Archives November 2024

Fatherhood is a unique, selfless affection, one that’s precious beyond comparison.” says Zohaib Siddiqui of Main Dil Tum Dhadkan

Shemaroo Umang’s show ‘Main Dil Tum Dhadkan’ has struck a chord with audiences through its unique storyline, blending emotional depth with compelling relationships. Recently, Zohaib Siddiqui, who plays Keshav in the show, shared the unexpectedly strong connection he has built with young Kavish, who portrays Kanha, his son, in the show. And how on-screen father-son bond has blossomed into a genuine, heartwarming connection off-screen as well.

Zohaib Siddiqui opens up about his heartwarming experience with young Kavish, who plays Kanha on Main Dil Tu Dhadkan. “Spending so many hours together, I have built a genuine bond with Kavish,” he shares. “On set, the love that Keshav and Vrinda show Kanha in the story resonates deeply with us off-camera too. It’s a natural connection; one that’s grown beyond the roles we’re playing, and it’s truly special to feel such a bond.”

Relating his experience to his character, Keshav’s story, Zohaib adds, “Keshav’s journey discovering he has a son and wanting to give him all the love he’s missed out on feels like something I’m living out on set. Though I haven’t experienced fatherhood yet, working with Kavish gives me a glimpse of what that love feels like. It’s a unique, selfless affection, one that’s precious beyond comparison. This bond has shown me a new depth of love, a sense of responsibility, and warmth that I’ll carry with me long after the cameras stop rolling.”

Daimler India Commercial Vehicles Appoints Michael Moebius as President and Chief Procurement & Supply Chain Officer

National, November, 2024– Daimler India Commercial Vehicles (DICV), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG, today announced the appointment of Mr. Michael Moebius as the President and Chief Procurement & Supply Chain Officer, effective November 1, 2024. Michael will succeed Mr. Muthu Maruthachalam C in this role, bringing with him over 30 years of global experience across the passenger and commercial vehicle industry.

Michael was the Head of Quality Management at Daimler Truck Asia (DTA) in Japan, where he led quality initiatives for Mitsubishi Fuso, DICV, PABCO and key CKD assembly locations globally. During his tenure, he has been instrumental in enhancing product quality, reducing warranty costs and driving innovative initiatives such as ‘Proactive Sensing’, an advanced big data solution for early failure detection.

Having started his career with Daimler in 1990, Michael has held various roles across Mercedes-Benz Cars and Daimler Buses, gaining valuable international experience in Brazil, Vietnam, Iran, India, and Japan. From 2010 to 2016, he was a key player at DICV, establishing global quality standards and driving product and process excellence.

Mr. Satyakam Arya, Managing Director & CEO, Daimler India Commercial Vehicles, said, “We are delighted to welcome Michael back to DICV at such a transformative time for our company. His profound understanding of our operations, coupled with his vast international experience, makes him exceptionally well-suited to lead our Procurement & Supply Chain Management. Michael’s proven expertise in driving quality, innovation and operational excellence aligns seamlessly with our strategic vision. I am confident that under his leadership, we will build a more agile, efficient and competitive supply chain positioning DICV to meet the evolving demands of the market with greater resilience and agility.”

Mr. Michael Moebius, President and Chief Procurement & Supply Chain Officer, Daimler India Commercial Vehicles, said, “I am deeply honoured to rejoin DICV, a company that has significantly shaped my professional journey. Over the years, DICV has built a strong reputation for excellence in innovation, quality and operational efficiency, and I am looking forward to elevating procurement and supply chain strategies, leveraging advanced technologies, strengthening supplier partnerships and ensuring cost-effectiveness. I am excited to contribute to this new chapter of the Company’s journey by enhancing resilience, fostering innovation and supporting the Company’s long-term vision.”

HCG Reports Robust Growth in Q2 & H1 FY25 Results

Bengaluru, 12th November 2024 HealthCare Global Enterprises Limited (“HCG”), the leader in India in speciality healthcare services focused on oncology and fertility today announced its unaudited financial results for the quarter (“Q2”) and half year ended September 30th 2024.

