27, Dec 2023
Uno Minda unveils the durable range of commercial vehicle filters powered by Roki
National, 27th December 2023: Just like we need nostrils to breathe clean air. An automobile’s engine needs high quality filters to function properly and extract optimum performance. The engine and other costly internal components of an automobile can easily be corroded by pollutants such as dirt, dust, and other debris. The air filters act as an effective barrier against them, ensuring the engine’s and other critical components’ efficiency and longevity. However, the locally available filters not only are ineffective against small particles but also can damage costly engine components. Thus, Uno Minda, a leading Tier 1 supplier of Proprietary Automotive Solutions to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), has introduced a promising range of automotive filters in the Indian aftermarkets for commercial vehicles, consisting of air filter, oil filter, and fuel filter. Harnessing the power of cutting-edge Japanese technology, this superior range of commercial vehicle filters is manufactured in collaboration with Roki, a Japanese leader in producing automotive filtration equipment. ROKI-UNO MINDA’s manufacturing processes meet the highest industry standards, thereby demonstrating their commitment to producing long-lasting and superior quality filters.
The latest Uno Minda car filters, which block even fine particles, improve performance and reduce wear and tear of engine components. The air filter is designed to effectively safeguard the engine against impurities, whereas the fuel filter is designed to screen out dust & dirt particles and water content from the fuel which can have adverse effects on the fuel injection & engine components. Finally, the oil filter reduces wear and tear caused by impurities in engine oil. All three filters shall work in tandem to extend engine life, reduce fuel consumption, and provide a more comfortable driving experience.
According to Mr. Anand Kumar, Head of Product & Strategy, Aftermarket Domain, Uno Minda Ltd. “We at Uno Minda, believe that commercial vehicles have a huge role in the Indian economy as they ensure timely material transportation across nations. We came in contact with a lot of commercial vehicle owners to understand their major pain points related to their vehicle. The most common problem faced by them was clogging in their vehicle’s engine which can cause damage to costly internal components. It results in the engine losing its power, consumption of more fuel, thereby emitting higher pollution as a result. This can have a significant impact on the environment as well as the road safety. Therefore, to solve this problem, we have introduced superior quality commercial filters in the aftermarket in association with Roki Japan to ensure availability of effective filter design with advanced filtration technology. In order to maximize engine performance and ensure smooth and effective operation under all driving conditions, our filters are made in controlled manufacturing facilities in India using imported advanced filtration paper. They are extensively tested for their durability and performance and we are confident that our new range of filters will not only meet or surpass customer expectations but also increase the general efficiency and lifespan of their vehicles.”
The fact that the filters are made to withstand the challenging driving conditions in India and guarantee performance that meets OEM standards makes this latest range of automotive filters from Uno Minda a class in itself. The icing on the cake is the company’s assurance that its entire line of automotive filters is available for all makes and models of commercial vehicles.
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- By Rabindra
27, Dec 2023
A mega Annual Personal Finance Survey
Money9 Mega Annual Personal Finance Pulse Survey Unveils India’s Financial Dichotomy: Dreams Persist Amidst Economic Struggles
Synopsis: Money9’s annual survey, the most extensive examination of Indian households, covers more than 35,000 households across 20 states, revealing a diverse cross-section of income levels, age groups, and geographical locations. Notably, Karnataka surpasses Maharashtra in average monthly household income, reaching Rs 35,411.
New Delhi, December 27, 2023: Startling revelations from the Money9 Mega Annual Personal Finance Pulse survey shed light on the financial landscape of India. More than 22% of Indians have been forced to deplete their lifetime savings due to unexpected medical emergencies. Despite signs of economic recovery, a daunting 56% of Indian households live in constant fear of job loss.
However, amidst these challenges, India continues to dream. The survey indicates that 3% of families plan to purchase a two-wheeler or car in the next six months, while over 10% have their sights set on acquiring a smartphone within the same period.
This groundbreaking data comes from Money9’s annual Personal Finance Pulse survey, the most extensive and comprehensive examination of Indian households’ income, expenditures, standard of living, savings, investments, and future aspirations. Money9, India’s first multi-media and multi-language Personal Finance platform, is also the fastest-growing super app, and it is part of the TV9 Network, India’s premier news network.
The 2023 edition of the survey has covered more than 35,000 households across 20 states, spanning 1,170 locations and 115 districts in India. It represents a diverse cross-section of age groups, income levels, and geographical locations, encompassing both urban and rural populations. Special attention has been given to urban and suburban households.
