All posts by Sujata Achary

Sony Entertainment Television is all set to bring to life an extraordinary tale of courage, leadership, and legacy with its upcoming historical drama, Chakravarti Samrat Prithviraj Chauhan. This magnum opus will focus on the making of a child king – Prithviraj Chauhan – and his journey from a young, innocent prince to a mighty warrior and revered ruler. The show will delve into the formative years of Prithviraj, showcasing the challenges and triumphs that helped shape him into one of the legendary rulers.

Acclaimed actor Ronit Roy will be seen essaying the pivotal role of Prithviraj Chauhan’s father – Someshwar, whose guidance and mentorship were instrumental in molding his son into one of the greatest rulers. Someshwar is not just a father but also a teacher and protector who recognizes the immense potential in young Prithviraj and nurtures him to take on the mighty responsibilities of kingship. As Prithviraj grows, Someshwar becomes his guiding force—imbibing in him the values of bravery, wisdom, and justice.

Expressing his excitement about the role, Ronit Roy shares, “I feel extremely privileged to be part of a show as grand and meaningful as Chakravarti Samrat Prithviraj Chauhan. I have always been drawn to powerful, well-etched characters, and Someshwar is one such role. I truly believe that this character and the show will leave a lasting impact, much like the other roles I have played on television. It is an honor to be part of a story with such immense historical and cultural significance. The show beautifully captures the making of a child king, and I portray Someshwar, Prithviraj Chauhan’s father—a man whose wisdom, strength, and guidance played a crucial role in shaping the future of a great ruler.”

Stay tuned as Chakravarti Samrat Prithviraj Chauhan launches soon on Sony Entertainment Television and Sony Liv!

Ahmedabad, India and Nijmegen, Netherlands, February 14, 2025

Zydus Lifesciences Ltd. (including its subsidiaries and affiliates), a global innovation-driven healthcare company announced that it has signed an exclusive development, licensing, supply,, and commercialization agreement with Synthon BV of the Netherlands for a novel 505(B)(2) Oncology product for an undisclosed target.

Under the terms of this agreement, Synthon will be responsible for the development, manufacturing, and supply of the finished product. Zydus will be responsible for the NDA submission and commercialization of the product in the US. This 505(B)(2) Oncology product will likely be filed in 2026 and will be offering additional strengths that are intended to provide reduced pill burden, flexibility for dose adjustment, and enhanced patient compliance.

Speaking on the development, Managing Director of Zydus Lifesciences Ltd., Dr. Sharvil Patel said, “We are pleased to partner with Synthon for the commercialization of this complex drug product in the US market. The partnership will bring access to a high unmet-need therapy area. We are certain that by pooling our resources and knowledge, we will meetthe  critical needs of patients and stakeholders.”

Anish Mehta, CEO of Synthon BV, stated, “This 505(B)(2) product is another example of Synthon’s superior complex product development capabilities and represents a strategic move toward more complex and clinically differentiated products. We are excited to strengthen our partnership with Zydus, who will bring this critical medicine to market to provide patients with important treatment alternatives for this extremely challenging condition.”

Mumbai, February 14, 2025: R K Swamy Limited, the only Integrated Marketing Services provider listed on the main board of BSE/NSE, posted a consolidated total income of Rs 79.4 crores, up 8% compared to Rs 73.5 crores during the same period a year ago. PBT for this period was Rs 4.3 crores this year versus Rs 7.6 crores last year, due to increased investments in people and capacity addition.

The company announced a string of initiatives designed to augment its core professional capacity and competence. “Our new Customer Experience Centre with a capacity for 600 associates is ready. This augments our total capacity to 1,900 associates, an increase of 46%. Our capacity expansion of Computer Aided Telephone Interview (CATI) from 400 to 746 stations has been initiated and will be completed by Q1 of the next financial year. This will serve our client’s marketing operations, and increase our ability to meet their growing needs,” said Shekar Swamy, MD, and Group CEO, of R K SWAMY Ltd.

For the nine months ended December 31, 2024, the Company’s Total Income was marginally higher at Rs. 219.0 crores (PY Rs 216.1 crores). Consolidated PBT for the first nine months of the financial year was Rs 9.6 crores as compared to Rs 18.5 crores in the corresponding period a year ago. “We are putting the building blocks in place for sustained growth. We are committed to investing in the right talent and this is a priority for us,” continued Swamy.

