Artificial Intelligence Revolutionises Early Pregnancy Detection with Wearables
Artificial Intelligence Revolutionises Early Pregnancy Detection with Wearables
Artificial Intelligence has made significant advancements, now enabling the detection of early signs of pregnancy with an impressive accuracy of up to 92%. This achievement utilises behavioural data collected from iPhones and Apple Watches, demonstrating a remarkable leap in the use of everyday health data as predictive tools.
Breakthrough Study and Methodology
The study, named Beyond Sensor Data: Foundation Models of Behavioural Data from Wearables Improve Health Predictions, moves past conventional health tracking methodologies that typically focus on basic sensor inputs like heart rate or oxygen levels. Instead, it investigates long-term behavioural trends, including sleep quality, mobility, heart rate variability, and activity levels, leveraging Apple’s sophisticated algorithms.
Training the Wearable Behaviour Model
The Wearable Behaviour Model (WBM) was developed using over 2.5 billion hours of data collected from participants in the Apple Heart and Movement Study (AHMS), which involved more than 160,000 volunteers. To enhance accuracy, researchers assembled a specific pregnancy dataset derived from data across 430 pregnancies and also sourced information from over 24,000 women under 50 who were not pregnant.
Long-Term Behaviour Tracking
Unlike traditional methods that focus on immediate biometric spikes, the WBM identifies subtle, cumulative behavioural changes over time. Employing an advanced AI architecture known as Mamba-2, which excels in time-series data analysis such as daily routines, the model detects weekly physiological changes that can signal pregnancy, infections, or recovery from injuries.
Indicators of Pregnancy
Concerning pregnancy detection, the AI model recognised key behavioural indicators, including changes in gait, decreases in mobility, and disrupted sleep patterns, as early and trustworthy signs. When combined with biometric data, such as photoplethysmography (PPG), the WBM achieved a remarkable 92% accuracy in detecting pregnancy.
The Future of Reproductive Health with Apple Devices
The results indicate that the Apple Watch and iPhone could evolve into crucial tools in reproductive health, potentially offering non-invasive and early-stage pregnancy detection as an integrated feature. Nevertheless, researchers emphasised that this technology is not meant to completely replace raw sensor data. Instead, they champion a hybrid approach, where behavioural insights provide context while traditional sensors record real-time events.
Beyond Pregnancy Detection
In addition to pregnancy detection, the AI model exhibited promising results across 57 different health prediction tasks. This included early identification of respiratory infections and providing insights into medication adherence, such as the use of beta blockers.
The Transformative Potential of Wearable Data
As Apple continues to delve into the extensive capabilities of wearable data, this study underscores how behavioural AI may transform the Apple Watch into a more proactive and intelligent health companion.
SpaceX Invests in xAI to Advance Artificial Intelligence Development
SpaceX Invests in xAI to Advance Artificial Intelligence Development
SpaceX is making a substantial investment of $2 billion in xAI, Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence startup. This investment is part of a larger $5 billion equity round, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. This marks SpaceX’s inaugural investment in xAI and significantly strengthens the financial and operational relationship between Musk’s various business ventures.
The financing package also includes an additional $5 billion in debt support, with Morgan Stanley offering advice on this fundraising initiative. Following xAI’s recent merger with Musk’s social media platform X (previously known as Twitter), its overall valuation has reached $113 billion.
Integration of AI Technologies Across Musk’s Companies
xAI’s Grok chatbot has already been incorporated into SpaceX’s Starlink customer service framework, with future applications anticipated, including potential uses within Tesla’s humanoid Optimus robots. Additionally, Tesla is exploring the possibility of investing in xAI; however, Musk has indicated that such a decision would need “board and shareholder approval.”
Strategic Collaboration and Resource Sharing
The partnerships among Musk’s enterprises exemplify his enduring strategy of connecting resources and technology across platforms, from X to Tesla and SpaceX. Despite recent controversies surrounding Grok’s responses, including instances of antisemitic content, Musk has stood by the chatbot, referring to it as “the smartest AI in the world.” xAI continues to make significant investments in training infrastructure as it aims to compete with OpenAI and other prominent players in the artificial intelligence landscape.
