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Category: Awards & Recognition

  • Candlelight Concerts in Pune: A Mesmerizing Journey Lighting Up Maharashtra’s Nights


    Candlelight Concerts

    PUNE: After captivating audiences in Mumbai, Delhi, and Ahmedabad, the globally renowned Candlelight Concerts brought their mesmerizing blend of live music and candlelit ambiance to Pune. The series made a spectacular debut in the Queen of the Deccan with the “Best Movie Soundtracks” performance on August 30th at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Pune Kharadi.

    Following the successful launch, the immersive concert series will continue to enchant Pune audiences with a piano tribute to Coldplay’s greatest hits on September 27th and 28th, followed by a tribute to The Beatles on October 18th. Each performance promises to transport audiences to a world where music and candlelight intertwine to create an unforgettable experience.

    Deepa Bajaj, Country Manager of Live Your City India, expressed her excitement about the expansion to Pune: “We are delighted with the overwhelming response Candlelight Concerts have received here. Our mission is to craft extraordinary experiences that connect with the local community. By partnering with talented local artists and choosing distinctive venues, we aim to make classical music and timeless favorites accessible to everyone. We look forward to bringing the Candlelight experience to more cities across the state in the coming months.”

    Produced by Live Your City, a division of Fever Labs Inc., Candlelight Concerts continues to broaden its reach in India by collaborating with local talent and curating a diverse array of musical experiences, ranging from classical masterpieces to contemporary hits. With the successful launch in Pune, Candlelight Concerts is poised to further expand its footprint across Maharashtra and beyond, making live music more accessible and enjoyable for music lovers throughout the region.

    Upcoming Programming in Pune:

    Candlelight: Best Movie Soundtracks

    ●        Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel, Pune Kharadi

    Dates and Times: August 31st and September 22nd  (17:00, 19:00 & 21:00)

    Duration: 60 minutes

    Musician: Pianist – Jay Parte

    Ticket Price: From ₹1,499 onwards

    Candlelight: Tribute to Coldplay

    Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel, Pune Kharadi

    Dates and Times: September 27th and 28th (17:00, 19:00 & 21:00)

    Duration: 60 minutes

    Musician: Pianist – Sonam Lodhi

    Ticket Price: From ₹1,499 onwards

    Candlelight: Tribute to The Beatles

    Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel, Pune Kharadi

    Dates and Times: October 18th (17:00, 19:00 & 21:00)

    Duration: 60 minutes

    Musician: Pianist – Sonam Lodhi

    Ticket Price: From ₹1,399 onwards

  • Godrej Consumer Products Launches Cinthol Foam Bodywash for a Refreshing Experience


    Cinthol Foam Bodywash

    MUMBAI: Godrej Consumer Products Ltd, a leading emerging markets company, has yet again innovated to revolutionize the body wash category in India pegged at approx. INR 900 crore. The company has introduced a foam-based body wash format under its Cinthol brand. Named Cinthol Foam Bodywash, this product comes with an instant automatic foamer eliminating the need for a loofah. Unlike other body wash products which are harder to wash off and require more water, Cinthol Foam Bodywash is easy to wash off.

    According to Mintel research, 90% of consumers in India predominantly use soaps for their bathing routine, while only 9% of Indians report using body wash, shower gel, or shower cream. Many deterrents are hampering the bodywash category adoption including price point, added expenditure for using bodywash such as spending on loofahs, and time required for bathing.  Loofahs are also the perfect hiding place for germs. 

    GCPL’s latest innovation, Cinthol Foam Bodywash is developed out of this need and addresses all concerns of consumers – to make luxurious bathing an everyday affair. The innovative formula of Cinthol Foam Bodywash dispenses as instant foam, creating a lush lather that cleanses effectively, leaving the skin feeling squeaky clean.

    Speaking about the launch, Neeraj Senguttuvan, Head – Marketing (Personal Care), Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL), said, “The Indian bodywash market is growing as consumers seek to enhance their daily routines with a more sensory and luxurious shower experience. Our latest innovation, Cinthol Foam Bodywash, was developed to meet this demand, making luxurious bathing an everyday indulgence. This innovative formula dispenses instant foam, creating a rich lather that effectively cleanses and leaves the skin feeling exceptionally clean and pampered.”

