11, Dec 2024
MAHE Shines at International Folklore Film Festival with Two Documentaries Chosen for Screening
Manipal, 11th December 2024: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) has added another feather to its cap with the official selection of two of its documentaries for the 8th edition of the International Folklore Film Festival (IFFF) in Thrissur, Kerala. IFFF is a prestigious global event that celebrates folklore and cultural heritage through cinema. The festival receives more than 800 films from worldwide and this year it will screen over 200 films from around the world that offer a unique glimpse into the rich diversity of folklore-based storytelling. MAHE is proud that two of its documentaries will be screened in the festival during 10 -15 January 2025.
The festival organized by the International Film Festival of Thrissur (IFFT), Bhoumam Social Initiative, the Centre for Media Studies at St. Thomas College, Thrissur, and International Folk Films India, The selected documentaries, Pilivesha of Tulunadu and Satyada Siri: A Woman’s Tale, are a testament to MAHE’s commitment to showcasing the vibrant cultural heritage of the region to the global audience. Pilivesha of Tulunadu explores the deeply rooted tradition of Pilivesha, or the Tiger Dance, a symbolic and artistic practice central to the cultural identity of Tulu Nadu. The film highlights its significance in promoting harmony and unity among diverse communities while preserving a unique artistic expression. On the other hand, Satyada Siri: A Woman’s Tale presents a moving narrative about faith and spirituality, reflecting the profound connection between individual belief systems and the collective well-being.
Satyada Siri: A Woman’s Tale has already garnered international acclaim, having been screened at the Multicultural Film Festival 2024 in Perth, Australia, and the Cinemaking International Film Festival 2023 in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Pilivesha of Tulunadu has made MAHE proud with its recent official selection at the Tokyo Documentary Film Festival 2024. The documentary was screened under visual anthropology category at Tokyo, Japan on 05 December 2024.
Both films were directed by Dr. Praveen K. Shetty, Coordinator of the Centre for Intercultural Studies and Dialogue (CISD) at MAHE, and Nitesh Anchan, Research Associate at CISD. The documentaries are part of the larger project Discerning India: Living Cultures of Tulunadu, an initiative by MAHE. Launched in September 2021, this project aimed to bring the cultural heritage of Tulunadu—a region encompassing Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, and Kasargod districts—to a global audience through an online course. The self-paced online course offered under Directorate of Online Education, MAHE includes documentaries, expert lectures, and academic readings, providing an immersive experience into Tulunadu’s living traditions. The course has already been completed by 450 participants, primarily students, enriching their understanding of the region’s heritage. The next batch of the online course will be open for registration in the last week of December 2024.
MAHE’s consistent efforts through CISD reflect its dedication to preserving and disseminating the intangible cultural heritage of Tulu Nadu. These documentaries celebrate the region’s cultural richness and position MAHE as an international academic institution with strong regional rootedness.
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- By Rabindra
11, Dec 2024
Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya Actor Ashish Dixit Hails Abha Parmar as the Heart of the Show
In every family, there’s always one person whose warmth and love hold everything together, making the home a special place. In Sun Neo’s Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya, that person is none other than Abha Parmar, who plays the beloved character of Dadi. Recently, Ashish Dixit, who portrays Kartik in the show, expressed his admiration for Abha Parmar, calling her the backbone of the entire cast and crew and highlighting how she has fostered a family-like bond off-screen.
Sharing his heartfelt thoughts about his on-screen Dadi, Ashish said, “Our Dadi on the show, Aabha Ma’am, is not just the head of the family on-screen but also off-screen. She’s the one who has brought our entire team together like a real family. She is such a warm and loving person, and we all respect her deeply. Every day, we have lunch together in her room, just like a family would. If there’s ever a small disagreement between any of us, she steps in like a true elder, patiently explaining things and ensuring both sides apologize and make up. It’s beautiful how she creates harmony on set, just as she does in her character on the show.”
The Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya actor further added, “She truly is the backbone of our team, the thread that binds us all together. Her positive energy and wisdom inspire everyone to give their best, and her presence makes the set feel like home. Whether it’s guiding us with her experience or sharing a laugh during breaks, she’s a constant source of warmth and guidance. We’re so lucky to have her as part of the team. She holds a special place in all our hearts, both as a colleague and as a family member in this journey.”