Shashank Shekhar, who previously headed content strategy and operations at ShareChat, is securing $4 million for his new AI-led learning startup, as reported by two sources familiar with the matter. Peak XV Partners is spearheading this funding round, with various early-stage institutional and angel investors involved, as mentioned by an anonymous source. It has been noted that Shekhar has been developing this project discreetly over the last few months and already has initial prototypes ready.
Startup in Stealth Mode
This startup is currently functioning in stealth mode and is anticipated to launch later this year. The details are still sparse, but the business model reflects aspects similar to Seekho, a platform geared towards career-focused learning. Reports indicate that Seekho is in discussions to secure between $25-30 million in funding.
Shekhar’s Background
Shashank Shekhar held the position of Head of Content at ShareChat from December 2016 until May 2018. After that, he co-founded Circle Internet, a hyperlocal information platform that was acquired by ShareChat in August 2020. Post-acquisition, he took on the role of Head of Content Strategy and Operations at the Google-backed company until his resignation in March of this year.
Funding Round Information
The funding round is expected to conclude within the next few weeks. The startup is likely to allocate the raised capital towards expanding its AI and product teams, continuing the development process, and preparing for its initial rollout, as indicated by another source.
Startup Name and Competitors
The startup’s name has not yet been disclosed. Attempts to reach Shekhar and Peak XV for comments did not receive a response by the time of this publication. While Shekhar’s new venture will be the first direct competitor to Seekho, platforms such as YouTube Shorts and Instagram present indirect competition through their creator-driven educational content targeting the same demographic.
Google Enhances AI Capabilities with Varun Mohan from Windsurf
Google is strengthening its AI capabilities by bringing aboard Varun Mohan, an entrepreneur of Indian origin, who serves as the co-founder and CEO of the AI coding startup Windsurf. This strategic move aims to enhance coding automation through the Gemini platform.
Strategic Move Announced by Demis Hassabis
Demis Hassabis, the Co-Founder and CEO of Google DeepMind, announced this development on Saturday via X, confirming that Mohan along with several engineers from Windsurf will be joining Google.
“Thrilled to welcome @windsurf_ai founders Varun Mohan and Douglas Chen and some of the brilliant Windsurf eng team to @GoogleDeepMind,” Hassabis stated. “Excited to be working with them to turbocharge our Gemini efforts on coding agents, tool use, and much more. Great to have you on board!”
Licensing Agreement Enhances Collaboration
This collaboration is part of a $2.4 billion licensing and compensation agreement that grants Google a non-exclusive license to Windsurf’s intellectual property. It’s important to note that this is not an acquisition, and there is no equity stake involved. Windsurf will maintain its independence and the right to license its technologies to other parties.
Pioneering Approach to AI-Assisted Development
Windsurf is renowned for its inventive approach to AI-assisted software development, known as “vibe coding.” This user-friendly method has drawn considerable attention in the highly competitive AI coding sector. The company’s tools are designed to transform code generation into a collaborative experience, akin to working with a creative partner instead of simply receiving predictive completions.
Emerging Field of Agentic Coding
Douglas Chen, co-founder of Windsurf, along with other vital team members, will also transition to Google DeepMind. Their contributions are anticipated in the promising area of “agentic coding,” which seeks to develop AI models that function more like intelligent co-developers.
Implications for the AI Landscape
This development poses a challenge to OpenAI, which was reportedly engaged in exclusive acquisition discussions with Windsurf earlier this year, valuing the startup at nearly $3 billion. OpenAI has indicated that this exclusivity period has since ended.
Google’s latest recruitment intensifies the already fierce competition among major AI players striving to lead in developer tools. Microsoft, supporting OpenAI, has integrated AI technology extensively into its software, with CEO Satya Nadella indicating that nearly 30 per cent of Microsoft’s code is now AI-generated. Meanwhile, Meta has recently appointed Alexandr Wang, founder of Scale AI, to spearhead its AI strategy as part of a substantial $14.3 billion initiative.
