11, Feb 2025
IFMR and the Government of Meghalaya sign MOU to Enhance Data Systems, Foster Innovation and drive policy implementation
Sri City, February 11, 2025 – IFMR and Krea University hosted Synergy 2025, an annual flagship event designed to bring together leading academics, policymakers, and industry leaders to shape data-driven solutions for pressing developmental challenges. Through interdisciplinary dialogue, the event catalyzed action to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and strengthen governance mechanisms in India.
Speaking at the inaugural session, Krea University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nirmala Rao, noted that “Synergy is a unique platform for the academic community to engage, debate, and critically analyze some of the most pressing issues in development, focusing on solutions and action.”
A key highlight of the event was the inaugural N Vaghul Memorial Lecture, honouring the legacy of the late Shri Narayanan Vaghul. Delivering the inaugural lecture, Mr. S. Krishnan, Secretary, of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, highlighted the transformative impact of AI and the tectonic shifts in this space. He emphasized the role of foundational research and evidence in developing inclusive AI solutions rooted in the country’s linguistic and cultural diversity.
In line with the event’s focus on data-driven development, Synergy 2025 also marked a key milestone in strengthening government-academia collaboration. The Government of Meghalaya and IFMR signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance data systems, foster innovation, and drive efficient policy implementation. The agreement, signed by Dr Sampath Kumar, Principal Secretary and Development Commissioner, Government of Meghalaya and Mr Kapil Viswanathan, President, IFMR, builds on Meghalaya’s pioneering initiatives in data-driven governance and underscores the importance of evidence-based policymaking.
The event also featured a keynote lecture by Dr Karthik Muralidharan, Tata Chancellor’s Professor of Economics, UC San Diego and a panel discussion on enhancing state capacity including dignitaries: Dr Sampath Kumar, Government of Meghalaya; Ms Arti Ahuja, Former Secretary, Ministry of Labour & Employment; Dr Veena Srinivasan, Executive Director, WELL Labs, Dr. Karthik Muralidharan, and Ms Deepthi Reddy, Chief – Women Empowerment, Reliance Foundation.
Padma Shri Dr. Ashok Jhunjhunwala, Founder & Former President, of IIT Madras Research Park, delivered a special address that emphasized research and industry collaborations. Stressing the inherent risks involved in research, he underscored the need for mechanisms that encourage risk-taking, enabling breakthroughs that can redefine industries and improve lives.
A Unique Research Ecosystem Driving Change
The IFMR and Krea ecosystem is a hub for innovative thinking and action with a portfolio of eight interdisciplinary research centres: WELL Labs, LEAD at Krea University, JPAL South Asia, Centre for Digital Financial Inclusion (CDFI), Catalyst Atal Incubation Centre, Inclusion Economics India Centre, IWWAGE, and Sapien Labs Centre for the Human Brain and Mind, including partnerships with institutions such as Yale University, MIT, and policy entities such as NITI Aayog, Ministry of Rural Development, and the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, IFMR Graduate School of Business and the School of Interwoven Arts and Sciences.
The event featured an Ecosystem Showcase, where the research centres presented cutting-edge work across diverse themes, including financial inclusion, climate action, digital access, education, and public health. Faculty and students engaged with policymakers and thought leaders to explore solutions that can address India’s most pressing developmental challenges. The discussions set the stage for future collaborations, reinforcing the need for data-driven solutions and interdisciplinary approaches to tackle complex challenges.
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- By Sai Krishna
11, Feb 2025
VST Tillers Tractors Ltd reported 29% growth in Q3 Revenue
11 February 2025:
VST Tillers Tractors Limited (VST), India’s leading farm equipment manufacturer, today announced their financial results for the quarter and nine months ended Dec 31, 2024.
For the third Quarter, VST achieved a turnover of Rs 219.10 Cr, up of 29% from Rs 169.96 Cr in the Third quarter of last year. The operational EBITDA is 19.55 Cr, up of 104% from 9.54 Cr in the Third quarter of last year. The profit before taxes is Rs 3.84 Cr, down by 81% against Rs 20.33 Cr in the same period of the previous year in the Third quarter. The drop in profit before tax in Q3 is due to mark-to-market losses on investments of Rs 11.04 crores as against Rs 15.42 Cr profit in Q3 of last year.
On a year-to-date basis, the turnover is Rs 693.12 Cr, compared to Rs 694.61Cr for same period of last year. The PBT (profit before taxes) is Rs 89.32 Cr as compared to Rs 112.58 Cr of last year. PAT (Net profit) stood at Rs 69.49 Cr as against Rs 86.39 Cr last year.
