Business Today to Host BT Banking and Economy Summit & BT Best Banks Awards, 2026

Mumbai: The BT Banking and Economy Summit & BT Best Banks Awards will be held on Saturday, February 28 with the brightest minds from banking, financial services, policy and academia in attendance. The event is being hosted at the National Stock Exchange Atrium, Exchange Plaza at BKC-Mumbai.As the Chief Guest Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, will also be part of a session on Banking on Infrastructure Growth. He will share his perspective on financing India’s next p

28 Feb 2026 1:38 pm
Fino Payments Bank CEO Rishi Gupta Arrested in GST Probe; CFO Ketan Merchant Takes Charge of Operations

Mumbai: Fino Payments Bank has announced that its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Rishi Gupta, was arrested on February 27 under provisions of the CGST Act, 2017 and the SGST Act, 2017, according to a stock exchange disclosure made on Friday.The lender clarified that the action stems from an ongoing GST investigation linked to certain business partners and does not relate to the bank’s own tax compliance. It emphasised that none of its employees are implicated and that the insti

28 Feb 2026 12:31 pm
Centre bans five OTT platforms over alleged obscene and indecent content

Mumbai: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) has blocked access to five OTT platforms — MoodXVIP, Koyal Playpro, Digi Movieplex, Feel, and Jugnu — for allegedly streaming obscene and indecent content in violation of existing laws.According to government sources cited by news agency ANI, the platforms were found to be hosting content that contravened obscenity provisions under Indian regulations. Acting under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media

28 Feb 2026 12:13 pm
Umesh Guptaa of Bergner India Advocates Healthy Cookware on Sony TV’s MasterChef India Alongside Chef Vikas Khanna

Mumbai: Bergner India marked a significant milestone with its debut appearance on Sony TV’s MasterChef India, as Umesh Guptaa, Managing Director and CEO, joined the celebrated culinary platform to highlight the importance of healthy cookware in Indian kitchens.Sharing the stage with renowned chef Vikas Khanna and the esteemed MasterChef judges, Mr. Guptaa reinforced the idea that while creativity drives great cooking, the right cookware forms its backbone. His presence underscored Bergner’s

28 Feb 2026 12:01 pm
Aadyam Handwoven collaborates with Konkona Sensharma to champion handloom craftsmanship and Artisan livelihoods

Mumbai: Aadyam Handwoven, the corporate social enterprise from the house of Aditya Birla Group, has announced a collaboration with acclaimed actor and filmmaker Konkona Sensharma, as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen handloom craftsmanship and support artisan livelihoods across India.Working closely with weaver communities across Bhuj, Bhadohi Mirzapur, Gadwal, Kashmir, Pochampally, Varanasi, Angara, Pulagurtha and Venkatagiri, Aadyam Handwoven was born from a deep respect for India’s

28 Feb 2026 11:01 am
Binance rolls out ₹2 crore Holi rewards campaign for verified Indian users

Mumbai: Binance, the world’s leading blockchain ecosystem and largest digital asset exchange by trading volume and user base, has announced a ₹2 crore community rewards campaign for its verified Indian users, timed ahead of the festival of Holi. The initiative reinforces Binance’s focus on deepening engagement within India’s fast-growing digital asset community.The month-long campaign, themed #IndiaTurnsYellow, draws inspiration from the festive spirit of Holi and Binance’s iconic yell

28 Feb 2026 10:56 am
Sintex launches new TVC to introduce industry-first 50-year warranty water tank

New Delhi: Sintex, part of Welspun World and a leading manufacturer of water storage solutions in India, has launched a new television campaign announcing Sintex Eterno, an industry-first water storage tank backed by a 50-year warranty. Developed in collaboration with Sideways, the 20-second TVC reinforces the brand promise, “Sintex Sabse Safe Hamesha”, and will be aired on connected TV (CTV) during the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.Marking Sintex’s 50-year milestone, the launch o

28 Feb 2026 10:54 am
Gen X to drive over $500 billion in consumption by FY30: RedSeer Report

Mumbai: RedSeer has highlighted a significant shift in India’s consumption landscape, with Generation X emerging as a powerful yet understated driver of premium and outcomes-led spending. In its latest consumer outlook report titled ‘The Sorted Generation: Gen X as India’s Hidden Consumer Powerhouse’, the firm projects that Gen X will account for over $500 billion in consumption by FY30.According to the report, this growth will be supported by a steady rise in per-capita consumption, pos

28 Feb 2026 10:39 am
Sun Pharma launches ‘Heart ke Liye 8’ nationwide campaign to promote preventive heart health

Mumbai: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited has launched a new nationwide initiative titled ‘Heart ke Liye 8 – Making India Heart Strong’, aimed at encouraging Indians to adopt simple, consistent daily habits to improve heart health.With cardiovascular diseases accounting for nearly one-fifth of global CVD-related deaths originating from India—and increasingly affecting individuals at a younger age—the campaign takes a prevention-first approach. The initiative is structured around ei

28 Feb 2026 10:31 am
Jumeirah and Soursop launch global cultural platform showcasing contemporary Arab creativity

Global: Jumeirah has partnered with creative studio Soursop to launch a new global cultural platform that reframes luxury through the lens of contemporary Arab creativity. The initiative brings together leading voices across art, film and literature, positioning culture as a core pillar of Jumeirah’s evolving brand identity.Conceived and creatively led by Soursop for Jumeirah, the platform takes shape through a major art book titled Where Worlds Meet and a cinematic work, Our Flame. Drawing in

28 Feb 2026 10:30 am
Jumeirah and Soursop launch global cultural platform showcasing contemporary Arab creativity

Global: Jumeirah has partnered with creative studio Soursop to launch a new global cultural platform that reframes luxury through the lens of contemporary Arab creativity. The initiative brings together leading voices across art, film and literature, positioning culture as a core pillar of Jumeirah’s evolving brand identity.Conceived and creatively led by Soursop for Jumeirah, the platform takes shape through a major art book titled Where Worlds Meet and a cinematic work, Our Flame. Drawing in

