At a total project cost of INR 118.8 crore, Fractal Analytics, an artificial intelligence startup based in Mumbai, has planned to construct India’s first large reasoning model (LRM). Fractal has proposed to the IndiaAI Mission that the government provide INR 76.6 crore in external finance for the project. A small model (2–7 billion parameters), a medium model (20–32 billion parameters), and a big state-of-the-art model (70 billion parameters) with up to 1 trillion training tokens will all be part of the planned LRM series. Srikanth Velamakanni, the inventor of Fractal, confirmed the news to a media outlet, saying that India should prioritise post-training models that are capable of “thinking and reasoning” as opposed to pre-trained models.
What are LRMs?
Large language models (LLMs) that specialise in advanced thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making activities are known as LRMs. Compared to OpenAI’s o1 and o3 reasoning models, Fractal’s proposed model is far larger in terms of size. DeepSeek R1 is now the largest reasoning model in the world, with 671 billion parameters. India might lead the world in AGI (artificial general intelligence) and catch up to nations like the US and China with the help of the planned LRM. The days of pre-training are finished, according to Velamakanni. Building systems that can operate with pre-trained models and complete challenging real-world tasks through improved planning and reasoning is currently the main focus of the race for stronger AI. According to Velamakanni, Fractal wants to incorporate Indian LLMs and create reasoning skills from scratch on open-source LLMs with permissive licences.
IndiaAI Mission
During the second round of bidding, which ended on March 15, the IndiaAI Mission received 120 applications to create sovereign AI foundation models. 187 applications have been submitted thus far, with 67 ideas having been received in the first round, as per various media reports. A senior government official told a prominent media outlet that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) hopes to approve at least a handful of the applications by the end of the month. In order to develop a world-class reasoning model in STEM, coding, medicine, and agentic systems, Fractal also intends to produce and make available a variety of datasets from top tests in India, including JEE Advanced, NEET-PG, National Olympiads, CAT, GATE, and others. Due to data saturation and performance plateaus, scaling train-time computation presents diminishing returns. Thus, according to the Mumbai-based advanced research firm, increasing inference-time computation is a cost-effective strategy and creates a quicker route to AGI for India.
The Indian Premier League, the most prestigious cricket tournament in the world, will soon begin after the Indian Women’s T20 League came to a close with RCB’s historic first title. The Indian Premier League is getting ready to deliver the excitement and thrills fans have come to expect in its 17th season. There may be other cricket leagues around the world, but none can compare to the Indian version in terms of scale, star power, sponsorship, etc. In a survey, brand valuation consultant Brand Finance stated that in 2024, the cumulative brand value of the Indian Premier League (IPL) surged to $12 billion, marking a 13% increase from the previous year. For the first time, four franchises, Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Kolkata Knight Riders surpassed a brand value of $100 million.
This year’s IPL saw a significant increase in its brand value, according to the survey. The reason for this is the large number of spectators in the stadiums, the increased consumption of IPL matches online and through other means, and the mega-media partnerships.
According to the consultant, the Chennai Super Kings are worth $122 million, making them the most valuable franchise brand in the Indian Premier League followed by Mumbai Indians with $119 million worth.
In today’s world, several things influence the monetary worth of an IPL fan’s preferred franchise. As a result, we’ll go over a few important aspects that influence the brand value of IPL clubs, a subject that followers of IPL often think about.
Among Shah Rukh Khan‘s followeres is his iconic open-arms posture, which has made him known globally. As Shah Rukh Khan enthusiastically cheers on his Kolkata Knight Riders squad and as they spot Sourav Ganguly, the prince of Kolkata, the 70k-strong crowd at Eden Gardens in Kolkata bursts into cheers.
A large social media following and endorsement partnerships with different brands are opportunities for celebrity owners. More sponsors are eager to purchase shirt space from the club as a result of the team’s rising popularity. As reported by a renowned media group, KKR emerged as the most lucrative IPL club in 2018, clocking in at 19.87%. The value of a brand doubles as its popularity and profitability rise.
Cricket fans associate CSK with MS Dhoni. MS Dhoni has been showered with an abundance of love and admiration by CSK fans. Since Dhoni became the public face of CSK, he has greatly increased the value of the team’s brand.
Other IPL franchises rely heavily on the big players to boost their brand value. Fans have come to anticipate that their favorites will consistently wear the same uniform from season to season. Keeping star players is crucial for building a strong brand.
Being on the pitch excites fans, which in turn boosts the team’s social media following. Brand recognition and, by extension, value, rise in tandem with increases in audience size, ticket sales, and merchandise sales.
Approaches to Advertising
Teams in the Indian Premier League use strategies including fan clubs, contests, player-fan interactions, team anthems, Twitter polls, and more to promote and expand their franchises. Over the years, marketers have come up with marketing strategies that aim to appeal to a certain demographic. The RCB Insider featuring Mr. Nags is one example of a marketing campaign. An archetypal Bengalurean, Mr. Nags, unexpectedly shows up at the RCB locker room or the filming location and spills the beans on delicious insider rumors.
RCB Insider with Mr. Nags, Ft. Virat Kohli | IPL 2023
Bhajji Blast with CSK is the latest in a series of innovative marketing campaigns that have captured the imagination of cricket fans. The show is a YouTube series created by Harbhajan Singh, a member of CSK. In it, he talks to other members of the band and learns interesting things, hears inspiring stories, and makes fun of themselves. Franchisees can increase their brand value through the use of these broadcasts by providing fans with an intimate peek into the everyday routines of players or teams.
