Archives March 2024

Bengaluru, India, March 20, 2024: Technology Company Continental’s Bangalore Plant won the ACMA Excellence Award 2023 and secured Bronze trophies for both “Excellence in Manufacturing” and “Excellence in Digitalization”. The 58 th edition of ACMA Excellence Awards & 9 th Technology Summit recognizes the steadfast commitment and innovation of Indian auto component producers. The awards are a testimony to Continental’s digitization, sustainability efforts and commitment towards localization in manufacturing.

Out of 344 nominations, ACMA honored the outstanding accomplishments and efforts of 59 renowned auto component makers, who took home a total of 112 prizes across categories. This honor acknowledges Continental’s years of hard work in manufacturing combined with digitalization which will further advance the company’s future-focused strategy, “Ready for the Future.”

Expressing his delight, Prashanth Doreswamy, President and CEO, Continental India said, “This award is a statement that testifies Continental India’s efforts towards localization and digitalization. As an organization we follow, ‘in the market, for the market’ approach, focusing on localizing the entire value chain to suit the needs and demands of the customers. The award not only recognizes our commitment to localization but also acknowledges the dedication and innovation of our team at the Bangalore Plant.”

He further added, “The Bangalore Plant is our largest electronics manufacturing plant in India and plays a major role in our growth strategy and digitization efforts. We have been continuously investing in the country to enhance the localization of safety and connected car technologies at the Bangalore Plant. Continental is ‘Ready for the Future,’ and this honor reinforces our determination to advance our localization efforts and contribute to the overall growth and sustainability in the automotive industry.”

Phanindra Karody, Head of the Bengaluru Plant, Continental Automotive India, said, “We are grateful for the recognition and are immensely proud. This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to innovation and continuous improvement. These achievements reaffirm Continental’s leadership in harnessing cutting-edge technologies to drive efficiency and quality in our operations. We extend our gratitude to our dedicated team whose hard work and dedication have made this success possible.”

Bangalore Plant

Continental has embraced the digitization and automation of diverse processes in pursuit of creating a sustainable manufacturing ecosystem. Symbolic of a smart factory, Continental’s Bangalore Plant is the largest electronics manufacturing facility of Continental in India. Cutting- edge technologies, including collaborative robots (Cobots), Augmented Reality (AR), Artificial Intelligence (AI) for face recognition, automated replenishment systems, automated optical inspection, and Big Data applications, have been seamlessly integrated into the shop floor of the Bangalore Plant. These innovations contribute to operational efficiency, ensure adherence to quality standards, maintain precision and consistency, and also uphold a high level of transparency throughout the manufacturing process.

Phanindra also added, “At our state-of-the-art plant, we embrace Industry 4.0 practices, ensuring smart manufacturing and data-driven operational management in every aspect. The Bangalore Plant stands as a shining example of our commitment to localization in manufacturing. This award is a celebration of our efforts and a reaffirmation of our commitment to setting industry standards for excellence.”

Over the years, the Bangalore Plant has introduced various measures to ensure high levels of energy efficiency. The solar panels and a 5MW solar plant installed by Continental ensures that over 93 percent of energy for the plant is sourced from renewable sources. Additionally, the energy-efficient chiller facility has reduced the energy consumption by 5.6 percent and annually saves up to 5,400,000 units.

Past Accolades

The plant is ISO 50001:2018 certified for Energy Management System. Last year, the Bangalore Plant achieved a gold certification in Green Plant Labeling. After the Regensburg plant in Germany, it is the second location to receive a gold certification within Continental among 58 automotive plants globally. In the past, Continental has also won an award at the 4th VDMA Manufacturing Excellence Awards 2021 in the category ‘Energy Efficiency and Conservation’. The award recognizes the German Engineering Federation “Verband Deutscher Maschinen- und Anlagenbau” (VDMA) members who have implemented sustainable manufacturing processes and creates a platform to share best practices for a better environment. The plant has also been recognized with a Level 5 Rating of sustainability by one of the top Indian automotive OEMs in 2020.

Radisson Hotel Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Nikhil Sharma as the Managing Director and Area Senior Vice President (ASVP) for South Asia, effective April 1, 2024.

