5, Apr 2025
Odisha Welcomes Nestlé India’s New Factory as CM Majhi Leads Groundbreaking Ceremony
Bengaluru, 05 April 2025: In an event graced by the Honorable Chief Minister of Odisha, Mr. Mohan Charan Majhi, Nestlé India laid the foundation stone for its upcoming factory in Khordha, Odisha. This is slated to be Nestlé India’s tenth factory and first in the eastern part of the country.
Talking at the event, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, Honorable Chief Minister of Odisha said that he was happy to see the progress made by Nestlé India in setting up a state-of-the-art facility, with cutting-edge technology in Khordha district. He conveyed his belief that this factory would enable Nestlé India to scale new heights and assured them of continued support in their endeavor.
Shri Suresh Narayanan, Chairman and Managing Director, Nestlé India, said, “With a steadfast adherence to ‘Make in India’ we had announced our tenth factory in Odisha, reaffirming the significance of India as a market. It gives me immense pleasure as we witness our planning and efforts bearing fruit. We are confident that this upcoming factory will not only help us with our business but will also stand tall as a vibrant example of gender diversity, sustainable manufacturing, paperless, digitally managed facility with an abiding focus on the environment.”
The factory is being set up with an initial investment of approximately INR 900 crores, in its first phase and is slated to manufacture products from its foods (prepared dishes and cooking aids) portfolio.
Nestlé India set up its first manufacturing facility at Moga (Punjab) in 1961 followed by its manufacturing facilities at Choladi (Tamil Nadu), in 1967; Nanjangud (Karnataka), in 1989; Samalkha (Haryana), in 1992; Ponda and Bicholim (Goa), in 1995 and 1997, respectively; Pantnagar (Uttarakhand), in 2006; Tahliwal (Himachal Pradesh), in 2012. Nestlé India set up its ninth manufacturing facility at Sanand (Gujarat) in 2021.
- 0
- By Team
5, Apr 2025
Mission Accepted: Tom Cruise Headlines CinemaCon with The Final Reckoning
Making a grand return to CinemaCon, Tom Cruise lit up the stage at Caesars Palace’s Colosseum which marked his first appearance post-pandemic. This time, he brought with him an exclusive first look at Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, the epic conclusion to the franchise that has redefined action cinema for nearly three decades, marking a thrilling moment for fans and industry insiders alike.
Directed by Christopher McQuarrie, Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning marks the epic conclusion to the franchise that began nearly three decades ago. The film picks up after Dead Reckoning, where Ethan Hunt faces a rogue AI known as The Entity.
On stage, Cruise praised McQuarrie, recalling how he had secretly brought him in to refine Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol without informing the team. “He’s the hero of that film and put Skydance on the map,” Cruise remarked. He continued, “Because of Christopher McQuarrie, we delivered Top Gun: Maverick and two Mission: Impossible films during pandemic shutdowns and strikes. You’re a modern-day Thalberg and an asset to every studio you serve.” Cruise then honoured McQuarrie with CinemaCon’s Director of the Year Award.
Reflecting on his journey, McQuarrie credited Cruise for believing in him when no one else would. “Tom, I’m here because of your vision and trust,” he said, adding that Cruise pushed him beyond his own limits. As he introduced the trailer, Cruise expressed gratitude to former Mission: Impossible producer Paula Wagner, ex-Paramount chief Sherry Lansing, and all directors who contributed to the franchise, including Brian De Palma, Brad Bird, J.J. Abrams, and John Woo.
The trailer of Mission Impossible 8 itself promises high-octane action, with Henry Czerny’s Kittridge ominously stating, “If we want to bring the world back to the brink, we have to deal with him.” It features Cruise performing jaw-dropping stunts, including crawling on a flying biplane and jumping off an aircraft carrier. Nuclear missiles are also in play, raising the stakes like never before.
5, Apr 2025
ZF Brings Lightning-Fast Connectivity to Software-Defined Vehicles with Fiber Optics
Friedrichshafen. At home or in the office, data networks with fiber optic connectivity are already widely used when high data transfer speeds are required. In the automotive sector, however, fiber optic technology is only just on the verge of a breakthrough.