This survey was conducted in collaboration with Research Triangle Institute (RTI) International. RTI International has a proven track record of conducting research studies for various clients, including esteemed organizations such as the World Bank, International Finance Corporation, and the World Health Organization.
“Amidst the financial challenges revealed by the Money9 Mega Annual Personal Finance Pulse survey, the resilient spirit of India shines through. The data puts a spotlight on both the struggles and dreams of our people. As the MD and CEO of TV9 Network, India’s No.1 News Network, I see a nation unyielding in its aspirations, adapting to change, and crafting unmeasurable layers that define the complexity and richness of India’s financial landscape.” said, Mr. Barun Das, MD and CEO, TV9 Network
“Navigating the intricate threads of India’s financial narrative, I find inspiration in the resilience of our people. The Money 9 Mega Annual Personal Finance Pulse survey unravels the stories of challenges and aspirations, painting a vivid picture of our economic landscape. Through these revelations, we empower individuals with knowledge, fostering a community that dreams, adapts, and charts its course towards financial well-being,” said Anshuman Tiwari, Editor, Money9.
Post covid recovery and risks:
The survey reveals that the return of migrant labourers post-Covid has contributed to an increase in the income of India’s urban households in 2023. The average monthly income has surged by over 12% to reach Rs 25,910, up from Rs 23,000 the previous year. However, a staggering 77% of Indians still earn less than Rs 35,000 per month. The Money 9 personal finance survey’s financial security index categorizes 65% of Indian households as financially vulnerable. Alarmingly, only 30% of households reported an improvement in their financial situation in the last five years, while over 70% experienced a decline or stagnation during the same period.
Big upset in state’s ranking:
In a surprising turn of events, Karnataka has surpassed Maharashtra to claim the top spot in terms of average monthly household income. Karnataka now boasts an impressive figure of Rs 35,411, dethroning Maharashtra, which held the title in the 2022 survey.
Insurance penetration grows:
Despite the changing financial landscape, the affinity of Indians for gold and traditional bank deposits remains unwavering. Approximately 77% of Indians prefer to safeguard their hard-earned money through bank deposits, while 21% choose to invest in gold. Encouragingly, the survey indicates a positive trend in insurance penetration, with over 27% of households holding life insurance policies in 2023, up from 19% in the 2022 survey. However, a concerning 53% of households still lack health insurance coverage.
Stocks and Mutual Funds shine:
India’s burgeoning stock market is gradually making its way into the pockets of investors, with the percentage of stock market investors surging from a mere 3% to 9% compared to the previous year. Additionally, 10% of Indian families have now embraced mutual fund investments, up from 6% in 2022.
Not Just India, it is about your city:
Regional variations persist, with southern Indian cities such as Bengaluru (69%) and Thiruvananthapuram (66%) leading in gold savings. In terms of insurance penetration, Madurai (84%) claims the top spot, followed closely by Amravati (79%) and Aurangabad (76%).
Aspirations Amid Challenges:
Despite facing challenges, India continues to aspire to greater heights. The percentage of Indian households affording a luxurious lifestyle has increased from 3% in 2022 to 5% in 2023. While luxury remains concentrated primarily in metro cities, these findings underscore India’s relentless pursuit of progress.
27, Dec 2023
Universal Halwasiya Group Successfully Completes Rs. 113-Crore Open Offer of Cupid Limited
Mumbai, India, December 27, 2023: Columbia Petro Chem Private Limited (“Acquirer 1”) and Aditya Halwasiya (“Acquirer 2”), (collectively referred to as “Acquirers”) have successfully completed Rs 113-crore open offer to acquire up to 3.47 million equity shares or 26 per cent stake of Cupid Limited at ₹325 per share.
Only 367 shares were tendered by public shareholders against an Open Offer for up to 34,67,880 fully paid up equity shares.
The open offer was followed by Universal-Halwasiya Group and Family through Columbia Petro Chem Private Limited and Mr. Aditya Halwasiya, after acquiring 5.58 million shares constituting 41.84 per cent of issued and paid up capital of Cupid Limited at Rs. 285 per equity share aggregating to Rs. 159.06 crore from its outgoing promoter / promoter group, Mr. Omprakash Garg and Mrs. Veena Garg.
