Category Archives: Business

IIM Sambalpur Hosts IMPeC 2025 on Digitalization, Entrepreneurship & Sustainability

National, 1st February 2025; IIM Sambalpur, one of the premier management institutions, hosted the much-awaited annual flagship conference titled, “International Management Perspectives Conference (IMPeC) 2025” with the theme “Digitalization, Entrepreneurship and Sustainability” at its campus. Aligning with the vision of the Viksit Bharat@47 – Transforming the nation’s future, IIM Sambalpur through IMPeC 2025 served as a platform for thought leadership and knowledge exchange researchers, eminent academicians, research scholars, and students to exchange ideas and to communicate and discuss research findings leading to new advances in Management Science. While reinforcing the country’s commitment towards digitalization, sustainability, and entrepreneurship, the three-day conference aims to shape the future of management education, research, and policy-making in the nation by facilitating high-quality research that specifically addresses emerging topics in these areas. Moreover, the event also created opportunities for participants to disseminate research ideas and explore possible scholarly collaborations and networking. More than 500 papers were presented during the conference both online and offline.

Keshav Rao, Director (Personnel), Mahanadi Coalfields Limited graced the occasion as the Chief Guest while Pankaj K Verma, Chief Sustainability Officer, Adani Green Energy was present as the keynote speaker, Praveen Kumar Verma, CEO, TATA Power Western Odisha Ltd and Prof. Mrinal Chatterjee, Regional Director, IIMCwere present as the guests of honor; and during the inauguration ceremony. Prof Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, along with Dr. Arvind Sahay, Director, MDI Gurgaon; Dr. Shreepad Karmalkar, Director, IIT Bhubaneswar and Dr. Pawan Kumar Singh, Director, IIM Tiruchirappalli were present in the panel discussions.

Prof Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, said, As AI rewrites the definition of intelligence, foundational principles of theory and the research. Should we place our trust in the models or should we trust the vast ocean of data? Business and innovation are positioned at the cusp of a paradigm curve, with the next 75 years witnessing the rise of agile startups over the corporate giants. As technology assumes more intellectual properties, humanity has to lose not its essence, but rather is challenged to mold change rather than adapt to it.”

Prof Jaiswal further shared, “At IIM Sambalpur, we are at the forefront of five strategic initiatives of national importance, and we keep working on gender diversity and the empowerment of women. Moreover, we are working towards the positioning of local cities as global economic hubs, reimagining educational methodologies, fostering global academic and industry collaborations, and defining ‘Brand India’ as a force in the global knowledge economy. This is aligned with the vision for Viksit Bharat 2047- the vision for growth that is both inclusive and sustainable, while exerting intellectual leadership on the world stage. We look to shape a future where India becomes a leader in academia, industry, and socio-economic development through interdisciplinary research, policy-driven engagement, and innovation.”

Shri Keshav Rao, Director (Personnel), Mahanadi Coalfields Limited, said, “Digitalization, entrepreneurship, and sustainability are the cornerstones of India’s economic and societal transformation. Our nation’s progress in digital innovation has positioned it as a global leader in financial technology, while the entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to drive groundbreaking innovations and wealth creation. However, sustainability remains a critical challenge that requires a careful balance between industrial growth and environmental responsibility.” He further added, “Institutions like IIM Sambalpur play a pivotal role in fostering intellectual discourse, industry-academia collaboration, and policy-driven solutions to address these transformative challenges. By integrating technology, entrepreneurship, and sustainable business practices, we can shape an inclusive and resilient future for India, contributing to the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
During the panel discussions, Prof Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, along with Dr. Arvind Sahay, Director, MDI Gurgaon; Dr. Shreepad Karmalkar, Director, IIT Bhubaneswar and Dr. Pawan Kumar Singh, Director, IIM Tiruchirappalli explored the critical role of management institutions in shaping future leaders centered around the theme “B-School Leaders’ Dilemma: Where Should the Emphasis be in the Context of Digitalization, Entrepreneurship, and Sustainability?”. In the broader vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, the key requirement is skilled human capital, where academia can significantly contribute by nurturing capable managers and leaders to spearhead these three transformative themes.
The conference also featured various plenary sessions, panel discussions, and paper presentations across various domains including Challenges and opportunities in the future of work, Strategies for climate resilience and stakeholder engagement, Leveraging India’s demographic dividend for economic growth and guiding scholars on publishing and academic research excellence.

