2, May 2024
IIITH’s Raj Reddy Center Receives Centific Funding for AI Project on Malnutrition Detection
Hyderabad, May 2nd, 2024: Raj Reddy Center for Technology and Society (RCTS) at the International Institute of Information Technology Hyderabad (IIITH) received funding of Rs 18 lakhs approximately from Centific for its project on ‘AI for Automated Malnutrition Detection’.
Centific’s financial support will propel the project’s first phase, encompassing: Platform Development to build the core infrastructure for the AI-powered malnutrition detection system; the First phase of pilot deployment for implementing the platform on the ground; Data collection for gathering initial data sets to train and refine the AI model; Performance optimisation enhancing the platform’s accuracy and efficiency; and Prototype delivery of the first version within an estimated timeframe of six months.
IIIT Hyderabad has partnered with i-Saksham, a non-profit organization (NGO) dedicated to empowering women and enhancing educational opportunities in Bihar. This collaboration aligns with the New Education Policy’s (NEP) focus on foundational learning outcomes. This project aims to streamline growth monitoring, enhance data accuracy, and provide reliable data to government agencies for effective interventions to combat malnutrition.
Existing workflows for obtaining and recording the measurements of height and weight are completely manual, introducing data-entry errors into the system by frontline staff like Anganwadi workers. Maintaining weight and height measuring tools has also been problematic, leading to unreliable data due to malfunctioning equipment. Due to this the staff do a guesswork to note the height and weight of the children sometimes. There is no proper data available currently to take action towards eliminating the same from the government side.
The current project aims to minimise these errors in data collection by automating the process of recording height and weight information from the measuring device to the database where possible. We propose developing a CV-based solution that attempts to solve the issue with minimal to no additional hardware requirement (other than the user’s smartphone), for consideration by the organisation.
Speaking on the grant, Prof Ramesh Loganathan, Professor of Practice IIIT Hyderabad said, “We are very happy to receive the support from Centific. Such support is very central to our efforts to help NGOs with the latest technology.”
Dr Dinesh Chandrasekar, Chief Strategy Officer at Centific, said, “As pioneers in the AI & Analytics Services, Centific is committed to leveraging AI for social good. In that regard, we are more than happy to support the brilliant minds at IIITH in addressing the silent crisis of malnutrition. Automating the detection process goes beyond mere identification; it facilitates ensuring timely and targeted interventions, potentially saving countless lives. Beyond being a sponsor for this initiative, we also stand ready to provide technical expertise from our talented team at Centific. The intersection of cutting-edge technology and compassionate action holds the potential to revolutionize the way we address societal challenges, ultimately leading to a vibrant and healthier future for all.”
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- By Rabindra
2, May 2024
Indus Creed & Suraj Santosh to perform at FANDOM, Bengaluru on 4th & 11th May
Get ready to experience the magic of live music with specially curated events by Paytm Insider and Thirty Three right here in Bengaluru!
Indus Creed is all set to rock the stage on May 4th, bringing their legendary tunes and infectious energy to our city! Take advantage of this epic experience as they will showcase their timeless hits and electrifying energy on stage!
Venue: Fandom at Gilly’s Redefined
Date: 4th May
Book your tickets only on Paytm & Paytm Insider: https://insider.in/indus-creed-live-at-fandom-may4-2024/event
And on May 11th, get ready to be serenaded by the talented Sooraj Santhosh at Fandom. Joined by a talented ensemble of artists, their performances promise an unforgettable musical experience. Prepare for a night filled with soul-stirring melodies that will leave you wanting more!
Venue: Fandom at Gilly’s Redefined
Date: 11th May
Book your tickets only on Paytm & Paytm Insider
2, May 2024
A New Restaurant Pioneering Flame-Craft Cuisine in Bangalore
Bangalore: Fireside, a new restaurant concept dedicated to the art of open-flame cooking, is set to revolutionize the culinary scene in Bangalore. Open its doors this April, in the heart of Kalyan Nagar, Fireside promises to offer an unparalleled exploration of flavors through meticulous wood-fired techniques.
Fireside goes beyond the theatrics of open flames, focusing on the precise manipulation of wood as the primary fuel source. A diverse selection undergoes meticulous curation each day, transforming into glowing embers that form the cornerstone of the cooking method. This approach elevates the inherent flavors of ingredients, showcasing the transformative power of fire in a way that celebrates their natural essence.