Abha Parmar plays the role of Dadi to Kartik (Ashish Dixit), the head of the family, in Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya. Airing on Sun Neo at 7 PM, the show is an emotional family drama revolving around Vaishnavi (Brinda Dahal), an orphan who considers Chhathi Maiyya her mother and holds a deep reverence for her.
11, Dec 2024
WhatsApp Kicks Off ‘Bharat Yatra’ Initiative to Boost Small Business Growth in India
Bengaluru, December 11, 2024: WhatsApp today kicked off WhatsApp Bharat Yatra, a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at providing on-ground, in-person training to small businesses across India. The mobile bus tour is designed to help small businesses fully leverage the capabilities of WhatsApp, enhancing their digital skills and business growth potential.
Starting with Delhi-NCR, the bus will visit some of the region’s most popular and busy markets such as Laxmi Nagar, Rajouri Garden, and Nehru Place, Malviya Nagar, Amar Colony, and Safdarjung Enclave. The journey will also cover key hubs in Gurgaon and Noida, including Sapphire Mall and Atta Market.
Following its tour in Delhi-NCR, the WhatsApp-branded bus will travel across India, reaching cities like Agra, Lucknow, Kanpur, Indore, Ahmedabad, Surat, Nashik, Mysore, Vijayawada. Through this initiative, small and medium businesses (SMBs) will benefit from interactive demos, hands-on personalized training – to get support creating their Business Profile, setting up a catalog and creating an ad that clicks to start a WhatsApp chat – and expert guidance on leveraging the WhatsApp Business app’s key features to establish their WhatsApp presence, better connect with their customers, close sales and grow their business. enhance their operations.
Ravi Garg, Director, Business Messaging, Meta in India said, “Small businesses are the backbone of India’s economy, and with the right digital tools, they have the power to supercharge the country’s digital transformation. The WhatsApp Bharat Yatra is our commitment to helping these businesses unlock their full potential by providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to digitally connect with their customers, grow and succeed. By meeting businesses where they are—both physically and digitally—we aim to create a meaningful, long-lasting impact across India’s entrepreneurial landscape.”
Recently, WhatsApp introduced some new updates for small businesses, including Meta Verified, which helps businesses build credibility with customers. Additionally, businesses can now send customized messages to their customers, such as appointment reminders, birthday greetings, or even updates on a holiday sale, all in a faster and more efficient way.
For small businesses, WhatsApp has also started testing Meta AI, making it easier for them to activate AI directly from the WhatsApp Business app and engage with their customers more efficiently. The WhatsApp Bharat Yatra will provide in-person training across various tools and features on the WhatsApp Business app, helping businesses make the most of these updates. The WhatsApp Bharat Yatra will help businesses provide in- person training across various tools and features on the WhatsApp Business app. The WhatsApp Bharat Yatra will help businesses provide in- person training across various tools and features on the WhatsApp Business app.
WhatsApp Bharat Yatra is the latest in a series of transformative initiatives by the brand aimed at empowering small businesses in India. With programs such as WhatsApp Se Wyapaar with CAIT to upskill 10 million traders, Digishaastra, powered by WhatsApp was launched by India SME Forum, Meta’s strategic partnership with ONDC, WhatsApp continues to champion digital transformation, ensuring India’s small businesses are at the forefront of the nation’s growing digital economy.
11, Dec 2024
‘Angreji Beat’ Takes the Internet by Storm with Groundbreaking New Music Video
“Angreji Beat” by Yo Yo Honey Singh and Gippy Grewal, one of Punjabi music’s biggest anthems, has made a major comeback. Times Music, in association with Speed Records, has dropped the long-awaited original music video of this iconic hit. After more than a decade, the never-seen-before footage, shot in 2011 but never released, is now available on Speed Records’ YouTube channel. The music video has already taken the internet by storm, trending at the top on YouTube and reigniting nostalgia among fans worldwide.
