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Bengaluru GAFX 2025: Exploring the Future of Immersion with Government of Karnataka and ABAI

Mumbai / Bengaluru, 28th February 2025: Bengaluru GAFX 2025, India’s largest and most influential Bengaluru GAFX 2025 Conference, commenced today at The Lalit Ashok, Bengaluru, and will run from February 27th to March 1st, 2025. Organized by the Department of Electronics, IT & BT, Government of Karnataka, in collaboration with ABAI, the event reinforces Bengaluru’s position as the world’s leading hub for AVGC-XR and a key driver of India’s global leadership in immersive media and entertainment.

The grand inauguration witnessed the esteemed presence of Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Rural Development, Panchayat Raj, and IT & BT, Government of Karnataka, alongside key industry leaders and policymakers driving the future of immersive storytelling. The event had the privilege of welcoming Mr. Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India, as the Special Guest of Honour.

Among the distinguished attendees were Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson & Founder, Biocon Limited; Shri Rizwan Arshad, Member of Karnataka Legislative Assembly; Shri Sharath Bachegowda, MLA & Chairman, KEONICS; Mr. Marc Lamy, Consul General of France, Bengaluru; Ms. Hilary McGeachy, Consul General of Australia, Bengaluru; Mr. Alfonso Tagliaferri, Consul General of Italy, Bengaluru; Mr. Nitish Mittersain, CEO & MD, Nazara Technologies; Mr. Ashish Kulkarni, Founder & CEO, Punnaryug Artvision Pvt. Ltd.; Dr. Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, BT & S&T, Government of Karnataka; Mr. Sai Srinivas Kiran Garimella, Co-founder, MPL; Shri Rahul Sharanappa Sankanur, IAS, Director, Department of Electronics, IT & BT, Government of Karnataka; Shri Daljeet Kumar, IAS, Deputy Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, BT & S&T, Government of Karnataka; and Mr. Biren Ghose, Chairman, Bengaluru GAFX & President, ABAI.

 With the theme “Future of Immersion: EXPERIENCE. EXPLORE. DISRUPT.”, GAFX 2025, champions its commitment to furthering the frontiers of creativity and technology. Attendees will experience the power of immersive technologies in storytelling, from real-time rendering breakthroughs to the transformative potential of virtual and augmented reality. As a premier platform, GAFX 2025 will bring together global thought leaders, visionary creatives, and cutting-edge innovations, fostering collaboration and shaping the future of the industry.

A patron of Bengaluru GAFX 2025, Shri Priyank Kharge, Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology & Biotechnology and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Govt. of Karnataka said “This event holds significance not just for the government of Karnataka but for the entire nation. Our professionals are not just contributing to global projects—they are leading them, bringing unique perspectives and unmatched expertise to the forefront. In animation and visual effects, Indian artists are instrumental in delivering cutting-edge visuals for domestic and international productions. Our contributions have garnered global acclaim, positioning India as a hub of high-quality animation and VFX services.

Despite the central government’s 28% GST, we remain the fastest-growing market in the gaming sector, achieving an impressive 23% year-on-year growth. By the end of the 2024 financial year, we are set to reach $3.8 billion. Looking ahead, I hope to see Karnataka host its own national e-sports festival this year, with the vision of creating the country’s—and possibly Asia’s—largest e-sports event.”

“Karnataka has always been at the forefront of technology and digital innovation, and our leadership in AVGC-XR continues to shape the industry. Home to over 300 AVGC studios and 15,000+ professionals, Karnataka contributes significantly to India’s digital content revolution. We were the first state to introduce an AVGC-XR policy in 2012, and our third five-year policy, announced last year, strengthened this sector with production grants, tax incentives, and skill development initiatives. With India’s 500 million gamers, Karnataka leads with the highest number of gaming startups, positioning Bengaluru as the hub for next-gen game development. Our AVGC-XR fund, the first of its kind in India, supports startups and SMEs with investments up to ₹2 crore. Additionally, we are setting up India’s first AVGC-XR Park, offering production studios, incubation spaces, and research facilities. By 2029, we aim for a 30% increase in operational efficiency, a 20% boost in creative output, and a 25% expansion in digital marketing reach. GAFX 2025 reflects this vision, bringing together industry leaders, professionals, and students. Let’s collaborate, innovate, and strengthen Karnataka’s position as the global capital for AVGC-XR excellence.” – said Dr. Ekroop Caur, Secretary, Department of Electronics, IT, Bt, Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Mr. Biren Ghose, Chairman, Bengaluru GAFX & President, ABAI said, “Storytelling is evolving beyond screens into immersive experiences that redefine how we engage with content. Just as astronomers explore the cosmos, we are visionaries shaping the visual language of tomorrow. Disruption isn’t an obstacle—it’s a catalyst, much like black holes and supernovae giving birth to new creations in the universe. Bengaluru stands at the heart of this transformation, where technology, artistry, and innovation unite to take India to the world and bring the world to India. From animation and gaming to AR, VR, and beyond, we are forging global alliances, building billion-dollar franchises, and nurturing the talent that will drive the next era of entertainment. This isn’t just ambition—it’s a roadmap. The seeds are sown, and the wave of change is here. Welcome to the future of immersion.”

