Tecno launches Camon 20 series – VFM camera centric phones

Tecno is on a launching spree. A couple of months ago, they launched the first made-in-India and affordable foldable phone, the Tecno Phantom Fold. This time around, Tecno brings something for all the content creators, camera enthusiasts and the general public alike, the Tecno Camon 20 series. The series includes three phones, the Tecno Camon 20, Camon 20 Pro and the Camon 20 Premier. The entire series is distinguishable, with a unique puzzle design throughout the line-up with different rear designs based on the model of choice.

Camon 20

Starting at just 14,999 INR, the Camon series is powered by a respectable Helios G85 coupled with a 64MP primary sensor sporting Tecno’s latest AI innovation in their camera capture software called GRBW+ Pro. Offered in base specifications as compared to the entire line-up, the Camon 20 impresses with the camera alone. The Helios G85 and the 6GB RAM are sufficient for a budget device, with HiOS based on Android 13 running on the entire new series of phones. Tecno Camon 20 also features other software enhancements and AI algorithms, making this budget camera-centric phone perform wonders in all light conditions. The large AMOLED FHD+ with an in-display fingerprint scanner and up to 256GB ROM makes this an appealing budget package. Camon 20 shall be on sale from 20th May 2023. 

Camon 20 Pro

Available in 128 and 256GB ROM, the Camon 20 series performs better with the Mediatek Dimensity 8050 processor coupled with 8GB RAM + 8GB expandable. An AMOLED 6.67-inch 120Hz panel with an in-display fingerprint sensor adds charm to the Camon 20 Pro. Also, it brings functionality like a headphone jack, a rear that looks identical to the more capable Camon 20 Premier and all the goodies of AI algorithms from the flagship phone in the series. The 128GB variant is priced at INR 19,999, whereas the 256GB variants can be had for INR 21,999. The Camon 20 Pro series will be available post 2nd week of June and looks like a promising lower-mid-range phone with impressive camera features.

Camon 20 Premier

The Tecno Camon 20 series’s flagship phone brings the best features in a rather affordable package. Like the Camon 20 Pro, this phone sports similar MediaTek Dimensity 8050, 8GB RAM + 8GB expandable, a similar large 120Hz AMOLED panel with colour accuracy and flat glossy edges. The USP of the Camon 20 Premier, which makes it interesting, is the sensor-shift stabilisation found in the iPhone Pro series. Not only does this phone sport a moving sensor for added stability and low-light capabilities, but it also features better cameras with a 50MP + 108MP (primary) + 108MP UW sensor that doubles as an excellent macro sensor. The OIS + sensor shift enables great video stability and low-light images. The launch of the premier is awaited in the last week of June, and if priced competitively, it just might be one of the best cameras on a smartphone at an affordable price.

The Camon 20 series gets 5000mAh Li-ion batteries with bundled 45W chargers. Speaking of the CAMON 20 series in India, Arijeet Talapatra, CEO of TECNO Mobile India, mentioned, “TECNO has changed gears and has started making strong inroads in the premium segment by bringing best-in-class technology in our smartphones for our users at much accessible price points. Through our CAMON portfolio, we continually strive to push the boundaries and revolutionize the photography experience. With the CAMON 20 series, we present a solution for those seeking exceptional night photography capabilities, delivering sharper and more detailed pictures in any lighting situation. This new camera-centric range of smartphones brings together innovative imaging technologies delivering advanced portrait and video capabilities that let users record those emotional motion moments in sharper detail, while its striking aesthetic design and powerful performance complete an all-around exceptional user experience.” 

 

 

We wish Tecno all the best with the Camon 20 series. We barely had time to click some pictures and videos from these phones, but our little experience showcased some promising results. We would like to see some competitive pricing on the Camon 20 Premier 5G as and when it launches by the end of June. The 6nm Dimensity 8050 and the additional expandable RAM over the DDR4x 8GB RAM, with good AMOLED panels, make an appealing case for the Camon 20 series. The hardware seems impressive, and the camera software AI algorithms are also fascinating. We hope the overall UI improves with time and updates flow as frequently as the Tecno phone launches.

OnePlus Pad Vs Xiaomi Pad 5 – The battle of the best Android tablets

If you are looking for an excellent tablet that serves as a healthy companion to your already large phones, there are only so many good options in India. Samsung makes excellent AMOLED tablets, but those are priced in similar categories as the iPads and the sheer iPad OS features, ecosystem locks, and restricted customisations are in a niche of their own. Xiaomi launched its Pad 5 almost two years ago, and this year it finally has competition from OnePlus. I bought the Pad 5 during its first sale and have been using it ever since. It has got several updates and is running the on the latest MIUI 14 OS based on Android 13. There is a significant price difference between the two, but how good is the new OnePlus Pad vs Xiaomi’s offering from two years ago? Let’s find out. 

Design and built – Two different approaches 

The Xiaomi Pad 5 features what you would consider an iPad Pro design form factor. It’s a polycarbonate matte-finish rear design with a camera island familiar to Xiaomi phones during the launch year. The rounded rectangle design is excellent to hold in hands from different angles and feels symmetrical. Overall it’s a tried and tested design with tactile buttons and relatively thicker bezels. Quad speakers with Dolby Atmos support stereo switching based on the tablet’s orientation. At 511 gms, the tablet does feel tiring to hold when gaming for long, but a stand can solve this issue for most tablets. At 11 inches in a 16:10 aspect ratio, the physical dimensions are smaller than the OnePlus Pad. 

The OnePlus Pad has an exciting design with a 2K 11.61-inch display. Despite weighing more than the Xiaomi Pad 5, at 550 gms, the OnePlus Pad feels slimmer to hold thanks to the clever design. Both the tablets miss a headphone jack, which is a huge turn-off. So they had the space to fill in 4 speakers in both tablets but could not make room for a little headphone jack? OnePlus expects you to use this tablet in landscape mode for most of your usage. Hence, the cameras are also placed in landscape orientation at their rear and upfront. 

Display – 500nits of goodness 

Why does one take a tablet? It has to be their display. In 2021, Xiaomi offered the Pad 5 with 500 nits of brightness IPS 2.5K+ panel with a 120Hz refresh rate. The content looks rich, and display settings allow ample customisations on both tablets. In isolation, these tablets provide excellent video viewing performance coupled with great audio quality from Dolby Vision and Atmos support on both these tablets. The OnePlus Pad hits the ball right out of the park with support for a 144Hz refresh rate and a similar 2k resolution with similar 500 nits of brightness. OnePlus also offers various customisation options on the display as per your liking, which are more or less similar to Xiaomi Pad 5. 

The real difference arises when one watches HDR content. Playing the same content next to each other reveals that the Xiaomi Pad 5 does good black levels, but then again, it suffers insane black crush issues. A thing reminiscent of 2021 Xiaomi devices in India, my Xiaomi Mi 11x has this black crush issue when playing HDR content. The OnePlus Pad, on the other hand, does not produce the same HDR brightness levels or deep black contrasts, but overall is the better display among the two for overall content consumption. Games and HDR content have no issues in the darkest areas, while the extra screen estate brings an increased immersive experience. On standard videos, you cannot go wrong with either of the tablets with sharpness, colours and saturation. 

Performance – More than satisfactory 

Considering that the Xiaomi Pad 5 was launched in the year 2021, it bought a balanced performance with the Snapdragon 860. It’s a 7nm SoC and has been performing flawlessly since the time I own the Xiaomi Pad 5. I have been gaming on this tablet ever since, and with updates, the tablet has become more efficient, if not powerful. The 6GB RAM + 3GB expandable is enough in most scenarios, but MIUI could get aggressive at RAM management, especially with gaming apps in the background. 

