Helios Luxe Ropes in John Abraham for New Luxury Watch Campaign

Zomato has rolled out its digital-first Diwali campaign, ‘Have a WOW Diwali’, featuring actor Saif Ali Khan. The campaign highlights food hampers as a festive gifting option, with a film developed by the company's in-house team.

The campaign film draws a contrast between conventional Diwali gifts, including towels, bedsheets, soaps and crockery, and hampers filled with food. In the film, Khan responds with a restrained ‘WOW’ while receiving a series of familiar festive presents. His reaction changes when a Zomato delivery partner arrives with a Diwali hamper.

Sahibjeet Singh Sawhney, Marketing Head, Zomato said, "Nothing beats a hamper from a mithai shop, bakery, or restaurant for Diwali. This festive season, we’re super stoked to be collaborating with the incorrigible Saif Ali Khan to bring that truth home – in a way that only Saif can."

Alongside the campaign film, Zomato is promoting its Diwali hampers through influencer collaborations. Content creators are showcasing the food-focused gifting options as part of the company's festive marketing campaign.

Under the initiative, Zomato customers can select curated Diwali hampers from participating restaurant partners. The available options include mithai, assorted treats, desserts, and chocolates, offering customers a range of food-based gifting choices for the festive season.

The campaign film is available on Zomato's official Instagram and YouTube pages.

Swiss luxury watchmaker Blancpain has introduced two new watch collections, Lady B and the latest Villeret models, expanding its mechanical watch portfolio. The launch includes Lady B, a spherical timepiece marking the 70th anniversary of the brand's Ladybird collection, alongside new Villeret models featuring updated case sizes and designs.

Founded in 1735 in the Swiss village of Villeret, Blancpain has maintained its focus on mechanical watchmaking and has never produced a quartz watch. The latest additions reflect the brand's continued emphasis on traditional watchmaking, combining its heritage with contemporary designs.

The Ladybird collection was developed under the leadership of Betty Fiechter, who became the first woman to lead a Swiss watchmaking house. She joined Blancpain as an apprentice at the age of 16 and later became the first woman to own and lead a Swiss watch manufacturer. Alongside her nephew Jean-Jacques Fiechter, she helped establish two of the brand's significant collections: the Fifty Fathoms in 1953 and the Ladybird in 1956.

Marking seven decades of the Ladybird collection, Blancpain has introduced Lady B, a compact mechanical watch inspired by the rounded designs of the 1950s. Measuring 19 mm in diameter, the spherical watch features a polished case designed to sit in the palm of the hand. Its construction omits conventional lugs and visible strap attachments, with a double-tour leather strap passing directly through the case and wrapping around the wrist. The model is available in stainless steel and 18-carat red gold.

The launch also includes new additions to the Villeret collection, which traces its roots to 1983. That year, Blancpain introduced a 34 mm complete calendar moon-phase watch at a time when quartz technology was gaining ground across the watch industry.

The latest Villeret Ultraplate is now available in a 38 mm case alongside the existing 40 mm version. Customers can choose between stainless steel and 18-carat red gold models. The collection also includes the Villeret Phases de Lune in a 29.2 mm case, featuring a gold moon against a blue ceramic background and a diamond-set bezel.

Marc A. Hayek, President and CEO, Blancpain said, “The Villeret has always expressed its character through restraint rather than display.”

Arun Bhutani, Blancpain Brand Manager for India, was present at the launch event, highlighting the brand's focus on the Indian market and its community of luxury watch collectors.

The introduction of Lady B and the new Villeret models adds to Blancpain's presence in India, where the brand operates through selective distribution. The new watches cater to different consumer preferences, from the jewellery-inspired design of Lady B to the understated styling of the Villeret collection.

Mars has introduced its Celebrations chocolate gifting range in India, bringing together miniature versions of Snickers, Galaxy, Bounty and Twix in assorted gift packs. The launch expands the company's presence in the country's chocolate gifting segment ahead of the Diwali festive season.

First introduced globally in 1997, Celebrations is entering the Indian market with two gift-pack formats. While the initial rollout coincides with Diwali, the range is also positioned for other gifting occasions, including Christmas, Raksha Bandhan and Valentine's Day.

The Celebrations Flip Box is priced at Rs 270 and contains 12 treats weighing a total of 130 grams. The Celebrations Flat Box, priced at Rs 500, includes 20 treats weighing 225 grams.

Arijit Sengupta, Growth Director, Mars Snacking said, "Diwali is a festival that brings people together and celebrates the joy of sharing meaningful moments with loved ones. While traditional gifting has always been an integral part of the season, consumers today are increasingly looking for gifts that are both thoughtful and universally loved. With Celebrations, Mars is bringing together four of the world's most-loved chocolate brands, Snickers, Galaxy, Bounty, and Twix, in one beautifully curated gift pack designed to elevate festive gifting. The idea is simple: gift your favourites, their favourites. While Diwali marks the beginning of this journey, Celebrations is designed for every occasion worth celebrating, from Rakhi and Christmas to Valentine's Day and countless everyday moments of connection."