Future Plans for Windsurf
Jeff Wang, the interim CEO of Windsurf, explained that the startup will continue to develop its enterprise product while its core team makes the transition to Google. “We’re excited about what lies ahead and proud that our team will help shape the next wave of AI-assisted development,” he articulated on X.
India’s tech-first narrative has come under scrutiny, particularly after Anupam Mittal, the founder of Shaadi.com and a judge on Shark Tank India, shared an image of an elderly woman delivering goods. He emphasized the importance of reassessing the country’s relentless push towards AI and advanced technologies without considering the realities on the ground.
Mittal noted, “Saw this woman the other day, and thought maybe she should learn Python,” and added, “Perhaps she can fine-tune an LLM too, while delivering your groceries.” This statement was not merely a jest; it served as a critical examination of India’s narrow focus on technology policy.
The Reality of Employment in India
“Every time I say India needs jobs along with deep-tech, someone sends me a whitepaper on AI skilling. Essentially repeating what is done in the West without grasping our unique circumstances,” he explained.
Mittal recognized the sweeping changes AI and automation bring to global job markets. Companies like Microsoft, Meta, and Google anticipate that 40–50% of jobs will soon be AI-driven. “Yes, true!” he stated. “But those economies feature lower population densities, higher formal employment, and substantial reskilling programmes.”
The Need for Institutional Support
Reflecting on his experiences in the U.S., Mittal highlighted the effectiveness of systematic upskilling. “When I worked in the US, every new technology or software required us to be trained rapidly—not just individuals but the entire organization. That exemplifies what a robust skilling infrastructure should look like.”
India’s Current Situation
In stark contrast, he indicated that India is not adequately prepared. “Most people are self-employed. India is not there yet.” In this context, he praised the gig economy as a vital support system, stating, “It has provided jobs for millions. In a nation that hosts roughly 20% of the world’s population, that’s a significant achievement!”
Challenges of a Deep-Tech Focus
Mittal cautioned against viewing deep-tech as a panacea for all issues, warning, “When we start to promote deep-tech as the sole remedy, we risk jeopardising the livelihoods of over a billion people.”
He recognized India’s dual reality, asserting, “Yes, we have highly skilled and exceptionally talented individuals poised to create the next generation of big tech from India—but we also have a substantial population lacking essential skills that must be considered.”
A Call for Balanced Development
“India needs to tackle both these challenges at the same time, doesn’t it?” he concluded. “What are your thoughts?”
Full Stack Lead Role at Smallest AI – ₹1 Crore Package
Full Stack Lead Role at Smallest AI – ₹1 Crore Package
A full-stack lead position at the Bengaluru-based startup Smallest AI is attracting attention with its unique hiring strategy and a lucrative pay package of ₹1 crore per year. This compensation package comprises a ₹60 lakh base salary alongside ₹40 lakh in employee stock options (ESOPs).
About Smallest AI
The startup is co-founded by tech innovator Sudarshan Kamath, who currently resides in Palo Alto. Smallest AI is seeking individuals who can start immediately and work from its Indiranagar office in Bengaluru. This is a full-time, on-site role that operates on a five-day workweek, with some flexibility in working hours offered by the company.
Role Requirements
Candidates should have a minimum of 4 to 5 years of experience and must be proficient in Next.js, Python, and React.js. Those with direct experience in scaling systems from inception to significant capacity will be given preference.
Non-Traditional Hiring Approach
In a departure from conventional hiring practices, Smallest AI specifies that a college degree or a formal resume is not required. The firm emphasises the need for a hands-on developer, rather than someone focused on managerial responsibilities.
Application Process
Interested candidates must submit a brief 100-word introduction about themselves, along with links to their best work, to info@smallest.ai. The subject line should read “Cracked Full Stack Lead.”
Community Reactions
This job posting has elicited diverse reactions on X. User @satvikkhare31 commented, “3.4 lacs per month is good money for a bachelor, but for someone who is married, it is fine, nothing extraordinary.”
Another user, @thehungrybird_, added humorously, “You said cracked! I’m in!”
@BhushanRautFSE expressed a practical concern: “It’s a great opportunity, but I think at least hybrid should be there.”