The worth of a team’s brand is proportional to how well it performs. The worth of a team’s brand goes up when they continuously perform well. The great brand value of Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Manchester United is largely due to their continuous performance. Without a doubt, more fans, sponsors, and confidence among supporters may be attracted to cricket matches with regular pyrotechnics.
In addition to the team’s terrible performance in almost every IPL season, several other things bring disrepute to Delhi Capitals. Teams like CSK, MI, and KKR, on the other hand, have been incredibly valuable due to their regularly impressive results in the IPL.
FAQs
Which IPL team was the most valuable franchise in 2024?
Chennai Super Kings was worth $122 million, making them the most valuable franchise brand in the Indian Premier League 2024.
Which IPL team was the least valuable franchise in 2024?
Lucknow Super Giants was worth $60 million, making them the least valuable franchise brand in IPL 2024.
Who is the captain of the Mumbai Indians team?
Hardik Pandya is the captain of Mumbai Indians team in IPL 2025.
Which IPL team has most fans in India?
The Mumbai Indians (MI) are widely considered to have the most fans in India. Their large fan base is attributed to the team’s consistent success in the IPL, with multiple championship wins, as well as their strong presence in major cities across the country.
At a recent internal town hall meeting, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy highlighted a major change in the company’s promotion strategy, stressing that growing big teams will no longer be the route to promotion at the e-commerce behemoth. Jassy informed staff that Amazon is actively altering its perspective on promotions, emphasising that the best leaders are those that do the most with the least number of resources needed to complete the task, according to a recording of last week’s all-hands meeting that a media house was able to access.
Changing the Entire Dynamics of Promotion
The CEO clarifies that building a massive workforce and domain is not the path to success at Amazon. Having a large team is not rewarded. Amazon wants to do a lot more things and be resourceful. The CEO’s remarks are in line with Amazon’s recently concluded plan to minimise bureaucracy and management layers by increasing the proportion of individual contributors to managers by 15% throughout its organisations. Every new project shouldn’t require 50 or more people to complete, Jassy told staff members, pointing out that some of Amazon Web Services’ most popular products were first introduced with teams of only a dozen individuals.
Meritocracy over Bureaucracy
Meritocracy is more important than bureaucracy, according to the Amazon CEO, who also stated that employee charisma is not a factor. It doesn’t matter if they are adept at sideways or upward management. What the company does for its clients is what counts. It’s what the business rewards. Recognising the fierce competition Amazon faces from the most technologically proficient, most hungry businesses, including startups operating around the clock, Jassy also asked staff to act like owners and move quickly. “What would I do if this were my company?” Jassy asked the employees. By the way, it’s your business. This encompasses our entire organisation,” urging people to stay cognisant of both internal objectives and external advancements.
Amazon Plans to Eliminate 14,000 Managerial Positions
By early 2025, Amazon plans to let off 14,000 administrative staff members as part of a comprehensive restructuring strategy meant to boost productivity and cut expenses. It is anticipated that Amazon will save between $2.1 billion and $3.6 billion a year as a result of the decision, which represents a 13% drop in the company’s global management personnel. Following recent layoffs in Amazon’s sustainability and communications departments, this most recent round of layoffs represents a larger change in the company’s corporate structure. The choice is in keeping with CEO Andy Jassy’s continuous attempts to reduce organisational complexity and streamline processes. In an effort to improve operational efficiency and speed up decision-making, Amazon intends to raise the proportion of individual contributors to managers by at least 15% by the first quarter of 2025. Jassy has been outspoken about cutting back on bureaucratic layers that impede operations, according to sources Business Insider reported. This supports his goal of having Amazon operate more like a quick-thinking company.
India plans to eliminate the Google tax, a 6% equalisation levy levied on online advertising services provided by Google and Meta, starting on April 1. The action is probably intended to appease US President Donald Trump, who has threatened to impose retaliatory tariffs on nations that, starting on April 2, impose digital taxes on US internet businesses. Nirmala Sitharaman, the finance minister, introduced 59 amendments to the Finance Bill in the Parliament on Monday, including the clause. In order to encourage them to migrate to India, the other major revision suggests eliminating the phrase “indirectly” from a clause controlling offshore funds. In connection with search and seizure evaluation, a new word, “total undisclosed income”, is introduced in another modification.
India is Strengthening its Partnership With US
The above development makes it clear that the sole purpose of a search and seizure procedure is to tax unreported income. To allow the Income Tax Department to make modifications while processing a return, a new subclause is being proposed. The planned change to eliminate the equalisation levy follows trade negotiations between the US and India, with New Delhi seeking to avoid the impending announcement of reciprocal duties on April 2. In addition, the government has suggested eliminating the income tax benefits that these businesses currently enjoy in place of the equalisation levy. To please Trump, some other nations, like the UK, are also thinking about eliminating the internet tax.
Experts believe that the government of India (GoI) made a wise decision in eliminating the equalisation charge because the revenue was not very high, and, at the same time, it was raising concerns for the US government by giving the impression that there were “non-tariff” tax obstacles. They added that India might use this action as leverage in talks with the US on trade tariffs. In addition to providing taxpayers with predictability, the ruling allays partner countries’ worries about the levy’s initial unilaterality, including those of the US.
