With more than 1 crore devotees converging on the confluence of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati here and take a holy dip in a mass manifestation of devotion, penance and asceticism to mark the beginning of Maha Kumbh — the world’s largest congregation of mankind -- business is booming at Prayagraj with brands ranging from FMCG to tech startups estimated to spend over Rs 3,600 crore on advertising and marketing around Maha Kumbh. Asmita Dey for The Times of India reported that FMCG firms like Dabur, Reliance Consumer Products, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola and ITC are betting big on Maha Kumbh to grab more eyeballs for their products amid a slowdown in broader industry sales. Some have installed big hoardings of their brands, and some have set up product booths with most ramping up production to ensure an adequate supply of products. Brands are estimated to spend about Rs 3,600 crore on advertising and marketing around Maha Kumbh, about 25 per cent of which will be allocated for outdoor adve

Clarity Communication has won PR mandates for KeenSemi, Bliss Body and Misfits Communications, marking a significant milestone for the growing agency, Influencing India has learned. The mandates span sectors including technology, wellness, and AI-driven innovation, reflecting the agency’s expanding expertise. Sowmya Iyer, Founder and CEO of Clarity Communication, shared her enthusiasm in a media release: “We are proud to partner with KeenSemi, Bliss Body, and Misfits Communications, three dynamic and innovative brands redefining their respective industries.” She added that the agency’s next step involves crafting compelling narratives and executing strategic campaigns to amplify the impact of these brands, whether it’s advancing semiconductor solutions, championing health and sustainability, or driving AI-powered transformation. With its roots in the semiconductor industry, Clarity Communication has steadily expanded into wellness and AI-driven solutions, establishing a

Monique Dews is returning to full-time radio as the Drive newsreader on Brisbane’s 4BC.  Sharing her excitement on LinkedIn, Dews expressed her enthusiasm for diving into local stories as part of the nine.com.au team. With 11 years at ARN, where she presented Breakfast news on KIIS 97.3 and managed five newsrooms nationwide, Dews brings a wealth of experience to her new role.  After a brief stint as Director of Accounts and Strategy at PR firm Adoni Media in 2023, she is now back on the airwaves. “It’s a privilege to join the 4BC team,” Dews said, as she prepares to reconnect with Brisbane listeners through her passion for storytelling and news.  

Prasar Bharati has announced the 7th annual online e-auction for allocating vacant MPEG-2 slots on the DD Free Dish DTH platform from April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2026. The process is set to begin on February 10, 2025 tentatively. According to an official notice, The e-auction will follow the 2025 methodology for allotting DD Free Dish slots exclusively to private satellite TV channels licensed by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B). “Only Satellite channels permitted and licensed by the Ministry of I&B would be allowed to participate in the e-auction. Only companies holding valid permission from the Ministry of I&B can apply for participation in the e-auction for the allocation of the DD Free Dish slot,” the notice stated. TV channels have been categorised into buckets based on their genre and language for the allotment period. Hindi and Urdu general entertainment channels fall under Bucket A+, while movie channels in the same languages are in Bucket

The Hit Network has launched a new national Nights show, The Hot Hits with Nic & Loren, hosted by Nic Kelly and Loren Barry. The program premiered on Monday, January 13, at 7 pm., offering the latest music, special guests, and music news. Nic Kelly, who previously helmed The Hot Hits weekends, will take over the nightly slot alongside Loren Barry, renowned for her work on The Marty Sheargold Show on the Triple M Network.  Kelly expressed his excitement about the role, sharing, “Nights radio has been a dream of mine since I was a teenager. I’m thrilled to do it with Loren, whose passion and wit will make our show iconic.” Barry echoed the enthusiasm, calling the opportunity a "dream come true." Dave Cameron, SCA’s chief content officer, praised the duo’s synergy, highlighting Kelly’s deep music knowledge and Barry’s infectious energy as key to the show’s appeal. The Hot Hits with Nic & Loren airs Monday through Thursday from 7 to 10 pm and Saturdays from 3

Mediaweek has welcomed Natasha Lee to its team as a journalist, bringing with her over 20 years of experience across print, radio, digital and television.  Lee began her career at just 16 as an editorial assistant for The Daily Telegraph, quickly rising through the ranks and completing her cadetship at 2SM. Francis Sheen, Mediaweek’s head of content, said, “Her experience and passion will be key as we move into 2025.” Editor Emma Shepherd echoed this sentiment, highlighting Lee’s versatility and dedication to delivering fresh insights. Reflecting on her new role, Lee said, “I’m thrilled to join Mediaweek and look forward to providing in-depth perspectives on Australia’s media landscape and the people who shape it.” Lee’s extensive background, including her role as a newsreader for Sydney’s GOLD 101.7, positions her as a strong addition to Mediaweek as it continues to expand its coverage of the media industry.  

The debate on how long should Indians be working continues to rage with Larsen & Toubro chairman S N Subrahmanyan evoking online outrage with his comments advocating a 90-hour week and exhorting employees to report to work on Sundays as well. It all began when Infosys co-founder N R Narayana Murthy backed a 70-hour work week a few months ago. In his comment, the L&T chief is heard saying, "How long can you stare at your wife?” in a purported video address to employees where he urged them to spend less time at home and more in the office. Rupali Mukherjee for The Times of India reported that in responding to a query, the L&T chief was heard saying: “I regret I am not able to make you work on Sundays. If I can make you work on Sundays, I will be happier because I work on Sundays also”. The company also defended its chairman’s views. “At L&T, nation-building is at the core of our mandate. For over eight decades, we have been shaping India’s infrastructu