Archives November 2025

Crayon Software Partners with monday.com to Transform Indian Business Workflows

MUMBAI, India, Nov 24: Crayon Software Experts India (Crayon), a leading provider of cloud-first digital transformation services in India, and monday.com, the global software company that builds products people love to manage the core of their work, today announced their partnership to accelerate the adoption of monday.com’s Work OS products across Indian enterprises and mid-market organizations.

Through this partnership, Crayon will deliver integrated solutions that combine monday.com’s flexible, no-code work platform with Crayon’s expertise in consulting, cloud, software asset management, and managed services. The collaboration aims to address key business challenges in the Indian market, such as workflow fragmentation, limited visibility, and the growing demand for agile remote and hybrid work models. By uniting Crayon’s vendor-agnostic, lifecycle-driven service approach with monday.com’s unified platform, customers gain a single ecosystem to centralize work, automate processes, and enhance collaboration and insight-driven decision-making across functions, including projects, operations, sales, marketing, and IT.

As part of this alliance, Crayon will also enable its extensive partner network to seamlessly access and distribute monday.com’s products (monday Work Management, monday CRM, monday dev & monday Service), helping organizations boost productivity and business agility. Furthermore, Crayon has been authorized as a Designated Seller of Record (DSOR) to transact monday.com through AWS Marketplace, allowing partners and customers to securely procure, deploy, and manage monday.com using their existing AWS accounts in full compliance with Indian taxation and regulatory requirements.

Organizations in India are increasingly demanding platforms that not only support transformation, but also enable real-time execution and measurable business outcomes,” said Vikas Bhonsle, EVP- MEA at Crayon Software Experts India. “Our partnership with monday.com aligns with our mission of helping customers build the commercial and technical foundation for a successful and secure cloud-first journey. By embedding monday.com into our solution stack, we are able to deliver tailored workflows, industry-specific templates and managed services that make work easier, faster and more impactful for our clients.”

Together, Crayon and monday.com will further expand monday.com’s Work OS ecosystem in India, enabling Crayon1 to strengthen its portfolio of collaborative cloud solutions while deepening its role as a trusted advisor in helping businesses optimize technology investments and accelerate digital transformation outcomes.

“We are delighted to partner with Crayon Software Experts India to extend our product offering into the Indian market,” said Dean Swan, VP and GM Asia Pacific at monday.com. “Crayon’s strong local presence, lifecycle-oriented service model, and deep expertise across software and cloud make them an ideal partner. Together, we will help Indian organisations transform how work gets done, boosting transparency, agility, and growth.”

Nexus Select Malls Expects Double-Digit Growth as Black Friday Becomes a Nationwide Retail Phenomenon

By: Nishank Joshi, Chief Marketing Officer, Nexus Select Malls on the anticipated Black Friday Sales

“Over the past few years, Black Friday has firmly cemented itself as one of India’s most anticipated retail moments. What began as a single-day flash sale has now evolved into a full-fledged shopping week for many brands, signalling not just consumer enthusiasm, but the maturing of India’s retail landscape.

For us at Nexus Select Malls, Black Friday provides a timely surge in November, which tends to be softer when Diwali falls in October. This year too, we are elevating the experience with bigger giveaways, bigger assured gifts and 2X reward points for shoppers who upload their bills on our Nexus ONE app.

Traditionally, categories like electronics and beauty used to take lead, but now we’re witnessing now is a wider acceptance across segments like fast-fashion, accessories etc as well. While it’s still early to confirm the total number of participating brands this year, I am confident that the participation will surpass last year’s numbers.

Black Friday has truly become a nationwide phenomenon, and we expect strong traction across all our 19 malls in 15 cities. Like every year, we are optimistic of delivering double-digit growth in both sales and footfalls during the Black Friday weekend. The energy around this event only reinforces our belief that India’s appetite for organised retail is stronger than ever.”

