MAM
AXN brings X’mas cheer with ‘Who Needs Santa’ contest
MUMBAI: Who Needs Santa when there is AXN to hand out gifts. That is the push that the action oriented broadcaster AXN is using for its new promotional campaign Who Needs Santa. This kicks off on 17 December 2005.
The contest revolves around a simple theme. All a viewer has to do is watch AXN between 9 pm and 12 pm, spot the question of the day and SMS AXN followed by the answer (‘a’, ‘b’ or ‘c’ ) to 2525. A Maruti Suzuki Swift is at stake for the winner.
AXN is also offering prizes such as a 42 inch Haier Plasma TV and five Sony Play Station-2s to duel with after studying the weekly tips on AXN GameMax! In addition to AXN merchandise, viewers can also win a Nokia 6600 everyday through SMS.
Launched in India in 1998, AXN which positions itself as the heart of action and adventure is available in 22 countries all over Asia. It claims to reach more than 71 million households throughout Asia, including more than 25 million homes in India.
MAM
Ameya Velankar steps down as Uber’s head of marketing for India & South Asia
Veteran marketer exits after more than seven years with the ride-hailing giant.
MUMBAI: After more than seven years of steering Uber through the bumpy roads of India’s mobility market, Ameya Velankar has decided to change lanes. Ameya Velankar has stepped down as Head of Marketing for India and South Asia, marking the end of a significant chapter at the ride-hailing company. He had been with Uber since 2019, taking on multiple roles in product and category marketing before rising to lead the marketing function for the region in 2021.
During his tenure, Velankar played a key role in strengthening Uber’s positioning in one of its most competitive and dynamic markets. He helped drive localised marketing strategies and scale adoption across key offerings such as Auto, Moto, Rentals and Intercity, tailoring global platforms to Indian consumer needs.
Prior to joining Uber, Velankar built his marketing expertise at leading consumer companies including SC Johnson and Marico, where he handled category and product leadership roles. His career began at RPG Enterprises.
Details of his next professional move have not been disclosed.
In a fast-evolving mobility landscape where brands constantly battle for attention, Ameya Velankar helped Uber stay relevant and resonant with millions of Indian users. As he moves on from the driver’s seat of marketing, the company will now look for fresh ideas to keep its wheels turning smoothly.
