Archives November 2024

Vikas Chawla is The Outstanding Leader of the Year at the FICCI Young Leadership Awards 2024

Chennai, India – Thursday, 14th November 2024 — Social Beat announced today that Vikas Chawla, Co-Founder, has been recognized as The Outstanding Leader of the Year for 2024 by the FICCI Young Leadership Awards 2024 jury. This is in acknowledgment of Vikas’s exceptional leadership, dedication, and transformative impact in the digital marketing space.

Vikas Chawla simultaneously manages three successful agencies—Social Beat, Influencer.in, and D2Scale—with a collective team of over 300 members. Under his exemplary leadership, the agencies have thrived, despite challenges and hurdles, delivering consistent growth and success for a wide array of clients.

Vikas Chawla- Outstanding Leader of the Year

Reflecting on his experience over the last decade, Vikas Chawla, Co-Founder, of Social Beat said,“Leadership isn’t about perfection; it’s about being present. You don’t need to have all the answers, having confidence in your team makes a world of difference. Every step—from making tough decisions to navigating sleepless nights—demands resilience, strategic thinking, and unwavering commitment. My role is to support the team, inspire them, and foster a collaborative environment that enables collective success.”

This achievement celebrates Vikas’s leading by example and cultivating an environment where each team member can thrive. He has consistently driven results and positively impacted clients and colleagues by fostering a culture of continuous learning, innovation, creativity, and teamwork.

About Social Beat:

Founded in 2012, Social Beat is a digital growth partner, enabling brands to rise to the impossible. They drive business outcomes 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, and Meta Business Partner and works closely with ecosystem partners like Amazon, Hotstar, Salesforce & LinkedIn. D2Scale is their center of excellence for commerce & omni channels brands to drive growth via D2C & Marketplaces. 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, Indian Terrain, Samsonite, Mankind Pharma, Kalpataru Group, Go Colors, Mahindra Finance, JK Cement, Sundaram Mutual, Khazana Jewellery and with hyperscaling startups including boAt, Niyo, Gamezy, A23 Games, EaseMyTrip, Kapiva, Drools and Sukoon Health on driving business outcomes through a combination of creativity and performance.

A new automated way to present cybersecurity to the board: SeeMetrics’ Specialized Executive Board Reporting

Tel Aviv, November 14, 2024 – SeeMetrics, the leading cybersecurity data automation and risk management platform, today launched a breakthrough approach to executive board reporting for cybersecurity. For the first time, cybersecurity leaders can generate comprehensive, custom reports for the board, with clear visual narratives on organizational performance and key improvement areas—without the need to translate complex technical language into business terms.

Traditional board reporting has often been lengthy, rigid, and difficult to adapt for diverse board audiences. Security leaders face challenges in determining which details matter most, navigating board members’ varied levels of cybersecurity knowledge, and avoiding over-reliance on static metrics. SeeMetrics addresses these issues directly by providing a flexible, user-centric approach to board reporting.

With customizable, pre-built metric templates, SeeMetrics enables security leaders to quickly assemble and present actionable insights on risks, policies, threat mitigation, and product utilization. The platform allows security leaders to tailor their reports according to board members’ priorities, making it easier to deliver key information, regardless of each member’s cybersecurity background. 

In just a few clicks, security leaders select relevant visualized analytics and insights, and instantly generate high-level reports that highlight organizational performance. Reports can also be broken down into detailed views with actionable recommendations to close security gaps and mitigate risks—all presented in clear, accessible language.

“Now, CISOs can create reports that are easily understandable and digestible,” explains Shirley Salzman, Co-Founder and CEO of SeeMetrics. “Our metrics templates, grounded in industry standards and best practices, give security leaders a solid foundation to narrate cybersecurity program effectiveness, prioritize initiatives, and present a holistic view of cybersecurity efforts. This helps them to build the narrative they want to share with their board.”

