Stories on 31st Jan '14

Independent or align with a global network?
Given L&K's stake sale to Publicis, Sajan Raj Kurup (Creativeland) and Santosh Padhi (Taproot) talk on independent creative agencies aligning with big networks
 http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/independent-or-align-with-a-global-network/

For Amitabh Bachchan, endorsing Pepsi is not the right choice!
The megastar told IIM-A students that he had stopped endorsing Pepsi after Jaipur girl called it 'poison'
 http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/for-amitabh-bachchan-endorsing-pepsi-is-not-the-right-choice/

#1 daily Dainik Jagran damns IRS on its Page 1
Dainik Jagran went a step further and said the AC Nielsen's claim of scientific method of surveying is 'khokhla'
 http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/1-daily-dainik-jagran-damns-irs-on-its-page-1/

Shailesh Kapoor: Rahul Gandhi and We, the Interview-Starved Nation
When you have nothing specific to say, Arnab Goswami is the last person you want around you, writes Shailesh Kapoor on the Rahul Gandhi interview on Times Now which "dominated the news landscape this week"
 http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/shailesh-kapoor-rahul-gandhi-and-we-the-interview-starved-nation/

Ranjona Banerji: Disappointing and limited political coverage by Eng media
The collusion between political parties and Delhi's journalists is nothing new and we see it in our newspapers and on our TV screens everyday, writes Ranjona Banerji
 http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/ranjona-banerji-disappointing-and-limited-political-coverage-by-eng-media/

Abhijit Avasthi: As of today, Ogilvy not participating in Abby. But if Ad Club accepts its demands, it could...
A chat with with the Ogilvy & Mather National Creative Director revealed the agency is still awaiting the Abby organizers response to its demands
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/abhijit-avasthi-as-of-today-ogilvy-not-participating-in-abby-but-if-ad-club-accepts-its-demands-it-could/

Colors back at #2 as Life OK biggest gainer in Week 4
Star Plus was at 606 (previous week 626), Colors at 449 (467), Zee at 441 (471), Life OK 375 (347), Sab 323 (318) and Sony was at 254 (258)
 http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/colors-back-at-2-as-life-ok-biggest-gainer-in-week-4/

Videcon claims 10mn d2h connections
Late entrant Videocon’s DTH service celebrates 10 million connections in four years
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/videcon-claims-10mn-d2h-connections/

Stories on 30th Jan '14

Publicis takes majority stake in Law & Kenneth, asks L&K to take charge of Saatchi & Saatchi
The new structure to have both companies working under the L&K Saatchi & Saatchi brand
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/publicis-takes-majority-stake-in-law-kenneth-asks-lk-to-take-charge-of-saatchi-saatchi/

Colors back at #2 as Life OK biggest gainer in Week 4
Star Plus was at 606 (previous week 626), Colors at 449 (467), Zee at 441 (471), Life OK 375 (347), Sab 323 (318) and Sony was at 254 (258)
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/colors-back-at-2-as-life-ok-biggest-gainer-in-week-4/

Abhijit Avasthi: As of today, Ogilvy not participating in Abby. But, if Ad Club accepts its demands, it could...
A chat with with the Ogilvy & Mather National Creative Director revealed the agency is still awaiting the Abby organizers response to its demands
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/abhijit-avasthi-as-of-today-ogilvy-not-participating-in-abby-but-if-ad-club-accepts-its-demands-it-could/

Key newspapers likely to contest IRS numbers in Court
MxMIndia learns that a few leading dailies are planning to collectively and individual contest the IRS in Court. They are currently seeking legal opinion on the same.
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/key-newspapers-likely-to-contest-irs-numbers-in-court/

Taproot launches second phase of TOI campaign on farmer suicides
The second phase of the campaign was launched a few days back with a two-minute TVC, digital and print advertising and exhibitions which will draw people to understand the problem and donate
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/taproot-launches-second-phase-of-toi-campaign-on-farmer-suicides/

Pune Design Festival on Feb 14-15
The Association of Designers of India has announced the eight annual edition of the Pune Design Festival. It will be held on February 14 and 15 at Hotel Le Meridien, Pune
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/pune-design-festival-on-feb-14-15/

Rajshekar Patil joins TBWA as CD
TBWA\India announced the appointment of Rajshekar Patil as Creative Director based in the Mumbai office
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/rajshekar-patil-joins-tbwa-as-cd/

Stories on 29th Jan '14

D&AD enters India with Kyoorius Ad Awards
In what could change the landscape of controvery-ridden ad awards, Kyoorius brings in D&AD backed awards for creative advertising
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/dad-enters-india-with-kyoorius-advertising-awards/

We will go the critic route rather than the popular route: Rajesh Kejriwal + quotes from R Balki, Josy Paul & Sajjan Raj Kurup
 http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/dad-enters-india-with-kyoorius-advertising-awards/

One Min View: Can the industry afford two creative advertising awards?
What D&AD brings to the table is a rigour in the judging process which Kyoorius pledges to honour and maintain
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/one-min-view-can-the-industry-afford-two-creative-advertising-awards/