A special JMP Workshop on Statistical Discovery was also conducted by Dr. Muralidhara Anandamurthy, Head – Global Academic Ambassador, JMP (SAS).

The even witnessed participation from IITs, IIMs, regional colleges, and international institutions across online and offline modes. Among IITs, four institutions, including IIT Indore, IIT Roorkee, IIT Kharagpur, and IIT Bombay, participated online, while three, including IIT Dhanbad, IIT Roorkee, and IIT Delhi, took part offline. Similarly, four IIMs—Indore, Nagpur, Sambalpur, and Raipur—joined online, while IIM Sambalpur, IIM Sirmaur, IIM Calcutta, and IIM Ranchi participated offline. Regional colleges had significant involvement, with 119 participating online and 129 offline. Internationally, three institutions, including researchers from Bremen (Germany), Twilio (USA), and Fatima College of Health Sciences (UAE), contributed online, while the Ministry of Manpower (Indonesia) participated offline.

Kumortuli Artisans Shape Prachi Bansal’s Transformation in Shrimad Ramayan

Mumbai, January 31, 2025: Sony SAB’s Shrimad Ramayan continues to captivate audiences with its narration of the epic tale of Lord Ram (Sujay Reu) and Sita (Prachi Bansal). Recently, the show delivered a powerful moment where Sita transformed into the fierce Maa Kali to save Lord Ram from Sahastramukh Raavan (Praneet Bhatt). This dramatic scene left viewers in awe, and the story of creating Maa Kali’s iconic look is just as compelling.

Inspired by the artistry of Kumortuli, Kolkata’s famed hub for crafting idols, immense effort went into ensuring authenticity. A skilled makeup artist traveled from Kolkata to the set at Umbergaon to design Prachi’s striking transformation, while exquisite jewelry pieces, including mund malas and chand males, were shipped within 48 hours. To further elevate the look, artisans from Kumortuli themselves arrived in Umbergaon to ensure every detail was perfect, from the ornaments to Maa Kali’s symbolic features.

Speaking about the experience, Prachi Bansal shared, “I am overwhelmed by the level of detailing that has gone into my look as Kaali Maa. Every small detail, from the makeup which went on for 4-5 hours, to the jewelry and the props, everything has been done meticulously and the Kumortuli artisans added a lot of their influence. Bringing Maa Kali to life on-screen was a divine journey, and I truly felt her power resonate within me during the process of this powerful transformation.”

Hansa Research Secures ISO Certifications, Reaffirms Global Standards in Quality and Security

Mumbai, 31st January, 2025: Hansa Research Group, a wholly-owned subsidiary of R K SWAMY Ltd., has received ISO 9001:2015 certification for quality management, ISO/IEC 27001:2022 for information security, and ISO 20252:2019 for research project management across its offices. These certifications confirm the company’s adherence to global standards and reliable processes. For clients, this translates into greater confidence in the services provided, with enhanced operational efficiency, information security, and high-quality outcomes.

The ISO 9001:2015 certification is the globally recognized benchmark for quality management. It ensures the company consistently maintains standards, complies with regulations, and delivers exceptional services, reinforcing its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.

The ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification is the leading standard for Information Security Management Systems. This reflects the company’s commitment to safeguarding customer data, enhancing cybersecurity practices, and mitigating risks associated with unauthorized access and cyber threats.

The ISO 20252:2019 certification is the global standard for market, opinion, and social research, including insights and data analytics. This ensures the company’s processes are transparent, consistent, and error-free, delivering reliable, high-quality outcomes for clients.

Praveen Nijhara, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Hansa Research Group, said, “These certifications are a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional services to our clients, in line with international standards and our growth strategy.”

