Hanumankind And Vishal Dadlani Turn Up The Thunder For Thums Up’s New Anthem Launch In Mumbai

India’s iconic billion-dollar brand Thums Up just dropped a high-octane ‘Taste the Thunder’ anthem with Hanumankind and Vishal Dadlani. Capturing the brand’s signature toofani spirit, the line “Aaj Kuch Toofani Kartein Hain” forms the lyrical core for the song - packing in raw, unapologetic energy and youthful attitude in every beat.

Thums Up’s collab with Hanumankind and Vishal Dadlani amplifies youth relevance and sharpens its position as a bold cultural innovator. Reflecting Thums Up’s strong taste and toofani personality, both artists embody intensity, instinct, and individuality. Hanumankind brings in the uncompromising edge of India’s new-age hip-hop movement – raw and rooted in street cred. Vishal brings decades of mainstream cultural authority and cross-generational rock resonance. Conceptualized by WPP Ogilvy, and produced in collaboration with Universal Music Group, the Taste the Thunder anthem puts out a clarion call to youth to do something epic today!

The anthem was debuted at an invite-only press and creator showcase in Mumbai, attended by Hanumankind, Vishal Dadlani, Bijoy Shetty, Sushin Shyam, and Varun Grover. Directed by Bijoy Shetty, it delivers powerful visuals that speak directly to India’s youth. Composed by Sushin Shyam, the track carries a contemporary, cinematic sound, while Varun Grover’s Hindi lyrics capture youth camaraderie and collective energy. Hanumankind’s English rap adds a raw, fearless edge, bringing the anthem’s bold spirit to life.

The anthem also features notable sports personalities, including cricketers Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh, further cementing Thums Up’s long-standing connection with cricket. It anchors the brand’s new summer campaign, which goes live during the much-awaited ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Thums Up is merging the trifecta of cricket, cinema, and music to create high-decibel, surround-sound marketing across multimedia platforms.

Greishma Singh, Vice President, Marketing, Coca-Cola India and Southwest Asia said, “Young consumers are increasingly moving from passive viewership to active participation. They seek moments that pull them in, move fast, and feel real. That belief has shaped the ‘Taste the Thunder’ anthem. ‘Aaj Kuch Toofani Karte Hain’ is a shout out for shared energy, friends coming together, instinct kicking in. All things Toofani!”

Sukesh Nayak, Chief Creative Officer, Ogilvy India, said, “Today’s youth aren't just spectators—they are the main event. They crave experiences that are fast, visceral, and unapologetically real. And they are not willing to push it or defer it to kal - tomorrow’, this experience is to be lived and lived together and lived now. This hunger for action is the pulse of the ‘Taste the Thunder’ anthem. ‘Aaj Kuch Toofani Karte Hain’ isn't just a tagline; it’s a rallying cry for shared adrenaline, instinctive moves, and the raw energy of friendship. It is the definition of Toofani”

Devraj Sanyal, Chairman & CEO, India and SVP Strategy, Africa, Middle East & Asia, Universal Music Group added, “Thums Up turning 49 isn’t nostalgia — it’s momentum. Bringing Hanumankind’s raw energy together with Vishal Dadlani’s iconic voice, produced by the legendary Sushin Shyam, and Hindi lyrics by the masterful Varun Grover, felt like culture colliding with conviction. What we’ve created isn’t just a new version of a jingle — it’s a statement. Shot with insane intent by the madly talented Bijoy Shetty, powered by Early Man Films. For me to create something so unapologetically powerful isn’t just a celebration — it’s thunder redefined. Proud doesn’t even begin to cover it.”

Vishal Dadlani said, “What made this collaboration fun was how different our musical worlds are. We didn’t try to tame those differences or force them into one neat sound. The whole point was to spark off each other and create something toofani. That’s where the real rush comes from, and that’s what gives the song its personality.”

Hanumankind said, “The song came to us easy. The version you are all hearing is very close to what came to us the first time we were in the studio. We got some good heads together for this one, and now we’re here.”

Bijoy Shetty said, “We looked at what has always defined the world of Thums Up: The need to step beyond to feel something. Everything you see in the film is meant to keep the energy rising with the music for the viewers.”