OnePlus Pad is powered by a 4nm Mediatek Dimensity 9000 processor with 12GB RAM + 4 GB expandable. This one performs flawlessly and at times, better than the Snapdragon 860 in the Xiaomi Pad 5. This is apparent, especially during gaming; you can carry much higher frames and graphics settings in comparison. For example, Call of Duty mobile allows 120fps on the OnePlus Pad compared to a max of 90fps on the Pad 5. RAM management is similar to Xiaomi Pad 5, though games tend to reload if put in the background for more time than necessary. Overall, the wireless connectivity with dual-band WiFi on both pads is impressive, with the OnePlus Pad scoring high on WiFi 6 support and Bluetooth 5.3 compared to Bluetooth 5 on the Pad 5. Every app opens and performs excellently on these tablets.

OS – Tables turn 

Performance shall only be as good as the software it runs on. This applies to both the Xiaomi Pad 5 and the OnePlus Pad. OnePlus Pad runs on the Oxygen OS 13.1, and apart from flexible Windows settings, nothing resembles anything special for the tablet. OnePlus needs to improve on this and provide an OTA update specifically for the OnePlus Pad. This feels like Color/Oxygen OS displayed on a large screen. The Xiaomi Pad 5 takes the cake in the software department. The tablet is feature loaded with gestures, multitasking capabilities with up to 5 windows running together, a dock accessible in most apps irrespective of the orientation and much more. MIUI 14 on the Pad 5 eliminates all the bloatware usually associated with affordable Xiaomi devices and brings a neat usage experience tailored to the tablet form factor. 

Camera – They exist

OnePlus thinks we use the tablet in landscape orientation and never turn it to portrait mode like we never consume digital magazines or read articles online in comfortable portrait modes. Nonetheless, the camera placement is questionable. If you’re right-handed, you will smudge the rear and front cameras on the OnePlus Pad by simply holding the tablet. The best part is that the front 8MP with motion tracking and the rear 13MP camera are decent enough for use. Do not expect any phone-level performance from either tablet, but here are some photos and videos for your reference. 

Accessories – Promises

Apart from chargers, the additional accessories for OnePlus Pad include a magnetic keyboard with a mouse pad that supports gestures. This accessory is worth 8K INR, making it a perfect small productive machine on the go. The typing experience is excellent for a tablet accessory, and the mouse pad is generous enough for the form factor. There’s also a stylus for all the creatives out there, which costs 5K INR and is nothing as impressive as the Apple Pencil or the Samsung S-pen but does its job well and charges magnetically via the OnePlus Pad. Xiaomi, on the other hand, has disappointed big time with its accessories options, there is only the Pen that can be had for 6K INR and brings 240Hz touch sampling with pressure points, but there is still no keyboard case available. Bluetooth keyboard is the only option as of now for the Xiaomi Pad 5. I hope they bring promised accessories with the next iteration; that said, isn’t it high time?

Battery and charging 

The Xiaomi Pad 5 has a generous 8720mAh battery which charges via the bundled 33W charger. The OnePlus Pad has a 9510mAh battery which charges at 67W via the bundled 100W charger. The OnePlus Pad charges faster and lasts longer thanks to its efficiency and the Mediatek Dimensity 9000 4nm processor. If the Xiaomi Pad 5 lasts about 2-3 days over gaming, video consumption and music listening, the OnePlus Pad can easily surpass that time by almost 12 more hours than the Pad 5.

Verdict 

The OnePlus Pad is definitely the one to get among the two if you are in the market for a great Android tablet. The Xiaomi Pad 5 was launched almost two years ago and still serves as an excellent value proposition for people strictly on a budget. In a world where flagship phones cost twice as much as these tablets, the OnePlus Pad brings flagship performance in a significant form factor. It is worth the additional asking price compared to the Xiaomi Pad 5. I am a Xiaomi Pad 5 owner, and the OnePlus Pad impresses with the hardware but desperately needs good tablet-oriented software. An exemplary job OnePlus on your first tablet. Xiaomi, it’s time for the Pad 6!

Beat the heat – Decrease the voltage on your PC for gains.

PC gaming is a vast market, and it’s only getting bigger. Mobile PC gaming is also catching heat thanks to technological advancements, both hardware and software. Just like full-grown consoles vs handheld consoles, a good gaming PC will outperform a similar-priced mobile gaming solution. Games are becoming increasingly demanding, and to get the most out of your hardware, you might want to overclock your CPU and GPU. The gains come at the cost of more power draw and heat generation. 

With the latest generation of hardware, the amount of heat and power draw is more than ever. However, if you’re uncomfortable doing this or don’t want to risk damaging your hardware, you can underclock it instead. This will still give you a performance boost and is more efficient, meaning your hardware will last longer. This is great if you intend to use your PC for many fruitful years with minimum hiccups. 

Intel processors – CPU

Intel processors are some of the most popular on the market and some of the easiest to overclock. However, underclocking is just as simple. To underclock an Intel processor, you need to use the Intel Extreme Tuning Utility (XTU). This free download from Intel’s website is compatible with all their latest processors. Once you’ve installed XTU, you can open it up and click on the “Performance” tab. Here, you’ll see a list of all of your installed processors. To underclock one of them, simply click on it and then use the slider to adjust the clock speed.

AMD processors – APU, CPU and GPU

AMD processors are more challenging to overclock than Intel processors but are also more powerful. Underclocking them is a little simpler, but you must still use a tool like AMD OverDrive.AMD OverDrive is a free download from AMD’s website and is compatible with all of their latest processors. Once installed, you can open it and click on the “AMD OverDrive” tab. Here, you’ll see a list of all of your installed processors. To underclock one of them, simply click on it and then use the slider to adjust the clock speed.

Nvidia processors – GPU

Nvidia processors are some of the most popular on the market and some of the easiest to overclock. However, underclocking is just as simple. You need to use the Nvidia Control Panel to underclock an Nvidia processor. This free download from Nvidia’s website is compatible with all their latest processors. Once you’ve installed the Nvidia Control Panel, open it up and click on the “Manage 3D Settings” tab. Here, you’ll see a list of all of your installed processors. To underclock one of them, simply click on it and then use the slider to adjust the clock speed.

Trials and Errors

Like overclocking, underclocking, too, requires some trials and errors. Sometimes the voltages need to be higher for the processor to maximise its full potential. It is advisable to go down a couple of points at a time when underclocking and not more than 5-10 points when overclocking on the under-volt settings. It is advisable to check similar settings on the internet to get the best results as tried and tested by more experienced users. Under-volt and sometimes underclocking with more headroom for boost allows the processor to perform great under increased stress loads, especially when gaming for long. PCs produce heat with vigorous power delivery, and controlling it on some parameters allows us to enjoy the best of PC performance while allowing us to beat the heat. 

Protect Our Planet – Significance of Earth Day

There was a time in History when a corporation-owned factory could cause black clouds of toxic smoke in the air and dump tonnes of toxic waste into a nearby water stream without facing any consequences. There was no legal body to regulate harm to the environment as no EPA, Clean Air Act, or Clean Water Act was in place. However, things changed drastically in 1970 when US Senator Gaylord Nelson created Earth Day to make environmental issues a national agenda and eventually an international one. 

Over 50 years down the line, Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22 and holds great significance not just among environmentalists but also among the general public. Before we go on to the theme of Earth Day 2023. Here is a brief history of the day which celebrated Mother Earth – 

History of Earth Day

Gaylord Nelson was a junior senator from Wisconsin who had grave concerns surrounding the deteriorating environment in the United States. It was back in January 1969 when he witnessed the horrors of a massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California. Nelson was inspired by the student anti-war movement and wanted to bring the same enthusiasm to issues like water and air pollution. He announced the idea of a teach-in on college campuses to US media and chose Pete McCloskey as his co-chair. The campus teach-ins were organized by Denis Hayes, a 22-year-old activist on April 22. 

