Anjaana” was chosen because every journey is unpredictable, with unforeseen outcomes and adventures awaiting those who dare to embark on it.

Gaurav Dagaonkar, CEO and Co-founder of Hoopr, known for his work with celebrated artists like Arijit Singh, KK, and Shreya Khosala, shared his insights on “Safar Anjaana”. He revealed that this song was a unique project, as it revolved around a journey and was created to celebrate a milestone. The song’s inspiration struck him while backpacking in Mussoorie, evoking the flavours of the mountains. Seema Sahini, Radio Mirchi’s best lyricist winner, contributed her lyrical expertise, infusing the song with the essence of embarking on a new journey.

The song’s acoustic freshness, along with its captivating lyrics and alliteration, gives it a distinctive phonetic appeal. Gaurav emphasized the line, “Har modh modh pe kuch naya,” which encapsulates the unpredictability of every new journey or decision.

Anirudh Bhola, who added an indie band vibe to the song, emphasized the carefree and enjoyable aspect of the journey. To him, “Safar Anjaana” symbolizes the freedom of living in the moment, without the stress of reaching a destination. Like any journey, the song’s creation was an adventure in itself.

“Safar Anjaana” is a celebration of the journey, a musical ode to the thrill of the unknown, and a testament to the power of music in storytelling.

“Safar Anjaana” is available on all streaming platforms and can be licensed exclusively on Hoopr.ai.

Howden harnesses the collective power of its global broking operations under new brand

3 October 2023, Mumbai – Howden, the global insurance group, today unveils a new brand as it brings together its global broking operations under one name.

The rebrand follows Howden’s announcement in April that it would unify and simplify its business structure under a single, aligned global executive, with insurance broking, reinsurance broking and underwriting reporting directly to David Howden, CEO.

David Howden, CEO, Howden comments:

“As we unveil our new brand and enter our 30th year, we are excited to mark this new chapter for Howden. I am incredibly proud of what we’ve built. The Howden brand will be represented by 15,000 people in 50 countries, not only capturing the scale of the firm’s operations for millions of clients but also, with a fresh and dynamic visual approach, expressing their collective difference.

“By remaining true to our founding principles of independence, employee ownership, expertise, friendship and trust, we have created a company owned and run by the people that work in it. We have the architecture in place, and by continuing to bring the best insurance expertise to our clients, we can now unlock further opportunities for growth through the power of a single global brand.

“As we move forward at scale our focus is firmly on harnessing our collective power, attracting talent and aligned businesses and putting our people first. By investing in our infrastructure and empowering our experts to do their best for our clients, we can show the force for good we know insurance can be.

“We act for clients ranging from individuals to the largest global corporations, spanning the full spectrum of local, specialty and international (re)insurance. We now have a brand that shows all we have to offer our customers. It reflects who we are.

“Our go-to-market strategy is simple; we are committed to acting as one business, bringing the full force of all our experts, regardless of specialism or geography, for the benefit of our clients. That way, with transparency and trust, I can promise that all our stakeholders get the very best of us.

Amit Agarwal, CEO, Howden India says, “As we move forward, we are consolidating our collective strength under a single, powerful umbrella, fostering innovation, efficiency, and outstanding value for our clients. We will work together to build a future in which Howden is a beacon of excellence, setting new industry standards and providing great customer experiences. We are committed to fostering a culture in which every individual, working with us, is not just acknowledged, but also celebrated. Performance excellence gets enlivened by this culture of empowerment and respect”.

As of today, Howden’s Indian operations span seven offices and over 300 employees with specialist expertise servicing local clients. India is one of the world’s fastest growing insurance market and Howden’s aspiration is to become a top three broker in the country by 2026, building on its solid reputation as a specialised commercial intermediary. Howden’s focus is to continue to build out its capabilities and invest in local expertise, including reinsurance, for the benefit of its Indian and multinational clients.

Aaiba Design Unveils a Captivating Fusion of Culture and Technology at the Imagine Apple Premium Partner Store in Chennai

Mumbai, 03/10/23: Chennai, a city known for its rich cultural heritage and thriving IT sector, has witnessed a remarkable union of tradition and modernity at the launch of the second Imagine Apple Premium Partner Store. Aaiba Design, the creative force behind this spectacular project, has seamlessly blended the essence of Chennai’s culture with Apple’s cutting-edge technology, resulting in an awe-inspiring retail experience.

In a city where art, music, dance, and technology converge, the challenge was clear: create a space that resonates with the diverse sensibilities of Chennaites. To bridge this gap, Aaiba Design ingeniously fused two elements dear to both worlds – sound and color.

The project’s highlight was the creation of a unique sonic identity by blending Apple’s iconic ringtone with traditional Chennai sounds. This audio innovation was exclusively composed by Gaurav Korgaovkar, and the tune stirred the emotions of Chennai’s people while establishing a profound connection with the brand. Gaurav mentioned “Adding the instruments and musical elements from such a rich culture to an already famous tune proved to be quite a challenge. After numerous iterations, we managed to achieve a tone and a set of instruments that not only complemented the tune but also vividly showcased Chennai’s culture.”