Highlights for quarter ended September 30th, 2024

  • Consolidated Income from Operations (“Revenue”) was INR 5,535 mn as compared to INR 4,870 mn in the corresponding quarter of the previous year, reflecting a year-on-year growth of 14%
  • Consolidated Profit Before Depreciation and Amortization, Finance Costs, Exceptional Items and Taxes (“Adjusted EBITDA”) was INR 1,042 mn, as compared to INR 864 mn in the corresponding quarter of the previous year, a growth of 21% year-on-year
  • Consolidated Profit Before Other Income, Depreciation and Amortization, Finance Costs, Exceptional Items and Taxes (“Reported EBITDA”), was INR 1,023 mn, as compared to INR 846 mn in the corresponding quarter of the previous year, a growth of 21% year-on-year
  • EBITDA for Established centers was INR 1,131 mn, a growth of 20% year-on-year
  • EBITDA from Emerging centers was INR 30 mn, as compared to INR 6 mn in the corresponding quarter of the previous year
  • Consolidated Profit after Taxes and Minority Interest (“PAT”) of INR 180 mn, as compared to INR 136 mn in the corresponding quarter of the previous year, growing by 33% year-on-year
Period ended Mar’24
Q2-FY25
Q2-FY24(1)
Growth
(y-o-y)
Income from Operations
5,535
 
4,869
 
14%
Adjusted EBITDA(2)
1,042
 
864
 
21%
Margin (%)
18.8%
17.8%
Reported EBITDA
1,023
 
846
 
21%
Margin (%)
18.5%
17.4%
PBT
277
 
179
 
54%
PBT margin %
5.0%
3.7%
PAT (3)
180
 
136
 
59%
PAT margin %
3.2%
2.8%
Earnings per share (EPS)
1.3
 
1.0
 

Business Updates for Q2FY24
  • Overall ARPOB stood at Rs. 45,188 vs. Rs. 42,058 in Q2FY24, a growth of 7.4%
  • Overall AOR stood at 65.6% vs. 65.8% in Q2FY24
  • RoCE (Q2FY25 Annualized)
      • RoCE for Established centers stood at 15.8% vs. 15.7% in Q2FY24. RoCE pre-corporate allocations stands at 19.6%
      • RoCE for Emerging centers stood at -10.7% vs. -13.2% in Q2FY24. RoCE pre-corporate allocations stands at -7.0%
  • Several regions delivered high double-digit revenue growth on YoY basis
        • Markets like Kolkata and Ongole grew by 66% and 46% YoY respectively
        • Nagpur, Nashik & Jaipur grew by 32%, 32% and 28% YoY respectively
  • HCC Hospital Ahmedabad, Phase III operationalized in Q2FY25
  • 5 units of HCG have been Accredited by NABH for the Digital Health Accreditation Standards  namely KR, DR, Nashik, Borivali and Kolkata
  • Aligning with asset light strategy, PET Machines on Pay-per-use across other 3 centers namely Vijayawada, Chennai and HCC operationalized in Q2FY25
  • Advance replacement of Cyber-knife at KR completed and became operationalized in Q2FY25
  • Replacement of LINAC at DR completed and new machine is operationalized

Commenting on the results, Dr. B.S. Ajaikumar, Executive Chairman, HealthCare Global Enterprises Ltd.said, “I am proud to announce strong financial and operational performance for quarter ended September 2024, a true reflection of the dedication and expertise of our exceptional team, from doctors to support staff, who work tirelessly to provide high-quality care.

Having over decades of experience, we understand that cancer is a complex disease requiring a unique and focused approach to diagnosis and treatment. Our model centers on patient-centric, personalized care, ensuring that each patient receives treatment precisely tailored to their specific cancer type and stage of progression, and our outcomes are comparable to the best in the western world. With our network of hospitals spread across the country, we aim to provide this level of treatment to every patient battling cancer.

As we look to the future, HCG remains committed to pushing the boundaries of cancer treatment through the integration of advanced technologies and patient-centric innovations. With initiatives like Virtual OPD and centralized genomics, we aim to make high-quality cancer care more accessible and precise, empowering patients with cutting-edge diagnostics and treatment plans tailored to their unique needs.Our journey is made possible by the trust our stakeholders place in us, and we remain dedicated to advancing value-based cancer care across our growing network.”