Anuv Jain Announces His First-Ever World Tour — ‘Dastakhat

New Delhi, Nov 24: Chart-topping singer-songwriter Anuv Jain is set to embark on his most ambitious musical journey yet  his debut world tour, ‘Dastakhat’. Marking a milestone for Indian independent music, the tour celebrates Jain’s artistic evolution while paying tribute to the genre’s remarkable rise.

Anuv Jain

The India leg of the Dastakhat World Tour, produced and promoted by Team Innovation and TribeVibe Entertainment, will begin in January 2026, visiting New Delhi, Ahmedabad, Pune, Chandigarh, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Indore, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Bengaluru, concluding in February 2026.

Following the India leg, the tour will expand globally to 23 cities across Australia, North America, the UK & Europe, and the Middle East, marking one of the most expansive live undertakings by an Indian independent artist to date.

This tour completes a powerful trilogy of Anuv Jain’s performances in India, following his earlier tours ‘Dastakein’ (2021) and ‘Guldasta’ (2023), which helped redefine the landscape of homegrown indie music. Known for his heartfelt lyrics, evocative melodies, and intimate storytelling, Jain continues to connect deeply with fans across the globe.

Speaking about the tour, Anuv Jain said;

“Dastakhat feels like signing my name on a story that began years ago  one that’s still being written with every person who listens, sings along, or feels something through my songs. This tour isn’t just a series of performances; it’s an embrace — of where I come from, and where this music will go next.”

Mohit Bijlani, Founder of Team Innovation, added;

“Anuv Jain’s journey from intimate performances to sold-out arenas has been inspiring. The Dastakhat India Tour isn’t just a live experience  it’s a statement of how far Indian indie music has come.”

Shoven Shah, Founder & CEO of TribeVibe Entertainment, said;

“With Dastakhat, we are curating an experience that deepens the connection between Anuv and his audiences. This milestone reflects our belief in the future of Indian music and the power of independent voices.”

Tickets for the India leg will be available via BookMyShow, with an exclusive pre-sale for HSBC credit and debit cardholders from 22nd to 24th November 2025, followed by a general on-sale from 24th November 2025 at 2 PM IST. Special student ticket categories starting at INR 999/- will be available in all cities.

The Dastakhat World Tour promises a celebration of music, emotion, and cultural exchange, offering fans unforgettable performances, top-notch production, and a deep connection to Anuv Jain’s signature sound.

India Tour Dates;

  • Delhi NCR – 16th January 2026

  • Ahmedabad – 18th January 2026

  • Pune – 23rd January 2026

  • Chandigarh – 30th January 2026

  • Kolkata – 1st February 2026

  • Hyderabad – 6th February 2026

  • Indore – 8th February 2026

  • Mumbai – 14th February 2026

  • Jaipur – 20th February 2026

  • Bengaluru – 22nd February 2026

India Ranks 2nd in APAC Real Estate Private Credit Fundraising; Set to Capture Up to 25% of Regional Growth by 2028: Knight Frank Report

Mumbai, Nov 24th: India has emerged as one of the most dynamic real estate private credit markets in the Asia-Pacific region, ranking 2nd and contributing 36% of the region’s private credit fundraising between 2020 and 2024, according to Knight Frank’s latest Horizon Report: The Rise of Real Estate Credit in Asia-Pacific – Bridging the Gap.

The report reveals that India’s private credit assets under management (AUM) have grown from USD 0.7 billion in 2010 to USD 17.8 billion in 2023, highlighting the rapid institutionalisation of the market and rising investor confidence. Backed by regulatory reforms, innovative funding structures, and increasing demand for flexible capital, India is projected to account for 20–25% of the region’s anticipated USD 90–110 billion private credit growth by 2028.

Knight Frank notes that developers’ growing reliance on non-bank financing—amid evolving regulations and tighter bank lending—has accelerated the expansion of private credit. Global private equity firms and family offices are increasingly tapping into the segment for its attractive risk-adjusted returns, especially in residential development, refinancing, and special situation funding.