Denis Hayes understood the movement’s potential to inspire all Americans leading him to build a national staff consisting of 85 people to promote events across the country. Soon, other faith groups and organizations latched on to the cause leading to ‘Earth Day’ as we know it today. The name change to Earth Day quickly sparked interest among the media eventually inspiring 20 million Americans to show their support. 

Groups already in place fighting individually against oil spills, raw sewage, toxic dumps, and other environmental causes united on Earth Day as they shared common values. In a rare political alignment, both the Democratic and Republican parties pledged their support to Earth Day in 1970. The end of Earth Day in 1970 led to the formation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency which introduced a number of environment-centric acts. It was back in 1990 when Denis Hayes took Earth Day on a global scale. Senator Nelson also earned a Presidential Medal of Freedom for his role in the formation of Earth Day. 

Current Significance

This will be the first time an Earth Day theme is being continued into the next year. Last year’s ‘Invest in Our Planet’ theme will be acting as the continuation of the 2023 theme which is focused on engaging businesses, governments, institutions, and more than a billion people who participate in Earth Day activities to their part. Kathleen Rogers, the President of EARTHDAY.Org previously shared the vision for 2023 saying, “In 2023 we must come together again in partnership for the planet. Businesses, governments, and civil society are equally responsible for taking action against the climate crisis and lighting the spark to accelerate change towards a green, prosperous, and equitable future. We must join together in our fight for the green revolution and for the health of future generations. The time is now to Invest In Our Planet,” 

An official press release by the Earth Day organization announcing 2023’s theme shared that investing in a green economy is the only path to a prosperous future. The statement adds furthermore that human influence is unequivocally to blame for the warming of the planet and some form of climate disruption will now be felt for centuries to come. 

Not just governments, but businesses and humans all need to work together to bring about the revolutionary progress required to save the planet. Here’s how this is achievable – 

1. Businesses including investors and financial markets need to drive value for their institutions and society through green innovations and practices. There have been multiple economic revolutions in the past powered by the private sector which now needs to emphasize the green revolution. 

2. Governments need to incentivize their citizens, businesses and institutions to innovate sustainable practices. Additionally, educating the general public and advancing their interest in creating an equitable and sustainable global system is also required. 

3. Citizens at an individual level need to push for sustainable solutions across the board as both voters and consumers. A push from the citizens can motivate governments to take proactive steps in conserving the environment while moving towards green development. The voice of the people holds great significance in making the changes the planet needs right now.

Earth Day Facts You Probably Didn’t Know 

1. April 22 was chosen as the date for Earth Day because it fell between Spring Break and final exams leading to maximum student involvement

2. About 10 per cent of the US population took part in the first Earth Day demonstration 

3. The passage of the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts was inspired by the first Earth Day in 1970 

4. Nearly 1 billion people across the globe take part in Earth Day activities 

5. On Earth Day 2022, 28 million trees were planted in Afghanistan under the ‘Planet Trees Not Bombs’ campaign

6. Humans today use 50 per cent more natural resources than we did 30 years ago

7. An average American today produces 4.5 pounds of trash every day 

8.Nearly 80 per cent of all plastic waste ever created by humans is still in the environment

Creator of the Month – Shivya Nath

Shivya Nath is a well-known travel blogger, author, and speaker who has inspired thousands worldwide to pursue a more mindful and sustainable approach to travel. Born and raised in India, Shivya quit her corporate job at 23 to travel the world and share her stories through her blog, The Shooting Star. Her work has been featured in numerous publications and is recognised as one of the leading voices in responsible tourism. Today, Shivya continues to travel the world, sharing her experiences and insights with her followers while advocating for a more responsible and sustainable approach to travel. Let’s see what’s her thought on sustainability.

Exhibit: What inspired you to become a climate activist, and how did you get involved in this cause?

Shivya Nath: We’re living through a climate emergency – which is not just an environmental issue but also intersects with gender, social justice, biodiversity and much more. As a travel writer and storyteller, I’ve been lucky enough to witness the incredible beauty of our planet but also how climate change is changing entire landscapes and cultures. It’s almost impossible to tell real travel stories without addressing how climate change is impacting the places we visit and advocating for climate action both within the industry and globally.

Ex. How do you think technology can help address climate change, and what role does it play in the fight against climate change?

Shivya: Technology has a major role to play, both in mitigation and adaptation. In order to stay under 1.5°C of warming, we need to scale renewable energy and carbon capture and storage technologies to complement reduced consumption and nature-based solutions. To adapt to the unavoidable impacts of climate change, we need advanced technology to predict erratic weather changes and extreme weather events.

Ex. In your opinion, what lifestyle changes can individuals make to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future?

Shivya: We can play an important role in driving climate action by urging the organisations we work for to measure and reduce their Scope 1 & 2 emissions and work with their value chains to reduce Scope 3 emissions. By making climate change a political issue, we can also intimidate local, regional and national governments to consider it in their daily decision-making. In our personal lives, actions like reducing consumption, installing renewable energy, choosing low-carbon transport, opting for a plant-based diet, segregating, composting and recycling waste, and flying less can make for meaningful sustainability choices.

Ex. What are some of the most pressing environmental challenges that we face today, and how can we work together to address them?

Shivya: We’re simultaneously facing the interlinked crises of climate and biodiversity. The first step is to educate ourselves on what is happening, why, and what needs to be in the bigger picture. As we learn, we can use our voice, online or offline, to create awareness among our friends, families and social media followers.

Ex: How do you stay motivated and engaged in this cause, despite the many obstacles and setbacks that you may encounter?

Shivya: We don’t have a choice! To give up is to accept that we’ll hit 1.5, or worse, 2°C of warming, leading to a colossal loss of human and non-human lives.

Ex: Can you talk about a particular project or initiative that you have been involved in that has made a positive impact on the environment?

Shivya: I recently founded Climate Conscious Travel, an impact consultancy with destinations and businesses to integrate community-centric climate action into tourism offerings. This includes developing carbon-neutral trips, climate change communication through tourism, and sustainability research and storytelling. Through my blog and Instagram, I also continue my work as a travel storyteller creating awareness about sustainable tourism, climate change, zero-waste living, veganism and other interlinked areas.

Ex: How do you balance the need for immediate action on climate change with the need for long-term solutions and systemic change?

Shivya: The two are interlinked. A change in climate policies today, for instance, will pave the way for long-term solutions and systemic change. We’ve already seen this in the growth of electric vehicles and some renewable energy technologies.

Ex: What do you see as the biggest barriers to progress on climate change, and how can we overcome them?

Shivya: Public apathy is a significant barrier. Suppose we don’t collectively demand bolder climate ambition and action. In that case, there will never be enough political will and sweeping policy changes to do what needs to be done to seek a low-carbon development pathway and avoid the worst impacts of climate change.

Ex: Finally, how do you envision a more sustainable future, and what steps can we take today to make that vision a reality?

Shivya: A sustainable future will be one where we globally curb our emissions and use a mix of nature-based and technological solutions to remove what we’ve already emitted. Such a future will reward a minimalist lifestyle, with things like green electricity grids, sustainable aviation fuel, electric transport, conscious travel, upcycled fashion, and zero-waste alternatives becoming the norm rather than the exception!