The two gift-pack formats will be available through quick-commerce platforms such as Blinkit, Zepto, Instamart and BigBasket. The company will also distribute the products through select modern trade retailers, including Lulu, Nesto, SPAR and Spencer's.

With the introduction of Celebrations, Mars is expanding its offerings in India's assorted chocolate gifting category, bringing multiple brands under one product range. The move adds a dedicated gifting format to its existing portfolio of individual chocolate brands and broadens its presence across festive and everyday gifting occasions.

Zed Black Agarbatti, the prayer essentials and fragrance brand owned by Mysore Deep Perfumery House (MDPH), has unveiled a new festive television commercial under its ‘Prarthna Hogi Sweekar’ campaign, marking the 10th year of its association with cricketer MS Dhoni. Centred on the theme ‘Ek Naye Kal Ki Umeed’, the campaign highlights the hopes and aspirations that people express through prayer.

The television commercial portrays people praying for different aspects of life, including the country's development, peace and happiness within families, better health, prosperity and a brighter future for their loved ones. Despite the differences in their prayers, the film brings these aspirations together through a shared desire for a better tomorrow.

MS Dhoni appears in the commercial praying alongside the people featured in the film. The advertisement concludes with Zed Black 3-in-1 Premium Agarbatti and the campaign message ‘Prarthna Hogi Sweekar’.

The campaign marks a decade of Zed Black's association with Mahendra Singh Dhoni, a partnership that the company says has contributed to its consumer connect across generations and regions. Over the years, the brand's television commercials have featured Dhoni in different avatars, including a retro Indian cricket jersey look and a Guruji character.

The latest campaign continues the association while reflecting the brand's positioning in the prayer essentials and fragrance categories. It also forms part of the company's efforts to strengthen its presence as a national consumer brand with an expanding fragrance portfolio.

Ankit Agrawal, Director, Mysore Deep Perfumery House said, “Prayer is deeply personal, but the hope behind it is universal. Through ‘Ek Naye Kal Ki Umeed’, we wanted to capture the different things people pray for, from the progress of the country to peace and happiness within their families, while bringing them together through one shared emotion, i.e hope for a better tomorrow. MS Dhoni’s presence makes this thought even more relatable, allowing us to tell a simple story that can resonate with households across India.”

Anshul Agrawal, Director, Mysore Deep Perfumery House shared, “The festive season is an important period for the prayer and fragrance category, with consumers increasingly looking for differentiated products and richer experiences around their rituals. This year, we have built our festive strategy around ‘Prarthna Hogi Sweekar’, supported by a wider portfolio and a strong media play. The decade-long association with MS Dhoni brings familiarity and emotional connect with the consumer base. “

Anand Oberoi, Managing Director, Oberoi IBC stated, “For over a decade, we have had the privilege of shaping Zed Black’s journey with MS Dhoni, and ‘Prarthna Hogi Sweekar’ has remained a powerful thought at the heart of the association. This campaign takes that belief a step further by bringing alive the many prayers people make for a better tomorrow. Different prayers, different hopes, but one shared belief that every heartfelt prayer will be heard. That is the emotion we wanted Dhoni to bring alive on screen.”

Conceptualised by Oberoi IBC, the television commercial is the central element of Zed Black Agarbatti's festive marketing campaign. The MS Dhoni-led advertisement will be supported by a 360-degree media rollout spanning television, over-the-top (OTT) platforms, print and YouTube, extending the campaign's reach across traditional and digital channels.

Nike is set to introduce Vegam Run, its first running shoe designed specifically for India, on November 1. Priced at Rs 3,795, the footwear is developed for running and everyday movement, targeting consumers looking for comfort and versatility in their daily activities.

The company developed Vegam Run based on insights gathered from runners across India, including their running habits, training routines, and daily movement. The shoe combines cushioning, breathability, and durability, with Nike positioning it as an accessible option for consumers entering the running segment as well as those seeking footwear for regular use.

Vegam Run features an engineered mesh upper, Full-Length Foam cushioning and a textured rubber outsole. The design also incorporates perimeter rubber to improve durability and pull tabs to make the shoe easier to wear.

Deepa Ramprasad, Senior Director of Nike Road Running Footwear said, “Our ambition with the Vegam Run was simple: honor the voice of the runner in India and build what they need. The result is a shoe that brings Nike Running, cushioning, comfort, and versatility to more athletes while reflecting our long-term commitment to growing sport in India.”

The footwear will be available in colourways inspired by India. One of the designs, the After Dark Tour colourway, is associated with the Mumbai stop scheduled for December.

Tarundeep Singh, General Manager, Nike India shared, “There’s an incredible energy around running in India today, with a new generation embracing movement in ways that are deeply personal, expressive and community-driven. Vegam Run is an invitation to running for more athletes in India and around the world. This new innovation represents our commitment to serving a broader spectrum of athletes, from those taking their first steps into sport to lifelong runners."

According to Nike, the development process moved from the initial design brief to a confirmed product in 55 days, with the entire journey from concept to launch taking approximately five months. The company's product, marketplace, and manufacturing teams collaborated to bring the shoe to market.

Vegam Run will be available in India from November 1 through Flipkart and select retail outlets.