Bengaluru GAFX is a premier event in the AVGC industry, serving as a vital platform for collaboration between Indian and global talent. The event brings together leading international and domestic studios, along with industry veterans, to showcase some of the most acclaimed and high-profile titles. By fostering cross-industry synergy, GAFX continues to drive innovation and excellence in the animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics landscape.

Key Highlights of Bengaluru GAFX 2025

• Unveiling a Landmark Collaboration: Cine star Rana Daggubati, known for his role in Baahubali and a strong advocate for Indian storytelling, will unveil an exciting partnership between Zebu Animation and Tinkle, bringing India’s iconic comics to life through cutting-edge animation.
• India Pavilion: A first-of-its-kind showcase of AVGC talent from across Karnataka, Rajasthan, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Goa, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Assam, fostering regional co-production and collaboration.
• Esports National Championship: India’s top 4 esports teams from different zones will battle it out in the Counter-Strike 2 grand finale, bringing high-energy gaming action to GAFX 2025.
• Investor Connect: Over 25 leading investors will engage with 50 AVGC-XR startups, offering exclusive opportunities for funding and mentorship.
• Spotlight on Indian Comics: Tinkle, Amar Chitra Katha, Raj Comics, and Pran Studios will discuss the future of Indian comics, their potential to generate original IPs, and their influence on the media industry.
• AI & AVGC-XR Convergence: Experts from Deloitte, Autodesk, AMD, Nvidia, Myelin Foundry, and Adobe will explore the impact of AI in content creation, virtual production, and immersive experiences.
• Startups Innovation Zone: AVGC startups from Karnataka’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) will showcase groundbreaking work, offering a glimpse into the future of the AVGC-XR industry.
• Strengthening International Alliances: The Karnataka Government will establish a Global Innovation Alliance (GIA), bringing together France, Australia, the UK, Scotland, Uzbekistan, and Italy to foster global collaborations in AVGC-XR.

Next-Gen Vehicle Protection: Hik-Connect 6 Upgrades Elevate Security on Wheels

The latest enhancements extend the reach of ‘Team Mode’ – which already provides security management across multiple physical locations – to buses, taxis, trucks, and other vehicles. Other improvements include the addition of Motion Detection 2.0, which brings deep learning intelligence to the system, better alarm video backup, and more.

Here’s a brief overview of some key enhancements:

• Motion Detection 2.0 delivers intelligent person and vehicle search
In response to requests from the user community, Hik-Connect Team Mode now connects directly with Hikvision cameras equipped with the Motion Detection 2.0 to enable this feature. It combines the widely applied motion detection function with deep-learning algorithms that differentiate people and vehicles from other moving objects. With Team Mode, you can rapidly search through multi-channel recordings to locate the events that matter. This functionality is also available to users of Q/K Series NVRs (with firmware version 4.74.000 or later) with stream encryption activated.

• Integration with Hikvision’s mobile onboard security system
By connecting to Hikvision’s mobile onboard security system, Hik-Connect Team Mode can now be used to provide remote security management of buses, taxis, trucks, and other types of vehicles. The interior of vehicles, as well as their surroundings and precise location, can now be remotely monitored in real-time. You can view vehicle status updates, manage driver permissions, link vehicles to drivers, create driver groups, and more. You can also generate and export reports from Hik-Connect 6 for further analysis and decision-making.