Gippy Grewal, the legendary Punjabi singer, shared his excitement, “‘Angreji Beat’ was a game-changer for me. Seeing the video finally drop after so many years feels surreal. The song still holds a special place in my heart, and it’s amazing to see how fans are embracing it once again.”
Mandar Thakur, CEO of Times Music/Junglee Music, expressed his thoughts saying, “‘Angreji Beat’ has been a party anthem for over a decade, and bringing back this raw, unfiltered footage will keep fans hooked. The response has been overwhelming – the energy from the fans is electrifying, and the video is buzzing everywhere!”
The video’s release has caused a wave of excitement online, with fans flooding social media to share their reactions, making it clear that Angreji Beat is more than just a song – it’s a cultural moment that refuses to fade.
11, Dec 2024
TiE Global Summit 2024 Kicks Off with Focus on Collaboration, Innovation, and Global Growth
Bengaluru/Mumbai, December 11, 2024: The TiE Global Summit 2024 (TGS24) commenced today at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC), bringing together distinguished global leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers. Organized by TiE Bangalore, the summit brings together global entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders to explore key themes of innovation, collaboration, and the future of entrepreneurship. It is Supported by the Government of Karnataka (Department of E, IT, BT) as the State Partner and co-hosted by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, and Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), the summit aims to redefine the global entrepreneurship landscape under the theme “Putting Entrepreneurship First.”
The summit began with the Antraprerna Summit on December 9, which laid the foundation for discussions on sustainability, innovation, and building entrepreneurial ecosystems. The sessions provided actionable insights into tackling global challenges and fostering sustainable growth.
The inauguration ceremony witnessed participation from an illustrious panel of dignitaries, including Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister of IT, BT, RDPR, Government of Karnataka; Lt. Governor Tahesha Way, New Jersey and Secretary of State; Shri Arvind Kumar, Director General, STPI; Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Principal Secretary to Government, Department of E, IT, BT & S&T, Government of Karnataka; Mr. Chris Hodges, U.S. Consul General, Chennai; Shri Prashanth Prakash, Chairman, Karnataka Vision Board and Founding Partner, Accel India; Shri BV Naidu, Chairman, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission; Dr. Sanjay Tyagi, Jurisdictional Director, STPI; Mr. Ashish Chauhan, MD & CEO, NSE; Shri Sanjeev Gupta, CEO, Karnataka Digital Economy Mission (KDEM); Mr. Amit Gupta, Global Chair, TiE Global; Mr. A.J. Patel, Chairman, TiE Global; Mr. Akhilesh Tuteja, Global Cyber Security Leader, KPMG; Mr. Madan Padaki, President of TiE Bangalore and Chair of TGS24; and Ms. Lakshmi Pratury, CEO, INK Talks.
On the inauguration day, the summit featured an engaging session titled “Entrepreneurship Through the Lens of Storytellers,” where Mr. Madan Padaki, President of TiE Bangalore and Chair of TiE Global Summit 2024, conversed with renowned Indian film actor Vidya Balan and film producer Siddharth Roy Kapur. The session delved into their unconventional journeys, exploring the resilience required to overcome setbacks and the power of persistence. Vidya shared her belief in staying grounded and approaching every opportunity with a fresh perspective, while Siddharth highlighted the importance of intentionality and adapting to challenges. Both speakers drew fascinating parallels between storytelling and entrepreneurship, emphasizing the highs, lows, and the constant drive to innovate and learn.
In another captivating session at the TiE Global Summit 2024, legendary tennis champion and philanthropist Andre Agassi took the stage for the FutureSparks session, themed ‘Marathon Mindset.’ He shared his remarkable journey, from dropping out of 8th grade to pursue tennis full-time, to becoming a transformative figure in education by building 130 schools that have benefited over 80,000 children in the past decade. Agassi emphasized the value of hard work and work-life balance, explaining that while his father valued success through winning and money, he focused on listening to his children and holding them accountable. He spoke about the importance of curiosity in education and the willingness to take risks, which has allowed him to learn and grow throughout his life. He also highlighted the role of sports in shaping creativity, problem-solving skills, and the ability to thrive in high-pressure environments, stressing that losses are only valuable when you learn from them.
