Brands
ITC names Amitabh Kant independent director, Hemant Malik as director
MUMBAI: ITC Ltd has appointed Amitabh Kant as an independent director for a five-year term from 1 January 2026, while reappointing Hemant Malik as whole-time director for a further two years from August 2026, following shareholder approval.
Kant, a former IAS officer and India’s G20 sherpa during the country’s 2022–23 presidency, brings more than four decades of public-policy and governance experience to the ITC board. A noted reformer and author, he has previously led Niti Aayog and served in senior roles spanning industrial policy, infrastructure and tourism. He currently sits on the boards of HCL Technologies, Larsen & Toubro and InterGlobe Aviation.
Malik, divisional chief executive of ITC’s foods business and overseer of its personal care portfolio, has been with the company for over 35 years. He is widely credited with building marquee FMCG brands such as Aashirvaad, Sunfeast, Bingo! and Yippee!, and with shaping ITC’s trade marketing and distribution engine.
Brands
Uniqlo India signs Jasprit Bumrah as brand endorser
Cricketing star fronts new LifeWear campaign highlighting comfort and simplicity.
MUMBAI: Jasprit Bumrah just bowled a perfect yorker into fashion because when the fastest bowler in the world picks Uniqlo, even off-field style gets a pace attack. Uniqlo India has roped in Indian cricket icon Jasprit Bumrah as its brand endorser, kicking off the partnership with a fresh campaign that brings the brand’s LifeWear philosophy to life, clothing engineered for simplicity, quality and effortless comfort in daily routines.
The 30-second film shows Bumrah in relaxed, everyday moments away from the crease highlighting how the AIRism Oversized T-shirt slips seamlessly into his off-field life. The narrative quietly mirrors his journey as a fast bowler, built on consistency, instinct and the kind of fit that feels right from the first wear and only gets better with time.
Jasprit Bumrah said, “In my day-to-day life, I prefer clothing that feels comfortable and effortless, especially when I’m spending time off the field. That’s why I’m happy to be partnering with Uniqlo, the brand’s approach to everyday clothing feels like a natural extension to my personal style.”
Uniqlo India marketing director Nidhi Rastogi added, “We are proud to partner with cricket world champion Jasprit Bumrah and welcome him to the Uniqlo family. His focus on excellence, authenticity and quiet confidence reflects the essence of Uniqlo’s LifeWear philosophy.”
The campaign is now live across digital channels, social media, in-store displays and outdoor platforms, with the film and imagery rolling out alongside the announcement.
In a world where pace often means rushing, Bumrah and Uniqlo are reminding everyone that the best things in life and on the body come from calm, consistent comfort that simply shows up every day and gets the job done.
