MAM
DDB Tribal north strengthens team with Ashna Nandrajog and Mohini Varma
MUMBAI: DDB Mudra Group has announced a boost at DDB Tribal north, appointing Ashna Nandrajog as senior vice president – business and Mohini Varma as executive vice president – planning. This strategic move aims to fuel growth, creativity, and innovation.
Nandrajog, a 20-year industry veteran, has worked with global brands like Bata, Ford, and Maruti Suzuki at top agencies including Contract, FCB Ulka, Ogilvy, and Publicis Capital. Her passion for travel and family fuels her dynamic approach to brand-building.
Varma, an award-winning strategist and former NDTV correspondent, has shaped brand narratives for Netflix, Google, and Pepsico while working at Toaster, FCB, and JWT. She holds a Gold APAC Effie for impactful campaigns that drive real-world change.
DDB Tribal president Ashutosh Sawhney said, “We’re scaling new heights, pushing boundaries, and hungrier than ever. The industry thrives on exceptional talent, and in Nandrajog and Varma, we’ve found the perfect blend of fire and maturity to capitalize on the immense opportunities before us, delivering outstanding work for our clients and building formidable teams.”
Nandrajog said, “In an era of rapid digital transformation, DDB Mudra Group stands out for its integrated approach. I’m thrilled to join a company that champions brand building through impactful creativity and delivers holistic solutions across its diverse businesses. I’m eager to contribute to DDB’s continued growth and success.”
Mohini Varma added, “At DDB, we believe in emotionally resonant creativity, rooted in deep human insights, that transform brands, markets, and culture. In a world where attention is a premium, genuine insights are paramount. I’m excited to co-author the next chapter of growth for our dynamic brands.”
With two powerhouse leaders on board, DDB Tribal north is poised for an exciting phase of creative excellence and strategic expansion.
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI:Â Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