India’s Market Momentum

Shishir Baijal, Chairman and Managing Director, Knight Frank India, said:

“India’s rise as a leading private credit market is driven by strong economic fundamentals and deepening institutional participation. Structured and alternative financing are helping bridge capital gaps for developers and support the rising urban housing demand. With global interest rates remaining high, private credit offers compelling opportunities backed by robust underlying assets.”

The report also highlights how structured debt, last-mile funding, and special situation investments are increasingly critical in unlocking stalled projects and resolving liquidity challenges, attracting a wider base of institutional investors.

Asia-Pacific Private Credit on a Strong Upward Trajectory

The Asia-Pacific region raised USD 11.2 billion in real estate private credit between 2020 and 2024—a 40% increase that reflects the region’s rising prominence in alternative real estate lending.

Over the next three years, Knight Frank projects USD 90–110 billion in private credit growth across major markets including Australia, Hong Kong SAR, India, and South Korea.

  • Australia is expected to drive nearly 50% of this expansion.

  • India is projected to contribute 20–25%, supported by sustained real estate debt demand.

Despite representing just 5% of global private credit fundraising, Asia-Pacific is showing strong momentum with average fund sizes consistently exceeding USD 100 million since 2022.

Australia leads the region, accounting for 40% of fundraising, with private credit now representing USD 50 billion, or 16% of the country’s commercial real estate lending. South Korea and Japan account for 11% and 5%, respectively.

Growing Participation from Family Offices

The report points to rising interest from ultra-high-net-worth individuals and family offices, who collectively manage an estimated USD 3.1 trillion in global assets.

  • 37% of family offices plan to increase indirect real estate investments within 18 months.

  • Nearly one-third aim to boost private credit allocations the highest among all asset classes.

Private credit strategies typically target returns 3–6.5% above benchmark rates, with high-yield strategies offering double-digit potential. The high-rate environment is further strengthening the appeal of this asset class.

Key Investment Themes

  1. Development Financing
    Filling gaps left by banks reducing development lending due to regulatory pressures like Basel III.

  2. Bridge & Refinancing Solutions
    Supporting markets facing valuation adjustments or bank reluctance for refinancing—especially in Hong Kong SAR and Australia.

  3. Value-Add Strategies
    Funding ESG upgrades, office conversions, and bespoke financing needs.

  4. New-Economy Assets
    Capital flowing into data centres, logistics, and build-to-rent residential projects.

Market Outlook: Positive with Selective Opportunities

While the private credit sector faces risks such as regulatory evolution and liquidity pressures, the report suggests that market share will continue to grow. However, unlike Western markets where private credit often replaces traditional lending, Asia-Pacific home to deposit-rich banking systems—will see private credit complement bank lending rather than replace it.

Simon Mathews, Director, Capital Advisory, Knight Frank, noted:

“Private credit offers speed, flexibility, and tailored solutions that are increasingly preferred by developers across Asia-Pacific. With interest rates expected to remain higher for longer, real estate private credit is positioned to deliver some of the most attractive risk-adjusted returns in over a decade.”

BD Soft Strengthens Cybersecurity for BFSI & Fintech with Advanced MDR and DLP Solutions

Mumbai,  Nov 24th: BD Software Distribution Pvt. Ltd., one of India’s leading IT and cybersecurity distributors, has strengthened its Managed Detection and Response (MDR) and Data Loss Prevention (DLP) portfolio for the BFSI and Fintech sectors, addressing escalating cyber risks driven by rapid digital banking growth and cloud-led transformation. The enhanced suite is designed to mitigate vulnerabilities arising from sophisticated phishing and ransomware attacks, insecure third-party integrations, and increased exposure of APIs and financial data across distributed digital ecosystems.