    Cinthol Foam Body wash is available in two invigorating fragrances, Original and Lime, offering a luxurious and sensory-rich shower experience. Its innovative formula dispenses as instant foam, producing a rich lather that eliminates the need for a loofah, ensuring an effortless cleanse. Designed to leave your skin feeling soft, smooth, and impeccably clean, this body wash provides intense cooling lime freshness that revitalizes the senses. The long-lasting deo fragrance keeps you fresh and confident throughout the day, which is suitable for all skin types and age groups, and ideal for both men and women.  

    To support the launch of the new product, GCPL has launched a TVC campaign, which captures the essence of adventure and fun with a refreshing twist. The TVC is conceptualized by Lightbox, the in-house creative studio of Godrej Consumer Products Ltd.  It starts with a girl enjoying a refreshing bath under a waterfall using Cinthol Foam Body Wash. Suddenly, playful monkeys appear and steal the bottle. As they have fun with the foam, the girl approaches them and decides to share the foam with them, bringing smiles all around. The ad concludes with the girl and the monkeys enjoying the foam together, highlighting the joy and playful spirit of Cinthol Instant Foam Body Wash.

    Gaurav Kumar, Lead Creative Strategist – Lightbox, Godrej Consumer Products Ltd (GCPL), commented, “The TVC showcases a fun video of a girl and monkeys enjoying the foam body wash together, highlighting how easily it rinses off. It emphasizes the ‘soap in a bottle’ format, which makes it convenient to use anywhere without the need for a loofah. This campaign reflects our commitment to engaging storytelling that connects with our audience in a fun and relatable way.”  

    From a consumer perspective, there is a strong preference for upgrading to a body wash from traditional soap; however, steep prices often pose a significant barrier. Priced at an MRP of just 120 rupees for a 200ml bottle, the Cinthol Foam Body wash offers an affordable luxury in both its invigorating Original and Lime fragrances. More than just a product, the Cinthol Foam Body wash provides an experience designed to invigorate your senses, leaving you feeling refreshed and confident.  

  • 7 Effective Strategies for Faster Muscle Recovery After Workouts

    By: Dr. Rajaram M, Chief Physiotherapist, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru

    It is crucial to effectively undergo muscle recovery after intense workouts to enhance performance, reduce the risk of injury, and ensure overall well-being. If people do not rest after exercising or excessive physical training, the chances of muscle tears increase along with hormonal imbalance and severe mental exhaustion. Here are seven proven strategies to boost your recovery and help you bounce back stronger: 

    Prioritize Rest and Sleep: An individual’s body heals during the hours of sleep when all the lost energy is restored and growth hormones are released that assist muscles in repairing themselves and staying healthy. To facilitate this healing process, aim to sleep well for 7-9 hours each night. Furthermore, some people often feel too tired; therefore, they may wish to include a couple of power naps during the day to rejuvenate the body and improve their overall state of fatigue.

    Properly Rehydrate: Performing intense workouts causes the loss of body fluids and electrolytes, especially through sweat, leading to a decline in muscle functioning and performance. Additionally, improving the recovery rate requires drinking adequate amounts of water all day. All minerals and electrolytes lost after exercises can also be replaced with different sports drinks or coconut water so that the body remains hydrated.

    Fuel Your Body with Nutrients: After an intense workout, the body needs nutrients to repair muscle tissues and refill its energy reservoirs. Eating a well-balanced meal that consists of protein sources like chicken or paneer, carbohydrates such as rice or sweet potatoes, and healthy fats from foods like avocados or nuts within 30-60 minutes post-exercise helps to regain energy. 

    Incorporate Active Recovery: Doing some light exercises on rest days helps with blood circulation and facilitates the removal of metabolic waste from muscles, aiding in recovery. Walking, swimming, or jogging slowly is good. The practice of light exercises increases the flexibility of joints along with assisting to relax tense muscles which consequently leads to fast recovery.