28 Feb 2026 10:30 am
Zeeba Basmati launches ‘Ramadan Zeeba Hai’ Anthem under new brand campaign Zindagi Zeeba Hai

Mumbai: This Ramadan, Zeeba Basmati Rice has unveiled “Ramadan Zeeba Hai”, a soulful musical tribute celebrating faith, gratitude and togetherness. Released under the brand’s new campaign Zindagi Zeeba Hai, the anthem captures the essence of the holy month through emotion-led storytelling and music.Conceptualised and written by Saumya and Manisha from Maximus Collabs, composed by Mandeep Panghal and rendered in a soulful voice by Shahzad Ali, the song reflects how Ramadan transcends barrie

28 Feb 2026 10:28 am
Kingfisher Premium Packaged Drinking Water partners Karan Aujla’s P POP Culture India Tour 2026

Mumbai: Kingfisher Premium Packaged Drinking Water from United Breweries Limited, part of the HEINEKEN Company, has announced its association as the Co-Presenting Partner of Karan Aujla’s P POP Culture India Tour 2026. The collaboration brings together music, culture and immersive brand experiences, reinforcing Kingfisher’s long-standing “Good Times” philosophy across on-ground and digital touchpoints.As part of the partnership, Kingfisher Premium Packaged Drinking Water will play an int

28 Feb 2026 10:22 am
Charged Pro makes India debut with hand-drawn Anime film rooted in Indian street culture

Mumbai: The Coca-Cola Company has launched Charged Pro in India with a distinctive hand-drawn anime film that blends Indian street culture, sketch art and kinetic storytelling. Positioned as a “super soda” for a generation driven by hustle, focus and ambition, Charged Pro is aimed at Gen Z consumers seeking an energetic edge to stay alert and perform at their peak.Conceptualised by WPP OpenX in partnership with Ogilvy Gurugram, and produced by Hungry Films, the launch film departs from conve

28 Feb 2026 10:20 am
From Commissioned Content to IP Ownership: Why Control Is the New Currency in Media

For years, the Indian content business functioned within a clear structure. Platforms commissioned. Production houses executed. Audiences consumed. The system delivered scale and brought professionalism to television and digital storytelling. It created financial predictability and allowed the ecosystem to expand rapidly.That structure, however, is no longer sufficient for what the industry is becoming.Under the conventional commissioned model, production companies deliver content for a fixed fe

28 Feb 2026 10:06 am
Why High-Performance Marketing Teams Think Like Athletes

A majority percent of digital marketing decisions today are guided by performance data, automation, and real-time optimisation. Yet, access to tools and dashboards alone does not create sustained high performance. The real differentiator lies in how teams think, operate, and respond under pressure.This is where the parallel with athletes becomes striking. Elite athletes do not rely on occasional bursts of effort. They build systems, track progress, adapt to conditions, and stay focused across lo

28 Feb 2026 10:06 am
Home Credit India unveils Holi musical to promote confident financial choices with #KahoEMIKoHaan

Gurugram: Home Credit India, a consumer finance company, has launched its new brand campaign #KahoEMIKoHaan, a Holi-themed musical that encourages consumers to approach credit with confidence and clarity. Rooted in the festive spirit of Holi and aligned with the brand’s philosophy of #ZindagiHit, the campaign aims to shift India’s emotional relationship with credit from hesitation and doubt to smart, empowered financial decision-making.The campaign draws from a culturally resonant insight: w

28 Feb 2026 10:04 am
Britannia 50-50 revives ‘Na Re Naa Naa’ jingle with Rishabh Pant and Jemimah Rodrigues

MUMBAI: There are two kinds of snack lovers. The ones who go all in for the crunch. And the ones who wait for the melt. To celebrate this snack debate, Britannia 50-50 has launched the Cheeze Dipped Crunchy Layered Sandwich, a premium new format that brings both experiences together in one bite.For three decades, Britannia 50-50 has been built on a simple idea of duality, bringing two distinct flavours together in one cracker. With Cheeze Dipped, the idea is to bring alive a 50 percent crunchy a

27 Feb 2026 5:56 pm
Reema Jain Rejoins Unilever as Chief Information Officer

Mumbai: Unilever has appointed Reema Jain as Chief Information Officer (CIO), marking her return to the FMCG major after a previous leadership stint. Jain announced the development in a LinkedIn update, describing the move as an opportunity to accelerate the role of artificial intelligence and technology in shaping the business.An experienced IT and digital transformation leader with over two decades of experience, Jain has led large-scale transformation programmes across global capability centr

27 Feb 2026 5:48 pm
TV serials not just entertainment, but tools for social change: Zee Keralam sets path for new discussions

Kochi: Zee Keralam, the prominent Malayalam entertainment television channel, has adopted a firm stance that the television series telecast on the channel should look beyond entertainment and prove to be a tool for social change.Aimed at accurately addressing social issues, the channel has been delivering strong messages through its popular series like Kudumbasree Sharada and Durga. Unauthorized intrusion by YouTube influencers into personal privacy, especially that of prominent and high-ranking

27 Feb 2026 5:46 pm
Thomas Cook India appoints Subodh Bhave as Brand Ambassador for Maharashtra, launches Marathi Special Holidays

Mumbai: Thomas Cook (India) Limited, an omnichannel travel services company, has announced the launch of its Marathi Special Holidays portfolio and appointed acclaimed Marathi actor Subodh Bhave as its Goodwill Brand Ambassador for the Maharashtra market. The initiative debuts with specially curated Marathi Europe group tours, underscoring the company’s strategic focus on regional personalisation and cultural connect.The move comes as Maharashtra continues to emerge as one of India’s fastest

27 Feb 2026 5:38 pm
Nikita Kandhari expands role to lead Hindi Content Marketing at Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios

Mumbai: Nikita Kandhari has taken on an expanded role, leading Content Marketing for the Hindi slate at Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios, while continuing in her position as Principal – Content Marketing.Announcing the expanded responsibility on LinkedIn, Kandhari said , “I’m excited to share that I’m stepping into an expanded role, leading Content Marketing for the Hindi slate, spanning Original Series, Movies , and Licensed titles at Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios. The past year has

27 Feb 2026 5:28 pm
Jeetendra brings nostalgia and humour to Myntra’s birthday blast campaign

Bengaluru: Fashion, beauty and lifestyle platform Myntra has unveiled a new social media film featuring yesteryear Bollywood superstar Jeetendra as part of its Myntra Birthday Blast campaign, marking the platform’s 19th anniversary with a nostalgic yet contemporary twist.The upcoming edition of Myntra Birthday Blast brings together an expansive selection of over 6 million styles from 20,000-plus brands, while also introducing “return gifts” for shoppers as part of the birthday celebrations

27 Feb 2026 4:48 pm
Hombale Films enters overseas distribution to take Indian cinema global

Mumbai: Leading Indian production house Hombale Films has announced its official entry into the overseas distribution space, marking a significant strategic expansion aimed at taking Indian cinema to a wider global audience.Known for redefining scale and storytelling in Indian cinema with landmark blockbusters such as KGF: Chapter 1, KGF: Chapter 2, Kantara, Kantara: Chapter 1, Salaar: Part 1 – Ceasefire and Mahavatar Narasimha, Hombale Films’ move into international distribution signals a n

27 Feb 2026 4:28 pm
‘Duologue with Barun Das’ returns with Season 4, it is a blockbuster lineup featuring legends

Noida: The fourth season of the much-awaited ‘Duologue with Barun Das’, presented by Radico, returns on Saturday, February 28, 2026. It is an unrivalled lineup that reimagines the idea of cerebral conversations.Building on the acclaim of the earlier three seasons, the Duologue series has been able to transcend from a routine talk show to a platform of ideation built on conversations that speak to our times.All episodes of the upcoming Season, like the ones in the preceding seasons, promise c

27 Feb 2026 4:14 pm
Vivek Raina moves on from Excitel Broadband

Mumbai: Excitel Broadband Co-Founder Vivek Raina has stepped down from his role at the company, marking the end of an over decade-long association that began in 2015.Announcing the decision on LinkedIn, Raina said, “I have decided to leave Excitel Broadband , the company I co-founded and have led for the past 11 years. It has been an incredible journey building Excitel, from the ground up. Over the past decade, we have expanded our fibre network to serve nearly one million users, collaborated

27 Feb 2026 4:07 pm
La Pink drives purpose-led branding with two-phase digital awareness campaign

Mumbai: La Pink, a beauty brand with 100% microplastic-free formulations, has concluded a bold, two-phase digital awareness campaign designed to spark nationwide conversations around online judgement, assumptions, regional bias and responsible digital behaviour.Conceptualised as a socially driven experiment, the campaign unfolded through a gripping narrative that mirrored the realities of instant content consumption. The first phase featured a short video of a young actress documenting a distres

27 Feb 2026 3:46 pm
TVS Apache marks 20 years of racing legacy with ‘The Apache DNA’ anthem

Bengaluru: Premium performance motorcycle brand TVS Apache from TVS Motor Company has released its first-ever official brand anthem, The Apache DNA, marking 20 years of racing dominance and celebrating its 6.5 million-strong global rider community.Turning the iconic exhaust note into the beat of music, the high-octane anthem channels TVS Apache’s racing DNA through sound and storytelling. Composed by acclaimed rapper and songwriter Brodha V, the anthem has been launched across digital platform

27 Feb 2026 3:30 pm
TVS Apache marks 20 years of racing legacy with ‘The Apache DNA’ anthem

Bengaluru: Premium performance motorcycle brand TVS Apache from TVS Motor Company has released its first-ever official brand anthem, The Apache DNA, marking 20 years of racing dominance and celebrating its 6.5 million-strong global rider community.Turning the iconic exhaust note into the beat of music, the high-octane anthem channels TVS Apache’s racing DNA through sound and storytelling. Composed by acclaimed rapper and songwriter Brodha V, the anthem has been launched across digital platform

27 Feb 2026 3:30 pm
Skechers unveils HotShots with Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday fronting Campaign

Mumbai: Skechers, The Comfort Technology Company™, has announced the launch of HotShots, a lifestyle sneaker crafted for a generation that refuses to stand still. Designed to keep pace with everyday movement, the collection brings together comfort-driven technology and bold, street-inspired style in one effortless silhouette.The launch is led by brand ambassadors Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday, who bring the spirit of HotShots to life in a high-energy campaign film. Set against the vibrant pu

27 Feb 2026 2:01 pm
Ranbir Kapoor named Face of SALONI Mustard Oil, SALONI Soya Chunks and STAYFIT Refined Oil; brand targets 25% growth with Pan-India expansion

MUMBAI: Mahesh Edible Oil Industries, a trusted and fast-growing name in India’s edible oil sector, has announced the appointment of Ranbir Kapoor as Brand Ambassador for its flagship brands SALONI (Mustard Oil & Soya Chunks) and STAYFIT (Refined Oil). The association marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards accelerated national brand building and deeper market penetration across India.The partnership aligns with the company’s long-term strategic objectives for FY 202

27 Feb 2026 1:56 pm
Formula 1 and Disney extend ‘Fuel the Magic’ collaboration ahead of 2026 season

Mumbai: Formula 1 and Disney have announced the continuation of their multi-year “Fuel the Magic” collaboration, expanding the partnership ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season that will usher in new regulations, drivers, teams and race locations.First launched at the Heineken Las Vegas Grand Prix in November 2025, the “Fuel the Magic” integration blends storytelling, racing culture, bespoke merchandise and immersive fan experiences at Grand Prix weekends worldwide. The initiative is aimed

