October 31, 2026 |
This document serves as the formal record of Urban Illumina 2026, organized by Illumina, a student-run club of Management Development Institute, Gurgaon, detailing the event description, key market research partners, featured artists, and concluding terms. It is binding and reflects the finalized details as of 30th October 2026.
Event Overview
• Event Name: Urban Illumina (Desi Maximalism)
• Organiser: Illumina - The Disguised Market Research Club of MDI Gurgaon
• Theme: Desi Maximalism
• Date and Venue: 31st October 2026, MDI Gurgaon (Sector 17, Gurugram)
Overview
Urban Illumina, MDI Gurgaon's premier market research festival, attracts 3000+ students each year. This much-anticipated event features vibrant activities like marketing competitions, star night, market research games, and lively gatherings, blending festivity with scholarly exploration. The theme for this year remains Desi Maximalism, with the Title as "Ours All Along" and the tagline "More than Aesthetic!" It is an ode to Desi Max and a well-known and creative theme with the sole agenda of engaging a larger audience who can be part of this exciting exploration. The event is conducted under the guidance of Dean-Graduate Programmes Prof. Jyotsna Bhatnagar and Student Affairs Chairperson Prof. Rohit Sindhwani.
Through its immersive market research festivals, Illumina enables corporate brands to gain authentic, cost-effective consumer insights by engaging audiences through interactive, disguised games designed to minimise response bias. With a diverse audience spanning age groups, including 50% aged 20–25, 30% aged 26–30, 5% aged 30–35, and 10% aged 35–55, Illumina helps brands uncover consumer preferences, behaviours and perceptions through engaging, real-world experiences.
Corporate Partners
Illumina is proud to partner with leading corporations that bring expertise and credibility to the event. Our key partners for our projects include:
• SBI – Title Sponsor: Supporting innovation and driving financial empowerment through trusted banking solutions.
• Googlebook – Technology Partner: Empowering knowledge and innovation through accessible digital technology.
• Union Bank of India (UBI) – Pro Night Partner: Enabling memorable experiences through trusted and seamless banking services.
• Spinny – Associate Sponsor: Simplifying car ownership with reliable and hassle-free mobility solutions.
• PNB – Banking Partner: Driving reliable and accessible banking solutions for all.
• CBI – Banking Partner: Empowering seamless financial services and secure transactions.
• ICICI – Banking Partner: Enabling seamless financial solutions and empowering customers with trusted banking services.
• GROG – Event and Artist Partner: Bringing events to life through unforgettable entertainment and artistic experiences.
• Guzaarish – Gifting Partner: Making every occasion special with thoughtful gifts and memorable surprises.
• AstroTalk – Astrology Partner: Connecting people with cosmic insights to guide their journey through life.
• Flipkart Samarth – Artisan Empowerment Partner: Empowering local artisans by connecting their craftsmanship with wider audiences.
• Cornitos Crusties – Snacking Partner: Adding a delicious crunch to every celebration with irresistible snacking options.
• Brohmos – Mixer Partner: Mixing great flavours and good vibes to elevate every celebration.
• Creya Learning – Learning Partner: Inspiring creativity and future-ready skills through innovative learning experiences.
• Portronics – Official Gadgets Partner: Powering everyday experiences with innovative gadgets and smart technology.
• Ching’s – Chinese Partner: Bringing bold Indo-Chinese flavours and exciting culinary experiences to the festivities.
• Atlas Ship – Logistics Partner: Delivering seamless logistics solutions to keep everything moving smoothly.
• Simba – Vibe Partner: Keeping the energy high and the good times rolling with refreshing experiences.
• Puma – Lifestyle Partner: Redefining everyday style with sport-inspired fashion, performance, and self-expression.
• Swastik – Industrial Partner: Driving industrial growth through innovative solutions and operational excellence.
• Chumbak – Home Décor Partner: Adding colour and character to everyday spaces with creative designs and vibrant home décor.
• Rakazo by Monet – Nightlife Partner: Elevating nightlife with electrifying experiences, vibrant energy, and unforgettable moments.
• Vivo – Market Research Partner: Exploring consumer preferences and market trends to drive customer-centric innovation.
• Dabur – Market Research Partner: Uncovering consumer insights to understand evolving needs and preferences.
• SecureNow – Market Research Partner: Delivering insights into evolving market needs to support smarter, data-driven business decisions.
• Tata Consumer Products (TCPL) – Market Research Partner: Transforming consumer insights into meaningful market understanding and smarter business decisions.
• Tribe Vibe – Festival Partner: Bringing people together through vibrant festivals, unforgettable experiences, and the power of music.
Event Artists
Urban Illumina features both a main artist and a supporting artist, each selected to enhance the event’s cultural experience and provide quality entertainment for attendees.
Main Artist: Javed Ali
Performance Date: 31st October
Description: Javed Ali is an acclaimed Indian playback singer known for his soulful voice and memorable songs like “Jashn-E-Bahaaraa” from Jodhaa Akbar, “Kun Faya Kun” from Rockstar, and “Tum Tak” from Raanjhanaa. Born on July 5, 1982, in Delhi, he grew up in a musical family, learning from his father, renowned qawwali singer Ustad Hamid Hussain, and receiving mentorship from legendary ghazal singer Ghulam Ali.
Javed Ali began his playback singing career in 2000 with “Chori Chori Aankh” from Beti No. 1. He rose to prominence with “Ek Din Teri Raahon Mein” from Naqaab in 2007, followed by the immensely popular “Jashn-E-Bahaaraa” in 2008, which earned him the IIFA Award for Best Male Playback Singer.
Over the years, Javed Ali has captivated audiences with his versatility across romantic melodies, Sufi compositions, and energetic tracks. His contributions to songs like “Arziyan,” “Ishaqzaade,” and “Srivalli” have further established him as one of India's most distinctive playback singers, celebrated for his ability to bring emotion and depth to every performance.