Marking the brand’s first major visual evolution in over two decades, Thums Up also recently introduced a refreshed visual identity and logo. Built to be sharper, more dynamic and future-ready, the refreshed visual world reflects the same confidence and intensity that have long been core to Thums Up’s identity, now expressed in a way that aligns with how today’s youth show up.

About Coca-Cola India:

Coca-Cola in India is one of the country’s leading beverage companies, offering a range of high-quality and refreshing beverage options to consumers. The company, in line with its vision of ‘Beverages For Life’ offers a wide portfolio of products which includes hydration, sports, sparkling, coffee, tea, nutrition, juice and dairy based products. In India its beverage range includes Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, Thums Up, Thums Up XForce, Charged, Fanta, Limca, Sprite, Sprite Zero, Kinley Soda, Rim Zim, Maaza, Minute Maid range of juices and Honest Tea. The Company also offers hydration beverages including Limca GlucoCharge, Smartwater, Kinley, Kinley Copper, Dasani and Bonaqua packaged drinking water. Premium products constitute Schweppes’ range and Smartwater. In addition, it offers a Costa Coffee range of tea and coffee. The Company is constantly transforming its portfolio, from reducing sugar in its drinks to bringing innovative new products to market.

The Company along with its owned bottling operations and franchise bottling partners has a strong network of over six million retail outlets through which it refreshes millions of consumers across the country. It seeks to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water and packaging initiatives, sustainable agriculture and emission reductions across its value chain.

Globally together with its bottling partners, The Coca-Cola Company employs more than 700,000 people, helping to bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.cocacolacompany.com and follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

Photo Caption: From left to right: Vishal Dadlani, Hanumankind, Varun Grover & Bijoy Shetty at the launch of Thums Up’s new anthem at Grand Hyatt Mumbai.

ITC WOW Honours ‘‘Green Champions” Of Waste Management In Bengaluru

· Annual award ceremony organised under ITC’s flagship solid waste management initiative – Wellbeing Out of Waste (ITC WOW)

· Winners of Interschool Recycling Championship 2025-26 were felicitated by ITC WOW

· Shri Karee Gowda, IAS, CEO, BSWML graces the occasion as Chief Guest

Reaffirming its long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship, resource conservation, and inclusive sustainability, ITC Limited organised the Samaagam – the ITC WOW Green Awards Event today at the B R Ambedkar Auditorium, Bengaluru. The ceremony recognised and celebrated outstanding contributions of key stakeholders across the waste management value chain- Students, Educational Institutions, Dry Waste Collectors, Resident Welfare Authorities (RWAs) and Corporates – for advancing the ‘Clean India Mission’, through effective waste segregation, recycling, and responsible waste management practices.

The award ceremony is a key milestone under ITC’s flagship Wellbeing Out of Waste (ITC WOW) solid waste management initiative, which focuses on driving behavioural change at scale by promoting source segregation, strengthening recycling ecosystems, and fostering community participation in sustainable waste management. The awards acknowledge individuals and institutions that have demonstrated leadership and commitment in translating awareness into measurable environmental impact.

The ceremony was graced by senior government and institutional leaders, including Shri Karee Gowda, IAS, CEO, BSWML as the Chief Guest, along with Guests of Honour Shri Shaik Tajuddin, Deputy Commissioner, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, Karnataka; Shri Atheeq Anwar, Chief Administrative Officer, DPS Bangalore, Mysore and School of India; and Shri S N Umakanth, DGM, PSPD, ITC Ltd.

Mr. Rajesh Ponnuru, Divisional Chief Executive, Paperboards & Specialty Papers Division, ITC Ltd. said, “ITC believes that community-led responsible waste management is a critical enabler of a sustainable and circular economy. Through its large-scale WOW - Wellbeing Out of Waste initiative, ITC has been working consistently to drive behavioural change, enable multi-stakeholder collaborations, strengthen recycling value chains, generate livelihood opportunities for waste collectors and create meaningful environmental and social impact. I extend my heartfelt compliments to the winners of the ITC WOW Green Awards in Bengaluru. The encouraging contribution of students, waste handlers and corporates towards the vision of a clean and green environment is indeed commendable. It is particularly heartening to see that our future generation is actively coming forward to manage and recycle waste and create widespread awareness on the subject.”