Indian Startups Funding Overview: $95 Million Raised This Week
Indian Startups Funding Overview: $95 Million Raised This Week
This week, Indian startups attracted about $95 million in funding, comprising 5 growth-stage and 10 early-stage deals, while 2 companies opted not to disclose their funding amounts.
Growth-Stage Deals
In terms of growth and late-stage funding, the total reached $72.9 million. Smartworks, a proptech company preparing for an IPO, led the way with a pre-IPO round of $20 million. Education-focused NBFC Varthana followed suit, raising Rs 159 crore (approximately $18.5 million) in debt. The clean-label food brand Kehtika also secured $18 million in a Series B round, spearheaded by Narotam Sekhsaria Family Office and Anicut Capital. Additionally, fintech company Credit Wise Capital and Avis Hospital also attracted funding.
Early-Stage Deals
Ten early-stage startups collectively garnered around $22.11 million, with tech-enabled NBFC InPrime Finserv leading the charge by raising approximately $6 million in its Series A round, supported by Pravega Ventures. Other notable mentions include fintech startup Belong, microdrama OTT platform Chai Bisket, home service marketplace Clean Fanatics, and deeptech startup Green Aero. Conversely, cybersecurity startup LdotR and SaaS startup Monetize360 have raised funds without disclosing the exact amounts.
For a complete funding breakdown, various sources can provide more detail.
City and Segment-Wise Deals
Bengaluru-based startups dominated the funding landscape with 6 deals, followed by Delhi-NCR with 4 deals. Companies in Mumbai, Hyderabad, and other locations also secured funding.
Segment-wise, fintech startups reigned supreme with 4 deals. Deeptech and SaaS startups each recorded 2 deals, while sectors like proptech, foodtech, and OTT also saw activity this week.
Series-Wise Deals
Seed funding was the most prominent with 7 deals, while Series A and pre-Series A each secured 2 deals. Additionally, there were deals in pre-IPO, debt, and Series B funding rounds.
Week-on-Week Funding Trend
This week experienced a 67% decline in startup funding, amounting to $95 million, compared to approximately $290.28 million raised the previous week. The average funding over the last eight weeks stands at around $205.24 million, with 21 deals each week.
Key Hirings and Departures
This week featured significant appointments within various companies. CoinDCX, a cryptocurrency exchange, announced Amol Wanjari as the Head of Engineering and Sangeeth Aloysius as the Head of Product. Foodtech major Eternal, formerly known as Zomato, welcomed Aditya Mangla as the CEO of its core food delivery operations. Autodesk appointed Kamolika Gupta Peres as Vice President for its business in India and SAARC.
For more details, various sources can be consulted.
Mergers and Acquisitions
Workspace solution provider Incuspaze acquired VSKOUT, a B2B SaaS offering curated data analytics for the commercial real estate sector, as part of a strategic move to integrate advanced technologies. Additionally, Infinity Fincorp Solution, a non-bank lender in India, entered into a share purchase and subscription agreement with Partners Group, whereby Partners Group will acquire a significant majority stake in the company.
To view a breakdown of series-wise deals along with amounts, various sources can provide insights.
Fund Launches
IndiGo Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of IndiGo, announced the first close of its inaugural fund at Rs 450 crore. Furthermore, IIT Madras is launching a Rs 200 crore VC fund aimed at supporting early-stage startups, specifically in the deeptech sector.
New Launches and Partnerships
Awfis is branching into the furniture business to explore new revenue streams and reduce costs. Flipkart Ventures has introduced Leap Ahead 4.0 to support early-stage startups. ClearTax launched a multilingual AI solution for filing income tax returns. PhysicsWallah partnered with YCMOU to offer UGC-compliant online degree programmes. Meanwhile, Flipkart collaborated with Pebble to unveil India’s first smart ring featuring digital displays and gesture controls. Dhruva Space formed a partnership with Pixxel, and Shaadi.com ventured into spiritual technology with the new launch of AstroChat.
Financial Results This Week
Redcliffe Labs reported revenue of Rs 419 crore for FY25, while narrowing EBITDA losses. Smartworks reported Rs 1,374 crore in revenue with Rs 62 crore in losses for FY25.
