22, Jul 2025
Sheena Chohan Delivers a Soul-Stirring Performance in Sant Tukaram
The first behind-the-scenes photos of Sant Tukaram have just been released — along with a wave of heartfelt reactions to Sheena Chohan’s powerful performance as Avali, which audiences are calling “magnetic, moving, and authentic.” Sheena, who plays Tukaram’s wife — the soul of the film — shared the emotional and physical intensity the role demanded. “We were shooting in the interiors of Maharashtra, Bhor, and in heavy traditional attire, but I had one goal — to make Avali honest, believable , compelling and real. Alive. Someone people would feel, not just watch, bringing my directors vision to life”, with empathy, she said.
To achieve that realism, Sheena worked closely with director Aditya Om, who insisted on simplicity and truth in every frame. “That meant no shortcuts — emotionally or physically,” she explains. “We detailed everything down — from makeup to dialogue — so that what came through was real devotion, stillness, and inner strength.” Her collaboration with Subodh Bhave, who plays Sant Tukaram, added another layer of authenticity. “Our connection had to feel lived-in,” she says. “People are saying our chemistry felt effortless — that it brought warmth, truth, and a deep emotional bond to the screen.”
As the film goes into it’s second week, Audiences and critics alike have praised Sheena’s ability to portray Avali’s grace, fire within, vulnerability and quiet strength with striking authenticity. Reviews highlight her emotional restraint , naturally real and honesty, with comments such as “Sheena Chohan is the soul of the film,” “Her presence is magnetic and deeply moving,” and “She brought stillness, strength, and devotion to life.” Her rawness, simplicity, and powerful silences have become key talking points — a performance that doesn’t scream, but breathes and lingers.
The film is rooted to Indian culture and a historical biopic that reminds us of the silent pillars behind every revolution — Avali was one of those rare women, the unwavering strength beside one who embraced a mission far greater than oneself.
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- By Neel Achary
22, Jul 2025
Galgotias University B.Tech Graduates Bag Global Roles with Packages up to INR 20 LPA
New Delhi, 22 July 2025: Reinforcing its unwavering commitment to academic excellence and industry-relevant, future-ready education, the B.Tech 2021–2025 batch of Galgotias University has achieved remarkable placement success with leading global technology firms. Three students have secured offers from Microsoft, one of the world’s most influential tech giants, while sixteen students have been placed at Fiserv, a globally recognised leader in payments and financial services technology.
The students, specialising in Computer Science, have secured competitive placement packages, including INR 20 LPA from Microsoft and INR 9.80 LPA from Fiserv.
Congratulating the students on their achievement, Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO of Galgotias University, said, “This is a proud milestone for the university that reflects the world-class education, future-ready training, and industry exposure we consistently provide our students. Galgotias has fostered a culture of excellence, empowering students to push boundaries and excel at the global level.”
Galgotias University’s consistent placement success mirrors its vision of shaping future leaders in technology and innovation. By nurturing a learning environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and adaptability, the university empowers students to confidently seize opportunities in leading global organisations.
This success is further driven by the efforts of the university’s Career Planning and Development Division (CPDD), which plays a pivotal role in enhancing students’ employability through specialised training programs, communication workshops, aptitude sessions, and mock interviews. These initiatives ensure that graduates are equipped not only with strong academic foundations but also with the professional skills needed to thrive in their careers.
Galgotias University continues to invest in multidisciplinary research, AI-driven labs, industry-aligned curricula, and global academic partnerships to prepare students for the evolving demands of the professional world.
22, Jul 2025
VESIT Signs MoU to Open Tinkerers’ Laboratory
Vivekanand Education Society Institute of Technology (VESIT) Inks MOU with Maker Bhavan Foundation and Addverb Technologies to Unveil The Tinkerers’ Laboratory
MUMBAI, India, July 22, 2025 – Vivekanand Education Society’s Institute of Technology (VESIT), The Maker Bhavan Foundation (MBF) and Addverb Technologies Limited, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of a cutting-edge MBF-Tinkerers’ Laboratory (MBF-TL) at the VESIT campus in Chembur, Mumbai. This initiative aims to foster innovation, hands-on learning, and industry-relevant skill development among students. The project is co-sponsored by MBF, providing prototyping equipment and Addverb Technologies contributing a 6-axis collaborative robotic arm (cobot).