Powerful Storytelling for a Greener Planet

When the pandemic hit the world, and we were forced to stay inside, the earth flourished like a heavenly flower. The worldwide lockdown reduced transport activities, resulting in less energy consumption and lower oil demand. Films and documentaries have always played an important role in shaping society as they are powerful tools for inspiring awareness, action, and change. As the world becomes more aware of the impact of human activity on the environment, films and documentaries that explore environmental issues have become insanely popular. With the new ways of filmmaking, we have access to some of the most thought-provoking and innovative ecological films and documentaries of all time. Here are ten of the best:

David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet (2020)

“David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet” is a documentary film that chronicles the remarkable career of naturalist and broadcaster David Attenborough and his lifelong passion for the natural world. The film traces Attenborough’s journey from his early days as a young adventurer to his role as a global advocate for the environment. The film also warns about the devastating impact of human activity on the planet and the urgent need to address the climate crisis. Attenborough’s message is one of hope, however, as he outlines a vision for a sustainable future that includes a shift towards renewable energy and a more harmonious relationship between humanity and the natural world.

The Year Earth Changed (2021)

“The Year Earth Changed” is a nature documentary that explores the dramatic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the environment. The documentary was filmed in 2020, during the global lockdown, the documentary reveals how the sudden absence of human activity has given nature an opportunity to flourish. From deserted city streets to empty beaches, we witness the return of wildlife to once-busy urban areas, the revitalisation of polluted rivers, and the resurgence of marine life in oceans. Through stunning footage captured by drones and cameras, the documentary offers a hopeful message about the resiliency of nature and the potential for positive change if we rethink our relationship with the planet.

The Story of Plastic (2020)

“The Story of Plastic” explores the impact of plastic on the environment, from its production to its disposal. The documentary delves into the global plastic pollution crisis and explores the origins of plastic and its production, as well as the environmental and social impacts caused by plastic waste. The documentary features interviews with activists, scientists, and individuals affected by plastic pollution, highlighting the urgency for systemic change to address the plastic pollution problem. The Story of Plastic aims to raise awareness and inspire individuals and communities to act towards a more sustainable future.

Kiss the Ground (2020)

“Kiss the Ground” is a 2020 documentary film that explores the potential of regenerative agriculture to combat climate change and restore the Earth’s ecosystems. The film takes the viewer through various landscapes worldwide, showcasing real-world examples of regenerative farming practices that have succeeded in improving soil health, increasing biodiversity, and sequestering carbon from the atmosphere. Overall, “Kiss the Ground” offers a hopeful message about the power of individuals and communities to heal the Earth and create a more sustainable future.

2040 (2019)

“2040” is a documentary film directed by Damon Gameau that explores possible solutions to climate change and environmental issues in 2040. Gameau presents a hopeful vision of the future by showcasing innovative technologies and initiatives that could positively impact the planet, such as renewable energy, regenerative agriculture, and sustainable urban design. The film also emphasises the importance of community engagement and individual action in creating a better future, along with encouraging viewers to take action and be part of the solution to climate change.

Seaspiracy (2021)

The documentary, directed by Ali Tabrizi, explores the impact of commercial fishing on marine life and the environment. The film follows Tabrizi as he travels the world interviewing scientists, activists, and fishermen about the fishing industry and its practices. The documentary highlights the devastating effects of overfishing, plastic pollution, and bycatch, as well as the industry’s corruption and lack of regulation.

My Octopus Teacher (2020)

My Octopus Teacher is a documentary film that tells the story of filmmaker Craig Foster’s relationship with an octopus in a kelp forest off the coast of South Africa. After feeling burnt out from his career, Foster starts freediving in the kelp forest and encounters an octopus. He becomes fascinated by the creature’s intelligence and develops a deep connection with her over a year. Through stunning underwater footage and Foster’s narration, the film explores themes of connection, wonder, and the relationship between humans and nature. The documentary won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2021.

Chasing Coral (2017)

Chasing Coral is a documentary film directed by Jeff Orlowski that explores the devastating effects of climate change on coral reefs worldwide. The film follows a team of scientists, divers, and photographers documenting the rapid decline of coral reefs due to rising ocean temperatures and ocean acidification. The film shows the bleaching and death of coral reefs in real time through stunning underwater footage and time-lapse photography. The documentary highlights the urgency of addressing climate change and protecting these vital ecosystems. Chasing Coral won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival in 2017.

The Ivory Game (2016)

“The Ivory Game” is a documentary that explores the illicit ivory trade, which has decimated the elephant population in Africa and fueled organised crime and terrorism. The film follows undercover investigators and activists as they work to expose the complex web of corruption and criminal activity behind the ivory trade, from African poachers to Chinese buyers. It sheds light on the devastating consequences of this trade on the elephants and the communities that rely on them while also highlighting the urgent need for action to save these magnificent animals from extinction.

Fantastic Fungi (2019)

“Fantastic Fungi” is a documentary that explores the fascinating world of mushrooms and their incredible potential to heal, sustain, and regenerate life on Earth. The film takes viewers on a journey through the underground network of mycelium, the vast and intricate web of life that supports the growth and reproduction of fungi. From the ancient traditions of using mushrooms for medicine and spiritual enlightenment to the cutting-edge research being done today on their potential to solve some of the world’s most pressing environmental and social issues, “Fantastic Fungi” is a celebration of the incredible power of nature and the beauty and wonder of the fungal kingdom.

Bonus:

Sea of Shadows (2019)

“Sea of Shadows” is a 2019 documentary film that follows a group of activists, journalists, and scientists as they try to save the endangered vaquita porpoise, which is on the brink of extinction due to illegal fishing practices in the Sea of Cortez. The film focuses on the efforts of a small team of scientists and conservationists who risk their lives to track down and remove illegal fishing nets, known as totoaba nets, which are used to catch a rare fish called the totoaba, whose swim bladder is highly prized in Chinese medicine. The totoaba nets are responsible for trapping and killing vaquita porpoises, often caught in the nets and drowned. As the team races against time to save the vaquita, they confront corrupt officials, dangerous criminal syndicates, and the powerful forces of greed and indifference that threaten to drive the vaquita to extinction.

Women, Women, & Women!

We’re in a month that celebrates women’s milestones and their extraordinary roles in all spheres of society. However, women’s history month holds a more profound significance than just the bells and whistles we see on social media through various trends and hashtags. It is not just an opportunity for men to appreciate women but also the society as a whole to address the issues women face on a daily basis and still excel.

Women are indeed achievers, risk-takers, entrepreneurs, and multi-taskers. Over the years, women have made significant progress in breaking down barriers and overcoming obstacles in various fields. They have demonstrated their ability to lead and succeed in areas previously dominated by men. Women have made remarkable progress in various spheres of life over the past few decades, and their contributions to society are becoming increasingly recognized and valued.

Women are also excellent multi-taskers, balancing their work, family, and social lives with great skill and efficiency. They’re known for their ability to handle many responsibilities simultaneously and still achieve their goals. Women have shown that they can excel in various fields and are capable of achieving great things when given the opportunity. Their contributions to society are invaluable, and we should continue to support and empower women to achieve their full potential. 

Women Entrepreneurs in India: 

India has seen a jump in the number of women entrepreneurs in recent years. Women entrepreneurs are breaking barriers and challenging societal norms to create successful businesses across various industries. They are inspiring other women to take the leap and become entrepreneurs themselves. 

However, women entrepreneurs still face significant challenges, such as gender biases, lack of access to capital, and limited networking opportunities. Efforts are being made to create an environment that supports and encourages women entrepreneurs, including mentorship programs, financial incentives, and policy initiatives.