Contemporary fine jewellery brand UNTAME has made its debut in India, introducing a portfolio of more than 1,000 designs that combine traditional jewellery-making expertise with contemporary aesthetics. Led by Simoni and Sayam Shah, the brand focuses on versatile diamond jewellery designed for everyday wear and individual expression.

Built on more than five decades of jewellery expertise, UNTAME aims to address changing consumer preferences, as fine jewellery increasingly becomes part of everyday dressing rather than being reserved for weddings, festivals and other special occasions.

The brand's collection includes delicate necklaces, understated earrings and minimalist designs that can be layered and styled with different outfits. Its offerings span chains, signets, tennis bracelets and necklaces designed for stacking and layering, bringing together versatility and contemporary design.

UNTAME combines traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing techniques, including 3D printing, laser work, stamping and channel-setting, alongside hand-finishing. The approach brings established jewellery-making knowledge together with technology to develop designs for consumers seeking contemporary fine jewellery.

With more than 1,000 designs, the brand offers both everyday essentials and statement pieces. It also provides customised jewellery, with an estimated turnaround time of four to six weeks, alongside ready-to-ship products.

The brand's portfolio includes collections catering to different style preferences. The HEIR collection features distinctive designs intended to add character to everyday outfits, while the Hip Hop collection focuses on bold, unconventional and contemporary jewellery styles.

For the festive season, UNTAME has introduced its Diwali collection, drawing inspiration from the four suits of a deck of cards: Hearts, Diamonds, Clubs and Spades. The collection adopts a playful design approach to festive jewellery.

The brand's philosophy centres on making fine jewellery a part of everyday life rather than reserving it for special occasions. UNTAME's positioning reflects a shift in jewellery consumption, with consumers increasingly exploring designs that can be worn across different settings and styled according to personal preferences. The brand aims to make diamond jewellery more accessible for everyday use through versatile designs that combine craftsmanship with contemporary styling.

With its India debut, UNTAME is entering the fine jewellery market with a focus on everyday luxury, customisation and individual expression.

Rare’Z by The House of Rare has introduced Montare, a footwear collection designed to bridge the gap between formal shoes and sneakers. The collection combines a tailored appearance with the comfort of everyday footwear, offering an alternative to conventional formal styles.

Montare features flat soles, streamlined proportions, and soft leather construction. The collection focuses on clean silhouettes and material quality, positioning sneakers as an option for occasions that call for a more refined look without compromising on everyday comfort.

The designs incorporate soft leather intended to mould to the foot for a GLOVE-LIKE fit, along with breathable construction to support extended wear. Elastic laces and flexible collars provide a secure fit while enabling SLIP-ON functionality. The collection places emphasis on the relationship between material, fit and silhouette, with each design element serving a functional or aesthetic purpose.

A key design feature is a motif derived from Montare’s logo, which serves as a signature across the collection. The detailing reflects the collection's focus on proportion and the smaller design elements that distinguish each style.

The Montare range includes four variants: K and K7 for men, and Q and Q7 for women.

The K and Q variants feature flatter toe shapes and streamlined profiles, complemented by stylised R panels. In contrast, the K7 and Q7 styles have rounded toes and gathered elastic collars, creating a softer silhouette. Selected designs also feature subtle debossed branding and metal lining trim. The Q and Q7 variants offer two lace options, including printed laces.

The collection's colour palette includes muted neutrals, earthy shades and more expressive colours, allowing the silhouettes and detailing to remain central to the designs.

Manish Poddar, Founder and Creative Director, The House of Rare and Rare’Z said, “Good design is as much about what you choose to leave out as what you choose to put in. With Montare, the intention was to find the right balance in proportion, to give each silhouette its own character without overworking it. I’m particularly interested in how a small shift in shape or a detail that might seem incidental can change the entire personality of a shoe. That is where the design comes alive - when every decision feels deliberate, but the end result feels instinctive.”

With Montare, Rare’Z is addressing the growing overlap between formal and casual footwear through designs that combine structured silhouettes with the practicality of sneakers. The collection reflects a shift towards versatile footwear that can accommodate different dressing preferences and occasions.

Men's grooming brand Gillette has partnered with actor Abhay Verma to highlight its shaving products and connect with younger consumers. The association brings together the brand's focus on shaving technology and Verma's growing popularity among audiences through his work in films and OTT projects.

The partnership was announced at P&G Loop, P&G India's creator collective that brings creators, media professionals, experts and cultural voices together to discuss the science, innovation and product development behind its brands. The event brought together thousands of creators and showcased innovations from P&G's portfolio, including Gillette's premium shaving range and the Gillette Mach3.

Verma, who has appeared in films and digital entertainment projects, has established a growing presence among younger audiences. Through the association, he will represent Gillette's focus on grooming and personal confidence.

The partnership also puts the spotlight on the Gillette Mach3, which features a 3D Flexi Head designed to follow facial contours, three anti-friction blades, and a metallic handle for grip and control. The brand states that the flexible head adapts to the curves of the face to provide a 100 percent smooth and comfortable shave, including around difficult areas such as the neck and chin.