Decision on TV ratings guidelines stay pushed to Feb 11
The Delhi High Court has deferred its decision on staying the TV ratings guidelines to February 11
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/decision-on-tv-ratings-guidelines-stay-pushed-to-feb-11/

IRS 2013: Toplines & Top 10s + Why it's incorrect to analyse numbers
Since it is incorrect to compare with the last IRS figures, it would be prudent to do an analysis only after the next round. (Includes Slideshow of Toplines)
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/irs-2013-toplines-top-10s-why-its-incorrect-to-analyse-numbers/

Knives out. dna questions new IRS numbers
dna has put on a front-page note saying there is a "clear mismatch" between the IRS numbers and its own database of readers
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/knives-out-dna-questions-new-irs-numbers/

Jaldi 5 with Paritosh Joshi, IRS TechCom head: Await one more round before arriving at judgement
The head of the MRUC's technical committee on the new round of IRS numbers, the surprises thrown up and why he prefers to spend time on techcoms than playing golf or potter around the house
 http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/jaldi-5-with-paritosh-joshi-irs-techcom-head-await-one-more-round-before-arriving-at-judgement/

iRetain. No call drop as Motivator keeps iPhone mandate, adds iPad and Mac to kitty
GroupM's Motivator has retained the Apple account after a month-long pitch
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/iretain-no-call-drop-as-motivator-keeps-iphone-mandate-adds-ipad-and-mac-to-kitty/

Stories on 28th Jan '14

Sacrificing 5 GRPs is fine, carriage fees to DTH isn't: Anuj Gandhi & Gaurav Gandhi
The IndiaCast CEO and COO on what the Dish TV decision to charge carriage fees means to them and the trade
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/sacrificing-5-grps-is-fine-carriage-fees-to-dth-isnt-anuj-gandhi-gaurav-gandhi-indiacast/

Dainik Jagran is #1 daily in IRS, Hindustan is #2
While Dainik Jagran continues to be #1, Hindustan has climbed up to #2 position as Dainik Bhaskar is #3
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/dainik-jagran-is-1-daily-in-irs-hindustan-is-2/

Ranjona Banerji: The Rahul Gandhi interview was more about Arnab Goswami
The whole interview sounded too structured. There was no flow and there was no charm. I for one learnt little new about Rahul Gandhi except that he has some good artwork on his walls, writes Ranjona Banerji
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/ranjona-banerji-the-rahul-gandhi-interview-was-more-about-arnab-goswami/

Only 13 Indian shortlists at Festival of Media APAC
Last year, there were a 31 shortlists from India, and for the 2014 edition, it's 13
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/only-13-indian-shortlists-at-festival-of-media-apac/

Jaldi 5 with Nisha Narayanan: Small cities will be as important as Delhi or Mumbai
In a quick Q&A, Red FM COO Nisha Narayanan talks of how 2013 was for her radio, her plans for the stations in 2014 and where the radio sector is headed in adspends this year
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/jaldi-5-with-nisha-narayanan-small-cities-will-be-as-important-as-delhi-or-mumbai/

IAA Olive Crown introduces 'Corporate Social Crusader' Award
The Olive Crown Awards This award will honour a company's commitment to being socially and environmentally responsible by engaging in CSR activity that has an impact on society
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/iaa-olive-crown-introduces-corporate-social-crusader-award/

Senior alumni discuss empowerment, digital marketing at MICA's Grand Alumni Meet
Senior alumni were part of the panel discussions in the Business Conclave of the Grand Alumni Meet at MICA, Ahmedabad
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/senior-alumni-discuss-empowerment-digital-marketing-at-micas-grand-alumni-meet/

India Today group launches Discovery Channel Magazine
The English monthly magazine will be priced at Rs 150 and will be edited by Jamal Sheikh

http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/india-today-group-launches-discovery-channel-magazine/

Stories on 27th Jan '14

Why (& How) Reliance Retail is expanding in a slow market
Averaging five new stores every six days, the Rs 10,800 cr subsidiary of Reliance Industries is inching towards profitablity
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/why-how-reliance-retail-is-expanding-in-a-slow-market/

Padma Shri for Sakal chairman Pratap Pawar
The Sakal Media Group chairman is among the 127 Padma Awardees for 2014
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/padma-shri-for-sakal-chairman-pratap-pawar/

News18.com launched aggregating ETV’s news
It will draw on the local newsgathering expertise of the ETV network of news channels whose Hindi services cover seven states of Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/news18-com-launched-aggregating-etv%e2%80%99s-news/

Indian consumers spend up to 187% more on brands they follow online: Waggener Edstrom
According to a Waggener Edstrom  study, a staggering 97 percent of those survey said they follow their favourite brands on social channels
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/indian-consumers-spend-up-to-187-more-on-brands-they-follow-online-waggener-edstrom/

It's official. Sunil Lulla is now Prez-Corp Devpt, as MK Anand to join as MD & CEO, Times TV
In his new role, Mr Lulla will be working closely with Vineet Jain, Managing Director, BCCL Group and Satyan Gajwani, Chief Executive Officer, Times Internet Ltd overseeing a number of group initiatives in the areas of sports, music, international events and more
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/it%e2%80%99s-official-sunil-lulla-is-now-prez-corp-devpt-as-mk-anand-to-join-as-md-ceo-times-tv/

