iWorld
“National Startup Day 2024 signifies a game-changer for India’s digital journey”: Dot Media Base
Mumbai: Dot Media Base is a one-of-a-kind content-first talent marketing agency in India. Originating as a humble startup during the lockdown in Kanpur, it has blossomed into a thriving ecosystem boasting over 200 creators, 250+ distinctive clients including music labels, OTT platforms, FMCG, Beauty, and Fintech brands., 1000+ digital campaigns, a roster of 30 celebrities, and a dedicated team of 90+ professionals. With offices in Mumbai and Kanpur, the enterprise has also established an expansive modern production studio spanning 1,800 sq. ft
Shubham Singhal, Vaibhav Pathak, and Om Singh have nurtured successful IPs like TGB Troop, Dot Talents, Dot Studios, Dot Public Relations, and FinTroop. Their approach includes digital tools, artistic prowess, and innovative ideas to make engaging content and captivating visuals. They’re working towards making a dynamic digital realm that’s not just exhilarating but also addresses creators’ challenges.
Additionally, India celebrates National Startup Day today. This annual event serves as a testament to the nation’s commitment to creating a thriving ecosystem for startups, providing them with the necessary resources and encouragement to flourish.
Indiantelevision.com caught up with the founders Singhal, Pathak and Singh where they gave detailed explanations regarding their agency, also what preparations they are planning this day and how they are looking forward to curb challenges and many more…
Edited excerpts
On the journey since the inception of the agency
Since the inception of our agency, the journey has been nothing short of a remarkable adventure. Our story began during the challenging times of the lockdown, just before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the face of the global challenge, we found an incredible opportunity in the digital space, setting ourselves apart in a crowded industry. Relocating from Kanpur to Mumbai marked the start of our hustle.
Starting with a team of only 8 members, we have grown rapidly and now boast a team of over 70 dedicated individuals. Throughout our expansion, we have not only created a successful agency, but we have also cultivated a culture that values the well-being and growth of our team. Our commitment goes beyond just professional partnerships – we care for our team members, influencers and collaborators not just professionally but also personally. As we look back at our journey, we realise that it’s not just about reaching milestones and hitting targets, but more importantly, it’s about growing into a community that thrives on mutual support, resilience, and a shared passion for what we do.
On specific preparations that Dot Media Base is making for Startup Day
As we gear up for Startup Day on January 16th, Dot Media Base is not just preparing for a single day but sparking a year-long transformation. Our recent preparations involve a shift in how we work. We’re focusing on our team’s passions, letting them choose roles that excite them rather than sticking to predefined positions.
Our emphasis is on making this year not just about hitting goals but about team unity, collaboration, and continuous learning. Startup Day is not just a celebration but a platform for our team to come together, share success stories, and dive into the startup culture.
We’ve been restructuring, encouraging active participation, and fostering an environment where every team member plays a vital role. Dot Media Base is not just a company; it’s a joint effort. Startup Day is our way of creating a space for collaboration, connection, and content creation that reflects our dedication to excellence. We are ready for a year of innovation, growth, and shared success!
On the agency’s active engage with the startup ecosystem, and benefits derived from such involvement
We’re deeply plugged into the buzzing startup landscape, actively diving into events that spark knowledge and connections. Our team is out there, attending everything from conferences to meet-ups, soaking in insights and building relationships. These events aren’t just about business; they’re about learning and sharing with industry folks.
Networking is our game. We’re not just talking about partnerships; we’re talking about creating a community that fosters innovation. We learn from the best. Our commitment extends to mentorship programs, ensuring our team grows alongside industry leaders.
Every event is a goldmine of insights, not just from our peers but from everyone in the game. We, as founders, make sure our team is always hungry for learning, active in the networking game. It’s not just about growing in our bubble; it’s about making friends and allies in every corner. We’re always ready, always excited, seeking new connections and opportunities for collective success.
On any collaborations with other startups that you find particularly impactful
At Dot Media, collaboration isn’t just about transactions; it’s about shared values and mutual growth. Our partnership with WeDo Marketing, initiated when both our ventures were budding a few years ago, is a testament to this philosophy. We value collaborations that transcend the business realm and foster genuine friendships.
