MUMBAI: Minster of textile, information & broadcasting Smriti Irani, addressing a gathering of media, advertising and marketing industry stalwarts, said: "All I implore today to the industry stalwarts is that we now, in a systemic fashion, build a platform that takes care of those who need help, specially from the creative faction of the industry. I hope that, one day, on this stage, some of us will stand here to applaud an Indian media company that has made it at the global stage.”

The Advertising Club (TAC) India hosted the inaugural edition of the unique 'Marquee Awards' in Mumbai. Presented by News18 India, powered by Colors and MTV and partnered by One India, the event was flagged off by Irani as the chief guest of honour.

Hindustan Unilever won the coveted Green Marketer Award, which honors brands that have strived and conquered, by keeping a close focus on environment sustainability. The Special Award for “Conquering an impregnable fortress” was won by Bira 91. Pro Kabaddi League was recognised as the brand that “Traversed unchartered waters” and Paytm was recognized for “Riding on an emerging wave”.  Honda Motorcycle & Scooter was awarded for “Breathing new life into a category”, Indian Accent was recognized for “Creating a Global Impact” while Oppo was recognized for “Carving out a Niche” for themselves in a highly competitive category.

Making a special mention of the 'Global Impact' category, Irani said,  “Having been a part of this journey, I have just one appeal this evening - while we sell dreams to the nation and world, there are many amongst us who wither away with the passage of time. We now build a platform that takes care of the creative faction so that the world does not accuse us selling dreams but living a lie."

The Advertising Club president Raj Nayak said, “Marquees 2017 has emerged as the gold standard in marketing awards. I thank the minister Smriti Irani for gracing the maiden edition of Marquees 2017."

Marquees 2017 chairman and BARC India CEO Partho Dasgupta said, “The debut edition of Marquees has set a new benchmark of excellence by recognising brands that have challenged the communication archetype in the industry, thus appealing to the evolved consumer of today. These awards through their differentiated scope, right from the jury panel to representation to categories, has ensured that they are a marketer’s dream.”

A+E Networks | TV18 managing director and Network18 president Avinash Kaul said, “At News18 India, we identify with the spirit of celebrating brands that drive positive change. News18 India, as a brand, has also undergone a transformation after the rebranding exercise and the results are visible. This only re-affirms our association with Marquees which has today honoured path-breaking marketing campaigns that have inspired change."

Also Read:

Ad Club announces nomination list for 'Marquees 2017' 

Minister Smriti Irani to be Marquees 2017 chief guest

Marquees 2017: Ad club appoints HUL's Sanjiv Mehta as jury chair