Mr. Raj Gore, CEO HealthCare Global Enterprises Ltd., added, “HCG has reported its best ever quarterly revenues of Rs 554 crores with a robust growth of 14% and EBITDA margins standing strong at 18.8% compared to 17.8% in same period last year. Proforma revenue growth including Vizag acquisition stands at 20% with EBITDA margins of 19%. This growth is on the back of increased volumes across modalities leading to operational leverage playing out well. We are confident of continuing this upward trend with our emerging centers ramping up and contributing to the growth.

Emerging centers grew by 32% and with our Kolkata center being a major growth driver, growing by 66% on a year on year basis, turning profitable in the current year with 9.2% EBITDA % in Q2,and we expect the momentum to continue in coming quarters.

Our digital initiatives have significantly boosted our patient funnel, raising digital channel revenue to 14% of overall revenue in Q2, up from 4% last year. We aim to achieve 25% of revenue through digital platforms over the next 3-5 years. In addition, our strategic acquisition of MG Hospital in Vizag is progressing well and in line with our expectations. This acquisition has been instrumental in enhancing our footprint in the region, allowing us to further expand our services and strengthen our presence in one of the key markets for cancer care.

Going forward, we aim to increase our presence across the country while scaling operations at our existing centers with a view to provide best cancer care to the people of the country. Additionally, we plan to establish more Centers of Excellence in the coming years, modeled after our premier facilities in Bangalore and Ahmedabad, equipped with state-of-the-art medical infrastructure and top clinical talent. As we move forward, we remain focused on our mission to deliver exceptional care, drive innovation, and positively impact the lives of those we serve.”

India Sets Bold Vision to Become Global Jewelry Export Powerhouse with Sweeping Reforms

India’s jewelry sector is on the verge of a major expansion as the government launches extensive reforms to position India as the world’s top jewelry export hub. Jitin Prasada, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, outlined the government’s commitment to scaling up infrastructure, decreasing dependency on imported raw materials, and expanding the industry’s global reach at the 6th ICC Gems and Jewellery Summit 2024 in New Delhi.

“Prime Minister Modi’s administration is dedicated to strengthening India’s jewelry sector by enhancing local infrastructure and improving supply chains. These reforms will enable Indian manufacturers to compete on a global scale,” Prasada stated.

Plans include significant investments in facilities such as Gujarat’s Common Facility Centers, which will leverage India’s skilled labor and cultural heritage to drive export growth and create jobs. Prasada emphasized that by collaborating and sharing best practices, the industry can secure India’s place as a global leader in jewelry exports.

Further highlighting the sector’s potential, Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, emphasized the vital role of India’s gem and jewelry sector in elevating the country’s global competitiveness. “Our industry not only contributes to economic growth but also fosters well-being and sustainable employment. The future lies in integrating traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to boost productivity and innovation,” Tiwari explained. He cited initiatives like the Vishwakarma scheme and collaborative efforts across Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu as essential to equipping local artisans with modern skills and advancing industry standards.

Echoing these ambitions, Suvankar Sen, Co-Chair of the ICC National Expert Committee on Jewelry and Lifestyle and MD of Senco Jewelers, called for united action to further elevate India’s global standing. He highlighted the government’s support, expanded infrastructure, and a focus on innovation as key to overcoming industry challenges related to costs, working capital, and job creation.

Earlier in the year, Mukesh Ambani, Chairman of Reliance Group, projected that India’s jewelry exports could potentially reach $100 billion, driven by rising demand in markets such as the Middle East and North America. Speaking at the GJEPC’s 50th India Gem & Jewellery Awards (IGJA), Ambani underscored the potential of Indian-designed jewelry to compete internationally.

The government has also made budget-driven policy changes, such as removing the 2% equalization levy on diamond sales in special notified zones (SNZs) and reducing import duties on gold, silver, and platinum.

With a blend of government support, industry innovation, and international market expansion, India’s jewelry sector is poised to establish itself as a global leader in the coming years, said Saiyam Mehra, chairman, of All India Gem & Jewelry Domestic Council.