The restaurant’s open-space kitchen offers diners a privileged vantage point to witness the culinary artistry. This transparency underscores Fireside’s commitment to showcasing the simplicity and beauty of open-flame cooking, allowing guests to appreciate the skill and dedication behind each dish.
On the occasion of the opening, Priyanka Alve, Founder of Fireside said “We embrace the sacred art of cooking over fire, making it the heart and soul of our culinary experience. From slow-cooked meats to wood-fired oven-baked breads and char infused vegetables every dish is crafted with reverence for the primal ritual of fire, ensuring a dining journey where every bite ignites the senses and kindles the spirit.“ Fireside is the brainchild of Priyank who transitioned from the world of technology to embrace her culinary passion. Alongside her co-founders and chefs, Rajat Alve, Vineeth Kumar, and Pramodh HN. Alve has assembled a team driven by an unwavering commitment to fire-based culinary exploration. Their deep fascination with this ancient technique ensures that every dish embodies the essence of open-flame mastery.
The menu at Fireside transcends geographical boundaries, offering a symphony of globally-inspired dishes united by their transformation through fire. From in-house fermented Kombucha, Oven Baked Sea Bass with Seafood Paella, Birria Taco, Jackfruit Pepper fry Risotto to Smoked Lamb leg or Pork Ribs, each plate is a testament to the versatility and power of this elemental cooking method.
The ambiance at Fireside is designed to engage all senses. The inviting atmosphere is punctuated by the rhythmic crackle of flames and the enticing aroma of wood smoke. Rustic elegance defines the décor, setting the stage for an unforgettable culinary journey, whether for an intimate gathering or a lively social experience.
Fireside elevates dining to an art form, fostering a sense of connection and shared experience. The passionate chefs and attentive staff are dedicated to crafting lasting memories for each guest, ensuring every moment resonates, from the mesmerizing dance of flames to the final, satisfying bite.
Fireside promises to ignite your passion for exceptional dining, offering an experience that transcends the traditional restaurant model to explore the transformative power of fire-based cuisine.
2, May 2024
Unmasking Primary Immune Disorders: ACC spearheads raising awareness and the battle against PIDs
Chennai, May 2nd, 2024 – Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) advocates raising awareness and addresses the challenges posed by the often-overlooked Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders (PIDs). In commemoration of the World Primary Immunodeficiency Week, observed from April 22nd to 29th, ACC spearheads discussions around this crucial health issue, shedding light on its prevalence and impact.
Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders represent a group of inherited conditions that compromise the body’s immune system, leaving individuals susceptible to infections. Shockingly, a significant portion of individuals with PIDs remain undiagnosed, leading to untreated complications and heightened risks. Despite the widespread impact of PIDs, there is alarmingly high mortality rates among affected infants, particularly those below one-year-old. Undiagnosed cases significantly contribute to this concerning statistic. While PIDs tends to be more severe in children, it can also affect adults, albeit with differing diagnostic challenges. In adults, the road to diagnosis may be prolonged, sometimes spanning up to 25 years from the onset of initial symptoms to an accurate PID diagnosis. This delay underscores the importance of heightened awareness and proactive screening initiatives to ensure timely medical intervention and improved outcomes for individuals affected by PID.
Over 6 million people globally suffer from PIDs, with an alarming 70-90% of cases remaining undiagnosed
(source:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7935502/#:~:text=Around%20the%20world%2C%20over%206%20million%20people,or%20more%20component%20of%20the%20immune%20system)
In India, where consanguineous marriages are prevalent, the incidence of PIDs is notably high, exacerbating the challenge. It is estimated that there could be more than one million patients with PID in India. Since PID is a genetic condition, there is a chance of every pregnancy being affected. Prenatal diagnosis or testing the foetus at 10 to 11 weeks for pregnancy can help detect whether the foetus is affected or not and families need to be counselled accordingly.
According to WHO (World Health Organization and IUIS (International Immunological Societies), over 120 Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders (PIDs) exist, with antibody deficiencies like CVID (Common Variable Immunodeficiency), and XLA (X-linked Agammaglobulinemia), topping the list.
(source: https://www.ipspiindia.org/about-pid)
Dr. Revathi Raj, Senior Consultant in Paediatric Haematology Oncology at Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai, “PIDs, though often unnoticed, can significantly impact a child’s health. Early diagnosis and timely treatment of primary immune deficiencies can help these children to lead a good quality life. Awareness is not only important for treatment but also for prevention. We envision a future where every child with PID can lead a healthy and fulfilling life.”
