26, Mar 2025
Veteran musician Sri Ushakanth passes away

Hyderabad, 26th March 2025: Sri Ushakanth, a legendary musician and iconic figure in Hyderabad’s cultural landscape, passed away today at 12:40 pm. A multifaceted talent, he excelled as a lyricist, singer, composer, and music director.
Musical Legacy
Sri Ushakanth’s impressive repertoire includes:
– Musical ballets: Sri Datta Gadha, Kalyana Ramam, Geetha Govindam, Aandal Kalyanam, and Sapta Chala Sankeerthanam
– TTD projects: Palikedidi Bhagavatamata
– Acclaimed musical album: Chilaka Palukulu (Telugu Nursery Rhymes)
Awards and Recognition
Sri Ushakanth received numerous prestigious awards, including:
– Ghantasala Award (2003)
– National Awards for SIVA Ganga (Musical Ballet) and CHALO-DELHI (Children’s Film)
Sri Ushakanth is survived by:
– Son Dr. Sreekanth, a senior consultant at Apollo Hospitals and singer-composer;
– Daughter-in-law Dr. Suseela, a doctor and dancer;
– Son-in-law Mr. Sunder Lakshman, Vice President of Mahathi’s Music Academy;
– Daughter Smt. Radhika Lakshman, an accomplished singer;
– Granddaughter Ms. Rohini, IT consultant, dancer, and singer and
– Grandson Sreenigam, a budding doctor and singer.
The final rites of Sri Ushakanth will be performed at Mahaprasthanam, Jubilee Hills, on Wednesday, March 26, morning.
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25, Mar 2025
MAXHUB V5 Classic C55FA: Your Ultimate Collaboration Solution Just Became More Accessible
New Delhi, 25th March 2025 — MAXHUB, a global leader in interactive and collaborative technology, is thrilled to launch the MAXHUB V5 Classic C55FA, a next-generation 55-inch 4K ultra HD interactive display designed to redefine collaboration in corporate and educational settings. Offering seamless connectivity, an intuitive touch experience, and high-performance audiovisual capabilities, this innovative solution makes teamwork more efficient, engaging, and accessible than ever before.
The MAXHUB V5 Classic C55FA is engineered with 20-point infrared (IR) touch technology, allowing for precise, natural interactions. Featuring an ultra-fast response time of 6.5ms and ±1mm accuracy, users can collaborate effortlessly using fingers or a passive infrared pen—ideal for brainstorming sessions, presentations, and training modules.
Superior Visual and Audio Experience for Impactful Communication
Equipped with a 55-inch 4K ultra HD display, this interactive flat panel delivers unparalleled clarity with a contrast ratio of 4000:1, NTSC 90% color gamut, and DLED backlighting. The 178° wide viewing angle ensures visibility from all perspectives, making it perfect for both large and small meeting spaces.
The powerful 2.1 channel audio system includes dual 10W speakers and a 20W subwoofer, creating an immersive sound experience for video conferences, presentations, and interactive sessions.
Effortless Connectivity and Smart Collaboration Features
Designed to support a wide range of business applications, the MAXHUB V5 Classic C55FA features USB 3.0, USB Type-C, HDMI, and RS232 ports, providing seamless integration with multiple devices. It is fully compatible with Windows, Mac OS X, Chrome, and Linux, ensuring smooth operations across different platforms.
For enhanced video conferencing, this interactive display includes a built-in 12MP camera and six high-performance microphones with an 8-meter voice pickup range, delivering clear, uninterrupted communication in hybrid and remote work environments.
Built for Durability and Energy Efficiency
Crafted for long-lasting performance, the MAXHUB V5 Classic C55FA boasts an operational lifespan of 30,000+ hours. Its standby power consumption of less than 0.5W reinforces MAXHUB’s commitment to sustainable, energy-efficient technology solutions.
“The MAXHUB V5 Classic C55FA is more than just a display—it’s a game-changing collaboration hub designed to elevate teamwork and engagement across industries,” said Pankaj Jha, Managing Director, MAXHUB India. “Whether in a corporate boardroom, a higher education classroom, or a training facility, this solution is tailored to enhance productivity and interaction.”