The Acquirers of Cupid Limited have successfully completed its Open Offer as per all relevant SEBI guidelines. The Issue opened on Tuesday, December 12, 2023 and successfully closed on Tuesday, December 26, 2023.
Monarch Networth Capital Limited was the Manager to the open offer.
“Completing this open offer marks a pivotal moment for our group. It’s a testament to our team’s relentless dedication and strategic vision. We’re grateful for the trust shown by our stakeholders and excited for the opportunities this success brings. This achievement reaffirms our commitment to excellence and innovation, inspiring us to set even higher benchmarks. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to this milestone and look forward to continued growth and collaboration in our journey ahead.” said Mr. Aditya Halwasiya.
27, Dec 2023
RBI’s Risk Weight Hike on Consumer Credit
“RBI’s Risk Weight Hike on Customer Credit” by Mr. Amit Shroff, CEO of Arvog
In a recent move, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has implemented a significant increase in the risk weight for loans to customers, credit card treatments, and NBFC loans from 100% to 125%. Concerns over the rapid expansion of consumer borrowing have been rising, prompting this decision.
How will this adjustment impact the dynamics of consumer lending? More importantly, what are the implications for traditional and non-banking lenders? As these questions linger, exploring the potential consequences and navigating the road ahead for consumers and financial institutions is imperative.
What is a risk weight?
The RBI mandates banks set aside capital (risk weight) to lend money. The National Housing Bank does the same for housing finance businesses. Basically, it’s how much (shown as the loan percentage) institutions need to conserve for assets. By raising risk weights, the Reserve Bank of India hopes to prepare banks for losses in these categories and prevent overexposure that might threaten the banking system.
Latest Move on Risk Weights by the RBI
According to the RBI, unsecured loans, including credit cards, personal loans, and consumer credits, now have higher risk weights. The risk factor for banks lending to non-banking financing businesses that serve this market also increased. The risk weight determines the amount of money that the bank or home loan business must set aside. For example, a house loan of more than Rs 75 lakh carries a risk weight of 125%. Risk weight increases to Rs 1,250 crore for a bank with a Rs 1,000 crore portfolio in loans exceeding Rs 75 lakh.
The issue of capital adequacy now arises. This figure is 12% for home finance providers, compared to 9% for banks. Simply put, a bank must reserve Rs 112.50 crore, while a home finance firm must set aside Rs 150 crore.
Effects on Borrowers
Interest Rates: Borrowers usually pay less in interest when their risk weights are lower. Banks can provide more competitive interest rates on loans when they hold assets with a lower risk weight because they conserve cash. The interest rates on mortgage loans, for instance, are often lower than those on credit cards or personal loans due to the lower risk weights associated with the former.
Loan price: Risk weights have an indirect impact on loan price. When risk weights are higher, banks have to put more cash into the business, which could cause interest rates on loans to go up.
Impact on Retail Lending
Capital Consumption: Due to the higher risk weight restrictions, banks may need to keep more capital to cover these loans, resulting in a 35–100 basis point increase in lending costs. The requirement to raise capital may be greater for PSU banks than for well-capitalised firms.
Pricing and Growth: Although risk weights have increased, it is unlikely that the expansion of loans would be immediately restricted. This is because there will be a significant demand for credit regardless of interest rate changes. However, lenders and borrowers will closely observe this change since it may affect bank pricing methods.
The road ahead
Unsecured loans, such as those for consumer credits, personal loans, and credit card balances, are rising. The marginal cost of these loan segments might increase because of the greater risk provisioning. The effect on loan rates would differ between lenders
Banks that have a greater proportion of unsecured advances in their loan portfolios could respond more strongly than those that do not. Overall, banks and NBFCs will need more funding to adjust their objectives to rising risk weights while limiting profit margins and NPA risks.
27, Dec 2023
“The content landscape change will be exponential and exciting through AI in the next 24 months”
Hyderabad, 27 December 2023: Following an accomplished Day 1 of the StartX Summit, The Hyderabad Public School Begumpet hosted another enriching day of the summit. The day featured a lineup of renowned HPS alumni experts, sharing their insights and strategies for achieving success in the startup landscape. A captivating session by HPS alumni Ishan Chatterjee, Rana Daggubati, and Nag Ashwin was a delight for aspiring creators. The event unfolded with a panel discussion on ‘Navigating the Creator Economy – A New Era of Digital Entrepreneurship’. Mr. Ishan Chatterjee – Managing Director, YouTube India; Mr. Rahul Tamada – Cofounder & CEO, Tamada Media; Ms. Supriya Yarlagadda – CEO, Annapurna Studios; Mr. Rana Daggubati – Film Actor & Producer; Mr. Nag Ashwin – Indian Film Director & Screenwriter; Mr. Satish Mummareddy – Former Product Manager, GenAI, Meta discussed the current trends in the economic landscape for entrepreneurs especially in the digital era.