Experience the Future of Fashion: Vero Moda’s Revamped Store Opens at Palladium Mall, Mumbai

Mumbai, India – 31st January: VERO MODA, one of the leading western wear fashion brands in India, is setting a new standard in retail by revamping the store at Palladium Mall, Mumbai. Designed to redefine the customer journey, the store spanning across 2,275 sq. ft. offers a seamless blend of aesthetics, functionality, and interaction.

The newly revamped store boasts an innovative layout crafted to captivate and immerse customers in a truly elevated shopping experience. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a dynamic LED screen showcasing captivating brand stories and product highlights, setting the stage for a seamless journey. The store’s interior features warm, textured corrugated walls and clay-finished display tables that add depth and character, complemented by sleek stainless-steel matte finishes and light-tone facades that evoke a refined, contemporary allure. Thoughtfully curated displays and distinctive design elements create a harmonious blend of style and functionality, encouraging exploration and interaction. This customer-focused approach enhances the store’s premium appeal, transforming the space into a truly immersive shopping destination.

The store’s design integrates sustainable materials like clay finishes and energy-efficient LED lighting, promoting eco-friendly practices while enhancing the ambiance. Its modular layout ensures future adaptability, and the use of low-maintenance materials supports long-term sustainability, creating a space that is both innovative and environmentally conscious.

Savor the Flavor: A Foodie’s Guide to Eating Healthy Without Sacrificing Taste

Blabber: For those seeking the comforting warmth of a bowl of soup, Blabber offers a delightful selection of nourishing and flavorful options. The Quinoa & Avocado Salad is a light and refreshing choice, a perfect accompaniment to the hearty Asparagus & Potato Soup, a creamy and comforting delight ideal for a chilly evening.

The Pantry: For the health-conscious foodie, The Pantry offers a delightful array of healthy and delicious options. Indulge in their signature Guilt Free Pizza, featuring a vegan delight with a gluten-free flourless cauliflower pizza base topped with tomato sauce, reduced-fat cheese, mushrooms, roasted garlic, and arugula. For those seeking a flavorful twist, try the Arabian Rooster Pizza, featuring zataar-infused grilled chicken, Le Farme Lofabu, and homemade ricotta. The Keto Pesto Gnocchi is a must-try, featuring keto creamy pesto sauce and herbed ricotta gnocchi with grilled peppers and broccoli. The Keto Fit Fab Bowl, with turmeric cottage cheese, scrambled, sliced avocados, broccoli, and red peppers served with almond crips, is a perfect option for a light and nutritious meal. And for a sweet treat, don’t miss their decadent yet guilt-free Gluten Free Cheesecake. The Pantry proves that healthy eating can be incredibly delicious and satisfying.

Si Nonna’s: Experience the authentic flavours of Italy at Si Nonna’s, where healthy eating meets delicious dining. Savour the Casareccia, a classic salad dish featuring a medley of black olives, plump tomatoes, and aged Parmesan cheese. This wholesome combination offers a burst of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. For those seeking heartier options, indulge in the succulent Contadina in Roasted Chicken or the flavorful Roasted Pork Bacon, both served with a generous portion of the same delectable medley of black olives, tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, arugula, sesame seeds, balsamic vinegar, and EVOO. Si Nonna’s offers a true taste of Italy, showcasing the simplicity and elegance of classic Italian cuisine while prioritizing wholesome ingredients.

Two Gud Sisters: Two Gud Sisters offers a unique blend of flavours, a culinary fusion that will tantalize your taste buds. The Kyoto Klear Soup, a refreshing and revitalizing broth, is a perfect way to cleanse the palate and nourish the body. And for a delightful combination of sweet and savoury, the Fennel & Orange Salad is a must-try, a vibrant and refreshing dish that showcases the harmonious interplay of flavours.

The Corrner Room: For those seeking an elevated dining experience, The Corrner Room offers a sophisticated and refined culinary journey. The Beetroot Chevre Salad is a work of art, a vibrant and visually stunning dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. For a truly elegant and flavorful experience, the Tomato Quinoa Soup is a must-try, a sophisticated and refined dish that showcases the culinary artistry of the chef.