The technology company ZF has further developed its ProAI high-performance computer for optical multi-gigabit Ethernet in automotive applications. Newly developed chips and connectors enable data to be transmitted via automotive-grade optical fibers according to the IEEE 802.3cz standard. “This ultra-fast transmission is a key technology for future vehicle electrical systems of software-defined vehicles,” explained Oliver Briemle, head of Cross-Domain Computing at ZF. The technology enables both short- and long-distance transmissions of up to 40 meters. Series production is possible as early as next year.
Optical multi-gigabit Ethernet offers considerable advantages for various vehicle classes. Intensive tests have confirmed the suitability of this technology for use in cars, trucks, buses and shuttles and have proven its robustness under various operating conditions. The results show that optical multi-gigabit Ethernet is a versatile and future-proof solution for data communication.
Basics of optical data transmission
Optical data transmission is a key technology used in many modern communication systems, including the automotive industry. It is based on the transmission of light signals through glass optical fiber (GOF) or plastic optical fiber (POF) cables. Fiber optic cables offer high bandwidth and low losses. The propagation of light in these fibers is based on the principle of total internal reflection. When light enters the fiber, it is reflected at the interfaces between the core and cladding of the fiber, causing it to remain trapped in the core and propagate along the fiber.
Optical data transmission in the automotive industry
High data transmission rates and reliability are advantages of optical data transmission systems in the automotive industry. Optical systems such as “Media Oriented Systems Transport”, or MOST for short, were introduced in the automotive sector around approximately 20 years ago. These older systems relied on polymer fibers as the physical layer for data transmission. In contrast, the new standards, such as the optical multi-gigabit Ethernet according to IEEE 802.3cz-2023, are based on glass fibers, which offer a higher bandwidth and lower losses.
ZF sees the following main advantages in the use of optical multi-gigabit Ethernet for the automotive industry:
1. High data transfer rates: The standard supports data transfer rates of 2.5 Gbit/s, 5 Gbit/s, 10 Gbit/s, 25 Gbit/s and 50 Gbit/s. These high speeds are crucial to cope with the growing volumes of data generated by modern applications such as autonomous driving (ADAS), infotainment (IVI) and networked services.
2. Increased transmission distance: The new standards enable a significantly greater transmission distance compared to older optical systems or copper-based data transmission systems used in automotive applications. Optical multi-gigabit Ethernet can transmit data over distances of up to 40 meters, which is suitable for both short- and long-distance applications in all types of vehicles.
3. Weight saving: Compared to copper cables, the use of fiber optics saves a significant amount of weight, which in turn helps to reduce fleet consumption.
4. Reliability and longevity: The use of optical fibers (OM3) in accordance with the IEEE 802.3cz-2023 standard improves the reliability and longevity of data transmission systems. Optical fibers are not susceptible to electromagnetic interference and offer stable data transmission even under extreme environmental conditions. Galvanically isolated data communication between different voltage levels can also be realized. They are also more resistant to wear, which enables long-term use.
5. Energy efficiency: Optical data transmission systems based on the IEEE 802.3cz-2023 standard are more energy efficient than conventional copper-based systems. They require less energy for data transmission, which leads to a reduction in overall energy consumption in the vehicle. This is particularly important for modern automobiles, where energy efficiency plays a critical role.
6. Scalable and future-proof: Optical multi-gigabit Ethernet is future-proof and scalable, as it is possible to upgrade new high-performance computers (HPCs), electronic control units (ECUs) and multi-domain computers (MDCs) to higher data transmission speeds without having to change the existing optical cabling components. This facilitates the integration of new technologies and functions in future vehicle generations and ensures the systems meet the increasing requirements.
7. Lower costs due to high production volumes: The OM3 optical fibers specified in the IEEE 802.3cz-2023 standard are widely used worldwide and are already being produced in large quantities. The current high production volumes of VCSELs (laser diodes) and photodiodes for use in the specified wavelengths are also very high. This leads to cost savings in production and makes the technology economically attractive for series use in the automotive industry.
8. Improved communication channels: Optical multi-gigabit Ethernet offers near-ideal communication channels with low physical layer complexity. This results in lower equalization complexity, no echo cancellation and therefore lower power consumption, lower latency and overall more cost-effective solutions. A specially dedicated operations, administration and maintenance (OAM) channel also ensures high reliability and efficient link management.
