MAM
Sushant Singh Rajput: A beloved of brands
NEW DELHI: The sudden demise of popular actor Sushant Singh Rajput has shocked the entire nation. The beloved actor who successfully transitioned from television to films made a mark for himself in a short span. His speculative acting, cheerful smile and the humble attitude towards fans and others gained him a special place in the heart of millions.
Prime minister Narendra Modi also condoled his death, saying ‘a bright young actor gone too soon.’
His aura wasn’t restricted to the film industry but trickled down to the advertising world also. He was among those stars who had a kitty full of brands and was recognised for his quality work instead of quantity.
In 2011, he was spotted for the first time in a TVC of LUX soap with Aishwarya Rai. In 2013, Pepsi announced him as a brand ambassador for its sub-brand Pepsi Atom. He was seen promoting the product in ad campaigns. Rajput endorsed multiple brands and a variety of products ranging from Kingfisher, Lux Cozi, Garnier Men, Nissan Terrano to Close up, Flying Machine and One Plus.
However, clear with his choice, he refused to endorse a fairness cream, and even rejected a proposal of Rs 15 crore, as he found it racist.
In 2018, Rajput joined hands with NITI Aayog to promote women entrepreneurship and motivate women to come forward and build a vibrant ecosystem. At the same time, he was seen promoting NITI Aayog’s digital payments campaign transforming India into a less-cash economy.
For another cause, he partnered with DHFL Pramerica Life Insurance to launch the Behtar India campaign, with an aim to take India towards a healthier, cleaner and greener future towards building a better India.
Here’s a look at his most appealing ad campaigns over the years:
Donear NXG
Menswear brand Donear NXG collaborated with Rajput as its new brand ambassador. He was seen promoting the latest collection of the brand.
BATA
European footwear major Bata roped him as a brand ambassador in 2018 to promote its casual range of footwears, and help brand become more relevant and aspirational among the younger generation.
Whirlpool
In 2018, the brand announced the association of Rajput along with Kriti Sanon to promote its wide range of appliances, and help accelerate the brand’s value among the new age customers. The duo was seen promoting various products in different ad campaigns.
Syska
In 2017, when the brand forayed into personal grooming category, it roped Rajput as its first brand ambassador to connect with the target audience. The move was intended so that the brand becomes familiar not only in the metro but also in the non-metro cities.
Sonata
Tata Group’s affordable watch brand Sonata roped in Rajput in 2017. The brand intended to showcase the aspiration of younger generations by the bold choices they make. The ad film, Khud Par Yakeen Karo was highly praised by people.
He debuted with Zee TV’s popular daily soap Pavitra Rishta and soon entered Bollywood with his first film Kai Po Che! in 2013. The actor was critically praised for his performance in the film. His films such as PK, Kedarnath, Shuddh Desi Romance and MS Dhoni: The Untold Story helped him achieve tremendous success and established him in the Bollywood industry. He also played the role of an Indian detective in Byomkesh Bakshy for which he received critical acclaim. His latest movie, Chhichhore, won applauds from the audience. The actor will be posthumously seen in his last film Dil Bechara which was slated to release in May but postponed due to ongoing lockdown. The film will be released online.
Brands
Celsius100 Consulting names Rhys Rufus CEO
Long-time leader steps up as firm bets on continuity to drive next growth phase
BENGALURU: Celsius100 Consulting Private Limited has elevated long-serving leader Rhys Rufus to chief executive officer, marking a leadership shift as the firm prepares for its next phase of growth.
Rufus takes over from founder S Ghosh, who will continue as founder and managing director. In his new role, Ghosh will focus on strategic direction and new business opportunities, while Rufus assumes responsibility for daily operations and growth initiatives.
The appointment caps a 16-year journey for Rufus at the company. Having joined in its early years, he went on to build Celsius100’s digital services arm from scratch, turning it into one of the firm’s fastest-growing verticals. Under his leadership, the company strengthened its capabilities across digital marketing strategy, performance marketing, campaign execution and measurement.
Beyond digital, Rufus has played a key role in shaping the organisation’s talent pool and expanding its client base. He has led business development efforts across India and helped extend the firm’s footprint into the United Kingdom, reinforcing its position as a cross-market consulting partner.
“Rhys has been the backbone of our growth story for 16 years. He built our digital services practice from scratch, assembled a brilliant team, and won the trust of clients in India and the UK. His calm temperament, his deep commitment to quality, and his ability to forge lasting partnerships make him the ideal person to lead Celsius100 into its next chapter. I could not be more confident in this transition,” said Celsius100 Consulting Private Limited founder and managing director S Ghosh.
Rufus struck a reflective note on taking charge. “Celsius100 has been home for the better part of my professional life and I am deeply honoured to take on this responsibility. We have built something unique together over almost two decades, and I look forward to working with our talented team and valued clients to take the company to new heights. Our focus will remain on delivering work that truly transforms our partners’ businesses,” said Rufus.
Colleagues describe Rufus as a steady hand under pressure and a leader who prioritises long-term relationships. His elevation signals a clear bet on continuity, with the company choosing to promote from within rather than look outside for leadership.
As Celsius100 enters its next chapter, the transition reflects both stability and ambition, with a familiar face now steering the firm towards fresh opportunities.