Dr. Ramya Uppuluri, Consultant – Paediatric Haematology Oncology, emphasizes, “From cutting-edge diagnostics, including genetic testing and immunological assays, which play a pivotal role in accurately diagnosing PID, to advanced therapies like bone marrow transplantation, our comprehensive centre for PIDs is equipped with the expertise and resources to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by PID”.
Dr Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd, said, “As we face the critical challenge of Primary Immune Disorders affecting millions, often in silence, Apollo Cancer Centres is committed to lighting the path forward. Awareness of these conditions is crucial, not only for effective treatment but also for prevention. By educating families and healthcare professionals, we aim to ensure early diagnosis and timely intervention, thus transforming the lives of countless children. Together, we are dedicated to a future where every child with PID can enjoy a healthy and fulfilling life”.
Fourteen-year-old Kavin, the PID warrior, said, “Battling constant infections was terrifying. Each cough and fever felt life-threatening. It wasn’t until Apollo Cancer Centre diagnosed and treated me for PIDs. Despite the fear, the medical team’s counselling provided immense comfort and I hope for a healthier future.”
Comprehensive Centre for PIDs at ACC is equipped with cutting-edge facilities, including a state-of-the-art Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), access to internationally acclaimed specialists in Pediatric Infectious Diseases and proficiency in PID diagnosis. ACC’s efforts extend beyond treatment to proactive measures such as genetic counselling for families with a history of PIDs, aimed at prevention at large. By nurturing awareness and facilitating early medical intervention, ACC strives to reshape the narrative surrounding Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders, ensuring a brighter future for affected children.
2, May 2024
Statiq Chooses Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE Works to Boost EV Charging Infrastructure in India
Dassault Systèmes(Euronext Paris: FR0014003TT8, DSY.PA) today announced that Statiq, India’s largest EV charging network, is using Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE Works to develop reliable, accessible and affordable EV charging infrastructure in India. Statiq can focus on developing innovative solutions to accelerate India’s transition to sustainable mobility.
This adoption is driven by Statiq’s need to overcome product development, design and production-related challenges such as the lack of revision control and design validation, thelack of a single platform for multi-stakeholder collaboration, and difficulty in data segregation, tracking and retrieval.
The use of 3DEXPERIENCE Works on the cloud helped Statiq in the rapid design, development and review of EV charging solutions tailored for diverse customer requirements.3DEXPERIENCE Works is a portfolio of applications on Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform, for SOLIDWORKS customers and small and mid-sized companies. The powerful and intuitive 3D product development solutions helped Statiq design and engineer engaging product experiences, and significantly reduced product development lifecycles by doing away with the need for extensive physical prototyping and testing.
Leveraging the 3DEXPERIENCE platform’s ready-to-use applications, the team seamlessly collaborated digitally, significantly reducing task completion time by 60%. With access to a data repository on the cloud, Statiq was able to streamline the data segregation process and share non-CAD data along with designs. The collaborative working environment offered by the platform enabled multiple stakeholders operating across time zones and locations to work in sync. Inbuilt revision control made multiple CAD iterations possible in realtime, and the accuracy of the 3D models significantly reduced turnaround time and fabrication rework by identifying potential issues early on.
The mission of Statiq is to revolutionize the EV charging experience in India by building a network strong and reliable enough to usher in a new era of sustainability. The company envisages an India where a climate-conscious public leverages electric vehicles without compromising convenience or affordability. Statiq, through its range of products, aims to raise the bar of the EV charging ecosystem in India by improving accessibility to the future of mobility.
“3DEXPERIENCE Works on the cloud helped increase visibility and efficiency across processes, resulting in rapid product development and reduced operational costs. By leveraging the power of the cloud, enterprise-wide collaboration and data management have become seamless. This has streamlined our product lifecycle management process and significantly reduced market time for our range of affordable EV charging solutions,” said Vasu Goel, R&D Lead, Statiq.
“3DEXPERIENCE Works offers a virtual environment to design and develop engaging product experiences with powerful, intuitive 3D solutions accessible to any business. Leading engineers and designers trust our ready-to-deploy portfolioon the cloud to create, collaborate and deliver innovative products tailored to their clients’ requirements. Statiq has access to a wide range of easy-to-use applications that can help in the development of cutting-edge EV charging solutions that are accessible, reliable, affordable, and part of India’s transitional journey to sustainable mobility,” said Deepak NG, Managing Director India, Dassault Systèmes.