4, Feb 2025
For the love of Math, Epsilon India Camp this summer
04, February 2025,Chennai: The journey from being a deeply enthusiastic Math learner to an extraordinary Math genius is just a camp away. This summer, Epsilon India Camp returns with an intense, fun and immersive summer programme for students aged 9 to 13.
Organised by the Raising A Mathematician (RAM) Foundation, Epsilon India is a residential summer camp that empowers mathematically gifted students by combining advanced mathematics education with personal and social development. Epsilon India draws inspiration from the highly regarded Epsilon Camp, founded in the USA in 2011 by veteran research mathematician Dr George R Thomas, founder of Epsilon USA, MathPath and MathCamp.
This year the camp is hosted at the lush green 40-acre campus of Krea University, a leading Liberal Arts and Sciences college situated in Sri City, 70 km from Chennai. Away from the hustle and bustle of a metropolitan, this self-sustained campus boasts of neighbours such as Sriharikota, Kalahasti, Tada and Pulicat.
Cost of accommodation is sponsored by Krea University. For details on other costs, please write to epsiloncampindia@gmail.com. This year the camp is slated from 29 April to 12 May 2025, and the last date for submission of online application is February 10, 2025. To learn more about the application process, visit www.epsilonindia.org.
The camp offers a rigorous curriculum covering a wide array of topics, including Methods of Proofs, Combinatorics, Geometry, Group Theory, and Number Theory. Students are selected on the basis of their performance in the qualification test, a letter of recommendation and an interview. Around 40-50 students are selected from all over India and overseas, out of hundreds of applications. Children spend two screen-free weeks, attending undergraduate-level courses each day, immersing themselves in their passion for the subject. Many participants of the Epsilon India camp perform exceptionally well in Mathematics, Computer Science and Science Olympiads apart from other prestigious competitions at the international level. The camp also offers children and their parents the opportunity to connect with like-minded families, sharing opportunities and perspectives.
The students will be taught primarily by professional Mathematicians, Scientists, Computer Scientists and Statisticians from both academia and industry. Participants will also have Teaching Assistants to help with homework and other academic queries. Counsellors will take care of the students’ socio-emotional needs. Past and current faculty and speakers include Dr S Muralidharan, former Chief Examination Coordinator for India’s official Mathematical Olympiads; Professor Manjul Bhargava, Princeton University, Fields Medalist and Padma Bhushan awardee; Professor Rajeeva L Karandikar, Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Awardee and former director of Chennai Mathematical Institute, Professor Rajiv Gandhi, founder of the PACT, Professor at Rutgers University-Camden, Professor K V Subrahmanyam, Dean of Studies, Chennai Mathematical Institute and more.
4, Feb 2025
Gopal Vittal appointed as Acting Chair of the GSMA Board
Bangalore, February 3, 2025: Gopal Vittal, Vice Chairman & MD, Bharti Airtel and Deputy Chair GSMA has been appointed as the Acting Chair of the GSMA board following the resignation of José Maria Álvares-Pallete, Chairman & CEO, Telefónica from the company. By virtue of this resignation, he is no longer able to continue in the position of the Chair of the GSMA.
Gopal was recently re-elected as the Deputy Chair of the GSMA board. He has also served the board as a key member for the term 2019-2020.
GSMA represents the global telecommunications industry with over 1100 companies from the telecom ecosystem across the world including telecom service providers, handset and device makers, software companies, equipment providers and internet companies, as well as organizations in adjacent industry sectors.
3, Feb 2025
Unaudited standalone & consolidated financial results for the nine months ended December 31, 2024
Sundaram Finance logs highest-ever 9M disbursements of Rs. 21,532 crores; AUM grows 19% to Rs. 50,199 crores
Net profit for 9MFY25 up by 5% at Rs. 997 crores
Profits from Operations up by 22% in 9MFY25
Continued improvement in asset quality with Gross Stage 3 assets at 1.70% (1.77% as of December 31, 2023) and Net Stage 3 assets at 0.97% (1.02% as of December 31, 2023)
ROA at 2.49% for 9MFY25 (2.79% for 9MFY24)
Capital Adequacy Ratio at 20.0% (20.0% for 9MFY24)
140% interim dividend (Rs. 14/- per share) declared
The Board of Directors of Sundaram Finance Ltd. (SFL) approved the unaudited standalone and consolidated financial results for the nine months ended Dec 31, 2024, at its meeting held on Feb 03, 2025, in Chennai.