SeeMetrics’ methodology promotes shared responsibility in cybersecurity by fostering ongoing transparency within the security organization. This allows collaboration between CISOs and the board to become ongoing, data driven and most importantly, simpler. By offering automated, continuous insights and narrative flexibility, SeeMetrics empowers leaders to present customized perspectives that resonate with their board’s understanding and interests.

By using SeeMetrics’ specialized automated cybersecurity executive board reportingcybersecurity leaders can deliver impactful board reports that not only present how the organization is trending but also convey a proactive, continuously strategic approach to prioritizing  risks and safeguarding the organization, without all the cumbersome efforts of data collection and analysis.

Wardwizard Foods and Beverages Limited Expands Global Footprint with Frozen Food Shipment under ‘QuikShef’ to Canada, USA, and UAE

Vadodara, 14 November 2024 – In a significant move that underscores India’s growing presence in the global frozen food market, Wardwizard Foods and Beverages Limited under has successfully shipped a diverse product range of under the brand QuikShef to Canada, USA, and UAE. This shipment to USA and UAE includes popular items such as Ready to Eat Indian Meals, such as Palak Paneer, Dal Makhni, Kadhi Pakoda, including customized products such as Gujarati Dal and Amritsari Chole. Additionally, the shipment to Canada includes frozen foods with a distinctive Indian flair, such as Jain Pizza, Veggie Delight Pizza, Tandoori Paneer Pizza, along with a variety of savory snacks like Burger Patties and Cheese Corn Samosas, catering to diverse palates and preferences.

Reflecting on this achievement, Mrs. Sheetal Bhalerao, Chairperson and Managing Director, Wardwizard Foods and Beverages Ltd, said, “Our journey towards taking authentic Indian flavors to the global market is gaining momentum with each new milestone. This shipment is a step towards sharing the richness of Indian cuisine with an international audience. We are pleased to see QuikShef products reach new regions, from traditional Indian meals to fusion items like our pizzas, resonating with consumers abroad. Looking ahead, our goal is to enter additional global markets, offering a versatile range of flavors that embody the richness of Indian cuisine and cater to diverse tastes worldwide.”

The consignment for Canada, shipped to Ontario and Toronto, consists of 1320 boxes featuring high-quality vegetarian options, tailored to cater to the evolving tastes of international consumers. This strategic venture not only highlights the increasing demand for Indian cuisine abroad but also positions Wardwizard as a key player in the competitive frozen food sector.

In addition to the recent shipment to Canada, Wardwizard Foods and Beverages Limited under the brand name ‘QuikShef’ recently exported products to the USA, specifically to New Jersey. The retail product line is available in the ‘Indian Grocers’ retail chain, further expanding the company’s reach in the North American market.

Moreover, in May 2024, the company shipped 1300 cartons of Ready-to-Eat (RTE) products to Dubai, UAE, and followed this with a June 2024 shipment of 500 cartons to New Jersey, USA. These achievements underline the company’s strategic focus on expanding its global presence, particularly in regions with a strong demand for authentic Indian cuisine.

As consumers worldwide embrace convenience without compromising on taste or nutrition, Wardwizard is poised to capitalize on this trend by providing authentic Indian flavors that resonate with diverse palates. The shipment is a testament to India’s potential as a hub for premium frozen food production and signifies enhanced opportunities for local manufacturers in the international arena.

Wardwizard Foods and Beverages Limited remains dedicated to delivering innovative food solutions while contributing to India’s economic growth through export initiatives. This latest development marks another milestone in their journey towards becoming a recognized leader in the global frozen food market.

Superstar Babbu Mann Inspires 500 Children at Roundglass Foundation’s Sports Centre in Kheri Bir Singh

14 November 2024, National: One of the biggest stars of Punjabi music Babbu Maan, visited Roundglass Foundation’s Sport Centre in Kheri Bir Singh village on Sunday, November 10,2024 to encourage children to engage in sports for their overall development. More than 500 children from Roundglass Foundation’s Sports Centres in Ludhiana and Fatehgarh Sahib districts thronged the village to get a glimpse of their star and a chance to speak with him.