2, May 2024
hubergroup Chemicals Premieres Wide-Range Materials at Paintistanbul & Turkcoa
Hubergroup Chemicals, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of chemicals for inks and coatings, will present its comprehensive portfolio for the first time at paintistanbul & Turkcoat from May 8 – May 10, 2024, at the Istanbul Expo Center, Turkey. A special focus of the division of the international chemical and printing ink specialist hubergroup, founded in 2020 and based in Germany, will be on the wide range of chemical raw materials for inks and coatings. All interested parties are cordially invited to visit stand D111 in Hall 1.
Paintinstanbul & Turkcoat is one of the largest international platforms for the paint, ink and coating industry. Every two years the exhibition brings together leading companies from all over the world; it is a pioneer in establishing new business agreements and offers participating companies the opportunity to meet with local and foreign visitors. This year, hubergroup Chemicals is participating in Paintinstanbul & Turkcoat for the first time, presenting its state-of-the-art, comprehensive portfolio of raw materials for inks and coatings. At the same time, hubergroup Chemicals is using Paintinstanbul & Turkcoat to connect with all interested parties in the region.
“We are looking forward to our premiere at Paintinstanbul to build new bridges to all interested parties in Europe, Asia and Africa and to present our comprehensive portfolio of chemical raw materials,” says Burak Sezerel, Sales and Marketing Director of Turkiye, hubergroup Chemicals. “As a young division of the world-renowned hubergroup, we combine experience and innovative spirit, which we are now presenting for the first time in Turkey.”
“Sustainability, efficiency and effectiveness are at the forefront of our broad hubergroup Chemicals portfolio, with the great advantage that we produce all specialty chemicals ourselves and tailor them to the needs of our clients,” says Burak Sezerel, Sales and Marketing Director of Turkiye, hubergroup Chemicals.
hubergroup Chemicals is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of specialty chemicals such as resins, laminating adhesives, additives and dyes with a cumulative production capacity of almost 300 kilotons. In its own production facilities hubergroup Chemicals carries out numerous reaction mechanisms in more than 100 reactors. For example, addition, condensation, and the azo coupling reaction in pigment synthesis are among the group’s specialties.
The company was founded in 2020 and is a division of the international chemical and printing ink specialist hubergroup, which can look back on a history of over 255 years. In recent years, the division has developed into a leading global expert in the field of raw material production. It maintains its own production plants and research departments worldwide, which work closely together on the latest innovations – with more than 20 new products every year.
Thanks to the extensive production capacities, hubergroup Chemicals has acquired many international and regional clients from the chemicals, coatings and printing ink industries in the last two years.
For its premiere at Paintistanbul & Turkcoat, hubergroup Chemicals will be on site with numerous experts who will be able to provide visitors with competent information about the portfolio.
You will find hubergroup Chemicals at Paintistanbul & Turkcoat at stand D111, in Hall 1.
2, May 2024
Bajaj Allianz Unveils Prive Unique Program for Unparalleled Coverage & Service
Bengaluru 2nd May 2024: Bajaj Allianz General Insurance, one of the leading private general insurers in India, today announced the launch of Privé, an exclusive customer experience program offering access to elevated and unmatched customer service excellence. Traditionally, in India, the thrive to increase insurance penetration over the last few years has largely been focused on tapping the customer base across the tier 2/tier 3 locations and rural markets, predominantly covering middle, upper middle class, and rural customers. Bajaj Allianz General Insurance, in addition to its strong focus on increasing insurance penetration across all the above-mentioned customer segments, will now also cater to a special segment of customers typically requiring insurance solutions with enhanced coverage limits. Recognizing the multifaceted requirements and comprehensive protection that align with such discerning customers’ financial and lifestyle preferences, Privé goes beyond the traditional insurance offerings. By being part of Privé, the customers gain access to an array of exclusive and prioritized insurance services, ensuring their requirements are met with precision.