• Simplified self-service license activation
With this update, activating licenses in Hik-Connect Team Mode is now a more straightforward, self-managed process, eliminating the need for installer assistance and delivering a much better user experience.

• Cloud-based backup and sharing of alarm videos
You can now access and share your alarm event videos effortlessly via a web portal, using URLs. Recipients can view these videos without needing to log into a Hik-Connect account. And the best part? This service is now provided free of charge.

60percentage of Indian Executives Think Current Workload on Their Security Operators is Excessive: IBM and Palo Alto Networks Study

MUMBAI, India, 28 February 2025- New global research from the IBM Institute for Business Value (IBV) and Palo Alto Networks® (NASDAQ: PANW), found that surveyed organizations are facing security complexity challenges as they juggle an average of 67 different security solutions from 26 vendors. It also shows 7 out of 10 surveyed companies with a high degree of security platformization report their cybersecurity investments have helped business outcomes such as operational efficiencies and revenue generation.

In the study, “Capturing the cybersecurity dividend: How security platforms generate business value,” more than half (77%) of surveyed executives note fragmentation of security solutions is limiting their ability to deal with cyber threats, but 75% of organizations that have embraced security platformization agree that better integration across security, hybrid cloud, AI, and other technology platforms is crucial. The analysis suggests the trend of adding more solutions to combat evolving security threats is contributing to inefficiency – impacting both performance and the bottom line – while moving to a platformized security approach can help businesses achieve reduced response times and costs without sacrificing security efficacy.

Cybersecurity Complexity is a Daunting Reality

Increased digital interconnectedness expands attack surfaces and can create new cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Cyberattacks are becoming more sophisticated and harder to defend against, while AI is being used by both defenders and attackers, creating a race in cybersecurity capabilities.

In an evolving threat landscape, surveyed executives estimate security fragmentation and complexity costs their organizations an average of 5% of their annual revenue. For a $20 billion annual revenue company, that’s a $1 billion cost to the business in aggregate. Tally the costs of security incidents, lost productivity, failed digital transformations, stalled AI initiatives, loss of customer trust and reputational damage and the numbers add up.

“Organizations continue to be challenged with updating their security posture to address new threats, while simultaneously being pressed to reduce complexity and decrease spend,” said Mark Hughes, Global Managing Partner for Cybersecurity Services, IBM. “Security executives need to enable innovation, protect assets and derive value from their cybersecurity investments to help their organizations thrive and further their business goals.”

“Digital connectivity has expanded the attack surface and introduced new vulnerabilities. As cyberattacks become more sophisticated and challenging to thwart, AI has emerged as a key battleground between adversaries and defenders in cybersecurity,” said Michelle Saw, VP GTM and Ecosystems, JAPAC at Palo Alto Networks.

We share a commitment with IBM Consulting to empower our customers with enhanced value. Findings from our survey highlight how platformization can help organizations achieve improved cybersecurity outcomes. By addressing complexity through the strategic consolidation and integration of security solutions onto a unified platform, organizations can significantly enhance efficiency, reduce risk, lower costs, and unlock new business opportunities. Ultimately, platformization transforms security from a “necessary cost” into a “value driver.”

Key insights from surveyed business leaders in India compared to the global average:

77% of Indian executives (52% globally) say complexity is the biggest impediment to their cybersecurity operations;

60% of Indian executives (80% globally) agree they face pressure to reduce the cost of security, and globally 41% say security fragmentation has driven up procurement costs;

4 out of 5 non-platform of all organizations globally say their security operations cannot effectively deal with the sheer quantity of threats and attacks; and

Globally, 80% of platformization adopters say they have full visibility into potential vulnerabilities and threats; and,

Globally, for platformized organizations, mean time to identify (MTTI) and mean time to contain (MTTC) security incidents are shorter by an average of 152 and 113 days, respectively.

Enhancing Businesses with Platformization: Unleashing the Power of Digital Transformation

In today’s world, the research finds effective security requires platformization. Consolidating multiple tools into a unified platform not only bolsters security posture but enables organizations to experience nearly 4 times better return on investment (ROI) from their cybersecurity investments, leading to revenue generation and increased operational efficiencies.

When it comes to AI, a platform approach can also enable an organization to better ingest and analyze data to deliver actionable insights. With 90% of surveyed executives expecting to scale, optimize, or innovate with AI within the next two years, integrating AI into their platforms can play a critical role in advancing their security preparedness. For example, accelerating adoption of agentic AI for security and tapping platformization for fewer investment cycles; or, using platformization to create the common governance needed to deliver the AI capabilities shaping the future.