In his new role, Nikhil Sharma will lead Radisson Hotel Group’s operations in the dynamic South Asia region, which boasts over 165 hotels in operation and development. He brings a wealth of experience and will play a pivotal role in strengthening the Group’s leadership in the Indian market, nurturing relationships with its valued partners, driving revenue growth, and ensuring operational excellence. Nikhil will also lead the Group’s vision of being an employer of choice for dynamic talent in the hospitality ecosystem.

Nikhil joins Radisson Hotel Group from Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (WHR) where he served as Market Managing Director Eurasia, overseeing Business Development, Operations, New Openings, and Sales & Marketing. Before his time at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, he held the position of Chief Operating Officer at Ginger Hotels, a renowned brand under the IHCL conglomerate. He was also a founding member of the Lemon Tree Hotel Company and a significant contributor to the growth of India’s upscale hotel segment.

“Nikhil’s appointment reflects our commitment to strengthening our leadership team and driving strategic growth in South Asia. This region is a key market for us, and with Nikhil’s strategic vision and deep understanding of the industry, we are confident in our ability to further elevate our presence and deliver exceptional experiences to our guests,” said Chema Basterrechea, Global President & Chief Operations Officer at Radisson Hotel Group

“In the past 25 years, Radisson Hotel Group has become synonymous with unparalleled hospitality and delivering memorable moments to millions of guests. We have leveraged the collective efforts of our teams to establish a first-movers advantage that has resulted in the expansion of our footprints in markets that are unique to the Group. We are pleased to welcome a dynamic leader like Nikhil to steer us ahead in this journey and wish him the best for leading Radisson Hotel Group’s next phase of growth in South Asia,” said K.B. Kachru, Chairman, South Asia at Radisson Hotel Group

“I am thrilled to be part of Radisson Hotel Group and to lead South Asia during this exhilarating period of growth. With a diverse portfolio of brands and hotels, the Group is poised to be the top choice for travelers and asset owners alike. I am grateful for this opportunity to drive innovation, deliver exceptional results, and elevate the brand while creating value for our stakeholders,” said Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director and Area Senior Vice President (ASVP), South Asia at Radisson Hotel Group

Nikhil is an active contributor to the hospitality sector in India, serving on committees for various federations, associations, and industry bodies that drive transformative decisions within the industry. He is also a published author and a regular contributor to leading hospitality publications.

Radisson Hotel Group continues to command a leading presence in the Indian market and is one of the country’s largest international hotel operators with over 165 hotels in operation and development. It continues to be the largest hotel operator in tier-1 markets like Delhi NCR and at the same time, more than 50% of its portfolio is in tier-2 and 3 markets where it has benefited by being the first mover. With hotels dotted across 70+ locations in India, there is a Radisson Hotel Group hotel in every 4 hours of drivable distance across the length and breadth of the country operating under brands, including Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Park Inn by Radisson, Park Plaza, Park Inn & Suites by Radisson, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson and Radisson Individuals and its extension Radisson Individuals Retreats. Additionally, the Group is soon set to open doors to the first hotel under its lifestyle luxury brand Radisson Collection.

National, March 20, 2024 – TransUnion has announced that Debasis Panda, Senior Vice President, Global Operations, will also be responsible for leading the company’s Global Capability Centers (GCCs) in Costa Rica and South Africa. This adds to his existing portfolio of overseeing the four GCCs in India (Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad and Pune), which he has led from inception. In his expanded role, Debasis will be responsible for the distributed network of GCCs in six centers across three continents, leading more than 4,000 employees. He will be supported by the in-country and site-specific leaders who will continue to lead their respective centers.

The appointment plays a critical role in TransUnion’s ongoing transformation program to optimize its global operating model through a strategy that sets out to centralize, standardize and automate work in locations with deep talent pools. This GCC network allows TransUnion to drive business excellence at a global scale, across 30 markets, while creating sustainable career opportunities for talent across these locations.