Challenges Faced by Women Entrepreneurs in India:

Missing Role Models: There is a lack of female role models in the business world, which can make it difficult for women to envision themselves as entrepreneurs.

Social Responsibilities: Women entrepreneurs in India often face the dual burden of running a business and fulfilling their social and familial responsibilities.

Industry Restrictions: Certain industries are more male-dominated than others, making it difficult for women to enter and succeed in these sectors.

Education: A lack of access to education and vocational training can hinder women from developing the necessary skills and knowledge to become successful entrepreneurs.

Ways To Help Women Overcome Barriers:

Access to Capital: Providing access to capital through government schemes or private organizations can help women entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses.

Mentorship and Networking: Connecting women entrepreneurs with successful businesswomen can provide them with guidance, advice, and networking opportunities.

Skill Development and Training: Providing education and training programs tailored to the needs of women entrepreneurs can help them develop the necessary skills to succeed in their businesses.

Policy Changes: Changing policies to promote gender equality, such as promoting property ownership for women or offering tax incentives to women-led businesses, can help address some of the barriers faced by women entrepreneurs.

Awareness and Advocacy: Raising awareness about the challenges women entrepreneurs face and advocating for their rights and opportunities can help create a more supportive environment for female entrepreneurship in India.

Women are mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends, but they are also so much more than that. They are innovators, leaders, and change-makers who have made immeasurable contributions to every aspect of society. From the arts to the sciences, from politics to business, women have broken barriers and shattered glass ceilings, proving time and time again that they are just as capable as their male counterparts.

 

Girls cartoons design, Friendship together friends happy people and young theme Vector illustration

So today, let us celebrate the incredible strength, resilience, and determination of women everywhere. Let us honour their sacrifices and continue to make them, and pledge to support and uplift them in every way possible. Because when women are given the freedom and opportunities to succeed, we all benefit. Here is Exhibit’s special women’s edition where we celebrate the backbone of our society – WOMEN!

In Conversations With – Guru Randhawa

With his soulful voice, catchy tunes, and engaging lyrics, Guru Randhawa has taken the Punjabi music industry by storm and has won the hearts of millions of fans not just in India but across the globe. Besides being a musician, he is a tech-savvy individual who has leveraged the power of technology to reach out to his fans and grow his fan base, along with experimenting with new-age music production techniques.

His ability to blend traditional Punjabi folk music with contemporary pop beats is a testament to his innovative spirit and willingness to embrace new technologies. In this exclusive interview, we delve deeper into Guru Randhawa’s journey as a musician and his thoughts on the intersection of music and technology. We explore the various aspects of his work that have made him a household name in the Indian music industry.

Exhibit: What was it like working with Kapil Sharma on your latest song?

Guru Randhawa: It is always great working with artists whom you admire. Kapil Paaji has been a dear friend since I’ve known him. I love his work, and it was great to collaborate with him on his debut song. While I was shooting for Kapil Sharma’s show, we discussed the idea of making a song together, and I’m glad to see it come to life. The response has been really great as well. 

Ex: How do you think the driving experience has changed over the years as technology and electric vehicles have become more prevalent?

Guru: I think advances in fields of technology are happening at a rapid rate, and the future of cars is electric. In fact, we see a lot of that in developed countries, and it’s making its way to IndiGuru: Driving cars has indeed become a seamless experience with assistance like ADAS and many more. 

Ex: Out of all your songs, which one holds the most emotional value for you?

Guru: My recent song, “Alone”, is very emotional, and I’m currently enjoying that.

Ex: Are there any songs or albums you think are particularly suited for driving, and why?

Guru: I like listening to soundtracks of Hans Zimmer, I enjoy Weekend’s music on drives, some Punjabi legends, and trying out new artists as well. 

Ex: You’ve been in the music industry for over a decade now. How has the journey been? And what advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are just starting out?

Guru: Yes. I’m grateful for everything. God has been kind, and it’s all a blessing! I’m thankful to my fans for their undivided support. Honestly, I’ve grown so much as an individual and artist. Overall, it’s been an enriching experience for me and very special too. As I said, I started my career as an independent artist and always kept at it. I believe one should never give up, keep putting in that effort, and love what you do, even if it is challenging. Consistency transcends into success. 

Ex: How does the experience of driving a car compare to performing on stage or recording music?

Guru: Yes, both activities involve adventure and thrill. Sometimes both are really relaxing as well. Each day is a new experience that I look forward to. 

Ex: You’ve collaborated with many different artists over the years, from Pitbull to Jay Sean. Who would you like to work with next, and why?

Guru: I would love to collaborate with Bruno Mars because I absolutely love his music. 

Ex: Your music often blends traditional Punjabi sounds with modern beats and rhythms. How do you balance these two influences in your work?

Guru: I think it comes to me naturally, maybe because I was born in a village in Punjab and later moved to Delhi for higher studies. So I think both places have had their influences on my music and style. 

Ex: Your song “Lahore” became a massive hit, with over 1 billion views on YouTube. Did you expect it to become so popular, and what do you think made it resonate with so many people?

Guru: Well, I think it is the simplicity of the song that makes it easier for people to connect. 

Ex: You’re known for your energetic live performances. How do you prepare for a show, both mentally and physically?

Guru: Yes, of course, we work hard on our live shows regarding a set list, rehearsals and production. Not just for live shows, but otherwise, on a regular basis, I take care of my health. 

Ex: Do you think there is a connection between music and driving, and if so, how would you describe it?

Guru: Yes. Music has a connection with everything. It’s the rhythm of life. It enhances the state of mind and is the best company while driving. I like listening to my songs first in the car, which gives me the right feel about them.

Top 17 roaring unicorns in India

Intro

What is a unicorn startup? The term unicorn refers to privately held companies valued at over $1 billion. India’s startup ecosystem is home to a number of well-known and emerging unicorn startups, out of which Flipkart is the most notable and most successful unicorn startup. The success of Flipkart has been driven by the rapid adoption of online shopping in India and the company’s ability to adapt quickly to the changing market. 

Besides Flipkart, there are about 108* unicorn startups in India, but here, we’re only focusing on the 17 unicorns, which are a mix of already emerged and a few emerging ones, as we’re focusing more on the behind-the-scenes stories. Over the last 10-15 years, India’s unicorn startups have not only made a significant impact in their respective sectors but also have become a symbol of the country’s rapidly growing technology and startup ecosystem.


  • Byju’s

Industry – EdTech

Founded in – 2011

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2018

Tagline – Fall in love with learning

Valuation $22 billion

Founders – Byju Raveendran and Divya Gokulnath

Parent Organization – Think and Learn Private Ltd

The Story – 

Byju Raveendran, a B.Tech graduate from a small town in Kerala, was working in a multinational shipping firm as a service engineer. In 2023, he started helping his friends prepare for the CAT entrance exam, as he had a burning desire to make a difference in the field of learning and teaching. While preparing, out of curiosity, he decided to appear in the exam and scored 100%.

Later, he started conducting free mathematical workshops but realised there had to be a better way to teach and learn. Determined to make a change, Byju and his co-founder wife, Divya Gokulnath, started working on a new learning platform, where he offered interactive video lessons on a wide range of subjects, from mathematics and science to history and geography.

The platform they created was designed to make learning more fun and engaging and to help students easily understand complex concepts. Today we call that platform, Byju’s, and it has over 150 million registered students and is valued at $22 billion. With its strong focus on technology, innovation, and scalability, Byju’s is well-positioned for continued growth in the future.

A quote from the founder that can change your perspective

“Education is the single most powerful tool that can shape the way our youth thinks” – Byju Raveendran


  • CRED

Industry – FinTech

Founded in – 2018

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2021

Tagline Suraksha Aur Bharosa Dono

Valuation $6.4 billion

Founders – Kunal Shah

Parent Organization – Dream plug Technologies Pvt. Ltd.