The Interschool Recycling Championship (ISRC), ITC WOW’s flagship engagement programme, continues to be a powerful platform for instilling the values of responsible waste management among future citizens. Implemented across major cities in southern India, the programme actively encourages students and educational institutions to participate in waste segregation and recycling initiatives, thereby nurturing a culture of environmental responsibility and sustainability from an early age.

The 2025–26 edition of the championship witnessed an overwhelming response, with over 1 lakh students actively participating and collectively contributing approximately 1000 metric tons of dry waste for recycling. The championship saw participation from 585 schools across Bengaluru, Mysuru City, Tumkur and Malur, while nearly 4 lakh students were engaged through awareness and outreach activities on waste segregation and responsible disposal practices. The programme brought together government and private schools across boards including ICSE, CBSE and SSC, reflecting its inclusive reach and grassroots impact.

ITC’s Wellbeing Out of Waste (ITC WOW) programme is a pioneering, collaborative model that has been transforming neighbourhoods into clean and healthy environments since its inception in 2007. One of India’s notable programmes on solid waste management, ITC WOW actively promotes source segregation, maximises resource recovery, and supports sustainable livelihoods for waste handlers, while building awareness across urban and semi-urban communities.

Modelled as a community-led initiative, ITC WOW has engaged 74 lakh households and 77 lakh students across six states till date benefitting over 17,900 waste collectors and ragpickers through livelihood support and formalisation. The programme has helped recovered 65,000 metric tons of dry recyclable waste annually, strengthening circular economy outcomes.

In Bengaluru, ITC WOW has covered over 21 lakh households across 175 wards, making the city one of the most impactful centres for the programme in southern India and significantly strengthening responsible waste management and community-led sustainability practices.

The initiative aligns closely with ITC’s Sustainability 2.0 agenda and its broader commitment to advancing a circular economy. As a global sustainability leader, ITC has achieved the distinction of being solid waste recycling positive for 18 consecutive years and has been plastic neutral since FY2022. Adopting a circular approach and continuously reducing its environmental footprint, ITC aims to ensure that 100 percent of its packaging is reusable, recyclable, or compostable/bio-degradable by 2028.

HELL ENERGY DRINK Welcomes Cricketer Mohammed Siraj To The India Team

HELL ENERGY DRINK continues to deepen its sports-led brand story in India with the addition of Indian fast-bowling star Mohammed Siraj to the HELL ENERGY DRINK team. Known for his relentless intensity and ability to deliver under pressure, Siraj’s association aligns seamlessly with the brand’s philosophy of raw energy, mental resilience, and high-performance mindset. The association is a natural extension of HELL ENERGY DRINK’s core positioning- mental toughness and performance under pressure.

Siraj’s on-field persona, defined by searing pace, visible aggression and unwavering focus, mirrors the brand’s global identity. His rise from humble beginnings to becoming one of India’s most dependable fast bowlers reflects a journey fuelled by resilience and grit, values that sit at the heart of HELL ENERGY DRINK’s philosophy.

The signing places Siraj within a deliberately constructed brand universe that also includes Indian batmanShreyas Iyer.

Together, this pair allows the brand to balance ambition, inspirational style and intensity helping it speak to multiple consumer cohorts while remaining anchored to a singular, high-energy narrative.

From a brand standpoint, the Siraj association is rooted in authenticity rather than star value alone. Known for wearing his emotions on his sleeve, Siraj is perceived as a self-made athlete who thrives in high-pressure situations making him a credible symbol for a brand that positions itself as fuel for those who push limits rather than play it safe. His connection with younger audiences, especially in emerging markets, adds further depth to the partnership.

As a face of the brand, Siraj will feature across HELL ENERGY DRINK’s integrated marketing ecosystem.

Speaking on the association, Unnikannan Gangadharan, Director, HELL ENERGY PRIVATE LIMITED, said the brand sees Siraj as an embodiment of its DNA, fearless, relentless and deeply connected with today’s youth through his journey and on-field intensity.