Amendments in Offshore Funds
Additionally, the government has suggested changes to offshore fund managers’ Section 9A. According to the Finance Bill, Indian citizens could not “directly or indirectly” participate in or invest in more than 5% of the corpus. A media report on February 10 stated that the phrase “indirectly” appeared to be impeding foreign fund managers’ desire to move to India. Many trade analysts feel that the proposed amendments to the Finance Bill, 2025, are largely clarifying in nature, in line with the government’s mission to address doubts and issues being faced by the taxpayers and businesses at large.
With the 17th season of the world’s premier cricket league, “The Indian Premiere League,” set to begin on March 22, 2024, cricket fever is in full swing in India. All around the world, cricket fans gather around their screens for almost 60 days to watch matches during this massive event, which is regarded throughout the country as cricket’s biggest festival. India has the world’s largest population and is home to countless cricket fans, so it’s no surprise that the country ranks first in IPL viewing. The figure indicates that 426 million people watched the IPL on television and via over-the-top services last year. Star Sports, the official television broadcaster of the 2023 Indian Premier League, reported an incredible 6230 crore minutes of viewing time over the first ten matches. With a total of 30.7 crore viewers over the first 10 matches, the broadcaster attracted 23% more people than the previous IPL season. According to JioCinema, the service had 5.5 billion unique video views in its first week of existence. The previous record-breaking number of concurrent viewers was achieved on April 12, 2023, during the match between the Chennai Super Kings and the Rajasthan Royals, with an impressive 22 million.
Brands have been able to establish a unique identity and gain unparalleled exposure through the Indian Premier League (IPL) for many years. Online and over-the-top (OTT) advertising during the Indian Premier League has become an absolute must for most consumer firms. IPL gives companies the power to influence how consumers think and feel. A lot of companies, especially those in the consumer goods sector, see a spike in sales around this time of year. During the IPL season, brands reached their sales peak and accomplished 30% to 40% of their yearly sales objective. By identifying with such a widely-viewed platform, brands can influence how consumers see them and give dealers more confidence when pitching their wares.
With a massive and devoted fan base, the Indian Premier League is among the world’s most prestigious sports leagues. In order to connect with these fans, IPL teams have developed creative marketing campaigns.
A new age has begun for sports marketing in the digital age, and an omni-channel strategy is now crucial. In contrast to conventional broadcasting, today’s fan engagement strategies necessitate a unified integration of in-stadium, off-site, and digital elements. This implies that the IPL and WPL need to make sure that fans can interact with their favourite teams and players in a variety of ways, from in-stadium experiences to online forums and social media. In order to increase fan engagement and loyalty, leagues should make sure that all mediums provide a consistent and engaging experience.
Personalised content is the lifeblood of successful fan connection. Fans nowadays are looking for more personalised experiences, ones that take into account and honour their unique emotions and preferences. Leagues such as the IPL and WPL are able to provide fans with better experiences through data analytics and targeted communication, allowing them to access customised material and engage in more meaningful conversations. Personalised engagement, whether it’s providing unique access to behind-the-scenes footage or adapting match-day experiences to fan preferences, fosters a stronger emotional bond between fans and their beloved teams, increasing support and devotion.
Assuming the Perspective of the Viewer
Online and offline viewership of the IPL has skyrocketed after the COVID-19 relaxation. In order to reach the widest possible audience, brands are capitalising on this fact by developing tactics that cater to consumers’ mentalities. The IPL’s massive viewership provides a great opportunity for the business to work with influential people, run effective campaigns (live or online), test the waters with rivals, and reach a wider audience. The majority of viewers are glued to their phones during the IPL, so marketers may take advantage of that to their advantage by marketing themselves in an unsettling way while also generating a lot of buzz on social media.
Brands can make sure that fans can connect with their favourite teams and sports no matter where they are—at the stadium, offline, or online—and that this fosters a feeling of community. Sports leagues such as the IPL and WPL have a lot of room to grow their fan bases and reinvent fan interaction with the help of omnichannel engagement in sports marketing. Leagues can achieve more profound resonance with their fans by embracing personalisation, engaging experiences, and a smooth integration of offline and online activities. To ensure that the love for the game goes beyond the pitch and leaves a legacy of fan devotion as we continue to progress in this digital age, it will be crucial to focus on novel engagement tactics and meaningful relationships.
Social Impact: Inspiring Future Generations
Beyond its impact on sports, the IPL has sparked significant social change and inspired millions. Through initiatives like the IPL Foundation, the league has supported causes such as education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability. These efforts have created a lasting impact, promoting social responsibility and community development. The IPL’s influence continues to grow, making a positive difference in various sectors and leaving a legacy well beyond the cricket field.
The Indian Premier League (IPL) was founded in 2008 by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) as a professional Twenty20 cricket league. It revolutionized cricket by combining sports and entertainment, attracting global players and significant commercial investments. Over the years, the IPL has grown in stature, becoming one of the most-watched and lucrative cricket leagues in the world.
What are IPL 2025 dates?
The 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) is scheduled from March 22 to May 25, 2025. The tournament will feature 74 matches, with the playoffs commencing on May 20.
Who is the most expensive player of IPL 2025?
In the IPL 2025 auction, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant became the most expensive player, joining Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) for INR 27 crore.