Known for his distinctive music and lyrics and the winner of the World Music Awards, Maan underscored the importance of sports in life and encouraged children to play outdoors more and spend less time on screens. “We spend a large part of our day glued to our phones. This fuels frustration and makes us vulnerable to bad habits. I believe that coming out to a field to play is so much better than spending time on social media. Roundglass Foundation is doing a fantastic job of inspiring children to come out and play by giving them access to qualified coaches and sports equipment, all free of cost. They have my wholehearted support. I request more people to support Roundglass Foundation on this journey. And my advice to children is that you spend more time playing outdoors as sports will help you grow physically and mentally,” said Maan.

Babbu Mann also distributed footballs among girls and announced the launch of Roundglass Foundation Football Cup 2024, which will start from November 14.

The RGFFC is a unique inter-village football tournament for children, which will see participation from almost 4,000 children, between the ages of 5 and 16 years, from 300 villages of Punjab. A total of 290 village teams, including 50 girls’ teams, will compete for the trophy in the U12 and U16 age categories. The final will be played on November 23,2024 in Mohali.

This tournament is part of Roundglass Foundation’s larger mission to rekindle Punjab’s sporting culture and a reminder of the state’s towering sports legacy. In the past four years, Roundglass Foundation has set up 400 Sports Centres in more than 350 villages in Punjab, which are engaging 11,000+ children in the age group of 5 to 16 years, including girls, to learn and play team sports like football.

These Sports Centres are safe spaces to nurture children’s potential for leadership, teamwork, and discipline, and enable them to make positive life choices. Playing organized sport holds greater value for girls as it helps them break gender stereotypes and increases their self-confidence and self-esteem. This year’s inclusion of girls’ teams reflects the Foundation’s commitment to gender inclusivity and equal opportunity in sports.

Speaking on the occasion, Vishal ChowlaLeader of Roundglass Foundation, expressed his gratitude to Babbu Maan for taking time out to visit the Sports Centre. “Role models like Babbu Maan inspire children to think big and work hard in life to make their dreams come true. Our Sports Centres are giving children in the villages an opportunity to play and using sports to inculcate leadership, teamwork, discipline and resilience in children. The Roundglass Foundation Football Cup is a step in this direction. We hope that this tournament will give children a platform to express their passion and energy, embrace their roots and celebrate their village community. I invite everyone to join us for the tournament and support our mission to develop Punjab’s youth by leveraging sports and technology.”

Star Bharat’s show ‘Shaitani Rasmein’ actress Sumit Singh shared a heartfelt message she’d love to give her younger self

Children’s Day, celebrated on November 14 – in India, is a joyful occasion dedicated to honoring childhood and recognizing the rights, well-being, and dreams of every child. Actress Sumit Singh who is playing the lead role of Pinni in the Star Bharat’s show ‘Shaitani Rasmein’ shared her childhood memories on this Children’s Day.

She shared, “I absolutely love Children’s Day! It brings back all those amazing memories from school, there’d be these lively stalls run by us students, and we’d organize all sorts of fun games. I had the best time every year! Honestly, if I could go back, I’d relive every bit of my childhood and school days in a heartbeat. I feel like I grew up too fast. I’d love to go back, make new friends, and maybe even make some silly mistakes along the way. Growing up, I always admired my mom; she’s in the police force, and I thought I wanted to follow in her footsteps. But over time, I realized just how tough that path was. Around the 6th grade, my heart started leaning towards acting. I’d watch TV, mimic the dialogues, and break into little dance routines. No one back then could’ve guessed I’d become an actress! Acting is all I know, and I’m pouring my heart and soul into becoming the best artist I can be.”

She shared a heartfelt message she’d love to give her younger self, “Don’t be so quiet! I was so shy, sitting alone without friends, barely talking to anyone at school. It took me until 10th grade to even wonder why I wasn’t opening up! At home, I could chat, but at school, I’d just go silent, I still can’t quite explain it. If I could go back, I’d tell myself to be more open, to embrace life, and enjoy those school years fully. I grew up away from my mother, so if I could relive those early school days, I’d spend more time with her and my siblings. Those moments, that family connection. That’s a real luxury to me. Even now, given the chance, I’d love to spend more time with them and create even more memories together.”