25, Mar 2025
NeuralGarage Achieves Historic Success at the Globally Renowned SXSW Pitch Competition
Mumbai, March 25, 2025: GenAI startup NeuralGarage, has emerged as the first ever Indian startup to win the SXSW Pitch Competition at the globally renowned SXSW conference & festival. This annual event based in Austin (Texas) is one of the most definite and globally recognised events that celebrates the convergence of tech, film, music, education, and culture. From a global shortlist of thousands of startups, NeuralGarage won in the “Entertainment, Media, Sports & Content” category for their technology “VisualDub” which solves the problem of visual discord in dubbed content by syncing actors’ expressions & lip movements with the dubbed audio, to ensure an authentic and immersive viewing experience.
Running continuously for over 17 years, startups who have won this competition have raised over $23B in investments over the years. The jury comprised members from the venture capital, entertainment & content industry that makes the win even more significant since “VisualDub” is a tech solution built for the last mile of content localisation, a problem that the entertainment industry has been trying to solve for years.

An essential destination for creative professionals from the entertainment & content industry globally, the SXSW festival features film and television screenings, world-class exhibitions, & award ceremonies. Over the years it has become an immensely significant platform where the best of the entertainment & content industry gets showcased. This year some of the biggest names in Hollywood like Robert Downey Jr.,Matt Damon, Matthew McConaughey, Ben Affleck, Nicole Kidman, Nicolas Cage, Blake Lively, Paul Rudd, Jenna Ortega, Aaron Paul, Pedro Pascal, Kevin Bacon & many others came to showcase their latest work. The highlight of the event this year was a special fireside session by Michelle Obama and the screening of Michael Bay’s latest documentary “We are Storror”.
Speaking on the win, Mandar Natekar, NeuralGarage’s Co-Founder and CEO said, “The win is special because to win at SXSW means validation for our technology “VisualDub” that has been built for the global entertainment industry. To be able to pitch our tech on this influential platform in front of a global community of the brightest minds in the entertainment & content business was a thrilling experience and this is a stepping stone for us to bring this technology to the world shortly.”
Founded in 2021 by Mandar Natekar, Anjan Banerjee, Subhabrata Debnath & Subhashish Saha, NeuralGarage is building proprietary AI models specifically targeted to meet the exacting standards of the global entertainment industry and will change the way content is created, distributed and consumed across theatrical releases, streaming platforms and broadcast networks.
25, Mar 2025
Taste Italy at Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan with Handcrafted Signature Pizzas by Chef
Pune, 25 March 2025– Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan is elevating its culinary offerings with a delectable Italian twist, introducing the chef’s signature handcrafted pizzas. Expertly crafted using the finest, freshest ingredients, these pizzas are a perfect blend of authentic flavors, artisanal techniques, and a touch of culinary magic. Each bite delivers a symphony of mouthwatering toppings, a perfectly baked golden crust, and rich, gooey cheese, making it an irresistible treat for pizza lovers.
Whether guests choose to dine in and enjoy the warm, inviting ambiance of the hotel or order for a cozy evening at home, these handcrafted pizzas promise a burst of indulgent flavors. Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan is proud to be the only place in Chakan and Talegaon offering this one-of-a-kind Italian experience, making it the ultimate destination for those seeking an authentic and memorable dining adventure.

Beyond just a meal, these pizzas are a celebration of flavors, textures, and aromas that bring people together. The hotel’s chefs have meticulously designed the menu to cater to diverse palates, offering a variety of delicious toppings and combinations to satisfy every craving. From classic Margherita to gourmet specialties, each pizza is a testament to culinary excellence and passion.
Renowned for its world-class hospitality and commitment to culinary innovation, Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan continues to redefine the dining experience with creative and high-quality offerings. With a passion for excellence and a dedication to customer satisfaction, the hotel remains a favorite among food enthusiasts and travelers alike.