    Use Proper Recovery Techniques: In the process of relieving muscle soreness and enhancing blood circulation, foam rolling and massage are among the methods that can be employed. People can integrate foam rolling into their daily routine so that it can address those tight spots and relieve muscle pain. Besides, one could also book for massages or use a percussion massager to further release muscle tension and promote recovery.

    Apply Cold and Heat Therapy: Both cold and heat therapies offer significant benefits for recovery. Cold therapy like ice packs or cold baths is aimed at relieving inflammation and muscle soreness right after an intense workout, while heat therapy, having warm baths or heating pads as its form, can be used at other times to relax muscles and improve blood circulation, thus easing muscle stiffness and speeding up recovery

    Monitor and Adjust Your Training Intensity: It is essential to listen to the body so that one does not suffer fatigue or injuries caused by workout overload. Ideally, the training schedule should include days for relaxing along with varying intensity levels of exercises that aid in complete muscle recovery. 

    Effective recovery after an intense workout is key to improving performance, minimizing injury risk, and maintaining overall health. This is possible by following these seven practices which will not only help people to come back even stronger but also ensure that the body remains fit for the longest time possible. Ensuring that your body gets what it deserves to perform at its best level, accomplishes every fitness objective.

    Previous articleGodrej Consumer Products Launches Cinthol Foam Bodywash for a Refreshing ExperienceNext articleHow Cybage Supports Pune Police During the City’s Unpredictable Rainfall

  • How Cybage Supports Pune Police During the City’s Unpredictable Rainfall

    PUNE: As Pune experiences heavy showers and sudden downpours, the Pune Police Force remains committed to maintaining law and order under challenging conditions. Recognizing their dedication, Cybage Software Pvt. Ltd. has stepped forward to offer support.

    In a gesture of solidarity, Cybage recently distributed raincoats and umbrellas to the police officers stationed across the Nagar Road area, ensuring their safety and comfort while on duty. The initiative was aimed at helping officers perform their duties effectively, even in harsh weather.

    “The heavy rains have significantly impacted our daily operations, and the support from Cybage came just when we needed it most,” said a spokesperson from the Vishrantwadi police station. “Their timely assistance has provided much-needed relief to our dedicated officers on the frontlines.”

    Cybage selected bright yellow raincoats to enhance visibility during rain, further ensuring the safety of both police officers and the public. “The Pune Police work tirelessly to manage traffic and ensure the safety of citizens, even in the harshest conditions,” said Jaikrishnan, Senior Vice President at Cybage. “Providing them with raincoats and umbrellas is a small token of our appreciation for their resilience, sense of duty, and invaluable service to the community.”

    Pune police play a pivotal role in the city’s ongoing transformation into a booming metropolis. By investing in the safety and comfort of those who protect us, Cybage has once again displayed its unwavering dedication to the community it calls home. This collaboration between the company and the Pune Police illustrates their shared commitment to the city’s well-being. 

  • The Impact of Mastercard and Gramophone’s Collaboration on Credit Access for 2 Million Farmers in India

    Farmers will be able to use the Community Pass card, supported by Mastercard, to make payments for purchases in remote, offline areas

    MUMBAI: Mastercard announced a collaboration with Gramophone, a leading agritech platform, to enable 2 million smallholder farmers on the Mastercard Community Pass platform in India with access to agri inputs. The two entities will work towards powering offline payments for farmers in rural and remote areas through the Community Pass financial inclusion card. Gramophone is also expected to enable their existing five lac farmers with offline payments and credit.

    Community Pass provides a digital ecosystem for buyers who are looking for sustainable sources of quality produce at favorable market prices and supply chain financing; and for smallholder farmers looking for reliable markets, fair prices, and access to credit. The platform brings together various agri-sector stakeholders in a centralized agricultural marketplace, amplifying the collective positive impact on farming communities. Community Pass services also include an offline payment card and input credit that will be rolled out in the coming months.