“Economic activity in the festival season that marks Q3 has been below expectations. Team Sundaram has delivered a terrific Q3 with 19% growth in AUM to Rs. 50,199 crores, improving asset quality with net stage 3 at 0.97% vs 1.02% last year and profits from operations growing 22% year-on-year. Our Group companies in asset management, general insurance and home finance have continued their trajectory from FY24 and recorded strong results. We continue to rely on our time-tested approach of steady and sustainable growth with best-in-class asset quality and consistent profitability,” said Harsha Viji, Executive Vice Chairman.
Disbursements for 9MFY25 recorded a growth of 8% over 9MFY24 with 19% growth in disbursements for Q3FY25 over last year. Gross stage 3 assets improved over the previous year. Gross stage 3 assets as of December 31, 2024, stood at 1.70% with a provision cover of 43% as against 1.77% as of December 31, 2023, with a provision cover of 43%. Core operations performed strongly with profit from operations up by 22% in 9MFY25. Profits after tax at Rs. 997 crores registered an increase of 5% in 9MFY25 as against Rs. 948 crores in 9MFY24, primarily due to a shift in the timing of dividends in the prior period (Rs. 43 crores in 9MFY25 vs Rs. 181 crores in 9MFY24). Return on assets closed at 2.49% in 9MFY25 as against 2.79% for 9MFY24 and capital adequacy at 20.0% remains quite comfortable.
“It has been a strong quarter for the company despite a relatively muted Q3 for the industry. We have gained market share across nearly all asset classes that we focus on, resulting in 19% growth in disbursements for the quarter YOY and 19% AUM growth. Our asset quality continues to improve, even as the collections environment for the sector tightens. Operating profits (excluding dividends and one-time gains) have grown strongly by 22%. Looking ahead, we are well positioned to continue our marathon running – steady growth, best-in-class asset quality and continued resilient profitability – and in delivering the Sundaram experience to our customers, people and partners,” said Rajiv Lochan, Managing Director.
STANDALONE PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS FOR 9MFY25
• Disbursements for Q3FY25 grew by 19% to Rs. 7,764 crores as compared to Rs. 6,524 crores registered in Q3FY24. Disbursements for 9MFY25 grew by 8% to Rs. 21,532 crores as compared to Rs. 19,954 crores registered in 9MFY24.
• The assets under management grew by 19% to Rs. 50,199 crores as on 31st December 2024 as against Rs. 42,172 crores as on 31st December 2023.
• Net interest income grew 21.4% to Rs. 2,040 crores in 9MFY25 from Rs. 1,681 crores in 9MFY24.
• Gross stage 3 as on 31st December 2024 stood at 1.70% with 43% provision cover as against 1.77% with provision cover of 43% as on 31st December 2023. Net stage 3 as on 31st December 2024 closed at 0.97% as against 1.02% as on 31st December 2023.
• The Gross and Net NPA, as per RBI’s asset classification norms for NBFCs, are 2.46% and 1.62% respectively as against 2.61% and 1.82% as of 31st December 2023.
• Profit from operations increased by 22% in 9MFY25 as compared to 9MFY24.
• Cost to income ratio closed at 31.37% in 9MFY25 as against 35.12% in 9MFY24.
• Profit after tax registered a 5% rise in 9MFY25, with net profit at Rs. 997 crores. The company had registered a net profit of Rs. 948 crores in 9MFY24.
• Return on assets (ROA) for 9MFY25 closed at 2.49% as against 2.79% for 9MFY24. Return on equity (ROE) was at 14.3% for 9MFY25 as against 15.5% for 9MFY24.
• Capital Adequacy Ratio stood at 20.0% (Tier I –16.6%) as of 31st December 2024 compared to 20.0% (Tier I – 16.0%) as of 31st December 2023.
• The Company has declared an interim dividend of Rs. 14/- per share (140%).
CONSOLIDATED PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS FOR 9MFY25
The consolidated results of SFL include the results of its standalone subsidiaries Sundaram Home Finance, Sundaram Asset Management and joint venture company Royal Sundaram General Insurance.
• The assets under management (AUM) in our lending and general insurance businesses stood at Rs. 75,708 crores as on 31st December 2024 as against Rs. 63,658 crores as on 31st December 2023, a growth of 19%. The assets under management of our asset management business stood at Rs. 76,038 crores as on 31st December 2024 as against Rs. 67,272 crores as on 31st December 2023, a growth of 13%.
• Profit after tax for 9MFY25 grew by 14% to Rs. 1,326 crores as compared to Rs. 1,168 crores in 9MFY24.
GROUP COMPANY PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS
Our group companies continued to perform well.