The core purpose of this MoU is to provide students with a hands-on learning environment through the MBF-TL, enabling them to experiment and acquire practical skills. Beyond equipment donation, the initiative includes a series of workshops, courses, boot camps, and teacher training programs conducted by the LEAP (Learning Engineering by Activity through Projects) Program of the IIT Madras Incubation Cell (IITM IC). This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to enhancing STEM education and research in India.
Dr. Jayalekshmi Nair, Principal of VESIT, expressed profound gratitude for this collaboration, stating, “For the past five years, VESIT has established Tinkerers’ Labs across all departments as dedicated spaces for students to explore new ideas, implement solutions, and test their innovations — all aligned with the “Learning by Doing” philosophy. This initiative has significantly contributed to developing problem-solving abilities and fostering critical thinking among our students. The provision of extended lab hours has further empowered students to undertake extra projects and achieve remarkable success in competitions such as the Inventors Challenge, Automation Challenge, and various Hackathons. Notably, VESIT has consistently excelled in the prestigious Smart India Hackathon conducted by AICTE since its inception. We are now immensely grateful to MBF and ADDVERB for establishing the state-of-the-art MBF-Tinkerers’ Lab, which offers enhanced facilities for our students. A special thanks to ADDVERB for providing a 6-axis COBOT equipped with the latest technology. This invaluable addition will offer exceptional hands-on exposure, especially for students specializing in Automation and Robotics.”
On behalf of the Maker Bhavan Foundation, Damayanti Bhattacharya, CEO, remarked, “This collaboration is about more than just a lab—it’s about igniting a mindset of curiosity and invention. The MBF-Tinkerers’ Laboratory at VESIT will become a launchpad for students to explore, experiment, and engineer solutions for real-world challenges. We’re proud to partner with institutions that share our vision of transforming technical education through hands-on, purpose-driven learning.”
“This partnership is a significant milestone in VESIT’s journey toward experiential and industry-aligned education. The MBF-Tinkerers’ Laboratory will empower our students to go beyond textbooks and become creators, innovators, and leaders of tomorrow.” concluded, Dr. Jayalekshmi Nair, Principal of VESIT.
“At MBF, we are committed to transforming engineering education in India by promoting project-based learning. The Tinkerers’ Lab at VESIT is yet another step towards equipping students with the mindset and skills needed for the real world.” Mr Sandeep Natekar, Maker Bhavan Foundation added.
The establishment of the MBF-Tinkerers’ Laboratory marks a pivotal moment for VESIT, further solidifying its reputation as a forward-thinking institution committed to academic excellence and practical skill development. As VESIT continues to expand its collaborative initiatives and embrace emerging technologies, it is poised to strengthen its brand as a leader in technical education, producing highly competent and industry-ready graduates who will drive future advancements.
22, Jul 2025
Of Leaders and Learners: A Special Day of Responsibilities and Role Reversals at Birla C.P. Goenka International School
22nd July 2025: Some school days are not just events; they are experiences that leave lasting impressions. One such remarkable day unfolded at Birla C.P. Goenka International School, Walkeshwar, where pride, play, leadership, and learning came together in a celebration of student potential and parental connection.
The school recently hosted two heartwarming initiatives: the Investiture Ceremony for the newly elected Student Council and a unique event titled ‘Step into My Shoes – Our World, Our Way,’ where parents of Junior and Senior KG students got a chance to live a day in the shoes of their children.
The Investiture Ceremony marked the official induction of student leaders for the academic year 2025–26. With poise and pride, the Head Boy, Head Girl, House Captains, and Prefects pledged to serve with sincerity and integrity.
“A platform like this holds much more meaning than what meets the eye. At Birla C.P. Goenka International School, our vision is to nurture future leaders with a strong sense of purpose and character. Leadership begins with self-awareness and grows through service,” said Ms. Seema Kshatriya, Principal.