Abhay Verma said, “Grooming is an important part of feeling confident and putting my best self forward. What stands out to me about Gillette is its 125-year legacy of engineering and how it continues to bring technology into everyday grooming. When it comes to my personal style, I’ve always preferred keeping things simple and sticking to a clean-shaven look because it feels natural and comfortable for me. And as I’ve become an actor, I’ve also become more particular about what I use and who I trust when it comes to my skin. I only trust the best, which is why I choose Gillette Mach3. It fits naturally into my routine and gives me the smooth, comfortable shave I look for when I want to maintain a clean, sharp look. I’m excited to be associated with a brand that has consistently helped men feel confident in their own skin, true to its philosophy, ‘The Best a Man Can Get".

Gillette continues to focus on product engineering and shaving performance as part of its approach to the men's grooming category. Its association with Verma reflects the brand's efforts to combine its product portfolio with contemporary cultural relevance and reach a younger consumer base.

Titan Watches has introduced its festive campaign, ‘Chosen Family’, under Utsav by Titan, focusing on the evolving definition of family and the role of gifting in celebrating relationships beyond traditional family ties.

55 percent of Titan watches are purchased as gifts, making gifting an important part of the brand’s business and consumer engagement. The latest campaign explores how friendships, workplace connections and shared experiences can develop into meaningful relationships that people choose to celebrate during the festive season.

The campaign features two narratives highlighting different forms of chosen family. The first follows a friendship that gradually becomes part of a family, with emotional connections continuing despite geographical distances. The second is set in a busy restaurant kitchen, where colleagues develop close bonds through long working hours, shared challenges, and everyday achievements.

Both stories examine how friendships and professional relationships can grow into lasting connections. Within these narratives, Titan watches feature as gifts that represent shared experiences, memories, and appreciation for the people who become an important part of one's life.

Ranjani Krishnaswamy, Chief Marketing Officer, Analog Watches, Titan Company Limited said, “Family is not just the one we are born into, but also the one we consciously build along the way. Through life’s many experiences, friends become family, colleagues become companions and grow into lifelong relationships. Through this campaign, Titan celebrates the beauty of these bonds and the joy of gifting a watch as an enduring expression of the time, memories and moments we share.”

The campaign's creative approach focuses on everyday relationships and the gestures that strengthen them. By placing gifting within familiar social and professional settings, Titan aims to highlight how relationships evolve through shared experiences and mutual support.

Chandni Shah, CEO, Kinnect and 22Feet Tribal shared, “‘Chosen Family’ gave us an opportunity to take a familiar festive emotion and find a truth that felt more relevant to how relationships are lived today. Family is also built through friendships, shared experiences, little gestures, and the people who simply show up for us over time. At Kinnect, we’ve always believed that the most powerful brand stories are rooted in a deep understanding of people, culture and the world around them. The focus was therefore to keep the storytelling simple, intimate and recognisable, while allowing Titan to play a natural role in moments of gratitude, belonging and celebration. It’s the kind of work we love doing, where a strong human truth and the role of the brand come together naturally.”

The campaign combines Titan's emotional storytelling approach with the brand's signature melody to communicate its central theme. Through ‘Chosen Family’, Utsav by Titan highlights the growing significance of relationships formed through friendship, work, and shared life experiences.

The campaign positions festive gifting as a way to acknowledge both traditional family bonds and the connections people develop over time, with watches serving as gifts to mark these relationships during Diwali.

Jewellery brand GIVA has introduced its Diwali campaign, ‘Pataka for Every Pataka’, featuring actor Shweta Tripathi. The campaign showcases the brand’s Pataka Collection, comprising 925 silver jewellery inspired by traditional firecrackers and festive elements associated with Diwali.

The campaign film uses the image of a woman printed on a firecracker packet as the starting point for a wordplay-led narrative around the term ‘pataka’. Tripathi presents different jewellery designs that draw inspiration from firecrackers and familiar festive symbols.

The collection includes earrings, pendants, rings, necklaces and bracelets featuring motifs such as rockets, chakris, anaar, mirchi fuljhadis and sutli bombs. Other designs take inspiration from Diwali favourites such as gujiya, kaju katli and rangoli.

The film uses Hinglish dialogues to introduce the collection's designs. Describing the pataka earrings, Tripathi says, 'Iss Diwali pataka ki awaaz kaan mein gunjegi nahi, jhumegi.' The rocket pendant is introduced with the line, 'Romeo rocket uss chand ke liye nahi, iss chand ke liye.'

The campaign ends with the message, 'Har pataka deserves a pataka.'

GIVA will promote the campaign through digital and social media platforms, influencer-led content, and other brand communication channels. Creator partnerships will also help extend the campaign concept beyond the main film.

American denim and lifestyle fashion brand Lucky Brand has entered the Indian market through Confluxe, marking the company’s second brand launch in the country. Founded in Los Angeles in 1990, Lucky Brand is known for its vintage-inspired denim, casual apparel, and California-influenced designs. The brand has expanded its offerings beyond denim to include clothing, footwear, and accessories, while maintaining its focus on individual expression and relaxed American styling.

With its entry into India, Lucky Brand aims to bring its American design influences to Indian consumers. The collection will feature the brand’s established design elements, with fits developed to suit Indian consumers. The approach combines Lucky Brand’s global identity with the requirements of the local market.