Speaking about this, Saurabh Chandekar, Founder of Aaiba Design, said, “When working with an international product line and a national brand, creative thinking is confined by existing mandates and brand boundaries. Our approach focuses on creativity infused with culture, bridging connections among people by speaking to their hearts. In this project, the centerpiece was a tune that stirred the emotions of Chennai’s people while forging a deep connection with the brand.”

Furthermore, Harish Suvarna, Business Head, said, “Working for a global brand associated with a national brand is challenging because one’s creative thought gets constrained by brand guidelines and current mandates. However, to engage the people of Chennai, our strategy was to develop disruptive communication while emphasizing creativity, culture, and Apple ringtones. The campaign’s main attractions were the bright graphics and the specifically composed, distinctive tune. These elements were carried forward on various additional platforms, including print, outdoor advertising, social media, cinema, on-ground, etc.”

Tanvi Dhapare, Strategy Head, and Apeksha Soparkar, Content Curator, said, “The Chennai Imagine store launch successfully blended Imagine, Apple, and Chennai’s culture through technology, color, and sound. A special audio tune represented both Chennai’s culture and innovation. Effective content management and curation were key to flawless execution.”

The Aaiba Design team, working diligently to balance brand minimalism with vibrant colors, successfully created a masterpiece that captures the essence of both Imagine and Apple. Their dedication and creative prowess have left a lasting impression on Chennai. The Imagine Apple Premium Partner Store in Chennai is a testament to the harmonious blend of culture and technology, setting a new standard for retail experiences in the city. Aaiba Design has once again demonstrated its ability to transcend boundaries and create something exceptional.

The campaign’s impact was spectacular, with impressive reach and engagement across multiple platforms, including YouTube, Instagram, radio, cinema, and more.

● YouTube Video Reach: 171,000
● Instagram Reel Views: 798,000
● Instagram Shares: 500+
● Ringtone Downloads from the Website: 1,500
● Print Reach: 985,000
● Radio Reach: Over 2 million across Red FM and Mirchi
● Cinema Ad Impressions: 35,539
● PayTM Impressions: 21,018,175
● Overall Reach: 8,961,754
Overall, the Imagine Apple store was nothing less than spectacular.

Nokia 2660 gets UPI Scan & Pay Feature, including the existing users

Bangalore, 3rd October’ 2023 – HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, has introduced an exciting new feature to its classic Nokia 2660 Flip phones – UPI Scan and Pay functionality. This allows users to make secure and convenient digital transactions with a simple button press. This feature would not only be available to the new buyers of Nokia 2660 Flip, but HMD is ensuring that the existing users are also not left out. HMD has already rolled out the software update to the existing base and thereby ensuring the digital payment inclusion for everyone. The phones now also comes in two striking new colors: Pop Pink and Lush Green. The Nokia 2660 Flip is a classic flip phone with a resilient clamshell design. It has a rear camera for capturing photos, an incredibly long-lasting battery, and essential features like SMS and calls. The return of the classic Snake game adds a touch of nostalgia to the mix.

HMD Global has seen a remarkable twofold increase in its flip phone market share year-over-year, comparing 2021 to 2022. The company anticipates further growth in 2023 as more people opt for these devices to detach from their smartphones and re-engage with their communities. The flip design of the Nokia 2660 Flip simplifies call handling by bringing the microphone and earpiece closer to the user’s face. A generous 2.8-inch display and user-friendly interface eliminate any ambiguity, while the front display ensures incoming calls are easily recognizable. An emergency button provides added security, enabling quick contact with loved ones in emergencies and notifying up to five contacts for swift assistance.

The Nokia 2660 Flip ensures clear call quality with adjustable volume settings and compatibility with hearing aids (HAC), ensuring a comfortable calling experience. It has undergone rigorous durability tests, enduring tens of thousands of flip cycles, thanks to its robust polycarbonate construction. HMD Global’s launch of the Nokia 2660 Flip in new colors with UPI Scan and Pay functionality is a timely response to the growing demand for feature phones that offer a balance of convenience and nostalgia. The phone is well-suited for users who want to reduce their screen time, reconnect with the world around them, and make digital payments with ease.

Wellness by Design – The Healing Power of Holistic Homes

– by Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces

The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of living in residential spaces that support health and well-being. With lockdowns and social distancing norms, our homes became our sanctuaries as well as our workplaces and schools. Suddenly, we became aware of how conducive our homes are for our physical and mental health.

The pandemic is, for all practical purposes, over. While there are still cases across the country, the virus has lost its sting – at least for now. But we have not lost the bitter after-taste of horror and helplessness caused by an invisible killer virus that threatened the health and even the lives of our families.

Just three years ago, the traditional strongholds of our psychological security – our offices and social gathering venues – were shut an inaccessible. Covid-19 put paid to any illusion of strength in numbers. In fact, all gathering places became the most dangerous places to be.

There was – and is – only place of relative safety, and that was the home. We haven’t forgotten this, are unlikely to forget it for generations to come, and now view our homes with renewed respect and also through a brand new lens… that of health.

What should you look for while picking a home from the perspective of how supportive and conducive it is of your family’s health? Let’s delve right in.