The Story – 

When you’re determined to make your dreams come true, you work tirelessly to build them, and Kunal Shah is one such hard-working individual. He began his career as a software engineer before venturing into the world of entrepreneurship with PaisaBack and FreeCharge. After the acquisition of FreeCharge, he founded CRED in 2018, as he wanted to offer more privileges and benefits to people having good credit scores.

The company was started with a mission to make credit card payments simple and transparent for consumers as the industry was plagued by hidden charges and confusing terms and conditions. CRED was always focused on building a strong brand, and one of the key factors that contributed to the company’s success was its focus on customer experience, which helped the company earn over 7 million users.

What’s next?

To enable a good life for creditworthy individuals.

A quote from the founder that can change your perspective

‘If you look at history, nobody has been rewarded for paying back on time. We want to fix that.’ – Kunal Shah


  • Dream11

Industry – Fantasy Sports Platform

Founded in – 2008

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2019

Tagline – Jab Dream bada ho, toh koi akela nahi hota. Dream Big, Dream11!

Valuation $8 billion

Founders – Bhavit Sheth & Harsh Jain

Parent Organization – Sporta Technologies

The Story – 

Every sports fan likes to spend a lot of time discussing their favourite teams and players, but not everyone ends up founding an app for fans to participate in fantasy sports. Harsh Jain and Bhavit Sheth are two such sport-packed souls who saw an opportunity to create a platform that would allow sports fans to create their own teams and compete against each other for prizes.

Without hesitation, Harsh and Bhavit quit their jobs and started their own company in 2008, Dream11. The company has always ensured that it complies with all laws and regulations related to fantasy sports in the countries it operates, which has helped to build trust with users and regulators. Along with cricket today, the platform allows users to play fantasy hockey, football, kabaddi, basketball, volleyball, etc.

To stay on the success path, Dream11 made strategic partnerships with major sports leagues and teams, such as the Indian Premier League and the Pro Kabaddi League. Currently, the company has a presence in many countries, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, while the founders have inspired countless individuals to pursue their own dreams of entrepreneurship.


  • Swiggy

Industry – Online Food Ordering and Delivery Platform

Founded in – 2014

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2018

Tagline – Swiggy karo, phir jo chahe karo!

Valuation $10.7 billion

Founders – Sriharsha Majety, Nandan Reddy and Rahul Jaimini

Parent Organization – Bundl Technologies

The Story – 

By the time you’ve reached here, you might have ordered something on Swiggy, which speaks volumes about its popularity. The start-up was founded in 2014 by Sriharsha Majety, Nandan Reddy, and Rahul Jaimini, who saw a gap in the market for an efficient and reliable food delivery service in India. On one hot summer day, Sriharsha and Nandan realised the need for better online food delivery options in India as the existing options were slow, unreliable, and the food often arrived cold.

They developed a food delivery app and named it ‘Bundl’ in 2013 but decided to shut it down within a year as they wanted to brainstorm more on the delivery process. While brainstorming, they met Rahul Jaimin and decided to start the Start-up with the name Swiggy. The user-friendly app gained a lot of engagement in a short period, made good returns and significantly changed the food delivery industry. Today, besides India, Swiggy is also operational in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

What’s next?

To elevate the quality of life of urban consumers by providing unparalleled convenience.


  • Fractal Analytics

Industry – AI

Founded in – 2000

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2022

Valuation – $1 billion

Founders – Srikanth Velamakanni, Pranay Agrawal, Nirmal Palaparthi, Pradeep Suryanarayan and Ramakrishna Reddy

The Story – 

Some start-ups take a couple of years to achieve what they’re looking for, while some take decades to achieve the same. Fractal Analytics is an AI company that provides consumer packaged goods, insurance, healthcare, life sciences, retail, and technology services. It was founded in 2000 by five graduates from IIM Ahmedabad in Mumbai when the word start-up was less mainstream than it is today. Due to internal conflict, it took Fractal over 20 years to earn a unicorn tag.

In 2005, the company decided to move the business to the US, as the country was home to a massive number of clients. However, in a couple of years, two of the co-founders took an exit from the company. Things took a turn when along with two co-founders, the company lost one of its key clients. The circumstances attempted to stop Fractal from getting a tag of a unicorn for over a decade, but the company continued to evolve over the years and improved its platform until it became a unicorn in 2022.


  • Tata 1mg

Industry – E-pharmacy Platform

Founded in – 2015

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2022

Tagline – Bringing care to health

Valuation $1.25 billion

Founders Prashant Tandon, Gaurav Agarwal and Vikas Chauhan

Parent Organization – Tata Digital Limited

The Story – 

Where there’s a will, there’s a TATA, but the backstory of Tata 1mg is something you should know and take notes on. The startup was initially launched as Healthkartplus in 2013, the time when people, especially Indians, started trying their hands at online shopping, be it for books, gadgets, etc. The journey of 1mg began as a consumer awareness platform, helping them learn about their medicines while also comparing prices of the various alternatives for the brand that they were prescribed.

Initially, there were just three employees (only the founders), Prashant Tandon, Gaurav Agarwal, and Vikas Chauhan, but today 1mg has over 200 members across multiple locations throughout India. Back then, there were very few trustworthy online pharmacies in India, which helped 1mg become the most trusted name in the industry in a short time. In June 2021, Tata Digital acquired a majority stake in 1mg, and the company got a new name – Tata 1 mg.

A quote from the founder that can change your perspective

“We must learn to survive, and then we will thrive – Prashant Tandon


  • LivSpace

Industry – Home Renovation & Interior Designing

Founded in – 2014

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2022

Tagline – Hassle-free dream home interiors for any budget

Valuation $1.2 billion

Founders – Anuj Srivastava & Ramakant Sharma

The Story – 

You might have seen the TVC of Livspace starring Virat Kohli (in a TURBAN) and Anushka Sharma. The story of Livspace began when the founders set out to design their dream homes and discovered the industry needed to be more integrated. The omnichannel home interior and renovation company was founded by a Google veteran, Anuj Srivastava & his IIT-Kanpur classmate Ramakant Sharma in 2014. Shagufta Anurag, the founder of Space Matrix, was also the company’s co-founder.

The start-up saves you from all the hustle and bustle you have to deal with, from carpenters to plumbers and confusing rates to unreliable schedules. The designers at Livspace create a mock-up for the customer using Livspace’s proprietary software, and once accepted by the client, they hire third-party contractors to get the job done. Livspace earned the title of a unicorn when it successfully raised $180 million in a round led by KKR, taking the value of the firm to over 1$ billion.


  • OYO Rooms

Industry – Hospitality

Founded in – 2013

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2018

Tagline – #AurKyaChahiye

Valuation $9 billion

Founders – Ritesh Agarwal

Parent Organization – Oravel Stays Limited

The Story – 

How often have you stayed at the hotel while on vacation or outing? The chances are at least 10-15 times in your lifetime. Well, the founder of OYO rooms, Ritesh Agarwal, used to travel a lot from the age of 17 and every time he stayed at the hotels, he experienced the scarcity of quality hotels, especially in the budget segment. To help people from having such a horrible experience, he launched Oravel Stays, an online portal for vacation rentals.

The platform collapsed in a short time, but two fortunate things happened. First, the relationships Ritesh had formed with hotel owners helped him a lot and secondly, he got an opportunity of the Thiel Fellowship, a two-year program from PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel. During his stay fellowship in California, he relaunched Oravel Stays as OYO Hotels & Homes to create India’s largest chain of affordable, standardised hotels.