25, Mar 2025
Bill Gates Commends Indian Health-Tech Startup Sunfox, Gaining International Recognition
25th March 2025, India – At the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) headquarters, Sunfox Technologies was showcased as one of the five breakthrough healthcare technologies selected for its potential to transform global health. The event, which brought together some of India’s most impactful medical innovations, was further marked by the presence of renowned philanthropist and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates.
Spandan, a pioneering technology in cardiac monitoring, stood out for its ability to make hospital-grade cardiac care accessible and affordable. In a one-on-one conversation with Bill Gates, Spandan’s impact on reducing cardiac mortality worldwide was acknowledged and praised.
Reflecting on the experience, Rajat Jain, Founder of Sunfox Technologies, stated, “Being at ICMR HQ among India’s most promising healthcare innovations was an incredible honor. Hearing Bill Gates recognize Sunfox Technologies’s potential to change the world was both humbling and energizing. It reinforced our mission to make high-quality cardiac monitoring accessible to millions.”
Bill Gates, impressed by the innovation, emphasized the broader impact of India’s healthcare advancements, stating: “At Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), I saw how India’s homegrown innovations are saving lives. Fetal monitoring systems are helping mothers and newborns, real-time TB detection is catching cases sooner, and streamlined delivery systems are bringing medicine to remote communities faster. These breakthroughs aren’t just changing health outcomes in India—they have the power to change the world.”
Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death globally, and Sunfox Technologies is poised to address this challenge by placing life-saving technology into the hands of millions. With its innovative approach to affordable, real-time cardiac monitoring, Sunfox Technologies has the power to significantly reduce cardiac-related fatalities and improve healthcare accessibility worldwide.
25, Mar 2025
NMIMS Chandigarh Holds National Moot Court Competition, Fostering Legal Excellence
Chandigarh, March 25, 2025 – NMIMS Chandigarh, in collaboration with the Bar Council of Punjab and Haryana, successfully hosted the prestigious National Moot Court Competition on March 22-23, 2025. The two-day event saw participation from 28 teams across the country, with each team consisting of three members—two speakers and one researcher—providing a platform for aspiring legal professionals to demonstrate their advocacy skills and legal acumen.
The competition commenced with a grand inaugural ceremony, featuring a traditional lamp lighting ceremony. Dr. Rashmi Khurana Nagpal, Director of NMIMS Chandigarh, welcomed esteemed dignitaries, including Chief Guest Jagmohan Bansal and Guest of Honor Dr. Balram K. Gupta. In her address, Dr. Nagpal reflected on her personal journey as a law student, underscoring the value of early exposure to mooting. She also shared an inspiring anecdote about eminent lawyer Raj Bihari Ghosh, highlighting the role of quick thinking and legal acumen in advocacy.
Dr. Balram K. Gupta, a stalwart in legal education, shared insights from his tenure at Panjab University, where he pioneered the concept of a Moot Society. He emphasized the significance of mooting as a training ground for budding lawyers and recounted anecdotes about legal luminaries like Nani Palkhiwala and Tej Bahadur Sapru, encouraging students to pursue excellence.

Chief Guest Jagmohan Bansal addressed the gathering, elaborating on the three pillars of legal practice—client acquisition, thorough preparation, and courtroom performance. Drawing from personal experiences and select film excerpts, he illustrated key lessons in legal strategy and ethics. He emphasized the ABC rule—Availability, Behavior, and Competence—as essential qualities for a successful legal career.
The competition saw intense rounds of arguments, with the preliminary and quarterfinals held on March 22, where experienced advocates judged the proceedings. The semi-finals and finals took place on March 23, with teams presenting compelling arguments before a distinguished panel, including senior advocates and sitting judges.
The moot proposition was centered around Aryan, a 17-year-old minor who, despite being underage, was tried as an adult for a criminal offense. Aryan, aged 17 years and 305 days, was considered a child in conflict with the law under the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015. A Special Leave Petition (SLP) was filed in the Supreme Court under Article 136, highlighting the exceptional nature of the case and the grave miscarriage of justice in trying Aryan as an adult. The moot proposition sparked intense debates surrounding the legal principles of juvenile justice, emphasizing the importance of protecting minors in conflict with the law according to the established framework of the Juvenile Justice Act.