27 Feb 2026 1:51 pm
Foxtale onboards Sonali Bendre as the Face of ‘Eternal Glow’ in their latest campaign film

Mumbai: Foxtale has unveiled its latest campaign film centred on the idea of “eternal glow,” onboarding actor Sonali Bendre as the face of the campaign. The collaboration positions Bendre as an embodiment of radiance that transcends age, trends and conventional beauty standards, as she fronts Foxtale’s Gluta-Vit C Advanced Brightening Serum.The campaign takes an intimate, stripped-back storytelling approach, spotlighting Sonali Bendre’s natural luminosity, quiet strength and evolved self

27 Feb 2026 1:36 pm
Milky Mist Targets 2026 IPO, Expects to Sustain 30% Annual Revenue Growth: Dr. K. Rathnam, CEO, Milky Mist

New Delhi: Milky Mist is on track to launch its initial public offering (IPO) in 2026, with the company expecting to sustain around 30% annual revenue growth, according to its chief executive officer.The Tamil Nadu–based dairy and consumer products maker received regulatory approval in October 2025 for an IPO worth ₹2,035 crore ($223.72 million). The proposed listing is part of Milky Mist’s strategy to strengthen its balance sheet and support its next phase of expansion in India’s fast-e

27 Feb 2026 1:04 pm
Titan Smart onboards Badminton Duo Satwik Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty as Brand Ambassadors

Mumbai: Titan Smart has announced India’s leading men’s doubles badminton pair — Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty — as its new brand ambassadors, coinciding with the launch of Titan Celestor 2.0, a high-performance dual-band GPS smartwatch designed for athletes who train with intent.Recipients of the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awards, the duo—popularly known as the Smash Brothers—are celebrated for their on-court chemistry and match-winning rhythm, combining pow

27 Feb 2026 12:28 pm
NDTV.com is India’s Most Visited English News Website in a High-Impact News Month

Mumbai: January was not an ordinary news month. From global power corridors to civic battlegrounds, from climate diplomacy to cricketing rivalries, the news cycle was intense and consequential. And in these conversations, audiences chose one destination, unequivocally - NDTV.com.At the global level, the World Economic Forum in Davos (January 19–23) commanded worldwide attention, sharpening focus on economic strategy and geopolitical shifts.Closer home, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation el

27 Feb 2026 12:18 pm
News18 Marathi ‘Navi Mumbai Conclave’ Spotlights Urban Growth, Infrastructure and Smart City Vision

Mumbai: The News18 Marathi Navi Mumbai Conclave, held on February 19 in Navi Mumbai, brought together policymakers, urban planners, industry leaders and real estate experts for high-impact discussions on the Navi Mumbai and Raigad evolving urban landscape and future-ready development agenda.The conclave served as a platform for dialogue on key themes, including urban development, redevelopment, infrastructure expansion and the roadmap for building smart and sustainable cities across Navi Mumbai

27 Feb 2026 12:01 pm
Nayara Energy rolls out ‘Naye India ka Nayara’ campaign nationwide

Mumbai: Nayara Energy, an integrated downstream energy and petrochemicals company of international scale, has unveiled its new television commercial (TVC), “Naye India ka Nayara.” The campaign brings alive the brand’s promise of reliable energy that fuels an unstoppable India, highlighting Nayara Energy’s role in keeping the country moving every day—without interruption.At the heart of the TVC is the company’s shift from purely functional communication to purpose-driven brand storyte

27 Feb 2026 11:54 am
WPP to operate as ‘single company’ under AI-led Elevate28 reset, says CEO Cindy Rose

London: WPP chief executive Cindy Rose has outlined a sweeping three-year restructuring that will reposition the advertising giant from a traditional holding group into what she described as a unified, AI-native operating company. Speaking to journalists ahead of WPP’s investor presentation on Thursday, Rose said the plan — dubbed Elevate28 — is intended to simplify the network, accelerate growth, and end years of internal complexity that she suggested diluted culture and collaboration.The

27 Feb 2026 11:42 am
Digital and Data assets represented nearly two-thirds of all deals and contributed 57% of total staff added: COMvergence

France: COMvergence has released its Marcom Agency Acquisitions Study 2016–2025, highlighting a decisive structural shift in the global marketing services industry, with Digital and Data accounting for 64% of all marcom acquisitions over the past decade.According to the ten-year analysis, 55 marcom acquisitions were completed globally in 2025, marking a modest rise over 2024 but remaining well below the 2016 peak. While overall deal volumes have structurally declined, 2025 emerged as a landmar

27 Feb 2026 11:27 am
JSW Motors’ Blank-Page Teaser Divides Ad Fraternity on New-Entrant Signalling

Mumbai: JSW Motors Ltd.’s high-visibility newspaper teaser for its upcoming auto foray continues to draw scrutiny from senior marketing and brand leaders, with several CXO-level voices questioning whether the campaign’s minimalist “blank page” device is strategically misaligned for a new automotive entrant actively courting dealer partners.The print execution featured a front-page announcement followed by an intentionally blank inner page—an established creative trope used by legacy or

27 Feb 2026 11:04 am
Wella Professionals unveils Mumbai-inspired ‘Glow From Within’ campaign film

Mumbai: Wella Professionals has unveiled its latest brand campaign film, ‘Glow From Within’, celebrating the launch of the Illumina Color City Collection: Mumbai Edition. The film draws inspiration from Mumbai’s contrasts—ambition and artistry, glamour and quiet resilience—capturing the many moods of the modern woman through a glow-led colour narrative.Conceptualised in-house, the campaign features three signature looks created by Wella India Ambassadors, positioning hair colour as an

27 Feb 2026 10:55 am
Paramount Skydance clinches $111B Warner Bros. Discovery takeover after Netflix walks away

Mumbai: In a dramatic end to one of the biggest media M&A battles in recent years, David Ellison’s Paramount Skydance has secured a deal to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), after Netflix declined to match a sweetened rival offer that the WBD board deemed superior.WBD confirmed Thursday that Paramount Skydance’s revised cash proposal of $31 per share, valuing the media conglomerate at roughly $111 billion including debt, had overtaken Netflix’s earlier agreement. Under the original mer