By adopting a platformization approach, businesses can align technologies, drive innovation, and prioritize security as a core business requirement. Through IBM and Palo Alto Networks’ strategic partnership, the companies are bringing together leading security platforms, AI, and transformation capabilities to help organizations confidently navigate their digital transformation journey, achieve their desired outcomes and drive substantial business value.

Tips for Platformization Success

Choose partners that streamline your security mission and trim those that don’t. Critically evaluate current and potential technology, services, and support partners, and make hard decisions about where to double down and when to part ways.

Run your playbook. Stage incident response drills to assess where a unified platform can deliver the greatest impact. Take action to improve your incident response capabilities.

Help your business get prepared to respond to threats by putting it to the test. Visit a cyber range to prepare business and technical teams to address the latest cyber threats through an immersive, organization-wide business-focused engagement. IBM and Palo Alto Networks now provide a joint Cyber Range experience in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where clients can leverage the facility to support continuous improvement, training, and change management as they transform their security operating models with platformization.

Study Methodology

This IBM Institute of Business Value (IBV) research, conducted in collaboration with Oxford Economics and published in partnership with Palo Alto Networks, surveyed 1,000 executives including 53 executives in India across 21 industries and 18 countries from July through September 2024. The IBM IBV team then analyzed insights and data from respondents to facilitate the creation of a “platformization index,” which measures the extent to which an organization has moved toward security platformization, then used that index to ascertain the relationship between security platformization and security and business outcomes.

Leading the Way in Employee Satisfaction: Datamatics Business Solutions Recognized as a WOW Workplace

Mumbai, 28 February 2025: Datamatics Business Solutions Limited (DBSL), a global leader in B2B data and demand generation solutions, has been awarded the prestigious WOW Workplace Award 2025 by Jombay. This accolade recognises organisations with outstanding employee reviews, reflecting exceptional workplace engagement and culture.

The WOW Workplace Awards, in its first edition, is an annual initiative by Jombay that celebrates companies which foster exemplary work environments. The awards are based on authentic engagement stories collected through Jombay’s AI-driven platform, which evaluates employee sentiments against a proprietary WOW Engagement framework, considering factors such as pride, efficacy, empowerment, connection, and well-being.

Nishant Kanodia, Chairman of Datamatics Business Solutions Limited, stated, ” This recognition is a reflection of our continuous efforts to create an environment where our team can thrive and excel. We are honoured to be recognised by Jombay and remain committed to fostering a workplace that promotes growth, innovation, and well-being.”

DBSL focuses on aligning individual roles with organisational objectives, instilling a sense of pride and clarity among employees. By fostering trust, credibility, and team synergy, DBSL ensures a connected and motivated workforce. Its initiatives aimed at empowerment and well-being reinforce a culture where individuals feel valued and supported.

Loly Vadassery, CHRO of Datamatics Business Solutions, added, “This prestigious award is particularly meaningful because it’s about the real experiences of our people. It reinforces our commitment to building a workplace where every employee feels supported and connected.”

Receiving the WOW Workplace Award highlights DBSL’s dedication to employee satisfaction and enhances its industry reputation. This recognition strengthens trust among clients, partners, and stakeholders, reinforcing its strong market positioning.

The award ceremony took place on February 19, 2025, at the JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, during Jombay’s annual Workplace of Winners (WOW) Conference, bringing together over 400 CXOs and 200 next-generation leaders to celebrate workplace excellence.

This accolade is yet another feather in DBSL’s history of industry recognition, including previous awards for business excellence and innovation.

Jaipuria School of Business Hosts Scintilla 2K25: A Dazzling Celebration of Talent and Culture

The much-anticipated Scintilla 2K25, the mega annual festival of Jaipuria School of Business (JSB), Ghaziabad, concluded with unparalleled energy, creativity, and enthusiasm, leaving behind a trail of unforgettable moments. The festival, which brought together students from over 65 colleges and 900+ participants, was a spectacular blend of cultural, intellectual, and entertainment extravaganza.