Mr.Zakir Hussain Rangwala-CEO BDSoftware

BD Soft’s expanded portfolio integrates solutions from global and Indian cybersecurity innovators:

  • Axidian (Dubai, UAE) for identity governance and privileged access management

  • FileCloud (Austin, USA) for hyper-secure Enterprise File Sync & Share (EFSS)

  • GTB Technologies (California, USA) for advanced Data Loss Prevention

  • Hunto.ai (Mumbai, India) for external threat intelligence and continuous monitoring

Together, these solutions empower financial institutions to strengthen data governance, prevent fraud, address regulatory compliance, and build resilient, zero-trust security architectures that safeguard customer confidence.

The BFSI and Fintech sectors remain prime targets for cyberattacks, with more than 60% of incidents in India now aimed at financial systems. Cloud-related breaches have increased by over 45% in the past two years. With mobile banking adoption expanding the attack surface, risks such as unauthorized access, data leakage, credential compromise, and insider threats continue to intensify—making real-time, intelligence-driven cyber defence a critical necessity.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Zakir Hussain Rangwala, CEO of BD Software Distribution Pvt. Ltd., said;
“As financial brands accelerate digital adoption, robust encryption, zero-trust architecture, and continuous monitoring are no longer optional—they are fundamental to trust and financial stability. Our focus is enabling institutions to go not just digital, but safely digital.”

BD Soft also plans to expand its cybersecurity offerings with AI-driven, cloud-native, and behaviour-based tools, strengthen partnerships with global cybersecurity leaders, and deepen its presence across key financial hubs in India.


ace turtle Appoints Alok Dubey as Chief Business Officer

ace turtle Appoints Retail Veteran Alok Dubey as Chief Business Officer to Strengthen Leadership for Next Phase of Growth

Bengaluru, Nov 24: ace turtle, India’s tech-driven retail enterprise transforming consumer shopping experiences, has announced the appointment of retail industry veteran Alok Dubey as its Chief Business Officer, strengthening its leadership team as the company gears up for its next phase of growth.

AlokDubeyPhoto2

In his new role, Dubey will head the business vertical managing the iconic heritage brands Lee® and Wrangler® in India and select South Asian markets. He will report directly to Nitin Chhabra, Chief Executive Officer, ace turtle.

An alumnus of IIM Bangalore, Dubey brings over three decades of expertise in retail and brand management, having held leadership roles at Apparel Group, Reliance Brands, Arvind Fashions, Swatch Group, and Titan. His notable 18-year stint at Arvind Fashions saw him scaling US Polo Assn. and Flying Machine into large, profitable brands. At Reliance Brands, he launched La Martina and successfully turned around Gas Jeans and Vision Express. Most recently, he served as CEO at Apparel Group India, leading Beverly Hills Polo Club and R&B labels.

Nitin Chhabra, CEO, ace turtle, said:

“Alok brings deep experience in building and scaling fashion brands in India. His leadership will be crucial as we continue to strengthen and accelerate the growth of Lee and Wrangler. His market insight and proven track record will fuel our next growth chapter.”

Alok Dubey, commenting on his appointment, said:

“I am excited to join ace turtle at a pivotal moment in its journey. Lee and Wrangler are iconic brands with strong consumer trust and emotional connect. With ace turtle’s technology-led retail model and integrated supply chain, we have a unique opportunity to scale these brands in an efficient and future-ready manner. I look forward to contributing to the next wave of growth.”

This strategic leadership addition reinforces ace turtle’s momentum in expanding its vertically integrated, technology-driven retail model and strengthening the reach of its brand portfolio across physical and digital channels.

Last month, ace turtle further expanded its fashion portfolio by onboarding Amsterdam-based G-STAR, adding to its roster of globally acclaimed fashion brands alongside Lee and Wrangler.

Indian Cricketer Shafali Verma Drives Home the MG Cyberster

Gurugram, Nov 24th: Indian cricketer Shafali Verma has taken delivery of the MG Cyberster, World’s Fastest MG. Perfectly suited to her bold, fearless and dynamic persona, the MG Cyberster reflects her taste for bold design, technology and superior performance.