5, Apr 2025
ECU Worldwide appoints Sergio Rodrigues as Regional CEO to lead Latin America growth strategy
Mumbai, 5th April, 2025: ECU Worldwide, Allcargo Logistics’ wholly-owned global subsidiary and a leader in LCL consolidation, has appointed Sergio Rodrigues as Regional CEO for Latin America. In this role, Sergio will drive continued growth and strengthen customer relationships, further enhancing ECU Worldwide’s presence across the Latin American market.
A highly accomplished leader and a seasoned logistics professional, Sergio will engage with the ECU Worldwide leadership in Latin America to lead the next phase of growth by focussing on expanding into new markets, launching innovative products, and strategizing organic growth. Sergio will oversee the business in the region and collaborate with our partners on behalf of ECU Worldwide to drive our joint venture with Transmares Group. He will report to Ravi Jakhar, Director, Strategy, ECU Worldwide and will be based out of Santiago, Chile.
Sergio brings over three decades of leadership experience, having successfully led regional and multinational organizations across South America. A Doctorate (PhD) in Business Administration from University of CEMA, he has served as Regional director and MD in some of the key players in the LATAM market. During his past 20+ years, he played a key role in establishing and expanding the business across several South American countries, fostering significant growth and operational success.
Welcoming Sergio, Ravi Jakhar, Director – Strategy, ECU Worldwide said, “We are delighted to have Sergio in the Latin America leadership team of ECU Worldwide. He has a unique mix of strategic vision, hands-on market knowledge and deeper experience in the shipping and logistics industry especially in the South American region. That combined with his tech oriented mindset makes him ideally suited to lead ECU Worldwide to accelerate growth in this key region and continue delivering service excellence to our customers. I wish Sergio great success in his new role.”
Commenting on his appointment, Sergio Rodrigues, Regional CEO – Latin America, ECU Worldwide said, “I am excited to get the opportunity to come onboard and work alongside the ECU Worldwide leadership team in Latin America. A leading LCL consolidator backed by a rich legacy and technology-driven efficiency, ECU Worldwide is in a position of strength to further bolster its position in the Latin America region. In collaboration with the leadership team, I will continue to leverage the leadership of ECU Worldwide to optimize operational efficiency while maintaining a customer-first approach, setting up a path to long-term and sustainable business growth in this region.”
5, Apr 2025
The Good Bug Responds to India’s Growing Obesity Concerns with Groundbreaking Natural GLP-1 Therapy
Mumbai 5th April, 2025: India is at the cusp of a major health crisis as obesity rates surge across all age groups, driving an alarming rise in early mortality linked to diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. As per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), nearly 24% of women and 22.9% of men are now classified as obese.
The Good Bug, a pioneering gut health brand in India, has launched a path breaking scientific innovation poised to disrupt the weight loss landscape. The Good Bug’s Advanced Metabolic System is the latest advancement in natural GLP-1 science offering a sustainable & science-backed solution to weight loss. The breakthrough has been scientifically validated with clinical trial data showing a 12.01% reduction in weight, 9.64% decrease in waist circumference, and 12.14% reduction in BMI in 90 days.
Keshav Biyani, Co-founder of The Good Bug, stated, “Developed through cutting-edge gut microbiome research, the Advanced Metabolic System is a proprietary blend of clinically tested probiotics and prebiotics solving for obesity through Natural GLP-1 activation —without the adverse side effects commonly associated with weight-loss drugs. With the launch of this product, validated through scientific clinical trials, we are proud to offer a global first-of-its-kind innovative solution that delivers upto 12% weight loss in 90 days. As pioneers in gut health, we identified disbalance in gut biome composition to be the fundamental root cause behind obesity and put together years of R&D to build a solution that could eventually help increase GLP-1 and GIP naturally to deliver weight loss outcomes. This is a big scientific breakthrough for us which has been discovered, developed and made in India, and will redefine weight management globally.”
Unlike pharmaceutical GLP-1 agonists, which are commonly associated with side effects and dependency, The Good Bug’s Advanced Metabolic System naturally increases GLP-1 levels in the body, reduces chronic inflammation in the Gut, thereby regulating appetite and reducing cravings to deliver sustainable weight & health outcomes. Trusted by healthcare professionals, it offers a sustainable and natural approach to weight management. The Good Bug plans to take this product to the global markets including the US.
