The best advertising doesn’t interrupt culture,  it becomes part of it. Across 15+ brands in January and February 2026, Schbang found where brand truth and cultural moments collided,  from AI summits and cricket rivalries to gully pitches, winter tapris, and anime fandoms. The result was some of the most talked-about work of the year so far.

1. Fevicol Had the Perfect Response to the Two Tech Billionaires, And the Internet Loved It

At the India AI Impact Summit on February 19, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei stood side by side  and awkwardly dodged a unity handshake. Within hours, Schbang stepped in. Digitally, they glued their hands together. Five sharp words: “Asli Intelligence judne mein hai.” A globally trending moment, reframed in real time. No overthinking. No overproduction. Just cultural speed, sharp insight, and a line only Fevicol could own. Classic.

2. Britannia Toastea Film Real People at Real Tapris , and It Worked

No actors. No staged moments. Just foggy railway platforms, winter mornings, and chaiwalas calling out, “Chai, chai, chai… saath mein lelo Toastea.” Britannia Toastea’s North India winter campaign didn’t script nostalgia, it stepped into it. By showing up in spaces already steeped in ritual and routine, the brand became part of a moment that felt lived-in and real. It wasn’t added to the ritual, it belonged there. The Britannia Karari Shuruaat film complemented this by celebrating the crisp energy of winter mornings, positioning Toastea as the bite that kickstarts the day.

3. RiteBite Max Protein Made People Literally Walk Towards Their Fitness Goals

India’s first walkable protein awareness campaign turned city streets into a call to action. Bold yellow-and-black footsteps, inspired by metro wayfinding, led commuters step by step toward protein pledge kiosks. Built on a stark insight that over 60% of urban Indians don’t meet their daily protein RDA, the idea was simple but powerful: if awareness isn’t moving people, make people move toward awareness. Not just a message you scroll past, but a path you physically follow.

4. Britannia The Laughing Cow Cheese Solved the Snack-Time Standoff

Cheese triangles, finally claiming the centre of the plate. With a playful household debate and a clever nod to geometry, “Snacking Ka New Angle” reframed how the category was seen. Not an add-on. Not just a spread. But a ready-to-eat snack in its own right. By shifting the perspective, the campaign shifted behaviour, turning a once-occasional extra into an easy, anytime bite.

5. Tiger Shroff Made Orthopedic Braces Cool

Leeford Ortho’s ‘Fit Raho, Hit Raho’ campaign featuring Tiger Shroff and Varun Sharma flipped the narrative on orthopedic support. What was once seen as a medical afterthought was repositioned as a proactive lifestyle choice, something you wear to stay in the game, not sit out of it. Schbang led the shift from the ground up, defining the brand’s positioning, creative voice, and even its very first advertising words. The result wasn’t just a campaign launch, but the foundation of how the brand would speak, stand, and move going forward.

6. Kotak811 Launched a Metal Debit Card Like It Was a Luxury Fashion Drop

A three-phase, full-funnel rollout. Contextual placements across Uber, Rapido, Zomato, and Blinkit. Minimal, design-forward social. High-impact outdoor that felt impossible to ignore. The Kotak811 Infinity Metal Debit Card wasn’t just introduced, it was embedded into everyday moments of movement, dining, and travel. More than a banking product, it was positioned as a lifestyle marker. Metal in your wallet. Lounge access in your itinerary. Dining perks on your table. Not just a card, a cue that you’ve arrived. Anchored by a sharp launch film and supported by a 360° showcase of its master visual across platforms, the campaign carried one cohesive design language from screens to streets.

7. Tata Capital Took Women’s Cricket Back to the Gully

#ChampionsKiGulliyonMein celebrated a simple, powerful truth: champions aren’t discovered under stadium lights, they’re shaped in the gullies. As more girls step onto pitches across India, claiming space that wasn’t always offered to them, Tata Capital positioned itself as the brand that backs belief early. Before the trophies. Before the headlines. In the narrow lanes, dusty grounds, and first brave swings, where real champions begin.

8. iQOO Used Behavioral Science to Fight Failed New Year’s Resolutions

Most resolutions fade before the month even begins. iQOO’s #First21DaysofQuest campaign tapped into a simple behavioural insight, it takes 21 days to build a habit and turned it into a movement around daily consistency. Anchored in the brand’s “I Quest On and On” philosophy, it shifted the narrative from overnight transformation to sustained pursuit. No grand promises. Just 21 days of showing up. And that made all the difference.

9. Britannia Treat Creme Wafers Let Naruto Fans Earn Their Snacks

A Naruto collaboration built on a simple truth: it’s not just the big victories that matter, it’s the small ones that keep you going. Just like Naruto earns his ramen after every mission, Treat became the reward for everyday brilliance. Scan the pack. Perform your Jutsu. Unlock exclusive merch. Each pack wasn’t just a snack, it was a badge of progress. A small win, recognised.