The closing ceremony was graced by legal luminaries, including Advocate Ankur Mittal (Additional Advocate General, Haryana), Hon’ble Justice Raj Shekhar Attri (Retd. Judge, Punjab and Haryana High Court), Hon’ble Justice Mahabir Singh Sandhu (Judge, Punjab and Haryana High Court), and Shri Pawanjit Singh (President, District Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission, U.T. Chandigarh). The dignitaries emphasized the importance of mooting as a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical legal experience.
Hon’ble Justice Raj Shekhar Attri lauded the competition, calling it a replica of real court proceedings that enhances students’ legal acumen. He appreciated the moot proposition’s focus on juvenile justice and cited recent case laws, including the Pune car crash case, to emphasize the evolving legal landscape regarding juvenile offenders. He reiterated that “bail is the norm, and its denial is an exception.”
Hon’ble Justice Mahabir Singh Sandhu advised students to balance legal tradition with innovation and not to rely solely on artificial intelligence, urging them to develop original legal arguments. He emphasized the growing importance of mediation in India and encouraged practical learning over theoretical study.
Dr. Balram K. Gupta compared the competition to Wimbledon, emphasizing that moots serve as a laboratory for future lawyers. He shared valuable litigation tips, highlighting the importance of client relationships, courtroom demeanor, and ethical practice.
The final round witnessed an exhilarating face-off between top teams. Symbiosis Law School, Pune secured the first prize, while Army Institute of Law, Mohali was the runner-up. The Best Researcher Award was presented to Panjab University for their outstanding research skills. The judges commended the participants’ research, drafting, and argumentative skills, affirming that the future of the legal profession is in capable hands.
The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks, the national anthem, and a group photograph, marking the end of a competitive and intellectually stimulating event. NMIMS Chandigarh’s successful hosting of the National Moot Court Competition reaffirms its commitment to fostering legal excellence and practical advocacy training for future legal professionals.
25, Mar 2025
LEGO Certified Store to Open in Ambience Mall, Gurugram – India’s First
Gurugram, 25th March 2025 – Ambience Mall, Gurugram, a landmark lifestyle commercial hub, announced that it has leased space to the brand LEGO. Slated to open in May 2025, the state-of-the-art store promises an immersive and interactive experience for LEGO enthusiasts of all ages.
Spanning over 4,500 square feet, it will be the first largest LEGO’s Certified store in India, redefining creative play and family entertainment in the region.
“We are thrilled to tie-up with Ample Group to bring India’s first Lego Certified store at Ambience Mall Gurugram. In a bid to reinforce our commitment to providing a platform for international brands to establish and grow in India. It also underscores our commitment to offering world-class experiences. LEGO’s timeless appeal aligns perfectly with our vision to transform shopping into a creative journey,” says Arjun Gehlot, Director, Ambience Malls.
“Bringing the very first LEGO certified store to Gurugam and the Delhi NCR in India marks a thrilling milestone in the LEGO Group’s history. We are excited to inspire both the young and young at heart, reinforcing our unwavering commitment to the children of India as we continue our mission to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow,” said Cedric Roose, LEGO Group’s General Manager of India .
The LEGO Certified Store will feature the brand’s largest collection of LEGO sets in India, including exclusive launches available for the first time in the country. Visitors can explore awe-inspiring 3D LEGO models, locally inspired installations, and iconic minifigures.
25, Mar 2025
BC Jindal Group’s JIRE Awarded 300 MW Solar-BESS Order by NHPC
Mumbai, March 25, 2025: BC Jindal Group, India’s leading conglomerate with over Rs. 18,000 crore turnover, has announced that its renewable energy arm, Jindal India Renewable Energy (JIRE) has received the Letter of Acceptance (LoA) for 300 MW solar plus storage project from state-owned, NHPC. The project is part of NHPC’s 1200 MW inter-state transmission system-connected solar power projects tender with 600 MW/1200 MW energy storage systems.
