Funskool's Homegrown Brands Launch “New Range of Exciting Toys And Games”

* Aimed at stimulating the senses and developing cognitive and motor skills, these products make learning possible – the fun way

Funskool India, India's leading toy manufacturer, has launched a special range of 18 unique toys and games aimed at entertaining and educating children this season. The range caters to toddlers and children up to 14 years.  The newly launched products span across several categories, including Giggles, Games, Fundough, Handycraft and Play & Learn.

Commenting on the new products, R. Jeswant, CEO of Funskool India Ltd, said, “Funskool is known for prioritising holistic development of children while developing any new product. These 18 products are no different. Our in-house design team has ensured that children experience fun and also learn while playing with our products. We work hard to bring out unique products which are in line with the expectations of the new generation and the parents, as well.” 

Water play table, Bear Melody Crib mobile, sensory Rattle trio, dazzling duck family and rattle strider have been introduced in the Giggles category while Puzzle pads, 5-letter Wordlet, Ultimate Pub Trivia and Travel Games have been launched in the Games category. Lil’ Road Explorer and  Fundough Doughasaurus have hit the stands under the Fundough category,  while Warli Art and Twilight Treasure have been launched in the Handycraft category.  Peg Pixels Vehicles, Peg Pixels Unicorn, Flamingo Sunset 1000 pcs puzzle, Bright Sunset 300 pcs puzzle and Lets Learn International Personalities have been launched under the label Play & Learn is sure to interest the children.

The products are priced between Rs 299 and Rs 2499. These unique toys and games are available at major toy retailers and can also be purchased through e-commerce sites.

Bank of Baroda Onboards “Rising Indian Tennis Sensation- Sumit Nagal As Its Brand Endorser”

* In line with the Bank’s ethos to extend early support to Indian athletes helping them unlock their full potential

* A role model for today’s youth, Sumit will help the Bank connect with GenNext

Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks announced that the Bank has signed rising Indian tennis player Mr. Sumit Nagal as its brand endorser. The move is in alignment with the Bank’s long-standing philosophy to support emerging talented and ambitious Indian sportspersons as they endeavour to compete with the best on the world stage.

Aged 26 years, Sumit Nagal will be strategically positioned by the Bank to target a younger demographic and a new generation of customers with a range of products specifically designed for this segment.

The highest-ranked Indian singles tennis player currently, Sumit has jumped to a career-high singles ranking of World No. 71 on 17th June 2024, while securing a place in the Indian contingent for the Paris Olympics in the process. In January 2024, Sumit became the first Indian player in 35 years to defeat a seeded player in a Grand Slam men’s singles match at the Australian Open 2024.

Sumit joins a stellar line-up of Bank of Baroda endorsers that includes badminton star PV Sindhu and cricketing youth icon Shafali Verma.

Commenting on the association, Shri Debadatta Chand, Managing Director & CEO, Bank of Baroda said, “Bank of Baroda has a rich legacy of partnering with and extending its support to some of India’s most promising sporting talent early on in their careers.  We are delighted to welcome Sumit Nagal to the Bank of Baroda family. Tennis is a global, highly competitive and demanding sport and this makes Sumit’s journey and what he’s aspiring to achieve all the more inspiring and extraordinary. The collaboration between Bank of Baroda and Sumit will also go a long way in promoting the sport in India and helping the Bank reach out to a younger audience.”

“Sumit’s commitment, perseverance, passion and authenticity are just some of the attributes that define him; values that Bank of Baroda holds dear as well. 2024 is already proving to be a breakthrough year for Sumit and over 80,000 Barodians are cheering for him as he strives to achieve his dreams and make the country proud,” added Shri Chand.

Sumit Nagal said, “I am honoured and privileged to be associated with Bank of Baroda and would like to thank them for putting their confidence in me. Bank of Baroda is a leading, trusted Indian financial services institution that empowers the dreams and ambitions of millions and I eagerly look forward to this association.”