Madison PR starts 2014 with 20 new clients
Madison Public Relations scores high with 20 new clients in Jan 2014
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/madison-pr-starts-2014-with-20-new-clients/

Amith Prabhu: The PR professional-Journalist changing equation
Amith Prabhu offers ideas on how PR professionals focusing on media relations can improve their relations with journalists
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/amith-prabhu-the-pr-professional-journalist-changing-equation/

Reviewing the Reviews: 1.5 to 3.5 stars for Jai Ho
Nonsense seemed to be the tone of every review with all critics well aware that Jai Ho is  the kind of film that exists in its own intellect-proof universe
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/reviewing-the-reviews-1-5-to-3-5-stars-for-jai-ho/

NewsX kicks off show where guests will grill host MJ Akbar
Each week, guests will question, argue, give his opinion and probe host MJ Akbar on a topic of national significance
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/newsx-kicks-off-show-where-guests-will-grill-host-mj-akbar/

Sony Six to air 2014 Six Nations Rugby
MSM’s sports channel will air the 45-day rugby tournament being played by England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Italy and France
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/sony-six-to-air-2014-six-nations-rugby/

Stories on 24th Jan '14

Ready for a ratings-dark year?
While content and marketing teams may still survive it, the real problem will be for media planners and buyers, writes Shailesh Kapoor
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/ready-for-a-ratings-dark-year/

Arun Sharma returns to IPG Mediabrands after 10yrs at Airtel
Senior marketer and until recently head of the media vertical at all business units of Bharti Airtel, Arun Sharma has moved to IPG Mediabrands as Vice President
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/arun-sharma-returns-to-ipg-mediabrands-after-10yrs-at-airtel/

Maxus elevates Sanchayeeta Verma to Managing Partner
Maxus announced the elevation of Sanchayeeta Verma as Managing Partner, Maxus South India & South Asia
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/maxus-elevates-sanchayeeta-verma-to-managing-partner/

Zee Media launches ‘Zeegnition’ in multiple media with Adil Darukhanawala
Zeenigition will appear in dna newspaper as well as on the Web and on the various Zee Media Corp news channels
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/zee-media-launches-%E2%80%98zeegnition%E2%80%99-in-multiple-media-with-adil-darukhanawala/

Ranjona Banerji: So why did Times make a front-page statement?
The worst that The Times of India has been accused of is not patronage of a political party. The worst has to do with Medianet and private treaties, writes Ranjona Banerji
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/ranjona-banerji-so-why-did-times-make-a-front-page-statement/

Prathap Suthan: 8 fun ideas for Republic Day without being unpatriotic [Recall]
Love for the land should be much more than just standing ramrod straight when the national anthem plays. Loosen up people, says Prathap Suthan
http://www.mxmindia.com/2012/01/8-fun-ideas-for-republic-day-without-being-unpatriotic/

Stories on 23rd Jan '14

Why our brands do not connect...
Venturethree creative director Graham Jones writes in the Kyoorius magazine on what Indian brands need to do to connect with the billion+ consumers
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/why-brand-communication-fails-to-connect/

Sorry, but Kantar’s spokesperson knows nothing about the petition against the Govt of India
Do the government’s Jan 16 guidelines also impact Kantar’s tie-up with Tata Sky on the return path data audience research service?
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/sorry-but-kantar%E2%80%99s-spokesperson-knows-nothing-about-the-petition-against-the-govt-of-india/

New IRS study findings to be released next week
The Technical Committee meeting was held yesterday (Jan 22) and the first findings of the study are scheduled to be released before the month ends, and in all probability on January 28.
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/new-irs-study-findings-to-be-released-next-week/

Online retailers rush to create applications, specialised tools to drive sales
Sensing that most of the growth and revenues will come from mobile-only shoppers, only shopping destinations are rushing to create specialised tools, such as personalised deal generators and local-language apps
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/online-retailers-rush-to-create-applications-specialised-tools-to-drive-sales/

Life OK ahead of Sab in Week 3
Life OK ahead of Sab in Week 3 as per TAM ratings
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/life-ok-ahead-of-sab-in-week-3/

Radio City launches online Malayalam station
'Radio City Malayalam' on PlanetRadiocity.com will feature back-to-back Malayalam hits
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/radio-city-launches-online-malayalam-station/

Red FM partners Renault Star Guild Awards 2014
A new award – the  Bajaate Raho Dialogue of the Year 2013 – was included in the list of Renault Star Guild Awards 2014
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/red-fm-partners-renault-star-guild-awards-2014/

Stories on 22nd Jan '14

Maa, Meri Maa!
How and why advertisers have kicked off a celebration of women not as consumers but as mothers + 5 ads that’ll make you laugh, cry
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/maa-meri-maa/

Higher smartphone use rings in FMCG mobile ad growth
Consumer goods companies upped their media spends on the mobile platform in the past one year as smartphone penetration, coupled with a spurt in data usage, grew exponentially in the country.
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/higher-smartphone-use-rings-in-fmcg-mobile-ad-growth/