Endorsement is a form of brand communication in which a celebrity works as the brand’s spokesman, certifying the business’s claim and stance by lending his or her personality, popularity, social standing, or industry experience to the brand. In a market with a lot of local, regional, and international companies, celebrity endorsement was once regarded as a good way to stand out.
In cricket, Kannanur Lokesh Rahul is a household name. He has recently achieved recognition for both good and negative reasons, but happily, things did not turn sour for him. Rahul has been a brand ambassador of various brands in different sectors because of his strong yet calm personality. On that note, let us jump right into the list of brands that KL Rahul endorses.
KL Rahul, the Indian cricket star, has teamed up with Metaman not just as a brand ambassador but also as an investor! Known for his love of style and fragrances, Rahul is now part of Metaman’s journey as they launch a premium perfume collection.
Metaman, which started as a men’s jewelry brand, is now expanding into high-quality, luxurious, yet affordable perfumes. Rahul, who has always been passionate about fashion and wellness, sees this as more than just a business move—it’s a long-term commitment.
With his sharp style and global exposure, Rahul aims to bring world-class fragrances to India.
Police Lifestyle
Police Lifestyle – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
In November 2024, lifestyle brand Police announced a two-year partnership with Indian cricketer KL Rahul, appointing him as their brand ambassador for India and the Middle East. This collaboration is part of the Police’s “Audacity Wanted” campaign, which celebrates individuality and self-expression.
As part of this partnership, Police has launched the Police x KL Rahul accessories collection, featuring leather goods designed for the modern man. The campaign showcases Rahul in various visuals, offering a localized perspective on the “Audacity Wanted” concept.
This collaboration inspires individuals to embrace their uniqueness and make bold statements in every aspect of life, reflecting KL Rahul’s journey and the Police’s commitment to authentic self-expression.
Dream11
Dream11 – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
KL Rahul, the renowned Indian cricketer, has been featured in several Dream11 advertising campaigns over the years. In 2024, during the Indian Premier League (IPL), he appeared in a humorous advertisement alongside fellow cricketers. This ad showcased a light-hearted family dinner scenario, highlighting the playful dynamics between the cricketing stars and the Bollywood actor, which resonated well with the audience.
These collaborations between KL Rahul and Dream11 emphasize his significant presence in the cricketing community while showcasing his appeal in mainstream media, bridging the gap between sports and entertainment.
BharatPe
BharatPe – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
Indian cricketer KL Rahul has been associated with BharatPe, a prominent fintech company in India, through various collaborations focusing on empowering merchants and promoting secure digital transactions.
KL Rahul actively promoted BharatPe’s services on his social media platforms. In February 2025, he shared a reel emphasizing the importance of strong defense in cricket and payments, highlighting BharatPe UPI’s secure transactions.
Additionally, in January 2025, he posted about trusting BharatPe UPI for secure transactions, backed by BharatPe Shield’s free protection cover of up to ₹5,000.
XYXX Crew
XYXX – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
Indian cricketer KL Rahul has collaborated with men’s innerwear and comfort wear brand XYXX in multiple capacities, including as an investor, brand ambassador, and central figure in several of their advertising campaigns.
Moreover, he became both an investor and the first-ever brand ambassador for XYXX. This partnership aims to leverage Rahul’s popularity to expand XYXX’s customer base, strengthen its online presence, and enter new markets. The collaboration reflects a shared ethos, with Rahul embodying the brand’s belief in trusting one’s instincts.
In May 2024, XYXX released a campaign featuring Rahul in a dystopian narrative where men are physically shackled by uncomfortable underwear. The campaign promotes XYXX’s products as a liberating alternative, encouraging men to break free from discomfort.
Carriall
Carriall – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
Carriall, a brand renowned for its innovative smart travel luggage, appointed Indian cricketer KL Rahul as its brand ambassador. This collaboration aims to blend elegance, sophistication, and practicality, aligning with Carriall’s product philosophy and Rahul’s stylish persona.
With this partnership, Carriall sought to promote KL Rahul’s widespread appeal across India to expand its offline presence. While the brand has primarily operated online, Rahul’s endorsement is expected to facilitate a stronger foothold in offline markets nationwide, enhancing brand visibility and accessibility.
Red Bull
Red Bull – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
KL Rahul’s collaboration with Red Bull has been a significant aspect of his cricketing journey, offering him platforms to showcase his talent and connect with fans. Red Bull has facilitated various interactive sessions with KL Rahul, including live interviews and Q&A sessions, allowing fans to gain insights into his preparations, mentality, and personal anecdotes.
These engagements have strengthened the connection between Rahul and his supporters, reflecting Red Bull’s commitment to bringing athletes closer to their audiences.Through these collaborations, Red Bull has played a significant role in glorifying KL Rahul’s presence both on and off the field, supporting his journey and enabling deeper fan interactions.
HyugaLife
HyugaLife – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
Indian cricketer KL Rahul expanded his entrepreneurial ventures by investing in and becoming a brand ambassador for HyugaLife.com, a health and wellness platform offering a diverse range of products, including supplements, health foods, and sports nutrition.
Rahul’s collaboration with HyugaLife aims to inspire individuals across India to prioritize their well-being and adopt healthier lifestyles. These initiatives reflect KL Rahul’s dedication to fostering a health-conscious culture in India and HyugaLife’s commitment to providing authentic, high-quality wellness products to its customers.