Special Olympics Bharat organising “I&U Special Harmony on 17th November 2024 at Thyagraj Stadium in Delhi

New Delhi , 14th November 2024 : Special Olympics Bharat organising  I & U  Special Harmony cultural Evening on 17th November 2024 at Thyagraj Stadium in Delhi. This is an unforgettable evening celebrating inclusivity, featuring Legendary singers Amit Kumar and Moktika Amit Kumar will share the stage with talented specially-abled performers. Honored guests Dr. Malika Nadda (President, Special Olympics Bharat) and Shri Manoj Tiwari (Member of Parliament) will attend the cultural evening .

Dr. Malika Nadda ,President, Special Olympics Bharat said our main aim to organised this programme – “I&U Special Harmony”  to promotes inclusivity, empowering specially-abled individuals through music and performance.

Date: November 17, 2024

Venue: Thyagraj Stadium, Delhi

Time: 6 PM – 9 PM

Conosh Brings Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura Seoul to India for the First Time with an Exclusive Pop-Up at JW Marriott, Bengaluru

Bengaluru, 14th November 2024 –ConoshIndia’s premier platform for immersive dining experiences, is excited to introduce Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura Seoul to India for the very first time with an exclusive popup event in Bengaluru. Taking place on November 15th and 16th at the JW MarriottBengaluru, this exceptional event is a celebration of the highest forms of style, elegance, and artistry, blending world-class cuisine with the refined sensibilities of high fashion. 

The bespoke menu features seven courses and is a masterful fusion of Italian and Korean culinary traditions, carefully crafted to create an experience that is not only unique but entirely unmatched.  The menu features signature dishes by Executive Chef Hyungkyu Jun, where every dish tells a story, a narrative of innovation and passion while paying homage to the rich cultural legacies of both Italy and Korea. 

Speaking about the dinner, Neha Malik and Vaibhav Bahl, Co-Founders, Conosh, said “We are exhilarated to host the first-ever Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura Seoul dinner in India, an extraordinary occasion that merges the realms of haute cuisine and high fashion. Conosh is setting a new benchmark for sophistication and gastronomic artistry in India by bringing a luxury brand-led culinary establishment of such calibre. Hosted at the JW Marriott Bengaluru, it’s an experience that embodies the pinnacle of culinary craftsmanship and exceptional elegance. We are incredibly proud to welcome the Gucci Osteria Seoul team to our country and elevate India’s dining scene.”

As a pioneer in curating unforgettable culinary experiences, Conosh takes immense pride in presenting the Gucci Osteria Seoul popup in India, a testament to its commitment to redefining the dining landscape in the country. Conosh has consistently sought to bring global gastronomic excellence to Indian audiences, bridging the worlds of fine dining and culture through unparalleled collaborations. By working with prestigious chefs and celebrated culinary institutions worldwide, Conosh has established itself as a leader in the epicurean space, dedicated to offering experiences that are both unique and transformative. This partnership with Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura Seoul is yet another example of Conosh’s vision to introduce Indian diners to exclusive global culinary narratives, setting a new standard in immersive dining.

Sharing his thoughts on the collaboration, Mr. Gaurav Sinha, Hotel Manager, JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru said, “It gives me great pleasure to welcome Executive Chef Hyungkyu Jun and the incredibly talented Gucci Osteria team all the way from Seoul for their first culinary presentation in India, right here at the JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru. We are happy to serve our guests with a unique opportunity to indulge in contemporary Italian cuisine prepared by one of the world’s most renowned culinary teams. It is an exciting time for JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru as we introduce such distinctive foreign cuisines to the heart of the city, honouring the creativity and innovation that Gucci Osteria represents.”