27 Feb 2026 10:13 am
Short-form video has become our strongest storytelling tool: Yash Kundlia, Oshea Herbals

Oshea Herbals earlier this year marked a milestone in its brand journey with the nationwide rollout of its television commercials across cinema halls, now live on 700+ screens across India. The TVCs are being showcased in selected PVR INOX multiplexes and standalone theatres, in association with UFO Cine Media Network, spanning seven key states.The on-screen presence covers West Bengal, Bihar, Punjab, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala, placing Oshea directly in front of a captiv

27 Feb 2026 10:06 am
The House of Abhinandan Lodha names Kartik Aaryan as Brand Ambassador for ‘Nagpur Marina’

Mumbai: The House of Abhinandan Lodha (HoABL), India’s largest branded land developer, has announced Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan as the brand ambassador for Nagpur Marina, its marquee waterfront plotted development in Nagpur.Kartik Aaryan’s association with HoABL began as an investor, following his purchase of a 2,000 sq ft plot at the company’s Sol-de-Alibaug project. This trust-led relationship has now evolved into a brand endorsement, driven by his conviction in HoABL’s transparency

27 Feb 2026 9:50 am
Why Modern CMOs are Trading Fragmented Tactics for a Single Search Engine

For years the marketing department in India operated like a collection of high-walled kingdoms. You had the SEO team focusing on long-term organic play, the performance team chasing immediate clicks on Google and a social team managing discovery on Instagram. In that world, search was merely a line item on a media plan.But by 2026 these walls have become a significant strategic liability. Modern CMOs are moving toward a unified model where search is no longer viewed as a set of fragmented tactic

27 Feb 2026 9:40 am
Calvin Klein launches Spring 2026 denim campaign featuring Jung Kook

Mumbai: Calvin Klein Inc., part of PVH Corp., has announced the launch of its Spring 2026 denim campaign, starring global brand ambassador Jung Kook of the globally renowned K-pop group BTS.Directed and shot by acclaimed fashion photographer Mert Alas, the new campaign sharpens the spotlight on denim as the ultimate expression of personal style. Framed through Jung Kook’s distinctive and influential point of view, the film captures the pop icon living fully in the moment, bringing together fas

26 Feb 2026 6:03 pm
UPKL Television Reach for Season 2 clocks 120% growth

Mumbai: SJ Uplift Kabaddi’s Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL) garnered strong viewership for its matches in Season 2. With Zee Entertainment as the exclusive Broadcast Partner, Season 2 was aired in Hindi and English on Zee Anmol Cinema 2 and &Pictures HD and was hosted at the Noida Indoor Stadium.Season 2 witnessed 120% growth with a cumulative reach of 40 million across India (2+). The AMA (Average Minute Audience) was 90.8 for Season 2 (2+), reinforcing the growing popularity, appeal and

26 Feb 2026 5:54 pm
Shruthi Subramanian named D&AD 2026 Jury for Writing for Advertising

Chennai: Shruthi Subramanian, Associate Creative Director at Amsterdam-based LePub, has been appointed to the jury of the prestigious D&AD Awards 2026 in the Writing for Advertising category—marking another global recognition for one of the industry’s most awarded copywriters.Subramanian, currently based in Amsterdam, has built an international reputation for innovation-led creative work spanning accessibility, healthcare, sustainability and science communication. Her appointment to the D&AD

26 Feb 2026 5:53 pm
OTTplay unveils ‘ISKO HARA RE!’ print campaign for India vs Zimbabwe match

New Delhi: As cricket fever builds ahead of the much-anticipated India vs Zimbabwe T20 clash, OTTplay has unveiled an innovative print campaign titled “ISKO HARA RE!”, turning match-day anticipation into a bold front-page fan anthem. Known for its sharp moment-marketing approach, OTTplay is stepping beyond conventional advertising to become an active participant in the national cricket conversation.The campaign has been executed across leading Hindi and English newspapers, Hindustan and Hind

26 Feb 2026 5:32 pm
The Advertising Club refreshes brand identity to reinforce industry leadership

Mumbai: The Advertising Club (TAC) has unveiled a refreshed brand identity, marking a defining milestone in its 71-year legacy. The new identity reinforces TAC’s credibility while sharpening its role in an increasingly dynamic and fast-evolving marketing and advertising ecosystem. The transformation has been created in partnership with leading global brand specialists, Landor.For decades, TAC has played a pivotal role in shaping India’s marketing landscape through its iconic platforms, indus

26 Feb 2026 5:01 pm
EFGH Brand Innovations names Tanvi Sanghi as Executive Creative Director

New Delhi: EFGH Brand Innovations has announced the appointment of Tanvi Sanghi as its new Executive Creative Director (ECD). A highly regarded creative leader with a strong design foundation, Sanghi brings award-winning experience, sharp conceptual thinking, craft excellence, and confident leadership to the agency.Sanghi has previously worked at Ogilvy, where she contributed to building impactful brand narratives across categories, strengthening her ability to blend global brand thinking with c

26 Feb 2026 4:58 pm
Bombay HC Quashes ₹400-Crore Personal GST Penalties on Shemaroo Executives

Mumbai: In a significant ruling clarifying the scope of personal liability under GST law, the Bombay High Court has set aside nearly ₹400 crore in penalties imposed by GST authorities on three senior executives of Shemaroo Entertainment Ltd, holding that employees acting in their official capacity cannot be treated as “taxable persons” under the Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Act.The court allowed writ petitions filed by Chief Financial Officer Amit Manilal Haria, Chief Executive Of