At the same time, the youngest learners had a special surprise planned for their parents. Dressed in white shirts, blue denims, and backpacks, parents walked into classrooms with snack boxes in hand, participating in playful activities, storytelling sessions, and art corners—reliving the joy and curiosity of early school days.
“When I saw parents walk in with bright eyes and open minds… they connected with what their children feel every day,” added Ms. Seema Kshatriya. “This event was our way of inviting parents into our world, so they could not only see but live the philosophy we believe in.”
Student leaders shared emotional and grateful reflections on their new responsibilities, while parents walked out with joyful hearts, a deeper understanding of their child’s learning journey, and renewed trust in the school’s vision.
Together, the day became a celebration of growing up and looking back, of stepping forward with responsibility and stepping in with love. At Birla C.P. Goenka International School, it was a day where leaders were born and bonds were beautifully strengthened.
22, Jul 2025
Primebook Champions Internal Mobility to Drive Career Growth and Cross-Functional Learning
New Delhi, India – July 22nd, 2025 – In a strategic move to deepen its commitment to people-first growth and cross-functional innovation, Primebook India, a pioneering Android-based full-stack laptop brand, is spotlighting the success of its internal mobility framework. At Primebook, talent isn’t confined to roles; it’s empowered to evolve.
At the heart of this policy lies a belief that when employees grow, companies thrive. Primebook’s structured yet flexible approach to internal mobility enables team members to explore new domains, take ownership of their interests, and shape their own career trajectories within the organisation.
Take the journey of MD. Dadu, who joined Primebook India two years ago as a Customer Success Representative. His growing curiosity about backend operations and supply chain logistics led him to explore beyond his original role. Supported by the leadership, Dadu transitioned into a new function as a Supply Chain Specialist. Today, he coordinates with vendors and manages logistics that directly shape the customer experience, a shift he initiated and drove.
“I joined Primebook in September 2023 as a Customer Success Executive, and by January 2025, I had transitioned into the role of Logistics Supervisor,” shared Dadu. “The journey has been full of learning and trust. Primebook recognised my curiosity and gave me the space to explore, and that’s what turned my potential into progress.”
Then there’s Raj Bhadra, who came onboard as a UI/UX Designer. Over time, his keen eye for user behaviour paired with his growing interest in product direction led him to contribute beyond design. His evolution into Product Manager reflects the value Primebook places on initiative and multidimensional growth. Today, Raj leads the product team in shaping the future of PrimeOS and the broader Primebook ecosystem.
“I started here as a UI/UX Designer. Today, I’m also leading our product team,” added Raj. “This wasn’t just a promotion, it was a shift from execution to ownership. Primebook is the kind of place where curiosity is noticed, and ambition gets room to build.”
To this, Chitranshu Mahant, Co-founder and CEO, adds, “At Primebook, we don’t believe in static roles. When someone shows initiative, we make space for it. That’s how a company evolves by letting its people lead the change. He also says, “Some of our best product and after-sales service decisions have come from people who started in completely different roles. When you remove rigid hierarchies and allow curiosity to lead, innovation becomes a team-wide habit, not a department’s responsibility.”
These stories reflect Primebook’s broader philosophy: to not just create India’s most accessible computing devices, but also to foster one of the most progressive tech workplaces. By investing in in-house capabilities and enabling lateral movement, Primebook is developing a team that’s agile, self-driven, and equipped to power India’s youth with purpose-built technology.
22, Jul 2025
IBM Introduces GET for Postgrad Admissions at Leading Indian Universities
IBM Q²D Launches the IBM Global Entrance Test (GET), for Postgraduate Programs at Top Universities across India for the 2025-26 Academic Year
Hyderabad, July 22nd, 2025: IBM Q²D launches the IBM Global Entrance Test for students who wish to pursue their postgraduate from top reputed universities across India for the academic year 2025-26.
S-VYASA Deemed-to-be University, Bengaluru, is the first university in India, to execute this model of student engagement in partnership with IBM for their MBA, MCA and M.Sc Computer Science students.
IBM Global Entrance Test (GET)
IBM Global Entrance Test (GET) by IBM Q²D serves as the gateway for admission into IBM delivered postgraduate programs in MBA, MCA and M.Sc Computer Science. Students admitted through this entrance test would be enrolled into university programs integrated with IBM’s future-ready curriculum, providing access to industry-driven content, innovation labs, IBM’s digital badges, and real-world learning experiences with projects, internship & placement opportunities.
