Mumbai: The city of Trivandrum witnessed a monumental moment for the advertising and media industry with the grand launch of the Advertising Club Trivandrum (ACT) on Valentine’s Day, under the theme ‘For the Love of Advertising’. The event, held at Hyatt Regency Trivandrum, brought together advertising professionals, media experts, brand owners, and industry veterans, marking the beginning of an exciting platform for creative collaboration, networking, and knowledge sharing.
The official launch of ACT was graced by renowned filmmaker and advertising legend, R. Balki, who was joined by Prathap Suthan, one of India’s most respected advertising minds. The event featured engaging sessions and discussions that explored the dynamic landscape of advertising and media, emphasizing the region’s growing influence in the industry.
A key highlight of the event was an insightful conversation between R. Balki and Hari Krishnan of Tilt Brand Solutions. The discussion delved into Balki’s celebrated campaigns, offering rare insights into his creative process. Speaking on the occasion, Balki remarked, “Trivandrum and Kerala could be a powerhouse for Indian advertising with the kind of content being produced in films and in other creative fields.”
The audience was further captivated by Prathap Suthan’s session, where he shared his inspiring journey from Trivandrum to becoming a leader in Indian advertising. Suthan spoke about creativity, leadership, and the art of brand storytelling, offering invaluable lessons to the next generation of advertising professionals.
The event also featured a panel discussion on ‘Regional Advertising in the Digital Era’, with notable industry figures including Varghese Chandy (Malayala Manorama), Kamal Krishnan (Times of India), Anil Ayroor (Zee Keralam), and Naveen Srinivasan (Mathrubhumi). The panel explored the evolving role of regional markets and the growing importance of hyperlocal content in today’s digital landscape.
Adding to the event’s grandeur, special video messages were shared by advertising icon Piyush Pandey and Member of Parliament Shashi Tharoor. Both extended their warm wishes and emphasized the critical need to foster creativity and innovation in the advertising industry.
Delivering the presidential address, Laj Salam, President of Advertising Club Trivandrum, shared the vision behind the formation of the club and its commitment to creating a thriving ecosystem for advertising and media professionals in Kerala. The evening concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Secretary Vishnu Vijay, who expressed gratitude to the guests, members, and supporters who made the launch a resounding success.
With its successful debut, Advertising Club Trivandrum is poised to become a dynamic force in Kerala’s advertising and media landscape, promising a future of creativity, collaboration, and growth.