During the inauguration of the TiE Global Summit 2024, the KPMG-TiE report “Democratisation of Entrepreneurship” was unveiled, highlighting key insights such as 20% of MSME startups being women-led, 45% emerging from Tier II/III cities, and the important role of government-supported incubation programs in fostering entrepreneurship. Lt. Governor Tahesha Way, New Jersey and Secretary of State delivered a speech emphasizing the strong ties between New Jersey and India. She highlighted the state’s $11.3 billion in two-way trade and a 2,025% increase in Indian business interest since 2019. With its world-class universities, skilled workforce, and history of innovation, New Jersey offers ample opportunities for Indian entrepreneurs. Also, Mr. Ashish Chauhan, MD& CEO, National Stock Exchange, spoke about the transformative role of technology in India’s financial markets, with the NSE empowering millions and driving wealth creation, underlining technology’s central role in India’s growth.
A major highlight of TGS24 is the TGS100 initiative, which showcases 100 early-stage startups selected from over 1,300 applications across 17 countries. These startups, spanning sectors like AI, Healthcare, Climate, and Social Impact, will pitch to a super-jury of investors and industry leaders for a chance to win a prize pool of INR 50 lakhs. Additionally, the TiE Women Global Pitch Competition, with 3,100+ women-led startups from 62 countries, will culminate with 43 finalists competing for top honors and a USD 50,000 prize pool.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the TiE Global Summit, Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Bt, RDPR, Government of Karnataka said, “Karnataka views entrepreneurs as innovators and disruptors, whose transformative ideas are not only creating new markets and job opportunities but also shaping a more sustainable future. By equipping entrepreneurs with essential tools like mentorship and incubation, we aim to make entrepreneurship a natural choice, not just an aspiration. The Elevate program, run by the Government of Karnataka, supports startups with 50 lakh rupees in funding, with zero equity taken. To date, 983 startups have been funded through this initiative, with 32% hailing from Tier-1 and Tier-2 towns and 24% being women-led. I invite global entrepreneurs and think tanks to join hands with the Government of Karnataka in building a better, brighter, and bolder world.”
“Entrepreneurship is a transformative force—it’s not just about starting businesses, but about shaping the future. Reflecting on the growth of India’s financial markets, particularly with the Bombay Stock Exchange and the National Stock Exchange, technology stands as the driving engine behind this transformation. The NSE revolutionized the market with screen-based trading in 1994, and today it empowers millions of Indians to participate in wealth creation. As our nation continues to evolve, technology will remain the cornerstone of our growth. Whether you’re a small business owner or a large corporation, India’s capital markets offer a platform for all, driving innovation and opportunity. The future belongs to those who innovate, and in India, that future is bright for entrepreneurs and investors alike.” — Ashish Chauhan, MD&CEO, National Stock Exchange.
Speaking on the occasion, Madan Padaki, President of TiE Bangalore and Chair of TGS24, said, “As we gather here today, let us celebrate the energy and aspirations that drive us forward. Over the past 32 years, TiE has been a beacon of purpose, fostering entrepreneurship and building a better world. This journey has been fueled by the incredible power of our ecosystem – a collective force of government leaders, academia, financial institutions, investors, and entrepreneurs. Together, we have proven that nothing is impossible when the right minds come together. The connections we create here, the ideas we ignite, and the passion we share make TiE a global phenomenon. Today, we don’t just light a lamp; we light the path for future entrepreneurs. It is the spirit of TiE – uniting the world, empowering innovation, and elevating entrepreneurship to new heights.”
At the inauguration ceremony Amit Gupta, Global Chair of TiE Global said, “The TiE Global Summit 2024 marks a significant milestone in our ongoing mission to empower entrepreneurs across the globe. This summit is not just a platform for networking, but a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and growth. Entrepreneurship is the heartbeat of innovation, transforming global challenges into opportunities, creating jobs, and driving sustainable economic growth. By harnessing technology and fostering collaboration, we are shaping a more inclusive and prosperous future for communities worldwide. Its transformative power lies in empowering millions, sparking groundbreaking ideas, and uplifting underrepresented voices. Together, we turn aspirations into impact, enabling communities to rise and thrive.”