Dr. M.K.N. Manohar, Senior Consultant at Manipal Hospitals, and the trial’s principal investigator shared, “In the Clinical trials conducted, The results were not only statistically significant but also clinically meaningful. It is comparable to the best of the drugs what is available as of now,” he affirms. “What stood out was the self-reported drop in cravings and improved satiety. Over 90% said their cravings had reduced; 95% noted hunger suppression. This mirrors what’s seen with synthetic GLP-1 drugs,” he explains. “Importantly, no significant adverse events were reported. And the trials showed clear improvements in appetite, satiety, and energy levels.”
He further added, “Obesity has become a silent pandemic, accelerated by COVID. There is a wide gap between lifestyle changes and invasive treatments like surgery. Scientific evidence increasingly highlights the gut microbiome as a cornerstone of metabolic health and sustainable weight management. Unlike synthetic interventions that often come with unintended side effects, a well-researched probiotic formulation like The Good Bug leverages the natural synergy between gut bacteria and the body’s metabolism.”
Available at ₹2000 per month or ₹5000 for three months, The Good Bug’s solution is accessible via online platforms and retail stores. With its focus on research-driven efficacy and transparency, The Good Bug is redefining the role of gut health in overall well-being.
Prabhu Karthikeyan, Co-founder of The Good Bug, stated, “We recognize microbiome science’s impact not only on digestive health but also on metabolic health, women’s health, and cognitive well-being. As research into the microbiome deepens, it unfolds a new dimension of healthcare and we remain committed to leveraging its potential. We strive to continuously build consumer health solutions through advanced probiotic innovation, empowering individuals to take control of their health through science-driven products. We see a big opportunity in how our new launch can impact the obesity landscape in the country.”
Obesity has emerged as a major health concern, in lieu of which Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modiji recently launched an anti-obesity drive. According to data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), over 180 million Indians were classified as overweight or obese in 2021, and studies predict this number could surge to 400 million by 2050. This further highlights the urgent need for effective, clinically proven, and affordable solutions like The Good Bug.
5, Apr 2025
BUNKA SS’25 : New Launch
A celebration of renewal and the promise of a fresh season, Nava—Persian for “new” and “fresh”—embodies sun-drenched elegance and effortless sophistication. Inspired by the warmth of summer and the spirit of new beginnings, the collection blends breezy silhouettes with exquisite craftsmanship—broderie anglaise, delicate florals, airy linens, and ethereal organza.
The palette unfolds in sun-kissed neutrals—soft whites and warm beiges—delicately contrasted with floral hues of peach, pink, and lavender. Rooted in a philosophy of quiet luxury and timeless elegance, Bunka caters to women who seek refined simplicity, where craftsmanship and quality are at the forefront. Light, fluid, and inherently feminine, these pieces are designed for the modern woman who moves through life with grace, ease, and an adventurous spirit.
With Nava, we continue to evolve the Bunka woman, redefining our aesthetic while expanding to embrace our ever-growing community. This collection introduces a fresh perspective, offering versatile, effortlessly chic pieces perfect for the season ahead.
We invite you to experience Spring/Summer ‘25 with us. Below, we share some of our key signature pieces—crafted with intention and designed to bring you the same joy we felt in creating them.
1. Ann Shirt
Brighten your wardrobe with the Ann Shirt, a statement piece in butter yellow. Crafted from fine cotton poplin, its oversized fit features semi-sheer floral cutwork sleeves, blending sophistication with everyday comfort.
2. Manya Pants
The Manya Pants redefine functionality with high-waisted cargo styling, horn-buttoned pockets, and a flattering silhouette. These versatile white trousers are an excellent addition to a curated summer wardrobe.
3. Farida Kurta Set
Turn heads this summer with the Farida Kurta Set, a true extravaganza of Bunka’s craftsmanship. Available in serene blue and classic beige, it features delicate lace, bead embellishments, and intricate floral embroidery, making it ideal for festive moments.
4. Ambreen Kurta Set
Enhance your summer elegance with the Ambreen Kurta Set, a choga-style masterpiece crafted in elegant silk organza. Highlighted with lace details and paired with wide pants, it’s the ultimate expression of urbane ease.
