From the house of Ajanta footwear: Impakto's event auctions AI smart shoes to aid HIV-positive kids, donates footwear during festivities

As Kolkata buzzed with the electric anticipation of Durga Puja, the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre in Newtown became the stage for a remarkable blend of innovation and compassion at Impakto’s “Innovation with a Heart” event. Organized by Impakto, the forward-thinking brand under Ajanta Shoes, this pre-Puja CSR initiative stole the spotlight by auctioning a pair of its cutting-edge smart shoes for a staggering Rs 1,00,000, with every rupee donated to a local NGO dedicated to the welfare and education of HIV-positive children. The evening wasn’t just about unveiling India’s first AI-enabled smart shoe, the Navigator—it was about gifting new shoes to these young heroes, igniting smiles and hope in a city gearing up for its grandest festival. This fusion of technology, philanthropy, and festive spirit set a new benchmark for meaningful corporate impact.

The event, bathed in the warm glow of festivity, drew a diverse crowd—corporate leaders, local influencers, and community advocates—who gathered to witness Impakto’s vision of merging tradition with tech-driven purpose. The highlight was the auction, where spirited bidding for the exclusive Navigator smart shoes electrified the room, culminating in the Rs 1,00,000 win that will directly fund educational programs and care for HIV-positive children. Beyond the auction, Impakto’s gesture of donating new shoes to these kids turned the evening into a celebration of inclusion, with the children’s radiant joy stealing the show. As they slipped into their new kicks, the room erupted in applause, a poignant nod to the power of small acts in a season synonymous with triumph and togetherness.

The star of the night, the Impakto Navigator, isn’t just another sneaker—it’s a game-changer designed with young users in mind, especially for the chaotic joy of festive outings. India’s first AI-enabled smart shoe, the Navigator boasts features like SOS alerts for emergencies, fall detection for safety, and gesture-based controls for music and calls, all powered by gyroscopic sensors. It syncs with Android apps for real-time navigation via Google Maps and even gamifies fitness with a “Step Quest” challenge, making it a perfect companion for kids and teens navigating crowded Puja pandals or bustling markets. Crafted with 90% Indian-sourced materials, its sleek design and affordability underscore Impakto’s commitment to accessible innovation with a desi heart.

Sagnik Banik, Managing Director of Ajanta Shoes and the driving force behind Impakto, set the tone with an inspiring address: “Durga Puja celebrates victory and unity, and through the Navigator, we’re empowering kids to step confidently into their futures while uplifting those in need.” The Rs 1,00,000 donation, he noted, will fuel the NGO’s mission to provide schooling and emotional support, helping break the stigma around HIV. The event’s collaboration with the local NGO wasn’t just a partnership but a promise—a vow to weave social good into the fabric of Kolkata’s biggest festival, ensuring these children aren’t left behind in the city’s celebratory whirlwind.

Vipul Kansal, CEO of Ajanta Shoes, added a personal touch, reflecting on the emotional high of seeing the children’s faces light up. “The Navigator is about safety and style, but today, it’s about giving these kids a reason to smile,” he said, gesturing to a group trying on their new shoes amid giggles and high-fives. The event’s festive vibe—complete with dhak rhythms and plates of mishti—amplified its impact, creating a space where corporate responsibility met community warmth. Guests left not just with admiration for Impakto’s tech but with a renewed sense of what Puja’s spirit can inspire: a collective step toward a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.

The Biswa Bangla Convention Centre glowed with the promise of change. Impakto’s initiative didn’t just launch a product; it planted a seed for how brands can redefine impact—marrying innovation with empathy in a city that thrives on both. With Durga Puja’s pandals rising across Kolkata, the Navigator and its young beneficiaries became symbols of resilience, proving that every step, no matter how small, can leave a lasting footprint. For Impakto, this was more than a CSR event—it was a stride toward a future where technology and kindness walk in sync.