10. Bridgestone India Spoke to Car Enthusiasts in Their Real Language: Music

In North India, a car isn’t just transport, it’s identity. And nothing amplifies identity like music. Bridgestone India tapped into that truth with its first Punjabi music collaboration, partnering with Parmish Verma to tell a story the culture instantly understood. The film didn’t talk about tyres in technical terms,  it translated performance into attitude. Not just tyres that function, but tyres that perform. Because on roads where presence matters, performance isn’t optional, it’s personal.

11. Motorola India Hid a Concierge Inside a Smartphone

A still figure at Jio World Drive, Mumbai. One line — “Hello Moto Signature.” And everything shifts. Music rises. Lights change. Experiences unfold. The Motorola Signature campaign didn’t just launch India’s first Signature Club smartphone. It turned a voice command into a moment, a quiet trigger that unlocked a world of live music, fine dining, and bespoke detail.. Beyond features. Pure feeling. Luxury, the moment you ask for it

12. London Dairy Proved Romance Doesn’t Need a Reservation

A couple debating what the night should become. Big plans? Maybe. Or maybe not. The fridge opens. Two spoons appear. One tub of London Dairy and the decision is made. The campaign cleverly shifted the narrative: London Dairy wasn’t positioned as a grand, occasion-only indulgence, but as the upgrade to an ordinary evening. No reservations. No overplanning. Just a shared scoop that turns “What should we do?” into “This is perfect.” It reframed the brand as the quiet hero of everyday romance, proof that sometimes, the smallest plans feel like more than enough. 

13. Indriya Jewels Made Dumb Charades Feel Like a Love Story

Soha Ali Khan and Kunal Kemmu. A game of Dumb Charades. No dialogue. No dramatic declarations. Just glances, smiles, and effortless understanding. Indriya Jewels’ Valentine’s Day film turned the game into a metaphor for real companionship, the kind where you don’t need words because you already know. Every correct guess felt less like a win and more like proof of a bond built over time. And at the heart of it all sat the jewellery, not as a prop, but as a quiet symbol of love that deepens, settles, and shines brighter with every shared moment.

14. Maybelline’s Lipstick That Stole the Audition

Farah Khan is judging an audition. Sahher Banbba is giving her all. But she’s not watching the performance, she’s watching the lipstick. One perfect swipe, one glossy close-up, and that’s it. The Maybelline Serum Lipstick launch worked because it didn’t announce the product, it staged a moment where the product became the punchline. Playful. Self-aware. Scroll-stopping. It trusted the finish to do what great beauty always does: steal focus without asking for it. Sometimes, the strongest sell isn’t a claim. It’s a reaction.

15. Dr. Reddy’s Turned a Complex Disease Into a Simple, Urgent Message

With ‘Vaccination Zaroori Hai’, Dr. Reddy tackled the low awareness around Meningococcal Meningitis, a disease that can turn fatal within 24 hours and affects a life every two minutes globally. Built on a sharp contrast—difficult to treat, easy to prevent—the campaign translated medical urgency into a clear parental call-to-action. Backed by real doctors, real stories, and even an AI-powered MeningeAware chatbot, it didn’t just inform parents of children aged 0–2 years, it empowered them to act before it’s too late.

16. Specta Quartz Surfaces Turned Surfaces Into Stories

With ‘Stories Cast in Stone’, Specta Quartz Surfaces moved beyond product features to celebrate the journeys behind creative mastery. Featuring Masaba Gupta, Ranveer Brar, Joseph Radhik, and Sudarshan Patnaik, the Schbang-conceptualised campaign drew a parallel between quartz shaped under pressure and artists refined over time. Anchored in the brand’s philosophy of “Imagination Cast in Stone,” it positioned Specta not just as a luxury surface, but as a canvas for resilience, craft, and enduring excellence.

17. Metro Shoes Stepped Into Spontaneity With Its New Boots Film

The film begins with a ring,  a small, familiar trigger. And just like that, she’s in motion. What unfolds is a fluid showcase of the new Metro boots collection, where every step feels assured, effortless, and full of intent. By anchoring the story in an everyday spark of spontaneity, the narrative reframes the boots as more than seasonal essentials,  they become symbols of confidence, versatility, and the kind of style that moves when you do.

18. Where Pro Performance Meets Pro Care: WPL x L’Oréal Professionnel

Built around the thought #ProsMeetThePros, the campaign tapped into the cultural momentum of the Women’s Premier League to draw a sharp parallel between elite sport and professional-grade haircare. When performance is non-negotiable, only pro standards make the cut. The idea positioned L’Oréal Professionnel as a brand engineered for pressure, precision, and peak moments, aligning the intensity of the pitch with the expertise behind the chair, through integrated digital and on-ground storytelling.

19. Voltas’ AI AC That “Understands India”

With “AC Jo India Ko Samjhe,” Voltas introduced the Zest AI AC range through a warm, slice-of-life narrative featuring Neetu and Ranbir Kapoor. The campaign plays on a familiar truth, that while AI claims to know everything, no one understands you quite like family. Through light humour and relatable moments, the films bring the product’s intelligent features to life: AI Adaptive Cooling that learns user behaviour, Energy Manager Mode that optimises power usage, and Geofencing that prepares the room before you arrive. Instead of presenting technology as complex, the campaign makes it feel instinctive, positioning Voltas as the AC that truly understands Indian homes.