Eloelo Partners with Elvish Yadav to Kickstart India’s Largest Digital Meet-Up

India, November 11, 2024 – Eloelo, India’s leading platform for live entertainment and creator-driven content, announces a landmark partnership with digital star Elvish Yadav as its brand ambassador. Known for his candid style and strong connection with India’s youth, Elvish joins Eloelo to bring authenticity and energy to its growing community, offering a fresh era of real-time, community-centered creator-user experiences.

This partnership strengthens Eloelo’s position as the go-to destination for real-time engagement and empowers creators of all backgrounds to connect and engage with their audiences. By joining forces with Elvish, Eloelo aims to support both emerging and established creators, giving them a lively space to interact, grow, and build strong bonds with users in real time.

Elvish Yadav, a name synonymous with unfiltered authenticity, reflects Eloelo’s core values. His rise from relatable online content to becoming one of India’s most popular digital personalities aligns with Eloelo’s mission to provide an inclusive platform that champions real-time, interactive engagement. Throughout the year, Elvish will appear live on Eloelo, offering users unique opportunities to connect with him directly and creating memorable, real-time experiences for his followers.

Saurabh Pandey, Founder & CEO  of Eloelo:  “Welcoming Elvish Yadav as our brand ambassador is a game-changer for Eloelo and everyone who’s a part of our vibrant community. At Eloelo, we’ve always believed in moving beyond the conventional ways creators and users interact. We continue to build a space where every interaction is real-time, more engaging, and truly meaningful. With Elvish, we’re set to elevate user experiences to new heights, kicking off India’s first and largest live meetup on November 15th. This is just the beginning of a whole new era of real-time, immersive interactions that will redefine how creators and users come together.”

Elvish Yadav:
Joining Eloelo as a brand ambassador feels like a perfect match. It’s a platform that truly values authentic and real-time interactions, where users feel like they’re part of something special. I’m excited to create fun, interactive moments with my fans, and I can’t wait for the live meetups where I’ll get to connect with everyone in real time, which has never been done before. Looking forward to building an even stronger, more vibrant community here.”

Elvish Yadav’s involvement marks an exciting new chapter for Eloelo, setting a fresh standard for India’s live-streaming experience. His vibrant appeal, combined with Eloelo’s vision of community-led engagement, will help bridge the gap between creators and their audiences, further cementing Eloelo’s place as a leader in India’s dynamic digital landscape.

Exploring the Digital Divide: Alif’s WWW Tackles Power, Connection, and Isolation

In a time when we’re more connected than ever, yet somehow more isolated, Alif’s newest single, WWW (World Wide Web), takes listeners on an emotional journey through the digital world we all know but rarely stop to question. Words Written Mohammad Muneem Nazir. Composed by Mohammad Muneem Nazir & Hardik Vaghela, WWW doesn’t just tell a story—it brings to life the daily dance of validation, connection, satire, and vulnerability that defines our online lives.

Following his unforgettable journey in I Am Jaadugar, the character Mu re-emerges in WWW. We find Mu now as an adult, navigating the complexities of living in a world where the internet shapes identities, dreams, and even our sense of self. Through its reflective lyrics and haunting melody, WWW explores Mu’s inner world as he faces the intoxicating highs and the quiet, lonely lows of online existence—a story that feels as intimate as it is universal.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the song, Mohammad Muneem Nazir says, “WWW reflects our delicate dance with the digital world. It’s about how each of us navigates the fragile line between power and entrapment. Mu’s story is our story—the story of how the internet shapes our reality, our sense of connection, and our loneliness. Through this song, we wanted to share both the thrill and the weight of living in a world where every moment feels shared but not always understood.”

Rohit Sobti, Curator at Artiste First, adds, “Alif has truly captured the spirit of our times with WWW. Mohammad muneem has woven a story that speaks to our everyday lives—how we connect, what we hide, and what we reveal. At Artiste First, we’re honored to support work that reflects the modern human experience. WWW isn’t just a song; it’s a reminder to pause and really think about the impact of every click, every post, and every moment we share online.”

The music video for WWW, directed by Mohammad Muneem Nazir and featuring an ensemble cast including Krishna Saproo, Devesh, Elia Usman, and others, brings Mu’s journey to life with striking visuals.

