StartUps

Architect of Digital world

Discover the synergy of science and strategy in Surabhi Goel’s interview with Balaji Mancha, showcasing measurable ROI in client success.

Commencing his professional journey at the age of 24, Balaji Mancha swiftly became a standout figure in the dynamic realm of digital marketing. Hailing from Duvvur in the Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh, Balaji earned his educational credentials from Siddhartha Engineering College in Tirupati, and BTech specializing in Electrical and Electronic Engineering. His early interest in digital events and mock sessions set the stage for his future endeavors. Recognized by the Telangana government for outstanding contributions in a mock Parliament session during his studies, Balaji’s passion for digital marketing intensified. His dedication and innovative strategies earned him the title of Digital Marketing Strategist of the Year.

In 2017, armed with a diploma, Balaji entered the digital marketing arena. With the unwavering support of his mother, Mrs. Laxmi Devi, and under the guidance of the founder of Infinity Reach, a prominent digital marketing company in Hyderabad, Balaji swiftly rose through the ranks. Starting as a fresher, he gained practical knowledge in a company for 3-6 months before joining Infinity Reach as an Ads expert. His talent soon led to promotions, culminating in his current role as the Business Head, overseeing a team of 25-26 professionals and serving a diverse clientele of 50-100, including prestigious names like Mercedes, MG Hector, and Talent Spring. Balaji’s proficiency extends to personally managing 10-12 clients, including doctors, clinics, and renowned salons like Tony and Guy. He actively guides and strategizes with his team, ensuring a robust client and revenue portfolio that has sustained his successful four-year tenure with the company.

“At the heart of my strategy is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to boost the scientific side of digital marketing,” says Balaji. “AI changes how we analyze data, predict what consumers will do, and personalize their experiences.” He further explains, “I incorporate AI technologies like machine learning, natural language processing, and AI-powered chatbots into my plans, making marketing campaigns more precise and effective.”

To enhance client acquisition and engagement, Balaji states “My team leverages cutting-edge tools including advanced analytics platforms, AI-powered marketing automation, and predictive modeling software. These tools allow them to identify consumer patterns, tailoring marketing strategies that resonate with their client’s audience.

Balaji’s scientific approach yields tangible results for major clients. For example, a client’s social media strategy was revamped, resulting in a 40% increase in engagement and a 25% boost in conversions within three months. His team constantly refines strategies by analyzing data points, optimizing ad spending, and implementing iterative improvements based on scientific methodologies.

Setting Balaji apart is his scientifically tailored marketing strategy that delivers measurable results and ROI. While traditional methods have their place, the stalwart explains “My approach provides a competitive edge through precise targeting, personalized experiences, and adaptive campaigns that evolve with changing market dynamics.”

Looking ahead, Balaji envisions rapid evolution in the scientific dimensions of digital marketing. Over the next five years, he foresees AI becoming even more integral, with advancements in predictive analytics, AI-driven content generation, and hyper-personalization. Positioned to embrace these trends, his team stays agile, invests in AI-driven technologies, and nurtures a culture of continuous learning and innovation. Balaji’s goal is not just to adjust but to take charge, using new scientific trends to bring outstanding success to clients in the digital world.

Exploring startup advice or seeking enhanced ROI for your business? Contact Balaji Mancha by visiting the following links.

January 29, 2024

The Fresh Faces of India’s Clean Eating Revolution

Eat Right Clean eating is no longer a fad but a necessity in the times we live in, and several startups are making sure this is a choice that is easy to make. As people take charge of their health and well-being, eating clean is one of the most important priorities. BINDU GOPAL RAO features seven startups that are helping make this change, one plate at a time. Nutreat Hyderabad-based Nutreat was born in 2014 out of a personal need to provide clean, wholesome food for the founder’s son. Over time, this evolved into a deeper mission: to craft handmade, customised nutrition rooted in ancestral Indian food wisdom. “We handcraft each product using our signature four-step process sprouting, sun-drying, slow roasting, and stone grinding and tailor it to the individual’s age, health condition, and dietary needs. Nutreat promotes clean eating not just by avoiding processed ingredients, but by ensuring every spoonful is mindfully made and consciously consumed. In 2023, when our business was at its peak with franchise opportunities, foreign collaborations, and incubation offers we made a bold decision. We stepped back. We refused to bulk produce because it was creating false demand, pressuring both our team and consumers to buy more than they needed. That turning point reaffirmed our belief in nooverbuying and consciousconsumerism. Clean eating, we believe, must also be mindful free of waste, hype, or excess. While the wellness industry grows, we often see food wastage even in the name of healthy eating. Our model of customisation ensures that we make only what’s needed, drastically reducing waste while offering personalised nutrition,” says Jyothi Sri Pappu, Founder & CEO, Nutreat. Moving forward, their goal is to scale impact, not volume, by nurturing conscious consumers, supporting women artisans, and creating a food culture rooted in purpose. The Kenko Life

StartUps

House of Creativity: Sinha Brothers Redefine India’s Art Scene with a Legacy-Fuelled Vision