News Flash This Week
Pocket FM is seeking Rs 85.7 crore in damages from KuKu FM, with the rival asserting that the charges are motivated. PhonePe and Google Pay held a combined 82% market share in UPI transactions during June, while BHIM made a return to the top 10 after a prolonged absence. The Enforcement Directorate conducted raids on the opinion trading platform Probo, seizing assets worth Rs 284 crore. Groww maintained its lead over Zerodha and Angel One despite a decline in user numbers in June. A US court held Byju Raveendran in contempt for bypassing bankruptcy orders. LetsVenture has rebranded as LVX and expanded its focus to include growth-stage investment.
On a weekly basis, startup funding fell by 67% to $95 million, compared to around $290.28 million raised the previous week. The legal dispute between Pocket FM and Kuku FM progressed to the Delhi High Court, with Pocket FM suing Mebigo Labs for allegedly plagiarising five audio series and seeking Rs 85.7 crore in damages and a ban on their content and artwork.
India’s UPI network recorded 18.4 billion transactions worth Rs 24.04 lakh crore in June, experiencing a slight decrease compared to the previous month, according to NPCI data. Despite the dip, PhonePe and Google Pay maintained their leadership in the sector, together handling over 82% of UPI transactions by volume. The active user base in the Indian stock market decreased from 49.67 million in January to 47.89 million in June, although it had a 2% month-on-month rise in May. Groww retained its leading position with a 26.27% market share, despite a 1.67% reduction in users, bringing the total to 12.58 million in June, as per NSE data. The Enforcement Directorate also executed raids on opinion-trading platform Probo, seizing assets worth Rs 284.5 crore, with the company under investigation for alleged transgressions of gambling laws under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.
Future of Entertainment: Nikhil Kamath’s Vision on Live Events
Future of Entertainment: Nikhil Kamath’s Vision on Live Events
Future of entertainment, according to Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath, may not rest on refined productions or costly films—but rather on something more authentic and engaging: live events. In a recent statement on X, Kamath expressed that quality is subjective and intelligence lies in recognizing what works. He stated that he prefers a good local biryani spot over a Michelin-star restaurant, emphasizing that creating live event experiences might be the unconventional path to take in a post-AI landscape.
Kamath shared a series of visuals illustrating India’s evolving entertainment trends since 2018.
Shifts in Cinema Attendance
The data indicates that cinema attendance, which peaked at 945 million in 2018, has yet to regain those heights—projected to reach 883 million in 2024 despite the reemergence of blockbuster films.
Growth of Live Events
In contrast, the live event sector has rapidly expanded, increasing from 8,000 concerts in 2018 to over 16,700 by 2025. Notably, smaller shows hosting under 2,000 attendees are experiencing the most rapid growth.
Cultural Shifts in Consumer Behaviour
This trend illustrates a significant cultural transformation. As indicated by Kamath’s visuals, Indian audiences are increasingly gravitating towards experiential formats, favouring concerts over traditional movie-going. This transition challenges established industry beliefs that only grand productions could attract viewers in the era of OTT platforms.
Insights into Bollywood Productions
Further analysis reveals that many of 2024’s highest-earning Bollywood films were not extravagant productions but rather films with budgets under ₹100 crore, rooted in classic “masala” storytelling. These films deliver on drama, emotion, and escapism, meeting a fundamental audience desire. For many Indians, cinema serves as a means of emotional expression rather than an avenue for intellectual discourse.
In his commentary, Kamath noted that South Indian cinema has preserved its cultural essence while broadening its narrative techniques—from the realistic storytelling of Malayalam films to the larger-than-life narratives seen in RRR and Kantara. These works celebrate emotion and folklore unabashedly, resonating well both domestically and internationally.
Global Parallels in Entertainment
Kamath draws comparisons globally, noting that anime has become a universal sensation by focusing on emotional narratives and vibrant aesthetics, rather than diminishing them. He observes how Western series like Stranger Things have adopted this formula. The message for Indian creators is clear—embrace and build upon the uniqueness instead of diluting it.