Elaborating on the evolution of content, Mr. Ishan Chatterjee – Managing Director, YouTube India said, “Platforms like YouTube have democratized access to creative arts, now anyone can be creator. It has implications for mainstream media and existing business and for a creator economy as a whole since you can legitimately build business. Hyper-localization and the ability to access languages and genres is evermore possible. With a huge majority of content being consumed in short form videos now, the content landscape will change in the next 24 months by Gen- AI. It will be an exponential and exciting change.”
Mr. Rana Daggubati – Film Actor & Producer reflected on the changing landscape for creators, “Being a creator is all about being original, you must have a story coming deep inside from you, this is important to for the content to be relevant. Our generation has seen films disappeared with digitization. Learning and unlearning is the key, you need to create a cycle. Change is going to be dramatic and quick, unless you are on that cycle, it will be difficult. It is what you choose to chase – which skill you want to pick. Earlier it used to be an imitation game. The change of thought now is that the world is one and anything that is made here can get picked elsewhere in no time.”
“The mainstream creators are going to be superpowers – with higher quality content which is accessible much faster, much cheaper, a large set of people who can get an opportunity to do that will be superpowers” said Mr. Satish Mummareddy – Former Product Manager, GenAI, Meta added.
Reminiscing their memories from school days, Mr. Nag Ashwin – Indian Film Director and screenwriter shared, “HPS helped us to prep for the real world and we are glad to give back to the school”. Talking about filmmaking he added, “When I make a film, I wish to reach wider audience rather than confined audience like from Bangladesh or any other global space.
“When every creator can build an audience set that is very niche, monetization is an easy ball game. Short-form content is the future. Monetization is just a byproduct of the community built on loyalty and constant engagement,” said Mr. Rahul Tamada – Cofounder & CEO, Tamada Media.
Yet another panel discussion on ‘Intrapreneurship – Igniting Innovation in Established Businesses’ witnessed Mr. Vikas Jhabakh- MD, Motovault & Benelli India; Mr. Krishna Kanumari- CEO and MD – Sai Life sciences; Mr. Gautam Reddy- Co-founder, PAD integrated Communications; Mr. Anand Narasimhan – Head of Oncology Business, Merck; Abhishek Somany- Owner, Somany Ceramics Limited.
Mr. Anand Narasimhan – Head of Oncology Business, Merck said, “Rallying the team together is what HPS taught me. I attribute a lot of what I am today to HPS. As one of the oldest pharma companies of the world, you must reinvent yourself. It took until 2008 when the company could build a base and grow its businesses. Organic innovation is needed to overcome the inertia. The political environment plays a huge role and we have the best startup environment in the world.”
“India is strong in generic manufacturing. You have to pick the best trend which you believe in. In R&D, you have to invest in technology ahead of time, incubate for long period of time. We need to think strategically for innovative business, studying the trends before others do. Every company has to decide its own comfort level risk. HPS as a school made us all-rounders by exposing us to a diverse environment.” Mr. Krishna Kanumari- CEO and MD – Sai Life sciences added.
Mr. Vikas Jhabakh- MD, Motovault & Benelli India said; “About 1.5%-1.6% family businesses go beyond family business. It is critical to identify your space in the market before the trend catches in the market. If the opportunity is too obvious, you are probably already late. You need to understand where the market is moving.. You might never time it as well but be able to take advantage of the trends. The greatest learning for me at HPS was that everything is possible in this world. There is something special that has been happening at HPS throughout and the great alumni network sets us apart.”
Abhishek Somany- Owner, Somany Ceramics Limited reminisced his homecoming days by saying, “HPS will have a lot more alumni who will be on the world stage”. He said that a lot of disruption is happening in the AI front in ceramics. People are more familiar with purchasing online since technology is enabling the consumer in their purchase decisions.”