11, Dec 2024
MIT-WPU Revolutionizes Mobility with Patent-Backed 5G Vehicle Tracking System
December 11, Mumbai: With the ever-growing demand for logistics, commercial operations, and traffic management, there is an increasing need for efficient vehicle monitoring systems to ensure smoother operations that are fast, safe, and reliable. In a significant achievement in this direction, a team of professors and students at MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU), Pune, has developed an advanced vehicle data tracking system, backed by 5G and the latest technologies, for real-time vehicle monitoring, safety, and enhanced operational efficiency.
The team, comprising Ashutosh Solanke, Malhar Jojare, Hrushikesh Kalamkar, and mentor Prof. Shweta Kukade, has secured a patent for the novel integration of 5G technology, real-time tracking, and enhanced safety features into vehicle data monitoring systems. This system will now enable fleet operators, automotive manufacturers, insurance companies, logistics firms, smart city planners, and others to benefit from its real-time tracking, geo-fencing, and emergency alert capabilities.
The MIT-WPU team is now focusing on commercializing the system through partnerships with automotive manufacturers, fleet management companies, and logistics firms. The goal is to integrate the system into both commercial and public sector vehicle fleets, enhancing their operational efficiency and safety. Furthermore, the team plans to explore consumer applications by developing a version for individual vehicle owners, which would offer enhanced security and tracking capabilities.
Speaking about the unique features and importance of the system, Prof. Shweta Kukade, Assistant Professor at MIT World Peace University shared, “Traditional systems often lack the high-speed connectivity and precise location tracking necessary for modern applications. Our system leverages 5G technology and enhanced GPS/GLONASS accuracy, providing faster, more reliable tracking, making it invaluable for sectors like fleet management, logistics, insurance, and public transportation. We are also considering scaling the system for use in smart cities, potentially integrating it with IoT infrastructure for real-time urban mobility management, ensuring continuous product innovation and development.”
The system overcomes the limitations of existing vehicle tracking systems that operate on 2G or 3G networks, which have limited data transfer speeds and reduced accuracy in pinpointing a vehicle’s location. The integration of 5G addresses issues such as delayed tracking data, unreliable connectivity in rural areas, and weaker precision. This is a game-changer, enabling real-time data transfer and reliable tracking, particularly in rural, remote, or challenging environments, with accurate and fast location tracking through technologies like GPS and GLONASS.
Additionally, the system includes geo-fencing, allowing for virtual boundaries to be set and providing alerts if vehicles leave designated areas. The emergency button feature enables immediate alerts in critical situations. The automatic switch to open Wi-Fi networks ensures that the system maintains connectivity even when 5G isn’t available. These improvements offer greater speed, precision, and safety compared to legacy systems that rely on 2G/3G networks with only GPS tracking.
The system is designed to automatically connect to authorized, open Wi-Fi networks, typically in public spaces, without breaching any legal or network boundaries. It does not access private or password-protected networks without permission. This feature ensures continuous connectivity, especially when vehicles enter areas where 5G signals may be weak or unavailable, all while respecting the integrity of secured networks.
With its cutting-edge technology and versatile applications, the MIT-WPU team’s vehicle data tracking system has the potential to bring a significant change in fleet management, logistics, and urban mobility. As they move towards commercialization, the team is confident that this innovation will set new standards for safety, efficiency, and real-time monitoring in the transportation sector.
11, Dec 2024
Manappuram Foundation Recognized with Eco-Friendly Skill Development Award
Valappad/ Thrissur: Manappuram Foundation, the CSR wing of Manappuram Finance Ltd. has received the National Awards on Eco-Friendly Skill Development for its exemplary efforts in sustainable skill development initiatives. The award was presented at a grand ceremony held in Bengaluru and was received by Mr. George D. Das, CEO of Manappuram Foundation, and Mr. K.M. Asharaf, Senior PRO of Manappuram Finance. This recognition highlights the foundation’s skill development programs aimed to support the education of economically underprivileged children. As part of the commitment to social responsibility, the Manappuram Foundation spends over ₹6 crore annually in the education sector.