20. Britannia Treat Croissant Threw a Birthday Party for a Pastry

Instead of quietly marking National Croissant Day, Britannia Treat Croissant turned it into a full-blown birthday celebration. Streets filled with music, dancing crowds, and a life-sized croissant leading the procession, like the kind of birthday rally India instinctively understands. The idea was simple: if India celebrates everything with a birthday, why not a croissant? By transforming the occasion into a cultural moment, the brand made the category feel familiar, fun, and impossible to ignore, turning a French pastry into something that felt completely at home on Indian streets.

21. Britannia Toastea’s ‘Karari Shuruaat’ Turned a Reel Into a Brand Story

What began as a simple vertical reel evolved into something bigger,  a film built to live as a long-term brand asset. Karari Shuruaat captured the feeling of that first chai break of the day, positioning Toastea not just as a snack, but as the crisp companion to a quiet moment of me-time. The story reflected India’s diversity with characters from both North and South India, and was later adapted into Bengali and Tamil. Even the word “Karaari” was treated as a feeling rather than a literal translation, becoming “Daarun” in Bengali to preserve the emotion of that perfect chai-time moment.

The Through-Line

From a viral moment at an AI summit to the quiet ritual of dunking rusk in chai, what connected all twenty one  campaigns was one discipline: finding where brand truth and cultural truth overlap, then showing up there with precision. That’s a Schbang moment.