“We are focused on enterprise clients and large institutions. We have the experience and capability to meet the requirements of these demanding engagements. Our growth will be driven by our clients with whom we enjoy long-standing relationships. This gives us the confidence to make continuing investments in building capacity,” said Rajeev Newar, Group CFO.

Disclaimer: Certain statements in this “Release” may not be based on historical information or facts and may be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws and regulations, including, but not limited to, those relating to general business plans & strategy of the Company, its future outlook & growth prospects, future developments in its businesses, its competitive & regulatory environment and management’s current views & assumptions which may not remain constant due to risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied. The Company and its management assume no responsibility to publicly amend, modify, or revise any statement, based on any subsequent development, information, or events, or otherwise. The financial results are consolidated financials unless otherwise specified.

Love has a unique way of uniting two souls, often in the most unexpected places. For actor Ashish Dixit, who portrays Kartik in Chatti Maiyya Ki Bitiya on Sun Neo, destiny worked its magic on the sets of a horror film. On the occasion of Valentine’s Day, Ashish shares his love story, what began as a simple friendship on set soon evolved into something much deeper.

Recalling their journey, Ashish shares, “We first met on the set of a horror film while shooting at Rajvant Palace in Baroda. That’s where our friendship started. Over time, our bond grew stronger, and we felt a special connection between us. Slowly, we realized that this was not just friendship it was something deeper, a relationship close to the heart. After returning to Mumbai, we started dating. For about three years, we got to know and understand each other, spending a lot of time together. Eventually, we realized that our love was strong enough to last a lifetime. That’s when we decided to take the beautiful step of getting married.”

Ashish also cherishes a special trip that remains one of the most beautiful moments of their love story, “There are many beautiful memories in our love story that I will never forget. But one of the closest to my heart was during a time when I was working on another show. I got a short break of about four to five days, so Shweta and I decided to make it special by taking a trip to Goa. Every moment there was magical! Walking peacefully by the beach, candlelight dinners, romantic evenings, and lots of fun it was all unforgettable. Those days were some of the most beautiful in our lives because there was no stress, no rush just us and our little world of happiness.”

Chatti Maiyya Ki Bitiya, airing on Sun Neo at 7 PM, follows Vaishnavi, an orphan who draws strength and comfort from her unshakable faith in Chatti Maiyya, who acts as a motherly figure in her life. The show features a talented ensemble cast, including Sneha Wagh, Sara Khan, Jaya Bhattacharya, Brinda Dahal, and Ashish Dixit.

14th February 2025: TTF Bengaluru, one of India’s premier travel trade shows, is back at Palace Grounds this week, bringing together a diverse mix of national and international exhibitors, top buyers, and enthusiastic travellers under one roof. As the gateway to South India’s booming travel market, this event offers unparalleled business and networking opportunities for exhibitors while giving buyers and consumers direct access to a world of travel options, best deals and packages. TTF Bengaluru is scheduled to take place from 13-15 February at Tripuravasini, Palace Grounds (near Mekhri Circle, entry from Gate no 2).

This year TTF Bengaluru will be inaugurated by Smt. Salma K Fahim, IAS, Secretary to Government, Tourism Department, Government of Karnataka and Shri. Dr. Rajendra KV, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, and Managing Director of Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation.

With Bengaluru’s reputation as the “Silicon Valley of India” and a thriving hub for corporate travel, destination weddings, and high-spending travellers, TTF Bengaluru 2025 is opening doors to the next big travel market and players after Mumbai, Delhi and Gujarat for the travel industry.

A Vital Platform for Exhibitors to Tap into South India’s Travel Market
South India is a rapidly growing travel market with a high concentration of outbound and domestic travellers, making Bengaluru a strategic location for tourism stakeholders. TTF Bengaluru provides 150+ exhibitors—including tourism boards, travel companies, hospitality brands, airlines, and travel tech providers—a unique opportunity to connect with key buyers and decision-makers from the region.