26 Feb 2026 4:44 pm
SMFG India Credit unveils new brand anthem film ‘Chal Pado, Aage Badho’

Mumbai: SMFG India Credit has unveiled its new brand anthem film “Chal Pado, Aage Badho,” a high-energy celebration of progress, partnership, and shared purpose. Set within the dynamic environment of the company’s workplace, the film underscores how progress is powered by collective momentum and SMFG India Credit’s philosophy of becoming SARVOTTAM – Rise to be the best.Rooted in the spirit of “Pragati,” the campaign brings together employees across functions and levels—from teams

26 Feb 2026 4:42 pm
PM Modi becomes first world leader to cross 100 million Instagram followers; tops global approval rankings

Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has crossed 100 million followers on Instagram, becoming the first world leader and politician to achieve the milestone on the platform. Officials said the feat underscores Modi’s sustained digital dominance and global influence across social media ecosystems.Modi, who joined Instagram in 2014, has built one of the most engaged accounts among global political leaders over the past decade. With over 100 million followers, he now has more than twice the Insta

26 Feb 2026 4:39 pm
JBL India rolls out new digital campaign featuring Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips

Mumbai: JBL India has launched its new digital campaign, “Fighting For The Right Voices,” featuring New Zealand cricketers Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips, amid the peak of the global cricket season. The campaign celebrates inner resilience and the ability to tune out external noise during moments of intense pressure.Unveiled at a time when cricket fever and global expectations are at their highest, the campaign draws parallels between the intensity of international sport and everyday batt

26 Feb 2026 4:34 pm
Fifty5Blue emerges as new identity for Kantar Media following H.I.G. Capital acquisition

Mumbai: Kantar Media has officially rebranded as Fifty5Blue, marking a strategic reset after its separation from Kantar Group and acquisition by private equity firm H.I.G. Capital in August 2025. The new brand signals the company’s transition into an independent global measurement and analytics player positioned to address the complexities of a fragmented, data-rich media landscape.The company said Fifty5Blue will continue serving advertisers, agencies, media owners and social platforms with a

26 Feb 2026 4:26 pm
Times Now Navbharat leads Hindi news OTS in Week 7’26: Chrome DM Report

Mumbai: Chrome DM has released its latest Opportunity to See (OTS) report for Week 7’26 (February 14–20), offering a detailed snapshot of channel availability and distribution across Hindi and English news channels in India. Hindi News Channels The report highlights strong distribution reach across leading Hindi news networks, led by Times Now Navbharat with an OTS of 98.37%. This was followed by ABP News at 97.36%, India TV at 92.77%, Republic Bharat at 89.84%, and TV9 Bharatvarsh at 87.24%

26 Feb 2026 4:25 pm
Britannia Toastea unveils winter campaign highlighting the classic chai–Toastea ritual

Mumbai: Britannia Toastea, one of India’s most loved rusk brands, has rolled out its Winter Campaign across North India, celebrating the timeless ritual of chai and Toastea—a pairing that comes alive most vividly during the cold winter months.Conceptualised by Schbang, the campaign draws from a simple cultural truth: in winter, comfort is found in small, familiar rituals. At railway stations and roadside tapris—spaces where conversations brew as naturally as tea—Britannia Toastea brings

26 Feb 2026 4:19 pm
News18 Gujarati’s ‘Pride of Saurashtra’ highlights region’s role in Gujarat’s growth

Ahmedabad: News18 Gujarati successfully hosted the “Pride of Saurashtra” event on February 23 in Ahmedabad, bringing together industry leaders, educationists, legal experts, and entrepreneurs for insightful discussions on the region’s growing contribution to Gujarat’s development.The event was graced by the state’s Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi as the chief guest. Addressing the audience, he highlighted the importance of Saurashtra in Gujarat’s overall growth story and highligh

26 Feb 2026 3:36 pm
Confiance Communications wins India PR mandate for The Ocean Cleanup

Gurugram: Integrated communications agency Confiance Communications has secured the India public relations mandate for The Ocean Cleanup, the globally renowned non-profit organisation dedicated to eliminating plastic pollution from the world’s oceans.Under the partnership, Confiance Communications will lead end-to-end strategic narrative development at both national and regional levels to build engagement for The Ocean Cleanup’s India operations. The agency will focus on driving high-impact

26 Feb 2026 2:01 pm
MSM Unify names Nikhil Sharda as Assistant Vice President – Brand & Marketing

Gurugram: MSM Unify, a leading global education company and part of Laul Global, has announced the appointment of Nikhil Sharda as Assistant Vice President – Brand & Marketing.With over two decades of experience across brand strategy, digital transformation, creative communications and integrated marketing, Sharda brings a strong blend of strategic thinking and creative leadership to MSM Unify. In his new role, he will oversee brand design, lead all marketing and digital operations including p

26 Feb 2026 1:58 pm
WPP unveils ‘Elevate28’ strategy to simplify structure, integrate AI-led offer and restore growth by 2028

London: Global marketing and communications major WPP has announced a multi-year transformation plan titled Elevate28, aimed at simplifying its organisational structure, integrating its client proposition and restoring sustainable growth in the AI-driven marketing era.Under the plan, WPP will transition from a traditional holding company model to a single integrated operating company, organised into four core business units — WPP Media, WPP Creative, WPP Production and WPP Enterprise Solutions

26 Feb 2026 1:58 pm
Crompton expands South India presence with high-impact OOH campaign

Mumbai: Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Limited has partnered with WPP Media to roll out a large-scale out-of-home (OOH) campaign for its Crompton Lighting portfolio across South India. The high-impact outdoor initiative spans Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, reinforcing Crompton’s focus on deepening its market presence in the region.The campaign is part of Crompton’s broader strategy to drive stronger brand recall and product awareness in key southern markets. The

26 Feb 2026 1:43 pm
World Creativity & Innovation Council launches nationwide citizen-led movement in India

Mumbai: At a time when India is navigating rapid social, cultural and economic change, the World Creativity & Innovation Council (WCIW.org) has issued a nationwide call for collective participation through its upcoming WCIW Celebrations, positioning them not as a single-day observance but as a people-driven movement anchored in care, inclusion and shared responsibility.Planned between April 15 and 21, the WCIW Celebrations aim to bring together citizens across metros and small towns, students an