Expressing his excitement about Gucci Osteria Seoul’s debut in India, Executive Chef Hyungkyu Jun said,  “I am very excited to bring a taste of Gucci Osteria Seoul to India with Conosh. I am looking forward to letting our cuisine meet the rich and fabulous variety of local herbs and spices and learning more about the country’s culinary tradition.”

This exclusive Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura Seoul popup at JW Marriott Bengaluru, curated by Conosh, marks a significant chapter in India‘s evolving culinary landscape, offering a unique opportunity for gourmet enthusiasts to experience an unforgettable amalgamation of luxury and taste. Through this experience, Conosh continues to champion unparalleled dining that transcends borders, inviting guests to savour the finest flavours in an ambiance that epitomises sophistication and cultural fusion. 

Energy Gel Products Market: Fueling the Growth of Sports Nutrition and Performance

The global energy gel products market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the expanding interest in sports nutrition, the rising focus on fitness, and the increasing demand for performance-enhancing solutions among athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Energy gels, which are convenient, easy-to-consume supplements designed to provide a quick source of energy during physical activities, have gained traction as an essential part of endurance sports nutrition. The market for energy gel products is poised to witness further expansion in the coming years, with advancements in formulation and a greater focus on health-conscious consumers. By 2030, the market is expected to achieve substantial growth, underpinned by the increasing adoption of energy gels across various sports and fitness categories.

Overview of the Energy Gel Products Market

Energy gels are specially formulated products that deliver a concentrated dose of carbohydrates, electrolytes, and sometimes additional ingredients like caffeine, amino acids, or vitamins to help athletes maintain endurance and performance levels during intense physical activity. These gels are widely used by runners, cyclists, triathletes, and other endurance athletes to support energy levels during long periods of exertion.

The energy gel market encompasses a wide range of products, from traditional carbohydrate-based gels to more specialized formulas designed to offer additional benefits such as hydration, muscle recovery, and mental focus. Energy gels come in various flavors and consistencies to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of consumers. The market for energy gel products is expected to reach a healthy CAGR of 7.1% during 2024 to 2031 as per report published by Persistence Market Research.

The energy gel products market has witnessed a surge in demand, spurred by the growing interest in sports, fitness, and overall health and wellness. As more people engage in endurance sports and activities, there has been a noticeable shift towards using specialized nutrition to support performance. The market is projected to continue its upward trajectory, supported by product innovations, increasing consumer awareness, and a more health-conscious global population.

Key Drivers of Growth

  • Rising Popularity of Endurance Sports: Endurance sports such as running, cycling, triathlons, and marathons have gained significant popularity in recent years. As these activities require sustained energy over extended periods, athletes are turning to energy gels as a quick and efficient way to refuel. The growth of marathons, cycling events, and triathlons globally is directly correlated with the demand for energy gels, as athletes increasingly seek ways to optimize their performance.
  • Focus on Fitness and Wellness: A growing trend toward fitness and wellness, fueled by an increasing awareness of the benefits of regular physical activity, has contributed to the rising demand for sports nutrition products, including energy gels. People are not only participating in competitive sports but are also adopting fitness regimens to improve health and well-being. Energy gels, which offer a portable and easy-to-use solution for maintaining energy during exercise, are becoming an integral part of personal fitness routines.
  • Increased Adoption Among Non-Professional Athletes: Energy gels are no longer limited to professional athletes. As recreational sports and fitness activities gain traction, non-professional athletes are increasingly adopting energy gels as part of their nutrition strategy. Fitness enthusiasts, amateur marathoners, and casual cyclists are looking for convenient products that help them maintain energy and performance, driving the demand for energy gels.
  • Technological Advancements in Product Formulation: Manufacturers of energy gels are continually improving their formulations to meet the changing needs of consumers. Advances in ingredient science have led to the development of gels with better texture, taste, and effectiveness. For example, the inclusion of electrolytes, amino acids, and caffeine in energy gels provides athletes with additional benefits, enhancing hydration, reducing fatigue, and boosting focus. The development of natural and organic energy gel options has also attracted health-conscious consumers.
  • Increasing Awareness of Nutritional Needs in Sports: Athletes and fitness enthusiasts are becoming more educated about the importance of proper nutrition for performance and recovery. As a result, there is growing recognition of the role energy gels play in providing essential nutrients during exercise. This increased awareness is driving the demand for energy gels as a crucial component of sports nutrition.