JIRE has bagged 300 MW of solar power capacity from NHPC at a tariff of Rs 3.09/kWh. As per the stated terms, the company will be executing a solar project on a build-own-operate basis. In addition, the green-field project will have to be completed within 24 months from signing of the power purchase agreement (PPA). Initially, JIRE had won 180 MW capacity of the Solar-BESS project from NHPC. As per the “Greenshoe Option” of the tender, the company was awarded an additional capacity of 120 MW, taking JIRE’s total project capacity to 300 MW.
Mr. Amit Kumar Mittal, CEO, Jindal India Renewable Energy, said, “Securing the LoA for 300 MW capacity after competitive bidding is testimony to JIRE’s ability and expertise to deliver substantial projects in the evolving renewable energy space. This project win is in line with BC Jindal group’s goal of supporting the nation’s target of installing 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.”
NHPC will enter into an agreement with JIRE for a period of 25 years. The Navratna Company will purchase solar power from JIRE and sell it to state utilities and others. As part of the contract, JIRE will have to deploy an ESS of at least 0.5 MW/ 1MWh capacity for 1 MW contracted capacity.
The BC Jindal Group had recently floated its dedicated entity, JIRE, to hold the renewable venture of the group. This company will oversee the renewable power generation, solar cells and module manufacturing businesses.
In 2025-2026, JIRE is looking to strategically expand its capacity portfolio by acquiring key operational assets within the country and across geographies. The company has sets sight on augmenting its presence and is actively pursuing aggressive acquisitions of operational assets both domestically and abroad. These acquisitions are anticipated to be finalised in 1-2 years and will be funded through a mix of internal accruals and debt.
Jindal India Renewable Energy operates under the BC Jindal Group, founded in 1952 by Shri B.C. Jindal. Originally a steel pipe and fittings manufacturer, the group has grown into one of India’s leading conglomerates with a significant presence in the power sector. JIRE’s initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to energy diversification. With a focus on environmental well-being at the core of its inception, BC Jindal Group’s commitment extends beyond compliance to a genuine dedication to preserving the environment for future generations.
25, Mar 2025
Fears Mount Over Corporate Governance and Minority Rights as Tata Sons Plans Deregistration
New Delhi, 25th March, 25: Tata Sons’ recent move to deregister as a Core Investment Company from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is drawing sharp criticism from governance experts and minority investors alike. Justice M.M. Kumar, founding president of the National Company Law Tribunal, has warned that this decision “is a retrograde step by the House of Tatas” that could undermine decades of progress in investor protection and regulatory oversight.
Justice Kumar explained that India’s corporate regime has evolved significantly over the years, with stringent laws ensuring transparency, accountability, and fairness. “Our regulatory framework has been developed with a focus on safeguarding the rights of investors. The move by Tata Sons to sidestep the RBI’s regulations, including the recently enacted Scale Based Regulatory (SBR) Framework, sets a dangerous precedent,” he said.
The SBR Framework was introduced in the wake of the 2018 IL&FS crisis—a financial debacle comparable to the Lehman Brothers collapse of 2008—that exposed critical vulnerabilities in India’s financial system. Designed as a multi-tiered system, the framework categorizes Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) by risk level and imposes progressively stricter compliance norms. “The SBR Framework is essential for preventing future financial misadventures and for protecting both investors and depositors,” Kumar emphasized.
A key aspect of the RBI’s mandate is encapsulated in its preamble, which states:
“The Reserve Bank of India having considered it necessary in the public interest and being satisfied that, for the purpose of enabling the Reserve Bank to regulate the financial system to the advantage of the country and to prevent the affairs of any Non-Banking Financial Company from being conducted in a manner detrimental to the interest of investors and depositors or in any manner prejudicial to the interest of such NBFCs.”
This clear articulation of investor protection underlines the RBI’s commitment to maintaining a stable financial system and safeguarding public trust.
Adding to the controversy are concerns over corporate governance and potential conflicts of interest. Justice Kumar pointed to an “unsettling overlap in directorship,” noting that a common director – Venu Srinivasan – serves both Tata Sons and RBI, raising serious questions about the impartiality of any regulatory decision. “Such conflicts not only compromise the decision-making process but also put minority shareholders at a significant disadvantage,” he asserted.