Denim remains a key category for the brand, with its products featuring varied washes, vintage-inspired finishes and versatile fits. Its broader portfolio caters to everyday dressing through casual apparel, footwear and accessories. The brand’s design approach draws on heritage influences and relaxed styling for different occasions.

For Confluxe, the addition of Lucky Brand marks another step in its efforts to introduce international fashion labels to India. The company has identified the American brand as its second launch in the country as it builds its portfolio for the Indian fashion and lifestyle market.

Louis Coucke highlighted Lucky Brand’s Los Angeles origins, vintage American influences, and emphasis on individuality and self-expression. The announcement also outlined the brand’s approach to adapting fits for Indian consumers while retaining its established design identity.

Lucky Brand’s entry comes as international fashion labels continue to explore opportunities in India. The market offers scope for brands looking to combine global design influences with products tailored to local consumer preferences.

Through its partnership with Confluxe, Lucky Brand will introduce its denim and lifestyle collections to Indian consumers, bringing its California-inspired aesthetic to the market with a focus on everyday wear and locally adapted fits.

AK|OK Anamika Khanna has partnered with premium cotton brand SUPIMA for its Autumn/Winter 2027 collection, which will be presented at Lakmē Fashion Week in partnership with the Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) in March 2027. The collaboration brings together contemporary Indian fashion design and SUPIMA's expertise in premium extra-long staple cotton.

The partnership was announced at an intimate brunch hosted at Nizwan Lounge, Taj Palace, New Delhi, by Anamika Khanna, Creative Director and Co-Founder of AK|OK, and Marc Lewkowitz, CEO of SUPIMA. The event brought together around 40 invited guests, including fashion industry representatives, media professionals and tastemakers, for an early preview of selected pieces from the upcoming collection.

The collection will explore the use of SUPIMA cotton through AK|OK's contemporary design approach, focusing on the relationship between fabric quality, craftsmanship and modern silhouettes. The association aims to demonstrate how premium cotton can be used to create new expressions of contemporary fashion.

Sunil Sethi, Chairman, Fashion Design Council of India (FDCI) Said, “Collaborations such as these are important in creating new opportunities for designers to experiment  with materials, techniques and creative expression. Anamika Khanna has consistently brought a distinctive perspective to Indian fashion, and her association with SUPIMA opens up an interesting dialogue between textile excellence and contemporary design. We are pleased to see this partnership take shape on the Lakmē Fashion Week platform and look forward to the collection's unveiling next season.”

Jaspreet Chandok, Group Vice President, Reliance Brands Limited commented, “Lakmē Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI has always been a platform where meaningful collaborations between fashion, craftsmanship and innovation come to life. The association between AK|OK Anamika Khanna and SUPIMA brings together two distinct strengths: a bold, contemporary design sensibility and a globally recognised commitment to premium cotton. We are delighted to provide a platform for this creative partnership and look forward to its runway presentation in March 2027.”

Anamika Khanna, Creative Director and Co-Founder, AK|OK shared, “I’m really happy to be partnering with Supima cotton. For me, it always begins with the fabric. The simplest garment has to feel effortless the moment you put it on, and that only happens when the fabric is right. This association feels like a natural fit for how we make clothes at AK|OK: soft, easy and made to be lived in. It’s a collaboration I’m really excited about.”

Marc Lewkowitz, CEO, SUPIMA added, “I’m really excited about the Supima collaboration because I think it gives us an opportunity to look at cotton in a completely different way. For me, it’s about taking something as familiar and timeless as cotton and exploring its possibilities through our design language — through texture, construction, proportion and detail. With the collection, I’m looking at creating pieces that feel modern, considered and effortless, but still have a strong point of view. I want to explore how we can push the fabric beyond its traditional associations and create something that feels contemporary, elevated and relevant internationally. I think it’s a lovely opportunity to bring together the quality of Supima cotton with our approach to design and craftsmanship, and I’m looking forward to seeing how the collection evolves.”

The announcement event also featured a live musical performance and a floral installation where guests could create personalised bouquets wrapped in SUPIMA cotton fabric. The activities offered attendees an opportunity to engage with the material that will form the basis of the upcoming collection.

The collaboration marks a new association between AK|OK's contemporary design approach and SUPIMA's focus on premium cotton. The Autumn/Winter 2027 collection is scheduled to debut at the March 2027 edition of Lakmē Fashion Week in partnership with FDCI, with the two brands set to explore the role of fabric innovation and craftsmanship in contemporary fashion.

Kurkure, PepsiCo India's snack brand, has introduced Ribbon Pakoda, a new product inspired by the traditional South Indian snack, as part of its regional product portfolio. The product will be available across Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu through neighbourhood kirana stores.

Kurkure Ribbon Pakoda is made using rice flour, urad dal, chana dal, moong dal, sesame seeds and black pepper. The snack also features Guntur chilli for a spicier flavour profile. According to the company, the product is prepared using rice bran oil and contains no palm oil, artificial colours, or artificial flavours.