Sharing his thoughts on the partnership, Mohammed Siraj said, “I have always believed in giving my 100% on the field, no matter what the situation is. That mindset is what connects me strongly with HELL ENERGY DRINK. The brand stands for intensity, performance and pushing boundaries, values that I truly believe in. I am excited to be associated with a brand that celebrates consistency, persistence and giving your best every single time.”

As energy drink brands increasingly compete on credibility and storytelling, the Siraj HELL ENERGY DRINK partnership stands out as a strong brand fit rooted in shared values rather than superficial endorsement. The association reinforces HELL ENERGY DRINK’s ambition to cement its position as a preferred energy drink among India’s youth and sports enthusiasts, backed by international quality products and performance-driven narratives.

50 Years. One Nation. Countless MAGGI ‘Moments Of Togetherness’ – Now Officially Stamped

Nestlé India is thrilled to mark a special milestone with the launch of a commemorative postal stamp celebrating 50 years of MAGGI in India. The stamp was unveiled by Mr. Manish Tiwary, Chairman and Managing Director, Nestlé India, alongside Mr. Chirag Paswan, Minister of Food Processing Industries, Government of India. The stamp is a tribute to MAGGI’s evolution, staying ahead of the curve and becoming synonymous to a much-loved category – all while continuing to bring people together, one shared moment at a time, across generations.

Over the past five decades, MAGGI has found its way into Indian homes in many delicious forms – from noodles and masalas to sauces, soups and ready-to-cook favourites. From quick solo fixes to meals that bring the family together, and from hostel kitchens to big get-togethers, MAGGI has been part of countless food moments across the country. The “50 Years of Togetherness” stamp is a tribute to these shared experiences, capturing the warmth, comfort and connections that MAGGI continues to bring to tables across India.

Mr. Chirag Paswan, Minister of Food Processing Industries, Government of India said, “India's processed food sector has come a long way in earning the trust of households over decades. Pioneering brands have shaped new categories and strengthened our food ecosystem. I congratulate MAGGI on completing 50 years as part of this remarkable journey.”

Announcing the launch of the stamp, Mr. Manish Tiwary, Chairman and Managing Director, Nestlé India said, “It is a truly special milestone for MAGGI in India. Completing five decades in a country as vibrant and diverse as ours reflects the trust, affection and everyday love that millions have showered on the brand. It celebrates a journey shaped by shared moments, evolving tastes and a bond that has grown stronger – year after year, generation after generation.”

Nestlé India remains committed to strengthening this connection and to contributing to everyday moments that bring warmth, comfort and togetherness to people across the country.

Manjushree Technopack Unveils Its New Brand ‘Alternicq’

The brand transformation reflects the company’s strategic shift from quality and scale-led manufacturing to customer centric, innovation-led integrated packaging solutions while enabling circularity in plastic

Manjushree Technopack Ltd., India’s largest rigid plastic packaging company, announced that its Board has approved the change of the company’s name to ‘Alternicq Limited’, subject to certain other necessary approvals. The new brand has been carefully chosen to reflect the company’s strategic shift from quality and scale-led manufacturing to innovation-led, customer-centric, integrated packaging solutions while enabling circularity in plastic.

‘Alternicq’, representing alternative thinking, reflects the company’s sharpened focus on pioneering innovation and delivering high quality packaging solutions at scale, all while managing complexity for customers across the packaging value chain. The visual representation is of two rectangles coming together to form a diamond - a symbol of rarity, brilliance, strength and unique perfection. One rectangle represents Alternicq and the other, its customers, coming together to create path-breaking solutions.

Commenting on the rebranding, Mr. Thimmaiah Napanda, Managing Director and CEO, Manjushree Technopack said, “The evolution from Manjushree Technopack to Alternicq marks a defining moment in our 45 year old journey. What began as a company built on scale and manufacturing excellence has evolved into a strategic partner deeply embedded in our customers’ growth, innovation, and sustainability ambitions. Alternicq reflects who we are today, and the future we are building—one where integrated capabilities, agility, and collaboration help customers manage complexity and succeed in dynamic markets. The proposed change in the Company’s name is subject to receipt of necessary approvals.”

