In a remarkable shift in branding and marketing dynamics, social media influencers are now taking center stage, connecting with audiences in ways that traditional Bollywood celebrities once dominated. Recognizing this evolving trend, Times Applaud Pvt Ltd hosted ‘The Trends Award 2024’ on October 19, 2024, at the Ginger Hotel in Mumbai, the financial and entertainment capital of India. The event celebrated the significant contributions of digital creatives who inspire, entertain, and lead mass audiences across various platforms.
The award show attracted a vibrant assembly of social media influencers, dignitaries, and industry leaders, uniting them in a celebration of innovation and excellence in contemporary storytelling. Among the distinguished guests was the Guest of Honour, veteran actor Ranjeet, celebrated for his iconic negative roles in Bollywood. His presence added a nostalgic touch and a sense of prestige to the evening.
Founders and Directors Mr. Tausif Patel and Mr. Sunil Pandey, along with CEO Mr. Nitin Gohil of Times Applaud Pvt Ltd, extended a warm welcome to the chief guest and sponsor, Dr. Basant Goel, CEO of Goel Medicos and a globally recognized philanthropist. The ceremony commenced with traditional lamp lighting and the felicitation of dignitaries, setting a celebratory tone for the night.
As the event unfolded, Ranjeet shared insightful thoughts on the significance of these awards and the growing influence of social media stars. He remarked, “Earlier, the audience used to get influenced by the film fraternity alone, but now there is a shift in society’s thought process. The growing influence of social media in shaping contemporary narratives and connecting people worldwide is enormous.”
A total of 35 awards were presented to trailblazers who exemplify unique voices and impactful contributions. Each winner radiated enthusiasm as they accepted their accolades, underscoring the value of these recognitions in their journeys. Among the honorees was Dheerendra Kumar Gupta, an Entrepreneur based in Indore, who leads Buzz Deal Services, an IT company with over 2,000 online business platforms ranging from e-commerce to job portals. Gupta’s company operates not just in India but also in international markets including the UK, USA, Hong Kong, Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
The Trends Award 2024 successfully highlighted the transformative power of social media and the influencers who are reshaping the narrative landscape, making it clear that in today’s digital age, the voice of the influencer is more impactful than ever.