• The asset management business closed the nine months ended 31st December 2024 with assets under management of Rs. 76,038 crores (over 80% in equity) and consolidated profits from the asset management businesses was at Rs. 107 crores as against Rs. 74 crores in 9MFY24.
• Royal Sundaram reported a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of Rs. 2,965 crores as compared to Rs. 2,792 crores in the corresponding period of the previous year, representing a growth of 6%. The Company reported a profit after tax of Rs. 134 crores for 9MFY25 as against a profit of Rs. 178 crores in 9MFY24.
• Sundaram Home Finance continued to grow strongly with disbursements up by 29% to Rs. 4,588 crores in 9MFY25. The profit for 9MFY25 was Rs. 173 crores, as against Rs. 179 crores in 9MFY24.
3, Feb 2025
2025 Camlin Art Teacher Excellence Awards presented at IADEA’s Annual Art Educators Conference
February 03, 2025, Chennai: The Indian Art and Design Educators Association (IADEA) held its Sixth Annual Art Educators Conference at Kalakshetra Auditorium Hall on 31st January and 1st February 2025 here in Chennai. The conference had over 80 art educators from Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Erode, Ranipet, Jaipur, Delhi, Ajmer, and Bengaluru, attending the two-day event. Several global and national experts came together to discuss current and future narratives encompassing art education for and alongside 100 school art teachers. The two days were punctuated with a number of interactive sessions and workshops anchored on diverse topics. In her keynote speech Dr. Jyotsna Tiwari, HOD, Art and Aesthetics of NCERT, Delhi, highlighted the integration of art in education: the vision of NEP 2020 and the way forward.
Sara Vetteth, Founder of IADEA said, “In the future, every career will demand visually literate professionals—those who can research, think critically and communicate fluently using images and words. No matter the medium – whether it be mark-making with pencil, working with fiber, manipulating clay or image capture with a camera phone, the theme for this year’s conference is – how do we rethink the art class to make it useful for every learner? By guiding students through lines of enquiry and the design cycle, art educators can foster deeper exploration and creative problem-solving.”
On Day one, there was a delightful session on decoding the vocabulary of Warli, by renowned Warli artist & educator, Mayur Vayeda, followed by Dr. Alka Hingorani, one of the founders of “Learn Through Stories Foundation” and art educator Nivedita Deshmukh explored freedom and learning in art education. Italian Book designer and visual artist, Valentina Abenavoli took the participants through a fascinating session on exploring art through bookmaking. Melissa Nolas, founder, Children Photography Archive, London, and Gayatri Nair, founding trustee, of Chennai Photo Biennale hosted the session on discovering photography’s place in an art class. The session highlighted the use of photography as a medium to encourage students of varying abilities to develop their language, vocabulary, and storytelling skills.
The inaugural day concluded with the awarding of the 2025 Camlin Art Teacher Excellence Awards to ten art educators. Awarded across five categories, the accolade celebrates the impact of art lessons and its significance in a student’s learning journey.
Mr. Satish Veerappa, Managing Director, Kokuyo Camlin Ltd said “The Art Teacher plays a very important role in the growth of a child. In this way, art teachers contribute immensely to the creative force of a nation. The values of inventiveness, creativity and passion that The Camlin Art Teacher Excellence Award celebrates are the same values that are necessary to build the start-ups and enterprises of the future. Behind every child who grows up to be innovative, resourceful, process oriented, collaborative and confident is an art teacher who showed them the way. Camlin admires and respects your contribution to art and the nurturing of artistic talent.”
Day two of the conference began with a speaker session by Lina Vincent, Curator and Educator from Goa, who spoke about her collaborative exhibition which uses plants in various ways to investigate pressing global issues. Siddhi Gupta, Faculty member at Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology, led the participants through an interactive workshop using visual thinking to reflect on what it means for an artist to be an educator. Chennai-based photographer Mr. Sunder Ramu led teachers through a guided workshop on using phone photography in the classroom as a medium to express thoughts, moods, and unique perspectives. After lunch, the participants were taken on a special curator-led tour of selected Chennai photo biennale photography exhibits at Lalit Kala Academy and Egmore Museum. The tour was led by Gayatri Nair, Co-founder and Director of Education at CPB pris,m and Varun Gupta, Biennale Director at CPB.