Eco-Chic Romance: Tipai Offers the Ideal Green Retreat This Valentine’s Day

This Valentine’s Day, escape to Tipai, an exclusive wildlife sanctuary nestled in the serene Tipeshwar Forest of Maharashtra. A perfect blend of romantic luxury and eco-conscious living, Tipai offers a truly unique and holistic experience for couples seeking a getaway that celebrates both nature and well-being. Spanning 34 acres on the edge of the Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary, Tipai promises a haven of peace and indulgence. Luxurious accommodations, private bio-pool villas with outdoor bathrooms and a commitment to sustainability in all its offerings. Tipai is the ultimate destination for a romantic retreat that urges you to reconnect amidst nature.Built on the pillars of sustainable design, responsible tourism, and wellness, Tipai offers a personalized approach to each guest. This Valentine’s Day Tipai offers The Perfect 3 Day, 2-Night Valentine’s Day Staycation for Couples looking for an enchanting getaway for a celebration of love, offering a memorable stay filled with romance, adventure, and luxury

The journey begins with a warm and inviting welcome on the open deck, where the serene view of a blooming lotus pool sets the stage for an unforgettable retreat. Indulge in a delectable Maharashtrian Thali at Perch, their all-day dining restaurant for lunch followed by a scenic sunset trail or an immersive nature walk through the captivating Tipeshwar Forest. For those with an appreciation for wildlife, a bird-watching trail offers a rare opportunity to witness a diverse range of avian species. In the evening, delight in an exquisite dining experience at Talaabwali, where award winning Chef Amninder Sandhu presents a selection of comforting Indian delicacies, including succulent kebabs, fragrant biryanis, and the rich, slow-cooked Dum Biryani. Begin your day with a thrilling guided safari to spot the elusive Talaabwali tigress and explore the sanctuary’s vast biodiversity. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on your villa’s private veranda, cocooned by nature. Unwind with a rejuvenating spa session, followed by a DIY pizza-making experience with fresh garden produce. Take a romantic lakeside stroll for a sunset picnic, set against the serene backdrop and end the day with a curated degustation experience at Palaash, showcasing Chef Amninder’s culinary artistry and served by locally trained women from neighbouring communities. For an extra touch, enjoy a breakfast in bed with eco-friendly, nature-inspired decorations. Tipai’s thoughtful, personalized touches ensure a luxurious, mindful Valentine’s Day getaway, filled with romance, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.

Stay Active and Energized: COLORS by Rupa Unveils DRY FIT Collection

India, 31st January 2025 – COLORS by Rupa, a trusted name in quality and innovation under the esteemed Rupa & Company Limited, has embarked on a journey to redefine the boundaries of athleisure wear with the newly launched DRY FIT Collection. This masterpiece within the dynamic ‘PLAYSURE’ range is designed to seamlessly blend comfort, performance, and style, transforming everyday moments into an experience.

The DRY FIT Collection is engineered for versatility, catering to the active lifestyle of today’s individuals. Imagine a wardrobe that effortlessly transitions from intense workouts to relaxed strolls. Crafted with advanced Polyester fabric, elastane-based materials, and strategically placed mesh panels, it offers exceptional stretchability, breathability, and a feather-light feel. The ergonomically engineered fabrics are designed to provide a flawless fit, effortlessly moving with your body.

The collection offers the perfect blend of comfort and breathability, designed with ergonomics in mind to ensure superior performance. Catering to both men and women, it features a stylish and vibrant line-up, including women’s round neck t-shirts, polo t-shirts, tank tops, leggings, and cycling shorts, as well as men’s raglan sleeve round neck t-shirts, polo t-shirts, tank tops, track pants, joggers, and shorts. Beyond functionality, the collection’s vivid spectrum of colors brings vibrancy and individuality, making each piece more than just apparel—it’s a bold statement of style. Whether you’re breaking a sweat at the gym or soaking in the tranquillity of nature, this collection is a seamless fusion of playfulness and leisure.