5, Apr 2025
Adani Group Celebrates Sustainability Success at IAA Olive Crown Awards 2025
5 April 2025, Ahmedabad: The Adani Group, India’s largest and fastest-growing integrated infrastructure conglomerate, shines at the IAA Olive Crown Awards by winning 4 gold awards across different categories. The Group was honored with the award for the Corporate Social Crusader of the Year, the Green Advertiser of the Year and the Pankha film was crowned with two gold awards for being the best film in the categories TV/Cinema (Corporate) and Digital by the Olive Crown Awards, which solely recognizes and celebrates creative excellence in communicating Sustainability.
Established in 1938, the International Advertising Association (IAA) is the only global association that represents Marketers, Advertisers, Advertising agencies, and the Media. It comprises 56 Chapters with members from 76 countries, including the top 10 economies in the world, and is headquartered in New York.
Mr Pranav Adani, Director, Adani Group, said, “Our green initiatives demonstrate our businesses’ critical role in safeguarding the planet for future generations. The Corporate Social Crusader of the Year award is a testament to our unwavering commitment. It underscores the positive impact of the Adani Group’s dedication to clean energy in enhancing the quality of life for millions of Indians. Our commitment to renewable and sustainable energy is a cornerstone of our broader efforts. We are deeply honored.”
Mr Aman Kumar Singh, President & Head of Strategy and Chairman’s Office & Group Head – Corporate Brand Custodian, said, “Winning these awards is a moment of immense pride for the Adani Group. This recognition is a tribute to the hard work and unwavering spirit of all Adanians. This film goes beyond the scale, size and speed of the Adani Group, highlighting the profound impact the Group is creating in the lives of common people. The film not only celebrates the indomitable spirit of ‘Hum Karke Dikhate Hain’ (#AdaniHKKDH) of today’s India and Indians but also reflects Adani’s steadfast commitment to building a bright future for all.”
The award ceremony was held in Mumbai, with the Hon. Speaker of the Maharashtra Assembly, Shri Rahul Narwekar, as the guest of honour. Mr Ajay Kakar, Head – Corporate Branding, Adani Group, received the award on behalf of the Group celebrating this remarkable milestone.
5, Apr 2025
From Soil to Software: AgriTech Pavilion Showcases Cutting-Edge Agri Innovations at Startup Mahakumbh
New Delhi, April 5, 2025: Day 2 of Startup Mahakumbh saw the AgriTech Pavilion transform into a dynamic hub of agricultural innovation, bringing together policymakers, investors, and startups reimagining the future of farming in India. A key highlight of the day was the visit by Hon’ble Minister of Textiles, Government of India, Shri Giriraj Singh, who engaged with several pioneering agri-tech startups. During his visit, he extended his heartfelt gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Hon’ble Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, for spearheading this landmark initiative celebrating innovation and entrepreneurship.
The day began with a Welcome Address by Debasish Mishra, Chief General Manager, Delhi Circle, SBI, who highlighted SBI’s sustained support for the startup ecosystem. “We now have five such branches in five parts of the country – Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Gurgaon – which are supporting banking and financial services to startups. These five startup outlets have combinedly opened more than 3000+ startup accounts,” he noted.
The Opening Plenary, “Bridging Capital: How FIs & Funds Can Fuel Agritech & Rural Innovation?”, saw participation from Shashvat Rai, Partner, Aavishkaar Capital, CM Patil, CEO, Krishi Kalpa Foundation, and Debasish Mishra. Addressing early-stage founders, Debashish Mishra advised, “Come out with your idea, make it a product, and make it a commercially viable solution.” CM Patil urged founders to remain mission-driven, sharing, “Don’t build the model for investors, build it for yourself – you are there for the long run.”
The Pavilion was packed with engaging sessions including impromptu pitch competitions, founder journeys, and insights from leading investors. Alekh Sanghera, Co-Founder and CEO of Farmart, took the stage in “Trailblazing Tales – Agri-Innovations from Sector Disruptors”, while Sunil K Goyal, Managing Director and Fund Manager, YourNest Venture Capital, and Abhishek Mittal, Partner, Aavishkaar Capital, spotlighted emerging business models with funding potential. Meanwhile, in her investor pitch session, Anisha Singh, Founding Partner, She Capital, shared valuable advice: “Make sure you find that one credible model, find what it is that is a differentiator and ensure you’re able to scale or talk about it.”