The upcoming TTF Bengaluru will feature an impressive lineup of national and international tourism boards, such as the Nepal Tourism Board, India Tourism, Goa Tourism, Karnataka Tourism, Meghalaya Tourism, Telangana Tourism, Gujarat Tourism, Tamil Nadu Tourism, Jharkhand Tourism, and many others. Additionally, private exhibitors showcasing at TTF include Briar Tea Bungalows, Southern Travels, Kolahoi Green Hotel & Resorts, Timbertales Hotels & Resorts, SOTC Travel, SR Jungle Resort, Indian Circuit Holidays, and many more.

TTF is more than just exploring new destinations—it’s about building valuable connections with industry leaders by engaging in exclusive networking sessions, exchanging ideas with top travel professionals, and unlocking new business opportunities.

Exclusive Access for B2B Trade Visitors
For the first one and a half days, TTF Bengaluru is exclusively open to B2B trade visitors, allowing exhibitors to engage with top travel agents, tour operators, MICE planners, corporate travel managers, and wedding planners. This dedicated time ensures high-quality networking and deal-making, positioning TTF Bengaluru as a must-attend event for those looking to expand their reach in South India’s flourishing travel industry.

A One-Stop Destination for Travel Enthusiasts
On the final one-and-a-half days, the event welcomes general visitors, offering travellers the perfect chance to discover new and exciting destinations, compare options, and secure the best flight and travel deals for their next adventure. From domestic getaways to international vacations, visitors can explore various travel opportunities, discover exclusive discounts, and make informed travel decisions—all in one place.

Analysis by Antonio Di Giacomo, Financial Markets Analyst for LATAM at XS

“The S&P 500 fell more than 1%, February 14, 2025, reaching the 6,005-point zone after releasing Consumer Price Index (CPI) data, which came in higher than expected. This report significantly reduced the Federal Reserve’s expectations of interest rate cuts, creating uncertainty in financial markets. Investors reacted with massive sell-offs, pushing the index to last week’s lows.

The year-over-year CPI stood at 3.0%, while the core CPI rose to 3.3%, both above forecasts. On a monthly basis, January 2025’s CPI increased by 0.5% versus the expected 0.3%, while the core CPI registered a 0.4% rise, exceeding the projected 0.3%. These figures reinforce the perception that inflation remains challenging for U.S. monetary policy. The price rise for essential goods and services also suggests persistent inflationary pressure.

The market had been anticipating potential interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve to stimulate economic growth. However, the persistence of higher-than-expected inflation makes monetary easing in the short term more difficult. Investors now fear the Fed will maintain its restrictive policy longer than expected. This scenario generates increased volatility in financial markets, impacting the performance of other risk assets.

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell reiterated that while inflation is approaching the 2% target, it has not yet reached a level that justifies rate cuts. This message further heightened market concerns, suggesting that rate reductions could be delayed until late 2025, depending on economic data trends. Powell’s comments made it clear that the Fed needs to see more consistent signs of controlled inflation before shifting its stance.

The market’s initial reaction was a sharp decline, reflecting the impact of uncertainty surrounding monetary policy. However, as the session progressed, the S&P 500 showed signs of recovery, reaching the 6,050-point zone by the close of trading in New York. This behavior highlights market volatility and sensitivity to macroeconomic data. Despite the rebound, uncertainty persists, and further declines could occur in the short term.

Despite the partial recovery, the outlook remains uncertain. Investors may now focus on upcoming economic reports and statements from Fed officials, looking for clues on the future direction of monetary policy and its impact on markets. External factors such as labor market trends and geopolitical stability will also play a key role in shaping the stock market’s trajectory.

In conclusion, releasing higher-than-expected inflation data has caused market nervousness, affecting the S&P 500’s performance and dampening hopes for near-term rate cuts. In the coming months, uncertainty over future Federal Reserve decisions will remain a key factor in market developments. Investors must stay vigilant for new economic signals to adjust their strategies in an increasingly challenging environment.”

Chandigarh, 13th February 2025: The Aerospace business of Godrej & Boyce, a part of Godrej Enterprises Group, is strengthening its commitment to India’s self-reliance vision through signing of multiple significant MoUs during Aero India 2025 at Bengaluru to support national programs backed by the Government of India. A Memorandum of Understanding signed with the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), Ministry of Defence, GoI marks a crucial step forward in Indigenous manufacturing of flight control actuators for India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program.