Sharing his thoughts on the launch, Mr. Mukesh Agarwal, Director, Rupa & Company Limited, says “DRY FIT Collection from Colors by Rupa blends innovative design with vibrant aesthetics to meet the evolving needs of today’s dynamic consumers. We are confident that this collection will inspire people to embrace both functionality and leisure with unmatched style.”

Apexon Recognized as a Leader in Generative AI and Advanced Analytics Services by ISG Provider LensTM

Ahmedabad, India: January 31, 2025: Apexon, a digital-first technology services company, today announced that it has been named a Leader in the 2024 ISG Provider Lens™ Generative AI (GenAI) Services and Advanced Analytics and AI Services reports. ISG evaluated over 75 service providers in this assessment, recognizing Apexon’s expertise in delivering AI-powered solutions, driving innovation and engineering intelligence into platform development, to build intelligent enterprises.

Generative AI Services Report

ISG positioned Apexon as a Leader in the Strategy & Consulting Services and Development & Deployment Services quadrants.

Apexon’s strengths highlighted in the report include:

• Providing strategic advisory to ensure scalable Generative AI adoption with minimal disruption.
• Accelerating AI deployment with tailored pilots and cloud-native integrations for frictionless deployments.
• Delivering rapid ROI with a speed-to-value approach and measurable outcomes.
• Leveraging partnerships and advanced accelerators to create scalable, high-performance applications.
• Empowering enterprises to unlock measurable value rapidly with tailored GenAI solutions, focusing on realistic ROI, robust governance, and continuous innovation to confidently scale AI initiatives while driving impactful business outcomes.
• Apexon’s innovative Genysys platform, customized offerings, and strong partnerships ensure seamless deployment and continuous optimization, enabling businesses to drive operational efficiency and explore new growth opportunities.

Advanced Analytics and AI Services Report

ISG positioned Apexon as a Leader in the quadrants for Data Science and AI Services, Data Modernization Services, and Advanced BI and Reporting Modernization Services, recognizing the company’s strengths in:

• Empowering organizations with real-time insights, compliance-driven AI solutions, and predictive analytics through customizable frameworks.
• Enabling seamless data management, enhanced governance, and AI-driven transformation for organizations to stay ahead of the curve.
• Delivering real-time insights with intuitive, user-centric dashboards and storytelling techniques that transform data into actionable business outcomes.
• Integrating deep industry knowledge with AI-driven solutions and proprietary frameworks to address complex data challenges and deliver impactful business outcomes.
• Combining advanced visualizations, user-centric design, interactive reporting, and industry-specific expertise to help organizations drive meaningful business outcomes through data solutions.

“Our leadership positions in key data and AI-focused ISG reports reaffirm our role as a trusted partner in engineering intelligent enterprises,” said Sriniketh Chakravarthi, Chief Executive Officer, Apexon. “This recognition validates our strategic investments in transformative platforms, unlocking the full potential of Generative AI to drive tailored content, enhance operational efficiency, and foster deeper engagement. We are equally proud that our expertise in seamless data management, robust governance, and AI-driven transformation has been highlighted as a strength.”

“Apexon defines itself as a thought leader in the generative AI space, integrating innovation, industry insight, and scalable solutions into its offerings,” said Gowtham Kumar Sampath, Principal Analyst, ISG. “Through platforms like Genysys and strong collaborations with leading technology providers, they are pioneering new pathways for organizations to harness data as a strategic asset. This forward-focused approach underscores their role in driving the next wave of AI-driven transformation.”

A New Era Begins: Le Belvedere Rebranded as XO & Mi at Le Meridien New Delhi

New Delhi, 31 January 2025: XO & Mi @Le Belvedere, the highly anticipated restaurant at Le Meridien New Delhi, is all set to redefine the dining experience, with the creative solutions of Secret Ingredient, India’s leading food and hospitality consultancy. XO & Mi @Le Belvedere is a modern take on the former Le Belvedere restaurant, which was known for its Szechuan Chinese cuisine. It reimagines the legendary restaurant, blending its rich legacy with a bold, modern vision that promises to captivate culinary enthusiasts.