MSLGroup elevates 4 from India to Asia regional practice leadership
Of the eight new regional practice leaders in Asia, four are from the India office
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/mslgroup-elevates-4-from-india-to-asia-regional-practice-leadership/

Star India bags hockey fed rights for 8 years
Star India will be FIH's media partner in eight-year broadcast and rights deal
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/star-india-bags-hockey-fed-rights-for-8-years/

Jockey opens new page with Law & Kenneth
The leading brand of innerwear, leisurewear, sportswear and swimwear for men and women has appointed Law & Kenneth as its creative agency
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/jockey-opens-new-page-with-law-kenneth/

Big Magic Bihar & Jharkhand and Big FM partner Celebrity Cricket League 2014
While the FM network will air live updates through the tournament, the Bihar & Jharkhand channel has live telecast rights for four matches of Team Bhojpuri Dabangs along with semi-final and final matches
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/big-magic-bihar-jharkhand-and-big-fm-partner-celebrity-cricket-league-2014/

Stories on 21st Jan '14

It's official now: BARC chooses Mediametrie as tech partner
A quick chat with BARC chairman Punit Goenka and Benoit Cassagne. Senior VP, Mediametrie. Both are bullish on delivering a robust measurement system
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/its-official-now-barch-chooses-mediametrie-as-tech-partner/

Ahead of litigation, TAM part-owner Kantar takes on govt + A possible solution to the mess
Even as TAM part-owner Kantar takes on the government, there's a possible solution to the mess - which ensures the guidelines are followed and there's no blackout period
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/ahead-of-litigation-tam-part-owner-kantar-takes-on-govt-a-possible-solution-to-the-mess/

No Coke at IPL stadia as Pepsi likely to be beverages partner of Mumbai Indians
PepsiCo already has pouring rights of seven of the eight teams in the IPL, besides title-sponsorship rights for the cash-rich league
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/no-coke-at-ipl-stadia-as-pepsi-like-to-be-beverages-partner-of-mumbai-indians/

'Digital First' is theme of IAMAI's Digital Summit
The annual India Digital Summit organized by the Internet and Mobile Association of India on February 6 and 7 in New Delhi
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/digital-first-is-theme-of-iamais-digital-summit/

Ranjona Banerji: Did Sunanda Pushkar story merit top billing?
Everybody in India who takes part in the English media knows more about Sunanda Pushkar in her death than before. There is no justification at all for making this story more important than any other, writes Ranjona Banerji
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/ranjona-banerji-did-sunanda-pushkar-story-merit-top-billing/

Stories on 20th Jan '14

Lowe Lintas, HUL win big at Effie 2013
Lowe Lintas doesn't allow Ogilvy fifth consecutive 'Agency of the Year' title by 35 points as Hindustan Lever gets past Cadbury by 50 points + Quick chats with Hemant Bakshi of HUL and R Balki of Lowe Lintas
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/lowe-lintas-hul-win-big-at-effie-2013/

Cadbury misses a hat-trick as Ogilvy misses 5th consecutive crown + Effies 2013 Tally tables
From 2009 onwards, Ogilvy has been Agency of the Year. But the Client of the Year title has moved around a bit - in 2009, Vodafone, in 2010 to Tata Teleservices and in 2011 and 2012 to Cadbury
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/cadbury-misses-a-hat-trick-as-ogilvy-misses-fifth-consecutive-crown-effies-2013-tally-tables/

As time ticks on measurement guidelines, will TAM take MIB to court?
The industry grapevine suggests that TAM will take the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to court on the deadline of the measurement guidelines
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/as-time-ticks-on-measurement-guidelines-will-tam-take-mib-to-court/

Starcom wins media duties for Jindal Panther TMT Rebars
The media mandate for Jindal Panther TMT Rebars is worth Rs 15 crore
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/starcom-wins-media-duties-for-jindal-panther-tmt-rebars/

Amith Prabhu: Time to protect our profession from quacks
The profession that helps build and protect reputations has nothing to protect its reputation. Is there a way out of this situation before it is too late, asks Amith Prabhu

http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/amith-prabhu-time-to-protect-our-profession-from-quacks/

Stories on 17th Jan '14

Marathon time for Mumbai's media mavens
Top media and marketing pros are set to run the Mumbai Marathon on Sunday, Jan 19. Some are stressing about it, some running to destress & many others just for fun
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/marathon-time-for-mumbais-media-mavens/

The clock is ticking... Guidelines on TV audience measurement issued. 30 days wef Jan 16
The order on the guidelines uploaded on the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting website is dated January 16 and it clearly states that the guidelines will come into force 30 days from the date of issuance
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/the-clock-is-ticking-guidelines-on-tv-audience-measurement-issued-30-days-wef-jan-16/

Shailesh Kapoor: 2014-15: Time for Hindi Non-Fiction Overhaul
The ability for non-fiction programming to get new audiences to a channel, and its ability to create excitement in the advertiser community, are reasons enough for channels to invest in this category of content aggressively, writes Shailesh Kapoor
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/shailesh-kapoor-2014-15-time-for-hindi-non-fiction-overhaul/

