Archives November 2023

IndusInd Bank launches ‘NRI Homecoming’ Festival, elevating banking experience for Non-Resident Indians

Bangalore, 4th November 2023: IndusInd Bank today launched ‘NRI Homecoming’ festival, commemorating the return of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) to the country to reunite with their families, coinciding with the ongoing ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, the upcoming year-end holiday season, and the highly anticipated Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in January 2024. This initiative aims to create a memorable experience for clients through a series of celebratory events and attractive offerings on banking products & services.

As part of the NRI homecoming festival, the Bank provides limited-period benefits that include interest rate of up to 6.75% p.a. on NRE/NRO Savings Accounts, interest rates of up to 7.5% p.a. on NRE/NRO Deposits and interest rates of up to 5.95% p.a. on USD FCNR Deposits. Further, IndusInd Bank has planned an elaborate and festive celebration, with branches adorned and various activities scheduled to warmly welcome NRIs.

Moreover, ‘NRI Homecoming’ program also includes informative sessions on financial literacy, providing valuable insights and guidance to NRIs and PIOs regarding their financial requirements before returning overseas. These sessions, led by experienced financial planners, aim to assist NRIs in securing their financial objectives effectively.

With a strong focus on customer convenience, the Bank focuses on facilitating a seamless NRI Digital Account Opening platform with features like My Account My Number, WhatsApp Banking, and Finger Print Banking. With 198 NRI-focused branches, personalized services are assured. Additionally, the Bank offers Indus Fast Remit for easy fund transfers from the USA and Singapore and a proficient Virtual Service team and 24×7 Call Centre for NRIs settled abroad.

The ‘NRI Homecoming’ program underscores IndusInd Bank’s commitment to providing comprehensive and tailored financial solutions, ensuring a seamless and enriching banking experience for the NRI community.

NSDC, OdinSchool partner to Skill Indian Youth

NSDC, OdinSchool

India 4th November 2023: According to a report published by the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), India is projected to encounter a significant shortage of skilled workers in various sectors. Estimates suggest this deficit could range between 103 million to 109 million skilled professionals.

The IT industry in India is grappling with a substantial skill gap, resulting in an estimated scarcity of over 1 million proficient IT professionals. This skill gap can have several serious consequences, like a potential hindrance to the overall growth and competitiveness of the IT industry in India. Measures such as upskilling programs, educational reforms, and industry-academic collaborations are necessary.

In a transformative stride towards revolutionizing skill development in India, OdinSchool, a leading upskilling platform, has formed a strategic partnership with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). Through this partnership, learners who complete OdinSchool’s data science and web developer courses will receive a co-branded certificate of completion endorsed by NSDC, showcasing their proficiency and mastery.

NSDC (National Skill Development Corporation), a public-private partnership organization in India was established to promote and facilitate skill development in the country. NSDC fosters skills training and vocational education across various industries and sectors. An NSDC certificate can be valuable for individuals seeking employment in industries where specific skills and competencies are highly valued. Employers may view NSDC certification as an assurance that the candidate has received quality training and possesses the required skills for the job.

A Shared Vision for Empowering Careers
OdinSchool is now affiliated with NSDC, and this alliance will aim to standardize tech upskilling in developing high-growth industries. This will be one of the best ways to develop a sizable pool of competent professionals.

OdinSchool graduates will now be certified by a national government body and can directly download their certificate from the NSDC portal. An NSDC certificate demonstrates a person’s skills and knowledge in a specific area, giving them more credibility and job value.
Additionally, this relationship will advance “women empowerment.” OdinSchool also recognises the immense potential that women bring to the table in helping businesses grow and flourish. Several women who had taken a break from their career for various reasons have been trained and placed in the top companies, thereby helping them relaunch their career in the new-age tech domain. This also helps address the gender gap in the industry along with the skill gap.

Recognizing that industry-relevant skills are paramount in today’s competitive job market, this potential partnership seeks to marry OdinSchool’s innovative upskilling approach with NSDC’s authority and proven track record in skill development.

Vijay Pasupulati – Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of OdinSchool, said, “OdinSchool was launched with the express purpose of developing a substantial skilled workforce. We are happy to collaborate with NSDC, one of India’s finest public-private partnerships. Thanks to this relationship, OdinSchool will now have a bigger role to play in closing India’s expanding talent gap, especially in the new fields within the larger IT sector.”