Commenting on the appointment, Eric Hess, Executive Vice President, Global Operations at TransUnion, said: “The success of our first GCC, launched in Chennai, India with just 20 employees in 2018, under Debasis’s leadership, paved the way for TransUnion to expand its GCC strategy. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience in this sector and is well positioned to lead TransUnion’s award-winning distributed network of GCCs, positioning them to further support our enterprise priorities.”

Debasis Panda, Senior Vice President, Global Operations at TransUnion, said: “I am excited about this expanded role and look forward to working with our teams in Costa Rica, India and South Africa as we deepen the exemplary value already offered by our network of GCCs. Our centers enable an ‘always-on workforce’ with robust infrastructure, location advantages and highly skilled talent that provide extended language coverage, business continuity and operational resilience for multiple markets and global functions.”

Debasis has more than 30 years of experience in IT services in global leadership roles, setting up GCCs, development centers, and managing global delivery with P&L responsibilities. He holds a bachelor’s in engineering from the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Rourkela, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) from the Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneswar.

To celebrate Neurodiversity Week, ACCA experts lead global event on why neurodivergent talent in accountancy is critical to the success of the profession in the future.

Results from a major survey of the accountancy profession suggest that employers’ focus on aspects of diversity must be more balanced. 44% of all India respondents expressed concerns that their organisation focuses more on certain aspects of diversity than others, compared to 41% globally. This finding is particularly relevant in a business environment where other markers of diversity such as neurodiversity in the workplace are slowly starting to gain relevant attention.

Md. Sajid Khan, director – ACCA India, commented: “India has made quick progress in this area, but the opportunity now is to expand the focus to include other diversity dimensions such as neurodiversity and disability. This will require coordinated efforts between corporates, communities and government to properly address the issue. Leaders have a critical role to play in driving the equity, diversity and inclusivity agenda.”

To explore the critical issue of neurodiversity in accountancy, ACCA is hosting a global webinar on 21 March hearing from leading experts to explore the power of neurodiverse talent why it matters for today’s profession.

Building on findings from the largest annual global survey of work and talent practices across the accountancy profession with almost 10,000 survey respondents, ACCA’s Global Talent Trends 2024, suggest that equality, diversity and inclusivity (EDI) practices are critical as a key part of the employee proposition. 82% of respondents from India stated that an organisation that has a strong diversity and inclusivity culture would be a key factor in deciding to work there – much higher than the global figure of 73%.

Jamie Lyon, head of skills, sectors and technology at ACCA, said: “To be competitive and innovative for the future, it’s really important that organisations have access to a real diversity of talent in their workforces. One key marker of diversity that demands greater focus in the months and years ahead is neurodiversity, and recognition of the unique skills and capabilities that neuro-divergent talent can bring to the organisation. Over the coming months ACCA will be exploring this key issue and championing this really important agenda across the accountancy profession”.

(L to R) Dr Stacey Farraway, DVC (Future Growth), Samaira Khan-Winner of SRK La Trobe University Ph.D. Scholarship of $225,000 (AUD) with Prof Theo Farrell, Vice-Chancellor & President, La Trobe University, Australia

New Delhi,20th March 2024 The second prestigious Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship was today presented to a New Delhi student with a passion to improve health outcomes for vulnerable communities, to study in Australia.

During a Gala Dinner in Delhi, La Trobe University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Theo Farrell presented Sumaira Khan with the 2024 Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship, valued at more than $225,000 (AUD).

Sumaira was selected from a competitive field of applicants from across India for the four-year scholarship, which recognizes the humanitarian and social justice achievements of Shah Rukh Khan (SRK). The PhD scholarship was made possible through La Trobe’s long-standing partnership with the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne.

Designed to support aspiring female Indian researchers who want to make a meaningful impact in the world, the scholarship enables Sumaira to undertake research at La Trobe’s state-of-the-art facilities in Melbourne, Australia.

Sumaira will work with medical anthropologists Dr Tarryn Phillips and Dr Catherine Trundle to identify ways to improve healthcare for South Asian migrant women in Australia with an elevated risk of Type 2 diabetes. The study seeks to understand the factors that shape and constrain the ability to practice self-care, and inform improved healthcare design, access and equity for healthcare programs in Australia and India.

