Brands
Ankkit Gupta transitions to JioStar in brand role from Disney Star India
MUMBAI: JioStar has appointed Ankkit Gupta as a part of the team that oversees brand and marketing strategy for JioHotstar and JioStar platforms.
Gupta has made the transition to Jiostar from Disney Star, where he served as senior manager of brand and marketing strategy for over seven years. During his tenure, he spearheaded several major campaigns, including National Geographic’s ‘One for Change’ sustainability initiative, which reached 50 million viewers across digital platforms. He also led network amplification for IPL 2023 and the release of Avatar 2.
At Disney+ Hotstar, where he previously served as senior manager of commercial and procurement, Gupta was instrumental in the platform’s India launch, securing over 600 titles across Hindi and English content. His media career spans roles at Network18 Media, where he managed key advertiser relationships, and Reliance Broadcast Network, where he developed radio programming strategies.
In his new role, Gupta will oversee brand development and marketing initiatives across JioStar’s expanding digital entertainment portfolio.
Brands
Ather Energy doubles service network to 500 centres nationwide
EV maker scales support alongside growth to keep riders on the road
MUMBAI: Ather Energy is quietly building more than just scooters. It is building the backbone to keep them running.
The electric two-wheeler maker has expanded its service network to 500 authorised centres across India, nearly doubling its footprint in a year from 277. The move mirrors its growing retail presence and signals a clear focus on one often overlooked part of EV ownership, what happens after the purchase.
From the outset, Ather has prioritised service support in every city it enters, aiming to make ownership as smooth as the ride itself. Its Gold Service Centres bring in upgraded customer lounges, modern equipment and processes designed to make servicing more transparent and reliable.
Speed, too, is part of the pitch. Through its ExpressCare initiative, riders can get periodic maintenance done in about an hour, now available across 82 centres, turning what used to be a chore into a quick pit stop.
Ather Energy chief business officer Ravneet Singh Phokela said, “Crossing 500 service centres is an important milestone as we scale across the country. Reliable after-sales support is central to the ownership experience, and our focus remains on consistent service quality and accessibility.”
The expansion comes as demand grows for models like the Ather 450 and the Rizta, which have helped the company reach a broader set of riders across metros and emerging cities alike.
Alongside servicing, Ather continues to power up infrastructure through the Ather Grid, now one of the largest fast-charging networks for two-wheelers, with over 4,300 charging points.
With plans to scale further and deepen its presence, Ather’s approach is clear. Selling the scooter may start the journey, but keeping it running smoothly is what sustains it.