Transforming Careers, Changing Lives
One of the most remarkable aspects of OdinSchool’s impact is its ability to upgrade jobs, especially for individuals from non-technical backgrounds. Through tailored programs and personalized guidance, OdinSchool has witnessed numerous success stories of individuals transitioning from different domains to the tech sector.

Whether one is an interior designer or a simple tutor, OdinSchool’s strategy has been crucial in enabling individuals to gain the competence and self-assurance needed to succeed in their new tech positions. Here are some of the best success stories:

The relaunch story of a B.Tech dropout, Supraja, who also had a 10-year career gap – She felt lost in life with the tags of “Engineering Dropout”, “Career Gap”, and “Non-IT ” but made a successful career comeback as a ‘Business Intelligence Associate’ at Celebal Technologies.

After struggling to clear Govt exams for many years, Aman Verma had to resort to a tutoring job due to financial burdens. But then OdinSchool’s Data Science training and career services helped him become a successful data engineer at Cloud4C Services.

Nidhi Kulkarni had a master’s degree in nutrition but aspired for a career in IT. She upskilled herself in data science and now works as a software engineer at Prolifics.

Nipun Gupta had a very successful career as a college professor. But as time went on, he understood that upskilling is necessary to stay on the cutting edge of industry innovations and remain a competitive applicant in the job market. He now works for Ab-InBev as a successful data scientist.

Angelina Daisy relaunched her career as an Associate Software Engineer at Motivity Labs after a 14-year break. She stated, “Launching my career with a 14-year career gap was not easy; being a mother, I had different priorities. But the Data Science Bootcamp at OdinSchool is well-structured and has several elements like Career Services that have helped many women like me get their careers up and running again”.

OdinSchool closely interacts with the industry so they can prepare the talent easily deployable to projects and close the skill gap. The entire program, from curriculum design to pedagogy and outcomes, is aligned to addressing the needs of the current industry. OdinSchool also said their students are taught by industry veterans from companies like Walmart, BOSH, Infosys, IBM, FedEx, JP Morgan, etc.

Charting the Course Forward

As OdinSchool and NSDC embark on this transformative journey, there is no doubt that they will leave an indelible mark on India’s tech landscape, paving the way for a brighter, more dynamic future for all those who seek to excel in the world of technology.

Who can join OdinSchool’s upskilling courses?

Anyone (graduates, working professionals) can join OdinSchool’s upskilling courses. This includes people from IT and non-IT educational backgrounds. OdinSchool also accepts students with long career gaps.

How can I enrol in OdinSchool?

Go to https://www.odinschool.com/ and submit your details. The counselling team will then interact with you to confirm your eligibility, after which you can start your upskilling journey.

This World Cup Season, Rishabh Pant and HDFC Life Advocate the Importance of Term Insurance & Savings

Mumbai, 4th November 2023: HDFC Life, one of India’s leading life insurers, has launched a campaign featuring renowned cricketer Rishabh Pant to drive awareness on the need for regular savings and owning a Term insurance plan to accomplish one’s aspirations.

In the campaign, (click to watch) Rishabh shares insights from his younger days where his discipline and hard work helped him achieve his dream of becoming an accomplished cricketer. For instance, he would travel six hours every day from Roorkee to New Delhi to practice cricket – one of the many steps he took to reach his goals.

The campaign idea is based on the findings of a survey conducted by HDFC Life. Key highlights of the findings are as follows:

  • Indians across smaller cities are predominantly ‘savers’, with 58% saving regularly and 27% saving occasionally
  • The top five reasons to save money are child’s education (46%), child’s marriage (31%), supporting ageing parents (29%), large upcoming expenses (26%), and medical emergencies or create corpus to invest later (25%)
  • Amongst life insurance policy holders, savings plans saw a preference over other plan options

Based on these insights, HDFC Life aims to nudge consumers on the importance of disciplined savings and have the protection of term insurance to achieve their dreams.

Rishabh Pant, taking a leaf out of his personal story of survival, reinforces the importance of financially protecting the lives of loved ones against any uncertainty.