Ranjona Banerji: When newsmedia went nuts about Tharoor
Journalists use the term "judgment call" on what to make of news. But was this front-page worthy for L'affaire Shashi Tharoor, wonders Ranjona Banerji
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/ranjona-banerji-when-newsmedia-went-nuts-about-tharoor/

94.3 Radio One hikes ad rates by 20%
The Next Radio Ltd and BBC Worldwide jv which runs seven differentiated formats in the metros has upped ad rates by 20 percent wef Feb 1
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/94-3-radio-one-hikes-ad-rates-by-20/

Week 2 sees Sab and Life OK tie
Week 2 of 2014 saw Zee rising to #2 with Sab and Life OK joint #4 in the weekly TAM ratings

http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/week-2-see-sab-and-life-ok-tie/

Stories on 16th Jan '14

Clients want works that work: Ajay Kakar on Effie 2013
The Chairperson of Ad Club's Effie 2013 on the 20 percent increase in entries and how effectiveness, more than just creativity, is what clients seek
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/clients-want-works-that-work-ajay-kakar-on-effie-2013/

RBNL recasts broadcast play, ends jv with CBS
The priority being flagship brands 92.7 Big FM, Hindi GEC Big Magic and regional foray with BIG Magic Bihar and Jharkhand, as per an RBNL statement
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/rbnl-recasts-broadcast-play-ends-jv-with-cbs/

Week 2 sees Sab and Life OK tie
Week 2 of 2014 saw Zee rising to #2 with Sab and Life OK joint #4 in the weekly TAM ratings
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/week-2-see-sab-and-life-ok-tie/

M K Anand to head Times Television, Sunil Lulla to head to BCCL in new role: Sources
According to source, the former Disney UTV MD-Media Networks will take charge of Times Television from Sunil Lulla who will move to a new role, possibly in the MD's office
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/m-k-anand-to-head-times-television-sunil-lulla-to-head-to-bccl-in-new-role-sources/

Arijit Ray moves to group role as Simi Sabhaney joins Dentsu Comm as CEO
Arijit Ray will lead New Business Development at Dentsu India Group as Simi Sabhaney, former President (Bengaluru and Chennai) at Ogilvy India moves into his role
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/m-k-anand-to-head-times-television-sunil-lulla-to-head-to-bccl-in-new-role-sources/

Times gets gung-ho on Gujarat [Updated]
All eyes on the Times of India group as it is set to launch Gujarati daily 'NavGujarat Samay' from Ahmedabad tomorrow
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/times-gets-gung-ho-on-gujarat/

Sony Six scores big with FIFA World Cup Brazil & Russia rights
The deal also includes rights to the FIFCA Under-17 World Cup 2017 to be hosted by India
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/sony-six-scores-big-with-fifa-world-cup-brazil-russia-rights/

Tupperware appoints Chandan Deep Singh Dang as CMO
Ex-Wrigley/Nokia/Pepsi/HUL marketing honcho now joins Tupperware
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/sony-six-scores-big-with-fifa-world-cup-brazil-russia-rights/

Havas awarded global media buying role for Iglo group
European frozen foods major Iglo Group has hired Havas Media as its global media buying agency
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/havas-awarded-global-media-buying-role-for-iglo-group/

Stories on 15th Jan '14

Times gets gung-ho on Gujarat
All eyes on the Times of India group as it is set to launch Gujarati daily 'NavGujarat Samay' from Ahmedabad tomorrow
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/times-gets-gung-ho-on-gujarat/

Starbucks' Manmeet Vohra to speak at FOMA APAC
The Festival of Media Asia-Pacific (FOMAP) has announced its agenda for the 2014 conference scheduled to be held from March 16 to 18 in Singapore.
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/starbucks-manmeet-vohra-to-speak-at-foma-apac/

Rohit Samarth elevated to Head, DDB MudraMax - Experiential
While Rohit Samarth will report to Mandeep Malhotra, President, DDB MudraMax, Alvin D'souza, Subhashish Sarkar and Amit Singh, who have been elevated to Head, Experiential - West, North and East, respectively, will be reporting to him
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/rohit-samarth-elevated-to-head-ddb-mudramax-experiential/

Kyoorius announces second edition of FYIdays with DixonBaxi
The session titled 'Broadcast Branding with DixonBaxi' will feature the minds behind leading London-based brand agency DixonBaxi - co-founder Aporva Baxi and Tim Watson, Head of Strategy
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/kyoorius-announces-second-edition-of-fyidays-with-dixonbaxi/

Vserv claims 3x growth with Unilever in bag
Vserv.mobi claims a 3x growth in Indian and South East Asian markets given growth of the mobile as a marketing medium

http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/vserv-claims-3x-growth-with-unilever-in-bag/

Stories on 14th Jan '14

The term 'media agency' is a bit outdated: CVL Srinivas
A freewheeling chat on his first year as CEO of GroupM South Asia, a lookback at 2013, plans for 2014 and the focus on digital
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/the-term-media-agency-is-a-bit-outdated-cvl-srinivas/