A key highlight was the presentation on Krushak Odisha Unified Platform (KOUP) by Gaurav Goel, Founder & CEO, Samagra, and Anay Gogate, Program Lead, Samagra, illustrating how the Odisha Government is enabling startups to connect with farmers through digital public infrastructure. A session on global trends and their impact on agriculture followed, with Ambassador Gurjit Singh, Board Chair at Intellecap, speaking on “The Geopolitical Landscape and its Impact on Agriculture”.
Hemendra Mathur, Co-founder, ThinkAg and Venture Partner, Bharat Innovation Fund, took audiences through a knowledge-packed segment, followed by a talk on Open Network for Agriculture in UP by Dipika Prasad (Google) and Yuvraj Ahuja (IFC). Bharath Ganapathy, Sr. Program Manager, FIDE, rounded off the Pavilion sessions on Day 2 with a presentation on the Unified Krishi Interface.
In recognition of outstanding entrepreneurial efforts, Best Startup Pod Awards and Pitch Competition Winners were announced. The Aavishkaar Mahakumbh People’s Choice Award went to Pravidhaan FPC Pvt Ltd (Winner – ₹3L) and Himfla Pvt Ltd (Runner-Up – ₹2L). The Aavishkaar Kisan Kranti Award of ₹1L each was conferred on four startups: Isaayu Agritech Pvt Ltd, Prishigo Food and Beverages, Ascription Technology, and Dhalava.
In the high-stakes Aavishkaar Ultimate Agritech Pitch, Pravidhaan FPC emerged as the Winner (₹3L), with GramSe as the Runner-Up (₹2L). An Honourable Mention (₹1L) was awarded to BioFizz for its innovative approach.
The day concluded with a thought-provoking Masterclass on IPO readiness by Veenit Surana, Partner, EY India, followed by the main stage discussion “The Liquidity Continuum: The Flywheel Unlocked” featuring Rohit Batra (Evolvence), Ishpreet Singh Gandhi (Stride Ventures), Vineet Rai (Aavishkaar Group), and Arvind Ganeshan (Axis Capital Ltd.). During the conversation, Vineet Rai noted, “Venture as an ecosystem has yet to deliver on the promises that we have made and that’s actually a challenge we have to solve for India.”
Startup Mahakumbh’s AgriTech Pavilion continues to build momentum as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and investment in the sector, echoing India’s vision to empower its farmers and agri-entrepreneurs for a resilient future. With the stage now set, Day 3 promises even more action — spotlighting cutting-edge technologies and new-age business models that will shape the next era of agritech. Stay tuned as India’s agri-innovation story unfolds — bolder, bigger, and better.
5, Apr 2025
Ratna Pathak Shah Explores the Art of Storytelling with FLO Hyderabad Audience
Hyderabad, April 05, 2025: Renowned actor, theatre artist, and art enthusiast Ratna Pathak Shah addressed members of the FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) on Friday at ITC Kohenur, Madhapur, on the topic ‘Crafting Characters, Shaping Stories.’
In her opening remarks, Prathibha Kunda, Chairperson of the FLO Hyderabad chapter, emphasized the power of storytelling, stating that it transcends cultural and age barriers, fosters connection, empathy, and understanding, and shapes our perception of the world and our place within it.
“This year, FLO is embarking on a journey to bring the powerful story of Dokra Art from Adilabad to the forefront. It is a key initiative for us. We aim to revive the 4,000-year-old Dokra metal casting craft by supporting artisans through awareness, design intervention, and market linkages,” said Prathibha.
“We are not merely preserving this tradition; we are evolving it. By working closely with artisans from Ushegaon, Jamgaon, and Keslaguda, we are transforming Dokra from traditional temple idols to functional, contemporary designs that blend heritage with modern utility,” she added.
Prathibha expressed gratitude to the district administration, especially Sri Rajarshi Shah, I.A.S., District Collector & Magistrate, Adilabad District, and Smt. Khushboo Gupta, IAS, Project Officer, I.T.D.A., for their invaluable support in this initiative.
A complete collection of Dokra craft products was showcased during the session.