Expressing his contentment on receiving the award, Manappuram Foundation Managing Trustee, Mr. V.P. Nandakumar said, it is great honour to receive this award for Manappuram Foundation”. “It is crucial to implement learning methods that encourage students to explore their multifaceted skills. Equipping our children with world-class knowledge in modern technologies is a necessity. This award serves as an inspiration to strengthen our ongoing skill development projects in the education sector,” he added.
The foundation’s continued focus on empowering education through innovative and inclusive initiatives that align with our vision to create healthy, educated and happy communities
11, Dec 2024
Taste the Secrets of Paradise: ‘Royal Food Festival’ Brings Exclusive Dishes to the Table
Hyderabad/Mumbai, 11 December 2024: The popular Hyderabadi food chain Paradise had a grand inauguration of the ‘Royal Food Festival’ at their main outlet in Secunderabad. Themed around ‘Secrets from the Kitchen of Paradise’, the food festival is open to all at all the outlets and through all the delivery modes. The food festival intends to bring exquisite flavours, especially with enchanting aromas and enriching taste using the traditional high-quality spices and recipes right out of the royal kitchen of Paradise.
On the launch of the Royal Festival, Mr. Gautam Gupta, CEO – Paradise Food Court Pvt. Ltd. said, “We are very excited with the launch of this Royal food festival. It is unique as we are bringing the secrets from our kitchen while also providing an opportunity for people to bond over food. People have loved our Biryani and now this is an offering providing NEW CHOICES to Families with Kebabs, Curries and Desserts. This holiday season, it is yet another treat from Paradise with safety and hygiene at our core as always.”
The Royal Food Festival is among the other unique food festivals periodically organised by Paradise while they ensure that the ingredients for their menu are of high quality. Quality control and Safety protocols are given a priority from preparation to serving the food on table, which has been customary at Paradise for decades.
In today’s era of 10-minute deliveries and fleeting reels, the Royal Festival encourages everyone to pause and create real connections by spending meaningful time with family and friends. Paradise facilitates these connections by offering delicious food choices like its iconic Biryani and more, paired with great-value combos, making every gathering a truly royal celebration.
They ensure that the ingredients for their menu are of high quality and make the choicest picks of the spices which are used in their unique secret ratio. Quality control and safety protocols are given a priority from preparation to catering the food on table as has been customary at Paradise for decades.
The food chain has acquired its place in the Limca Book of Records for ‘Most Biryanis Served In A Year’. In 2017, Paradise catered over 70 lakh servings of biryani and in 2018 the numbers crossed over 90 lakh. Paradise also won the ‘Restaurant Serving The Best Biryani’ award at the Asia Food Congress and Golden Spoon Award at the India Food Forum in 2018. Through the years they have won several accolades and laurels from Telangana State Hotels Associations, GHMC, Times Food Award, Pride of Telangana and Lifetime Achievement Award to name a few.
11, Dec 2024
Life-Saving Initiative: Jupiter Foundation’s ‘My Organ Project’ Aims to Boost Organ Donation Awareness
Thane, December 11, 2024 – Jupiter Foundation has announced the launch of its dedicated initiative, ‘My Organ Project,’ aimed at raising awareness about organ donation and encouraging individuals to pledge their organs to save lives. With India facing a significant gap between the demand for donated organs and their availability, this initiative seeks to educate the public, dispel myths, and foster a culture of organ pledging.
In collaboration with key organizations like the Zonal Transplant Coordination Committee (ZTCC) and ROTTO-SOTTO (Regional cum State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation, West & Maharashtra), ‘My Organ Project’ is committed to creating widespread awareness about the critical need for organ and tissue donation. The initiative highlights the importance of brain death awareness and promotes ethical and transparent donation practices.
“Organ donation is one of the most profound gifts one human being can offer another,” said Dr. Ajay P. Thakker, Chairman and Managing Director of Jupiter Hospitals. “Through ‘My Organ Project,’ we aim to educate individuals and families about the immense life-saving potential of organ pledging. A single pledge can give hope and a second chance to those waiting for transplants.”