In a world where creativity often competes with commerce, LUV and KUSSH SINHA are merging both purpose and passion. Drawing from their rich cinematic heritage and a lifelong connection to the arts, the Sinha twins have launched The House of Creativity (HOC) a platform dedicated to showcasing and supporting contemporary Indian artists. Their goal is to democratize access to visual art, giving emerging talents a space to thrive while also expanding the reach of Indian artistry on a global stage. In conversation with SINDURI VUPPALA, the duo shares how their entrepreneurial journey is not just about art, but about creating a movement that celebrates originality, honours legacy, and nurtures the future of India’s creative community. 1. Can you take us back to when your relationship with visual art truly began? Luv: My relationship with visual art began at a very young age. I was deeply influenced by Hindi cinema the films my father acted in, those of Mr. Bachchan, and other legends. As I grew older, Japanese animation, video games, and comic books also left a huge impression on me. Each artist, every inker, has their own style those differences fascinated me. Film too, being a moving image, played a huge role. Pause it, and it becomes a photograph. That connection influenced me tremendously. 2. What led to the birth of the House of Creativity? Was there a defining moment or conversation? Luv: It started with conversations at home during the lockdown. I kept thinking about the number of immensely talented artists who just don’t have a platform. Art can be an exclusive world, but coming from the film industry, I felt we could help expand its reach. The idea of starting digital-first made sense due to restrictions, but our long-term vision is definitely to open physical galleries and make

StartUps

Why Piyush Goyal’s Note Strikes a Chord with Many

In a fast-paced economy where entrepreneurship is often glamorized and unicorn status is considered the ultimate goal, Union Minister Piyush Goyal’s recent cautionary note to start-ups has sparked conversation across boardrooms, social media feeds, and co-working spaces alike. At a time when headlines celebrate billion-dollar valuations and multi-million funding rounds, Goyal’s reminder to prioritize sustainability over vanity metrics comes as both a wake-up call and a much-needed dose of realism. What Did Piyush Goyal Say? While addressing a forum of young entrepreneurs and start-up founders, the Commerce and Industry Minister highlighted the growing trend of start-ups focusing more on valuation than value creation. He advised founders to stay grounded, reminding them that real impact lies in solving problems, building sustainable models, and creating employment — not just in raising capital or reaching the next funding milestone. Why It Resonates 1. The Valuation Bubble India has witnessed a boom in the start-up ecosystem over the last decade, becoming the third-largest start-up hub in the world. However, this rapid rise has also led to the emergence of overvalued unicorns, many of which struggle to generate profits or even break even. Goyal’s words hit home because several start-ups that once shone brightly have now either shut down or drastically downsized. 2. Funding Winter & Layoffs In the past year, a noticeable funding winter has taken a toll on many start-ups. With VC purse strings tightening, companies have been forced to lay off thousands of employees, scale back operations, and rethink their business models. Goyal’s comment serves as a timely reminder that blind growth can be dangerous without a stable foundation. 3. Founders Facing Burnout The hustle culture in start-up circles often glorifies 20-hour workdays and constant “grind” mentality. However, a growing number of founders are speaking out about mental health challenges, anxiety, and burnout. Goyal’s emphasis on sustainable growth also indirectly supports a healthier entrepreneurial mindset — one that doesn’t chase

StartUps

Water Warriors

The harsh summer of 2024 is a stark reminder that there is an urgent need to conserve the elixir of life: water. So, what is causing the water crisis, and how does one mitigate its impact? Climate change, high contamination of water, over-exploitation of groundwater, deforestation, reduced rainfall, and increased agricultural demand are some of the main reasons for water shortage. However, while the water situation seems stark, there is a silver lining on the cloud as many water-saving ventures seek to make a difference. Bindu Gopal Rao highlights several of these impactful initiatives. Water Warriors Bala Vikasa, Telangana Bala Vikasa is an NGO pioneering community-driven sustainable development activities in seven states, impacting about eight million people. A significant initiative they have is to provide access to safe drinking water at an affordable price of Rs 3-5 per 20 litres to rural communities suffering from high fluoride content in the available groundwater. Most small and marginal farmers rely heavily on natural freshwater resources for irrigation. However, groundwater depletion and low rainfall in urban and suburban areas have led to severe water scarcity, pushing farmers into a vicious cycle of debt due to reduced crop quality and yield. “In response to the struggles of farmers in rural Telangana, Bala Vikasa, founded by André Gingras (90) and Bala T. Singareddy (83), launched a pioneering farm pond construction program in 2015. This initiative, supported by CSR partners, aims to help farmers conserve rainwater, meet their irrigation needs, and replenish groundwater,” says Shoury Reddy Singareddy, Executive Director, Bala Vikasa. The program began in Ontimamidipally village, Warangal District, in 2015. In 2019, Bala Vikasa extended support to farmers in the suburbs of Hyderabad, following requests from the farmers of Upplingapur village, Medchal. This expansion underscores the program’s success and vital role in promoting sustainable agricultural