Ratna Pathak Shah unveiled a specially curated memento featuring Telangana’s ancient Dokra craft. Two artisans, Shri Bhujanga Rao and Smt. Girijha Bai, were invited to be part of the launch.
Following this, Ratna Pathak Shah engaged in a conversation with Prathibha Kunda.
“I am overwhelmed by my introduction today. Many awards were mentioned, but I don’t even remember them. I don’t like attending award functions because they create differences between people,” she remarked.
When asked about the impact of storytelling in her life, she shared, “I grew up in a family of storytellers, so the skill came naturally to me. I never wanted to be like my friends; I wanted to be different and special. Ironically, I hated the idea of being an actress, but I ended up becoming one. Acting gives you the rare opportunity to experience various professions without actually studying them.”
“I communicate well and express my thoughts clearly. This clarity has made me impactful,” she added.
Criticizing ineffective communication, she said, “Many people beat around the bush and fail to make a point. They make more noise than sense. Say what you want to say, but say it differently. That’s how you truly connect with people.”
Discussing the importance of scriptwriting, she stated, “A script makes a huge difference. It is the most crucial aspect of storytelling. Writing a good script is not easy; it takes time, effort, and energy.”
Speaking about the theatre group she co-founded with her husband, Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna highlighted the entrepreneurial challenges of theatre. “Unlike film, theatre is a challenging task. We decided to stay small but make a big impact. We have always preferred venues that don’t require extensive infrastructure support. Theatre is a great way to communicate new ideas. You can look into your audience’s eyes and perform—that’s the beauty of theatre. Human contact is always needed, wanted, preferred, and celebrated. Theatre will survive,” she affirmed.
Ratna also spoke about home businesses, emphasizing that handcrafted products hold more value than mechanized ones. “Artisans, craftsmen, and women pass on their skills from generation to generation, making their work invaluable.”
Addressing the theme of change in society, she referenced the film Thappad, which explores the impact of domestic violence. “Changing attitudes is the most difficult challenge,” she observed.
Recalling her journey with handloom fabrics, she said, “I grew up in a family full of women who loved sarees. My love for handlooms began when I developed an aversion to wearing nylon fabrics. The feel of nylon against my skin put me off, and that’s when my connection with handwoven fabrics started.”
She encouraged the audience to support handmade products over branded ones. “Handwoven fabrics combine functionality and beauty in a way that mechanized textiles cannot. I never buy branded products because they lack Indianness. Printed products are mere copies, while craftsmen struggle to survive.”
She stressed the importance of instilling a love for arts and crafts from a young age. “Children must be taught about arts and crafts in schools. That is how we integrate art into everyday life.”
In her closing remarks, Ratna Pathak Shah left the audience with a thought-provoking message: “Don’t pull the ladder up after you’ve reached the top.”
5, Apr 2025
Minister Riyas to Grace Inaugural Ceremony of EMAK Silent Heroes Awards 2025
Kochi, 05-April-2025: The seventh edition of The Silent Heroes Awards, organized by the Event Management Association – Kerala (EMAK), will be held on the 9th and 10th of April at The Leela Raviz Ashtamudi, Kollam. The event will be inaugurated by Minister for Public Works and Tourism P.A. Mohamed Riyas, with distinguished business and industry leaders. B. Ravi Pillai, Founder and Chairman of RP Group, will be honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award in this edition. This annual event featuring B2B expo, panel discussions and live performances, recognizes, and awards the sustainable efforts of event management agencies and professionals across Kerala.
The Silent Heroes Awards 2025 will feature Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals across 60 categories, categorized into five main award sections: Event Decor and Production, Technical Support & Solutions, Entertainment Design, Venue and Catering Solutions, and Personalized Solutions.
“Through this event we want to celebrate Kerala’s event management industry and bring industry leaders together to share their ideas and insights,” said Raju Kannampuzha, President, Event Management Association Kerala.
EMAK was established with the mission of uniting event management agencies in Kerala under a single platform. It is affiliated with the apex organization, the Event and Entertainment Management Association (EEMA).
Representatives from EMAK such as Raju Kannampuzha- President, Gincy Binny – Secretary, Bahanan K Areeckal – Treasurer, Jubin J John – Vice President and Joel John – Convenor attended the press conference held in Ernakulam press club.