Ajay Kakar is Head of Jury at APAC Effie Awards 2014
The Chief Marketing Officer - Financial Services, Aditya Birla Group and Head of Effie Awards India 2013 has been invited to be a Head of Jury at the APAC Effie 2014
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/ajay-kakar-is-head-of-jury-at-apac-effie-awards-2014/

Vijay Karnataka asks people to "stop adjusting"
A new multiple media campaign by Vijay Karnataka asks citizens to take on corruption and inefficiencies
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/vijay-karnataka-asks-people-to-stop-adjusting/

DDB Mudra revitalises Livon Hair Gain's hair promise
A new TVC from Livon Hair Gain Tonic attempts an emotional connect with consumers
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/ddb-mudra-revitalises-livon-hair-gains-hair-promise/

Ranjona Banerji: No 'fine and dry' puhleez, dear BBC!
The BBC World Service weather reports on India needs to get real, notes Ranjona Banerji. And the English news channels must think of a world other than Arvind Kejriwal and AAP
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/ranjona-banerji-no-fine-and-dry-puhleez-dear-bbc/

Anand Thakur joins Aidem's Zirca as sales head
Aidem's recently launched digital brand solutions arm Zirca has appointed Anand Thakur as National Sales  Head

http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/anand-thakur-joins-aidems-zirca-as-sales-head/

Stories on 13th Jan '14

We can't be without a measurement system: Hemant Bakshi
As the ghost of a measurement data-free period looms large, the ISA chairman & Hindustan Unilever ED on how the absence of a currency for buying ads will adversely impact the TV trade
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/we-cant-be-without-a-measurement-system-hemant-bakshi/

Customer service top priority for marketers: Paul Writer Study
Indian marketers rate a better overall customer experience as their top priority, notes a Paul Writer study
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/customer-service-top-priority-for-marketers-paul-writer-study/

Madison's Platinum wins Lafarge Cement Media AOR
Platinum Media won the account of Lafarge India in Kolkata in a multi-agency pitch. The account will be handled out of the agency's Kolkata office
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/madisons-platinum-wins-lafarge-cement-media-aor/

Amith Prabhu: The Public Relations of Indian Politics
The Indian general elections is the arguably the biggest Public Relations exercise with multiple small parties wooing an electorate that no longer gets carried away by empty promises, writes Amith Prabhu
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/amith-prabhu-the-public-relations-of-indian-politics/

Reviewing the Reviews: Mostly raves for Dedh Ishqiya
The film got its media hook in the form of a comeback for Madhuri Dixit, and she seems to have got a mixed welcome, notes Deepa Gahlot
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/reviewing-the-reviews-mostly-raves-for-dedh-ishqiya/

SureWaves bags Rs 35-crore deal to hire talent, innovate
Canaan Partners has led a Rs 35-crore investment into Bengaluru-based digital media technology company SureWaves MediaTech
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/surewaves-bags-rs-35-crore-deal-to-hire-talent-innovate/

AXN India to bring top English shows, inks content acquisition deal with CBS
AXN India announced a content acquisition deal with CBS Studios International bringing many popular from January 27
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/axn-india-to-bring-top-english-shows-inks-content-acquisition-deal-with-cbs/

92.7 Big FM awarded Best Radio Station by Lion's Club in Mumbai
Big FM Mumbai was awarded 'Best Radio Station' at the 20th Lions Club Gold Awards in Mumbai last week

http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/92-7-big-fm-awarded-best-radio-station-by-lions-club-in-mumbai/

Stories on 10th Jan '14

End of the road for TAM?
Does the cabinet approval for the TRAI guidelines mean the end of the way TAM is owned or run currently? Perhaps. An analysis
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/end-of-the-road-for-tam/


Shailesh Kapoor | TV Ratings: Take It Easy, TRAI. Come Soon, BARC
The TRAI guidelines on TV ratings, while well-intended, have a "meddling" feel to them, which fear may slow down BARC’s progress, fears Shailesh Kapoor
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/shailesh-kapoor-tv-ratings-take-it-easy-trai-come-soon-barc/


177 case studies shortlisted for Effie 2013
The Effie 2013 awards night will now be held on Friday, January 17 in Mumbai at the Taj Lands End.
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/177-case-studies-shortlisted-for-effie-2013/


VServ infographic on mobile app development
Based on a survey of 1500 app developers, a VServ infographic showcases statistics and trends about app development while highlighting preferred platforms and development tools
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/vserv-infographic-on-mobile-app-development/


Ranjona Banerji: Debauchery UnLtd on News TV
Watching Arnab Goswami and Rahul Kanwal makes Ranjona Banerji feel for the star anchors. What they really want is a platform where they can share their opinions with the world, she writes. Instead, they’re stuck in a format where they have to ask other people for their opinions
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/ranjona-banerji-debauchery-unltd-on-news-tv/


Bharti AXA General Insurance takes streets to spread health insurance awareness
The insurance company uses viral internet marketing with true-to-life videos centred around critical illnesses
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/bharti-axa-general-insurance-takes-streets-to-spread-health-insurance-awareness/