Mr. Thimmaiah Napanda added, “Demand for rigid plastic packaging in India is expected to grow significantly, driven by rising consumption across key sectors such as FMCG, pharma and healthcare, home and personal care, agrochemicals, dairy, food, paint and more. At the same time, India’s EPR guidelines are shaping infrastructure and demand for recycled plastics. With integrated design capabilities and 275,000 MTPA of pan-India manufacturing capacity, we are well positioned to be a one-stop rigid plastic packaging partner—delivering agile, innovative solutions at scale that meet global standards and enable circularity in plastic for customers and millions of consumers.”

Nikhil Srivastava, Chairman, Manjushree Technopack and Co-Head of Private Equity, PAG, said, “For more than four decades, Manjushree has proven that innovation and scale can advance hand in hand. ‘Alternicq’ marks the next chapter in that journey, a brand that reflects our evolution to meet the needs of customers navigating an increasingly dynamic and demanding world. With this transformation, we move beyond being a packaging manufacturer to become a strategic partner, one that simplifies complexity, delivers reliability at scale, and drives sustained growth through alternative, agile thinking. Rooted in Manjushree’s legacy, ‘Alternicq’ embodies progress shaped by experience, scale, and a sharp focus on what our customers need next.

Seven Inspiring Ideas For Valentine’s Day In Abu Dhabi

From cultural performances to desert adventures, Abu Dhabi offers a variety of experiences

Abu Dhabi is the perfect destination for a weekend trip, making it easy to shape a memorable and unique itinerary on and around Valentine’s Day. From live music and major concerts to nature, culture and fine dining, here are some reasons to plan a trip around 14 February in Abu Dhabi.

Enjoy a night of music with the UAE National Orchestra

If you want an evening that feels elevated from the moment you arrive, book the UAE National Orchestra’s performance of Russian Classics on 14 February, guaranteeing an evening filled with wonder and a chance to create cherished memories.

Book a dinner that feels like the main event

Dining in Abu Dhabi is an experience of its own, with cuisines from around the world and Michelin-starred restaurants. If you’re looking for inspiration, Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, the Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant at Emirates Palace, is marking the occasion with an exclusive ‘Valentine’s’ set menu, pairing signature dishes with an elegant setting for a memorable evening out.

Keep the celebrations going with Saadiyat Nights all week

Saadiyat Nights, Abu Dhabi’s flagship open-air concert, brings a stellar line-up of live performances. Concerts include Mariah Carey on 7 February, Bryan Adams on 11 February and John Mayer on 15 February, bringing global live music to Abu Dhabi.

Plan an outdoor adventure in the emirate

Kayak through the Eastern Mangroves for a calm, nature-led experience close to the city, or embark on a desert safari that combines dune bashing, sunset views and traditional dining under the stars. And for a truly unique evening, head to Al Quaa, where clear desert skies offer one of the most memorable stargazing experiences in Abu Dhabi.

Step inside an immersive art experience together

For an experience like no other, head to teamLab Phenomena and step inside a space where art moves with you. Offering a multi-sensory journey where art, science, and technology collide, this immersive art experience features ever-evolving exhibits that engage sight, sound, and touch, ensuring no two visits are the same. 

Visit an all-day sports festival on Hudayriyat Island

For those who enjoy an active, outdoor atmosphere, AccessPass Music and Sports Festival takes over 321 Sports on Hudayriyat Island on 14 February. With live music and sports experiences on the waterfront, it offers a vibrant alternative to a traditional Valentine’s plans.

Find calm with golden hour by the water

For a more relaxed activity, plan a quiet moment around sunset exploring Abu Dhabi’s waterfront promenades and beaches. A walk along the Corniche or a dip in the water on the picturesque beaches on Saadiyat Island makes for the perfect start to your evening.

Ready to plan your getaway? Plan your trip with: visitabudhabi.ae

RSPL Group’s Soda Ash Manufacturing Unit Doubles Its Production Capacity After Obtaining Environmental Clearance

SOKA’s Gujarat Plant Aims to Produce One Million Tons of Soda Ash, becoming one of the major contributors in the soda ash manufacturing industry

RSPL Group, India's leading FMCG conglomerate, has achieved another significant milestone in its industrial production and chemical manufacturing unit, SOKA. Amongst the leading producers of Soda Ash in India, SOKA has secured environmental clearance to double its soda ash manufacturing capacity, to 1 million tons per annum at its Gujarat coastal plant. This will effectively double the existing manufacturing capacity from 500,000 tons to 1,000,000 tons, alongside plans to produce sodium bicarbonate (SBC).