This MoU builds upon Godrej’s two-decade-long partnership with ADA in developing components for flight-critical DDV-based servo actuators and associated functional elements. This collaboration represents a significant advancement in India’s journey toward self-reliance in critical aerospace technologies. Under the MoU, Godrej Enterprises Group will undertake comprehensive development of Flight Control Actuators for AMCA, including precision manufacturing, procurement of aerospace-grade raw materials, assembly and testing, and development of test rigs for qualification tests.

The business is transitioning from ‘Built to Print’ to ‘Built to Spec’ capabilities while embracing transformative technologies like 3D printing to revolutionize its manufacturing processes and design capabilities. This advanced technology enables the creation of complex components in a single printing process, eliminating multiple traditional production stages and significantly improving operational efficiency. The business is also accredited by DGAQA, DRDO labs, ISRO centers, HAL, BDL, BEL, and other leading global aerospace firms like Boeing, GE Aerospace, Honeywell, IAI, Parker Aerospace, Rafael, Rolls-Royce, and Safran.

Maneck Behramkamdin, Senior Vice President and Business Headof the aerospace business of Godrej & Boyce, a part of Godrej Enterprises Group, said, “This partnership exemplifies our commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat in the aerospace sector. We are proud to be at the forefront of India’s aerospace revolution, turning the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat into a reality through cutting-edge engineering and precision manufacturing. We continue to enable and elevate India’s manufacturing capabilities and competitiveness at a global level.”

At Aero India 2025, the business is showcasing its comprehensive range of aerospace manufacturing capabilities. The exhibition highlights include advanced aero engine components such as fans, compressors, turbines, and shafts manufactured from exotic materials, demonstrating the company’s sophisticated machining capabilities. The display features precision-engineered tubes, ducts, and brackets, Titanium, Aluminum, and Stainless Steel, alongside indigenously manufactured Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) including actuators, nose-wheel steering manifolds, lubrication pumps, and uplocks. A working model of an Ejector Release Unit (ERU) for aircraft pylons and various carbon fiber composite parts designed for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) further demonstrates the company’s diverse expertise.

Chandigarh, February 13, 2025: ICICI Bank has announced the adoption of state-of-the-art technology to produce drinking water from atmospheric moisture as part of its commitment to enhancing the sustainability of its operations. The Bank has installed units to produce 8,000 liters of potable water a day from atmospheric moisture, benefitting 4,200 employees at five offices– one each in Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Mumbai– and two in Chennai.

The units—known as Atmospheric Water Generators (AWGs)—utilize innovative technology to convert atmospheric moisture into 100% microbe-free, fresh, and clean drinking water. The process of condensation transforms water vapor into droplets, which then undergo multiple filtration processes. Essential minerals are added at the end of the process. The AWGs can produce water throughout the year as they can operate in a wide range of ambient temperatures (18°C-45°C) and relative humidity (25%- 100%).

Mr. Soumendra Mattagajasingh, Group Chief Human Resources Officer, ICICI Bank, said, “At ICICI Bank, we are committed to conducting our business sustainably and responsibly to reduce the impact of our operations on the environment. Our strategy for environmental and ecological conservation is led by the 4R (reduce, reuse, recycle, and responsible disposal) principle of environmental stewardship. It is estimated that the atmospheric moisture holds several times of the fresh water in all rivers on the planet. To leverage this renewable resource, we have installed the AWGs at our offices to convert water vapor into drinking water. This initiative reduces our dependence on packaged water, along with making good use of the atmospheric moisture.”

ICICI Bank continues to implement initiatives towards sustainability under the aegis of its ESG policy. The Bank has set a target of becoming carbon neutral in Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by fiscal 2032. Over 180 sites of the Bank covering 4.95 million sq. ft. are Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) certified, as of March 31, 2024. The ICICI Service Centre at Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai was declared ‘Net Zero Waste’ certified in fiscal 2024. Further, the Bank quadrupled its renewable energy consumption to 75.73 million kWh in fiscal 2024, compared to the previous year. It also planted 3.7 million trees since fiscal 2022 and created a water harvesting potential of 25.8 billion liters annually in schools and water bodies.