Post the panel discussions, entrepreneurs and leaders participated in speed networking sessions with startups showcased at the event. The young entrepreneurs got to learn from the best in the field to exchange ideas spanning entrepreneurship, content creation, healthcare, technology, and marketing, as these sessions gave them a platform to interact with global mentors at the school. An interesting stark tank inspired Startup Pitch session was also held, which gave a boost to Six Alumni-led startups by allowing them to pitch in front of a 5-judge panel.
At the summit’s conclusion, funding was secured by three startups—Hit Wicket, Panoplia, and Iris amounting to a total of 4.9 crores from Alumni Investors, including major contributors like Mr. Ashish Bajaj, CEO and co-founder of eLear Solutions, and Mr. Sailesh Sigatapu, General Partner at Anthill Ventures.
Cricket commentator and alumnus Harsha Bhogle also inaugurated a leadership and grooming program for future leaders – ‘World is my Oyster‘. A panel discussion was held on the program crafted to boost mentorship and guidance through large scale alumni participation. Hardcore components of the module will be board room discussions and conflict management. The panelists comprised Dr. Skand Bali, the Principal of The Hyderabad Public School, Mr. Suheim Sheikh from YCH Sports Foundation, Himanshu Tambe from ISB & SMUCEO Cosmode Consultants, and Mr. Sarat Naru, specializing in career counseling.
27, Dec 2023
Ayurvedant Redefines Wellness Landscape with Innovative Ayurvedic Offerings
Experience the Power of Ayurveda with Ayurvedant – Where Tradition Meets Modern Wellness for a Healthier Tomorrow!
27th Dec 2023, New Delhi: In the pursuit of a healthier and more balanced life, Ayurvedant emerges as a beacon of preventive care, grounded in the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda. Founded on the principle that prevention is superior to cure, Ayurvedant prioritizes holistic well-being for the mind, body, and soul. The brand’s mission centers on providing affordable access to premium Ayurvedic products, catering to diverse age groups and genders. Unlike the traditional approach of turning to medicinal remedies only in times of illness, Ayurvedant advocates for a proactive stance on health.
What sets Ayurvedant apart is its alliance with the esteemed Baidyanath Research Foundation (BRF), boasting over a century of Ayurvedic expertise. With products manufactured in WHO-GMP certified facilities, Ayurvedant ensures consistency through standardized extracts in every batch. The brand takes a modern approach, offering free consultations with doctors and fostering accessibility for millennials and Gen-Z, demystifying Ayurveda for a new era.
Ayurvedant’s product lineup includes notable offerings such as Cardiwin DS, promoting cardiovascular health, and Diawin DS, aiding in blood sugar regulation. The brand also features a range of 100% natural Ready-To-Drink juices without added sugar or preservatives. Striking a harmonious balance between traditional Ayurvedic principles and contemporary scientific methods, Ayurvedant aligns its product development with ancient texts while adhering to modern quality standards.
The commitment to quality and purity is evident in Ayurvedant’s WHO-GMP certified manufacturing processes and the meticulous sourcing of raw ingredients from specific regions across India. The brand’s dedication to environmental sustainability is reflected in its use of recycled plastic for packaging for majority of their products.
Ayurvedant’s vision, as envisioned by its founder, is to make Ayurveda universally accepted and accessible. Unlike traditional Ayurvedic practices, Ayurvedant adopts a modern and straightforward approach, ensuring its products are available both online and in physical stores, reaching a wider audience.
With recent launches like Cannabliss, a hemp-based pain relief oil, and Himalayan Pink Rock Salt, Ayurvedant continues to innovate. The brand’s upcoming additions, including new tea variants like Tulsi & Camomile, and Tulsi, Ginger & Turmeric, showcase its commitment to staying at the forefront of wellness solutions.
For more information about Ayurvedant and its range of Ayurvedic products, visit : https://ayurvedant.com
About Ayurvedant:
Ayurvedant is a wellness brand founded on the principle of preventive health through Ayurveda. Backed by Baidyanath Research Foundation, Ayurvedant offers a range of Ayurvedic products manufactured in WHO-GMP certified facilities. The brand combines traditional wisdom with modern accessibility, making Ayurveda an integral part of a contemporary and holistic lifestyle.
27, Dec 2023
“Musical Night with Spectrum” Ignites the Festive Season with Spectacular Performances and Unforgettable Moments”
Spectrum Metro, in Sector 75, Noida, the iconic destination for entertainment and celebration, successfully set the stage ablaze with its much-anticipated festive event, “Musical Night with Spectrum.” The event marked the culmination of 2023 and the onset of the Christmas and New Year festivities. The musical extravaganza left the audience in awe, with talented artists taking the stage by storm and delivering breathtaking performances. It was held on December 25, 2023.