WWW by Alif is available now on all major streaming platforms, inviting listeners to dive into the digital reality we all share but rarely see with fresh eyes.

Shambhavi Singh Reminisces About the Heartwarming Rituals of Chhath Pooja

Chhath Puja, celebrated predominantly in Bihar, is a vibrant festival that honors the connection between people, nature, and the divine. For actress Shambhavi Singh, known for her role as Preeti in 10:29 Ki Aakhri Dastak on Star BharatChhath Puja has always been an emotional and joyous occasion. Growing up in Patna, she recalls how the entire family, including her mom and dadi, would come together to prepare the special dishes called  pakwan, for the celebration.
Shambhavi Singh warmly recalls her cherished moments of Chhath Pooja, saying, “Being from Patna, Chhath Pooja holds a special place in my heart. It was that magical time of year when our entire family would gather my mom, my dadi, everyone in the kitchen, preparing pakwan with love and devotion for the festival. The aroma of fresh jaggery, rice kheer, and puris filling every corner of the house created an atmosphere of warmth and tradition that I deeply miss.
She adds “Chhath was also the time when my cousins and I would eagerly save crackers from Diwali to light during the festival. We’d wait with excitement, lighting the crackers under the starry sky, creating memories filled with joy and laughter .it was about the moments of togetherness, the playful chatter, and the deep connection with family. As I reflect on these beautiful times, being away from home now makes me appreciate the essence of Chhath even more. It’s a time of devotion, gratitude, and family bonding. Even though I am miles away, the spirit of Chhath, with its connection to nature, love, and tradition, remains within me, reminding me of my roots and the invaluable memories that shaped who I am today.”
Tune into Star Bharat to watch 10:29 Ki Aakhri Dastak from Monday to Saturday at 10:29pm Sharp

Aparna Constructions and Estates Expands Its Portfolio with Launch of Aparna Deccan Town, 123-Acre Township in the heart of Gopanpally, Hyderabad

Hyderabad, 11th November 2024:  Aparna Constructions and Estates Private Limited, a premier real estate developer in South India, is unveiling a new echelon of ultra-luxury living with Aparna Deccan Town located at GopanpallyHyderabad. This landmark township represents an ambitious foray into the ultra-luxury residential market, supported by a substantial investment of INR 2,851 Crore for the first phase of Aparna Deccan Town. With this exclusive offering, Aparna Constructions is redefining the skyline of Hyderabad’s high-end residential segment, blending opulence with urban sophistication.

Aparna Deccan Town, a meticulously designed 123acre township of tomorrow in the thriving Gopanpally-Gachibowli area, comprises of high-rise apartment communities and a gated community of 99 independent premium bungalows. The township is enviably positioned in the heart of Hyderabad’s IT hub and top business districts, including Tellapur, Kokapet, the Financial District, and Neopolis. This prime location ensures unparalleled convenience for discerning residents, making it an ideal setting for Hyderabad’s elite and professionals who seek a harmonious blend of luxury and accessibility in the city’s rapidly expanding western corridor. With these developments, Aparna Constructions has expanded its portfolio to 82 projects, of which 71 are residential properties and 11 are commercial and retail spaces.

Aparna Sunstone, marking the first residential project launch of Aparna Deccan Town, redefines high-rise apartment living with its nine striking G+44 towers, offering spacious 3 BHK residences from 1,478 to 2,237 square feet. Nestled within the vast township, this project provides a fully integrated ultra-luxurious lifestyle with exclusive amenities, including a grand clubhouse, diverse sports facilities, and retail spaces. Each detail of Aparna Sunstone is meticulously curated to foster a luxurious yet dynamic community lifestyle, offering residents a seamless fusion of privacy, connectivity, and modern urban elegance.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. S.S. Reddy, Managing Director, Aparna Constructions and Estates, said, “The launch of Aparna Deccan Town and Aparna Sunstone marks our milestone entry into the ultra-luxury segment, a step that aligns with our 28-year legacy of excellence and innovation in real estate. As Hyderabad transforms into a vibrant global hub, we are thrilled to contribute meaningfully to this journey by delivering world-class developments that harmonize modern amenities with tranquil, meticulously crafted environments. Capturing the spirit of a city that is both dynamic and ambitious, Aparna Deccan Town embodies our vision of offering Hyderabad’s residents luxurious, thoughtfully designed living spaces that meet the evolving demands of urban life.”