Minority investors, who hold a substantial stake in Tata Sons, have formally opposed the deregistration move. They argue that the decision appears to be driven by the interests of the majority shareholder, the Tata Trusts, which is keen to avoid the listing requirements that might force a mandatory exit for smaller stakeholders. “Deregistering from RBI supervision would strip away the crucial regulatory protections that minority investors depend on,” Kumar stated. “Without these safeguards, the balance of power would shift decisively in favor of the majority, leaving minority shareholders exposed and their rights undermined.”
The evolution of corporate governance in India—from the unregulated era before the Companies Act of 1913, through the implementation of the Companies Acts of 1956 and 2013, to the regulatory oversight provided by SEBI—has progressively fortified investor rights. These developments have not only ensured transparency and accountability but have also helped build trust among the country’s 1.2 crore public shareholders who invest in the Tata Group companies.
As regulators deliberate on Tata Sons’ request, the implications of granting this exemption could extend far beyond one corporate house. The decision holds the potential to reshape the standards of corporate governance and investor protection across the nation. Justice Kumar cautioned, “If the RBI allows Tata Sons to bypass these well-established safeguards, it could set a precedent that weakens our regulatory regime and diminishes the trust of investors, especially those who are already in the minority.”
The debate over Tata Sons’ deregistration is not just a corporate matter—it is a critical test of India’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting minority investors, and maintaining a level playing field in its financial ecosystem.
25, Mar 2025
Muthoot Exim Marks Expansion in Delhi NCR with Launch of 41st Gold Point Centre in Faridabad
Faridabad 25th March 2025: Muthoot Exim (P) Ltd., the precious metal arm of 138-year-old business conglomerate Muthoot Pappachan Group (also known as Muthoot Blue), proudly announces the grand opening of its newest Gold Point Centre in Haryana. The new Muthoot Gold Point Centre is strategically located on the 1st floor, Shop no. 5, 1-2 chowk, Above Utkarsh Finance Bank, Near Zevar Palace, NIT in Faridabad, Haryana 121001.
This branch opening marks the 41st Gold Point Centre in India and 2nd branch in Haryana, and 6th branch in Delhi NCR, marking another milestone in Muthoot Exim’s commitment to empowering citizens with instant access to liquidity and financial solutions, while maintaining our ethos of trust, transparency, and customer satisfaction.
With the new Muthoot Exim’s Gold Point Centre, customers in Faridabad will be able to sell their used and old gold, knowing they will receive fair and accurate valuations through a completely transparent process. The customer will have a first-hand view of the valuation, promising a seamless and reliable experience. For gold worth up to Rs 10,000, clients are paid in cash immediately, while larger amounts are handled effectively through IMPS, NEFT, or RTGS.

Keyur Shah, CEO of Muthoot Exim, expressed his enthusiasm about the new branch, saying, “Haryana is a historically rich and dynamic, hardworking state, and we are excited to be part of its development. Our Gold Point Centre in Faridabad will give residents an efficient, transparent means of realizing the value of their gold. By delivering precise and equitable valuations, we intend to empower customers with instant liquidity, providing an effortless and secure experience.”
Thomas Muthoot, Executive Director of Muthoot Pappachan Group & Managing Director of Muthoot Exim, added, “The opening of our 41st Gold Point Centre at Faridabad is a milestone in our pursuit of providing affordable and inclusive financial solutions to communities all over the country. It’s not about providing services; it’s about establishing long-term relationships with our customers. With a secure and transparent platform to monetize the value of gold, we are enabling locals to fulfill their financial requirements with confidence and trust.”
Muthoot Exim Pvt. Ltd. (MEPL) has been at the forefront of innovation in the precious metals market. As the first organized player to launch a gold recycling centre in India, MEPL has continuously set benchmarks in the industry. Since the opening of its first Gold Point Centre in Coimbatore in 2015, the company has expanded to major cities including Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, Hubballi, Napur, Barasat, Tirunelveli, Guntur, Warangal, Davangere, Bhubneshwar, Kalaburagi, Thrissur, Lucknow, Punjab, Vellore and now Faridabad, consistently offering high-quality products at affordable prices.