SANDTON, South Africa, Mar 5/ — As Africa’s oil and gas sector gathers unprecedented momentum — buoyed by major discoveries, renewed exploration campaigns and intensifying global demand for diversified supply — the African Energy Chamber (AEC) (https://EnergyChamber.org) has sharpened a parallel and increasingly vocal campaign: ensuring that Africa’s energy renaissance is not built on exclusion. In a firm public statement that has reverberated across industry circles, the Chamber declared that as Africa’s oil and gas sector expands, investment must “guarantee African participation, reject discrimination and uphold local content.” It warned that in the coming weeks it will engage African officials and industry leaders to secure “clear commitments to inclusive hiring and equal opportunity,” adding pointedly that “where progress is absent, we will exercise our lawful right to protest.” The message marks the latest escalation in what has become a sustained, multi-year advocacy push targeting global conference organizers and industry platforms that derive significant revenue from African markets but, according to the AEC, fail to reflect Africa in their leadership structures. A Campaign Years in the Making The current confrontation did not emerge overnight. Over the past several years, the AEC has issued multiple press releases, public letters and statements addressing what it describes as systemic exclusion within certain international energy forums. Among those most frequently cited are Frontier Energy Network, organizer of the Africa Energies Summit in London, and Hyve Group, a global exhibitions firm with significant exposure to African-focused extractive industry events. In successive communications dating back several conference cycles, the Chamber has called for structural reform, urging these entities to hire, promote and empower African professionals — including Black women — into senior executive and board-level positions. The AEC argues that while African ministers, national oil companies, regulators and indigenous firms are prominently featured on stage at major summits, decision-making power within the organizing companies remains largely non-African. To reinforce its position, the Chamber has publicly circulated graphics highlighting what it says is the near absence of Africans on boards and executive leadership teams of these organizations — despite the fact that a substantial portion of sponsorship revenue, delegate participation and thematic focus centers on Africa. For the AEC, this disconnect is not symbolic — it is structural. NJ Ayuk: “Inclusion Is Not Optional” Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk has been at the forefront of the campaign, framing it as a matter of principle rather than rivalry. “Africa’s energy future cannot be dictated from boardrooms that do not include Africans,” Ayuk has said in connection with the Chamber’s recent statements. “If you are making substantial revenue from African markets, hosting Africa-focused events and leveraging African participation, then Africans must be part of your leadership and governance structures.” He has consistently rejected the notion that the campaign is confrontational for its own sake. Instead, he presents it as aligned with the continent’s local content laws and sovereignty agenda. “We are not asking for favors. We are demanding fairness, merit-based opportunity and respect. Africa cannot champion local content at home while tolerating exclusion abroad.” Frontier Energy Network in the Spotlight In its most recent release on exclusion, the Chamber directly cited Frontier Energy Network, reigniting scrutiny around the Africa Energies Summit. The AEC contends that while the summit convenes high-level African participation — including ministers, regulators and executives — the internal hiring and leadership structure of the organizing body does not adequately reflect African professionals. “Frontier Energy Network’s hiring practices – widely understood across the industry to exclude Black professionals – are wrong. Full stop,” the AEC said. It further warned that organizations earning substantial revenue from Africans cannot expect to benefit from African markets while denying fair employment to Africans. Following publication of the Chamber’s latest statement naming Frontier, Pan African Visions reached out via email to Frontier Energy Network seeking comment and reaction. At press time, no formal response had been received. However, shortly after the AEC’s renewed charge, Frontier’s Founder and CEO, Gayle Meikle, published a detailed LinkedIn essay titled “Frontier CEO Brief: What Is an African?” While the post did not directly reference the Chamber’s allegations, it addressed themes central to the debate — identity, sovereignty and partnership. “I am an African woman. I am Zimbabwean. I was born in Zimbabwe. That is who I am,” Meikle wrote, emphasizing Africa’s diversity across 54 sovereign states and more than 2,000 languages. She cautioned against reducing Africa to binary definitions of who is “African enough,” politically or economically. Meikle underscored Africa’s civilizational depth — from Arab and Amazigh communities in the north to Yoruba, Igbo, Swahili, Shona, Zulu and Xhosa traditions — and argued that Africa’s resources must serve African development first. “Africa welcomes investment, but it expects partnership,” she wrote. “Sovereignty and collaboration are not in conflict; they are mutually reinforcing.” She concluded with a personal declaration: “No one grants me that agency. It is inherent. And anyone who attempts to diminish it will discover that it cannot be taken.” Ayuk’s Direct Rebuttal The LinkedIn post drew an immediate and sharply worded response from Ayuk. In a public post visible on and off LinkedIn, Ayuk accused Frontier’s leadership of avoiding the core issue. “Don’t pee on my leg and tell me it’s raining,” Ayuk wrote, stating that he had received outreach from industry professionals offended by what he described as a “No Blacks employment policy in 2026.” He called directly on Meikle and Frontier executive Daniel Davidson to commit to hiring Black professionals. “Don’t just beg them to come to Africa Energies Summit® and give you their money. Your brothers and sisters are qualified and need jobs. Hire them,” Ayuk wrote. He further warned that African professionals were privately indicating they would not attend the summit if the alleged exclusionary hiring practices continued. “A lot of Africans are already telling me in private they will not attend because of this race-based no blacks hiring policy. Don’t spend your money where you can’t work.” Ayuk’s post went beyond institutional critique and focused particularly on Black women in the energy sector. He recounted a conversation with a young woman in the seismic industry who told him that white male executives often pave the way for white women to be hired, while Black women must “fight hard” for similar opportunities — especially within companies profiting from African markets. “In today’s oil industry, black women are still the last hired and the first fired,” Ayuk wrote. He emphasized that Black women often navigate the intersection of race and gender as dual minorities in senior roles, facing unique mental health and professional pressures. Quoting Maya Angelou, he concluded: “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” Hyve Group and Boardroom Representation Similarly, Hyve Group has been the subject of sustained criticism from the African Energy Chamber — most forcefully articulated in 2024 — over what the Chamber described as a persistent absence of African leadership within a company that derives substantial revenue from African markets. In a strongly worded 2024 statement, the AEC argued that while Hyve plays a pivotal role in Africa’s energy and mining landscape through flagship events such as Mining Indaba and Africa Oil Week, its executive and board-level leadership did not reflect the continent from which it earns significant commercial returns. “It is disheartening to note that despite being a major beneficiary of Africa’s economic contributions, Hyve Group has yet to usher in a leadership team that reflects the rich diversity and talent pool present on the continent,” the Chamber stated at the time. The AEC further contended that prevailing hiring practices based on personal networks, trust and familiarity perpetuate exclusionary patterns that leave qualified African professionals — including Black women — outside decision-making circles. Executive Chairman NJ Ayuk contrasted Hyve’s leadership composition with what he described as the oil and gas industry’s stronger track record in promoting African talent. “The Oil and Gas industry that I love and champion is the greatest advocate for hiring Africans. It has trained Africans, promoted them, and many have become great entrepreneurs today,” Ayuk said in 2024. “That’s why I love Oil and Gas.” He expressed disappointment at what he described as a disconnect between Hyve’s commercial success in Africa and its internal leadership structure. “Hyve Group makes a huge part of its revenue from Africa, yet no African is in its leadership. They hire people they know, they trust and like. We’re not in that circle. I am very disappointed,” Ayuk stated. “People of African heritage are greater participants and sponsors of their programs. I believe they are capable of doing the leadership jobs, but there has not been an adequate commitment to hire and promote them at Hyve Group.” Ayuk also argued that corporate rebranding and public-facing diversity messaging must translate into measurable structural change. “Their rebranding and wokeness must lead to some inclusion and vice versa; otherwise, their wokeness is pure self-indulgence.” The Chamber framed the issue as one of fairness, economic reciprocity and governance consistency, particularly for countries such as South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Namibia and Tanzania that actively support and host Hyve events. “We cannot accept that in 2024, companies doing business in Africa and earning huge revenues will not have Blacks in leadership,” Ayuk said. “Africans must not buy where they can’t work.” He further called for greater transparency around tax contributions linked to African-hosted exhibitions, urging disclosure of VAT collections and payments to relevant revenue authorities. While the 2024 statement focused squarely on Hyve’s governance structure at that time, the broader principle articulated by the Chamber has since evolved into a wider campaign encompassing multiple global event organizers: diversity must extend beyond speaker lineups and branding to executive authority, hiring pipelines and boardroom representation. “Inclusion cannot stop at the podium,” Ayuk has repeatedly maintained. “It must extend to governance, strategy and ownership of the narrative.” As Africa’s energy and mining sectors continue to expand, the Chamber argues that companies profiting from the continent’s markets must align their internal leadership structures with the local content and economic sovereignty principles increasingly enforced across African jurisdictions. The message — first forcefully delivered in 2024 — remains central to the AEC’s current push: representation is not optional, and economic partnership without leadership inclusion is unsustainable. A Growing Ripple Effect What distinguishes the current phase of the campaign is its intensity and visibility. The public exchange between Frontier’s CEO and the AEC Chairman has transformed what was once a policy dispute into a high-profile industry debate about race, governance and economic sovereignty. Industry insiders suggest some companies and institutions are quietly reassessing their participation in forums organized by entities facing exclusion allegations. While no major withdrawals have been publicly announced, reputational risk has become part of the calculation. African state-owned enterprises and regulators — increasingly conscious of domestic local content laws — face growing pressure to align external partnerships with internal policy commitments. Redefining Global Engagement with Africa As energy security reshapes geopolitical priorities, Africa is emerging not as a peripheral supplier but as a strategic partner. The AEC’s campaign seeks to ensure that this partnership reflects equity not only in rhetoric, but in leadership and employment structures. Africa’s energy renaissance, the Chamber argues, must be defined not only by reserves, LNG terminals or licensing rounds — but by who holds influence and who benefits from growth. “Africa’s energy renaissance must include Africans at every level,” Ayuk has insisted. “We will continue to fight for that principle — respectfully, lawfully and persistently.” With the Africa Energies Summit approaching, the pressure shows no sign of easing. What began as a governance question has evolved into a broader reckoning over representation, partnership and the future architecture of Africa’s global energy engagement.