Ankit Agarwal, Marketing Director, Kurkure, PepsiCo India shared, “Consumers across South India take immense pride in their food traditions, and Ribbon Pakoda is one such snack that evokes familiarity, nostalgia and joy. As a proudly homegrown brand, Kurkure is constantly looking for ways to celebrate India's diverse food culture. With Kurkure Ribbon Pakoda, we are drawing inspiration from an iconic South Indian favourite and reimagining it through the distinctive Kurkure experience. This launch reflects our commitment to creating products inspired by regional tastes and bringing consumers flavours that feel both exciting and authentically local."

The product launch is supported by a marketing campaign that draws on the familiarity of traditional snacks and the memories associated with homemade recipes. The campaign film uses a police officer setting inspired by South Indian cinema to introduce the new snack.

The campaign will be rolled out in Kannada across television and digital platforms, while Tamil and Telugu versions will be available on digital platforms.

The launch reflects Kurkure's focus on regional flavours and local food preferences as packaged snack brands seek to expand their offerings for consumers across different markets in India.

Kurkure Ribbon Pakoda will be sold in two pack sizes. The 28-gram pack will be priced at Rs 10, while the 56-gram pack will cost Rs 20. The product's initial availability will cover three southern states, with distribution planned through traditional retail outlets.

Mangalmai, a traditional diya oil brand, has partnered with Namit Malhotra’s Ramayana: Rise of a Legend, a Diwali special film scheduled for release on November 5. The collaboration aims to connect the brand’s role in Indian worship practices with the cultural significance of the Ramayana and the tradition of lighting diyas during festive occasions.

The partnership is anchored in the campaign theme “Aapke Jeevan Ka Har Din Mangalmai Ho” and will feature a 360-degree marketing activation across multiple consumer touchpoints. The initiative seeks to strengthen Mangalmai’s presence in everyday worship rituals and Diwali celebrations.

As part of the campaign, the brand will organise social media contests, with winners receiving Ramayana-themed merchandise, including a special-edition Amar Chitra Katha comic book. Mangalmai bottles will also feature special Diwali stickers inspired by the epic.

In addition, the brand is collaborating with a non-governmental organisation to produce special diyas, supporting women artisans and promoting women’s empowerment.

Mangalmai products are available through quick-commerce and online grocery platforms, including Zepto, Swiggy and BigBasket, as well as the brand’s official website.

The association brings together a household worship product and a culturally significant film property during the festive season. Through the collaboration, Mangalmai aims to improve brand recall, engage consumers across age groups, and highlight the role of diya lighting in daily worship and auspicious occasions.

Lighting a diya holds religious and cultural significance in India, symbolising the victory of light over darkness, devotion, faith and hope. Mangalmai states that its diya oil offers a long-lasting flame without black soot and contains the goodness of til oil.

The campaign also draws on themes associated with the Ramayana, including the triumph of good over evil, dharma, truth and righteousness. The brand plans to use storytelling, retail visibility and consumer engagement to connect these themes with household traditions.

a spokesperson for Mangalmai said, “Lighting a diya is an integral part of India’s cultural and spiritual traditions, whether during everyday worship, festive celebrations or auspicious beginnings. Diya oil has long been an essential part of Indian households and the rituals that bring families together. Our association with Ramayana gives us an opportunity to celebrate this enduring tradition while building a distinctive connection for Mangalmai in consumers’ lives. Through ‘Aapke Jeevan Ka Har Din Mangalmai Ho’, we aim to bring together tradition, storytelling, and consumer engagement, reinforcing the role of the diya in rituals that continue to hold meaning across generations.”

LT Foods Ltd. has introduced a new advertising campaign for its DAAWAT® Rozana basmati rice brand, focusing on consistency in everyday cooking. Featuring chef, author, and television personality Ranveer Brar, the campaign highlights the challenge Indian households face in achieving perfectly cooked rice every day.

Titled around the message “Har Din Baney Perfect”, the campaign highlights DAAWAT Rozana's proposition of delivering consistent basmati rice for daily meals. Developed by BBDO India, the film uses a familiar family setting to communicate the product's positioning.

The advertisement begins at a family dining table, where a mother questions her son, Rohan, about his inconsistent examination scores. Rohan responds by comparing his performance with the rice cooked at home, pointing out that it turns out fluffy on some days and sticky on others.

The conversation sets the context for Ranveer Brar to introduce DAAWAT Rozana as an alternative to loose basmati rice. He highlights the brand's selection process and its focus on delivering consistent results throughout the week. The film concludes with the message, “DAAWAT Rozana. Har Din Baney Perfect!” The final scene returns to the family dining table, where the rice receives “full marks” from Rohan.

Ritesh Arora, CEO – India & Far East, LT Foods Ltd. said, “At LT Foods, we believe in building enduring consumer brands by staying closely connected to their food preferences and consumption habits. As we continue to further strengthen our strong brand equity and expand its relevance across consumer needs and consumption occasions, our focus is on creating compelling value propositions across consumer segments and price points, while strengthening our portfolio and driving greater penetration of branded packaged Basmati. DAAWAT® Rozana is an important part of this journey, enabling us to strengthen our presence in everyday rice consumption and bring more consumers into the branded packaged rice category. The campaign is another step towards building greater relevance for DAAWAT® in the everyday lives of consumers and giving consumers a compelling proposition that brings together the trust of DAAWAT® with the quality and consistency they seek in everyday rice”

Mr. Ritesh Sud, Chief Marketing Officer, India & Far East, LT Foods Ltd., said, “Rice is an everyday staple, but getting it right every time is a real household challenge. We took that insight and gave it a fun, memorable twist by drawing a parallel between unpredictable test scores and unpredictable rice. The result is a campaign that makes a functional benefit highly relatable and reinforces DAAWAT® Rozana as the go-to choice for everyday perfect basmati rice.”