Nimbus Sport facilitates Liverpool FC & Xolo partnership
Nimbus helps Liverpool Football Club ink first regional marketing partnership in India with Xolo
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/bharti-axa-general-insurance-takes-streets-to-spread-health-insurance-awareness/


Dainik Bhaskar starts work on 3rd edition of 'Mosaic'
Mosaic 2014 will champion print advertising by publishing top creative work from India
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/dainik-bhaskar-starts-work-on-3rd-edition-of-mosaic/


Dhoni's Helicopter Shot in Kiwi series only on Sony Six
Pardon the headline. But we were trying to innovate to draw you into a report on Sony Six bagging exclusive rights to the New Zealand - India 5ODI+2Tests series
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/dhonis-helicopter-shot-in-kiwi-series-only-on-sony-six/

Stories on 9th Jan '14

Marathi KBC's double gambit
ETV Marathi's Kon Hoeel Marathi Crorepati makes a quick comeback on the back of viewer demand and channel resurgence + Interview with Anuj Poddar, EVP & Business Head.
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/marathi-kbcs-double-gambit/

Star Plus starts year with 647 mn viewers. Colors, Zee at #2 and #3
The headline is self-explanatory, but here’s it again: Star Plus started 2014 with 647 mn viewers. Colors and Zee are No 2 and 3 respectively
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/star-plus-starts-year-with-647-mn-viewers-colors-zee-at-2-and-3/

Lukup Media & Warner Bros partner for India's first on-demand TV channel
The deal will see titles made available through the on-demand service from February 2014, as well as future new releases. Users will have access to more than 200 films and TV series from the Warner Bros. library.
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/lukup-media-warner-bros-partner-for-indias-first-on-demand-tv-channel/

Ashutosh quits IBN7, Vinay Tewari to take additional charge of news channel
IBN7 Managing Editor Ashutosh is moving on and will be succeeded by Vinay Tewari, Managing Editor, CNN-IBN
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/ashutosh-quits-ibn7-vinay-tewari-to-take-additional-charge-of-news-channel/

Zee is title sponsor of Jaipur Lit Fest
The Jaipur Literature Festival has announced Zee Entertainment as the new title sponsor for the 2014 edition that takes place next week - January 17-21. Over 20,000 people are expected to attend each day of the five-day fest
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/zee-is-title-sponsor-of-jaipur-lit-fest/

FabFurnish appoints Bang in the Middle as creative agency
The online home store has appointed Bang in the Middle as its communication partner
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/fabfurnish-appoints-bang-in-the-middle-as-creative-agency/

Online visit for looking up mobile phones registers 126% year-on-year growth: IAMAI
According to the latest Internet Economy Watch, published jointly by the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) and IMRB, the user visit to various websites to look for mobile phones has gone up from 6.05 million in November 2012 to 13.65 million in November 2013 registering a year-on-year growth of 126%
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/online-visit-for-looking-up-mobile-phones-registers-126-year-on-year-growth-iamai/

Stories on 8th Jan '14

6 tech-driven trends to look out for in 2014
Wearable fundraising, smart bras, e-Government and ambient Bluetooth consumer messaging are all set to trend in 2014, notes this report from Mindshare's Original Thinkers Series
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/6-tech-driven-trends-to-look-out-for-in-2014/

Tanmay Mohanty to take charge of Resultrix and Perfomics in India as Gulrez Alam moves to Singapore as Chief Devpt Officer for ZO APAC
The announcements are part of ZenithOptimedia Group's  management succession moves for Performics and Resultrix in India
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/tanmay-mohanty-to-take-charge-of-resultrix-and-perfomics-in-india-as-gulrez-alam-moves-to-singapore-as-chief-devpt-officer-for-zo-apac/

Channels fined, to apologise as news self-regulator NBSA acts on 7 complaints
News channels have been fined and asked to apologise as news self-regulator News Broadcasting  Standards Authority has announced its order on seven complaints received
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/channels-fined-to-apologise-as-news-self-regulator-nbsa-acts-on-7-complaints/

MouthShut's plea on IT Rules 2011 to come up for hearing in SC
MouthShut.com's plea challenging IT Rules 2011 is to come up for hearing in the Supreme Court
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/mouthshuts-plea-on-it-rules-2011-to-come-up-for-hearing-in-sc/

Sony Six pushes Star Sports out of Aus Open rights
The sports channel has bagged the rights for the Australian Open for five years
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/sony-six-pushes-star-sports-out-of-aus-open-rights/

Bull's Eye for Ormax's 'First Day Box Office' forecast tool
Ormax Media's FBO forecast model claims 100% accuracy in Dec 2013

http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/bulls-eye-for-ormaxs-first-day-box-office-forecast-tool/

Stories on 7th Jan '14

Get, set, go for the MxMIndia Annual 2
The second edition of our Annual issue is being readied. Pearls of wisdom from over a hundred industry captains. Insightful, unputdownable and worth the wait
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/get-set-go-for-the-mxmindia-annual-2/