Chandigarh, February 13, 2025: Ashok Leyland, the Indian flagship of the Hinduja Group and the country’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, delivered a successive Q3 record in line with its focus on profitable growth. Some of the key highlights are as below:

• Achieved an all-time high Q3 net profit of Rs.762 Cr, an increase of 31% over the same period last year
•  Reported all-time high Q3 EBITDA of Rs. 1211 Cr (12.8%) vis-à-vis Rs. 1114 Cr (12.0%) in Q3 FY24, registering double-digit percentage EBITDA for the 8th consecutive quarter
•  Recorded all-time high Q3 revenues of Rs. 9,479 Cr vis a vis Rs. 9,273 Cr in Q3 FY24
•  Achieved export volume of 4,151 units in Q3 FY25 against 3,128 units in the same period last year, registering a growth of 33%
•  Turned cash positive at end of the quarter with net cash of Rs. 958 Cr as against net debt of Rs. 1747 Cr at end of Q3’FY24

Ashok Leyland’s domestic MHCV market share continues to be over 30%. The Company also has maintained market leadership in the Bus segment. Ashok Leyland recently launched SAATHI, its foray into the entry-level LCV segment, opening up a new customer segment, which was previously unaddressed. At the recently held Bharat Mobility Global Expo, Ashok Leyland showcased the concept of an industry-first electric Port Terminal Tractor as well as India’s first 15-meter bus with a front engine and capacity of 42 sleeper births. At the show, Switch displayed a concept electric truck in the 7.5T GVW range, again a first in the segment. The Defence, Power Solutions, and Aftermarket Businesses continue to perform well.

Mr. Dheeraj Hinduja, Executive Chairman, of Ashok Leyland, said “The steady progress we are making in profitability is backed by products that deliver superior performance coupled with robust customer engagement. Sales in international markets are showing strong growth, and we expect this momentum to accelerate with the launch of new products. I compliment the management and our team for delivering a record-breaking Q3 for the second year in a row. We are also continuing to invest in battery electric and alternate fuel products to maintain our technology leadership position. Switch has a healthy order book and has plans to come out with a series of products in the next 12 months.”

Mr. Shenu Agarwal, Managing Director & CEO, Ashok Leyland, added, “Relative to Q2, the MHCV market has revived significantly in Q3, and is expected to improve further as we enter the last quarter. Our focus remains on profitable growth through product premiumization, cost leadership, better service reach, and enhanced value-added services. Non-CV businesses have done well and offer more headroom for growth. We remain optimistic about the growth of the CV industry in the medium and long term as macroeconomic factors continue to be favorable.”

Chandigarh, February 13, 2025 – Is accountability in public life fading? This pressing question took center stage as the Centre for Constitutional Values at BML Munjal University hosted an exclusive discussion celebrating the legacy of Professor Upendra Baxi, Professor Emeritus, University of Warwick and Former Vice Chancellor, of Delhi University and University of Surat. The event gathered top legal minds, activists, and scholars to reflect on the impact of Prof. Baxi’s ground-breaking work, including his pivotal role in rape law reform and corporate accountability in the aftermath of the Bhopal Gas Tragedy.

The discussion was anchored around Of Law and Life, a newly published book by Orient Blackswan that chronicles Prof. Baxi’s legal interventions over decades. Four thematic panels dissected critical issues such as judicial independence, media influence on justice, climate responsibility, and democratic suppression of activism. At a time when institutions face mounting scrutiny and legal frameworks are being tested by political and social shifts, the discussions resonated beyond academic circles. Speakers deliberated on the evolving role of courts in safeguarding civil liberties, the rise of strategic litigation to silence dissent, and the growing influence of media narratives in shaping judicial outcomes. Notable speakers included Prof. Sudhir Krishnaswamy, VC, NLSIU Bangalore, Prof. Rajeev Bhargava, Mr. Harsh Mander, and leading civil liberties lawyers.

Prof. Baxi’s keynote speech challenged the audience to rethink the role of lawyers, activists, and academics in upholding democratic values. His reflections ignited intense discussions on whether courts are increasingly shaped by public opinion and whether legal aid systems truly serve justice.

The event concluded with a compelling public lecture by Prof. Susan Marks, LSE Law School on ‘Dignity: A Worldly Perspective’, challenging conventional notions of human dignity through global legal frameworks and real-world case studies. Her thought-provoking insights sparked an engaging discussion, leaving the audience with deeper reflections on justice, rights, and the lived realities of dignity.