List of Award winners
· Best use of Elements of Art
Winner– Deepti Karthik, Sarvam The Organic School, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
Runner-up- Vijayaraghavan Srinivasan, KC High School Chennai
· Collaboration in the Art Room
Winner– Dinesh Kumar, Balsam Academy, Ranipet,
Runner up– R Subramanian and Aishwarya C, AMM School, Chennai
· Innovation in the Art Room
Winner– Vijayaraghavan Srinivasan, KC High School Chennai
Runner up Prem Nazir, Lakshmi School, Madurai
· Instilling Creative Confidence
Winner– Arun Kumar, Chettinad Sarvalokaa Education International School, Chennai
Runner-up Gayathri Vasu, Independent Art Educator, Chennai
· Promoting Artistic Practice
Winner– Amrutha Anand, Independent Art Educator, Chennai
Runner up -Vimal Sivaraman, Rak’s Pallikkoodam School of Excellence, Coimbatore
1, Feb 2025
Press Play on Nostalgia: PUMA’s Palermo Pop-Up Revives 60s Music & Sneaker Heritage at the Indian Sneaker Festival
February 1, 2025: Where sneaker culture meets vintage beats, sports brand PUMA India turned up the retro vibe at the Indian Sneaker Festival ongoing at the Backyard Sports Ground, Gurugram. Bringing back the magic of 60s music and classic terrace style, the brand spotlighted its iconic Palermo sneaker with a pop-up that felt straight out of a golden-era record store.
PUMA has pulled out all the stops to give sneakerheads an immersive experience like never before. Picture terrace culture drenched in retro beats, vintage cool with a bold and modern edge.
Inspired by the original soundtrack created for the Palermo digital Film released in 2024 featuring Ibrahim Ali Khan Pataudi and Ayesha Kanga among others, the pop-up reimagines the vibe of the 60s music record store but with a PUMA spin. Imagine a walk through rows of vinyl records, CD showcases, a record-style sneaker display, and a listening station pumping curated tracks, this aesthetic, Instagrammable pop-up is the ultimate celebration of the power of music—a timeless classic—much like the Palermo sneaker itself.
PUMA chose the 4th edition of the Indian Sneaker Festival to offer a fun, multi-sensorial experience for sneakerheads to get a first-hand feel and vibe of the iconic Palermo sneaker. In addition, the pop-up features a customization station where shoppers can accessorize their new Palermos with charms and create a memorable PUMA experience.
The Palermo sneaker, with its signature mix of bold colorways and undeniable retro charm, is perfect for those who love to blend vintage style with new-age spirit. It is all about fun, friendships, and that effortlessly cool ’60s energy. The Palermo comes in a range of vibrant colorways, from bold and electric to classic and understated, offering something for every style. Each shade is a nod to retro charm, reimagined for the modern-day sneaker lover.
What’s Happening at the Pop-Up?
· Shop the Goods: Exclusive Palermo sneakers and premium Prime Select apparel are up for grabs.
· Customisation Station: Bought some PUMA heat? Make it yours with a customization set-up only for pop-up shoppers.
· 500 Giveaways: Join the buzz for a chance to win from our 500-product giveaways, inspired by the retro record store vibe.
· Special Appearance: Actor and trendsetter Ayesha Kanga is set to make an appearance at the PUMA Palermo pop-up on February 1st, bringing her unique flair to the mix.
The Palermo is calling—are you ready to create some Instagrammable moments? Bring your crew, grab some kicks, and soak up the vibes at the Palermo pop-up, set up till Feb 2.
1, Feb 2025
Shreyas Webmedia Solutions Celebrates Three Years of Innovation and Growth
In an industry where rapid advancements and fierce competition define the landscape, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions has firmly established itself as a leading player. This February, the company marks a significant milestone—celebrating three years since its inception. Over the past three years, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions has made notable strides in providing innovative digital marketing services, web development, and creative solutions to businesses across the globe.
A Vision Brought to Life
Founded with a vision to help businesses enhance their online presence, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions has grown to be a trusted partner for companies seeking professional and customized digital marketing strategies. The company’s approach combines creativity, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of the evolving digital landscape.
In just three years, the company has built a solid reputation for delivering tailored solutions to clients, ensuring they not only meet but exceed their digital goals. From SEO and social media marketing to website development and branding, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to elevate brands and drive business growth.
Key Milestones and Achievements
The company’s journey has been marked by several key milestones:
Expanding Client Base: Shreyas Webmedia Solutions has successfully built a diverse portfolio of clients spanning across various industries, including retail, technology, education, healthcare, and more. Their client-centric approach and focus on results have played a significant role in fostering long-lasting relationships.
Innovative Solutions: From search engine optimization (SEO) that ensures high search rankings to mobile-responsive website designs, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions has continuously integrated the latest trends and technologies into its services. Their ability to adapt to the fast-paced nature of the digital marketing world has allowed them to stay ahead of the curve.