    This collaboration with Gramophone will ensure that farmers can buy the right inputs at a fair price. The service will be rolled out later this year, starting with inputs and offline payments, while access to credit will be launched early next year. In addition, Gramophone plans to roll out innovative loyalty/cash-back schemes for its members via the offline-enabled card. Through this collaboration, Gramophone also seeks to enable easier access to working capital for their farmer-producer organizations and small retailers for driving inputs and scaling business.

    “In line with the Government of India’s vision to digitize the agriculture sector, Mastercard has been working to bring key stakeholders in the agri ecosystem onto one platform to ease credit and input access for farmers and enhance their incomes. This collaboration with Gramophone will ensure that farmers can access quality inputs of their choice, on easy credit terms, as well as the benefits of digital payments even without internet connectivity or smartphone availability,” said Ricardo Pareja, Head of Community Pass Markets, Mastercard.

    “At Gramophone, we have consistently delivered top-tier agronomy advisory and quality products through our, in-house technology platform enabling Input Commerce. Now, we are excited to add Mastercard’s advanced technology stack and partner networks to further enhance India’s agricultural ecosystem. Starting with a pilot in Madhya Pradesh, we will aim to support farmers across India by increasing their incomes by 50-60%, through access to inputs and credit,” said Tauseef Khan, Co-founder, of Gramophone.

    Mastercard Community Pass is a shared, interoperable digital infrastructure for rural populations that has benefitted over 2 million Indian farmers across 25 districts in eight states, to date. 

  • Enhancing Maternity Healthcare in Jammu and Kashmir: The Powerful Collaboration Between ELFA International and NTT DATA

    Upgrades Hysteroscope Unit at Lal Ded Hospital

    SRINAGAR: ELFA International donated a Hysteroscope Unit to Lal Ded Hospital, Srinagar with financial support from NTT DATA, a global digital business and IT services leader. As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, NTT DATA partnered with ELFA International to support its mission of addressing the healthcare needs of people in Jammu and Kashmir.

    A hysteroscopy is an essential instrument for performing minimally invasive procedures such as hysteroscopy. This procedure is crucial for diagnosing and treating intrauterine conditions, including abnormal bleeding, polyps, fibroids, and other uterine abnormalities. The availability of a hysteroscope will significantly enhance the hospital’s capability to provide high-quality care and improve patient outcomes.

    The Hysteroscope Unit was handed over by the Chief Guest of the event Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah (IAS), Administrative Secretary of Health and Medical Education and Mr. Nazim Zai Khan (IAS), Mission Director of National Health Mission, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, other dignitaries presented at the occasion included Mr. Mohammad Ashraf Hakak  (JKAS), Administrator GMC and associated hospital, Dr. Mushtaq Ahmad Rather, Director Health Services, Kashmir,  Dr. Muzafer Jan, Medical Superintend LD Hospital, Mr. Mir Iftikhar Ahmad, Sr. Vice-President, ELFA International, Mr. Mehran Khan, CEO, ELFA International and senior team member of ELFA International.

    Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah (IAS) congratulated the entire team on their accomplishment and said, “I thank ELFA International and NTT DATA for the donation of the Hysteroscope Unit to the Lal Ded Hospital Srinagar, the entire Kashmir region will benefit from this service.” He added, “ELFA International has been doing a commendable job in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.”

    Gauri Bahulkar, Sr. Director of Global Corporate Social Responsibility at NTT DATA, emphasized the company’s dedication to addressing healthcare disparities. “Enhancing healthcare access and infrastructure in underserved states across India is important to us. Our support for the great work that ELFA International has undertaken in upgrading Lal Ded Hospital is a small step towards a healthier, more equitable future. We also hope that more CSR funding will reach states like Jammu and Kashmir, where the need to improve healthcare infrastructure is urgent,” she said.

    “We are delighted to join hands with a global leader like NTT DATA in our mission to improve the healthcare facilities across Jammu and Kashmir,” Mehran Khan, CEO, of ELFA International added. “Proper access to healthcare is integral to the dignity of the individual and these ambulances will enhance our ability to provide it in these remote areas.”