Market Dynamics

  • Regional Insights: The energy gel products market is experiencing substantial growth across various regions. North America, particularly the United States, holds a dominant share of the market due to the high participation rates in endurance sports and the increasing consumer interest in sports nutrition. The U.S. market is characterized by a well-established sports culture, which has contributed to the widespread adoption of energy gels.

In Europe, endurance sports like cycling and running have a strong following, further fueling the demand for energy gels. Countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, and France have a large base of athletes who use energy gels as part of their training and competition routines. Additionally, the growing trend toward health and wellness in these regions is driving the demand for energy-enhancing products.

Asia-Pacific is expected to see the fastest growth in the energy gel market, driven by rising interest in fitness, increased participation in sports events, and expanding disposable incomes in countries like China, India, and Japan. The increasing popularity of running events and marathons in these countries is contributing to the growing demand for energy gels.

  • Competitive Landscape: The energy gel products market is highly competitive, with both established and emerging players offering a variety of products. Key players in the market include brands such as GU Energy Labs, Clif Bar & Company, Honey Stinger, and Skratch Labs. These companies are continuously innovating to develop new flavors, formulations, and packaging to cater to the evolving needs of athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

In addition to the larger brands, smaller niche companies are also entering the market, offering specialized products such as organic energy gels, vegan options, and gels with unique ingredients like adaptogens and nootropics. This competitive environment fosters innovation and encourages brands to differentiate themselves through quality, taste, and functionality.

  • Impact of COVID-19: The COVID-19 pandemic had a mixed impact on the energy gel market. On the one hand, the cancellation of large-scale sports events and fitness competitions disrupted the demand for energy gels. However, as people increasingly engaged in at-home workouts and sought ways to maintain their fitness levels during lockdowns, the demand for sports nutrition products, including energy gels, remained strong. As restrictions ease and sports events resume, the market is expected to rebound and continue its growth trajectory.

Emerging Trends in the Energy Gel Market

  • Natural and Organic Products: There is a growing demand for natural and organic energy gels as consumers become more health-conscious and seek cleaner products with fewer artificial ingredients. Manufacturers are responding to this trend by offering energy gels that are free from synthetic additives, preservatives, and artificial sweeteners, catering to the demand for clean-label products.
  • Performance-Enhancing Ingredients: The use of performance-enhancing ingredients such as caffeine, amino acids, and electrolytes is gaining popularity in energy gels. These ingredients help to improve endurance, reduce fatigue, and enhance mental focus, making them appealing to athletes looking for an edge in their performance. As athletes seek more tailored products, the inclusion of functional ingredients in energy gels is likely to continue to rise.
  • Sustainability in Packaging: With growing environmental concerns, energy gel manufacturers are focusing on sustainability in packaging. The use of recyclable materials, biodegradable pouches, and reduced plastic packaging is becoming more common in the energy gel market. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing brands that align with their environmental values, driving the demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions.
  • Customization and Personalization: As the market becomes more competitive, energy gel brands are exploring ways to offer personalized solutions. Customizable products, such as gels tailored to specific dietary preferences (e.g., vegan, gluten-free), are gaining popularity. Additionally, brands are offering personalized nutrition plans that incorporate energy gels based on individual fitness goals and nutritional needs.