SOKA is already implementing an immediate plan to increase its soda ash manufacturing capacity to 7,50,000 tons per year over the next two years, adding 2,50,000 tons in its state-of-the-art inorganic chemical complex. According to estimates, SOKA aims to fully realize its vision of a one-million-ton production capacity in the near future.

The expansion is projected to create approx. 2000 new jobs in Gujarat’s coastal region, as per the MOU signed in 2023, augmenting the existing workforce. This will position SOKA as one of the country's major soda ash manufacturers. Furthermore, SOKA expects to significantly strengthen its presence in production of Soda ash for solar glass, which is used in solar panels. As part of key offerings, Soda Ash light is widely used in detergent manufacturing, and plays a critical role in water treatment, chemical manufacturing, and the pulp and paper industry. Soda Ash Dense, on the other hand, is typically used for glass manufacturing, essential for producing flat, float, and container glass. Additionally, it is utilized in chemical processing, metallurgy, and other industrial sectors like ceramics, dyes, and textiles.

Speaking about this milestone, Tinku Chhabra, CEO, SOKA, stated, “The environmental clearance to expand our soda ash manufacturing capacity is a significant step in advancing the ‘Make in India’ vision. Our plant plays a critical role in strengthening the domestic industrial ecosystem by supplying essential raw materials to key sectors such as detergents, glass, solar glass, textiles, and chemicals. As we scale up, we remain committed to adopting advanced technologies, and embedding sustainable practices across operations. At SOKA, our focus extends beyond manufacturing to supporting local economy, creating employment and long-term livelihoods, and driving responsible growth through strong CSR initiatives—reinforcing RSPL’s commitment to India’s journey towards self-reliance and sustainable industrial development.”

SOKA commissioned its soda ash manufacturing facility in 2019 in Gujarat’s Dwarka district and today exports globally, to nearly 50 countries across Central America, Africa, and the APAC region. The 500,000 MTPY greenfield plant, powered by NIOCHIM’s technology and engineered by Jacobs Engineering (WorleyParsons India), is supported by a captive co-generation power facility. By ensuring reliable domestic supply of soda ash, SOKA strengthens India’s solar glass and renewable energy ecosystem and supports the country’s clean energy ambitions, while driving employment, infrastructure development, and industrial growth in Gujarat.

About RSPL Group

RSPL Group is one of India’s leading and fastest-growing FMCG conglomerates, built on a legacy of trust, value, and consumer-centric innovation. Established in 1988 with the iconic Ghadi detergent, the Group today has a diversified portfolio spanning fabric care, home and personal care, dairy and packaged foods, lifestyle and footwear, agri-products, and renewable energy. With a strong presence across urban and rural India and an expanding international footprint in markets such as Bangladesh, Nepal, Ethiopia, and Dubai, RSPL continues to deliver high-quality and affordable products that enhance everyday life.

The Group employs over 25,000 people and remains committed to sustainable and responsible growth. Through its CSR initiatives led by Laxmi Devi Dayal Das Charitable Trust and RSPL Welfare Foundation, RSPL actively supports programmes in education, healthcare, environment, animal welfare and community development nationwide.

Products & Brand: Household Products: Ghadi Detergent Powder, Ghadi Detergent Cake, Ghadi Smartmatic Machine Wash, Xpert Dishwash Bar and Liquid, Personal Care Products: Glori Soap & Handwash and Venus Crème bar, Hygiene Care Products: Proease Sanitary Napkins, Luxury Baby Diaper - Lovingle, Life Style & Fashion: Red Chief & Red Chief Sports Shoes, Zuup by Red Chief, Dairy: Namaste India Foods (Dairy products, dairy beverages), Namaste India Ice Cream, Chemical Division: SOKA(soda ash), Agri products: Gangotri.