Nayara Energy
Nayara Energy – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
In April 2024, Nayara Energy, a prominent downstream energy company, launched its annual ‘Mahabachat Utsav’ campaign with celebrated Indian cricketer K.L. Rahul as the face of the initiative. This collaboration aimed to offer significant consumer savings on petrol purchases at Nayara’s extensive network of over 6,300 fuel stations across India.
This collaboration underscores Nayara Energy’s dedication to enhancing customer experiences and rewarding loyalty while also leveraging K.L. Rahul’s popularity to strengthen the campaign’s reach and impact.
Aditya Birla Capital
Aditya Birla Finance – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
Aditya Birla Finance Ltd (ABFL) launched the ‘Ab Kahani Badlegi’ campaign, featuring Indian cricketer KL Rahul as its brand ambassador. This collaboration aims to inspire individuals to overcome challenges and achieve their aspirations, aligning with ABFL’s mission to empower people through tailored financial solutions.
The ‘Ab Kahani Badlegi’ campaign portrays ABFL as a financial powerhouse, offering products and services such as personal loans, business loans, SME loans, and loans against property with minimal documentation, faster disbursement, and a Flexi loan facility with a 100% online process that enable consumers to realize their long-held dreams. This nationwide effort, released on television and online platforms, aims to reach people of all ages.
Too Yumm
Too Yumm – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
KL Rahul collaborated with Too Yumm, a popular healthy snacking brand, as part of its efforts to promote guilt-free indulgence. The collaboration aligns with Rahul’s image as a fitness-conscious athlete who maintains a balanced diet while enjoying tasty snacks.
Too Yumm, known for offering baked, not fried, snacks, has previously partnered with sports personalities to highlight its health benefits. Rahul’s association with the brand likely includes social media promotions, advertisements, and possibly campaign endorsements that emphasize the idea of snacking smart while maintaining an active lifestyle.
This partnership further strengthens Too Yumm’s appeal to young, health-conscious consumers who look up to athletes like KL Rahul for fitness inspiration.
KL Rahul, the renowned Indian cricketer, has collaborated with SG Cricket to introduce the Signature KLR x SG collection, a premium line of cricket equipment and gear. This collection features top-quality English willow bats, including the KLR Series, KLR Ultimate, KLR Xtreme, and KLR Edition, each designed to enhance performance on the field.
The bats are crafted from the finest English willow, traditionally shaped, and equipped with imported cane handles for superior grip and control. Additionally, the collection offers batting gloves and pads, all tailored to meet the high standards expected by professional cricketers.
KnobbX
Indian cricketer KL Rahul partnered with KnobbX, an apparel brand specializing in modern accessories. As a brand ambassador, Rahul has been featured in various advertising campaigns promoting KnobbX’s products.
This collaboration aligns with Rahul’s trendy persona, making him a suitable representative for nobbX’s contemporary designs.
This partnership is one among several in Rahul’s portfolio, reflecting his influence in the fashion and lifestyle sectors.
Hublot
Hublot – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
KL Rahul, the renowned Indian cricketer, has been associated with Hublot, the luxury Swiss watch brand, as a brand ambassador since June 2023. This collaboration aligns Rahul with Hublot’s legacy of precision and elegance, reflecting his sophisticated and stylish image.
Hublot’s involvement in cricket includes a partnership with the International Cricket Council (ICC), serving as the official timekeeper for major ICC. This association emphasizes Hublot’s commitment to the sport and its athletes, with KL Rahul representing the brand’s dedication to excellence both on and off the field.
KL Rahul, the prominent Indian cricketer, has been associated with ARC – Athlete Recovery, a company specializing in sports recovery technology. Founded in 2023 by former Karnataka Ranji player David Mathias, ARC focuses on providing innovative recovery solutions, such as portable ice baths, to enhance athletic performance. Rahul was an early adopter of ARC’s vision and has been a significant supporter of their mission to revolutionize athlete recovery.
Realme
Realme – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
Realme, a rapidly growing smartphone brand, appointed cricketer KL Rahul as the brand ambassador for its smartphone category. This collaboration was designed to align with Realme’s youthful and dynamic image, leveraging Rahul’s popularity and style to resonate with a broader audience.
As part of this partnership, KL Rahul became the face of the Realme 9 Pro+ 5G campaign, embodying the brand’s “Dare to Leap” philosophy. The campaign highlighted the smartphone’s advanced features, including its powerful performance and stylish design, aiming to appeal to tech-savvy consumers seeking both functionality and aesthetics.
boAt
boAt – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
KL Rahul, the renowned Indian cricketer, has been associated with boAt, a leading Indian audio and wearable brand, as a brand ambassador. In this role, he has actively participated in promoting boAt’s range of products, including their audio devices and smartwatches. This collaboration is part of boAt’s broader strategy to partner with prominent figures in the sports industry to enhance its brand presence
Zenovit
Zenovit – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
KL Rahul has signed a new sponsorship contract. He is now the face of the Zenovit dietary supplement line. Raveena Tandon, a Bollywood actress, had previously sponsored Zenovit. KL Rahul will star in a TV commercial for the brand that will be released soon. Due to Zenovit’s lack of social media presence, it does not appear that a digital advertising strategy will be implemented.
Puma
Puma – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
Rahul will be seen endorsing Puma’s latest product lines in the performance and sport style categories through various brand advertisements as part of the contract.
Choosing to solely collaborate with a sportswear brand is a critical decision, and we have hit it out of the park with this collaboration,” Rahul said in a statement about the partnership with Puma.