Man Jit Singh is king at Sony Pictures Home Entertainment
Sony Pictures Entertainment has appointed former MSM CEO Man Jit Singh as President of its home entertainment business. He will continue as non-exec chairman of MSM in India
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/man-jit-singh-is-king-at-sony-pictures-home-entertainment/

India TV launches marketing campaign to promote new look
Editor-in-Chief Rajat Sharma is the face of the campaign where he makes an appeal to the nation to collectively bring about a change
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/india-tv-launches-marketing-campaign-to-promote-new-look/

Manu Joseph quits Open, successor not yet named
The record on Open's editorial top deck has been mixed with exits of key editors soon after its launch
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/manu-joseph-quits-open-successor-not-yet-named/

Ranjona Banerji: Knives out for AAP & Kejriwal as media tries to be judge, jury & executioner
The problem is the positioning of the Headlines Today sting as a failure of a nine-day-old government and the insinuation that the new party has already fallen apart on its promises, notes Ranjona Banerji

http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/ranjona-banerji-knives-out-for-aap-kejriwal-as-media-tries-to-be-judge-jury-executioner/

Stories on 6th Jan '14

Sunny times in 2014, say media agency bosses
The media agency business will see vibrant growth this year, predict captains of the media planning and buying business
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/sunny-times-in-2014-say-media-agency-bosses/

McCann's Rahul Mathew joins DDB Mudra West as Creative Head
He joins DDB Mudra West from McCann where he was ECD. He will report to Sonal Dabral
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/mccanns-rahul-mathew-joins-ddb-mudra-west-as-creative-head/

Creativeland's new campaign of Canvas Blaze by MTS
Creativeland Asia engages with 'internet generation' for the new campaign of Canvas Blaze by MTS
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/creativelands-new-campaign-of-canvas-blaze-by-mts/

Uday Shankar receives W Bengal govt award
West Bengal government recognises Star India CEO Uday Shankar for Special Contribution to Bengali Television
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/uday-shankar-receives-w-bengal-govt-award/

Amith Prabhu | 2014: A year that promises a lot of action
Amith Prabhu lists the five trends he sees happening in the field of public relations this year

http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/amith-prabhu-2014-a-year-that-promises-a-lot-of-action/

Stories on 3rd Jan '14

Kejriwal Is News, News Is Kejriwal
The political news on TV and in the papers was getting way too predictable of late and Arvind Kejriwal is the man with the twist, writes Shailesh Kapoor
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/kejriwal-is-news-news-is-kejriwal/


N P Singh is CEO, MSM
Longstanding Chief Operating Officer of Multi Screen Media, N P Singh, has been appointed CEO
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/n-p-singh-is-ceo-msm/


IAA calls for entries to Olive Crown Awards
The last date for entries for the first and only awards for creative excellence in communicating sustainability is January 31, 2014. Entry form can be downloaded from iaaindiachapter.org
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/iaa-calls-for-entries-to-olive-crown-awards/


More than just a new year greeting. On 40th anniv, RK Swamy Hansa to donate Rs 400 to charity on every click
The greeting carries with it an offer to donate Rs 400 to a charity on behalf of the recipients who are required to indicate their choice of donation to the cause of either education or healthcare by clicking on a button.
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/more-than-just-a-new-year-greeting-on-40th-anniv-rk-swamy-hansa-to-donate-rs-400-to-charity-on-every-click/

The 3-D Art Director. Ivan Arthur on Sudhir Deokar
Ivan Arthur, former National Creative Director of Hindustan Thompson Associates (what's now called JWT), pays tribute to Sudhir Deokar, his soulmate and creative chief of HTA's hyperactive Mumbai office. Mr Deokar passed away last week.

http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/the-3-d-art-director-ivan-arthur-on-sudhir-deokar/

Stories on 2nd Jan '14

What the Stars Foretell for 2014
Presenting a special forecast for MxMIndia readers from GaneshaSpeaks, India's #1 astro information service
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/what-the-stars-foretell-for-2014/

India to have 155 mn mobile internet users by March 2014: IAMAI-IMRB
The number of mobile internet users is going to reach 155 million in India by the end of March 2014 and 185 million by June 2014 maintaining a Q-o-Q growth of 20%, according to the 'Mobile Internet In India 2013' report released by the Internet & Mobile Association Of India (IAMAI) and IMRB International
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/india-to-have-155-mn-mobile-internet-users-by-march-2014-iamai-imrb/

DDB Mudra Group elevates Anurag Bansal to CFO
January 1 saw Director-Finance Anurag Bansal step into the shoes of CFO Dilip Upadhyaya
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/ddb-mudra-group-elevates-anurag-bansal-to-cfo/

Shubhranshu Singh now heads marketing at Star Sports
The former Visa India and South Asia Marketing Director has joined Star India as Vice President & Head Marketing - Sports
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/shubhranshu-singh-now-heads-marketing-at-star-sports/

NewsStand: How the various Page1s looked on Jan 1, 2014
A scan of the front pages of select national and regional dailies on January 1, 2014
http://www.mxmindia.com/2014/01/newsstand-how-the-various-page1s-looked-on-jan-1-2014/