iWorld
25% of Rural Maharashtra Uses Internet Services on their Phones reveals Chrome survey
MUMBAI: Post a successful execution of the world’s largest rural survey by Chrome Data Analytics and Media, the company has revealed some game- changing numbers for FMCG brands.
Amongst other findings, the Rural Establishment Survey states that while 80% of rural Maharashtra uses mobile phones, only 20% are actually using internet services on them. The extensive survey that was spread across a period of 15 months, has also reported a number of other interesting insights that will change the way FMCG brands are targeting their user base.
When it comes to educational infrastructure, the rural institutions seem to be moving in the right direction. According to the report, 1/3rd of schools in the area have access to the internet. The report also goes into marketing and branding effectiveness through the questionnaire. For example, one of the country’s largest selling two-wheeler companies is still known by its former name, years after breaking up with its Japanese collaborator.
On speaking to Chrome DM CEO Pankaj Krishna about the impact of this study he stated that ‘The study has taken a deep dive into rural India’s consumer behavior and habits, which is a sure shot solution for FMCG brands to redirect their sales and marketing strategies.’
Further to this, the report is aimed at assisting companies to tap the untapped market. Especially since 74% of the Indian population still resides in rural areas, there is a huge opportunity for companies to scale up their sales to the next level.
iWorld
Prime Video and Hrithik Roshan reunite for quirky heist comedy Mess
HRX Films expands pact with quirky heist comedy set for production
MUMBAI: Prime Video is doubling down on its partnership with Hrithik Roshan, announcing a new comedy film Mess that promises chaos, chuckles and a clever twist on the classic heist.
Produced by Hrithik Roshan and Eshaan Roshan under HRX Films, a division of FilmKraft Productions, the film is being made in association with Soda Films Lab. Directed by Rajesh A Krishnan, Mess marks the second collaboration between the streaming platform and HRX Films after the upcoming thriller Storm.
At the heart of Mess lies an unusual premise. A group of robbers break into the home of a man with OCD, only to find themselves outmatched in a night-long standoff that flips the script on who is really in control. It is a set-up that blends tension with humour, turning a break-in into a breakdown of expectations.
Prime Video India director and head of originals Nikhil Madhok said, “A good story should surprise and entertain, and Mess does both with ease. It brings together a unique premise, memorable characters and a tone that keeps you laughing throughout.”
He added that the collaboration with HRX Films continues to grow stronger, with the new film reflecting a shared appetite for bold and original storytelling.
Hrithik Roshan said, “After Storm, Mess feels like a natural next step in our journey with Prime Video. The film captures the kind of unconventional storytelling we want to champion, with Rajesh bringing a distinctive voice to the narrative.”
Director Rajesh A Krishnan said, “The world of Mess is a mix of comedy and chaos, unusual enough to keep audiences on edge while still delivering humour. It has been a deeply collaborative and creatively fulfilling experience.”
The original screenplay comes from Paul Soter, with adaptation and dialogues by Kapil Sawant, adding another layer of craft to the film’s offbeat narrative.
As production gears up, Mess looks ready to live up to its name, serving up a delightful tangle of mayhem, mischief and movie magic for audiences in India and beyond.