  • Chitale Bandhu Celebrates 75 Years with Star-Studded Collaboration Featuring Sachin Tendulkar


    From left Indranil Chitale, Sachin Tendulkar and Kedar Chitale

    PUNE: Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale, the iconic name in Indian namkeens, sweets, and snacks; proudly marks the beginning of its 75th anniversary this year. To celebrate this milestone, the company has announced an exciting collaboration with cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar for the next phase of their dynamic journey, which will be a combination of tradition and star power that promises to delight fans and customers alike.

    Established in 1950, by the visionary Late Bhausaheb Chitaleand then joined by the Late Rajabhau Chitale, they laid a foundation of culinary excellence that has become a cherished part of countless households. Their commitment to quality and tradition has solidified Chitale Bandhu’s reputation, making it a household name across India and beyond. Having grown from a modest sweets store to an internationally renowned brand known for its rich quality delicious products, brand Chitale Bandhu has expanded its offerings to include a wide array of premium as well as a pocket-friendly range of namkeens, sweets, and snacks delights.

    The second generation of leadership, comprising Madhav Chitale, Shrikrishna Chitale, and Sanjay Chitale, has ably laid the foundation of a strong business network. They have supported and grown the business by establishing robust retail and distribution channels and also made significant strides in social responsibility and community engagement. Their efforts further cemented Chitale Bandhu’s reputation as a beloved brand.

    With Sachin Tendulkar now on board as the new brand ambassador, brand Chitale Bandhu is excited to announce that the cricketing icon will join forces with the brand to introduce a new range of snacks and savories. These new offerings will be inspired by consumers’ favorite flavors and crafted with the same dedication to excellence. The collaboration between Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale and Sachin Tendulkar is more than just a partnership; it’s a celebration of shared values, legacy, and the spirit of excellence that defines both icons.

    “As someone who values tradition and excellence, I am pleased to partner with Chitale Bandhu, a brand that has been a cherished part of so many lives, including mine, for generations,” said Sachin Tendulkar.  “I’m excited to join them as they celebrate their 75th-year milestone and continue to bring joy to families across the globe.”

    “Sachin Tendulkar’s values of dedication and excellence mirror those of our founders, and we are thrilled to welcome him as our brand ambassador. We look forward to creating new memories with our customers through this collaboration”, said Indraneel Chitale -Partner, Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale.

    “Celebrating 75 years is a significant achievement for us, and we are excited to share this moment with our customers and team members,” added Kedar Chitale – Partner, Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale.

    In 1976, the company introduced the Maharashtrian Bakarwadi, a distinctive and popular snack that quickly became a favorite among its customers. Recognizing the growing demand for this unique treat, Chitale Bandhu made a groundbreaking move in 1996 by becoming the first company in India to machine-produce Bakarwadi, ensuring consistent quality and taste to meet the increasing market needs. From the bustling streets of Pune to households in the United States, Europe, the Gulf, and beyond, Chitale Bandhu and ChitaleBandhu Americas has become a cherished part of countless celebrations, offering a diverse range of over 250 products, from sweets to savories and more.

    As Chitale Bandhu looks back on its illustrious history, the company remains focused on its future, continuing to deliver exceptional products and experiences. The beginning of the 75th-anniversary with Sachin Tendulkar marks a new chapter in the brand’s storied legacy, one that blends tradition with modernity and sets the stage for continued success.

  • MultiFit’s Strategic Partnership with Indian Railway Hockey Team to Transform Athletic Performance

    PUNE: MultiFit, the UK’s elite and India’s largest functional and strength training brand, is keen to announce the launch of its new partnership with the Indian Railway Hockey Team. MultiFit is committed to pushing the boundaries of fitness by integrating functional training with strength and conditioning to create holistic, athlete-focused workouts.

    This collaboration unveiled on National Sports Day, marks a significant step towards fostering team bonding and enhancing the athletic performance of the hockey team.

    The partnership kicked off with an ice-breaking activity focused on team bonding, setting the stage for a collaborative and energetic relationship. The highlight of the day was a specially curated workout session in the signature MultiFit style designed to emphasize functional fitness, which is crucial for improving overall athletic performance.