Vishal Subharwal

Speaking on the campaign, Vishal Subharwal – Chief Marketing Officer and Group Head Strategy – HDFC Life, commented “Savings & Term insurance are at the very core of financial well-being of every individual. We are pleased that Rishabh Pant, a talented cricketer and role model for many, has aptly highlighted the need to financially protect one’s future. We see so many people around us suffer in the event of loss of the breadwinner or sudden reversals in fortunes due to various reasons including lack of savings and inadequate life insurance. A family’s financial situation could also be adversely impacted due to events that alter one’s earning ability. Hence financial planning is critical. The penetration of life insurance in India is still in low single digits which necessitates the need for greater awareness on life insurance. We sincerely hope that this campaign will enable us to reach out to a larger audience and encourage more individuals to keep their families’ dreams intact.”

Encouraged by the heartening response to HDFC Life’s previously launched Term campaign; the Company is also doing a re-run for the same across media along with this new focus on savings (Click to watch).

The campaign can be viewed on television with presence on the ICC World Cup, News, GEC, along with digital, social media and print.

Temptation Island India on JioCinema brings the perfect mix of love, drama and temptations

India 4th November 2023: JioCinema, India’s biggest entertainment destination, is all set to elevate the entertainment quotient for its viewers with the launch of the Indian adaptation of one of the world’s biggest reality formats, Temptation Island. Starting 3rd November at 8pm, the show will have two of the most seasoned personalities of Indian television, the stunning Mouni Roy play The Queen of Hearts and the relationship expert, and the charismatic Karan Kundrra takes charge as the host. In this ultimate Pyaar Ki Pariksha, Mouni will be guiding the contestants in their journey of self-discovery, while Karan will test the strength of the relationships. Social media’s most sensational stars, Elvish Yadav and Abhishek Malhan (Fukra Insaan) will also be seen together in the show, who will help the contestants explore connections in the villa. Temptation Island is an original format owned by the Banijay Group and is produced in India by Banijay Asia.

Shot at an exotic tropical island, this unique social experiment will see couples tempted to sever old ties and explore new romances as they willfully separate in the Girls Villa and the Boys Villa and immerse themselves in an environment filled with irresistible allure. Surrounded by charming singles, they will grapple with their feelings, confront unfamiliar temptations, and delve into their deepest desires. Through the course of the show, the boys and the girls will explore new bonds through romantic dates, interesting activities, and theme parties that will help them understand each other better. The special bonfire segments as part of the special weekend episodes with Mouni Roy and Karan Kundrra will unfold all the drama and emotions as they will get a glimpse of the evolving dynamics of their respective partners in the villas.

Presented by Too Yumm, Powered by Paytm, and along with Skore as the Digital Partner, Temptation Island India will span across 42 episodes, with an extended version called Temptation Channel streaming on the platform all day. The show will also introduce an array of interactive features, enhancing the viewer experience like never before, ensuring non-stop entertainment on the platform. Leaked Chats will give viewers a sneak peek into their most intimate conversations including photos, videos, voice notes, and text messages. The platform will feature Ask Love Guru for relationship advice from an expert, Horizontal Hype Trivia for quick facts and info about contestants. With Jeeto Dhan Dhana Dhan viewers will be in for a rewarding experience where they’ll win daily prizes by answering simple questions as they watch the Temptation Channel. Not to miss the very engaging JioCinema Super Squad, giving viewers a chance to make their own team and win big rewards. Temptation Awards will let viewers vote for their favorites, while Hype Chats and Stickers will provide real-time engagement.

Speaking on the launch of the reality series, a spokesperson at JioCinema said, “At JioCinema, we are deeply invested in our audience while continuing to expand our portfolio with genre defining content that set new benchmarks. Reality is a key part of our overall content strategy and Temptation Island India will truly be a game changer for this category. As we bring the iconic global IP to India, we are sure to redefine the ‘unscripted’ entertainment making it the new reality phenomenon for the nation.”

Commenting on the launch, Deepak Dhar, Founder & Group CEO – Banijay Asia & Endemol Shine India, said, “Temptation Island has left an indelible mark on the global reality TV landscape, with its immense success spanning over 20 countries. We are thrilled to now bring this iconic show to India. Given the show’s unique concept, JioCinema’s wide reach, and an interesting mix of participants, Temptation Island India is all set to redefine the way Indian audiences experience reality television.”