26 Feb 2026 1:42 pm
BIG FM hosts 4th edition of BIG Impact Awards Mumbai, honouring the city’s most impactful businesses and leaders

Mumbai: BIG FM, a single-brand radio network, hosted the 4th edition of the BIG Impact Awards Mumbai, celebrating inspiring entrepreneurs, business leaders and changemakers shaping the city’s growth. The ceremony was held at Sahara Star, bringing together influential voices from business, governance and entertainment under one roof.The event was graced by Chief Guests Ashish Shelar, Minister of Cultural Affairs, Government of Maharashtra, and Ritu Rajesh Tawde, Mayor of Mumbai, who felicitated

26 Feb 2026 1:15 pm
Lilly rolls out integrated obesity awareness initiative featuring Indian film personalities

New Delhi: Eli Lilly and Company (India) has announced the next phase of its integrated obesity awareness initiative with the launch of a new campaign aimed at reshaping how obesity is perceived and discussed in India. The campaign seeks to move the public discourse away from judgment and appearance-led narratives towards science, empathy and informed medical guidance.Led by well-known Indian personalities, the campaign blends lived experiences with science-led perspectives to challenge obesity-

26 Feb 2026 1:01 pm
ASCI launches first influencer-led consumer awareness campaign on greenwashing and dark patterns

Mumbai: The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) has launched its first-ever influencer-led consumer awareness campaign to highlight the growing concerns of greenwashing and dark patterns—two practices increasingly shaping and manipulating consumer choice in the digital age. The initiative is part of ASCI Academy’s broader agenda to help consumers navigate advertising in a more informed and responsible manner.Through this campaign, ASCI aims to educate consumers on questioning susta

26 Feb 2026 12:47 pm
Celebrating the He-Man with a gentle soul: Mithoon & Palak Muchhal pay a Musical Tribute to Dharmendra at Maruti Suzuki presents 24th Zee Cine Awards 2026

Mumbai: Indian cinema will take center stage in a spectacular fashion at the Maruti Suzuki presents 24th Zee Cine Awards 2026, a night that will celebrate talent, emotion, and the enduring bond between stars and their fans. As music will take center stage, and voices rising in homage, the timeless legacy of the late Dharmendra Ji will be beautifully honored through a heartfelt tribute performance by Mithoon and Palak Muchhal, capturing the true spirit and impact of his remarkable journey. Audien

26 Feb 2026 12:41 pm
Oriflame India appoints Karishma Tanna as Brand Face for NovAge+ and Supreme Tribute Ezzénza

Mumbai: Oriflame India, the Swedish holistic beauty and wellbeing brand, has announced actor Karishma Tanna as the face of its premium NovAge+ advanced skincare range and Supreme Tribute Ezznza fragrance. The collaboration reflects Oriflame’s focus on strengthening its premium skincare and fragrance portfolio in India, as consumers increasingly seek performance-led beauty solutions rooted in credibility and consistency.Developed at Oriflame’s Skin Research Institute in Sweden, the NovAge+ ra

26 Feb 2026 12:32 pm
Companion Labs Secures $2.5 Million Seed Round Led by Peak XV’s Surge

Bengaluru: Companion Labs, a consumer AI company building interactive, entertainment-led experiences for India’s vernacular and culturally diverse audiences, has raised $2.5 million in seed funding led by Peak XV’s Surge, with participation from All in Capital, UntitledVC, DeVC and several angel investors.The announcement follows Companion Labs’ participation at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi last week, where the company was featured at the summit’s flagship Impact AI Pitch

26 Feb 2026 12:13 pm
PM Modi to Headline News18 Rising Bharat Summit 2026

New Delhi: India’s evolving global stature and growing strategic influence will take centre stage as News18 Network, India’s leading multi-platform news network, hosts the Rising Bharat Summit 2026, the most prestigious thought leadership forum, on February 27–28, 2026, in New Delhi from 10 AM onwards.The flagship event brings together policymakers, global diplomats, business leaders, strategists, innovators, and cultural icons for high-impact conversations shaping the future of Bharat.Anc

26 Feb 2026 11:40 am
Alaukik Group elevates GM Group’s brand narrative with Pratik Gandhi campaign

Surat: Alaukik Group, a 360-degree creative agency, has launched a celebrity-led brand campaign featuring acclaimed actor Pratik Gandhi for GM Group, a Gujarat-based industrial park developer. The association marks a significant step in strengthening GM Group’s brand presence and visibility within the industrial real estate sector.The strategic alliance, conceptualised and executed entirely by Alaukik Group, represents a landmark celebrity integration for GM Group and signals a new phase in in

26 Feb 2026 11:32 am
Pizza Hut amplifies Crafted Flatzz launch with creator-led film featuring Niharika NM

New Delhi: Building on the national launch of its newly introduced Crafted Flatzz, Pizza Hut has strengthened its digital conversation with a creator-led film featuring digital creator and actor Niharika NM. The influencer collaboration has been conceptualised and executed by Defodio Digital, Pizza Hut’s digital strategy and influencer marketing partner.Known for her sharp comedic timing and strong connect with digital audiences, Niharika NM brings her signature personality to the film, presen

26 Feb 2026 11:25 am
Youthbeat bags Myntra Style Squad campaign for influencer-driven fashion storytelling

Mumbai: Youthbeat, the youth and creator-focused division of SW Network, has won the Myntra Style Squad campaign. As part of the mandate, Youthbeat will curate and manage a dedicated squad of top fashion influencers to deliver creator-led, fashion-forward content for Myntra.Under the engagement, Youthbeat will build and manage a group of creators spanning fashion, lifestyle and youth culture. The campaign will focus on authentic storytelling that reflects current trends and aligns with how young