Bengaluru, Mar 05: Amazon India today announced the return of the Electronics Premier League (EPL) on Amazon.in. Starting midnight, customers can discover great deals and offers across a wide range of consumer electronics from the latest smartphones, smart TVs, laptops and tablets, to air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines, cameras, audio devices and more. Power Play Deals will bring a curated selection of the sharpest offers, refreshed every day through the shopping event. With up to 65% off on products, additional instant bank discount of up to INR 4,500 on HDFC Bank Credit Card and EMI transactions, No-Cost EMI options, and attractive exchange benefits, EPL makes every upgrade more accessible than ever this cricket season. 

“Last year’s EPL exceeded our expectations, and this year we are scaling that ambition across every dimension. Our focus this year is on AI-powered devices — from AI PCs to smart TVs to on-device AI smartphones — and we want customers to experience that shift firsthand. What has also evolved is how customers discover and decide. Rufus helps customers find products based on their specific use case, Smartchoice surfaces the right options across price bands and needs, and richer product pages give customers the context and confidence to make informed decisions. Together, these tools make the path from curiosity to purchase faster, smarter, and more intuitive than ever.”- Zeba Khan, Director – Consumer Electronics, Amazon India. 

With EPL bringing some of the best deals of the season, Amazon India’s AI-powered tools help customers make better upgrade decisions. Whether shopping for a smartphone, a TV, or any consumer electronics product, these tools work across the entire selection- for instance, tell Rufus you want the best camera phone under a certain budget and it will filter through in real time- no scrolling, no guesswork. Lens AI lets customers point their camera at a wall and instantly find the TV that fits it best. Narrowing down on the best noise-cancelling headphones? Review Highlights distils thousands of customer reviews into a crisp summary, so every decision is an informed one. Price History lets customers see how a product’s price has moved over time, so they can buy with confidence knowing they are getting a genuinely good deal. Smartchoice takes the guesswork out entirely, badging the best laptop for your workflow or the right appliance for your home across prices and use cases. 

The Electronics Premier League is live on Amazon.in from March 6th – March 12th, 2026.

Select from the latest launches of the year to kick off your cricket season

• Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra: Samsung’s most powerful flagship yet- featuring next-gen AI camera capabilities, built-in S Pen, and a stunning titanium design. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is now available during EPL
• Apple 17e: Equipped with 6.1” Super retina XDR display, A19 chip, 48MP Fusion camera and more, Apple 17e is one of the best buys for customers. Available during EPL at a net effective price  including bank offer
• iQOO 15R: Performance-first 5G smartphone with flagship-grade processor and fast charging.
• Oakley Meta Vanguard, Matte Black, PRIZM 24K: Tap into iconic style and advanced technology with Ray-Ban Meta, these glasses are equipped with an ultra-wide 12 MP camera and allow to make hands-free calls or ask Meta AI questions on the go and more. 
• Sony WH-1000XM6 The Best Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones: Powered with advanced processors and an adaptive microphone system, the WH-1000XM6 headphones deliver real-time noise cancellation for an immersive, distraction-free listening experience.
• Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro: Featuring an iconic metal design, this product is built for all-day comfort. It also boosts advanced adaptive ANC, live translation and hands-free control. 
• Sony 55-inch BRAVIA 2M2 4K Smart LED Google TV: Sony BRAVIA picture quality with Google TV, 4K Ultra HD, and smart home integration.
• Xiaomi 75 Inches X Pro Series QLED 4K UHD Smart Google TV: Experience cinematic 4K clarity with this smart TV. It comes with features such as Dolby Vision, HDR10+, eye care mode and more. 
• Fujifilm instax mini Evo Cinema™ Premium Edition with 20 Shots of instax mini Instant Film: This camera comes with cutting edge innovation that offers total creative control over capturing, editing, printing, recording, and more. 
• Boat 2026 Launch Nirvana Crown, Sonic ARC, LEDs, Haptic Feedback,50dB Hybrid ANC,Spatial Audio: Tune out the chaos and dive into pure sound with boAt Nirvana Crown TWS Earbuds that come with features such as 50 dB Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation, Spatial Audio, 6 Mics with AI-ENx Technology and more. 