 The event was inaugurated by Ms. Shilpi Marwah, Director of Sukhmanch Theatre, who captivated the audience with her insightful address on the transformative power of arts, culture, and education in shaping future leaders. She urged students to pursue their passions with dedication, emphasizing that true learning goes beyond textbooks and into real-world experiences.

 Dr. Rajiv R. Thakur, Director General, Jaipuria School of Business, reflected on the event’s remarkable growth over the past three years, applauding the increasing participation and the students’ passion for experiential learning. He encouraged students to embrace learning that contributes to society, emphasizing that management education is best understood through action, collaboration, and service.

 The festival showcased a diverse array of performances and competitions, including Hackathon, Admaniacs, Solo Singing, Dance, Drama, and Fashion Show, aligning with the theme “Swarnim Bharat” – a celebration of India’s rich heritage and dynamic progress. The highlight of the evening was a sensational Celebrity Night featuring renowned singer Fazilpuria, who enthralled the audience with his high-energy performance, making it a night to remember.

 With vibrant performances, spirited competitions, and electrifying entertainment, Scintilla 2K25 truly embodied the essence of talent, teamwork, and transformation. As the curtains close on this exhilarating edition, Jaipuria School of Business looks forward to an even grander celebration next year.

 Jaipuria School of Business is a leading PDGM institution in Delhi NCR region with NBA accreditation and AIU equivalence to MBA. The B-school practices an i-Lead philosophy to nurture leadership skills and an active international immersion programme to build global perspectives among students.

Managed Office Providers Redefining Workspaces with Customization and Flexibility

In today’s dynamic business landscape, companies are increasingly seeking workspace solutions that combine flexibility, technology-driven customization, and comprehensive managed services. This demand has spurred a wave of innovative providers who are reimagining the office environment to support modern work styles and agile operations.

As per a recent study by Business research insights, it is projected “The managed office Market size was valued at approximately USD 34.76 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 129.71 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 15.77% from 2023 to 2032.

Looking at the unprecedented growth of flex spaces, primarily dominated by the flex leasing trend and allure from GCC and SEZ regions, the flexible workspace solutions has been on the rise and that is also been one of the key growth drivers for the managed office space industry.

Thriving and revolutionizing these trends, here are the top 3 managed office space providers which are merging innovative technology with flexible design and comprehensive managed solutions and working towards reshaping the modern work environment, fueling productivity, and driving business success globally.

Here are the top three firms disruptive the managed office space industry:-

Onward Workspaces

Onward Workspaces is a premium workspace provider that empowers businesses by delivering modern, flexible office environments designed to inspire productivity and collaboration. With locations strategically situated in major business hubs, Onward Workspaces is committed to creating dynamic, accessible, and resourceful environments tailored to the evolving needs of today’s businesses.

Synq.Work

Founded in 2018, Synq.work is one of the fastest-growing managed office space providers, utilizing technology, culture, and strategic management for a competitive edge. They focus on functionality and ergonomics to create immersive work environments that boost productivity and collaboration through advanced tech-enabled services. Synq.work offers highly customizable office spaces, providing tailored enterprise solutions for businesses of all sizes. Their facilities, designed for medium and large teams, use smart office technologies like IoT sensors and automation systems to optimize workforce utilization, reduce energy consumption, and enhance the overall experience. Additionally, Synq.work features a state-of-the-art app that allows members to book meeting rooms, connect with colleagues, and access exclusive events and discounts. High-speed internet and advanced IT infrastructure ensure seamless, secure connectivity with no dead zones and N+1 redundancy.

Skootr (Managed office spaces)

Skootr is India’s foremost ‘Premium Managed Office Space’ provider, where we co-create world-class workspaces & experiences for enterprises. With Grade A assets & best in class services, Skootr has become India’s go-to’ brand for bespoke offices amongst top international clients. Skootr offers ‘Space as a service’ wherein enterprises get the benefits of a hassle-free, fully customized flexible office space without locking up growth capital in CapEx.

Barista Celebrates 25 Years of Innovation and Quality in India’s Coffee Scene

New Delhi, 28th February 2025: Barista Coffee, one of India’s leading home-grown coffee chains, marks its 25th anniversary on February 28, 2025, celebrating more than two decades of rich coffee culture and premium coffee experiences. With a strong network of 465+ stores across cities, Barista Coffee has been evolving with time and redefining India’s coffee culture. Over the years, the brand has expanded its footprint across the country and internationally, delivering premium coffee experiences to generations.