Shafali Verma Drives Home the MG Cyberster 2

Shafali is the youngest player, to represent India in all three formats of international cricket and played a pivotal role in the 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup victory. A seamless fit, the Cyberster embodies the same champion mindset that defined her stellar performance on the global stage. It is designed for those who crave performance and presence, the Cyberster pairs its bold stance with active aerodynamic elements and a long sweeping bonnet inspired by classic roadsters.

Aimed at reimagining open-top motoring for a new generation, the MG Cyberster blends iconic British roadster heritage with cutting-edge EV innovation. With its dramatic electric scissor doors, sculpted silhouette and driver-centric digital cockpit, the Cyberster is crafted for those who appreciate design that demands attention and performance that leaves a lasting impression.

The Cyberster combines a bold, athletic stance with active aerodynamic elements that enhance control and agility. Its long, sweeping bonnet—drawing inspiration from classic roadsters adds a touch of heritage to its modern electric design. The result is a car that feels purposeful, confident, and ready to deliver an engaging drive every time.

The Cyberster delivers an exhilarating dual-motor all-wheel-drive experience, producing 510 PS and 725 Nm of torque, launching from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds. Tuned by Formula 1 engineering legend Marco Fainello, the Cyberster promises a dynamic yet refined drive, combining sharp handling with a chassis engineered for precision. With its electrically operated convertible roof that drops in 10 seconds, the Cyberster offers the perfect blend of open-sky freedom and sports-car intensity. The MG Cyberster is available for experience and booking across MG SELECT Experience Centres.

FICCI’s Finance Conclave 2025 Charts the Future of Global Finance

Hyderabad, Nov 24: The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), organised the ‘Finance Conclave 2025’, themed ‘Navigating Transformation in a Dynamic Global Economy’, today at The Park, Hyderabad. The conclave brought together top policymakers, industry leaders, financial experts, and international stakeholders for an in-depth dialogue on the forces reshaping global finance.

Photo 2480

The event served as a premier platform to explore how the finance function is transforming from a traditional, transactional role into a strategic engine of business value. Sessions underscored the growing influence of digitalisation, automation, AI, and data analytics in redefining financial operations, governance, and decision-making. Speakers shared actionable insights on leveraging technology to boost agility, enhance forecasting precision, strengthen cross-functional partnerships, and enable finance leaders to steer growth, innovation, and sustainable performance in an increasingly volatile economic landscape.

The inaugural ceremony featured Special Addresses by Mr. CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda; President, ICAI, and Mr. CA. Ananda Rao Potnuru, President, Hyderabad Chartered Accountants’ Society. This was followed by a compelling Theme Address from Ms. Seema Grover, Head of Finance  India & Emerging Markets, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, and a powerful Keynote Address by Mr. CA. Salil Kumar Mishra, CFO, MEIL Group. Mr. V V Rama Raju, Chairman, FICCI Telangana State Council & Founder & MD, Gaja Engineering, delivered the welcome address, while Mr. Jayadev Meela, Co-Chairman, FICCI Telangana State Council & Managing Director, Sudhakar Group, proposed the vote of thanks.

Mr. CA. Charanjot Singh Nanda; President, ICAI; in his virtual address said, The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) was established in 1949, even before India adopted its Constitution. The Constituent Assembly envisioned a disciplined corps of financial professionals who could guide a young nation out of uncertainty and onto a path of sustained growth. Today, ICAI stands as the world’s largest accounting body, with over five lakh members and eleven lakh students. From being partners in nation-building, we have evolved into partners in global progress. In this dynamic environment, finance professionals are no longer mere custodians of numbers; they are strategic navigators, regulators, stakeholders, and enablers of societal resilience and confidence. To stay ahead, we must align with international best practices, adapt them to our local context, and integrate them into our work to deliver the highest standards of excellence.