The night began with an air of excitement as Spectrum@Metro, transformed into a musical haven adorned with festive decorations and sparkling lights. The ambience resonated with the season’s spirit, creating the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening. The stage came alive with a dance group opening the show with a soul-stirring performance on ‘Ganesh Vandana’ that captivated the audience from the very first note. The lineup for the evening featured a melodious and talented Sufi group, ‘Ibadad’, to captivate the audience with their finest performance by singer Mayank Chhabra on famous tracks like “O humdum bin tere kya jeena” and “Akhiyan udeek diyan.” As the night progressed, the festive spirit peaked with the seamless transitions between performances that kept the energy high and the audience engaged, creating an eccentric atmosphere that resonated with the holiday spirit.
Speaking on the event, Mr Ajendra Singh, V.P. Sales & Marketing, said, “Musical Night with Spectrum” at Spectrum Metro was a resounding success, bringing together a community of music lovers and creating a magical atmosphere this festive season. Spectrum Metro once again proved itself as the go-to destination for unparalleled entertainment and celebration. It will always strive to entertain visitors with a potpourri of amusement and fun.” Until the next musical rendezvous, the spirit of “Musical Night with Spectrum” will continue to resonate in the hearts of all people who participated in this extraordinary festive celebration.
27, Dec 2023
Air India Express Unveils Brand Sonic Identity with Festive and Middle Eastern Renditions Across Touchpoints
Air India Express launched its sonic identity across touchpoints, with a festive twist to its inflight music. The airline also revealed a Middle Eastern rendition, acknowledging the significance of its 13 destinations in the Gulf, its largest overseas market.
Bengaluru, 27th December 2023: Incorporating an auditory extension to its new brand experience, Air India Express infused a festive spirit in its signature sonic identity, infusing holiday vibes to its brand music in-flight. Alongside the festive addition, Air India Express also recorded a Middle Eastern version of its sonic identity.
The sonic identity of Air India Express was developed in a meticulous three-stage process originating with the brand’s distinctive personality of intuitiveness, style, accessibility, and warmth, while capturing the spirit of New India infused with optimism and confidence. The Air India Express sonic identity artfully embodies the brand essence depicting three distinct rasas of Indian classical music – karuna (empathy), adbhuta (wonder) and veera (valour). The sonic identity also incorporates a distinct take on the signature two-tone airline announcement ‘chime.’ The Christmas-themed sonic identity is designed to resonate with the holiday spirit, offering a unique and memorable sensory experience.
Talking about the brand sonic identity, Siddhartha Butalia, Chief Marketing Officer, Air India Express, said, “Travel is meant to be about new experiences and lasting memories, and music resonates emotionally with both a universality in the way we experience it as well as a cultural specificity. Like our brand, our sonic identity has been crafted to deliver a more holistic and memorable sensory experience. It encapsulates the essence the new Air India Express brand and positioning, embodying the ‘Explorer’ and the ‘Everyperson’ archetypes, and inviting travellers to ‘Fly as You Are’ with a more liberating travel experience empowered by digitally driven personalisation. Our brand identity is reflected in our vision to inspire new possibilities and make meaningful connections with unmatched Indian warmth. Like the unique patterns of India on the tail of every new aircraft we are inducting, our sonic identity reflects the rich heritage and tapestry of our culture while resonating the vibrancy and confidence of a progressive and pluralistic future.”
The sonic identity for Air India Express amalgamates the dynamism of exploration with the familiarity and accessibility that define the brand. Using the science of sound and the art of music, the sonic identity was developed in collaboration with BrandMusiq, a leading sonic branding firm in Asia. Certain scales or ragas were identified, such as ‘Raag Savitri,’ that express the brand’s ethos. These were incorporated with a fusion of traditional instruments such as the violin (South), sitar (Pan India), santoor (North), and flute (East), as well as rhythm instruments such as the ghatam (South) and tabla (North), and modern melodic instruments like the electric guitar and synth bass arpeggiator, with rhythmic instruments, including kick drums, snares, and hi-hats. The result is a homage to the rich cultural heritage of India, while its modern and futuristic vibe is very reflective of the New India. The Air India Experience sonic experience is designed to resonate the spirit of a young, vibrant, and forward-thinking India.