Level up your AI game with these AI-enabled devices

From AI PCs that adapt to how you work, to smart TVs that personalise your viewing experience, to smartphones with powerful on-device AI capabilities — EPL brings together the best of what the next generation of consumer technology looks like, all in one place.

• Apple iPhone 17 Pro 512GB: Apple’s latest Pro flagship with cutting-edge A-series chip, ProRes video, and titanium design. 
• ASUS Vivobook S16 AI PC, Intel Core Ultra 5 225H: AI-powered laptop with Intel Core Ultra 5 225H processor, built for seamless multitasking and all-day productivity. 
• Samsung 55-inch Vision AI 4K Ultra HD Smart QLED TV: Vision AI, QLED panel, intelligent upscaling for a personalised viewing experience.
• LG 55-inch UA82 AI Series 4K Smart webOS LED TV: LG AI-powered picture processing, webOS smart platform, 4K Ultra HD. 
• Samsung 653L 5-in-1 Convertible Side-by-Side AI Smart Refrigerator: WiFi-enabled, Digital Inverter, AI-powered cooling that adapts to your usage patterns.
• Samsung 9 Kg 5 Star AI EcoBubble Front Load Washing Machine: AI EcoBubble technology, Super Speed wash, Hygiene Steam with inbuilt heater, Wi-Fi enabled.

 

Time to upgrade to 5G with up to 40% off on smartphones

• OnePlus Nord 5: Sleek 5G mid-ranger with clean OxygenOS experience and fast charging.  instant bank discount
• Samsung Galaxy M56 5G: Feature-packed 5G smartphone with large battery and vivid display. 
• realme NARZO 90x 5G: Budget 5G smartphone with solid performance and long battery life.
• Redmi A4 5G: Affordable 5G smartphone offering reliable everyday performance. 

Power up your productivity with these laptops & tablets

• HP Victus i5 14th Gen with RTX 3050: 14th Gen Intel Core i5, NVIDIA RTX 3050 graphics, 144Hz display, built for gaming and creative workloads.
• Xiaomi Pad 7 Nano Texture Display: Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3, 3.2K Nano Texture anti-glare display, Dolby Vision Atmos, 12GB RAM. . 

Bigger screen, better experience on these Smart TVs

• TCL 55-inch 4K UHD Smart QD-Mini LED Google TV: QD-Mini LED technology, Google TV, 4K UHD vivid, high-contrast picture quality. Available at a net effective price of INR 42,240
• Xiaomi 55-inch FX Pro QLED Ultra HD 4K Smart Fire TV: QLED display, Fire TV built-in, Alexa voice control.

Music, that moves with you

• OnePlus Buds 4: Active noise cancellation, long battery life, lightweight design.
• realme Buds T310 True Wireless in-Ear Earbuds: Experience uninterrupted sound with these realme buds. It offers features such as 46dB hybrid noise cancellation, up to 40 hours of total playback, dual device connection and more. 
• realme Buds Air: These realme buds come with features such as sound master, adaptive silence, 3D spatial and dynamic audio. 
• boAt Rockerz 650 Pro: 80-hour battery, Dolby Audio, touch controls, dual pairing — over-ear wireless headphones.
• OnePlus Nord Buds 3r TWS Earbuds: With the longest battery life ever, these OnePlus Nord Buds come with 12.4mm driver and titanium-coated diaphragm, sound master EQ and AI translation. 

Beat the heat & keep it fresh with these home appliances

• Samsung 28L Convection Microwave Oven with Curd Making: 28-litre convection microwave with curd making function — versatile everyday kitchen companion. Available, including an instant bank discount up to INR 2,000 on HDFC Credit Card and EMI
• Bosch 13 Place Setting EcoSilence Drive Dishwasher: Germany’s No. 1 dishwasher brand. EcoSilence Drive motor, Hygiene+ programme, Intensive Kadhai program.

Mar 05: In a joint 6G AI proof-of-concept demonstration, the CMX500 one-box tester from Rohde & Schwarz shows significant downlink throughput gain in an AI-based wireless transmission compared to conventional non-AI technology. Additionally, the demonstration illustrates how this translates to an enhanced video streaming user experience. This collaboration validates the feasibility of multi-vendor AI interoperability for future 6G standardization.
 

 The CMX500 shows significant downlink throughput gain in an AI-based wireless transmission.

KT has joined forces with Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. and Rohde & Schwarz to present significant performance gains achievable through AI-enhanced radio transmission, paving the way for optimized 5G-Advanced and future 6G networks. Visitors to MWC Barcelona 2026 can experience the demonstration at the KT booth 4A60 in hall 4.

