Brands
Rose Audio Visuals launches Connect Nxt branded content division
MUMBAI: It’s jumping in to get a piece of the golden opportunity of branded content. Goldie Behl’s — Rose Audio Visuals has announced the launch of Connect Nxt, a dedicated branded content division designed to craft meaningful brand narratives as audiences increasingly move away from traditional advertising.
The new division will focus on three key pillars: story-driven content that prioritises emotional resonance; end-to-end execution leveraging Rose Audio Visuals’ production and distribution networks; and an innovation-focused approach that champions new tools and formats for richer storytelling experiences.
Connect Nxt will be led by Megha Desai, who brings over 25 years of experience in IP and content creation from companies including Chernin Asia Media Digital, Bling Entertainment and Fountainhead Mktg.
“We are living in a world where content is in high demand and attention in short supply. As brands, it is important to reach the consumer where they already are – in the world of stories. That’s what we aim to do with Connect Nxt,” said Desai.
Advising Connect Nxt on the creative front is Arvind Menon, former executive creative director at BBH India, whose work includes brands such as Mercedes Benz, HDFC Ergo and CaratLane.
“Today’s audiences are smarter and harder to impress. Our goal with Connect Nxt is to push creative boundaries while ensuring that every story we tell adds value to both the audience and the brand,” Menon commented.
Rose Audio Visuals founder Goldie Behl: “With Connect Nxt, we’re blending entertainment with brand narratives in a way that feels organic and immersive because, in the end, people don’t just buy products, they buy into stories.”
Rose Audio Visuals continues to expand its portfolio with initiatives including RosePod, an audio storytelling studio, and Rose Kanakavalli, its Telugu market debut.
Brands
NODWIN Gaming brings back Sidharth Kedia as chief strategy and investments officer ahead of IPO
Former CEO returns to drive fundraising, M&A and global expansion plans
GURUGRAM: NODWIN Gaming has appointed Sidharth Kedia as chief strategy and investments officer, marking a high-profile return as the company gears up for its next growth phase and a potential public listing.
Kedia, who previously served as CEO between 2019 and 2023, steps back in at a pivotal time with a mandate spanning strategy, fundraising and mergers and acquisitions. His appointment comes amid ongoing pre-IPO fundraising efforts and a broader push to strengthen shareholder value.
During his earlier stint, Kedia helped transform NODWIN’s trajectory, driving a tenfold jump in revenue and raising over $50 million in capital. He also played a key role in expanding the company beyond esports into a diversified youth media and entertainment platform. Under his leadership, the company’s valuation grew sharply, from around Rs 140 crore following Nazara Technologies’ investment in 2018 to $350 million pre-money after a funding round led by Sony Group Corporation in 2023.
With over two decades of experience, Kedia brings a cross-sector perspective spanning fintech, private equity and media. His career includes stints at Reliance Industries, where he worked on strategic initiatives across the Network18 portfolio, and at Viacom18, where he led corporate strategy and M&A efforts.
In his new role, Kedia will focus on sharpening NODWIN’s long-term strategy, identifying inorganic growth opportunities and strengthening its global investment narrative as the company builds a scalable, IP-led business across gaming, content and live experiences.
NODWIN Gaming chief strategy and investments officer Sidharth Kedia said, “It feels great to be back at NODWIN at such an important point in its journey. Having seen the company grow over the years, it’s clear how strong the foundation is today and how much opportunity lies ahead. NODWIN is entering a phase where focused strategy, thoughtful capital allocation, and strong execution will unlock its true value potential.”
Welcoming him back, NODWIN Gaming co-founder and managing director Akshat Rathee said, “Sidharth has played a pivotal role in shaping NODWIN’s journey, and his return comes at an important stage as we continue to scale the business globally and look at a potential listing. His leadership will be instrumental in driving long-term value creation.”
The appointment follows recent board strengthening, including the induction of Arnd Benninghoff, as the company builds institutional depth ahead of a possible IPO.
Backed by strong financial momentum, with revenues already surpassing last year’s full-year figures within the first nine months of FY26, NODWIN is doubling down on scale and strategy. With Kedia back in the mix, the company appears to be lining up its next big level up.