Speaking on the partnership, a spokesperson at Too Yumm said, “Too Yumm! always seeks to find interesting and disruptive ways to engage with its consumers and form deeper connections with them. As we launch one of the most disruptive tasting snack for our consumers TooYumm! Twisties, we felt it needed an equally disruptive launch medium. What could have been better than one of the most successful reality shows in the world Temptation Island, as it debuts in India through JioCinema. We are sure, together, we will be creating lots of twisti-es and masaledaar experiences for our consumers.”

Exquisite Vegan and Gluten-Free Delights: The Art Lab Patisserie & Bakery Crafts Dessert Masterpieces with Artistic Brilliance

Exquisite Vegan and Gluten

Mumbai, 4th November 2023: The Art Lab Patisserie & Bakery, under the creative guidance of the esteemed Chef Kiran Ahir, is thrilled to announce the arrival of a tantalizing universe that redefines the essence of vegan dessert luxury. Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors that will take your taste buds on a wild and unforgettable ride!

Drawing from an illustrious educational background at the prestigious Les Roches Institute in Switzerland and a wealth of experience garnered from renowned establishments such as the Four Seasons, Chef Kiran Ahir’s lifelong passion for the art of baking finds its pinnacle in The Art Lab Patisserie & Bakery. Here, every dessert is a testament to a relentless pursuit of perfection and a dedication to the art of creating sensory marvels.

The Art Lab Patisserie & Bakery’s distinct culinary prowess shines through their exquisite vegan and gluten free desserts, capturing the essence of indulgence without compromise. They use a meticulous blend of premium gluten-free flour, luscious vegan nut butter and carefully sourced dairy-free components to create a vibrant medley of flavors that not only captivates the taste buds but also astounds with their artistic realism.

The menu offers an array of meticulously crafted delicacies like Petit Gateaux and Entremets, each designed to tempt the palate. The Petit Gateaux and Entremet selection feature enchanting flavours such as Earl Grey and Raspberry-flavored Papillon, classic Forest Cake, luscious Fromage with lemon and blueberry baked cheesecake, delightful Hazelnut and Chocolate flavoured Entremets Cake, Gift, Tiramisu-inspired Coffee, and tantalising Passion made with Ghanian Milk Chocolate and Passionfruit. Relish the luxurious elegance of masterfully tempered Chocolate Bonbons, along with a delightful medley of Praline, the guilt-free ecstasy of the Healthy Chocolate Sticks, and the irresistible charm of their Biggies (cookies) collection. Boasting four mouth-watering flavors – Noir, Hazel, Pistache, and Nutter – there’s something for every taste.

With local deliveries available within a 15km radius and the flexibility to expand their services based on demand, The Art Lab Patisserie & Bakery extends its delightful offerings to a wider audience. For those across the nation seeking to partake in their culinary marvels, select products are available for Pan-India delivery, promising an experience of sheer dessert indulgence.

“The Art Lab Patisserie & Bakery unveils a mesmerizing world of vegan and gluten-free desserts, harmonizing culinary finesse with artistic brilliance. Each masterpiece is a testament to our unwavering dedication to creating visually stunning delicacies that tempt the senses and redefine the boundaries of plant-based confectionery. Prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey of flavors and artistry, where every creation echoes a symphony of passion and innovation” shares Chef Kiran Ahir, emphasizing their dedication to creating desserts that not only please the palate but also leave a lasting impression on every dessert connoisseur.

Prepare to be captivated by a seamless blend of culinary finesse and visual enchantment, as The Art Lab Patisserie & Bakery invites dessert aficionados to embark on a journey where every creation narrates a tale of passion and dedication to the art of dessert craftsmanship.

Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films partners with Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2023 to celebrate cinematic excellence in short-format films

Royal Stag Barrel

Mumbai, 4th November 2023: Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films collaborated with Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2023, a platform that brings the best of contemporary world cinema to the City of Dreams, to celebrate the art of cinema in the short-film format. Over the course of two days (Nov 1-2) at PVR Maison, Jio World Drive BKC, the platform offered passionate filmmakers the opportunity to bring forth authentic stories and engaged audiences with stellar performances.

As part of the association, Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films premiered two original short films at the festival – ‘Badminton’ (directed by Dibakar Banerjee) and ‘Next, Please’ (written-produced by Chaitanya Tamhane, directed by Rishav Kapoor). Starring Jim Sarbh, both films received a fantastic response from the audience. Equally engaging was the panel discussion that followed, where the moderator RJ Malishka spoke to the filmmakers, scriptwriters and Jim Sarbh about the significance of short format filmmaking and their association with Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films platform. Other cast members, including Sayani Gupta, Vijay Maurya, Shreya Dhanwantry and Shardul Bhardwaj were also present at the premiere.