Secret Ingredient has played an instrumental role in bringing XO & Mi @Le Belvedere to life through a comprehensive approach encompassing research, concept development, design collaboration, and operational planning. Starting with extensive internal research and a feasibility study, Secret Ingredient conducted a deep dive into the target audience, local demographics and market trends. This strategic analysis ensured a distinctive positioning for the restaurant, crafting a dining experience that embodies the dynamic essence of Asia’s street food culture- elevated with a modern and sophisticated touch.

The creative direction of XO & Mi @Le Belvedere was carefully crafted with a compelling brand narrative, positioning and a distinctive food and bar identity. Secret Ingredient assisted in vendor partnerships, training staff and conducted food and beverage trials to ensure quality and consistency. Inspired by the lively food markets of South East Asia, the restaurant’s menu seamlessly fuses authentic flavours with innovation to offer a sensory adventure that transforms dining into a memorable experience. The menu is carefully curated into distinctive sections, each offering a unique culinary experience. The Izakaya Style selection presents an array of playful small plates—both hot and cold—perfectly suited for cocktail pairings. The Curry House and Noodle Cart bring comforting, authentic flavours to the table, while the Tempura & Katsu Shop showcases Japan’s mastery of delicate deep-frying, delivering crispy, golden perfection.

The addition of unique features like the Saké Bar—a curated centrepiece offering interactive customization of glassware and serving temperatures—further elevates the journey, while The Permit Room speakeasy invites guests to enjoy colonial-inspired charm paired into two innovative cocktail categories – Legends of the Orient celebrating Southeast Asian mythology with bold, imaginative drinks like the “Wukong,” and the other being – Take a Bite! which pairs cocktails with nibbles crafted from their key ingredients, such as the Fortune Cookie—a Japanese whiskey and miso caramel concoction served with an actual fortune cookie. Together, these elements position XO & Mi @ Le Belvedere as a premium destination where tradition inspires innovation and culture meets creativity.

“We are incredibly proud to be part of the XO & Mi @Le Belvedere journey, a concept that masterfully blends innovation with authenticity,” said Sid Mathur, Founder of Secret Ingredient. “Perched atop one of Delhi’s most iconic rooftop locations, XO & Mi offers a breath-taking setting that enhances the dining experience. It was a pleasure collaborating with the incredible team at Le Meridien to bring this vision to life. At Secret Ingredient, our mission is to help brands share their unique stories through exceptional dining experiences, and XO & Mi embodies that vision. From concept to execution, every detail has been carefully crafted to deliver guests an unforgettable culinary adventure. From interior mood boards to the development of the brand touchpoints, every element was meticulously curated to create an unforgettable experience. Secret Ingredient worked closely with designers to conceptualize and bring to life this vision, ensuring every detail contributes to the immersive experience.”

Secret Ingredient also played a pivotal role in optimizing operational efficiency, refining kitchen layouts, and selecting high-performance equipment to meet regulatory standards. Additionally, they also contributed to the core structure and hiring process, defining the ideal team requirements and aiding in the recruitment of top-tier culinary talent, including sous chefs, CDPs, and mixologists.

 With the aim of bringing creative and impactful solutions, Secret Ingredient provided XO & Mi @Le Belvedere with a strategic roadmap from concept to execution. Their comprehensive approach, industry expertise, and attention to detail have been instrumental in crafting a standout dining destination within Le Meridien New Delhi.

Princess Gauravi Kumari Attends ARTISAN AWARDS 2025

31 January 2025, National: The much-anticipated Artisan Awards 2025 concluded on a grand note, with Princess GauraviKumari gracing the occasion as the esteemed chief guest. Known for her patronage of art and culture, Princess GauraviKumari presented the awards to the winners, lauding their ingenuity and dedication to preserving Indian craftsmanship and design.

The 8th edition of The Artisan Award was hosted by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC)powered by GIA India, in association with the World Gold Council.

The presence of Princess GauraviKumari added a regal touch to the celebration, making it a night to remember for the artists, industry stalwarts, and dignitaries in attendance.