The Explorer avatar comes alive with the use of an Electric Guitar motif and Synth Bass Arpeggiator while the Everyperson avatar is brought alive with the use of the Sitar, Ghatam and Tabla. The dynamism, confidence, and optimism of the brand are expressed using a Synth Bass in combination with Kick and Snare Drums.
Taking inspiration from the Indian ‘Raag Savitri,’ which evokes feelings of upliftment and cheerfulness, the sonic identity of Air India Express is based on the dominant scale of Western music. The moving electric guitar motif and a synth bass arpeggiator were harnessed to express the airline’s adventurous, ‘Explorer’ personality. This was thoughtfully balanced by the sound of the ‘Everyperson,’ achieved using sitar, ghatam, and the tabla in the MOGOSCAPE®. The essence of karuna (empathy and understanding) was invoked through the melody, using the violin, santoor, and sitar. The combination of the synth bass arpeggiator with the drum and snare rhythm evokes the confidence and dynamism of the brand. The resulting melody is a beautiful fusion of Indian organic and modern Western instruments.
For the Middle East, Air India Express has thoughtfully adapted its sonic identity to resonate with the rich cultural nuances of the region. The Middle Eastern rendition of the sonic identity uniquely interprets sound as a unifying force between diverse regions, recognising music as a universal language. This adaptation incorporates distinctive instruments indigenous to the Middle East, such as Oud and Bağlama (string instruments), Darbuka and Mirwas (percussion instruments), Bouzouki (another string instrument), and Rebab (a traditional bowed string instrument). By infusing these authentic elements, the airline adds a captivating Middle Eastern flavour to its signature brand melody, reinforcing its commitment to cultural inclusivity and creating an auditory experience that resonates with the diverse communities it serves.
Air India Express is featuring various artistic renditions of its sonic identity in its brand launch film, brand manifesto audio-visual, in-flight and at various customer engagement platforms including in its website, contact centre and multilingual Chatbot Tia. The sonic identity is also available to download on its website airindiaexpress.com and in-flight exprience hub, AirFlix. The Sonic Identity System includes a MOGOSCAPE® (sonic palette), a MOGO® (musical logo), and a Mini-MOGO® (the signature two-tone airline announcement ‘chime’). The powerful auditory signature has been meticulously designed keeping in mind the profound impact of sound on human emotions and decision-making, to reinforce brand recognition and the association with an irresistible groove that mirrors the airline’s commitment to delivering a seamless and uplifting travel experience.
27, Dec 2023
Faculty of Management Studies inaugurates Conference on “Empowering Change
Faculty of Management Studies inaugurates Conference on “Empowering Change: Insights from Visionaries” Social Entrepreneurship
New Delhi, 27th December 2023: Social on Social in collaboration with Goonj and Faculty of Management Studies, University of Delhi, a premier B-school in the country inaugurated the conference on Empowering Change: Insights from Visionaries” Social Entrepreneurship at SP Jain Auditorium, South Campus Delhi University on 23rd December, 2023. The conference was graced by featuring Magsaysay Awardee Anshu Gupta, Founder, Goonj, Marketing Guru Prof. Harsh Verma, Faculty of Management Studies, University of Delhi (FMS) and the panel discussion was moderated by Mayank Singh, Senior Journalist from The New Indian Express. The event was managed by MBA (executive) & Health Care Administration students of FMS.
With the theme of “Empowering Change: Insights from Visionaries” Social Entrepreneurship”, this panel brings together esteemed personalities, practitioners, senior journalists and academicians in the management ecosystem to explore perspectives on Social Entrepreneurship, Business Start-up, and Business Management. The event was organized by the students of MBA (Executive) under the dynamic leadership of Tabrez Alam, Ankur Bansal, Satish Kumar, Rahul Joshi, Gaurav Kumar, Shilpa Jha and other volunteers of the MBA (executive) and Healthcare Administration students. The event started with a montage made by Shilpa Jha of MBA (Executive).
Anshu Gupta, has been the Founder Director at Goonj and Gram Swabhimaan is an Ashoka and Schwab Fellow and Magsaysay Awardee. He has created a mass movement by repositioning the last person as a champion of change, a contributor, and an equal participant with his wisdom, resources, and hard work. With his core philosophy imbibed in dignity and respect for recipients, he has successfully repositioned material; especially clothing, beyond the traditional perception of charity.
