Archives 2025

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

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 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.

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.

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 Transformation, Mr. M V Narasimham, CFO, 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, 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.

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.

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.

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.

New Delhi, Nov 23: The Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) honoured Shri Surinder Verma, Chairman of the Citizens Awareness Group, for his outstanding contribution to investor awareness and financial education.

The felicitation took place at the SEBI Pavilion, Hall No. 3, Pragati Maidan, during the India International Trade Fair (IITF), in the presence of senior officials, industry representatives, and key stakeholders from the financial sector.

AMFI conferred this recognition to acknowledge Shri Verma’s sustained efforts in promoting financial literacy and equipping citizens with reliable, accessible, and practical investment knowledge. His extensive outreach initiatives and educational programmes have played a significant role in strengthening investor awareness across the country, particularly at the grassroots level.

An AMFI official, while appreciating Shri Verma’s work, said, “Shri Surinder Verma has made a notable contribution to advancing investor education in India. His initiatives have helped thousands of individuals better understand their financial rights, responsibilities, and opportunities. AMFI is honoured to recognise his exemplary service.”

The felicitation was part of the programme titled “Investor Education and Awareness – 2025,” held in the “Bharat Ka Share Bazar” Pavilion. The event witnessed active participation and smooth coordination, supported by AMFI’s dedicated team.

This recognition highlights the importance of individuals who continue to strengthen India’s financial awareness ecosystem. The event concluded with appreciation from attendees and reaffirmed AMFI’s ongoing commitment to promoting investor education nationwide.

The National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) proudly announces the much-awaited International Jazz Festival 2025, returning with an electrifying line-up of world-renowned jazz artistes. Since its inception in 2011, the festival has brought some of the finest global talent to India, celebrating the soulful diversity of jazz—from intimate trios to powerful big bands.

The 2025 edition promises an unforgettable musical journey, featuring four internationally acclaimed performers across three days, highlighting the depth, versatility, and global appeal of jazz.

Festival Highlights & Line-up

Day 1 – November 21 | 7:00 PM

Peter Cincotti
Internationally celebrated singer-songwriter and pianist Peter Cincotti opens the festival with his signature blend of jazz, pop, and energetic stage presence. Known for topping the Billboard charts at a young age, Cincotti brings a captivating fusion of classic and contemporary jazz.

Day 2 – November 22 | 6:00 PM

Nicki Parrott
Australian bassist and vocalist Nicki Parrott takes the stage with her emotive voice and impeccable bass craft. A favourite on global jazz circuits, Parrott’s performance promises warmth, elegance, and timeless jazz standards reimagined with finesse.

Day 2 – November 22 | 8:00 PM

Mike Stern Band feat. Dennis Chambers
Jazz fusion icons Mike Stern (guitar) and Dennis Chambers (drums) come together for a powerhouse performance. Known for their electric energy and unparalleled technical brilliance, this duo is set to deliver one of the festival’s most dynamic concerts.

Day 3 – November 23 | 6:30 PM

Brian Bromberg
Closing the festival is acclaimed bassist and composer Brian Bromberg, whose innovative approach to acoustic and electric bass has earned him global recognition. His performance will showcase exceptional technique complemented by expressive, genre-defying compositions.

A Legacy of Jazz Excellence

Over the years, the NCPA International Jazz Festival has become a cultural landmark, uniting jazz lovers and newcomers through extraordinary performances. This year’s festival reaffirms NCPA’s commitment to bringing world-class music experiences to India while fostering a deeper appreciation of jazz.

Event Details

• Venue: NCPA, Mumbai

• Dates: November 21–23, 2025

• Passes & Tickets: Available through the NCPA Box Office and official website

Kochi,  Nov 22:- In a landmark tribute to India’s military heritage and a powerful showcase of the future of digital construction, Simpliforge, a Hyderabad-based DeepTech company, in collaboration with IIT Hyderabad, has developed and built the country’s first and largest Military Insignia Entrance Arch.