To celebrate the milestone, Barista Coffee will offer a free upgrade on the orders for their consumer ordering during the anniversary week, i.e, 28th February to 2nd March. Additionally, the brand has planned to launch the Anniversary special – limited edition coffee packs.

Elated on the occasion, Rajat Agrawal, CEO, Barista Coffee, said, “Celebrating the 25th Anniversary is a remarkable milestone, Barista Coffee Company is the largest homegrown coffee chain in India. We constantly evolve as a brand to stay relevant in the fast-paced industry. Over the years, Barista Coffee has launched multiple unique initiatives, menus, and campaigns. For generations, Barista Coffee has given people a sense of nostalgia and we look forward to continuing our journey with the same enthusiasm.”

As Barista Coffee steps into its next chapter, the brand remains focused on strengthening its presence across India, introducing a unique fusion of flavours, and serving generations of coffee lovers. The 25-year milestone is not just a celebration of past achievements but also a vision to shape the future of India’s coffee culture with a renewed zeel.

A New Lease on Life: Holding onto the Present with His Restored Hand

Kochi , 28-02-2025: For Manoj, a 50-year-old from Angamaly, life changed in an instant. The last thing he remembers from the workplace accident was the sight of his own hand separating from his wrist, a memory he recalls with fear. “All I thought about was the aftermath. I felt like this was the end of my life,” recollected Manoj, about the unfortunate accident.

Manoj’s right hand was completely severed at the wrist by a sheet-cutting machine. Initially he was taken to a private hospital in Aluva but was quickly referred to Aster Medcity for advanced care. Within 45 minutes of the accident, Manoj was admitted to the emergency department, where a team of medical experts acted swiftly to save his hand and his life.

Despite significant blood loss and mental trauma, a multidisciplinary team worked tirelessly. After initial stabilization by the Emergency Department, the team led by Dr. Manoj Sanap, Senior Consultant – Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery started dissection of the amputated part. Anesthesia was administered under the guidance of Dr. Aril Abraham E, Senior Consultant – Critical Care & Pain Management.

The surgical journey began with bone fixation by Dr. Shyam Gopal V, Consultant – Orthopaedics. Following this, Dr. Manoj Sanap, along with Dr. Niranjana Suresh and Dr. Shruthi T. S, carried out a meticulous replantation procedure. Over the course of 10 hours, the team successfully reattached the severed hand, by doing microvascular surgery which involved repair of multiple arteries, veins and nerves.

“Accidents like these can happen unexpectedly, but recovery is possible if patients are taken to hospitals equipped to provide advanced care. The field of plastic surgery has evolved far beyond aesthetics, playing a key role in life-saving and reconstructive procedures like this,” said Dr. Manoj Sanap, Senior Consultant – Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, Aster Medcity.

Within 14 days he was able to return home. Now, third month into intensive physiotherapy and regular reviews, he is regaining the functionality of the hand.

Grand Success at NMOTSAV’25 with Padma Shri Manoj Joshi and Asees Kaur’s Stellar Performances

NMIMS Indore campus held its 5th annual fest, NMOTSAV’25, from February 21 to 23, 2025. The annual fest is organized every year by the cultural committee of the campus – “SANGAM”. The three-day extravaganza was filled with exciting events and competitions and the grand finale witnessed Bollywood singer Asees Kaur delight the audience with her hit numbers. NMOTSAV’25 was a resounding success, blending entertainment and education seamlessly. With stellar performances and mind-blowing competitions, it was nothing short of spectacular. The event not only celebrated the vibrant culture of NMIMS Indore but also provided an enriching experience for all participants.

The first day kicked off with highly energetic performances in Battle of Bands where solo artists and groups showcased their musical talent. From soulful melodies to electrifying riff-offs, this was nothing short of a reality musical show. The day ended with a magical evening with ‘Movie Night’. Day two was an extraordinary experience for all the cinephiles as it featured an interaction with Padma Shri award recipient Mr Manoj Joshi. The evening continued with the ultimate dance competition ‘Beat Bash’ which brought some of the biggest hidden talents. The much-anticipated fashion show KALYANA 3.0 added the sparkle to the fascinating night with participants showcasing their creativity to the ‘MET GALA’ themed walk. The night ended with the neon glimmer of Prom Night where students danced their hearts out to the magic of renowned DJ Aryan Gala. The grand finale was hands down the ultimate college concert experience for all those who witnessed the enchanted night. Bollywood sensation Asees Kaur took the stage and turned it into a spectacle.

One of the major highlights of this three-day fest was the electrifying stage performance by Bollywood Pop Star Asees Kaur on the third day. The crowd was bursting with enthusiasm as she took the stage and delivered her famous hits, including Raatan Lambiya, Bolna and bop hits like Akh Lad Jaave. The night was full of passion and energy as the attendees grooved to her magical voice. Apart from the competitions and cultural programs, the fest also featured an interactive session with the legendary actor Mr Manoj Joshi. The eminent veteran actor had much to share with the group of NMIMS enthusiasts. Students asked him questions about the challenges faced by actors in the Indian film industry. He also shared his struggles and hardships in the industry. The students got to learn about the behind-the-scenes of the working professional.

Dr. Anshuman Jaswal, Director of NMIMS Indore, commented “NMOTSAV 2025 at NMIMS Indore was an incredible celebration of culture, creativity, and community! Over three exciting days, our campus came alive with a festive atmosphere as students showcased their talents in a range of cultural activities. We were deeply honoured to have distinguished guests join us—Padmashri Manoj Joshi and our esteemed Trustee, Shri Bhargav Patel—whose presence added immense value and inspiration to the event. The highlight of the final day was an unforgettable concert by the renowned Ms. Asees Kaur, who set the perfect tone for a memorable finale. A heartfelt thank you to our Mentors, Shri Arvind Banthia and Shri Ajay Bankda, and the entire Sangam Team, who contributed to making NMOTSAV 2025 a tremendous success.”

The success of NMOTSAV’25 was made possible by the dedication and collaborative efforts of many individuals. Most appreciative praise to Mentor Shri Arvind Banthia, whose guidance played a crucial role in shaping this festival.

A special token of appreciation goes to our distinguished guests, Padmashri Manoj Joshi and esteemed trustee Shri Bhargav Patel, whose presence brought immense honour to the event. Additionally, we extend our gratitude to Mentor Shri Ajay Bankda, whose continuous support helped bring this vision to life.

CavinKare Ability Awards 2025: Six Exceptional Disability Advocates Honoured for Their Achievements

Bengaluru, 27th February 2025: Honouring six exceptional achievers with disabilities from across the country, CavinKare, in collaboration with Ability Foundation, one of the nation’s leading NGOs, hosted the 23rd edition of the CavinKare Ability Awards in the city today. Recognizing their relentless pursuit as changemakers who challenged societal norms, the event witnessed several dignitaries like Shri A R. Rahman, Dr. Vinod Surana & Dr. Mariazeena Johnson expressing solidarity with the cause. The evening also featured a captivating Mohiniyattam performance by the esteemed Kalaimamani Gopika Varma and her troupe, further enriching the event’s spirit of inclusivity and cultural appreciation.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. C K Ranganathan, Chairman and Managing Director, CavinKare Pvt. Ltd. said, “I am very happy to celebrate the incredible achievements of individuals with disabilities who have defied limitations and set new benchmarks for excellence. The CavinKare Ability Awards stands as a testament to their resilience, talent, and indomitable spirit. At CavinKare, we take immense pride in recognizing and honouring these extraordinary achievers, whose inspiring stories encourage us all to embrace inclusivity and challenge societal perceptions. Through this initiative, we aim to foster a more empowered and inclusive society where every individual is inspired to dream big and achieve beyond boundaries.”

Congratulating the recipients Ms. Jayshree Raveendran, Founder & Hon. Executive Director, Ability Foundation, made her point by saying: “Today, as we gather to celebrate remarkable accomplishments, we are not merely recognizing individual successes, we are also amplifying the powerful voices of a diverse community. Through these awards, millions of India’s disabled individuals are speaking, loud and clear, asserting that they deserve to be noticed, accepted, and celebrated for who they truly are. Each recipient here embodies the resilience of countless others who are still striving to break free from the constraints imposed by society. As they break these constraints, it is imperative that society, in turn, acknowledges their vast potential and fosters an environment where their contributions are just waiting to be utilized.”