    The Railway Men’s Hockey Team participated in a dynamic trampoline workout led by MultiFit’s Head Coach, Kate Austin. The session provided a challenging yet enjoyable experience, helping the athletes to push their limits in a fun and engaging way. The day concluded with a calming yet invigorating yoga and breathwork segment, promoting both physical and mental well-being.

    Yuvraj Walmiki, a key player on the Railway Men’s Hockey Team, expressed his appreciation for the session, saying, “For an athlete, staying fit is crucial not just for performance but for longevity in the sport. The holistic approach at MultiFit is exactly what we need to stay at the top of our game.“

    The team thoroughly enjoyed their time at MultiFit Pradhikaran, marking the beginning of what promises to be a strong and fruitful partnership.

    “Discipline is the backbone of every athlete’s journey. It’s what turns talent into achievement and dreams into reality. At MultiFit, we saw this spirit come alive with the Indian Railway Hockey Team, and it’s a reminder that with discipline, anything is possible.” said Deepti Sharma, Director, MultiFit

  • How Fintechs are Leading Employee Development in India

    MUMBAI: In the fast-evolving fintech landscape of India, where innovation and technological advancements are key drivers of success, leading companies are recognising that investing in employee development is crucial for staying ahead. As the demand for specialized skills and adaptive expertise grows, these fintech firms are not only fostering a culture of continuous learning and development but also setting new standards in talent management. According to LinkedIn’s 2024 Workplace Learning Report, 94% of Indian companies have made skill enhancement a top priority this year, recognizing the importance of both technical and soft skills. Additionally, 91% of learning and development professionals emphasize the growing value of human skills in today’s market. This focus is essential as global skill requirements are expected to shift by 68% by 2030, highlighting the need for continuous learning and adaptability in the workforce​. By prioritizing upskilling, diversity, and internal growth opportunities, these companies are equipping their workforce to navigate the complexities of the industry and drive the future of financial technology in India.

    1.       mPokket

    mPokket, one of India’s fastest-growing digital lending platforms, is on a mission to empower the country’s youth by bridging the credit gap and providing small instant personal loans. The company is at the forefront of employee development in India, driving initiatives that foster professional growth and inclusivity. With a strong focus on expanding its workforce, mPokket is committed to hiring diverse young talent and ensuring a gender-diverse environment. The company also prioritizes continuous learning by offering skill development initiatives and empowering employees to pursue further education and certifications that enhance their career prospects. Innovative work policies, such as the “Don’t-Feel-Like-It” policy, reflect mPokket’s dedication to employee well-being, allowing for flexible time off to maintain productivity and mental health. This supportive and inclusive work culture not only boosts employee satisfaction but also contributes to long-term career growth, positioning mPokket as a leader in cultivating a skilled and motivated workforce in India. The company is an RBI-registered NBFC, headquartered in Kolkata and Bengaluru, with pan-India operations.

    2.       Biz2x

    Biz2X, a fintech lending SaaS platform in India, is setting the standard for employee development in the fintech sector with its innovative and comprehensive growth initiatives. By partnering with financial institutions to drive digital transformation, Biz2X not only fuels business expansion but also prioritizes the professional advancement of its workforce. The company has introduced the “Learner’s Wallet” policy, enabling employees to enroll in courses that enhance their skills and performance, alongside reimbursing certification costs up to INR 5,000 annually. Beyond financial support, Biz2X offers robust mentorship programs, personalized career advancement plans, and regular skills development workshops, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development. This dedication to employee growth ensures a motivated and skilled team, capable of delivering exceptional client experiences and driving the company’s mission forward. By investing in its employees’ professional journeys, Biz2X exemplifies leadership in cultivating a dynamic and talented workforce within India’s competitive fintech landscape.

    3.       CASHe

    CASHe, a fintech startup, specializes in providing short-term personal loans primarily to salaried millennials. The company is set to hire 300 new employees by the end of 2024 to build a Technology Excellence Centre in Hyderabad. This initiative will focus on digital engineering and fintech innovation, enhancing CASHe’s capabilities in lending, insurance, and wealth management. The hiring will span various roles, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. CASHe’s commitment to leveraging AI and machine learning aligns with its mission to drive financial inclusion and support career development within the evolving fintech sector.