Designed in the commanding form of a Tiger face, symbolizing the bravery, strength, and indomitable spirit of the Indian Armed Forces, this iconic structure now stands tall at the Jhansi Cantonment.

This first-of-its-kind architectural marvel is more than an entrance it is a statement of technological excellence and national pride. Measuring 5.7m x 3.2m x 5.4m, the arch has been constructed using Simpliforge’s cutting-edge robotic arm–based 3D concrete printing technology, marking a major breakthrough in defence-focused infrastructure innovation. The Tiger-themed arch also serves as the gateway to an indoor sports arena within the cantonment, seamlessly blending symbolic design with functional utility.

The project was conceptualized under the visionary leadership of Colonel Akhil Singh Charak. Structural and design development was led in partnership with Prof. K. V. L. Subramaniam (HAG) at IIT Hyderabad and Simpliforge.

From ideation to execution, the entrance was meticulously engineered to inspire a sense of pride and reverence among all who pass through it. Its striking design stands as a futuristic testament to the potential of indigenous innovation in reshaping India’s defence infrastructure.

Colonel Akhil Singh Charak (Indian Army) shared;
“This entrance is more than just a structure it represents the ethos of our forces: ‘Naam, Namak, Nishan.’ What began as a bold vision has now taken physical form, reflecting our legacy, our pride, and the forward-looking mindset of the Indian Army. I deeply appreciate the contributions of IIT Hyderabad and Simpliforge in advancing 3D printing technology and redefining military infrastructure.”

Speaking about the façade, Dr. K. V. L. Subramaniam (HAG, IIT Hyderabad) said;
“The Tiger façade demonstrates how advanced 3D concrete printing allows us to transcend conventional design limits. Using locally sourced materials and a custom-developed printable mix, we fabricated a complex organic geometry that blends engineering precision with architectural expression. This project marks a new era of synergy between material science, structural innovation, and digital fabrication.”

Mr. Faizan Chaudhary, Founder & COO, Simpliforge, added;
“From day one, we knew this project carried great significance. Watching the Tiger emerge layer by layer over 45 days was surreal. At Simpliforge, our mission is to reimagine construction through 3D printing, creating bold and meaningful structures that push the boundaries of possibility. This project reinforces our commitment to futuristic, high-impact innovation.”

Project Highlights

• Location: Army Cantonment, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh

• User: Indian Army

• Project Duration: 45 Days

• Dimensions: 5.7m (W) x 3.2m (D) x 5.4m (H)

• Materials: 3DCP mortar developed using local materials

• Technology: Robotic Arm-Based Concrete 3D Printing

• Technology Advisor: Prof. K. V. L. Subramaniam, IIT Hyderabad

• Structural Design Partner: Dr. Rangarao V. V.

• Development Partner: Simpliforge (led by Founder & COO, Faizan Chaudhary)

Airtel Teams Up with Sandalwood’s Badshah Kichcha Sudeep for MARK;

In a proud and historic moment for Sandalwood, Airtel, one of India’s largest telecom giants, has entered into an exclusive collaboration with the highly anticipated mass entertainer MARK, starring Badshah Kichcha Sudeep. This landmark partnership marks Airtel’s first-ever association with a Kannada feature film.

Set to release worldwide on December 25 in Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu, the film promises a high-octane cinematic experience for audiences across regions.

Airtel Launches the MARK Exclusive Pack;

To celebrate this breakthrough collaboration and reward movie enthusiasts, Airtel has introduced the MARK Exclusive Pack, offering customers new SIM cards with fresh 9-series numbers.

Airtel will further elevate fan engagement through a special contest, where 100 lucky customers will win FREE movie tickets to witness the cinematic spectacle.

The partnership was officially formalized today during a meeting between superstar Kichcha Sudeep and Mr. Rajnish Verma, CEO Airtel Karnataka.

MARK releases worldwide on December 25 in Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu.