e4m-iDAC 2025: Experts to explore how India’s heartland is reshaping the digital playbook

The much-awaited third edition of the e4m Independent Digital Agency Connect (iDAC) conference is all set to take place on October 15. The conference will bring together some of the brightest minds in India’s marketing and advertising ecosystem to discuss on key topics. Known for its focus on innovation and independent digital thinking, this year’s iDAC promises thought-provoking discussions and insights for agencies, brands, and creators navigating the digital landscape.

One of the most anticipated sessions this year is the panel discussion titled “Beyond Translation: Marketing to the Heartlands.” As India’s internet user base deepens into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, the rules of digital engagement are shifting. The panellists will dive deep into how agencies, brands, and platforms are adapting to India’s rapidly changing digital audience.

Moreover, the rise of vernacular SEO and region-specific performance marketing has opened new possibilities for connecting with consumers across languages and geographies, signalling that regional storytelling is now central to every successful marketing strategy.

The panellists are Raj Gilra, VP/Business Head - Core Salt, Tata Consumer Products Limited; Shetanshu Dikshit, Lead Digital Communications, Pernord Ricard; Kaustubh Jha, Head - Sports & Entertainment Marketing And Global Cricket Lead, The Coca-Cola Company; Sujala Martis, Director - Consumer Marketing, Platinum Guild International; Harmeet Singh, Chief Brand Officer, The Body Shop Asia South; Meha Parekh, Brand Head, Samsonite and Suruchi Kore, Head of Digital and Social Strategies, Group Communication, Bajaj Group.

Gozoop's Ahmed Aftab Naqvi will be the Session Chair.

This expert panel will also explore how brands can tap into local influencer ecosystems by leveraging the power of trust, authenticity, and cultural relatability to reach audiences in meaningful ways. With India’s voice-tech adoption growing, building voice-first experiences in Indian languages is becoming a vital aspect of user engagement.

As India’s digital growth continues to expand beyond metros, the iDAC 2025 will highlight the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead in the digital era. The discussions will shed light on how personalisation and technology can work together to create human-centered marketing experiences that resonate deeply across regions.