A Growing Team of Experts: The growth of the company can be attributed to its talented and dedicated team of professionals who bring diverse expertise to the table. Their passion for delivering exceptional service has been instrumental in Shreyas Webmedia Solutions’ success.
Awards and Recognition: The company has also earned accolades for its exceptional work, including recognition from various industry bodies. These achievements reflect the commitment and dedication of the Shreyas Webmedia Solutions team to providing top-quality service to clients.
Looking to the Future
As Shreyas Webmedia Solutions celebrates this impressive achievement, the company remains focused on continuous improvement and growth. They are committed to staying at the forefront of emerging technologies and trends to deliver cutting-edge solutions to their clients.
“We are extremely proud of what we have achieved over the past three years, but this is just the beginning. We are constantly evolving and adapting to meet the needs of our clients. The digital world is always changing, and we are excited to help businesses navigate that change and emerge stronger than ever,” said Mr. Neel Achary, CEO and the visionary behind Shreyas Webmedia Solutions.
As Shreyas Webmedia Solutions celebrates its third anniversary, it is clear that the company’s innovative approach, commitment to excellence, and focus on client satisfaction have contributed to its growth and success. With a bright future ahead, Shreyas Webmedia Solutions is poised to continue transforming digital marketing and web development for years to come.
29, Jan 2025
Nykaa makes its OTT debut with ‘Nykaa Wali Shaadi’ in partnership with Jio Cinema and Tiger Telly
Produced by Tiger Telly – Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti’s advertisement vertical that tells stories across shorter formats, Nykaa Wali Shaadi is a celebration of beauty, love, and the deep connection between the couple. Premiering on Jio Cinema on 31st January, the series features four real brides as Nykaa gives them the bridal beauty look of their dreams, documented against the backdrop of their wedding.
Mumbai, 29 January 2024: In every Indian wedding, the bride’s beauty is not just an element, it’s the centerpiece of the celebration. While once the bride’s outfit was the focal point of her transformation, today, makeup has evolved into a defining element of her bridal journey. Her look is a culmination of dreams, traditions, and meticulous planning, immortalized in photographs and videos that become cherished memories for a lifetime. For a bride, choosing the right makeup artist is akin to selecting the perfect lehenga, it’s about trust, vision, and crafting a look that captures her essence. Nykaa, as a trusted beauty partner, understands the importance of this moment, offering brides expert guidance, personalized recommendations, and a world of beauty solutions to ensure every detail – every flick of eyeliner, every sweep of highlighter – is perfect for her big day.
Nykaa Wali Shaadi follows the journeys of four real brides as they explore beauty in its many forms. From the significance of kajal for nazar to curating the perfect bridal look through moodboarding, to working with makeup artists who understand the bride’s vision for their special day – each bride experiences a transformation. The moment they reveal their bridal look, with their loved ones by their side, is a moment filled with overwhelming emotion and pure joy. This is bridal beauty: shared, powerful, and dedicated entirely to her. The bride is the main character of her story, and Nykaa is her ally, guiding her to find her own version of beauty.
MEET THE BRIDES:
Jagriti Rajulu: The Triumph of Resilience
Jagriti’s wedding is a celebration not just of love but of survival. Diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after her engagement, she faced months of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, but through it all, she never gave up on her dream of a vibrant wedding. Her story is one of recovery, of transformation, and of the profound beauty that comes from within.
Seema Priyanka Gowdar: Beauty in Strength
Seema has dedicated her life to serving her country, from the Indo-China border to UN peacekeeping missions in Sudan. A decorated army officer, she’s always put others first. Her wedding is not just a celebration of love—it’s a moment for Seema to step into her own beauty, to recognize her worth, and to allow herself to be celebrated.
Maiti Shahani Kapoor: A Love That Embraces All
Maiti’s wedding is a beautiful blend of cultures, celebrating her Nepali-Sindhi heritage and her partner Mushad’s Parsi-Punjabi roots. As she prepares for her big day, Maiti’s journey is a testament to the beauty of embracing diversity and identity. Nykaa helped her find a look that beautifully mirrored her personal evolution—one that honors tradition and celebrates modernity, reminding us that beauty is unique to each individual.
Avantika Chhabria: A Love Manifested: Avantika and Divyam’s story is a testament to serendipity and the magic of manifesting love. They met in 7th grade and an unexpected twist sparked a friendship destined to blossom into a lifelong bond. Over 15 years, their love grew with them, evolving from puppy love to a partnership built on trust, laughter, and shared dreams. “We believe we manifested each other,” Avantika shares. “What started as a friendship became love, and even after all this time, it feels like the beginning.”