26 Feb 2026 11:21 am
upGrad acquires Internshala in strategic move to integrate skilling and employment

Mumbai: upGrad, an integrated skilling and workforce development company, has announced the acquisition of Internshala, the world’s largest early-talent marketplace, for an undisclosed amount in a 90% stock-swap transaction.The acquisition significantly strengthens upGrad’s presence across the full career lifecycle by integrating education, skilling and employment on a single platform. Founded in 2010, Internshala has built a community of over 34 million registered users and 450,000 employer

26 Feb 2026 11:14 am
Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail names Pranchal Srivastava as Chief Business Officer – The Collective and International Brands

Mumbai: Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Limited (ABFRL) has announced the appointment of Pranchal Srivastava as Chief Business Officer, The Collective and International Brands.A seasoned business leader with over 15 years of global experience across consumer businesses, fashion, retail and strategic consulting, Srivastava brings deep expertise in scaling and transforming businesses across diverse and complex markets.In his new role, Srivastava will lead strategic growth, business expansion and b

26 Feb 2026 11:13 am
Verve Media bags Digital Mandate for Vedas Fund

Mumbai: Verve Media, an integrated digital marketing agency, has won the digital marketing mandate for Vedas Fund, an investment firm focused on long-term value creation.As part of the mandate, Verve Media will manage Vedas Fund’s LinkedIn-focused social media marketing and search engine optimisation (SEO). The agency has also designed and developed a new website to strengthen the fund’s digital presence. Built to reflect Vedas Fund’s investment philosophy, the website offers a clear, prof

26 Feb 2026 10:53 am
MiQ helps Indian brands scale globally amid shifting advertising dynamics

Mumbai: As global trade dynamics continue to evolve, MiQ, a global programmatic leader, is working closely with Indian brands to help them drive international business success by building and leveraging advertising opportunities across global markets. With a direct presence in more than 20 countries, MiQ is enabling Indian enterprises to secure sustainable, long-term international growth.Indian businesses are scaling rapidly, and expanding beyond domestic boundaries has become a natural next ste

26 Feb 2026 10:47 am
The future of marketing in direct selling will be driven by depth, not just reach: Trevor Kuna, QNET

The global direct selling and consumer entrepreneurship landscape is entering a defining phase, where resilience, trust, and community-led commerce are proving to be more critical than rapid scale or short-term growth metrics.Despite ongoing global economic shifts, the recently released World Federation of Direct Selling Associations (WFDSA) 2024 STATS Report highlights that the direct selling industry has remained steady worldwide, underscoring the strength of relationship-driven business model

26 Feb 2026 10:13 am
Assembly Global appoints Manoj Kandasamy as Managing Director for India

*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))] dir=auto tabindex=-1 data-turn-id= equest-WEB:915dd8fd-5e27-43d4-977f-a53d622a7a33-8 data-testid=conversation-turn-6 data-scroll-anchor= rue data-turn=assistant> Mumbai: Assembly Global, a Stagwell network company, has named Manoj Kandasamy as Managing Director, India, placing him in charge of the agency’s overall business and growth strategy in the market. He will be based in Bengaluru and oversee strateg

26 Feb 2026 10:02 am
Truecaller ties up with Integrated Media Tech to expand direct ad sales across Bharat

New Delhi: Truecaller, the global communications platform, has announced a strategic reseller partnership with Integrated Media Tech Pvt. Ltd., a Srishti Media Group company, to strengthen and scale the monetisation and advertising ecosystem for Truecaller Ads across Bharat, with a special focus on tier-2 markets.As part of the collaboration, Integrated Media Tech Pvt. Ltd. will support the expansion of Truecaller’s advertising business by enabling brands and agencies across Bharat to leverage

26 Feb 2026 9:55 am
From Campus Rivalries to National Leagues: Building India’s College Esports Future

India’s esports market is expanding rapidly, but its long-term sustainability will depend on how effectively it builds grassroots pathways. While professional leagues, creator-driven tournaments, and mobile gaming dominance have pushed esports into mainstream business conversations, one high-potential segment remains underdeveloped: colleges and universities.From hostel room rivalries to inter-college championships, campus esports can become the foundation of India’s future talent and fan pi

26 Feb 2026 9:55 am
SonyLIV expands Suvonkar Banerjee’s remit to lead Hindi Originals alongside Studio NEXT role

Mumbai: SonyLIV has broadened the mandate of Suvonkar Banerjee, tasking him with leading Hindi Originals for the streaming platform while he continues as Creative Director at Studio NEXT. The move consolidates creative oversight of SonyLIV’s Hindi content pipeline under a single leadership structure, as the platform sharpens its originals strategy. Banerjee will now steer the development and creative direction of SonyLIV’s Hindi originals slate in addition to guiding Studio NEXT’s creative

26 Feb 2026 9:44 am
Serena Menon joins Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios as APAC Communications Head; Ananta Das exits

Mumbai: Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios have appointed Serena Menon to lead communications across the Asia-Pacific region, even as Ananta Das steps down from her role as Head – Brand PR for Prime Video India & APAC, marking a senior-level transition in the streamer’s regional communications leadership. Menon, who recently moved on from Netflix India where she served as Head of PR (Director, PR India), will join Prime Video & Amazon MGM Studios to head the APAC communications teams spannin

26 Feb 2026 9:36 am
Zakka Jacob to Join Times Now as Managing Editor; Earlier Stepped Back from Editorial Leadership at Network18

New Delhi: Senior television journalist Zakka Jacob is set to exit Network18 and join Times Now as Managing Editor in April, according to highly placed industry sources. His move comes a few months after a key internal realignment at Network18 in December 2025, when Jacob transitioned from day-to-day newsroom leadership to a primarily editorial and on-air role. At the time of his exit, Jacob held the designation of Senior Anchor & Group Foreign Affairs Editor (in the grade of Managing Editor) at

26 Feb 2026 9:25 am