WeDo Marketing, specialising in impactful brand work, especially in fashion, lifestyle, and FMCG, has played a pivotal role in our journey. They’ve pushed us to excel in influencer management and campaign ideas, sparking innovation.
For us, collaboration is not merely about achieving success individually; it’s about lifting each other to new heights. Rooted in mutual respect, our partnership extends beyond professional deals to create an environment where collective growth thrives. This belief defines our approach to collaborations—a commitment to journeys that are not bound by limits but driven by shared aspirations and limitless possibilities.
On challenges that India need to overcome in the startup ecosystem
National Startup Day 2024 signifies a game-changer for India’s digital journey. Amidst the startup boom, a critical challenge revolves around job creation. While startups are vital for innovation, connecting them with individuals lacking educational access poses a hurdle. To truly thrive as the world’s largest startup ecosystem, we must address this literacy gap, ensuring everyone has a fair shot.
It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about empowering our workforce. As we pioneer the global startup scenario, the focus is on inclusivity and skill-building. We’re not just growing startups; we’re nurturing talents ready for the dynamic global stage. Our vision is a transformed India, where every aspiring mind, irrespective of background, contributes uniquely. In this digital evolution, let’s not just make history; let’s make opportunities, crafting a nation known not only for startup success but for offering meaningful work to every dreamer ready to shape their collective future. Our commitment is unwavering – driving a transformation that leaves no one behind.
On the long-term vision and mission of Dot Media Base, and its evolution since the company’s founding
At Dot Media Base, our big picture is about being the all-in-one destination for everything in the market. We’re dreaming of a place where we handle it all – from talent management to brand collaborations to creating blockbuster content and bringing to the bigger screen. Picture this: a hub where brands and creators find all their solutions under one roof, whether it’s casting stars or executing killer marketing strategies. We want to cover all the bases, working with creators and brands across the spectrum.
Since day one, our journey has been a ride of change and growth. It’s not just about running a company; it’s about growing as a tight-knit team. Our mission? To create that one campaign that shakes up how people see marketing, breaking the norm. We’re on a mission to build a creative space where ideas flow, campaigns connect, and success knows no limits. Together, we’re not just evolving; we’re setting new standards, making waves, and turning our vision into a reality. That’s the Dot Media Base journey – where every step is a leap toward something bigger and bolder.
e-commerce
Google rolls out new AI shopping tools for Indian users
Gemini, AI Mode in Search, and Circle to Search get smarter upgrades to simplify online buying.
MUMBAI: Google is making online shopping in India a lot less “add to cart” and a lot more “ask and discover”. The tech giant has announced a fresh set of artificial intelligence-powered updates designed to make finding and buying products more intuitive and efficient. By integrating its Gemini models with the Shopping Graph, a massive dataset of over 50 billion product listings that sees nearly 2 billion updates every hour, Google is bringing smarter, more conversational shopping experiences across its platforms.
Users can now move seamlessly from idea generation to product discovery within the Gemini app. Whether planning a festive outfit or building a gift list, shoppers can receive product listings, comparison tables, pricing from across the web, and direct purchase links, all through natural conversation. The feature is currently available in English and Hindi.
Google has upgraded its AI Mode in Search, turning it into a more natural shopping assistant. Instead of relying on traditional filters and keywords, users can ask questions in plain language and receive structured responses with visuals, pricing, reviews, and inventory details. Comparison tables highlighting key differences are also included. While currently available in English, a Hindi version is expected soon.
The popular Circle to Search feature has been enhanced on devices such as the Pixel 10 and Samsung Galaxy S26 series. Users can now identify and explore multiple objects in a single image at once. In fashion-related queries, the tool can break down entire outfits and suggest similar products, making style replication or discovery much easier.
Google stated that these updates build on last year’s successful rollout of the Virtual Try-On tool in India, which helped users visualise apparel before purchase.
In a market where shopping decisions often happen in seconds, Google is betting that smarter AI will turn casual browsing into confident buying. From festive shopping lists to spotting the perfect outfit in a photo, these new tools aim to make every scroll feel a little more rewarding and a lot less overwhelming.
