Brands
HMD and Sanya Malhotra ring in a new era of self-expression
MUMBAI: HMD has turned up the volume on self-expression with its new ‘Issa vibe’ campaign, starring actor and brand ambassador Sanya Malhotra. The spotlight? The stylish new HMD Vibe 5G: a smartphone designed less for numbers on a sheet and more for personality on the street.
Launched in Mumbai, the campaign marks a bold brand refresh for HMD in India. With the rallying cry “Claim your vibe,” the company is shifting gears from the usual spec-heavy smartphone chatter to something gen z craves more: authenticity, individuality and a touch of flair.
“HMD is moving the conversation from megapixels to meaningful moments,” said HMD, ceo & vice president, India & APAC, Ravi Kunwar. “It’s about how the device enhances life, not just its features. With Sanya and the Vibe 5G, we’re celebrating young India’s energy, confidence and creativity.”
The campaign film brings this ethos to life through Sanya’s dynamic presence, blending everyday moments with expressive style. “Claiming your vibe is about owning who you are with comfort and confidence,” said Malhotra. “For me, the Vibe 5g isn’t just a phone, it’s a creative partner.”
Crafted by And And Brand Partners, the film pulses with youthful energy. Creative director, Rajesh Minocha explained, “We wanted every frame to feel like a heartbeat of self-assurance. Sanya carried that effortlessly, inspiring audiences to own their identity.”
Beyond the screen, the campaign takes a 360-degree route: splashing across TV, print, digital, social, and even retail spaces. From bold digital storytelling to vibrant point-of-sale displays, HMD is ensuring the vibe is everywhere, right where young Indians are.
For a brand known globally as Human Mobile Devices, the message is clear: HMD isn’t just selling phones, it’s selling a feeling. And with the Vibe 5G, it’s loud, proud, and unapologetically stylish.
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: 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.