Speaking on the occasion, Nishant Verma, MBA (Executive), Faculty of Management Studies welcomed everyone to the panel discussion. He expressed his happiness about hosting the conference and highlighted that it will add more value and will create knowledge generations across various research spheres. In his address, he also spoke about How Social Entrepreneurship is Revolutionizing India and Changing the World.
Anshu Gupta, Founder Director at Goonj touched hearts of the audience with his stories and experiences that emphasised on How Social Entrepreneurs Are Changing the World and Return of Investment being the maximum in the field of social entrepreneurship and the RoI being happiness. Social Entrepreneurs are the torchbearers of hope and progress, redefining the role of business in society. He also discussed on the ways through which innovative thinking and business acumen can create positive and sustainable social or environmental impact.
Prof. Dr. Harsh V Verma shared his valuable insights on the topic, “How Social entrepreneurship seeks to redefine progress, introducing a broader perspective that considers the well-being of both people and the planet alongside profitability. He also emphasized the areas to focus ranging from social entrepreneurship that has evolved over time, reflecting the dynamic nature of this field. He focused on importance of public partnership and importance of change in the mentality of the social fabric.
Mayank Singh, Senior Journalist from The New Indian Express moderated the session and highlighted on the key aspects such as Implementation of social entrepreneurship entails both the micro- and macro-level. He sewed the entire panel discussion and provoked audience for a self manthan and made the session beautifully interactive.
The session was followed up by Q & A sessions. The conference ended on a positive note with cloth donation initiative in association with Goonj and an organ donation awareness camp was also organised by NOTTO. The event was followed by a plantation drive at the South Campus, Delhi University today on 23.12.2023.
The event was supported by SAIL’s Salem Stainless and presented Urban Flasks to the esteemed dignitaries and guests. The event was sponsored by National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC Limited), Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), Manganese Ore India Limited (MOIL), National Building and Construction Company (NBCC Limited), National Thermal Power Corporation Limited (NTPC), GAIL (banner ad support), and IFFCO Nano Urea.
27, Dec 2023
Puneet Dhawan, SVP, Operations, Accor India & South Asia, Reflects on a Year of Exponential Growth
In a transformative and dynamic year, Accor has experienced unprecedented growth, reaffirming our commitment to delivering unparalleled hospitality experiences across India. Throughout 2023, Accor has achieved significant milestones, with key openings contributing a remarkable 860 rooms to our expanding portfolio. The inauguration of the 268-room Novotel Mumbai International Airport in January set the stage for a year marked by excellence.
Subsequent openings, including Ibis Mumbai Thane (186 rooms), Novotel Jodhpur ITI Centre (92 rooms), Ibis Styles Goa Vagator (142 rooms), Grand Mercure Agra (168 rooms) and Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre and Jaipur Exhibition & Convention Centre (222 rooms) have each played a vital role in enhancing Accor’s presence in key locations.
Adding to this list are upcoming launches, with Mercure Chandigarh scheduled to open its doors in 2024, offering 60 rooms to guests seeking a charming local-inspired experience.
Our commitment to growth is further emphasized by recent signings, such as the Grand Mercure Amritsar Airport Road (set to open in 2026), Mercure Lucknow (set to open in 2024), Mercure Rajahmundry City Centre (set to open in 2028), ibis Styles Mysuru (set to open in 2025), Grand Mercure Goa Candolim (set to open in 2024), and ibis Styles & Novotel Bengaluru Airport Varun (set to open in 2027). The signing of Pullman Amritsar (set to open in 2027) underscores our strategic expansion plans and reinforces our dedication to providing diverse and enriching experiences for our guests.
Looking ahead, Accor maintains a robust pipeline for the next two years, with plans to expand our presence in Bhopal, Indore, Bhubaneshwar, and Amritsar, bringing our portfolio of distinct brands to these dynamic cities. Overall, Accor is poised to open 30 new properties in the country in the next 3 to 5 years
Accor’s growth in India is a testament to our commitment to providing unparalleled hospitality experiences. We are thrilled with the accomplishments of 2023 and look forward to continuing this momentum, offering a diverse range of options to our guests and contributing to the vibrant hospitality landscape in India.
Our relentless pursuit of excellence, strategic signings, and ambitious expansion plans solidify our position as a key player in the Indian hospitality sector, promising an exciting and dynamic future for both our brand and our guests.