Qualcomm Technologies and Rohde & Schwarz collaborated in 2025 to realize Channel State Information (CSI) feedback technology leveraging AI/ML for advanced mobile networks and RAN infrastructure. The telecommunications company KT, driver of 6G research and AI implementation, now joined the effort to demonstrate the practical benefits of integrating AI into next-generation wireless systems.

In the setup, Qualcomm’s AI-enabled wireless device prototype connected to the CMX500, configured as an AI-enabled base station emulator, achieves an increase in downlink throughput of approximately 50% compared to conventional non-AI technology. Leveraging the advanced application testing capabilities of the CMX500, the demonstration illustrates how the increased performance translates to an enhanced user experience for video streaming applications. The improvement was achieved using a “two-sided AI model” for CSI feedback, enabling cooperative compression of wireless channel state information transferred between the device and base station. The model leverages CSI-RS-based analysis and compressed feedback, significantly enhancing radio transmission performance in massive MIMO scenarios. AI-driven CSI enhancements are expected to result in even greater efficiency, reduced overhead and improved user experience in 5G-Advanced and future 6G networks.

A key achievement of this work is the validation of an interoperable architecture allowing real-time cooperation between AI models from different vendors – a critical step towards 6G standardization and a more open, flexible network ecosystem. The precise and controlled testing environment of the CMX500 one-box tester proves essential for accurately assessing the performance of these sophisticated AI-based algorithms under realistic radio conditions.

Alexander Pabst, Vice President of Wireless Communications at Rohde & Schwarz, said: “We are proud to collaborate with KT and Qualcomm in showcasing the immense potential of AI in next-generation networks. The CMX500’s ability to verify these performance gains underscores our commitment to providing leading-edge test and measurement solutions for the future of communication technologies.”

Lee Jong-sik, Executive Vice President and Head of KT’s Future Network Research Laboratory, said: “6G represents an evolution towards intelligent networks that combine AI and wireless communications rather than simply delivering higher speeds.” He added that KT will continue to secure AI-based wireless technologies that enhance customer experience through strategic partnerships.

Spencer Kim, Vice President and President of Qualcomm Korea, QUALCOMM CDMA Technologies (Korea) YH, noted: “6G will serve as an innovation platform for advanced intelligent edge AI, enabling AI-driven control of network resources. Our collaboration with Rohde & Schwarz and KT marks a critical step in bringing this vision to life and is expected to accelerate progress in next-generation communications.”

At MWC Barcelona 2026, visitors can learn how to achieve significant performance gains through AI-enhanced CSI feedback at the KT booth 4A60 in hall 4. 

Kochi, Mar 05: “Nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system, and their contribution to patient care is invaluable. At Aster DM Healthcare, we have always held the highest respect for the nursing profession and deeply recognise the dedication, commitment and compassionate care they bring to their work every single day.

We understand the concerns raised by nurses in Kerala regarding compensation and as a responsible healthcare provider, Aster DM Healthcare will fully comply with the directions on this matter and the Minimum Wages Notification issued by the Government of Kerala.

Aster has consistently aligned employee compensation with government notifications in the past. In addition to statutory wages, we extend several benefits to employees, including staff insurance coverage and other benefits as determined by the board and management from time to time.

At this juncture, I would also like to thank the nursing community for continuing to prioritise patient care even as they voice their concerns. Their professionalism and commitment during this time truly reflect the noble spirit of the nursing profession. We remain committed to creating a healthcare environment where nurses feel valued, respected, and supported.”

Sale hailed as major sign of confidence in city’s real estate market and security in UAE

 

Dubai, UAE, March 5:  A luxury apartment in Dubai has been sold off-plan for AED422 million, and the deal has been hailed as powerful sign of confidence in the city’s real estate market, and security in the UAE. 

The sale yesterday of the 31,201 sq ft apartment at Aman Residences Dubai on the Jumeirah Peninsula, has been confirmed by fäm Properties.

Data from DXBinteract, the data platform developed by the company in partnership with Dubai Land Department, said the transaction put the value at AED 13,525 per sq ft.

Firas Al Msaddi, CEO of fäm Properties, said: “The sale of an ultra-luxury villa at this level is particularly relevant in the current circumstances. It underlines the fact that the Dubai real estate market is structurally stronger than it has ever been.

“Over 70% of transactions are now end-user driven, not speculative. The buyer base is globally diversified. Mortgage activity has doubled in four years.

“The regulatory environment has matured. The UBS Global Real Estate Bubble Index rates Dubai moderate risk, while cities like Miami and Tokyo sit in the high-risk zone. The fundamentals haven’t changed overnight because of regional events.

“And of course, the enormous lengths that the UAE authorities have gone to in order to keep everyone who lives and works here safe at all times, sends out the strongest possible message to investors.

“That has long been the case, and the effect of all this is highlighted by an apartment being sold for AED422 million in the current climate, at a time when the eyes of the world are on Dubai, and the Gulf region.

“It’s a sale which says so much about the UAE as a whole, and in this case in particular, about Dubai as one of the world’s leading destinations for wealthy real estate investors.