The IBM Q²D Master’s programs will be delivered at the S-VYASA Campus located within Sattva Global City Tech Park, Kengeri, Bengaluru.
What is IBM Q²D (Quantum Quotient Decode)?
IBM Q²D is an initiative from IBM designed to integrate real-world technology training into academic frameworks. Developed by IBM’s top industry experts, Q²D combines cloud labs,
AI-powered learning platforms, immersive bootcamps, live projects, and corporate mentorship, creating an ecosystem where students learn & get opportunity to function like employees – solving real-world industry problems from the classroom.
Through this model, students gain access to:
● Learn from IBM industry experts
● Develop solutions for real-world issues
● Upskill in English communication with Cambridge’s global standards
● Graduate with hands-on technical experience, not just theoretical knowledge
● Opportunity to work on IBM Cloud environment & get experience on some of the best AI tools
● Industry-Led Projects & Internship opportunities
● Soft skills & Leadership Training
● Global Certification Pathways
● Placement Preparation & Industry Mentoring
● Awarded with IBM Global badge for successful students
Mr. Hari Rama Subramanian, Leader, Business Development & Academia Relationship at IBM, said “IBM Q2D venture is pushing the boundaries of technical skills by equipping students at different levels with state-of-the-art infrastructure tools and emerging technologies to solve real-world challenges. From basic fundamentals to advancing materials science to enhancing AIML, Data science, cybersecurity, and IOT technologies and apply them across various domains. This program fosters a global community of innovators driving the next wave of technology breakthroughs”
21, Jul 2025
Philip Morris International’s India Affiliate Recognized by The EQUAL-SALARY Foundation
IPM India receives global certification acknowledging fair pay and commitment to equal growth opportunities for its global workforce
July 21, 2025: Philip Morris International Inc.’s (PMI) India affiliate IPM India has received a global certification for its achievements in fostering a culture of fairness in the workplace – placing the company among the top organizations globally providing equal pay and growth opportunities for employees. The EQUAL-SALARY Foundation recognized PMI for paying all employees equally for equal work everywhere it operates. This marks the third time that IPM India has been awarded for its equal pay policies since 2019.
The certification demonstrates that IPM India champions equal pay and has established robust and transparent policies that empower every employee to excel and seize equal opportunities for growth and success.
This year, in addition to recognizing fair pay, the certification acknowledges IPM India’s enduring commitment to equal opportunities that enable employees to thrive, grow, and drive change, creating a culture that attracts the best talent.
Commenting on the recognition, Navaneel Kar, Managing Director, IPM India said, “We are honoured to receive the recognition from EQUAL-SALARY Foundation. The certification is a testament to our dedication to equality and fairness- fostering a collaborative and employee centric workplace. We believe organizations with diverse teams and equitable cultures enable innovation & meaningful transformation. We are committed to providing an environment, where our people are rewarded fairly and empowered to reach their full potential, connecting to their purpose, driving positive change.”
“Providing fair and equal remuneration to men and women is our top priority”, added Kingshuk Das, Director, People & Culture, IPM India. “Building talent is fundamental to business success and we are committed to providing the right tools and equal opportunities that supports employees to cocreate their own path. At IPM India, we are constantly adopting best practices where personal situations are understood, differences have value and all people are treated with equity and respect.”
Lisa Rubli, co-CEO of the EQUAL-SALARY Foundation, commented, “PMI’s third global EQUAL-SALARY certification is a landmark achievement. It represents more than a commitment to equal pay for equal work between women and men. It reflects a deep, ongoing effort to build fairness and equal opportunity into every stage of the employee experience. Through rigorous salary analysis and qualitative audits, PMI has demonstrated a culture of openness, accountability, and continuous improvement. This recertification is not only a recognition of what has been achieved for over 83,000 PMI employees around the world, it is a call to the business world to do more.”
Valid for three years, the Equal Pay and Opportunities certification provides independent, third-party verification that IPM India pays all employees fairly and objectively for the same job or a job of equal value. The EQUAL-SALARY Foundation has certified companies in 90 countries, involving almost half a million employees.