To become a part of Privé, the customers have the flexibility to select from a range of products across health, home, motor, personal accident, and cyber, insurance as per their specific needs. Insurance products currently include the My Health Care Plan, offering customizable health insurance coverage, with a minimum sum insured of INR 1 crore as the eligibility criteria; the Global Health Care offers coverage like overseas medical treatment, and planned and emergency treatments both international and domestic, and the customers can choose any of the sum insured options for eligibility. In addition, a motor product along with V-Pay add-on cover will be offered. This add-on cover consolidates the benefits of an array of fragmented motor insurance add-ons under one offering, requiring a minimum Insured Declared Value (IDV) of INR 25 lakhs or more for a motor vehicle. The My Home Insurance All Risk Policy ensures comprehensive insurance coverage for both home structure and valuable contents in the home. The eligibility criteria here would be a minimum sum insured of INR 3 crores for structure, INR 30 lakhs for non-portable contents, and INR 6 lakhs for portable items. Moreover, in conjunction with the above products, customers can also opt for a higher range of sum insured for advanced products like the Global Personal Guard Policy that extends worldwide personal accident coverage with a range of additional add-ons, and the Cyber Care plan, to protect against losses resulting from cyber-attacks owing to the ever-evolving digital space.
Privé is committed to elevating the service experience through experts focused on expediting claims processing and assistance. Such customers would also have access to ‘Privé Connect’, a dedicated team available to swiftly address all insurance queries and requirements for catering to any service request or claims. In case of health claims, additional services like hassle-free discharge and pre-policy check-ups at home by professionals are also provided. Furthermore, the service is complemented by ‘Care Angels’, who are trained professionals offering personalized assistance and support throughout the hospitalization journey. For the motor insurance add-on product V-Pay, the claim process is streamlined to provide rapid responses, including surveyor deployment on a priority basis. Non-motor insurance claims, such as home insurance claims, will be similarly handled efficiently, with a claim handler reaching out to the customers within turnaround times, which is amongst the best in the market today. Privé offers a seamless claim experience that will enhance the entire lifecycle of the insurance journey, setting a new standard in customer service excellence.
Privé, being a unique first-of-its-kind program, was launched in Pune. Mr. Sanjiv Bajaj, Chairman and Managing Director, Bajaj Finserv Ltd., also graced the event. At the launch event, renowned Indian music composer duo Vishal Shekar enthralled the attendees with an electrifying musical performance. Fashion designer Rocky S also added glamour to the event by showcasing his unique collection. A few select partners and employees also graced the ramp. The event also saw the launch of the Privé logo unveiled by Mr. Sanjiv Bajaj, Chairman and Managing Director, Bajaj Finserv Ltd., Mr. Tapan Singhel, MD & CEO, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance, Rocky Star, Indian Fashion Designer, and Mr. Vikram Bhayana, Head – Marketing, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance.
Speaking on the launch, Mr. Tapan Singhel, MD & CEO, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance, said, “At our core, we’re dedicated to pioneering insurance solutions that cater to the diverse needs of every individual across our nation. With Privé, we’re reaffirming our commitment to continuously innovate and address the unique requirements of discerning individuals. We understand that their sophisticated asset portfolios, astute financial planning, and distinct lifestyles demand insurance offerings that transcend conventional norms. Privé stands out with its best-in-class products and services tailored to the discerning preferences of this exclusive clientele, accessible at their fingertips for unmatched convenience.
What truly distinguishes Privé is our unwavering dedication to service excellence at every touchpoint. Privé ensures an elevated and seamless service experience from dedicated teams to swift claims resolutions and much more. Our customers can expect unparalleled support and assistance throughout their insurance journey. Privé isn’t just another insurance program – it’s a commitment to delivering unmatched service and protection.
We recognize that individuals of this strata expect nothing but the absolute best in products and services. With Privé, we aspire to be the go-to insurer, consistently surpassing customer’s expectations.”
Privé represents another pioneering initiative by Bajaj Allianz General Insurance to create a segmented category for niche customers that addresses their unique needs with a curated selection of personalized insurance offerings, empowering them to safeguard their lifestyle.
2, May 2024
Dil Dosti Dilemma, impresses fans worldwide with its wholesome narrative
After its worldwide premiere, the young adult drama Dil Dosti Dilemma has garnered widespread acclaim and appreciation from both audiences and critics. Critics have praised the series, describing it as “Feel Good,” “A Warm Hug,” “Stellar Performances,” and “Thought-Provoking.” The heartwarming series has struck a chord with viewers due to its wholesome narrative and relatable characters that audiences can genuinely connect with. The seven-part series boasts of a talented ensemble cast including Anushka Sen, Kush Jotwani, Tanvi Azmi, and Shishir Sharma in lead roles, supported by Shruti Seth, Suhasini Mulay, Vishakha Pandey, Revathi Pillai, and Elisha Mayor playing pivotal roles.