“I’m very grateful to receive the Shah Rukh Khan scholarship. It’s life-changing for me and my family, and I’m excited to interact with La Trobe’s global community of researchers. It really is my proudest achievement,” Sumaira said.

Shah Rukh Khan said he was delighted to support the development of Indian women to pursue solutions to challenges affecting not just Indian communities, but global issues.

“Sumaira’s passion to improve health outcomes for vulnerable communities is inspiring, and her journey is a wonderful lesson to other Indian women who want to improve lives through scientific study,” Mr Khan said.

“I am pleased to be able to support Sumaira’s ongoing development and education with this scholarship at La Trobe University in Melbourne.”

La Trobe Vice-Chancellor, Professor Theo Farrell, said the University was proud to continue the Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship to a student, whose goal is to support some of the most vulnerable in our community.

“This ongoing scholarship is testament to the strong relationship and shared vision La Trobe has with Mr Khan to inspire positive change through education and find solutions for some of the most challenging issues facing the world,” Professor Farrell said.

“We are delighted to welcome Sumaira to La Trobe.”

Indian Film Festival of Melbourne Director Mitu Bhowmick thanked La Trobe for its ongoing support for furthering the educational opportunities for Indian women.

“I am delighted our festival has been able to bring together SRK and La Trobe University for this scholarship, which provides life-changing opportunities for young Indian female students and inspires future generations,” she said.

Sumaira’s passion for public health grew from her own family’s experiences accessing care for her younger brother when he was diagnosed with severe autism.

In 2022, Sumaira graduated with a Master of Public Health from Mumbai’s Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), where she received the academic prize for best first year student for achieving the highest grades in her cohort.

She has since completed an internship with Save the Children and Sangath, investigated women’s experiences of open defecation in Delhi and explored the research area of early childhood development in India. Sumaira has also worked with a social development research organization in India exploring the domains of primary health care system strengthening and vaccine hesitancy.

“I’m amazed that I have this opportunity to do research in Australia, I hope my story can connect with young girls across India to inspire them to achieve more, to believe that it’s possible for young women to follow their dreams,” she said.

The first recipient of the Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship, Gopika Kottantharayil Bhasi, has completed the first year of her PhD into a field-deployable diagnostic test for honeybee viruses, and with the aim of developing therapies to aid honeybee health.

La Trobe was the first Australian university to award Shah Rukh Khan with an Honorary Degree, Doctor of Letters (honoris causa) during a ceremony at the University’s Melbourne campus in 2019. In recognition of SRK’s wide-ranging humanitarian work, including establishing the Meer Foundation to support and empower women who have survived acid attacks in India.

Kolkata, 20th March, 2024: Dollar Industries Limited, one of the frontrunners in the India hosiery industry, has come to represent affordable fashion and durability for its customers. With their latest advertising campaign, the company has set a new benchmark aimed at shining light yet again on Dollar Bigboss products.

“We have enhanced the Bigboss range to include not only innerwear but also athleisure, gym- wear, and casuals for men. Through our enduring decade-long partnership with our brand ambassador, superstar Mr Akshay Kumar, our brand has experienced substantial growth”, said Mr Vinod Kumar Gupta, Managing Director, Dollar Industries Limited.

The television campaign of Dollar Bigboss is a new take on the brand, underscoring all the inherent values. The storyline is about a suave urban man, unfazed by the chaos and confusion of traffic, on his way to an important meeting.  The wearer (Akshay Kumar) who is scheduled to attend an important meeting is clearly getting badly delayed as his car is caught in a snarl-up over a waterbody. An idea hits him and he decides to ditch the road route and opts to go through water on a skate board as he catches sight of ongoing water sports. The young girl he approaches is only too happy to lend him her board, mesmerised as she is by his aura. So, we catch him gliding smoothly over water, avoiding vehicles altogether and reaching the venue of the meeting right on time, even as attendees are impressed by his punctuality. “Fit hai, Boss,” says the face of the brand, reinforcing the dependability that Dollar Bigboss represents.