PMI has been featured among top 10 companies in the WSJ Management Top 250 Annual Company Ranking. In addition to being recognized by the EQUAL-SALARY Foundation, IPM India has received Great Place to Work certification for four consecutive years and Top Employer recognition for five consecutive years.
21, Jul 2025
DPS Lava Nagpur Hosts Investiture & Interact Club Installation Ceremony
Lava Nagpur, 21st July 2025– Delhi Public School Lava Nagpur hosted its Investiture Ceremony and Interact Rotary Club Installation at Nakshatra Hall, honouring student leadership and service to the community.
The newly elected School Council (2025–26) was ceremoniously badged and presented with flags, symbolising the mantle of responsibility. Members of the Interact Club were also pinned with badges, and both bodies solemnly took their oaths to uphold the values of integrity, service, and leadership.
The occasion was graced by distinguished Rotarians: Past President Rotarian Jyotika Kapoor (Chief Guest), President Rotarian Vinay Dara, Treasurer Rotarian Sumit Choithani, Youth Services Director Rotarian Nitin Jeswani, ID Mrs. Arundhati Sathe, Vocational Services Director Dr. Khushboo Murarka, and PRO VC Mr. Gautam Rajgharia. Also in attendance were Director–Media & Communication Mrs. Sanjana Rajgarhia, Principal Dr. Anupama Sagdeo, Vice Principal Mr. Atul Deo, along with proud parents and teachers.
The Guests in their address inspired students to lead with humility and serve with dedication. The ceremony concluded with the national anthem, echoing unity and pride.
21, Jul 2025
IDBI Bank Limited – Financial Results for Q1 of FY 2026
Operating Performance for Q1 of FY 2026
- Net Profit improved by 17% in Q1-2026 to ₹2,007 crore as against net profit of ₹1,719 crore in Q1-2025.
- Operating profit improved by 13% in Q1-2026 to ₹2,354 crore as against ₹2,076 crore in Q1-2025.
- Net Interest Income stood at ₹3,166 crore in Q1-2026 as against ₹3,233 crore in Q1-2025.
- Net Interest Margin (NIM) stood at 3.68% in Q1-2026 as compared to 4.18% in Q1-2025.
- Return on Assets (ROA) improved by 18 bps to 2.01% in Q1-2026 as compared to 1.83% for Q1-2025
- Cost of Deposit stood at 4.84% in Q1-2026 as compared to 4.58% in Q1-2025.
- Cost of Funds stood at 4.98% in Q1-2026 as compared to 4.81% in Q1-2025.
- Return on Equity (ROE) stood at 17.91%.
- Cost to Income Ratio stood at 48.86%.
Business Growth
- Total Deposits increased to ₹2,96,868 crore as on June 30, 2025 as against ₹2,77,548 crore as on June 30, 2024 registering a growth of 7% YoY.
- CASA stood at ₹1,32,553 crore and CASA ratio stood at 44.65% as on June 30, 2025. As on June 30, 2024 total CASA and CASA ratio were at ₹1,34,810 crore and 48.57%.
- Net advances stood at ₹2,11,907 crore as on June 30, 2025 as against ₹1,94,026 crore as on June 30, 2024 registering a growth of 9% YoY.
- The composition of corporate v/s retail in gross advances portfolio stood at 30:70 as on June 30, 2025.
Asset Quality
- Gross NPA ratio improved to 2.93% as on June 30, 2025 as against 3.87% as on June 30, 2024.
- Net NPA ratio improved to 0.21% as on June 30, 2025 as against 0.23% as on June 30, 2024.
- Provision Coverage Ratio (including Technical Write-Offs) stood at 99.31% as on June 30, 2025 from 99.34% as on June 30, 2024.
Capital Position
- Tier 1 capital improved to 23.71% as on June 30, 2025 as against 20.26% as on June 30, 2024.
- CRAR improved to 25.39% as on June 30, 2025 as against 22.42% as on June 30, 2024.
- Risk Weighted Assets (RWA) stood at ₹1,92,965 crore as on June 30, 2025 as against ₹1,77,755 crore as on June 30, 2024.