Corporate and Community Engagement
As part of its mission, Jupiter Foundation is partnering with corporates, housing societies, and educational institutions to expand the reach of ‘My Organ Project.’ Through targeted outreach programs, awareness sessions, and organ pledging drives, these collaborations aim to bring communities, workplaces, and students together to support the cause. By involving schools and colleges, the initiative seeks to inspire younger generations to embrace the spirit of giving.
Addressing Misconceptions and Promoting Dialogue
The initiative emphasizes the need to address common misconceptions and fears surrounding organ donation, focusing on the facts about brain death and the organ donation process. Educational campaigns, workshops, and public awareness drives will reach individuals from all walks of life, empowering them to make informed decisions.
Additionally, interfaith discussions will be organized to foster conversations around religious and cultural perspectives on organ donation. By engaging faith leaders and communities, ‘My Organ Project’ aims to create a unified platform to address concerns and encourage collective support for the cause.
A Call to Action
‘My Organ Project’ is urging individuals to take a simple yet impactful step by pledging their organs. Through this collective effort, Jupiter Foundation and its partners hope to bridge the gap between organ demand and supply, ensuring more lives can be saved.
10, Dec 2024
IndiaRF Commits INR 1,000 Crores Investment in Anthea Aromatics Private Limited
Mumbai, India | December 10th 2024: India Resurgence Fund (“IndiaRF”), a leading India-focused investment platform promoted by Piramal Group and Bain Capital, today announced an investment of up to INR 1,000 crores in Anthea Aromatics Private Limited (“Anthea”). Following the transaction, IndiaRF has become the controlling shareholder of Anthea.
IndiaRF currently manages close to US$ 850 million in assets from its maiden Fund 1, which is fully allocated across twelve investments spanning nine sectors. These investments focus on key India-centric themes such as domestic consumption, export-driven strategies, and core manufacturing. The investment in Anthea is IndiaRF’s first investment from its second fund, which is currently being raised, and its second investment in the specialty chemicals sector.
Founded by Dr. Vincent Paul in 1992, Anthea has grown into a leading aroma specialty chemicals group in India. The company operates five manufacturing facilities across Maharashtra and Karnataka, with a combined capacity of 10,590 tons per annum. Anthea has a strong R&D setup and a successful track record of development and production across a broad range of specialty chemicals, catering to growing end-use applications across flavors and fragrances, home and personal care, pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. Each of the products are critical input in end-use applications without easily available substitutes.
The global aroma specialty chemicals market size is valued at over US$ 5.5 billion and is growing at rate of ~5-6% annually. Fragrance application account for the largest share of over 70% of the end use of aroma chemicals. The value chain in this sector is characterized by strong, enduring customer relationships driven by the high-quality and consistency of the product, the complexity of the manufacturing process, and the stringent supply chain control exercised by end customers.
Anthea is a largely export-driven company, generating over 80% of its revenues from international markets. It holds a global market and capacity share of 12-15% and is ranked amongst the top five players worldwide in its key product categories, reinforcing its strong position within the global aroma specialty chemicals value chain.
Commenting on the transaction, Shantanu Nalavadi, Managing Director of IndiaRF, said, “Indian specialty chemicals sector is known for its reliability, quality, and cost competitiveness, and presents a strong export opportunity. Anthea’s market presence, proprietary development capabilities and manufacturing processes make it well-positioned to benefit from the opportunities that will present themselves. The business needs capital infusion and leadership augmentation for its next phase of growth. We are committed to investing in the growth of Anthea through capacity addition, de-bottlenecking existing capacities, and enhanced R&D to broaden its product offerings.”
Paul Menacherry, Executive Director, Anthea Group added “Anthea is one of Indian’s oldest aroma chemical companies with a strong legacy of developing high-value specialty chemicals for the global flavors and fragrance industry. We see significant export-led growth potential which IndiaRF’s expertise in business transformation will help unlock. We look forward to the journey under IndiaRF’s stewardship and are confident in scaling the business to new heights.”