As the Artisan Jewellery Design Awards continue to spotlight the best of India’s craftsmanship, this year’s finale set a new benchmark in creativity, elegance, and royal patronage. She was joined on stage by Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. KiritBhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. Sriram Natarajan, Managing Director, GIA India; Mr. Sachin Jain, Regional CEO, India, World Gold Council; Mr Milan Chokshi, Convener, Promotions & Marketing, GJEPC; and Mr. Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director, GJEPC.

The event celebrated the finest expressions of Indian craftsmanship under this year’s theme, “Indian Crafts Reimagined,” which received over 630 entries.

In the diverse realm of Indian crafts, the 2025 Artisan Awards highlighted the interconnected nature of regional artistry within the country. Each participant drew inspiration from India’s rich heritage, blending traditional techniques with innovative interpretations. This thoughtful fusion ensured that age-old crafts not only retained their cultural significance but also found a meaningful place in modern design narratives.
The viewing gallery of the 20 finalists from the 8th Artisan Awards, themed Indian Crafts Reimagined, was open at JWCC. The showcased designs blended heritage crafts with innovation, celebrating ancient traditions while ensuring their modern relevance.

A visibly impressed Princess Gauravi Kumari of Jaipur remarked, “All the winning jewellery designs showcased at GJEPC’s Artisan Awards innovatively incorporated traditional art and craft. I believe that traditional crafts will always be relevant to today’s generation as long as designers introduce fresh perspectives and new twists while utilising modern silhouettes that appeal to global audiences. The new-age young consumer is moving from fast fashion to slow luxury. Gen-Next will get interested if we shift the narrative from the brand or product to the karigar (artisan) – the storytelling of their creative vision and interpretation is always compelling.”

Talking about jewellery making and craftsmanship as a legacy passed on from generation to generation, Princess Gauravi said, “Global connoisseurs recognise that Indian craft techniques have been passed on from one generation to another, just like the heritage legacy brands of Europe. Some of the best global designers have learnt and educated themselves about Indian craftsmanship and then used their creativity to bring innovation and relevance. My great-grandfather,Maharaja Man Singh II, wanted to see Jaipur as a global centre of design, art, and crafts. I want to carry forward this legacy and empower craftsmen who defy challenges and create with a positive attitude.”

Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC, remarked, “The Artisan Awards aims to spotlight India’s unparalleled jewellery craftsmanship. This year’s theme, ‘Indian Crafts, Reimagined’, compelled participants to employ age-old crafts and design them through a contemporary lens, producing pieces that transcend cultural boundaries across the globe.

“Designing is one of the most sought-after skill sets in the industry and plays a pivotal role in generating value addition. For the sector to advance beyond retail, it is essential to enhance and expand design capabilities. The Artisan Awards serves as a platform to harness design talent at the grassroots level, nurturing India’s raw potential while driving innovation and creativity.

“At GJEPC, we also invest in structured skill development through our training institutes to ensure the industry’s sustained progress. Additionally, we strive to preserve and promote local crafts like the timeless jadau and meenakari of Jaipur and Benares, the intricate filigree of the East, and the temple jewellery of the South.

“I invite industry stakeholders such as the World Gold Council, PGI, and De Beers to collaborate with GJEPC in marketing and popularising India’s unique jewellery crafts on the global stage.”

Mr. Sachin Jain, Regional CEO, India, World Gold Council: “GJEPC’s Artisan Awards is a true testament of creativity and royalty in design capital. We at the World Gold Council are partnering with GJEPC to crown India as the jewellery hub of the world. It’s time for us to take Indian creativity and designs to the world. We appreciate the kalakaari(artistry) of India and will work with GJEPC to uplift the pristine status and impeccable standards of our craftsmanship. The Artisan Awards are a great celebration of Indian artistry. Every piece of gold jewellery crafted by these artisans is a testament to their dedication, skill, and artistic vision. The Awards serve as a platform to recognise their achievements and inspire future generations to appreciate and continue the legacy of gold jewellery artistry.”