Born on 16th August 1997, Sumit started playing tennis at the age of 8. He won the 2015 Wimbledon boys doubles title. Sumit is the first Indian to reach a Grand Slam singles main draw in 3 years at the Australian Open 2024 and the first Indian ever to win 2 ATP Challenger singles titles in Europe. Recently, in April 2024, Sumit became the first Indian player in 49 years to qualify for the main draw of the Monte Carlo Masters tournament and the first Indian men’s player ever to win a Masters 1000 match on clay, defeating Matteo Arnaldi in the round of 64.

Bounteous x Accolite Revamps Kannagi Nagar School Infrastructure, Empowering Over 1500 Students

* Aims to empower students with essential skills and reduce dropout rates, enabling them to become first generation graduates.

* Dr. V. Irai Anbu inaugurated the revamped school and motivated the students

Bounteous x Accolite, a global leader in IT services, has undertaken a significant initiative to revitalize the Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS) in Kannagi Nagar, Chennai. The company has partnered with the NGO Ladies Circle India Trust to upgrade the school’s infrastructure. Dr. V. Irai Anbu, former Tamil Nadu Chief Secretary inaugurated the revamped school that caters to 1500 students from grades 6 to 12. He motivated the students and emphasized the importance of education.

Kannagi Nagar, one of India’s largest resettlement sites, houses over 80,000 people, many displaced from their original homes by the tragic 2004 tsunami. According to a  study, only 10% of children in Kannagi Nagar had access to educational facilities. With only 2,000 school seats available for 20,000 school-going children, the area faces a 35% dropout rate among 15–18-year-olds, and 42% of students commute over 20 km to other schools. Established in 2004, GHSS has been struggling with inadequate infrastructure for years.

Before this intervention, GHSS Kannagi Nagar faced numerous challenges, including overcrowded classrooms, insufficient furniture, poor electrical fixtures and safety issues due to a lack of proper infrastructure. Recognizing these pressing needs, Bounteous x Accolite collaborated with Ladies Circle India Trust to execute a comprehensive renovation project aimed at transforming the school environment.

Key improvements included repairing roofs and floors to enhance safety, installing new benches, desks, and green boards to create more conducive learning environments, electrical upgrades and erecting a secure compound wall with a gate to bolster safety measures. Additionally, Bounteous x Accolite facilitated the setup of a modern computer lab equipped with 12 laptops and 26 desktops to boost digital literacy among students and prepare them for future academic and career pursuits.

The upgrades have had a profound impact, as evidenced by the positive feedback from students and educators. J. Jayshri, a class IX student, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "When I joined the school, the infrastructure was in a very bad state. When it rained, the water seeped through the roof, and when it was hot, it was unbearable to sit inside with no fans. Now, the new benches, freshly painted classrooms, and pleasant atmosphere make me excited to come to school every day”.

Mrs. Andeshwari, the school's Head Mistress, highlighted the transformative impact of the initiative, stating, "The renovation has brought a renewed sense of pride and motivation among both students and teachers. The improvements have made the school safer, more functional, and instilled a sense of discipline and belonging in our students."

“This initiative at GHSS Kannagi Nagar underscores the potential for corporate partnerships to drive meaningful change in educational institutions, setting a positive example for community involvement and social responsibility,” said Leela Kaza, Founder and Co-CEO of Bounteous x Accolite. We aim to create an environment that encourages students to enroll in the school and reach their full potential by cultivating essential skills required to become first-time graduates. We are proud to partner with Ladies Circle India Trust in this endeavor and look forward to seeing the students thrive”.  

Looking ahead, Bounteous x Accolite plans to continue supporting GHSS Kannagi Nagar with initiatives focused on holistic student development, including skill-building programs to prepare students for future academic and career opportunities.

About Bounteous x Accolite:

Bounteous x Accolite makes the future faster for the world’s most ambitious brands. Our services span Strategy, Analytics, Digital Engineering, Cloud, Data & AI, Experience Design, and Marketing. We are guided by Co-Innovation, our proven methodology of collaborative partnership. Bounteous x Accolite brings together 5,000+ employees spanning North America, APAC, and EMEA, and partnerships with leading technology providers. Through advanced digital engineering, technology solutions, and data-driven digital experiences, we create exceptional and efficient business impact and help our clients win.