DAAWAT® Rozana Delight is available through e-commerce, quick-commerce, modern trade and general trade channels.

The Func. Lab has entered the creatine supplement market with the launch of CREASalts and Crea Protein, introducing formulations that combine creatine with hydration and protein products. The range is designed to make daily creatine supplementation easier by incorporating it into nutrition formats commonly used by fitness enthusiasts.

Developed around the brand's “function over fluff” philosophy, the portfolio includes CREASalts, Plant Protein + Creatine and Whey Protein + Creatine, offering consumers different ways to incorporate creatine into their routines.

CREASalts combines 3 g of creatine monohydrate with 500 mg of sodium, 105 mg of potassium, 30 mg of magnesium and 1 g of taurine per serving. The product combines creatine with electrolytes in a single drink and is available in Watermelon, Guava, Berry and Citrus (Lemon) flavours. It is priced at Rs 500 for 15 servings and Rs 1,000 for 30 servings.

The Crea Protein range combines 3 g of creatine monohydrate with protein in each serving. The plant-based variant contains pea and rice protein isolates, while the whey-based option combines whey protein with creatine. Both formulations are available in Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Vanilla, Coffee, and Unflavoured variants.

Plant Protein + Creatine is priced at Rs 600 for the Travel Pack, Rs 1,250 for 500 g, Rs 2,500 for 1 kg, and Rs 4,500 for 2 kg. Whey Protein + Creatine costs Rs 1,500 for the Travel Pack, Rs 3,600 for 500 g, Rs 7,000 for 1 kg, and Rs 11,900 for 2 kg. Consumers can also opt for the brand's standalone creatine product.

Sohrab Khushrushahi, Co-founder, The Func. Lab said, “Creatine is one of the most researched ingredients in performance nutrition, but the biggest challenge is often consistency. We wanted to think beyond another tub of flavoured creatine and look at how people actually build habits. Hydration is already part of so many people’s training routine. CREASalts makes creatine part of that same ritual.”

Daneesh Davar, Co-founder, The Func. Lab, highlighted the need to broaden conversations around creatine and women's fitness, emphasising the importance of strength as people age. Sahil Kukreja, Co-founder, The Func. Lab, said the products aim to simplify supplementation by combining creatine with hydration and protein, reducing the need to measure and mix multiple supplements separately.

The launch reflects The Func. Lab's approach to making creatine supplementation more convenient through products designed for everyday nutrition and training routines.

Built around the theme ‘The Stories We Wear’, the collection positions diamond jewellery as more than an accessory, highlighting its emotional significance across relationships, celebrations and generations. The collection draws inspiration from jewellery associated with weddings, birthdays, family milestones and heirloom pieces passed down through generations.

The collaboration brings together Sparkles’ expertise in diamond jewellery with ARIAS’ contemporary design philosophy, offering pieces that combine modern aesthetics with emotional significance. The collection is designed for occasions and relationships spanning love, friendship, family bonds and personal milestones.

Speaking about the collaboration, Lara Dutta said, “Jewellery has always meant much more to me than something beautiful that we wear. The pieces we truly cherish almost always have a person, a memory or a moment attached to them.”

She added that the collection aims to create pieces that consumers can wear, cherish and eventually pass on to loved ones.

For Sparkles, the partnership is an effort to build a contemporary narrative around diamond jewellery by emphasising personal expression and emotional connections alongside traditional occasion-led purchases.

Raman Gupta, CEO of Sparkles, said, “Jewellery becomes truly precious when it carries a story. Through our collaboration with ARIAS by Lara Dutta, we wanted to create a collection that combines contemporary diamond jewellery with emotional relevance.”

Secret Alchemist has introduced its Diwali campaign for Signature, its Indian perfumery collection featuring co-founder and actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu. The campaign also marks the introduction of the collection in a new 50ml format, highlighting the brand's focus on developing contemporary fragrances using Indian botanical ingredients.

The collection centres on the use of Indian ingredients as the foundation of fragrance creation rather than simply drawing inspiration from the country's traditional perfumery. Secret Alchemist combines India's botanical heritage with modern fine fragrance techniques, placing emphasis on ingredient sourcing, provenance and craftsmanship.

Each fragrance in the Signature collection is associated with a specific location in India, with its composition influenced by the area's history, natural characteristics and growing conditions. The brand carries these elements through the fragrance development process, from sourcing and distillation to blending and bottling.

Rather than replicating traditional Indian attars or conventional interpretations of Indian fragrances, Secret Alchemist approaches these ingredients through contemporary fragrance design. The collection aims to establish a distinct identity for Indian perfumery by combining locally sourced botanicals with modern fragrance-making methods.