As a cricketer, I am always trying to stay one step ahead of the game, both on and off the field, and Puma, the ever-faster brand, shares my ambitions and ideals. Working with Puma and joining their fantastic roster of athletes and superstars will be incredible,” he continued.
“Rahul is a natural fit for the brand due to his exceptional performance on the field, effortless style off the field, and propensity for fitness”. His demeanour is completely in line with Puma’s brand approach, and we are thrilled to be working with him and to begin this new partnership. Puma India MD Abhishek Ganguly said.
Cure.fit
Cure.fit – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
KL RAHUL, a dashing Indian cricketer, has been appointed as a brand ambassador for Cure.fit. Cure.fit is a Bengaluru-based health and fitness start-up. Rahul will support cure.fit’s new CULT brand, which is a chain of high-end fitness centres, in order to broaden the brand’s reach. According to rumours, Cure.fit and the cricketer have agreed on a cash and equity deal.
Rahul has wowed everyone with his batting prowess and hard ethic, and he has made an impact on both the home and international circuits. Cornerstone Sport, a brand consultant and talent representation agency, brokered the arrangement.
Cricketer K L Rahul remarked of his partnership with Cult.fit, “I am immensely thrilled about my collaboration with Cult.fit.” As a sportsperson, fitness is important not only for improving on-field performance but also for improving overall health. Cult.fit’s machine-free workouts are impressive, and anyone who wants to get in shape may do it without using a machine.
In collaboration with retail partner Zeko online Pvt. Ltd., Indian opener KL Rahul established Gully, a “cult streetwear brand.” In the beginning, the brand’s products will be offered on one of India’s biggest online marketplaces as well as the Zeko online website. Rahul is also one of the brand’s co-owners.
T-shirts, joggers, and shorts will be the first items to be released, followed by jeans and sweatshirts later this year. Gully’s primary values are street culture, hip-hop, rap, and street sports. In Western countries, streetwear labels are immensely popular. Currently, there is no competition in the Indian market.
When it comes to creating and building brands, our idea is to first discover a market gap and then locate the proper partners with whom to collaborate. KL Rahul is one of the most fashionable cricketers and embodies the Gully spirit. Another important factor was in-house manufacturing, which provided the flexibility and agility needed for a new brand to prosper, according to Jogesh Lulla, COO, Cornerstone Sport.
RBI
RBI – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
As the 2018 Indian Premier League (IPL), India’s biggest cricket extravaganza, draws to a close with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) claiming the title, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) took advantage of the media frenzy to promote financial literacy.
Interestingly, during the event, a commercial depicting renowned batsman KL Rahul aired on TV channels.
Furthermore, he discussed the rules as well as the RBI’s new no-frills savings account system.
The cricketer, on the other hand, did not receive any compensation for his appearance in the commercial. However, because he is an RBI employee, they did not impose any fees.
NUMI
Numi Paris – KL Rahul Brand Endorsements
Actor Athiya Shetty and Ace Cricketer KL Rahul have been named as brand ambassadors for NUMI Paris, a French luxury eyewear brand that has recently arrived in India. NUMI Paris has enlisted the help of the skilled and beautiful actor, as well as the successful cricket player, to promote their elegantly handcrafted eyewear collection.
I am ecstatic to be welcomed into the NUMI Paris family,” NUMI has all of the qualities that I look for in a brand when I indulge. And I’m delighted to say that NUMI is a natural extension of my personality KL Rahul said.
FAQs
What is full name of KL Rahul?
Kannur Lokesh Rahul
Which major brands does KL Rahul currently endorse?
KL Rahul endorses a diverse range of brands, including Puma, Red Bull, BharatPe, Realme and more.
Does KL Rahul endorse only Indian brands, or also international ones?
He endorses both Indian and international brands, reflecting his widespread appeal.
This article has been contributed by Prachi Mehta – Neuro Wellness Coach.
What success can vary from one person to another? It’s a highly individualized and changing definition, determined by personal experience, beliefs, and the background in which we’re raised. Behind how we are successful is our brain and its neural circuitry, developed since childhood and continually changing as we live.”. Since the moment we are born, our brain starts to wire itself according to what we experience.
Neural pathways, the networks that control how our brain communicates and processes information, are wired by our environment, society, and our internal thought processes. This wiring has a big impact on how we define success and how we tackle challenges. For most, these neural patterns become habitual, dictating the way we think, act, and respond. But for business owners, this wiring can be a strength or a limitation.
The secret to overcoming these mind barriers is to rewire the brain. Rewiring isn’t about becoming a different person—it’s about letting go of old patterns of thought and replacing them with new connections that foster growth, resilience, and achievement.
What Does Happen When You Rewire Your Brain?
When you rewire your brain, you’re essentially retraining it to think, act, and react in a manner that’s in your interest. Your brain has been programmed by years of experience, and those neural circuits are well embedded. But here’s the positive news: your brain is pliable. Neuroplasticity, the capacity of the brain to reorganize and create new neural pathways, allows you to establish new pathways at any point in life. It doesn’t matter how old you are, or when you begin; with persistence, you can establish new thought patterns.
Consider it similar to building muscle. If you exercise for a day, you won’t notice any changes. But if you stick to a routine for weeks or months, your body does start to alter. The same is true of your brain. If you make a conscious effort to train your brain to respond differently, it will start to change. Over time and with persistence, you will find that your reactions to problems become more positive, your attitude changes and your skill at taking measured risks increases.