About Ladies Circle India Trust:

Ladies Circle India, known as LC India, is a non-political and non-sectarian organization. It offers opportunities for serving the community, fostering and strengthening friendships between like-minded young women, and creating a better understanding of the obligations one owes to society. Today, Ladies Circle India comprises over 1800 members with 133 active Circles spread across India, with a presence in 19 states and 57 cities.

Pre-Launch Bookings For The All-New BMW 5 Series Long Wheelbase

Eighth generation of the BMW 5 Series will be available in India as a Long Wheelbase.

Available for pre-booking at all BMW India dealerships and at BMW Online shop from 12:00 Hrs, 22 June 2024.

Launch of the all-new BMW 5 Series Long Wheelbase is scheduled for 24 July 2024.

#The5LWB #BMWIndia

BMW India will open bookings for the all-new BMW 5 Series Long Wheelbase from 12:00 Hrs, 22 June 2024 onwards. The car will be locally produced at BMW Group Plant Chennai and can be pre-booked at the BMW dealership network and through BMW Online shop.

The all-new BMW 5 Series Long Wheelbase will be launched in India on 24 July 2024.

The all-new BMW 5 Series Long Wheelbase represents outstanding technological expertise and a progressive attitude. Sporty elegance, groundbreaking technology and luxurious space at the rear are all combined in the all-new BMW 5 Series Long Wheelbase. Adapted in numerous details to the specific requirements of Indian target groups, this all-new business sedan features an extended wheelbase and distinctive proportions. This results in a particularly generous space and comfort in the rear, which is further enhanced by exclusive equipment features.

Customers can visit https://www.bmw.in and explore a 360° view of the car’s exterior and interior. They will be directed to a bookings page where booking can be done through a secure online payment mechanism. Thanks to BMW Financial Services India, customers will also enjoy the flexibility to avail BMW 360 Finance plan in the booking phase itself.

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Now Available in Refreshing Titanium Yellow Colour

Samsung, India’s largest consumer electronics brand, today announced the introduction of a refreshing new Titanium Yellow colour to Galaxy S24 Ultra, which will go on sale in India starting today. Galaxy S24 Ultra is currently available in Titanium Gray, Titanium Violet and Titanium Black. The addition of the new Titanium Yellow colour will give more choices to consumers looking to purchase Galaxy S24 Ultra.

The ‘Made in India’ Galaxy S24 Ultra powered by Galaxy AI, enhances and redefines the phone’s most fundamental role – communication – with powerful features such as Live Translate, Interpreter, Chat Assist, Note Assist and Transcript Assist features.

Galaxy S24 Ultra marks a milestone in the history of search as the first phone to debut intuitive, gesture-driven Circle to Search with Google. Users can circle, highlight, scribble on, or tap anything on Galaxy S24 Ultra’s screen to see helpful, high-quality search results with just a fraction of the effort taken in a traditional search.

Galaxy S24 Ultra’s ProVisual Engine is a comprehensive suite of AI-powered tools that transform image capturing abilities and maximize creative freedom. The Quad Tele System on Galaxy S24 Ultra now comes with a new 5x optical zoom lens that works with the 50MP sensor to enable optical-quality performance at zoom levels from 2x, 3x, 5x to 10x, enabling users to take professional-grade photographs. Images also show crystal clear results at 100x with enhanced digital zoom.

Nightography capabilities have also been upgraded on Galaxy S24 Ultra thanks to its 1.4 ?m pixel size which is 60% bigger. Wider optical image stabilizer (OIS) angles and enhanced hand-shake compensation help reduce blur. Both front and rear cameras are equipped with Dedicated ISP Block for noise reduction. All these features make Galaxy S24 Ultra the perfect device at capturing special moments.

Performance and durability are core foundations of Galaxy S24 Ultra. Galaxy S24 Ultra is equipped with Snapdragon® 8 Gen 3 Mobile Platform for Galaxy that delivers remarkable NPU improvement for incredibly efficient AI processing. Galaxy S24 Ultra comes equipped with 1.9 times larger vapor chamber, improving device surface temperature while also maximizing sustained performance power. Ray tracing enables life-like visuals with superior shadow and reflection effect. Galaxy S24 Ultra reaches 2600 nit peak brightness, making it the brightest Galaxy smartphone ever. Corning® Gorilla® Armor on the Galaxy S24 Ultra is optically enhanced for superior durability.