This year, Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films also curated a short film contest #ForTheSelectOnes, inviting entries for 8 to 10-minute films across genres. The top 10 shortlisted entries were screened at the film festival, and the winners in two categories were acknowledged for their cinematic brilliance. Fostering a creative environment for filmmaking enthusiasts, the screenings were followed by engaging discussions about the rise of the short-film format, moderated by actor Inayat Sood and featuring the film creators. Awards for best film and best actor were also announced. Best Film winner was Summer of Soul by Sanjib Gogoi and Best Actor winner was James Elia from the film, Vakuppu (The Clause).

Head of Marketing, PR, and Partnerships – Jio MAMI Mumbai Film Festival, Abhishek Kumar, said, “This is a very special partnership for us, and we are thankful for the continued support by Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films to Jio MAMI. The curation is incredible by some established and new talent from different parts of the country. Our aim collectively is to provide a stage for filmmakers to showcase their authentic stories and further bolster the rapidly growing demand and appetite for the short film format in India.”

Celebrate Festive Glamour in Style with Modicare Limited’s exclusive festive range, Urban Color London Gold Collection

Style with Modicare

Bangalore,4th November 2023: Amidst the joyous festivities echoing across India, Modicare Limited; one of India’s leading direct-selling companies is delighted to unveil its limited-edition Urban Color London Gold Collection. Offering a range of vibrant and colorful cosmetics, this collection provides the perfect opportunity to radiate with brilliance and make this festive season truly unforgettable. The Gold Collection, launched under Modicare’s color cosmetics brand Urban Color London reflects the individuality of today’s woman – strong, independent, intelligent, creative, and vivacious.

Each product within the Gold Collection, from the striking Black Loyalty Kajal to the array of 6 vivid Creme Lipcolors and 6 dazzling Matte Lipcolors, has been carefully crafted to encapsulate the essence of the festive season. Formulated in Italy, Paraben-Free, 100% Vegan, and Cruelty-Free, this collection ensures an enchanting festive look. In addition, the collection also includes an exclusive metallic gold pouch and a stunning soft gold vanity bag to the mix, making it even easier to carry your festive essentials with panache.

Commenting on the launch, Samir K Modi, Founder and Managing Director, Modicare Limited, expressed, “Embracing the festive spirit, we at Modicare are delighted to introduce our new Urban Color London Gold Collection, each crafted with precision and love. Our mission has always been to provide world-class quality products for our valued consultants and customers, and as the festive season approaches, we are committed to delivering beauty solutions that exceed consumer expectations. As we step into this season of light and togetherness, we remain committed to enriching lives and illuminating smiles with our exceptional offerings.”

Medicare’s Urban Color London Gold Collection

  • · Black Royalty Kajal serves as an eyeliner and eyeshadow, offering easy, high-definition applications. Its intensely rich black pigment and long-lasting, waterproof formula create dramatic, smoldering effects. Equipped with a built-in sharpener, it ensures precision at your fingertips, priced at MRP Rs. 799/- (1.8g).
  • · Crème Lipcolor features a luxurious formula with captivating shades that glide effortlessly. Enriched with nourishing Murumuru butter and Vitamin E, this lip color is priced at MRP Rs. 799/- (3.7g). Available in 6 long-lasting and vibrant shades, it’s the perfect choice for the festive season.
  • · Matte Lipcolor features an intense pigmented formula ensuring comfortable all-day wear. Priced at MRP Rs. 799/- (3.7g), it is enriched with nourishing Avocado oil for moisture retention and Beta-carotene for added luminosity. Available in 6 shades, it offers a lightweight, long-lasting, and richly pigmented finish.

Additionally, Modicare has recently launched new additions under the Urban Color London brand, perfect for enhancing your festive look.