In today’s world, where AI is shaping digital interactions, Kamath envisions live, collective, and culturally rich experiences as the next frontier for entertainment. These experiences should be grounded in the strengths of Indian culture rather than disconnected from it.
OmniBook 3: Affordable AI-Powered Laptop for Everyday Use
OmniBook 3: Affordable AI-Powered Laptop for Everyday Use
OmniBook 3 is quickly establishing itself as a budget-friendly AI-powered laptop option. HP is introducing this device, a 15.6-inch model, priced at a reasonable ₹69,999, boasting “next-gen AI performance.” Recent usage of the OmniBook 3 reveals its strong features and modern AI capabilities, signifying that it targets a specific type of user.
Design and Build: Simple, Silver, and Sustainable
The OmniBook 3 showcases a clean and professional appearance right from the start. Its Glacier Silver finish is understated yet stylish enough to appeal to both students and professionals. While it might feel a bit weighty at 1.7kg, the overall balance makes it manageable to carry.
HP’s focus on sustainability is commendable; the chassis incorporates ocean-bound plastics and the keyboard components utilise recycled materials. Though it may not alter the tactile feel, it is encouraging to see a brand prioritising such choices at this price point.
The 15.6-inch display performs adequately. It features a Full HD anti-glare panel, and although the 250 nits brightness and 62.5% sRGB coverage might not attract content creators, it is sufficient for web surfing, video streaming, and document editing. The bezels could be thinner, but this is not a significant drawback.
Keyboard and Trackpad: Functional Yet Lacking Finesse
The experience with the keyboard was somewhat mixed. The full-size layout includes a numpad, a feature many will appreciate, but the typing sensation was occasionally frustrating. Key spacing felt off, resulting in more typos than expected, and the overall typing precision fell short of what is typically anticipated in this price bracket. For those who type frequently, this could be an annoyance.
As for the trackpad, noticeable compromises were evident. Its feedback lacked the expected clickiness and felt somewhat mushy. While it serves well for basic navigation and productivity, those engaged in prolonged typing spells may resort to using an external keyboard and mouse.
A positive design element is the dedicated mic mute switch on the keyboard and the privacy shutter on the webcam. While these features are becoming standard, they significantly enhance the user experience.
Performance: AI-Enhanced, Entry-Level Fast
The OmniBook 3 is powered by AMD’s new Ryzen AI 5 340 processor, featuring 6 cores and 12 threads with an NPU capable of 50 TOPS. Combined with 16GB of DDR5 RAM and a 512GB PCIe Gen4 SSD, the performance is more than enough for tasks such as web browsing, video calls, Microsoft Office, and light creative work.
The standout aspect is the AI features. Whether it’s background blurring in video calls, voice summarisation, or enhanced productivity via the HP AI Companion app, it offers a clear sense that this isn’t merely an entry-level laptop.
However, it is not suited for gaming or intensive editing, as the integrated Radeon 840M graphics handle HD video and light graphics tasks well but nothing beyond that.
Thermal Performance: Generally Well-Managed
The thermal management of the OmniBook 3 is generally efficient. During ordinary tasks, such as editing documents or streaming, the device remains relatively cool and quiet. However, when pushed with numerous heavy tabs and background AI applications running, it does get warm, particularly around the palm rest and underside.
While the warmth is noticeable, it never escalates to a concerning level. Users working on their lap or during extended sessions will feel some heat. The fans do engage occasionally but remain mostly quiet and non-intrusive. Additionally, there is no significant performance throttling, which is a reassuring aspect.
Connectivity and Battery: Meets User Expectations
HP hasn’t skimped on connectivity options. Users will find a USB-C port (with Power Delivery and DisplayPort), two USB-A ports, HDMI 1.4b, and a headphone/mic combination. This well-rounded selection caters well to both students and home office users.
Featuring Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensures modern connectivity, and the 41Wh battery provides just over 7 hours of usage on a regular workday. Fast charging is effective, reaching about 50% in 45 minutes—an advantage on multiple occasions.