As soon as he arrived in India, he started reaching out to the hotel owners he had worked with earlier during his days at Oravel Stays. With all the hard work, he managed to acquire rooms in hotels across the country and transformed them into OYO, which boosted the hotel’s occupancy rates from 19% to 90% in the first month only. Today, Oyo rooms are widely distributed all over India, in more than 800 cities, with more than 23,000 hotels and 850,000 rooms.

A quote from the founder that can change your perspective

“Start small, nail it and then make it big – Ritesh Agarwal”


  • Meesho

Industry – Retail and E-commerce

Founded in – 2015

 

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2021

Tagline – Not just a homemaker, a Meesho Entrepreneur

Valuation $4.9 billion

Founders – Vidit Aatrey and Sanjeev Barnwal

Parent Organization – Meesho Inc

The Story – 

Another startup co-founded by IITians. Now a unicorn, Meesho started as a reseller platform allowing users to resell products via their social channels such as WhatsApp, Instagram etc. The founders, Vidit Aatrey and Sanjeev Barnwal started the company with the goal of empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs in India. In the early days, the team focused on building a solid product and acquiring users through word-of-mouth and referral marketing.

Within a few months, they realised that their target market was primarily women in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities looking for flexible and low-cost ways to earn income and decided to tailor their product and marketing strategies to serve this demographic better. In 2017, the startup raised $3.4 million in a seed funding round, which allowed them to expand and invest in team, technology and infrastructure. Today, Meesho has over 15 million registered sellers and reaches over 200 million customers.

What’s next?

A quote from the founder that can change your perspective

“For growth, focus on your customers. Nothing else matters. – Vidit Aatrey and Sanjeev Barnwal”


  • upGrad

Industry – EdTech

Founded in – 2015

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2021

Tagline – A journey as dynamic as us

Valuation $2.25 billion

Founders – Ronnie Screwvala, Mayank Kumar, Phalgun Kompalli, and Ravijot Chugh

Parent Organization – UpGrad Education Pvt. Ltd

The Story – 

We’ve various e-learning options for students, but what about professionals looking to upgrade their careers? Yes, the same thought was the base of upGrad, an EdTech startup founded in 2015 by Ronnie Screwvala, Phalgun Kompalli, Mayank Kumar, and Ravijot Chugh. The journey of upGrad began with the goal of providing quality education to working professionals and students in India looking to upskill and advance their careers. 

Like the rest of the startups, upGrad faced several challenges, including a need for more awareness and understanding of online education in India but managed to conquer all the crises that came in way. The company started with just a single program, in digital marketing and within a short while but quickly expanded its offerings to include programs in data science, software engineering, and business management.

A quote from the founder that can change your perspective

“Failure never stopped anybody who didn’t want to be stopped – Ronnie Screwvala”


  • Zomato

Industry – Online Food Ordering and Delivery Platform

Founded in – 2008

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2015

Tagline – Every meal matters

Valuation $5.4 Billion

Founders – Deepinder Goyal, Gaurav Gupta, and Pankaj Chaddah

The Story –  

Back in the 2000s, writing a food review was rare, as people only used to follow word of mouth instead of looking for the review on the internet. The founders of Zomato were working at Bain & Co in New Delhi when they came up with the idea of Foodiebay, now known as Zomato. At first, it started as a food blog, providing information about restaurants in the Delhi region and by providing restaurant information, including menus, prices, and user reviews, through its website and mobile app.

In only nine months, FoodieBay became Delhi’s most preferred restaurant directory, and the founders decided to start the services in Mumbai and Kolkata. In 2010, the name Foodiebay was officially changed to ‘Zomato’, and since then, the company has grown to become one of the most popular food delivery apps in India and across the globe. The company also faced major hurdles during their decade-long journey and always bounced back with a better solution to thrive the crises.

Info Edge (India) played a huge role in the formation of Zomato as they were the first to invest about US$ 1 million when the startup did not have enough funds to start the app. By 2013, Zomato expanded its business in foreign countries such as Sri Lanka, UAE, Qatar, South Africa, the UK, the Philippines, New Zealand, Turkey, and Brazil. Since 2014, Zomato has acquired Poland’s Gastronauci, Italy’s Cibando, and  US-based online table reservation platform NexTable.

A quote from the founder that can change your perspective

“When you are still building an organization, don’t be defensive about your culture –  Deepinder Goyal”


  • Ola Electric

Industry – Automotive

Founded in – 2017

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2019

Tagline – Ready or not, a revolution is coming

Valuation $5+ Billion

Founders – Bhavish Aggarwal

Parent Organization – Ola Cabs

The Story –  

EVs are the key to a sustainable future, and Ola Electric wanted to take the lead. The company was founded by the electric vehicle arm of Indian ride-hailing giant Ola with an aim to make electric mobility accessible and affordable for all by deploying a fleet of electric vehicles (EVs) and building a network of charging infrastructure across the country.

The journey of Ola Electric began with the launch of a pilot project in Nagpur, Maharashtra, in 2017. Ola Electric, which started making two-wheelers in 2021, will introduce the sportiest car ever manufactured in India with an electric vehicle that has a range of more than 500 km and even accelerates from 0-100 in less than 4 seconds.

Ola Electric also entered into a partnership with leading automakers such as Mahindra and Tata Motors to develop and manufacture electric vehicles in India. Today, Ola Electric has a fleet of thousands of electric vehicles on the road and more than 100 charging stations in multiple cities across India and is valued at over $5 billion.

A quote from the founder that can change your perspective

“Don’t take shortcuts while building your company, keep trying for the best – Bhavish Aggarwal”


  • Vedantu

Industry – EdTech

Founded in – 2011

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2021

Tagline – Live Online Tutoring

Valuation $1 Billion

Founders: Vamsi Krishna, Pulkit Jain, Saurabh Saxena & Anand Prakash

Parent Organization – MTEducare

The Story –  

Bangalore has been a fortress of EdTech platforms, and in the case of Vedantu, it all began with private lessons to a handful of students in their local community. The online tutoring platform was initially founded in 2011 but launched for the public in October 2014. The EdTech platform was founded by four friends from the IITs who were passionate about education and wanted to make a difference in the lives of students – Vamsi Krishna, Pulkit Jain, Saurabh Saxena, and Anand Prakash.

Vedantu provides services to students from grades 4th to 12th for the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) & Central Board of Secondary Education. The EdTec platform uses an innovative Whiteboard Audio Video Education (WAVE) program for their 1-1 student-teacher live sessions. The EdTech company provides education to students with both free and paid classes options and aims to provide test preparation courses for the JEE, NTSE, and PSA exams in the future.


  • PharmEasy

Industry Pharmaceutical 

Founded in – 2015

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2021

Tagline – Take it easy, PharmEasy

Valuation $5.6 Billion

Founders: Dharmil Sheth and Dr Dhaval Shah

Parent Organization – API Holdings Private Limited

The Story – 

Back in 2014, when people were experiencing door-to-door delivery services from the brands like Zomato, Flipkart, Swiggy, and Amazon, the founders of PharmEasy thought, why not deliver health care items right at the door in the same way? The pharmaceutical industry in our country is one of the poorly organised industries, but no one was complaining about it until you’re travelling hundreds of kilometres to buy one tablet.

Dharmil Sheth and Dr Dhawal Shah co-founded PharmEasy in 2014 with the goal of making healthcare a lot more accessible in India. The duo created a healthcare delivery platform to simplify and modernise the healthcare setup in India. Thanks to the digitisation of the pharmaceutical industry, we can now order our medicines online from the comfort of our homes, without any hustle and with the most budget-friendly rates.