Happy home, healthy home

When evaluating apartments, especially in crowded cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru and Delhi, it is crucial to assess the design and facilities from the lens of healthy living.

At an apartment unit level, adequate natural lighting and ventilation should be non-negotiable. Flats that get sufficient sunlight and have cross-ventilation not only feel more pleasant. They also reduce mold and humidity, and are more efficient at ridding the place of airborne pathogens. Good air circulation is vital for mitigating airborne infections.

Don’t skimp on size

The size of the apartment also matters. Cramped living spaces with tiny bedrooms can negatively impact physical as well as mental health over time. Look for flats with adequate floor-space to accommodate the family and your belongings as well as sufficient movement to support health and prevent a sedentary lifestyle. But a word of warning here.

In recent years, many Indian homebuyers, especially in the costly metropolitan cities, have been foregoing balconies in favour of extra usable floor-space. This is a mistake at several levels because balconies are an important connection with open air, sunlight and nature – all of which are vital from a health perspective.

Look through green-tinted glasses

When assessing the housing complex, look for open green spaces and recreational facilities. Parks, gardens and sit-outs within the premises give residents accessible options for daily walks, runs and yoga. For children, well-maintained playgrounds encourage physical activity and social connections.

Other recreational facilities like swimming pools, gymnasiums and sports courts allow residents to exercise and destress without having to step out of the project. Integrated townships should be given a high-priority status on your list of projects to evaluate.

Integrated and nearby healthcare

The housing complex should also have basic healthcare facilities on premise or nearby. A doctor-on-call, clinic within the complex, and tie-ups with diagnostic labs and hospitals in the neighborhood enhance healthcare access. This can make a big difference in case of medical emergencies. Proximity to pharmacies, organic stores, and fresh vegetable markets also facilitates healthy living.

In terms of location, housing projects that are well-connected to public transport systems, commercial hubs and offices via roads and metro/rail networks score higher. Being close to one’s workplace cuts down long commutes, reducing stress and exposure to road pollution, and promotes healthy work-life balance. Good connectivity also ensures convenient access to other health infrastructure like gyms, parks and healthcare facilities around the city.

Safety and security provisions including CCTV cameras, guarded gates and vigilant security staff offer peace of mind and encourage residents to use facilities like parks without worry. Senior citizens in particular prefer housing complexes with 24/7 security and access control.

Technology-enabled smart home features also assist healthy living. Smart lighting systems automatically calibrate based on external light, ensuring optimal lighting throughout the day and preventing unhealthy glare and unsafe dimness in the flat. Smart air conditioners maintain the perfect temperature, preventing unhealthy overheating and body moisture loss. Smart locks and visitor screening add not only convenience but an extra level of safety.

Maintenance – a major health prerogative

While evaluating housing projects from a health perspective, the community also matters. Ensure that the developer has created and handed over a functioning housing society with an active resident welfare association.

This assures you that there are mechanisms in place to enforce collecting garbage, cleaning common areas, and keeping the project’s security measures functioning. Proactive housing societies also regularly arrange health camps for residents.

Ultimately, the apartment you buy should not just be an affordable roof over your head, but a genuinely liveable space that nourishes your mind and body. The pandemic has nudged home buyers to think holistically about concepts like space, light, green cover, clean air, facilities and location. Making mindful choices will go a long way in supporting the long-term health and wellness of your family.

And since health-supporting features will be in increasing demand over the years to come, such features and facilities also guarantee a higher resale value for your property should you decide to upgrade to something even bigger and better in the future.

About the Author: 

Akash Pharande is Managing Director – Pharande Spaces, a leading real estate construction and development firm famous for its township projects in West Pune and beyond. Pharande Promoters & Builders, the flagship company of Pharande Spaces and an ISO 9001-2000 certified company, is a pioneer of townships in West Pune.

Isuzu Motors India (IMI) gets overwhelming response for ISUZU D-MAX S-CAB Z

2 October, 2023, Chennai: Isuzu Motors India, a subsidiary of Isuzu Motors Limited, Japan, had launched the ISUZU D-MAX S-CAB Z, the smartest looking and safest crew-cab pick-up in the CV segment, on 31st August 2023. It has more than 30 new features of which 18 of them are ‘Best-in-segment’. It addresses the needs and aspirations of the evolving Indian businessmen and professionals for a stylish-looking vehicle for their business needs, which is engineered for life.

‘In a month’s time since launch, we have received an overwhelming response for the ISUZU D-MAX S-CAB Z which embodies the essence of an aspirational pick-up that’s truly ‘Beyond the Ordinary’.

It is heartening to note that it has become the pick-up of choice in its segment for the growing ISUZU community and we thank them for the appreciation and positive response. Based on the positive market traction and considering the approaching festive season, Isuzu Motors India extends the introductory pricing* of INR 14,99, 910/- (ex-Showroom, Chennai) for booking customers, until 31st of October 2023.

Adding to the cheer, we have also recently inaugurated 3S facilities in Kolhapur and Nashik, extending our dealership network reach with 54 seamless sales and service touchpoints, to bring our brand and products closer to our customers’.