Falguni Nayar, Executive Chairperson, MD & CEO of Nykaa, shared, “Weddings are pivotal beauty moments, and at Nykaa, we understand how essential it is for brides to feel confident and radiant on their special day. We have always believed that beauty is personal—it’s about embracing your true self. We’re not just selling products; we’re here to guide, educate, and empower our customers to feel confident in who they are. Whether through our online platforms or in our stores across India, we connect with them on a deeper level, offering expert advice and personalized guidance to help them discover the beauty that’s uniquely theirs.”
Zoya Akhtar added “At Tiger Baby, we endeavour to tell stories that though diverse in format, are equally impactful. Through our collaboration with Nykaa, we got to highlight the glory of Indian weddings through powerful narratives that celebrate women and beauty both inner and outer.”
Reema Kagti said, “Partnering with Nykaa on this exciting project allows us to bring authentic narratives of strength and beauty to life. With Tiger Telly, we’re crafting powerful stories in both short and long formats, and we look forward to sharing these heartfelt, empowering journeys with the viewers.”
Talking about this Partnership, Vivek Mohan Sharma, Head – Branded Content & MTV Properties Revenue, JioStar says “We’re constantly challenging the status quo with boundary-pushing collaborations, and Nykaa Wali Shaadi is a perfect example of this approach. This isn’t just another beauty show; it’s a celebration of real brides and their personal stories, crafted with Nykaa’s ethos of personalized, inclusive beauty at its core. Through this partnership we’re driving an emotional connection with audiences creating a moment of real transformation. This collaboration delivers a powerful brand experience, amplifying Nykaa’s presence and impact, while offering our viewers content that resonates on a deeper, more meaningful level.”
Mark your calendar for the premiere of Nykaa Wali Shaadi at Jio Cinema, on 31st January, and see how Nykaa helps brides find their beautiful on their big day.
Here is what the brides have to say!
“My wedding day was a celebration of love, life, resilience, and strength. I loved how I looked and thoroughly enjoyed being part of the show. By staying true to my skin tone, hair length, makeup style, and heritage—while marrying the man of my dreams and being surrounded by the people who matter most—I felt truly radiant. I’ve learnt that beauty comes alive in the way you love yourself despite the changes, in the kindness you show others, and in the resilience that keeps you moving forward. My wedding look wasn’t just about appearance, it captured the strength and transformation I’ve embraced, making the celebrations truly memorable.” – Jagriti
“My journey with Nykaa during our wedding was about more than just beauty, it was about embracing courage, individuality, and elegance. As a woman guarding the nation, I’ve always believed in leading with strength and resilience. From boots to heels, this collaboration symbolized my transformation, showing how boldness and beauty coexist. Nykaa brought together incredible talent and creativity, making every moment unforgettable. The artistry wasn’t just about enhancing my look; it honored the story of a woman who balances grace with grit. I envisioned our wedding as a dream celebration, and with Nykaa’s touch, it truly became one. Thank you for making me feel stunning and elevating the entire experience, it was a true reflection of who I am: fearless, bold, and unapologetically me!” – Seema
“My three-day journey with the Nykaa team was unforgettable, thanks to their incredible support. They made everything smooth and so much fun. Nykaa helped me embrace my individuality and reminded me that beauty isn’t just about how we look—it’s about feeling confident and strong. When we feel confident, we truly shine.” – Maiti
“Working with the Nykaa Wali Shaadi team felt like a perfect extension of our journey. From the start, it was about celebrating the love Divyam and I have nurtured over 15 years. The process was seamless, joyful, and unforgettable, just like our story. It was a beautiful manifestation of everything we dreamed of.” – Avantika
28, Jan 2025
AIOS Seeks Tax Exemption on Sight-Saving Equipment
Hyderabad, January 28, 2025: The All-India Ophthalmological Society (AIOS), the largest professional organization of ophthalmologists in the World just petitioned the Honourable Finance Minister to Exempt Customs Duty and GST on Sight-Saving Ophthalmic Equipment in the Budget 2025-26.
Dr. Samar K Basak, President;Dr. Santosh G Honavar, Honorary Secretary; Dr Manoj C Mathur, Treasurer petitioned to the Honourable Union Finance Minister Ms Nirmala Seetharaman and a copy of the same was shared to Shri Narendra Modi Ji, Honourable Prime Minister of India; Shri JP Nadda Ji, Honourable Minister of Health and Family Welfare; Shri Pankaj Chaudhary Ji, Honorable MOS, Finance; Shri PK Mishra Ji, Principal Secretary to PM and Shri M Nagaraju Ji, Finance Secretary, GOI
We have petitioned on behalf of AIOS Office-bearers Dr Partha Biswas, President-Elect; Prof. Jeevan S Titiyal, Vice President; Dr. Harbansh Lal, Immediate Past President; Prof. Namrata Sharma, Chair, Scientific Committee; Dr. Prashant K Bawankule, Chair, Academic and Research Committee; Prof. M Vanathi, Editor, Indian Journal of Ophthalmology; Dr Krishna Prasad Kudlu, Editor, Proceedings; Dr. CV Gopala Raju, Joint Secretary; Dr. P Elankumaran, Joint Treasurer said Hyderabad based Dr Santosh G Honavar, Honorary Secretary, in a press note issued in the city today.
