Brands
Rahul Dravid pads up for Paradeep Phosphates campaigns
MUMBAI: Rahul Dravid has taken guard again, this time not on the pitch, but in the fields. Paradeep Phosphates Limited (PPL), one of India’s largest private fertiliser producers, has roped in the cricketing legend as its brand ambassador to champion innovative and sustainable farming practices.
The partnership brings together two names known for trust, consistency, and performance. Dravid’s steady hand and PPL’s farmer-first ethos aim to inspire India’s growers to adopt smarter, more sustainable methods through two nationwide campaigns, “Kheti Ka Game Changer” and “NPK & Organic Fertilizers Ki Winning Team.”
The campaigns use cricketing analogies to make agronomy simple and engaging. In the first, Dravid fronts Jai Kisaan Navratna Nano Shakti Nano DAP, likening nano fertilisers to game-changing strategies that improve yield and efficiency. In the second, balanced fertilisation takes centre stage with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium playing star “team roles,” promoting soil health and stronger crops.
“We are thrilled to welcome Rahul Dravid to the PPL family,” said Paradeep Phosphates managing director and CEO Suresh Krishnan. “His discipline and integrity mirror our values. Just as he led teams to victory through patience and planning, our products empower farmers to achieve winning outcomes season after season.”
Dravid echoed the sentiment, saying, “Farmers and sportspersons share a similar spirit, both rely on patience, timing, and the right support to succeed. I’m proud to be part of an initiative that helps India’s farmers make practical, informed choices.”
Backed by sister company Zuari FarmHub Ltd (ZFHL) in collaboration with TERI, PPL’s nano fertilisers have shown strong results in boosting crop yield while promoting sustainability. The new campaigns will roll out across television, print, and digital platforms, taking Dravid’s calm resolve and PPL’s innovation to millions of farmers nationwide.
Looks like Dravid’s next innings will be played on fertile ground, where discipline meets growth and every crop has a shot at victory.
Brands
Hyundai Venue crosses 1 lakh bookings, adds HX8 Diesel AT variant
New top-spec automatic diesel trim brings ventilated seats, OTA updates and paddle shifters.
MUMBAI: Hyundai Venue just hit the jackpot and upgraded the prize because when you cross 1 lakh bookings, you don’t just celebrate, you throw in paddle shifters and ventilated seats for the ride. Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) announced that the all-new Hyundai Venue has achieved 1 lakh bookings, cementing its strong position in the compact SUV segment. To mark the milestone and further enhance customer choice, the company introduced the new HX8 Diesel Automatic (AT) variant.
The HX8 Diesel AT is powered by the proven U2 1.5L CRDi diesel engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. It adds a host of premium comfort, safety and convenience features, including:
- Ventilated front seats
- Dual-tone leatherette seats with VENUE branding
- Electric 4-way driver seat adjust
- Controller Over-the-Air (OTA) updates
- Hyundai Bluelink connected car technology
- Electric parking brake with auto hold
- Rear disc brakes
- Ambient lighting on crash pad and central console
- Drive mode select (Eco, Normal, Sport)
- Traction control modes (Sand, Mud, Snow)
- Paddle shifters
HMIL, managing director & CEO Tarun Garg said, “We are delighted that the new Hyundai Venue has crossed 1 lakh bookings, reaffirming the strong trust Indian customers place in our brand. The introduction of the new HX8 Diesel Automatic variant further strengthens the Venue lineup, offering customers the perfect blend of diesel efficiency, torque-rich performance and effortless convenience.”
Backed by Hyundai’s extensive sales and service network, the Venue continues to appeal to buyers seeking a feature-rich, comfortable and future-ready compact SUV. The new variant reinforces HMIL’s focus on delivering advanced technology, safety, comfort and value while adapting to evolving customer preferences.
In a segment where bookings are the real horsepower, Hyundai isn’t just counting milestones, it’s handing drivers an automatic upgrade that makes every journey feel like the victory lap.