  • · Urban Color London Pro Brushes, including the Pro-Eyeshadow, Pro Eye Smudger, Pro Blush, Pro Contouring, and Pro Crease Brushes, offer the ultimate toolkit for flawless festive makeup. Designed for perfection, these brushes ensure seamless blending and better coverage, starting from MRP Rs. 599/-.
  • · Urban Color London Matte & Glow Duo Blusher combines matte and metallic shades, offering an airbrushed, radiant glow and all-day comfort. Available in ‘Mysterious’ and ‘Secret’ variants, suitable for all skin tones, it ensures effortless application and blending, priced at MRP Rs. 1150/- (12g).
  • · Urban Color London Ultimate Duo Highlighter offers effortless blending and a long-lasting, multi-dimensional glow. Crafted with pure pigments and pearls, this highlighter adapts flawlessly to all skin tones, providing customizable radiance. Priced at just MRP Rs.999/- (12g), it adds dimension to your features and is free from parabens, mineral oil, nano-ingredients, and D5, ensuring an elegant finish that enhances your natural beauty.
  • · Urban Color London Pro Fix 3-in-1 Palette delivers a flawless matte creme satin finish enriched with Squalane and jojoba oil for medium to high buildable coverage. Camouflage imperfections, highlight features, and suit all skin tones with Medium-Deep and Light-Medium options at MRP Rs. 1,099/- (9g). This versatile palette is 100% Vegan, Cruelty-free, and dermatologically tested, ensuring a lightweight, long-lasting effect for a stunning complexion.

*All the products under the Modicare range are available for sale across the country through Modicare Consultants.

KPIT reports Q2 FY24 results with CC revenue growth of 51.7 Percent Y-o-Y

Bangalore, India |4th November 2023: | NSE: KPITTECH BSE: 542651: KPIT Technologies, an independent software integration partner to the automotive and mobility ecosystem for making software-defined vehicles a reality, announced financial results for Q2 FY24.

Performance overview

  • § Q2 FY24 Revenues

o CC Revenue growth of 51.7% Y-o-Y & $ Revenue Growth of 54.2% Y-o-Y

o CC Revenue growth of 9.0% Q-o-Q & $ Revenue Growth of 8.4% Q-o-Q

o Broad-based growth across practices and verticals – Growth led by Strategic Accounts, Passenger Car vertical, Electric Powertrain, Autonomous Driving and Digital Connected Solutions practices.

  • § Q2 FY24 EBITDA and Net Profit

o EBITDA at 20% post wage hikes

o 73.7% Growth Y-o-Y and 9.1% Q-o-Q

o PAT Grows 68.7% Y-o-Y

o EBITDA margin maintained at 20% post full quarter impact of wage hikes during the quarter. Gross Impact of wage hikes was 250 bps which was offset by revenue growth and net realization improvement

  • § TCV of new engagements won during Q2 FY24: $156 million

§ Talent

o Global employee count crosses 11970

o Strong focus to improve quality of incoming talent; Focus on technical and managerial leadership

Commenting on the performance of Q2 FY24

Kishor Patil, Co-founder, CEO and MD, KPIT said,

“We are delighted to deliver another quarter, consistent with our robust performance over the last 3 years. Our medium-term business fundamentals and growth drivers remain unchanged. While the geopolitical situation and economic uncertainty across geographies is leading to a softer macro environment, we keep a watchful eye on the impact on our clients and their business priorities. Our clients remain committed to making investments in newer, relevant technologies. Basis our performance so far and near-term visibility, we raise our CC revenue growth outlook for FY24 to 37%+ growth and increase EBITDA margin outlook to 20%+.”

Sachin Tikekar, President and Joint MD, KPIT said,

“Our relationships with our Strategic Clients continue to get deeper and wider, leading to increased strategic engagements. We will sharpen our focus further on commercial vehicles in the near term. Attrition continues to move in the right direction. As we focus on effective delivery of complex large engagements, we continue to lay emphasis on zero-defect delivery. We are progressing well on co-creation of the sustainability roadmap with our employees. We are happy on integration of the acquired entities and are on track for achieving stated medium-term strategic objectives.”

Social Beat’s Amar Badi campaign for Fortune Foods’ Durga Pujo Celebration

Embrace Tradition and Strengthen Community Bonds

Fortune Pujo

Chennai, 03 November 2023: Social Beat, a pioneering digital agency, introduced their latest digital campaign “Amar Badi” for Fortune Foods. “Amar Badi,” which celebrates the joyous occasion of Durga Pujo, aims to bridge the gap between tradition and innovation, embracing the essence of this cultural festival while reinforcing the brand’s commitment to customers’ cherished moments.

