MAM
Audible unveils its new podcast series: The Nanda Devi Mystery
Mumbai: Audible, a leading creator and provider of premium audio storytelling, has released its newest podcast series, The Nanda Devi Mystery, which deep-dives into the captivating account of the missing nuclear device that interlinks the histories of India and America. The podcast recounts the gripping tale of an endeavour undertaken by these two nations against China and hidden from the world for 13 years.
Combining state-of-the-art espionage and mountaineering on the second highest peak of India, an area off limits to all but the Indian army, this intelligence operation reflected the irrationality and paranoia brought about by the Cold War. Amidst the ongoing geopolitical tension and conflicts, it is difficult to comprehend how the two countries orchestrated this joint operation against China, merely three years after the Indo-China war and against the backdrop of the India-Pakistan conflict. To this day, the unanswered questions about the lost nuclear device continue to be a matter of concern and intrigue for the locals in and around the area.
Produced by Asiaville, directed and narrated by Sashi Kumar, and written by Angshuman Choudhury, the podcast delves into an extraordinary period of modern Indian history when New Delhi actively collaborated with the Central Intelligence Agency and did the unthinkable. The Nanda Devi Mystery podcast is a dramatic story of failure, success, fear, anger, and an inspiring tale of the world’s finest mountaineers. It stands as a testament to the remarkable courage and loyalty displayed by Indian and American mountaineers of that time.
Audible country manager, India Shailesh Sawlani said, “We are thrilled to introduce this engaging podcast produced by Asiaville, that delves into the intersection of espionage, mountaineering, and untold secrets, on Audible. This series reinforces our commitment to bring diverse and compelling narratives to our audiences, and we are looking forward to embarking on this thrilling journey with our listeners.”
Asiaville CEO Tuhin Menon said, “We are pleased to bring audiences on Audible the nail-biting and riveting story of the Nanda Devi Mystery through this immersive podcast series. We believe it is an incredibly timely story that addresses the lengths countries will go to in order to protect vital strategic interests and the depth of character and force of will that personify the human faces of these all-too-real escapades. We are confident this series will resonate strongly with listeners of all ages.”
The 20-episode podcast is available in English to Audible members at no additional cost. You can download the Audible app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store and start listening.
MAM
Shoppers Stop elevates Biju Kassim as GSS Beauty CEO
Move comes as GSS Beauty scales global brand partnerships in India.
MUMBAI: From store shelves to global shelves, the beauty game is getting a sharper makeover. Shoppers Stop has elevated Biju Kassim as managing director and chief executive officer of Global SS Beauty Brands Limited (GSSBB), signalling a stronger push into the premium beauty segment. The move builds on Kassim’s role in setting up GSSBB, a wholly owned subsidiary that has quickly positioned itself as a fast-growing distribution platform for global beauty brands in India. The unit has been central to Shoppers Stop’s ambition of expanding its footprint in the high-margin beauty and luxury categories.
Chairman Nirvik Singh noted that Kassim’s experience across the beauty ecosystem and his understanding of premium and luxury consumers would help steer the next phase of growth. The focus, he indicated, will be on sharpening the company’s beauty portfolio and scaling partnerships with international brands.
Kassim, for his part, steps into the role at a time when India’s premium beauty market is undergoing rapid evolution, driven by rising consumer aspirations and increased access to global labels. He highlighted that GSSBB will remain a key strategic pillar, with an emphasis on expanding brand partnerships, enhancing consumer experiences and driving growth across markets.
As global beauty brands continue to eye India as a high-growth destination, Shoppers Stop’s bet is clear: owning not just the shelf, but the entire beauty ecosystem behind it.