With Aparna Deccan TownAparna Constructions and Estates continues to elevate the standards of ultra-luxury living in Hyderabad, creating distinctive spaces where architectural excellence meets unrivaled lifestyle experiences. From high-rise apartments with a wealth of amenities to luxury villas with expansive living spaces, Aparna’s latest offerings are aimed at redefining modern urban living in the city.

Alumni mentorship, diverse cohort, and recruitment across new industries emerge as top success makers for the 2024 convocation at BITS Pilani

National, 11th November 2024– BITS Pilani, a renowned institution known for its commitment to innovation held its convocation at the Pilani campus, where degrees were conferred across BE, MSc, ME, and Ph.D. programs, to 1,832 students. In total this year 15,681 degrees have been awarded by the institute including all campuses, programs, and WILP programs. Highlighting their focus on diversity in STEM, 3,893 women graduated this year. The event was graced by illustrious dignitaries like Mr. Sanjay Mehrotra, President and CEO of Micron Technology, and Dr S. Somanath, Chairman of ISRO, who awarded degrees, emphasizing BITS Pilani’s strong ties to industry and academia.

On the academic front, BITS Pilani has secured a placement rate of 81% nationally, followed by 80% at the Pilani campus. The rest pursued higher studies and entrepreneurship as careers. The top recruitments happened across IT, banking and finance, and electronics sectors. The IT sector was the most contributing with about 42% placements in roles ranging from Software development, Data Science, AI/ML, Cybersecurity, etc followed by Banking and Finance & Electronics with 18% & 16% respectively. Top recruiters included IMC Trading, Google, Microsoft, Cisco, Goldman Sachs, and Wells Fargo. Emerging industries like high-frequency trading (HFT) and Supply Chain Management also played a significant role in this year’s placements with recruiters like Tower Research Capital, IMC, Quadeye, Trexquant, Vegapay, Ola, Micron, etc.

The institute also reported a remarkable growth in PhD enrolment, with a CAGR of over 20% in the last five years, now standing at over 2050, out of which 42% are female scholars. Additionally, during FY 2023-24, the institute approved 72 research projects worth ₹81.33 Cr, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing research competitiveness. Furthermore, BITS Pilani filed 121 new patent applications in the same year, contributing to a total of 419 filed patents and 107 granted patents to date. These achievements underscore BITS Pilani’s ongoing dedication to fostering academic excellence and innovation.

During the ceremony, Professor V. Ramgopal Rao, Vice Chancellor, BITS Pilani commented “This is a special moment for BITS Pilani as we see another batch of talented individuals start their journey to shape the future. Our graduates are already making it big in various fields and I am sure they will continue the legacy of BITS Pilani by making a difference in society. We are also incredibly grateful for the exceptional support from our alumni network, who play a pivotal role in guiding and empowering our students. Their involvement, particularly in emerging fields is invaluable in bridging the gap between academia and the professional world.”

Chief Guest, Dr S. Somanath, Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), emphasized, “At ISRO, we aspire to reach the stars, and we see the same spark in the eyes of BITS Pilani graduates. India’s future as a global leader in technology depends on your ability, your dedication, and your unwavering faith in what we can do together.

Guest of Honour, Mr. Sanjay Mehrotra, President, and CEO of Micron Technology added, “I am proud and grateful to have started my undergraduate journey at BITS, which has provided a solid foundation for my transition to UC Berkeley in the US, and as an entrepreneur. Today’s graduates are tomorrow’s innovators and leaders, and as we embrace the future of technology, we must create an inclusive environment where young people can explore, create, and thrive.”

The unwavering commitment of BITS Pilani alumni to nurture the success of future generations was evident in this year’s placement season. Among the attendees were 6 alumni who have pledged $1 million each towards the $100 million BITS Pilani endowment fund that was officially launched during the Pilani campus convocation 2024, aimed at supporting various institutional development projects. This year’s alumni involvement extended beyond financial contributions, with Professor Arya Kumar, Dean of the Alumni Division, leading an initiative to connect with alumni globally, resulting in more than 150 alumni-led organizations becoming Practice School Stations for Internships. Alumni have been helping BITS in curriculum review, startup and career mentorship, guest lectures, supporting clubs and activities, and organizing cultural, sports, entrepreneurship, and technical festivals. The institute draws from a vast pool of over 200,000 alumni for tangible and non-tangible engagement.