“While headlines elsewhere paint one picture of the UAE, the reality for those of us living and working here is completely different.”

Mar 05: In a major push toward strengthening India’s artificial intelligence infrastructure, Silicon Valley-based entrepreneur Adesh Kumar Tyagi has announced a $7.7 billion commitment to develop a 1-gigawatt hyperscale AI data centre platform in Uttar Pradesh.

The project, spearheaded by his company TryfactaConnex, has been formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Government of Uttar Pradesh. At 1 gigawatt of planned capacity, the campus ranks among the largest AI-dedicated infrastructure commitments announced in India.

Tyagi positioned the initiative as a response to India’s rapidly accelerating AI demand, which he believes is beginning to outpace available compute and energy capacity.

“AI demand in India is growing exponentially. The constraint today is not talent or ambition — it is reliable, scalable power infrastructure,” said Tyagi. “AI infrastructure is becoming core national economic infrastructure.”

Built for AI-First Workloads

Unlike traditional data centres that were retrofitted for AI applications, the proposed campus is being designed specifically for high-density AI workloads, with planned power densities ranging from 80 to 120 kilowatts per rack. The modular design will allow the facility to adapt to successive chip generations while deploying hybrid and liquid cooling systems to optimise performance and efficiency at scale.
A key differentiator of the project is its integrated energy planning model. Instead of relying solely on grid connectivity, the infrastructure roadmap envisions a diversified energy backbone combining grid power, solar integration, gas-based systems, battery storage, and future-ready options aligned with evolving nuclear energy frameworks.

Industry experts note that as AI models grow in scale and complexity, dependable base-load energy is becoming as critical as compute capability itself.

Strategic Location Advantage

Uttar Pradesh has been actively positioning itself as a destination for large-scale digital infrastructure investments, supported by policy incentives, improving power availability, and enhanced connectivity.
With demand in northern India — particularly around the NCR corridor — projected to rise significantly in the coming years, the state offers both geographic and infrastructure advantages for hyperscale deployment.

The 1-GW campus will be developed in phased blocks, allowing capital deployment and infrastructure build-out to align with demand growth and long-lead equipment procurement cycles.

Broader Economic and Global Context

Headquartered in Silicon Valley, TryfactaConnex is advancing AI infrastructure strategies across the United States, India, and Brazil. The India project forms a central pillar of the company’s broader vision to build globally distributed, sovereign AI capacity capable of supporting hyperscalers, enterprises, and national AI programmes.

Beyond computing capacity, the project is expected to generate high-value employment, enable advanced technology skill development, and strengthen India’s domestic AI ecosystem by reducing reliance on overseas infrastructure.

“In the AI economy, uptime equals economic advantage,” Tyagi added. “When compute becomes reliably available at scale, it unlocks innovation across sectors.”

As artificial intelligence increasingly shapes economic competitiveness, infrastructure investments of this scale signal a larger shift: hyperscale AI facilities are no longer peripheral assets — they are strategic national infrastructure.

With planning and financing processes underway, the TryfactaConnex campus represents a significant step in India’s ambition to emerge as a global hub for AI-driven growth.

Pune, Mar 05:  Pune, a city renowned for its youthful energy, vibrant college scene, and evolving food culture, offers a diverse range of hangout spots perfect for friends, colleagues, and families. From cosy cafés to lively restaurants, Pune’s food and beverage scene caters to every mood, occasion, and budget, making it a go-to destination for socialising and relaxation.

 Here are five must-visit hangout spots in Pune:

1. Burger Singh – India’s Desi Burger Favourite
Known for its uniquely Indian twist on classic burgers, Burger Singh is a hit among students and young professionals. Bold spices, playful names, and local flavours make it perfect for casual group hangouts. Its friendly ambience, prompt service, and pocket-friendly pricing ensure a satisfying and fun experience.

2. Starbucks – Premium Café Culture
Starbucks is more than just coffee; it’s a hub for group study sessions, brainstorming meetings, or long chats with friends. Its cozy interiors, consistent service, and welcoming atmosphere make it a preferred spot for those seeking a calm, premium café experience in Pune.

3. McDonald’s – The All-Time Favourite
With outlets across the city, McDonald’s remains a reliable choice for families, students, and friend groups. Known for quick service, familiar menu options, and budget-friendly combos, it is a convenient and hassle-free option for casual hangouts.

4. Social – The Trendy Hangout Spot
Social blends café culture with contemporary vibes, offering a creative menu, signature drinks, and eclectic interiors. Popular among young professionals and students, it is ideal for casual meet-ups, evening hangouts, and brainstorming sessions in a lively and modern setting.

5. Barbeque Nation – For Group Celebrations
Barbeque Nation is perfect for large gatherings, birthdays, and weekend get-togethers. Its unlimited grills, buffet-style offerings, and interactive live-grill concept make dining a social and memorable experience, where guests can enjoy food cooked to their preference.

Practical, fun, and social, Pune’s hangout spots cater to a wide spectrum of tastes and experiences, encouraging connections over good food and great company. Whether you are looking for a relaxed café session or a lively group celebration, the city has something for everyone.