The commercial has been directed by the renowned Ad film maker, Uzer Khan and has been released on both electronic and online platforms. There is a concerted plan of supporting the campaign through digital, social media, high-impact outdoor locations, print and TV.

Commenting on the campaign, Mr Mohit Pasricha, Unit Creative Director, Lowe Lintas said “Quite frankly, being punctual isn’t something that should be even up for debate. Unfortunately, being late has become the usual norm. However, come to think about it, and we will realise that the people who should be the most ‘busy’, are in fact very particular about time. The same holds true for Akshay. Despite being such a busy superstar, Akshay is a real stickler for punctuality. So, when we conceived the new commercial, we decided to stitch Akshay’s life values with riveting water-sport action so that in the end, it is not just relatable to the audience but also makes for an entertaining watch”.

CREDITS
Agency: Lowe Lintas Kolkata
Creative: Prateek Bharadwaj, Mohit Pasricha, Sushant Joshi, Sajid Khan, Suyog Mahadik
Account Management: Indranil Mitra, Rohit Chakraborty

Production: 30 Seconds of Fame
Dollar Bigboss is a high-quality collection of men’s underwear and now athleisure, gym wear and casual clothing designed to complement the modern lifestyles of men in the country. Crafted from 100% cotton yarn, the products guarantee comfort and style and ensure every action exudes confidence of the wearer.

India, 20 March 2024 – DBS Bank India announced a lending commitment of USD 250 million for new-age startups today. The initiative is part of the bank’s focus on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the country’s thriving startup ecosystem.

The Indian start-up sector, a foundational pillar of the country’s development goals, has seen significant expansion over the years with over 90,000 start-ups and more than 100 unicorns as of 2024. Despite their growing resilience, access to capital for these companies in the current dynamic environment presents an ongoing challenge. Recognising the disruptive power of the startup segment, particularly those harnessing emerging technologies, DBS Bank India has earmarked lending support of USD 250 million, focusing on enterprises that are set to redefine industry standards with innovative solutions.

Rajat Verma, Managing Director & Head, Institutional Banking Group, DBS Bank India said, “We are inspired by the ability of new age entrepreneurs to harness innovation to solve real world challenges and hope to play a constructive role in their growth. We believe that our lending commitment of USD 250 million for startups comes at an opportune time as the sector has been demonstrating improved operating metrics and a sharper focus on profitability in recent years. DBS Bank India intends to leverage our advanced digital expertise, deep Asian connectivity, and ecosystem partnerships to offer holistic support, even going beyond banking to empower these innovators to streamline operations, manage logistics and gain access to larger business networks. As a different kind of bank, our overarching objective is to become a trusted partner for startups across sectors and support them throughout the business lifecycle.”

The bank’s advanced risk assessment framework, which combines traditional metrics with modern analytical tools, ensures a balanced approach to financing. The comprehensive evaluation process ensures that DBS Bank India can deliver tailored banking solutions that match the dynamism of the industry innovators it partners with. Given the unique hurdles encountered by startups in the digital economy, DBS goes the extra mile to offer a host of exclusive benefits curated from across partners, which will enable these companies to bolster agility and unlock growth. Through platforms like DBS Businessclass FoundED, the bank celebrates modern-day founders, engaging with over 1000 startups and 50 incubators across India till date.

Hyderabad, March 20, 2024: Not-For-Profit Society, IIT Hyderabad Technology Incubation Center (iTIC) an incubator under the aegis of the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) and Ansys Software Private Limited (Ansys, NASDAQ: ANSS), a leading engineering simulation software company in India, have joined forces to leverage the strengths of both organisations to empower technology startups in the field of engineering simulation. Ansys and iTIC have signed a Memorandum of Understanding in this regard.

“Ansys is excited about the collaboration with IIT Hyderabad’s iTIC Incubator, as this partnership emphasises our unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and empowering technology startups in India. Through this alliance, Ansys is dedicated to providing crucial resources for IITH Startup Companies at a startup price point to catalyse technological advancements and support the vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in the country. We look forward to playing a pivotal role in the growth journey of these startups, driving engineering excellence, and contributing to India’s innovation landscape.” said Mike Yeager, Area Vice President of Sales, India and Japan, Ansys.