Significant Developments
- IDBI Bank was conferred with the Bhamashah Award from the State of Rajasthan for its CSR contributions in the field of education.
- IDBI Bank was awarded for the OCEN – GeM (Government e Marketplace) Sahay 2.0 initiative at Finnoviti 2025.
- IDBI Bank was awarded the ‘Best Mobile Banking Service of the Year 2025’ by Synnex India.
- IDBI Bank and the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC) in Thiruvananthapuram signed an MoU for strengthening cancer treatment with upgraded equipments.
21, Jul 2025
India-GCC Designers Collaborate to Create Jewellery for SAJEX 2025
21st July 2025, Mumbai: GJEPC, the apex body of gem & jewellery trade in India, organized the Exporter and GCC Designers’ Workshop at the Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC, SEEPZ in Mumbai on 17th July. The event marked a key milestone in the lead-up to SAJEX (Saudi Arabia Jewellery Exposition), GJEPC’s first-ever show in Saudi Arabia, scheduled from 11th to 13th September 2025 at the Jeddah Superdome.
The workshop was inaugurated by Mr. Milan Chokshi, Chairman, Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IIGJ) Mumbai and Mr. Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC, along with distinguished designers and industry stakeholders. A special welcome was extended to Ms. Mahima Varma and Mr. Tarun Jain, Founders of the World Academy of Design, Dubai, who partnered with GJEPC to bring six leading GCC-based designers to collaborate with Indian manufacturers.
These six designers — Nadiyah Ghurmullah Alghamdi, Nouf Abdulaziz Sehli, Haifa Khaled Saeed Gathnan Alhadhrami, Fahima Saif Rashed Bakhit Alfalasi, Abeer Hussein Othman Yahya, and Fatimah Mohammed A Alsofi — travelled to Mumbai for this creative workshop focused on jewellery design trends in Saudi Arabia and GCC markets. They shared valuable insights and interacted closely with a select group of Indian exporters.
Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Sabyasachi Ray expressed his optimism about the initiative: “This design workshop marks a crucial step in deepening India’s engagement with the fast-evolving Saudi jewellery market. With Saudi’s jewellery market expected to grow from $4.5 billion to $8.5 billion by 2030, this is a timely initiative. The collaboration between Indian manufacturers and GCC-based designers will help create region-specific collections that reflect Saudi sensibilities while showcasing India’s manufacturing strength. SAJEX 2025 is not just an India show; it’s envisioned as a world jewellery show, and this workshop lays the foundation for its long-term success. Saudi has a young, affluent, and globally minded audience looking for style and substance — and India is perfectly poised to meet that demand.”
Adding to the sentiment, Mr. Milan Chokshi highlighted the broader design evolution taking place. “This initiative has the potential to spark something truly exciting in design. Indian jewellery design has evolved from referencing catalogues to creating original, contemporary pieces rooted in Indian heritage but made for the world. Today, as the Middle East undergoes its own transformation, this is a chance for GCC designers to draw from their own cultural identity and collaborate with Indian manufacturers to build something unique and globally relevant. The future belongs to original design — and this is where it begins.”
Bringing in the perspective of cross-cultural collaboration, Mr. Tarun Jain underlined the value of the exchange: “This collaboration is more than just a design exercise — it’s about building a communication bridge between Indian manufacturers and the evolving Gulf market. The designers we’ve brought in are visionaries who understand not only current trends but also future market demands. They’ll help manufacturers align their capabilities with regional preferences and guide them in communicating effectively with buyers at SAJEX. This mutual exchange of knowledge and creativity will lay the groundwork for long-term success in the GCC.”
Mahima Verma offered a detailed overview of consumer behaviour across the GCC region.
With this initiative, GJEPC is laying the groundwork for stronger ties between India and the Gulf. By bringing together design talent from both regions, the workshop is encouraging fresh ideas, meaningful partnerships, and jewellery that resonates with today’s global consumer. It’s a step towards building collections that not only reflect local tastes but also stand out on the international stage — just in time for the Council’s much-anticipated debut in Saudi Arabia with SAJEX 2025.