The campaign envisions drawing inspiration from Durga Pujo’s rich history and bringing communities closer together. The digital campaign was launched across platforms and affiliates, partnered with ShareChat and Zee5.

The primary objective of the “Amar Badi” campaign was to find communication spaces that resonated with the Bengali community and celebrate Durga Pujo with love, food, and enthusiasm all while deepening their connection with the Fortune Foods brand. The campaign was targeted at enhancing brand love and creating lasting memories during Durga Pujo.

Sanjay Adesara, Head of Marketing at Adani Wilmar said “We wanted to celebrate the spirit of Durga Puja with a campaign that is innovative and unique. Through the “Amar Badi” campaign, we have attempted to keep the Durga Pujo traditions in place while celebrating it with a modern twist. The overwhelming response we received to the campaign reiterated our belief and commitment to being an integral part of this culture”.

Vikas Chawla, Co-Founder, of Social Beat: said “Through the ‘Amar Badi’ campaign, we aimed to create a fusion of tradition and technology that resonated with the heart of Durga Pujo. This campaign was a testament to our commitment to celebrating cultural festivities in innovative ways. We’ve measured success not just in numbers but in the smiles, we’ve brought to our audience’s faces. ‘Amar Badi’ embodies the spirit of Durga Pujo, and we’re thrilled to have shared this remarkable journey with our community.”

Panisa Shah, Director – Creative, Social Beat; said “The ‘Amar Badi’ campaign was a creative tapestry that wove the rich traditions of Durga Pujo with the dynamic innovations of the digital world. It was a journey of immense joy, as we witnessed our campaign breathe life into this beloved occasion. ‘Amar Badi’ showcases the very essence of Social Beat’s creative prowess, as we continue to craft experiences that celebrate tradition and embrace the possibilities of technology.”

As we continue to uphold our tradition of combining the essence of our cultural festivities with innovative digital experiences, we aim to make “Amar Badi” a reflection of the warmth, love, and joy that Durga Pujo embodied. The campaign was more than just a celebration; it was a testament to the importance of embracing tradition while welcoming innovation.

About Social Beat

Founded in 2012, Social Beat is a digital growth partner, enabling brands to rise to the impossible. With a 300+ strong team of digital experts across Bengaluru, Mumbai, NCR, and Chennai, they are India’s fastest-growing independent digital marketing solutions company and manage 4% of digital media investment in India. Social Beat is a Google Premier Partner, Meta Business Partner and works closely with ecosystem partners like Amazon, Hotstar, Salesforce & Linkedin. D2Scale is their centre of excellence for D2C and retail brands to drive e-commerce growth. Influencer.in is their creator economy product driving discovery and real-time reporting of impactful influencer marketing campaigns. They work as extended growth teams with leading brands like Bharat Matrimony, Adani Wilmar, Jaquar, Arvind Brands, Indian Terrain, Mahindra Finance, Kalpataru Group, Go Colors, JK Cement, Sundaram Mutual and with hyperscaling startups including boAt, WOW Skin, Licious, Niyo, Gamezy, Veeba, A23 Games, Kapiva and Sukoon Health on driving innovation through a combination of creativity and performance.

Dreaming of a Big Home… Financial Moves to Make It Happen

Akash Pharande– by Akash Pharande, Managing Director – Pharande Spaces

As we know, the COVID-19 pandemic triggered a remarkable shift among India’s middle class when it comes to home purchase behaviour. Typically conservative middle class Indians who earlier preferred compact and functional homes started splurging on relatively bigger properties, defying conventional wisdom.

While WFH and online schooling initially drove demand for bigger homes, this trend continued even after the pandemic subsided. There has been a deeper attitudinal shift unrelated to pandemic requirements.

Why bigger homes rule the market

– Lifestyle changes: The pandemic fundamentally altered buyer attitudes and living habits. After discovering the benefits of space and community living during lockdowns, the Indian middle class now sees large homes with amenities as the ideal, irrespective of WFH and online schooling needs fading.

– Demographic shifts: Rising nuclearization, urbanization and higher disposable incomes among middle class Indians also drive demand for bigger homes. Dual-income households want more room – for parents, future family growth and overall comfort.

– Future-proofing: Buyers want homes future-proofed against disruptions like health emergencies. Extra space provides a buffer and flexibility.