Many alumni were honoured with prestigious awards across multiple categories. The 2024 BITS Ratna Award was conferred to Pratul Shroff, Philanthropist and Founder of eInfochips who graduated from BITS Pilani in 1976 with an electronics degree. Students across all campuses were awarded for their outstanding academic achievements with Partha Sarathi Purkayastha from the Pilani Campus being awarded the Gold Medal, while Ananya Singh received the Silver Medal.

In the category of Academia and Research, Distinguished Alumnus Awards 2024 were awarded to Prof. Sudhir Kumar, Laura H. Carnell Professor, Temple University, Mr. Shishir Joshipura, Managing Director & CEO at Praj Industries, Mr. Vinod Saraf Executive, Chairman, Vinati Organics, and Dr. Anil Gupta, Chairman and Founder, Microtek Okaya Power and Okaya EV.

Distinguish Services Awards 2024 were awarded to Dr Satya Gupta, President VLSI Society of India, Lt Gen. Arvind Walia, Engineer-in-Chief, Indian Army, and Mr. Sundi Natarajan, Co-Founder and Board of Trustees, Sparksoft Corporation and Honoris causa Doctorate of Science (D.Sc.) Degree certificate was awarded to Mr. Sanjay Mehrotra respectively.

In addition to the academic honours, the event also witnessed the much-anticipated launch of two significant books titled: Bits Pilani, A journey of innovations in higher education by Prof LK Maheshwari and Bits Pilani Trailblazers by Prof Sudhir Kumar Barai, Prof NVM Rao, Dr Ranjan Kumar Thakur and Bhaskar S Ayer. Both the books were published by Macmillan.

Bollywood actor and Brand Ambassador Anushka Sharma unveils Myntra Beauty’s new campaign this Wedding season – Let your Beauty Shine

Bengaluru, November 11, 2024: As the wedding season festivities begin, Myntra, one of India’s leading fashion and beauty destinations, has partnered with Bollywood‘s leading actor Anushka Sharma to unveil a stunning new campaign. The vibrant ad film captures the essence of Indian weddings, showcasing six captivating makeup looks curated for every wedding occasion, from the intimate haldi ceremony to the grand reception. Anushka Sharma, a style icon herself, guides viewers through each look, inspiring viewers to let their beauty shine. Whether it’s the radiant bride, the glamorous sister, or a stylish guest, Myntra Beauty offers a plethora of products to help create a flawless look.

To further enhance the shopping experience, Myntra’s innovative Virtual Try-On feature allows users to experiment with 6 different full makeup looks virtually. With its vast selection of beauty products from top brands and personalized recommendations, Myntra is the one of the ultimate destinations for every wedding need, from hair, to skincare and beauty.

The Six Signature Looks:
Blushing Red:
 A flawless base, a statement red lip, and a soft blush.
Smokey Espresso: A smoky eye with a touch of metallic and a bold lip.
Extended Liner: A dramatic winged liner, defined brows, and a soft pink lip.
Radiant Sunkissed Look:  A sun-kissed look with golden bronze eyes and nude lips.
Chrome Lids: A bold chrome lid with a smoky edge.
Monochromatic Bronze: Golden bronze eyes, defined with fluttery mascara-laden lashes and defined brows.

Myntra‘s first of its kind full makeup looks Virtual Try-On feature revolutionizes the beauty shopping experience. With this industry leading feature, customers can experiment with various products simultaneously, including foundation, eyeshadow, lipstick, and blush, and see personalized looks. This innovative tool allows users to visualize how different products will look on them when applied together, boosting confidence and making informed purchasing decisions. The Virtual Try-On feature, which originally enabled users to try one product at a time, enabled a 1.5X increase in product consideration and a remarkable 2X boost in conversion rates, underscoring technology’s effectiveness in enhancing customer engagement and satisfaction.