Galaxy S24 Ultra is secured by Samsung Knox for safeguarding critical information and protection against vulnerabilities with end-to-end secure hardware, real-time threat detection and collaborative protection.

Galaxy S24 Ultra continues Samsung’s commitment to extending the product lifecycle, offering seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates to help users reliably experience the optimized performance of their Galaxy devices for even longer.

Price and Availability

Galaxy S24 Ultra Titanium Yellow will be available across all leading online and offline retail stores.

Manipal Academy of Higher Education Celebrates International Day of Yoga 2024

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) celebrated the International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2024, with the theme "Yoga for Self and Society." The event was coordinated by the Division of Yoga, Centre for Integrative Medicine & Research (CIMR), and witnessed the participation of 350 students, staff, faculty, and local community members.

The celebration began with a yoga practice session at the Indoor Futsal Court, Marena Sports Complex, Manipal, at 8:00 AM. The session was led by Dr. Annapoorna K., Head of the Division of Yoga, CIMR. Participants engaged in a range of yogic practices following the UGC protocol, including various asanas, pranayama, and relaxation techniques.

Following the yoga practice, a stage programme commenced at 9:00 AM at the same venue. The event was hosted by Dr. Lavya Shetty, Assistant Professor, and Dr. Divya Poojary, PG Student. Distinguished guests included Dr. HS Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE; Dr. Sharath Kumar Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor, Faculty of Health Sciences; Shri T. Satish U. Pai, Executive Chairman, Manipal Media Network Ltd and Vice President, Academy of General Education; Dr. P. Giridhar Kini, Registrar, MAHE; Mrs. Indira Ballal, Philanthropist; and Dr. Satish Rao, Director Research, MAHE & Director, Manipal School of Life Sciences.

The programme began with an invocation by Dr. Athmika Shetty, followed by a welcome address from Dr. B.S. Satish Rao. Dr. Annapoorna K. provided an overview of the activities and competitions held over the past three months, emphasizing the importance of yoga for holistic health and well-being. Dr. Sharath Kumar Rao highlighted the significance of the International Day of Yoga, urging daily yoga practice. Certificates and prizes for various yoga competitions were distributed by Dr. P. Giridhar Kini. The event included the felicitation of notable individuals by Mrs. Indira Ballal.

Dr. HS Ballal delivered the presidential address, underscoring the benefits of asanas and pranayama. The event concluded with a yoga demonstration by M.Sc. Yoga Therapy students. The celebration was organized under the leadership of Dr. B.S. Satish Rao and Dr. Annapoorna K., with contributions from the teaching and non-teaching staff of the Division of Yoga, CIMR, and M.Sc. Yoga Therapy students. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Neetinakumar J Patil, Associate Professor, Division of Yoga, CIMR, MAHE.

Weber Shandwick Launches ‘Elections Matter: India Report’

* Stark gender and generational differences in news consumption and election sentiments

Weber Shandwick India, today launched the “Elections Matter: India Report”. The survey led by the Corporate Advisory and Public Affairs practice, examined election sentiments around news consumption habits, trust in different information sources and voting behaviours and motivations among Gen Z (18-24 years) and Millennial (25-44) consumers in India.

Key findings

Media consumption behaviour w.r.t. current events, news & politics

Generational differences in news consumption: Stark contrast exists in news engagement between Millennials and Gen Zs. Over 55% of Millennials followed news daily, compared to about 36% of Gen Z with males significantly more inclined to current events, news & politics. While TV is among the top 3 news sources, there was a significantly lower preference among Gen Zs (44%) compared to Millennials (60%).

Reaffirmation of digital consumption surge: YouTube is the leading platform for consumption of current events, news and politics, in keeping with the digital media uptake. It was the dominant information source across all demographics, particularly driven by Delhi, while TV channels were on top in Chennai and Bangalore. It was followed closely by Instagram, TV, and WhatsApp.