Mr. CA. Ananda Rao Potnuru; President, Hyderabad Chartered Accountants’ Society; said, the global economy today is deeply interconnected, capital, goods, technology, and talent move seamlessly across borders. A policy shift in Washington can ripple through Mumbai, and an innovation in Bengaluru can reshape markets in Europe. In such a world, survival hinges on adaptability, and leadership demands constant reinvention. This decade calls for strategic, sustainable, and systematic transformation. Our standards must evolve from being compliance-driven to intelligence-driven, with data, cybersecurity, and AI forming the core of financial governance. In an era of rising digital fraud, staying updated and digitally proficient is no longer optional, it’s essential.

Ms. Seema Grover; Head of Finance  India & Emerging Markets, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories; said, today, institutions like ICAI, SEBI, and NFRA are driving a new era of robust corporate governance. To deepen this understanding, we are privileged to have two distinguished speakers who will share their insights on the future of corporate governance, financial reporting, and evolving standards. Our second session explores the power of technology, can AI close our books, can MIS sharpen decision-making, and how far can automation transform our processes? A seasoned CFO will bring these ideas to life with real-world experiences. The third session turns to the global landscape, focusing on how financial leaders can navigate geopolitical shifts and macroeconomic uncertainty with agility and confidence.

Mr. CA. Salil Kumar Mishra; CFO, MEIL Group; said, the role of a finance professional today goes far beyond being a business partner, we are co-founders in spirit and function. Promoters now expect finance to support every dimension of the business, not just balance the books. Traditional balancing is outdated; with AI and advanced software handling routine tasks, our real value lies in interpretation and strategic insight. A CFO’s core responsibility is to drive the business alongside the promoters. Finance is the powerhouse behind execution, and even a small analytical error can derail an entire project. We’ve seen several infrastructure companies in Hyderabad collapse due to weak financial planning and execution. Predictive finance now shapes project strategy, it’s no longer about post-mortem analysis. As CFOs, we must shed conventional mindsets and bring forward ideas that are technology-driven, ownership-driven, and responsibility-driven. Ultimately, we are custodians of growth that is sustainable, ethical, and resilient.

Mr. V V Rama Raju; Chairman, FICCI Telangana State Council & Founder & MD, Gaja Engineering; in his welcome address said, today’s theme, “Navigating Transformation in a Dynamic Global Economy,” highlights the finance function’s shift from transactional reporting to strategic leadership. It is especially relevant as we face rapid technological change, rising risks, and constantly shifting global dynamics. Geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, inflationary pressures, rising tariffs, and economic volatility are reshaping financial strategy and limiting forecasting clarity. In this environment, the future belongs to organisations that are bold in adopting digital technologies, strong in governance, high in performance, and agile in decision-making. The future of finance will be global, digital, data-driven, and sustainable. The finance function is now firmly recognised as a strategic partner aligned with the organisation’s core objectives.

Mr. P R Ramesh, Independent Non-Executive Director, Nestlé India Ltd., responding to a point during the panel discussion he said, across the world, the credibility of financial reporting has hit its lowest point. Despite subsequent corrective measures by regulators in the US, India, and elsewhere, we continue to witness major corporate failures in financial reporting, raising a fundamental question, as to what were the Boards doing? Many of these companies were audited by top firms, had celebrated boards, and operated with sophisticated systems. Yet the cracks were massive. As far back as 1988, the Chairman of the Securities Exchange Commission remarked that most US financial statements were “cooked” some lightly, others completely roasted. For the regulator of the world’s financial capital to say this was alarming, and several Fortune 500 companies soon proved him right. The reality is that Board members, including audit committee members, typically spend only 75 to 100 hours a year on a company. They don’t review books of account, aren’t involved in day-to-day operations, and yet are expected to uphold governance. With strict insider-trading laws, most blue-chip companies share financials with Directors only on the day of the meeting or, at best, a day prior. Even the most brilliant Chartered Accountant on a Board cannot meaningfully analyse such limited, last-minute information. Given this structure, governance inevitably relies heavily on what auditors present. And when that foundation cracks, the entire system falters.