– Financial security: In India, real estate is seen as a wealth creator. Big homes equal better financial security and social stature. Unlike smaller starter homes which will later be sold to upgrade to better properties, big homes also represent permanence.

– Competitive pricing: Many leading developers offer large 3 BHKs within budget via competitive pricing and finance schemes, making bigger homes attractive investments.

– Suburbanization: The middle class continues migrating to metros’ peripheries and Tier 2/3 cities where property is cheaper, enabling purchase of bigger homes within budget.

Gradual but marked post-pandemic price appreciation has also encouraged buyers to invest in bigger homes before unaffordability sets in.

housing price

Counting the cost

But very few middle-class Indian families can afford to buy a bigger home right off the bat. Housing remains the most expensive acquisition most Indians will ever make, and bigger homes cost more.

Typically, in housing projects in a metro city, every additional bedroom costs between 15-25% more than the base 2BHK rate. For example, if a 2 BHK measures 1,000 sq.ft and costs Rs 8,000 per sq.ft, its price is Rs 80 lakhs. A 3BHK of 1,200 sq.ft (with 1 extra bedroom) at Rs 8,000 per sq.ft will cost Rs 96 lakhs, or 20% more.

Those additional bedrooms are definitely worth it. Apart from the sheer convenience and positive social connotations of a larger flat, the extra rooms allow for better utilization per square foot and in terms of rental ROI, 3 BHKs earn anywhere between 30-40% more rent than 2BHKs.

For most middle-class Indians, achieving the cherished dream of a spacious new flat calls for a lot of honest introspection, future gazing, and financial planning.

India’s middle-income groups typically face multiple financial burdens like education expenses for children, medical emergencies, financially supporting aged parents, etc. Along with these recurring expenses, the high monthly outgo towards home EMIs can overwhelm monthly budgets.

While the dream of owning that 3/4 BHK looms large on the family’s horizon, there are some immutable rules of financial planning that must not be broken. The most important one is that the expense of a home purchase should not exceed 35-40% of the total monthly household income. Breaching this limit can leave buyers cash-strapped to handle other critical spending.

Financial steps towards the 3 BHK

Track expenses and build savings: Maintain a record of monthly expenditures across categories – food, travel, shopping, utility bills, etc. This helps identify wasteful spending that can be reduced. Target to save at least 20% of your monthly income for the down payment on your home, and ensure that you always have an emergency corpus to handle contingencies.

Reduce existing debts: Try to close or prepay any outstanding loans for cars, gadgets, or vacations. This lowers your obligations and improves eligibility for the home loan.

Pay off expensive credit card bills: Credit card rollovers and revolving debts attract exorbitant interest rates of over 40% p.a. Clear off high-cost card dues with savings to free up repayment capacity.

Build a good credit score: Lenders check credit scores to assess loan eligibility and determine interest rates. Scores above 750 help secure cheaper home loans.

Avoid new purchases on EMIs: Adding more EMI commitments when home purchase is on the anvil increases the repayment burden significantly. Defer any major purchases that require loans.

Extend home loan tenure: Opting for a longer tenure of 25-30 years instead of the normal 20 years reduces the EMI outgo. This makes the home purchase more affordable.

Leverage co-applicant income: Consider including the spouse as a co-applicant for jointly availing a larger home loan amount and increasing repayment capability.

Claim tax benefits: First-time home buyers can avail deductions up to Rs 3.5 lakhs a year on principal and home loan interest under Sections 24 and 80C to reduce tax liability.

With some discipline and smart financial moves, middle-income home buyers can realize their aspirations of owning a large home while maintaining a healthy financial profile. Seeking professional guidance from financial planners also helps chalk out the best route to home ownership.

Obviously, owners of an existing home have an advantage as this property, if it is marketable, may be sold to reduce the overall financial burden. The above financial planning steps primarily address the perspective of first-time home buyers focused on acquiring a big apartment.

However, they also apply to existing homeowners whose property is modestly sized (and therefore in less demand) and/or in a very old project with very few of the modern trappings of more contemporary housing projects.

In a market where bigger, modern homes rule the demand wave, selling smaller, older properties may only help marginally in offsetting the cost of a spacious new apartment. Financial savviness and discipline can go a long way in narrowing the gap to make the dream of a spacious new home more attainable.

About the Author:

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