One of the most potent rewiring tools available is Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). NLP is a series of strategies that can be used to re-pattern your thoughts, behaviours, and emotional reactions. With NLP, you are able to start “wiping out” undesirable old memories or associations and install new, positive ones. It clears the way for mental blocks, dissipates self-doubt, and fosters an attitude favourable to growth and success.
By applying NLP methods, you are able to reframe how you perceive your past experiences, releasing restrictive beliefs that have possibly influenced your definition of success. As new pathways in the brain are created, the previous ones gradually erode, and you start to think and act in ways that respond to your new desires and objectives.
How Rewiring Transforms You
As you start to rewire your brain, you begin to feel a fundamental change in the way you think about success. You’ll find that you confront obstacles with more creativity, optimism, and resilience. Your confidence boosts, and you begin making choices that bring you closer to achieving your goals with clarity and focus.
This process doesn’t happen overnight. Just like building muscle, rewiring your brain requires consistent effort. But once those new neural pathways begin to take root, you’ll find that the mental shifts become more natural. You’ll feel more aligned with your purpose, and your sense of success will grow exponentially.
For business people, this revolution is imperative. Your mind dictates how you do business, how you approach risks, and how you treat your staff. A rewired mind translates into becoming more flexible, more creative, and more stress-resistant under adversity.
The Power of Consistency
Consistency is the secret to rewiring your brain. Like how it takes frequent visits to the gym in order to have muscles, you must constantly employ the mental routines that aid development. The more you repeat the routines of positive thinking, empowerment, and toughness, the stronger your new wiring gets.
By making small, intentional changes to your daily routine—whether through mindfulness, visualization, or using NLP techniques—you can gradually shift your mindset. Over time, these new thought patterns will replace the old ones, and you’ll begin to see significant changes in your life and business.
Conclusion
Rewiring your brain is an empowering tool for business owners who want to tap into their full potential. By liberating yourself from old patterns of thinking and establishing new neural pathways, you can build the mindset necessary to succeed in today’s competitive business environment. With the strength of neuroplasticity and tools such as NLP, you can rewire your thoughts, behaviours, and reactions, making them serve you instead of sabotaging you.
Success is not a place—it’s a thought process that begins from within. By taking control of how your brain works, you have the ability to create long-term change and accomplish your highest aspirations. Begin rewiring your brain today, and see your business and life change in ways you never believed possible.
Hotels today are more than just places to stay, they are immersive experiences that shape guest perceptions through aesthetics. From grand lobbies to carefully curated artwork, the design of a hotel influences emotions, relaxation, and overall satisfaction. The strategic use of art, architecture, and interior design helps hotels create a distinct identity, setting them apart from competitors.
Sanjeev Nanda, a hospitality leader known for his expertise in luxury hotel experiences, emphasizes that design is not just about beauty but also about creating memorable and engaging atmospheres. “A well-designed hotel tells a story, evokes emotions, and ensures guests leave with lasting impressions,” says Nanda.
The Impact of Art on Hotel Branding
Art is a powerful tool that enhances hotel branding, making spaces visually appealing and unique. Carefully curated art collections, murals, and sculptures contribute to a hotel’s identity, giving it a personality that resonates with guests. A study from the Cornell University School of Hotel Administration found that hotels with unique art collections are often seen as more creative and prestigious.
Many hotels collaborate with local artists to showcase cultural authenticity, ensuring that their aesthetic reflects the location’s history and heritage. Some luxury establishments even host rotating art exhibitions to offer fresh experiences to returning guests. This approach not only enriches the ambiance but also builds a stronger connection with visitors.
Nanda states, “Art in hospitality is more than decoration; it is an experience that tells a story and connects guests to the space. By integrating art into branding, hotels can create an emotional link with their visitors, making them feel part of something special.”
How Architecture and Interior Design Shape Guest Experience
A well-designed guest experience is crucial for building customer loyalty, boosting revenue, and enhancing a business’s reputation. A positive experience encourages repeat visits, increases spending on additional services, and leads to favourable online reviews, which attract new customers. In a competitive market, exceptional guest experiences help businesses stand out and create lasting impressions. The structure and layout of a hotel play a vital role in shaping guest perceptions, with elements like lighting, spatial design, and furniture placement influencing mood and comfort. Open, airy designs evoke a sense of freedom, while enclosed spaces offer intimacy and exclusivity. Choices between minimalism and opulence also shape guest expectations, some prefer sleek, modern aesthetics, while others appreciate intricate and grand interiors.
Luxury hotels often invest in custom furniture, statement chandeliers, and grand entrances to create a striking first impression. “The first few moments a guest spends in a hotel lobby set the tone for their entire stay,” says Sanjeev Nanda. “Every design choice, from the height of ceilings to the material of the floors, plays a role in defining that experience.”
The Business Benefits of Aesthetic Investments
Investing in art and design is not just about aesthetics; it has tangible business benefits. Visually stunning hotels naturally attract social media attention, leading to organic marketing and word-of-mouth promotion.
A unique architectural style or carefully designed interiors can also justify premium pricing, as guests are willing to pay more for an aesthetically enriching experience. Moreover, hotels that focus on strong visual branding see higher guest retention rates, as visitors are more likely to return to spaces, they find beautiful and comfortable. In today’s competitive hospitality industry, a hotel that stands out visually will always have a competitive edge and design is an investment with long-term returns.