Verdict: For the Practical, Not the Picky
The HP OmniBook 3 is not designed for power users, and that is acceptable. It caters to individuals seeking a contemporary, dependable laptop equipped with AI features and satisfactory everyday performance. For those upgrading from older devices or purchasing their first Windows laptop, this represents an attractive choice.
Nonetheless, compromises exist: the typing and trackpad experience could certainly improve, and the display doesn’t stand out. However, if AI tools, sustainability, and a reputable brand under ₹70,000 are priorities, the OmniBook 3 presents genuine value.
Understanding the Shift in Indian Cinema and Live Events
In a rapidly changing world driven by AI and analytics, entrepreneur Nikhil Kamath paused to advocate for what is fundamentally human — the essence of taste, experience, and genuine emotion.
Kamath expressed, on X (formerly Twitter), that he would choose a great local biryani joint over a Michelin-star restaurant almost every time. This sentiment was not merely a casual opinion on food; it served as a metaphor and an introduction to a broader, data-backed stance regarding what genuinely connects with the Indian populace — especially in a media environment increasingly influenced by technology and international patterns.
In partnership with FinFloww, Kamath shared a visually driven research thread titled “How the so-called ‘brainrot’ movies are saving Bollywood.” It commenced with a striking contrast: cinema attendance in India plummeted to 200 million during the pandemic, and even in 2024, it had still not recovered to the 945 million peak of 2018. However, the concert economy in India has been thriving.
Kamath noted that quality is subjective, and wisdom lies in understanding what might succeed. He reiterated his preference for a local biryani over a high-end restaurant. Additionally, he suggested that creating something in the realm of live events might be a contrarian opportunity worth pursuing.
So, what’s driving this change? According to Kamath’s findings, people are increasingly drawn towards experiences and participatory activities rather than passive consumption. A simple theatre outing is no longer adequate unless it provides something visceral, engaging, or emotionally fulfilling.
What Captivates the Audience?
What captures the hearts (and wallets) of moviegoers? It’s not the sleek, internationally-inspired dramas but the masala films that unapologetically feature dance, drama, and familiar themes. The top-grossing Hindi films of the year, such as Stree 2, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, and Munjya, are middle-budget projects that embrace emotion and uniqueness. Kamath highlighted that eight out of the ten highest-grossing films of 2024 were rooted in that “unapologetic masala,” suggesting Indian viewers still seek the “paisa vasool” experience, merging escapism with cultural resonance.
Global Influence and Bollywood’s Identity Crisis
In an unexpected turn, Kamath’s thread drew parallels between the paths of Indian cinema and Japanese anime. He remarked that two decades ago, many outside Japan deemed anime juvenile. Today, its distinctive storytelling and heightened emotion have achieved global acclaim, influencing Western hits like Stranger Things significantly.
His perspective suggests that Bollywood lost its essence while trying to imitate Western minimalism, neglecting its innate strengths in exaggeration and melodrama. Kamath proposed that instead of toning down, it is essential to amplify these aspects — not only for filmmakers but also for entrepreneurs in the live entertainment and media sectors. He urged a focus on marketing Bollywood’s masala, melodrama, and eccentricity as valuable products in the global market.
The Role of Live Events in a Changing Landscape
For Kamath, the entertainment industry, particularly live events, represents a crucial counterbalance to the anonymising trends ushered in by AI. He conveyed that establishing something in the live event space may be a wise contrarian decision in a world increasingly dominated by algorithms. Where screens seem to rule and attention spans wane, the shared experiences of collective emotions, laughter, and dramatic storytelling could serve as the most human — and lucrative — countermeasure.
His critique extends beyond cinema; it reflects a broader understanding of consumption in India: quality is not solely about refinement. A hearty biryani can overshadow imported truffle oil if it connects on a deeper level. Similarly, a vibrant, chaotic masala film may resonate more with an Indian family than a subtle European art-house piece.
Kamath’s insights prompted considerable agreement online. One user remarked that audiences are not rejecting cinema but mediocre filmmaking instead. Another added that live events offer experiences that screens cannot replicate — raw, collective energy. Many individuals echoed Kamath’s longing for immersive, community-oriented, and unapologetically local experiences.