A quote from the founder that can change your perspective

“Your belief in yourself will drive everything around you. – Dharmil Sheth”


  • Razorpay

Industry – FinTech

Founded in – 2014

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2020

Tagline – #Powering Disruptors

Valuation $7.5 Billion

Founders: Dharmil Sheth and Dr Dhaval Shah

The Story –  

Seeing an Indian company leading the pack is rare, but Razorpay has achieved it in the payment sector. It started as a project to solve the problem of online payments and has since grown into one of the prominent members of the coveted unicorn club. Before co-founding Razorpay, Harshil Mathur and Shashank Kumar decided to work on a crowdfunding platform, but soon, the duo realised that online payment was a problem for small & medium-sized (SME) businesses, particularly e-commerce platforms.

The founders of Razorpay, Shashank and Harshil, studied Mechanical Engineering at NIT Allahabad and IIT Bombay, respectively. They first met on a train journey, and while conversing, they both got stuck on one question – how to accept payments online. They offered lower fees than their counterparts as they wanted to revolutionise payment options and access to several online payment methods for business entities, including credit & debit cards, net banking, and UPI.

A quote from the founder that can change your perspective

“Throwing things around in the calendar does not help… maintain a to-do list – Harshil Mathur”


  • Groww

Industry – FinTech

Founded in – 2017

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2021

Tagline – There’s just one right way

Valuation $5 Billion

Founders: Lalit Keshre, Harsh Jain, Neeraj Singh, and Ishan Bansal

Parent Organization – Nextbillion Technology

The Story –  

Spending time with the right people can take you to the right places. Earlier, when it came to investing, people had to do a lot of paperwork and bank visits and stand in long queues, but now we have various options. Today, with startups like Groww, to begin investing and managing your wealth, you need a few things – a bank account, some disposable income, and a smartphone. Groww is one of several startups that have aroused the curiosity of investors.

The startup was founded in 2016 by four former Flipkart workers, Lalit Keshre, Harsh Jain, Neeraj Singh, and Ishan Bansal. The platform was started to make investing more accessible to young people by simplifying the process, and it uses technology to reach the right audience, reducing its operational expense. Groww offers various services to consumers by providing investment offerings in mutual funds, stocks, IPO, and digital gold.

A quote from the founder that can change your perspective

“Always try to understand the business first and then the price of the stock – Ishan Bansal”

 

  • Urban Company

Industry – Household Services

Founded in – 2014

Entered the Unicorn Club in – 2021

Valuation $2.1 Billion

Founders: Abhiraj Singh Bhal, Raghav Chandra and Varun Khaitan

Parent Organization – UrbanClap Technologies India Pvt. Ltd.

The Story –  

Who empowered professionals from the industries like massage, cleaning and salon? A startup founded by three great minds, Abhiraj Singh Bhal, Raghav Chandra and Varun Khaitan, named Urban Company. Before founding Urban Company, Abhiraj and Varun launched Cinemabox, a service that allowed travellers to stream movies on their phones on planes, trains or buses, which lasted for only 6 months.

Later on, they met Raghav and during one of their intense conversations, they understood the country was lying behind the in-home services market, like finding the right plumber, electrician, or beautician. Right then, they decided to work on the idea and founded Urban Company, formerly UrbanClap, in 2014. Today, it has more than 40,000 service partners across 50+ cities in India, the UAE, Singapore, Australia and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

What’s next?

The company plans to expand and train and upskill 5 lakh service partners, of which 2 lakh will be women partners, by 2030.

Acer x Mercedes – Gaming Becomes Mobile

If you’re anywhere in the PC gaming scene then you surely know about the Predator gaming laptop series by Acer. The Predator series is known to be one of if not the best gaming laptops around the world and we at Exhibit use a number of Predator machines as our daily driver’s thanks for their dependability. Our extensive testing of the Predator Helios 300 has only left us amazed with its gaming performance.

Being a car enthusiast and frequent traveller, a big chunk of my time I spent with cars, and sadly sitting in a car playing games is a hassle in itself. But what if I told you that a new car on the market allows you to play games right on its screen? That’s right! 

The latest EV by Mercedes, the AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ is a one of its kind luxury offering that widens the horizons of what an electric car can provide its customers.

The Sedan EV has a height of 1515 mm and a width of 1926 mm. The exterior of the car is eye-catching, especially its front, which features a dual light band coupled with the front bonnet that beautifully overlaps the wings. The digital lamps are bright and feature 1.3 million pixels per headlamp which are enough to light up your way effectively. 

The brightness of the digital lamps is furthermore enhanced and controlled by the Adaptive high beam assist plus, which features an anti-dazzle continuous high beam. The rear light band features a 3D helix design, and the tailgate opening features that classy Mercedes Star badge. The light game does not end here, as the car also features an illuminated aesthetic door handle that adds to the overall appeal of this sexy-looking car. 

When I talked about gaming at the beginning, I told you that a new car in the market allows people to play games on its screen. Well, that’s none other than, the Mercedes AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ which offers MBUX Hyperscreen where you can play Tetris, Pairs, and Sudoku.

The Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ offers a battery backup of up to 500 kms in one go, while the Predator Helios 300 offers a battery backup of up to 5 hours and 30 minutes. The interior of the car is designed with a sporty touch. It features an AMG performance steering wheel in crisp Nappa Leather that feels good to hold, it also features AMG sports pedals for your ease. The highlight of the interior is definitely the Hyperscreen, that’s 141 cm wide and has AI capabilities to learn driver behavior. It also features 7 co-driver profiles for content individualisation. Thus, you and your loved ones can all gain an individual experience while driving this car.

Another interesting factor is the profile log-in that can be accessed with fingerprint, face, or voice! It is an OLED screen that is backed by Gorilla Glass protection. Besides, the driver need not get overwhelmed by this screen itself as their attention can always be focused on the road. The Head Up Display allows you to locate all the information about your speed, range, and other important information on the front itself without having to look down at the display; that’s definitely something we’ve seen in sci-fi films!

What we have here is also an option to set your car’s interior lighting as per your mood with active ambient lighting. But it’s not the people in the front seat who have all the fun, as people sitting behind can also retain all the control with the help of the MBUX tablet.

Talking about the performance of this car – It features AMG Dynamic Select driving modes that can be set to Moderate, Comfort, balanced, Sport+, Powerful, Dynamic, and more. That’s enough driving modes to make the kid in you happy. It comes with fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive which means the system continuously distributes and drives torques between the front and rear axles depending on the driving situation. 

The car’s torque is checked 10,000 times per minute and adjusted whenever necessary. It features over 350+ sensors like 12x ultrasonic sensors, moisture sensors, 4x module mode radar, LiDAR, multiple cameras, and much more. We are sure you’ve heard about fast charging on phones, but Mercedes offers it on a car with 30-minute fast charge in DC charging that can take the car from 10 to 80 per cent in just 30 minutes. It can support 200 Kw of max charging with a range of over 500 kms. 

The whole reason behind people going for EVs is because they’re good for the environment, and Mercedes has hit the ball out of the park with its new offering, as the majority of its elements have been sourced from recycled products ranging from steel to cable ducts and even the floor coverings.

When a brand like Mercedes brings its A-Game to the EV car market, the result is the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+. The car is designed to cater to both the adult and the kid inside you, which makes it a perfect package for EV enthusiasts. 

The car is without a doubt, designed for tech enthusiasts who wish to own a luxury EV that is ahead of its curve. In contrast, the Acer Predator 300 is designed for working professionals who are into gaming on weekends. The car and the laptop bring a style statement to your life by offering features of the best of both worlds!

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