The recipients of this year’s awards were meticulously selected by an eminent panel of jurors, which included Mr. Madhan Karky, Lyricist and Screenwriter; Ms. Soumya Swaminathan, Chairperson of the M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation; Justice (Retd.) Prabha Sridevan, Former Judge of the Madras High Court; Mr. Kapil Viswanathan, Co-founder of Krea University and President of IFMR; and Mr. S. Sethuraman, Chartered Accountant.

Established in the year 2003, the CavinKare Ability Awards have been recognizing exemplary services as well as accomplishments of achievers with disabilities. This esteemed national award is divided into three categories: the CavinKare Ability Award for Eminence, the CavinKare Ability Mastery Awards and CavinKare Ability Special Recognition Award.

The recipients of CavinKare Ability Awards 2025 are:

CavinKare Ability Special Recognition Award:
Sarah Sunny, Bengaluru, Karnataka

Sarah Sunny is India’s first deaf lawyer to argue before the Supreme Court, marking a historic step toward an inclusive legal system. Despite systemic barriers, including the lack of sign language interpreters trained in legal terminology, she persisted, advocating for accessibility in the judiciary. Raised in Bengaluru, she studied law at St. Joseph’s College and got enrolled as an advocate in 2021. Her success challenges stereotypes and paves the way for greater representation of deaf professionals in law.

CavinKare Ability Award for Eminence:
Poonam Shroti, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

Poonam Shroti is a passionate disability rights advocate who was born with osteogenesis imperfecta, a condition that causes fragile bones. Despite facing numerous challenges, Poonam defied societal expectations by completing her education and thriving in the corporate world. She founded Uddip Social Welfare Society to empower individuals with disabilities, particularly in India’s tier-two cities, through education, employment, and advocacy. Uddip’s initiatives have impacted hundreds, promoting inclusion, dignity, and independence.

CavinKare Ability Mastery Awards:
Mohammad Shams Aalam Shaikh, Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat

Mohammad Shams Aalam Shaikh is a celebrated Indian Para Swimmer and advocate for disability rights. After being diagnosed with paraplegia due to a tumor, Shams turned to sports, achieving remarkable success. He holds the World Record for the Longest Open Sea Swim by a Paraplegic and has won 31 national medals. He is a 2018 Asian Para Games participant. Shams has also earned an MBA and launched initiatives like the Active Wheelchair Project to improve mobility for people with disabilities. Honoured with numerous awards, including the President’s Best Sportsperson with Disability Award, Shams continues to inspire with his vision for greater accessibility and inclusion in sports. At the Reykjavik International Games in January 2025, he further strengthened his legacy by securing six medals-one gold, three silver, and two bronze, while setting a new National and Asian record in the 200m Breaststroke.

Miranda Tomkinson, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Miranda Tomkinson is a lecturer in the Department of Special Education at NIEPMD, with a focus on Deafblindness and Special Education for Multiple Disabilities. As the first Deafblind individual in India to complete a major in Special Education, Miranda holds three postgraduate degrees and has cleared the UGC NET exams in Sociology and Education. He is known for his innovative teaching methods and research contributions, including his work on assistive technologies like NUANCE DRAGON. Through his blog, YouTube channel, and upcoming book, Miranda advocates for greater inclusion and awareness for individuals with Deafblindness and multiple disabilities.

 Arshad Pandit, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir

Arshad Pandit is an Associate Professor at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) and a pioneering researcher in medical genetics and cancer diagnostics. In 1995, Arshad’s life was dramatically changed when he was shot by terrorists, leaving him paraplegic. Despite the immense physical and emotional challenges, he went on to earn a Master’s degree and Ph.D. in Immunology. He has secured over 12 crores in research funding and developed a hand-controlled driving system for independence. Arshad today mentors individuals with disabilities, promoting mobility, independence, and integration into society.

Jilumol Mariet Thomas, Thodupuzha, Kerala

Jilumol Mariet Thomas, born without arms due to thalidomide syndrome, is a self-employed graphic designer and a member of the Mouth and Foot Painting Artists Association. She uses her feet for tasks like typing, sketching, and creating digital artwork. Jilumol holds the 2021 Best Painter of the Year Award and is also a skilled foot painter with works displayed in exhibitions. In 2023, she became the first female in Asia without arms to receive a four-wheeler license. Jilumol has also ventured into dubbing for Malayalam cinema and is a motivational speaker.