Challenges Facing the Energy Gel Market

  • Taste and Texture Preferences: While energy gels are popular for their convenience and effectiveness, one of the major challenges is addressing consumer preferences for taste and texture. Many consumers find the consistency of energy gels to be off-putting, and the taste can be a barrier to regular usage. Manufacturers are investing in improving the taste and texture of energy gels to make them more appealing to a broader audience.
  • Price Sensitivity: Despite their benefits, energy gels can be relatively expensive compared to other sports nutrition products. Price-sensitive consumers may opt for more affordable alternatives, limiting the growth of the market. However, with increased competition and economies of scale, manufacturers are working to offer more cost-effective options without compromising on quality

Vargamantri created by Khaas Re TV streaming from November 8

While the state assembly election buzz is in full swing, the excitement of the Vargamantri (Class Monitor) election is about to kick off in schools. Leading Marathi content creator Khaas Re TV has created the web series Vargamantri, featuring a stellar cast including Akshaya Deodhar, Avinash Narkar, and Neha Shitole. The trailer for this web series has recently been launched on social media, and it is set to start streaming from November 8.

Produced by Narendra Firodia of Anushka Motion Pictures and Entertainment, Vargamantri is directed by Sanjay Shridhar Kamble. The team also includes Ajinkya, Sanket, Pravin & Sanjay as a writers, Krishna Jannu as editor, Ajay Ghadge on cinematography, Niranjan Padgaonkar as the music director, Shreyas Erande for background score, and Sagar Gaikwad as the art director.

The series reflects how students are introduced to civic lessons and democratic processes through school elections. In the storyline, a school decides to conduct an election for the Vargamantri position. The entire process of students’ nominations, filling out forms, campaigning, and voting is captured, filled with fun and excitement. The trailer indicates that the series promises to be highly entertaining. Known for its authentic Marathi content with a rural backdrop, Khaas Re TV has established a unique identity in the Marathi web space, and with Vargamantri, it’s set to make an impressive mark in the world of web series as well.

&TV, Its back! Zee Entertainment UK launches First Hindi Entertainment Channel on Samsung TV Plus in the UK

London, 13th November 2024 : Zee Entertainment UK is doing all what it takes and is excited to expand its reach and diversify its portfolio of channels in the UK and Europe with the launch of another entertainment channel, &TV, on Samsung TV Plus. This launch follows the successful introductions of Zee One in Germany, Zee World English, and Zee Magic in France.

&TV marks a significant milestone as the first Hindi Entertainment Channel on Samsung TV Plus in the UK, targeting the 5 million-strong South Asian population in the country. This development comes on the heels of the successful launches of Zee One in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria in September 2023.

&TV promises to deliver high quality entertainment with most popular shows; Bhabhi ji Ghar Pe Hain, Atal, Begusarai, Tere Bin, Ghar Ek Mandir, available with English subtitles. These programs showcase relatable experiences, emotions, and cultural subtleties, crafting compelling narratives that strike a chord with the sensibilities of the British Asian audience. This foray on a familiar platform is poised to strengthen relationships with the British Asian audiences, fostering even closer connections with India, ensuring a delightful and enthralling viewing experience on Samsung TV Plus.

Stuart Pearson, UK Lead, Content Acquisition at Samsung TV Plus, said,” We are thrilled to introduce &TV to Samsung TV Plus in the UK. This exciting addition brings countless hours of Bollywood-centric content to viewers in the region. Our partnership with Zee is built on robust fundamentals of audience engagement, and we are delighted to continue this successful collaboration.

Ashok Namboodiri, Chief Business Officer – International Business, expressed his excitement, saying, “We are absolutely delighted to announce the launch of our new channel, marking the first Hindi language channel on Samsung TV Plus. This incredible collaboration allows us to bring even more of our engaging and popular content to viewers in the UK. Following the successful launches of three other channels in the UK and Europe, this partnership with Samsung TV Plus is truly remarkable and an exciting milestone for us.”

Samsung TV Plus is Samsung’s own FAST (free ad-supporter streaming TV) service. No subscription, sign-up, additional devices, or credit card are required. It comes pre-installed on Samsung Smart TVs from 2016 to 2024 and can be downloaded from the Google Play and Galaxy Store on Samsung Galaxy devices in select territories. With Samsung TV Plus, users can access numerous channels spanning news, sports, entertainment, along with a library of movies and popular shows for on-demand viewing. This ad-supported service is accessible in the UK and 15 other European regions, requiring only an internet connection.