A thought-provoking panel on Indian Standards & Governance in Accounting, featuring Mr. P R Ramesh, Independent Non-Executive Director, Nestlé India Ltd., and Mr. Govind Ahuja, Partner, S. R. Batliboi & Co. LLP, examined the evolution of Indian Accounting Standards, their convergence with global IFR principles, compliance challenges, emerging governance frameworks, and the pivotal role of transparency in building stakeholder trust.

FICCI’s Finance Conclave 2025 Charts the Future of Global FinanceSession on Insights on Finance TransformationMr. M V NarasimhamCFO, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories; highlighted the finance function’s shift from a transactional role to a strategic driver of enterprise value. He underscored how digitalisation, automation, AI, and analytics are reshaping financial operations and governance, and shared practical insights on using technology to enhance agility, improve forecasting, and strengthen business partnerships, empowering finance leaders to drive innovation, growth, and long-term sustainability.

Another engaging session, led by Mr. Jitendra Gohil, CIO, Bajaj Alternate Investment Management Ltd., addressed Economic Peace, Geopolitics, Supply Chain Impact, Rising Prices & Tariffs. The discussion unpacked how geopolitical tensions, tariff shifts, and global realignments are influencing trade flows, investment patterns, and business resilience. Experts highlighted India’s emerging opportunities, the urgency for adaptive financial planning, and strategies to navigate global uncertainties.

In the panel on Leadership Perspective on the Strategic Role of Finance, speakers Mr. KVS Ramrao, Partner, VB Group, and Mr. Rahul Chattopadhyay, Chartered Accountant, illuminated how finance leaders are expected to drive customer-centric value, proactively mitigate business risks, and deliver advanced analytics that guide competitive strategy.

A standout feature of the conclave was the exclusive CXO Dialogue, featuring Ms. Lakshmi Iyer, Group President  Investments & CEO, Bajaj Alternate Investment Management Ltd., and Mr. M V Narasimham, CFO, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, joining virtually; along with Mr. Jitendra Gohil and Ms. Seema Grover, engaging in person. This rare interactive exchange offered delegates deep insights into leadership philosophies, financial stewardship, and strategic decision-making amid today’s rapidly shifting economic environment.

The Finance Conclave 2025 concluded on a high note, equipping participants with forward-looking perspectives, strategic frameworks, and transformative ideas to navigate the future of finance with confidence.

Bengaluru dances with Zumba creator Beto Pérez

Bengaluru, Nov 24: Zumba Fitness delivered an unforgettable experience today as Beto Pérez, the creator of Zumba, brought his signature energy to Bengaluru during a high-intensity Zumba Master Class at Algorythm in Nexus Shantiniketan Mall. The event drew a vibrant and enthusiastic crowd of ZINs and Zumba lovers from across the country, all eager to dance with the person who transformed global fitness culture with the power of music and movement.

Beto Perez, Co-Founder and Creator, Zumba Fitness

Participants began gathering at the venue from 5 pm onwards, filling the space with excitement as they prepared for a rare opportunity to learn from Beto in person. The session came to life the moment he stepped on stage, guiding the crowd with his trademark energy and presence that has shaped the global Zumba experience for years. 

The event highlighted the deep connection between the Indian Zumba community and the global movement it represents. Instructors, long-time practitioners and first-time participants all came together to celebrate fitness in a setting filled with positivity and shared enthusiasm. 

Demand for Zumba classes continues to soar in India and with it the demand for licensed instructors. Zumba has 14 Education Specialists across India, authorized to train new instructors. One such training is taking place on 23rd of November in Bengaluru and Beto will be joining as a guest – a rare opportunity for new instructors to learn the Zumba programme from the creator himself. 