Mr. Milan Chokshi, Convener, Promotion & Marketing, GJEPC adds, “The theme ‘Indian Crafts, Reimagined’ successfully inspired participants to leverage their creativity and design jewellery that seamlessly integrates global aesthetics with the essence of Indian craftsmanship. Through this journey, we witnessed exceptional pieces that not only preserved ancient crafts but also redefined their relevance for today’s discerning audience. The innovative interpretations highlighted the rich heritage of Indian techniques, demonstrating how our traditional craftsmanship remains relevant and continues to captivate younger generations in today’s dynamic world.”

The entries underwent a thorough scrutiny by a distinguished jury comprising Dr.UshaBalakrishnan, Eminent Jewellery Historian; Mr. Jay Sagar, Jewellery Specialist at AstaGuru Auction House;Mr. Apurva Kothari, Founding Partner of SAVAAB;Ms. Priya Tanna President, @trscreativeconsulting; Mr. Apoorva Deshingkar, Sr. Director – Market Outreach and Education, GIA India; andMs. Shachee Shah, Founder & Creative Head, Shachee Fine Jewellery.

The technical jury included Mr. DevinderLayal, Jewellery Artiste and Educationist; Ms. MeenalChoksi, Head of Design, Moksh Fine Unseen Jewellery; and Ms. SushamaKalzunkar Sawant, PD & Merchandising Head, KP Sanghvi.

At the celebratory event, GJEPC also honoured industry stalwarts whose remarkable contributions have made a lasting impact on both domestic and global fronts.

Mr. Sajil Shah, Creative Head and Founder of Sajjante, was honoured with the Design Excellence Award, while Mr. Ankit Mehta, Founder and diamond and jewellery business entrepreneurof the high-end brand Aneka, (previously Her Story),was bestowed with the prestigious Global Indian Jewellery Designer award.

Mr. Biren Vaidya, Managing Director of The House of Rose, was presented the Retail Excellence Award for its exceptional designs, high standards and excellent customer service.

The House of BNM was chosen for the Manufacturing Excellence Award, underscoring its commitment to quality and innovation. The award was received by its Co-Founder Mr. Binoy Shah.

Here’s what the judges had to say about The Artisan finalists:

Mr. Apoorva Deshingkar, Sr. Director – Market Outreach and Education, GIA India: “It is a privilege to be able to witness the design talent and their creations at The Artisan Awards. Not only does the theme – ‘Indian Craft, Reimagined’ – pose a challenge for the designers, but it also offers them a chance to creatively showcase the rich culture and heritage of Indianjewellery and artisanry. More than 630 entries are a testimony to the recognition that comes with a platform such as The Artisan Awards, and I extend my compliments to GJEPC for organising itsuccessfully year on year and raising the bar in the process. GIA India continues to support this industry initiative thathelps empower talented jewellery designers.”

Dr.UshaBalakrishnan, Eminent Historian: “Every Artisan piece has layers of narrative, from the designers who create it to the materials and designs that reflect our heritage. Crafts like Thewa, with their delicate artistry and potential for contemporary appeal, deserve greater global recognition.”

Mr. Jay Sagar, Jewellery Specialist at AstaGuru Auction House–“The designs beautifully blended tradition with contemporary appeal, and intricate creations that showcased impeccable attention to detail and lightweight charm. Indian craftsmanship is evolving, and with the younger generation of designers pushing boundaries, we are witnessing a transformative era.”

Mr. Apurva Kothari, Founding Partner of SAVAAB: “The participants have showcased exceptional creativity, blending India’s rich heritage with modern craftsmanship. The enamel work combined with gold truly stands out, reflecting a finesse in design and execution that brings every piece to life.”

Ms. Priya Tanna, President, @trscreativeconsulting: “I’m pleasantly surprised this year to witness a true revolution in the pieces being judged. The blend of traditional Indian crafts like Meenakari and beaten gold with contemporary designs is remarkable. What’s even more impressive is how these creations are designed for everyday elegance, making them both wearable and timeless.”

Ms. Shachee Shah, Founder & Creative Head, Shachee Fine Jewellery: “Jewellery is emotion brought to life, and when infused with Indian craftsmanship, it carries a deeper connection to our roots. This emotional resonance enhances its value, whether through meaningful storytelling, spiritual elements, or personalised touches like using birthstones.”