Technical mentoring, and startup access will be provided for technology startups within the iTIC incubator premises.

“I am looking forward to this collaboration with Ansys as it aligns with iTIC Incubator’s mission to incubate and accelerate startups in India. This strategic partnership will undoubtedly propel the innovative journey of our budding entrepreneurs by facilitating access to simulation tools. Ansys’ commitment to providing simulation for IITH Startup Companies resonates with our vision of nurturing startups from ideation to realisation. This will contribute towards fostering a thriving technological innovation and growth ecosystem in India.” said Dr. S. Surya Kumar, Vice-President, iTIC Foundation.

With a focus on creating a nurturing environment for technology entrepreneurs, the iTIC Incubator provides stage-wise intervention for startups to grow in the deep-tech entrepreneurial ecosystem. iTIC helps entrepreneurs leverage a premier-quality research and startup ecosystem to build a Ansys Named in Fast Company’s Third Annual List of the 100 Best Workplaces for Innovators comprehensive platform to practice innovation and entrepreneurship and turn these entrepreneurial ideas into sustainable, scalable, profit-making business ventures.

“Ansys is happy to collaborate with IIT Hyderabad’s iTIC Incubator leveraging the benefits that are part of our Ansys Startups Program. Through this program, we are already working towards making big dreams a reality for early-stage startups with limited funding and resources. Ansys provides full access to Multiphysics simulation software and HPC at affordable prices to facilitate quick and cost- effective engineering projects. The program also provides startups access to Ansys’ broad portfolio of bundled and reasonably priced simulation solutions while considerably cutting down on physical prototype tests, reducing time-to-market for these startups. IITH Startup Companies can also access Ansys Learning Hub, classroom, virtual and self paced programs designed to improve their technical knowledge.” said Murali Pullela, Sales Director, Ansys.

Ansys has developed its Startup Program to offer early-stage startups access to Multiphysics simulation software and high-performance computing to address engineering challenges efficiently. The program has gained traction globally, with over 2,100 startups from diverse industries benefitting from Ansys solutions since the program’s inception.

Hyderabad, March 19, 2024……. Currently, there is a wide gap between industries and academia, there is a wide gap between what students possess and what industry requires and there is a wide gap between acquired knowledge and required knowledge in India, said Dir. U.B. Desai, founding Director of the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad and Chancellor, of Anurag University

Dr Desai was the Chief Guest at the inauguration of the MBA Business Analytics –Industry Immersive Program at Anurag University, the first private University in the state.

Dr Balaji Utla, Registrar, Ms. S. Neelima, CEO and others have graced the occasion.

Dr Desai spoke to the students and interacted with faculty after the launch of the program

Speaking about Industry-Academia Connect, he said, there is a lot more to be done. We are just taking baby steps in developing a strong connection. That is because of the lack of clear policy in strengthening ties between them.

Several luminaries and academia opined in the past that Industry-Academia Collaboration Should be Mandatory by Law. When asked about his opinion about the same, Dr Desai said, academia and industry are interdependent. And change cannot be brought by force.

Speaking further he added that Academia and Industry are interdependent. The Sooner this is recognised the better the outcomes will be.

The initiative is the brainchild of Dr Balaji Utla, Registrar, and founder CEO of Satyam Learning.

Prof of Practice Venugopal said the MBA Business Analytics Industry Immersive Program is probably one of the industry’s first initiatives introduced with the sole aim of producing industry-ready Management Graduates. Under this program, 35 students who are pursuing MBA Analytics not only learn theory but also put into practice the same by being themselves as business owners while pursuing their studies.

According to Dr Syed Mansoor Pash, Program Director, it is a combination of management and technology and is probably the first Immersive Learning programme in Business Analytics in India. The program is uniquely designed to allow students to do projects every alternate term for a total of 6 terms. This offers an opportunity to do real-life and near-real-life projects so the students can practice the concepts/tools learnt in the earlier term.

During the program students will be treated as employees working in a temporary organization so that they are industry-ready by the time of completion of the Programme, said Dr V. Vishnu Vandana, Head of the Department, School of Management, Anurag University.