Art, architecture, and design are fundamental to shaping a hotel’s character and guest experience. Beyond decoration, they serve as strategic assets that enhance branding, attract guests, and boost revenue. As Sanjeev Nanda aptly puts it, “Design is not an afterthought; it is the heart of a hotel’s identity. The right aesthetic choices can turn a simple stay into an unforgettable journey.” Hoteliers looking to remain competitive should rethink their approach to design, ensuring their spaces are not only functional but also inspiring and emotionally engaging.
Apna Mart, an omnichannel grocery and FMCG retail chain has secured INR 214.5 crore (around $25 million) in a new funding round. The investment includes a mix of equity and debt, with Fundamentum Partnership Fund and Accel leading the round. Existing investors also participated.
According to regulatory filings, the company raised INR 176.5 crore ($20.5 million) by issuing 6,342 Series B compulsory convertible preference shares, priced at INR 2,78,402 each. An additional INR 38 crore ($4.5 million) was secured through 3,800 debentures.
Fundamentum invested INR 84 crore, while Accel contributed INR 60.88 crore. Other investors, including Peak XV Partners (INR 17.4 crore), Sparrow Capital (INR 4 crore), and funds such as 2 AM Ventures, Disruptors Capital, and Alteria, also took part.
Following this round, Accel India now holds a 20.91% stake in Apna Mart, making it the company’s largest external shareholder. Peak XV Partners and Fundamentum own 13.06% and 11.39%, respectively. Titan Capital remains one of the early backers.
Expanding Footprint with Franchise Model
Founded by Abhishek Singh and Chetan Garg, Apna Mart operates through a hybrid model of quick commerce and physical retail. The company promises grocery and FMCG deliveries within 15 minutes while also expanding its network of franchise-run stores.
Currently, Apna Mart has a presence in 14 cities, including Ranchi, Hazaribagh, Bilaspur, and more. The franchise approach has helped the company scale efficiently while keeping costs in check.
Growth, Losses, and Future Plans
For the fiscal year ending March 2024, Apna Mart’s operating revenue increased 85.6% year-on-year, reaching INR 59.6 crore in FY24 from INR 32 crore in FY23. However, its losses also widened by 51.4%, standing at INR 33 crore in FY24 from INR 21.8 crore in FY23.
The recently raised capital will be used for business expansion and general operations. As competition in quick commerce heats up with players like Blinkit, Swiggy Instamart, and Zepto, Apna Mart aims to strengthen its position in the market.
About Apna Mart
Apna Mart is a grocery and FMCG retail chain in India that operates both online and through physical stores. Founded in 2021 by Abhishek Singh and Chetan Garg, the company focuses on serving Tier II and III cities. It offers 15-minute grocery delivery through its online platform while also running franchise stores to reach more customers. This mix of online and offline shopping helps Apna Mart serve smaller towns efficiently and build trust in local communities.
According to reports, Samsung is developing a new line of extended reality (XR) smart glasses. Similar to the recently disclosed Project Moohan headgear, Google’s Android XR platform is anticipated to power these smart glasses. As the XR headset is anticipated to be more complicated to use in contrast, Samsung wants to provide more comfort and versatility with the smart glasses, according to a report by Android Authority. Samsung may introduce both the Project Moohan headset and the much-anticipated XR smart glasses during a joint launch event later this year, as per the various media reports.
Codename “Haean”
It has been revealed that Samsung has been working on their XR smart glasses under the codename “Haean.” The company’s primary goal seems to be making the device as comfortable as possible by customising it to match various face shapes, which will make it easier for a larger audience to utilise. The Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 Plus Gen 2 CPU, which is probably also powering the Project Moohan headgear, is slated to power the upcoming Samsung smart glasses. According to the media citings, the glasses might possibly have a 155mAh battery and a built-in 12MP camera. Furthermore, the gadget might have several sensors to monitor user movements, which could allow for gesture control and fitness tracking features.
Special Features to Look Forward to
AI integration is anticipated to be a major feature of the Haean glasses, with Samsung most likely depending on Google’s Gemini assistant, which is comparable to Meta’s AI-powered Ray-Ban smart glasses. According to reports, Samsung is getting ready to release a first batch of 500,000 handsets at the upcoming Unpacked event in July. Although Google has made references to its own Gemini-powered smart glasses, no formal release date has been disclosed. Samsung’s foray into the smart glasses industry may have a big impact on how Android-powered XR devices develop in the future. Whether or not the device will have a display is still unknown. However, Google said that the Android XR platform will enable glasses without screens when it was unveiled. It is anticipated that Gemini AI will be essential to system navigation if Samsung’s smart glasses adopt this strategy. Users would get help from the AI assistant with things like directions, conversation translation, and smartphone message summarisation.
One of the Main Obstacles is Affordability
Although smart glasses have a lot of potential, there are obstacles to their widespread use, chief among them being cost. Historically, many firms, particularly smaller ones, have been unable to afford smart glasses due to high production costs. This obstacle is acknowledged by many experts, who stress that in order to be widely adopted, smart glasses must be “light enough” to fit in the pocket. Industry giants like Intel are actively working on creating affordable solutions to alleviate the affordability issue. Over time, price reductions due to mass production, economies of scale, and technological developments could make smart glasses a feasible choice for a wider range of organisations.