We appeal to the Honourable Finance Minister to exempt sight-saving ophthalmic equipment conforming to the HS Code 901850 from customs duty and GST said the Petition.
The members of AIOS spearhead and work extensively towards achieving the goals of the Government of India, the International Agency for Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in alleviating blindness and visual impairment. Typically, Indian Ophthalmologists directly touch and positively impact the lives of about 5 lakh patients every day.
India has one of the highest numbers of the visually impaired and blind globally. Currently, there are an estimated 5 million blind and 70 million visually impaired in India, out of which about a quarter of a million are blind children – it implies that one in every 50 Indians suffers from blindness or visual impairment. The sheer scale of this malady necessitates immediate and substantive intervention to mitigate the widespread impact on individuals and society.
While cataracts and related pathologies remain the major cause of blindness in adults, corneal opacity, glaucoma and retinal diseases contribute to about 20%. Uncorrected refractive error is the leading cause of visual impairment.
WHO has estimated that over 80% of blindness and visual impairment can be alleviated by appropriate intervention.
Historic measures to alleviate blindness and visual impairment in India, its impact, and the role of Indian ophthalmologists:
India was the first country in the world to launch the National Programme for Control of Blindness in 1976. The WHO and IAPB propelled the Vision 2020 – Right to Sight initiative in 1999 to eliminate avoidable blindness. India was one of 183 countries that signed the global initiative in 2004 and is committed to reducing the burden of preventable blindness by the year 2030.
Indian ophthalmologists have worked with the Government of India to alleviate the burden of preventable blindness and visual impairment. Thus, they have helped reduce the prevalence of blindness from 1% in 1996 to 0.36% now and visual impairment by 50% in a decade between 2010 and 2020.
Indian ophthalmologists perform over 9 million cataract surgeries a year currently, of which about 60-70% are free of charge to the patient, the petition added
Further, the economic burden of blindness and visual impairment in India is profound. Direct costs include medical expenses for treatment, surgeries, and ongoing care. Indirect costs are even more substantial, encompassing lost productivity, reduced quality of life, and the need for caregivers. Visual impairment significantly affects individuals’ ability to work, resulting in decreased income and increased dependency.
The overall economic loss due to blindness in India is estimated at INR 845 billion annually. Additionally, the potential annual productivity loss due to vision impairment is INR 646 billion, encompassing lost earnings, reduced productivity, and increased healthcare costs.
The total annual economic impact of blindness and visual impairment in India is INR 1500 billion (INR 1,50,000 Crores).
The cumulative loss of Gross National Income (GNI) from avoidable blindness stands at INR 11,778.6 billion.
Incentives to support the national mission to alleviate blindness and visual impairment:
Recognizing the need to tackle the causes of avoidable blindness and visual impairment, the Government of India vide notification 69/93- CE fully exempted 58 specified sight-saving equipment (HS Code 901850) from Customs Duty. This specific reform helped usher in a revolution in the quality and reach of eye care in India.
However, over the years, the basic Customs Duty has been re-imposed to the extent of 7.5% to 10% + IGST of 12% + cess, thus immensely impacting the CapEx and OpEx of eye hospitals and consequently the cost of care. This has also severely dis-incentivised and made it economically challenging to provide subsidized/free eye care.
Because the economic impact of blindness and visual impairment is INR 1500 billion (INR 1,50,000 Crores) a year, and 80% of blindness and visual impairment can be alleviated (thus resulting in a potential gain of INR 1,20,000 to GNI annually) it seems prudent to reinstate exemption of customs duty and GST for ophthalmic sight saving equipment – HS 901850.
Exempting customs duty on sight-saving equipment will make these essential requirements for eye care more affordable and accessible to millions of Indians in need. This policy change can significantly reduce the prevalence of blindness and visual impairment, enhance the quality of life for affected individuals, and mitigate the economic burden on society.
We earnestly appeal to your esteemed office to consider this request favourably and take decisive action to promote eye health in India, the AIOS office bearers emphasised in the petition