The Diwali campaign brings this approach to consumers through a visual and sensory narrative featuring Samantha Ruth Prabhu. It highlights the relationship between ingredients, their origins, and the process of transforming them into contemporary fragrances. The campaign's central focus is the new 50ml Signature collection and the stories behind its compositions.

Ankita Thadani, Co-Founder, Secret Alchemist stated, “With Signature, we wanted to explore Indian perfumery through the lens of origin, looking at our ingredients not just as notes in a fragrance, but as stories shaped by the places they come from. India has an extraordinary botanical heritage, and we believe these ingredients have the potential to define a new expression of contemporary fine fragrance. The intention was never to recreate the traditional, but to reinterpret what is inherently ours through a modern lens. Signature is a reflection of that belief, bringing together provenance, craftsmanship and contemporary fragrance design to create something that feels deeply rooted in India, yet relevant to the world today.”

Through Signature, Secret Alchemist aims to develop its approach to contemporary Indian perfumery by combining the country's botanical resources with modern fragrance design. The collection reflects the brand's focus on origin-led compositions and ingredient-driven storytelling, positioning Indian botanicals as the starting point for creating fragrances for domestic and international consumers.

Swiss watchmaker Tissot has introduced ‘The Gift of Time’, a festive campaign that traces its evolution since 1853 while connecting its heritage with contemporary audiences. The campaign focuses on craftsmanship, innovation, togetherness, and the tradition of gifting watches.

Set inside a train carriage, the campaign film follows a protagonist travelling through different periods in Tissot's history before returning to the present. The narrative highlights key developments in the brand's watchmaking journey and its continued focus on precision and design.

Founded in 1853 by Charles-Félicien Tissot, a gold case-fitter, and his son Charles-Émile, a watchmaker, the company began as the “Charles-Félicien Tissot & Son” assembly workshop at their family home in Le Locle, Switzerland. Its pocket and pendant watches gained international recognition, helping establish the foundation for the Manufacture at Chemin des Tourelles, which remains central to the brand's operations.

Tissot's history includes several technological developments. By the late 1930s, the company had developed the world's first anti-magnetic wristwatch to maintain accuracy in the presence of magnetic fields generated by electrical appliances. Its research into water resistance also contributed to later collections, including the Seastar, introduced in the 1950s.

In the 1960s, Tissot introduced the PR 516, featuring shock-resistant suspended movements and perforated bracelets designed to combine durability with comfort. During the 1970s, the brand expanded its quartz watch offerings while continuing to develop automatic models. These included the IDEA 2001, described as the world's first watch with a movement made from synthetic material that required no lubrication, following two decades of research.

Today, Tissot continues to focus on precision and performance through its watch collections and sports partnerships. The brand serves as Official Timekeeper for international events, including the NBA and WNBA, the Tour de France and MotoGP. It also maintains partnerships with organisations such as the Swiss Ice Hockey Federation.

Its current portfolio includes the Tissot PRX Quartz Chronograph, which combines an integrated design with a retro-modern aesthetic, the Tissot Désir Moonphase with its moonphase complication, and the Tissot Ballade, which includes COSC-certified chronometer models.

Through ‘The Gift of Time’, Tissot connects its watchmaking heritage with the tradition of gifting, highlighting how timepieces can mark personal milestones and meaningful occasions.

Jaypore, the artisanal lifestyle brand owned by Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Limited, has introduced ‘A Tale of Two Crafts’, a collection that brings together the traditional Indian crafts of Ajrakh and Kalamkari. The collection draws on India's craft heritage, adapting these textile traditions for contemporary everyday wear.

Inspired by nature and traditional craftsmanship, the range features hand-block prints, nature-inspired motifs and earthy colours. The designs highlight the distinctive characteristics of both crafts while incorporating silhouettes intended for everyday use.

The collection uses breathable fabrics, including pure cotton and cambric, with variations in prints reflecting the handcrafted production process. Each piece showcases the individual characteristics of artisanal textiles, where patterns and finishes may differ slightly.

Vandana Gupta, Creative Head, Jaypore said, “At Jaypore, we believe that craft is a living expression of the stories, traditions and communities that shape it. With ‘A Tale of Two Crafts’, we bring together the distinct beauty of Ajrakh and Kalamkari, drawing from their deep connection with nature, colour and the artisan's hand. The collection is our way of celebrating these enduring traditions while giving them a place in contemporary wardrobes. Through easy silhouettes, thoughtful details and the individuality of handcrafted prints, we hope to make India's rich artisanal legacy a part of everyday dressing, to be worn, cherished and lived in.”

The collection combines two craft traditions with distinct design approaches. Ajrakh is known for its geometric patterns and earthy colour palette, while Kalamkari draws on natural elements, including plants, animals and organic forms, to create narrative designs. Their combination brings together different patterns, colours and textures, with each print retaining the characteristics of the artisan's work.

The range includes relaxed kurtas, tunics, dresses and coordinated sets, accompanied by pants and dupattas. The designs combine traditional prints with contemporary silhouettes, offering options for different everyday settings and occasions. The use of breathable fabrics and colour-rich prints forms a key part of the collection's design approach.