The series beautifully explores the complexities of being a young adult, depicting the ups and downs that teens face and the importance of nurturing relationships. It’s a perfect family entertainer for anyone who enjoys heartwarming drama. Fans are hooked on Dil Dosti Dilemma, especially Anushka Sen’s portrayal of Asmara. Her character balances pride with vulnerability, evolving throughout the series in a way that resonates with viewers. Asmara’s stubborn streak adds depth to her character, yet she always remains kind-hearted, making her someone viewers root for. The chemistry between Anushka Sen and Kush, who plays her love interest, is captivating, keeping audiences eagerly anticipating their scenes together.
“I’m truly overwhelmed by all the love and appreciation we’ve received for Dil Dosti Dilemma. Seeing how excited everyone is and hearing all the wonderful reactions to the series just makes me feel incredibly grateful. Thank you for embracing Asmara’s journey, just the way we imagined it,” said Anushka Sen. “It means so much to me that people connected with the dilemmas, the family drama, and the friendships we showed in the series. It’s our audience’s love and enthusiasm that keeps us going and inspires us to bring such meaningful stories to life.”
2, May 2024
Tata Elxsi’s Two Big Wins at iF DESIGN AWARD 2024
Mumbai, May 2nd, 2024: Tata Elxsi, a global leader in design and technology services, has won two iF DESIGN AWARDs in User Experience Design for its Sports and Entertainment OTT Experience solution and Product Design for the “Aha!” Tea Vending Machine for Chaayos.
The competition was intense: over 11,000 entries were submitted from 72 countries. A jury of 132 independent design experts from all over the world handpicked the final winner.
The Sports and Entertainment OTT Experience solution, developed by Tata Elxsi and recipient of the User Experience Design award, offers synchronised real-time data and user controls, enabling a seamless premium sports viewing experience. The solution addresses the saturated streaming market by targeting Millennials and Gen Z across diverse regions. The new solution streamlines multiple products into one platform, fostering brand loyalty and user engagement through AI-powered immersive ads and innovative monetisation opportunities.
Tata Elxsi developed the “Aha!” tea vending machine for Chaayos to bring authentic chai experiences to workplaces and academic institutions. Recently launched in the market, “Aha” machine is a one-of-a-kind, IoT-enabled device, catering to the Indian market with up to 50 customisation options directly from users’ phones. In a matter of less than 30 seconds, users can enjoy a freshly brewed cup of chai. Embracing sustainable design practices, Aha! stands out as a sustainability champion, crafting every cup with 100% natural ingredients and streamlining processes to reduce waste to less than 1%. This innovative solution was adjudged the winner in the Product Design category.
Mohit Malik, CTO, Chaayos, said, “Tata Elxsi’s expertise in the vending category and their strong design team has been instrumental in elevating our next-gen machines to offer a much better customer experience. Their approach to design, usability and manufacturability has delivered the product that is not only visually appealing but high on consumer engagement. It is a great masterpiece that demonstrates seamless integration of design, technology and consumer experience. We are thrilled with the outcome and proud of Tata Elxsi’s recognition at the iF DESIGN AWARD 2024.’’
“Designing products that foster a strong affinity with users and embed sustainability has become essential. At Tata Elxsi, this approach allows our design teams to consistently deliver solutions that not only meet but exceed our clients’ expectations. We are delighted that some of our work has been recognised at the prestigious iF Design Award 2024,” Shyam Sunder B K, Chief Designer, Tata Elxsi.
“This recognition reaffirms our dedication to shaping the future of User Experience Design in the dynamic world of OTT platforms. Winning this prestigious award fuels our team’s drive to keep revolutionising the streaming industry with fresh, captivating experiences,” Utkarsh Biradar, Chief Designer, Experience at Tata Elxsi.
Each year, the world’s oldest independent design organisation, Hannover-based iF International Forum Design GmbH, organises the iF DESIGN AWARD, recognised as an arbiter of quality for excellent design since 1954. The award honors design achievements in all disciplines: product, packaging, communication and service design, architecture, and interior architecture as well as professional concept, user experience (UX), and user interface (UI).