    4.       Finserv

    Fiserv, Inc., a global technology leader in enabling seamless money movement for countless financial institutions and millions of individuals and businesses, is also at the forefront of employee development in the fintech industry. The company prioritizes continuous learning, diversity, and innovation, ensuring that its workforce remains ahead of the curve. Through comprehensive skilling programs, employees gain access to advanced learning platforms, while the Business Innovation Group fosters a creative environment for developing cutting-edge fintech solutions. Fiserv’s culture is deeply embedded with principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion, supported by Employee Resource Groups like the Women Impact Network and Unity, which champion professional growth and drive the company’s DE&I agenda. 

  • Federal Bank Leads the Way: Unveiling India’s Groundbreaking Facial Payment System, SmilePay

    Innovative facial authentication technology enables quick and seamless transactions and brings users to smile on camera as they complete their purchases. Technology is based on Bhim Aadhaar Pay.

    Initial pilots rolled out in partnership with Reliance Retail and Svatantra Micro Finance for their customers at select branches/outlets

    CHENNAI: Federal Bank, India’s leading private sector Bank, is proud to announce the launch of SmilePayTM, this groundbreaking technology will allow customers to complete transactions using only their face. This revolutionary product, unveiled as we enter India’s 78th year of Independence, marks a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards financial freedom and convenience. The launch of SmilePayTM happened at the Global Fintech Fest by Ms Shalini Warrier, Executive Director, Federal Bank.

    Introducing SmilePay™: Pioneering a New Era of Facial Authentication Payments

    Two of India’s largest corporate houses, Reliance Retail and Ananya Birla helmed Svatantra Micro Housing (SMHFC), are among the first to pilot this innovative technology with their customers at select outlets/branches.

    SmilePay™ is the first-of-its-kind payment solution in India, utilizing advanced facial authentication technology built on the UIDAI’s Bhim Aadhaar Pay. This revolutionary product eliminates the need for traditional payment methods, offering unmatched convenience for customers and enhanced efficiency for merchants.

    “SmilePayTM is not just a product; it’s a step towards a more connected and efficient financial ecosystem,” said Shalini Warrier, Executive Director at Federal Bank. “We’re excited to see how this technology will transform the banking experience for our customers.”

    “The concept of moving from cash to cards to QR codes to wearables, and now just a smile to pay, is an exciting Customer Experience in the making,”  added Indraneel Pandit, CDO, Federal Bank.

    Speaking on the introduction of the payment system at select Reliance Retail outlets, V Subramaniam, Director, Reliance Retail said, “At Reliance Retail, we are committed to integrating cutting-edge technology that enhances the customer experience. SmilePay™ aligns perfectly with our vision of offering seamless, secure, and innovative solutions to our customers by making the customer journey more intuitive and convenient.”

    “Aligned with Ms. Ananya Birla’s vision, Svatantra Micro Housing (SMHFC) helps create intergenerational equity, by facilitating home-asset acquisition. With a focus on customer-centricity, SMHFC is devoted to providing affordable, convenient, secure, and seamless solutions for our customers. We are happy to partner with Federal Bank and confident that the solutions provided by SmilePayTM represent a truly innovative step in this direction.” Said Vineet Chattree, Director, SMHFC

    Key Features and Benefits of SmilePay™:

    Unmatched Convenience: Customers can complete transactions without the need to carry cash, cards, or mobile devices.

    Enhanced Merchant Efficiency: Facilitates effective crowd management and seamless transaction processing at counters.

    Robust Security: Powered by the secure UIDAI face authentication service, ensuring safe and reliable transactions.

    User-Friendly: A simple, intuitive interface requiring only a facial scan to complete a purchase.

    Availability and Future Expansion

    SmilePay™ will initially be available exclusively to Federal Bank customers, requiring both merchants and customers to have accounts with the Bank. Federal Bank plans to extend the service and explore strategic partnerships to broaden its reach shortly.