Academia, industry experts and Professors of Practice as envisaged in the New Education Policy (NEP) will guide students and help them navigate through the program.

Bengaluru 19th March, 2024 : CG Foods, owned by Nepal’s only dollar billionaire Dr. Binod Chaudhary, is all set to disrupt $1.88-billion instant noodle market in India. Chaudhary Group (CG), a diversified multinational conglomerate, announces the launch of two innovative noodle variants, SMN (Seasoned Masala Noodles) and Dynamite (Korean Super Spicy Range).

Ayushmann Khurrana Champions the Bold Flavours of SMN (Seasoned Masala Noodles)

The beloved Bollywood star and heartthrob of the millennials, Ayushmann Khurrana, endorses the “Masale Pe Masala” Seasoned Masala Noodles, an inventive take on the classic Ready-To-Eat (RTE) Brown Noodles. The SMN range is a flavourful adventure, packing seasoning and extra dehydrated veggies into a true value-for-money meal. Available in three pocket-friendly price points — Rs 15, Rs 20, and a Rs 90 six-in-one pack — SMN caters to diverse consumer needs because of its mild spicy appeal.

Dynamite: A Spicy Ode to Korean Flavours

The “Dynamite” range, known as the “Spice Blitz Noodles”, is a fiery tribute to Korean cuisine with a desi twist, a happy blend of Sichuan Pepper and Korean Chilli in vegetarian variants, and Xtra Spicy Chicken and The Himalayan Hot Chicken in non-vegetarian options.

Initially launched to cater to the palate of consumers in North-east India, the inclusion of the world-renowned Ghost Pepper or Bhut Jolokia — the hottest chilli in the world — in the Dynamite range is CG Foods’ innovative response to the growing demand for spicy flavours and the ever-increasing popularity of Korean cuisine.

Mr. Varun Chaudhary, Managing Director, CG Foods, who is powering WAI WAI’s growth in India and other geographies, is upbeat about the launch of a bouquet of products. “We’re excited to unveil our latest noodle innovations: Seasoned Masala Noodles (SMN) & Dynamite Range. We’re a firm believer in offering unique culinary delights to our customers at regular intervals. Endorsed by Ayushmann Khurrana, these new flavours seek to tap into the vibrant palates of millennials and Gen Z. Our latest offerings will further establish WAI WAI as an innovative, consumer-centric brand. They are perfectly aligned with the tastes and lifestyles of our consumers of varying age groups.”

Ayushmann Khurrana shared his excitement about the launch “I am delighted to partner with Wai Wai, a brand distinguished by its dynamic and eclectic product portfolio. Wai Wai’s exceptional range of noodles, designed to cater to a wide array of tastes, preferences, and regional flavours have struck a big chord with the consumers. It’s a brand that consistently lives up to its reputation by offering such a vibrant and diverse selection.”

Manvendra Amber Shukla, Global CEO CG Foods, weighed in on the brand’s legacy.

“WAI WAI is not just a brand; it’s a journey down memory lane for our loyal customers. At the heart of our growth lies innovation, seamlessly blending tradition with the pulse of contemporary palate. Our latest creation, the flavorful SMN pack, endorsed by the charismatic Ayushmann Khurrana, marks a new chapter in our quest to delight the evolving palate of our consumers. Witnessing the meteoric rise of the Korean noodles segment in India from a mere Rs 2 crore in 2021 to an impressive Rs 65 crore in 2023, we’re inspired to bring our own twist to the table with ‘Dynamite.’ This venture not only introduces a fiery Korean flavor but also expands our horizons with a diverse range of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. We’re excited to spice up the noodle market and can’t wait to see our cherished customers, old and new, relish these awesome flavours.”

WAI WAI is growing at a breakneck speed in over 46 countries across Asia, Europe and Africa. CG Foods, a pioneer in the $70-billion food industry in India and a part of CG Corp Global, reinforces its commitment to innovation and quality through its seven manufacturing units in the country coupled with its multiple production facilities in Nepal, Serbia, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, and Egypt.