Speaking at the event, Beto Pérez, Co-Founder and Creator of Zumba, said,

“Every time I meet the Zumba community in India, I feel the same passion and warmth that inspired the very beginning of this program. Today is a reminder that movement gives people a sense of freedom and joy that nothing else can replace. When we dance together, we create a space where fitness becomes a celebration and every person feels included. I am grateful to be here and to share this experience with so many people who bring incredible energy to the Zumba spirit.”

The Bengaluru master class marked a special moment for Zumba fans across India who had eagerly awaited Beto’s return. The event brought together movement, music and community in a way that showcased the enduring power of Zumba and its impact around the world.

June Roshni Lobo Unveils My Father’s Earthen Vessel — a Soulful Tribute to Love, Legacy and Memory

Mumbai,  Nov 24: Writer and creative professional June Roshni Lobo unveiled her deeply personal debut, My Father’s Earthen Vessel, at an intimate evening at Title Waves, Bandra West. The launch was honoured by singer, author, & actress, who is popularly known for her role in ‘Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa’ Suchitra Krishnamoorthi, Madhoo, Shah (Actress known for iconic performances in Roja and Phool Aur Kaante) & Indrani Malkani. Chairman Trustee. V Citizens Action Network (VCAN) and created a warm, nostalgic atmosphere that perfectly suited the book’s themes.

Actress Madhoo Shah

L To R_Actress Madhoo Shah_ Indrani Malkani_Shobha_June Roshni Lobo & Suchitra Krishnamoorthi

My Father’s Earthen Vessel is a lyrical meditation on the father–child bon, a gentle, evocative exploration of love, loss and inheritance. Moving between prose and poetry, June traces the small, everyday moments that form a life’s worth of memory: the silent strengths, the habits that linger, and the tender rituals that keep a presence alive.

Speaking at the launch, Suchitra Krishnamoorthi said, “Supporting this book today feels deeply personal. As someone who has always been a father’s girl, I connected instantly with June’s theme and the emotional honesty in her writing. In a world where being an author takes immense courage, with rewards that are more soulful than material, her work stands out for its sincerity and heart. The parts I read moved me, because they speak to how our parents shape us long after they’re gone. I’m truly happy to be here and to celebrate this beautiful tribute.”

Madhoo Shah said, I’m honoured to be part of this launch. When Shobha shared the synopsis of My Father’s Earthen Vessel, I immediately connected with its themes of discipline, resilience and the quiet strength we inherit from our parents. These are values that have shaped my own journey as an artist. In a world driven by constant validation, this book is a reminder of the grounding forces that keep us focused, committed and true to our craft. I’m grateful to support a work that speaks so meaningfully to the professional and personal foundations that guide us all.”

Indrani Malkani added further, Curiosity brought me here this evening, the name June and the name Roshni instantly struck a personal chord. And when I spoke to the author early this morning, I felt an immediate connection to the spirit of the book. As someone who works closely with communities and believes deeply in values passed down through generations, the theme of a daughter’s relationship with her father resonated strongly with me. Our fathers shape our conscience, our courage and the way we serve the world. This book is a heartfelt reminder of those roots, and I’m glad to stand here in support of it.”

June Roshni Lobo shared, “We were raised to understand the value of gratitude, to recognise the people, moments and lessons that shape us. And that is the essence I wanted to express today while speaking about My Father’s Earthen Vessel. The book is a reminder of how our upbringing, especially the values passed down by our parents, quietly guide us through life. I’m grateful to have been part of this moment and to honour a story built on love, memory and heartfelt gratitude.””

The evening unfolded with heartfelt readings, reflections, and warm exchanges, as guests resonated with the universal emotions that the book evokes. The atmosphere at Title Waves was intimate and moving, a celebration of family, memory, and the stories that live on within us.

With its lyrical voice and universal appeal, My Father’s Earthen Vessel stands as a timeless reminder that love, like clay, can be shaped, broken, and remade, yet never truly lost.

About the Author
June Roshni Lobo is a writer and creative professional whose work explores memory, belonging and emotional inheritance. My Father’s Earthen Vessel is her debut book.