2, May 2024
Kumar Vikas Saxena’s It Makes Me Wonder Art Exhibition Captivates Art Enthusiasts
The preview party for Kumar Vikas Saxena’s Art Exhibition, titled “It Makes Me Wonder,” was filled with excitement. Kumar Vikas Saxena, who is not only the President of NGO Empowerment but also a passionate painter, has made a big impact in the art world.
Saxena’s art is all about blending dreams with reality. He paints pictures of grand buildings like monuments and temples but adds a modern twist. His goal is to make people ponder the connections between the past, present, and future.
The event was attended by many of Saxena’s friends, art enthusiasts, and fellow artists, as well as diplomats. Notable attendees included Nupur Kundu, Anadmoy Banerjee, Kanchan Chandra, Shampa Das, Curator Prayag Shukol, and Nidhi Jain.
Saxena believes that artists are always innovating. His art is influenced by his surroundings and where he lives. While he loves to showcase India’s rich history in his paintings, he also wants his art to resonate with everyone, not just a select few. With “It Makes Me Wonder,” Saxena wants to show how great our past was and how hopeful our future can be. He has made 12 paintings for this show, all done with acrylic paint on canvas. He hopes his art will make people think about how humans are all connected across time.
This show is a big deal for Saxena. He’s already had four shows of just his art before this one. His journey as an artist has been like a big, colorful blanket made with lots of hard work and love. He had some personal problems along the way, but people from all over the world have praised his art.
Saxena has been honored by important people like the Princess of Thailand and the Ministry of Culture in China. He feels grateful for the recognition of his art, which has been all about bringing different cultures together. From big art camps to living in different countries to make art, his paintings show how people from all over the world are connected.
As Saxena looks forward to the future, he wants to keep telling stories with his art. Every time he paints, he’s discovering new things about life. His paintings show the beauty and complexity of life with lots of energy and determination.
Kumar Vikas Saxena, an artist, grew up in Bareilly, a city in Uttar Pradesh, surrounded by art. His father and uncle were painters, so he learned about art from them. He also spent a lot of time in the mountains of Uttarakhand during his childhood, where he developed a deep love for nature. He finds beauty in nature’s rawness and reflects this love in his textured paintings.Artist Kumar Vikas has a strong love for earthy colors, especially yellow ochre. He believes that yellow is the most beautiful color, and almost all earthy tones make him feel a sense of belonging. These colors remind him of his hometown and the smell of its soil. Besides yellow, no other color gives him the same feeling of energy and positivity.
Kumar Vikas also has a special liking for earthy and dusty colors, but he can’t remember when they became so important to him. Maybe it’s been since he fell in love with his cultural heritage. Throughout history, yellow has been linked to rebirth and wisdom. Different cultures have used yellow in sacred and mythological symbols in various ways.
Yellow acts as a catalyst for Kumar Vikas’s original thoughts and curiosity. He longs to experience human civilization and history firsthand. When he sees historical buildings, temples, and places of worship, he wishes he could travel back in time and live among them.
The natural and rustic appearance of ancient buildings touches Kumar Vikas’s heart. The combination of earthy tones, stones, and rocks sparks new ideas in his artistic mind. It inspires him and gives him the energy to create, think, and paint.
Kumar Vikas’s journey begins at the site of a battle between the British army and fighters from Rohilkhand. Although it’s far from his hometown, the sight of the memorial excites him. The vast expanse of land and the dilapidated memorial attract him with their environment and colors. The atmosphere captivates him, leaving him feeling hypnotized.
This marked the beginning of Saxena’s journey as an artist, which has included many group shows, solo exhibitions, and international art projects. He studied painting at Kumaun University and started a non-profit organization called “Sashaktikaran” in 2002 to promote arts and crafts. Saxena’s art is inspired by grand structures and historical monuments. He admires the architects and artists behind these structures and tries to capture their essence in his paintings. He has traveled to various countries, including Sri Lanka, China, Thailand, and Europe, where he draws inspiration from different architectural styles. Saxena’s paintings reflect a blend of dream-like imagery and reality, depicting the connection between the past, present, and future. He incorporates nature into his work to convey a message about the importance of preserving the environment. His art often portrays the co-existence of human civilization and nature, showing both the beauty and destruction caused by human activities.