Most watched is necessarily not the most trusted: Google search, print media, and digital news media had a higher trust quotient compared to most social media platforms.

Traditional media resonating stronger for Millennials: Print media continued to have higher acceptance among Millennials. 45% Millennials consumed print media for news and politics compared to only 31% Gen Zs. This preference pattern was evident even in the consumption pattern for television. South India especially Chennai and Bangalore had a stronger leaning to television than the rest of India. Also, 42% males favoured print versus 33% of women. Print media was also high on trust compared to most social media platforms.

Concerns about misinformation: After fake news websites, social media influencers topped the list for spreading misinformation. Males in particular were especially distrustful of them.

Sentiments towards elections & voting

Motivated Millennials and less enthusiastic Gen Zs: Millennials were significantly motivated by elections and voting due to a strong sense of civic duty and the desire for educational reform. Chennai and Hyderabad had a higher sentiment comparatively towards elections.

In contrast, Gen Z showed less enthusiasm, hinting at a potential apathy in political engagement.

Priority issues for elections and new government expectations: Civic and social factors such as infrastructure development, outweighed economic concerns and party manifesto promises as primary voting motivations across gender and generational cohorts. The state of the economy and education were the most pressing issues both for the current elections and future government focus, reflecting widespread concerns about socio-economic and educational development. This shift suggested a future-oriented approach to polling, with voters seeking macro-level changes for a better future.

Regional differences in voting motivations: Voters in Delhi focused on infrastructure development, while those in southern regions, such as Chennai and Bangalore, prioritized voting for candidates who promised to bring about change and impactful leadership.

Gender-specific concerns towards elections: While economy, education and public safety were perceived to be among the top priorities for the recent elections, women were particularly interested in women empowerment issues, highlighting the importance of gender-specific policy agendas. Also, over 55% would like the new government to focus on economy, education and healthcare agendas.

Commenting on the consumer survey findings, Rohan Kanchan, MD – Consulting and Head of Public Affairs, Weber Shandwick India, said, “This report underscores the dynamic nature of news consumption and electoral engagement in today’s digital age. Even as broader generational trends are known, nuances within the cohorts reveal a break from the pattern. For instance, the connection of Influencers in consumer motivations vis-a-vis trust in perception, might have implications in analyzing corporate reputation and development of future strategies. Our national commonalities peppered with our regional disparities, continue to provide an interesting lens to any consumer study such as Elections Matter.”

The survey was conducted by YouGov among 1,000 respondents from the top 10 cities in India, including Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, Lucknow, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. The demographics of the survey were balanced, with a near-equal split between males (51%) and females (49%), and evenly distributed between Gen Zs and Millennials.

About Weber Shandwick:

Weber Shandwick is the earned-first global communications agency. Led by world-class strategic and creative thinkers and activators, Weber Shandwick has won some of the most prestigious awards in the industry, including being named #1 in the Public Relations and Brand Strategies category on Fast Company’s 2024 Most Innovative Companies list, PRWeek’s 2024 Global Agency of the Year, one of Fast Company’s Best Workplace for Innovators in 2023, PRovoke’s Global Agency of the Year in 2023 and being the most awarded PR agency at the 2023 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. Weber Shandwick has been honored on Ad Age’s?A-List in 2024 and 2020 and Best Places to Work in 2019, in addition to being awarded PR Agency of the Year by?Campaign US?in 2021, honored as?PRovoke’s?Global Agency of the Decade in 2020 and ranking #1 on PRovoke’s Global Creative Index in 2021 and 2022. Additionally, the firm was named PRWeek’s?Global Agency of the Year in 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018 and was awarded PRWeek’s Purpose Agency of the Year in 2020 and 2021. Weber Shandwick also received?Honorable Mention (and the only PR agency) on the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Global Marketing Agencies in 2021.?Part of the Interpublic Group (NYSE: IPG), Weber Shandwick is the anchor agency within The Weber Shandwick Collective (TWSC) –?the strategic communications and consulting network. Cumulatively, TWSC has earned more than?190?Cannes Lions. For more information, visit?https://www.webershandwick.com/.