Category Archives: News

ABND successfully wraps the Spatial Branding project for FLAME University’s Arjuna Centre for Sports

Mumbai, India, May 27th, 2025: ABND, a strategic brand consultancy, has successfully completed the spatial branding mandate for the Arjuna Centre for Sports at FLAME University, Pune.

Envisioned as a high-performance space rooted in FLAME University’s holistic educational philosophy, the Arjuna Centre for Sports is a 100,000 sq. ft. facility designed to foster excellence across over 20 sporting disciplines. ABND, FLAME University’s branding partner for over a decade, was trusted with developing a spatial branding system that could energize and unify the environment while aligning seamlessly with the university’s minimalist and grounded architectural identity.

Drawing inspiration from Arjuna, the legendary archer known for focus and precision, ABND crafted a visual and experiential system that evokes discipline, movement, and purpose.

“Sports and sportsmanship are an integral part of the FLAME culture.” said Dr. Virender Sharma, Registrar, FLAME University. “The Arjuna Centre for Sports was designed to support this philosophy, and ABND’s work helped shape an environment that feels both inspiring and true to who we are. The space now speaks to our community, not just as athletes, but as individuals growing through every experience.”

“Balancing energy with restraint was key,” said Kunal Vora, Founder-Partner, ABND. “FLAME is known for its iconic architecture, deeply grounded, humble, and thoughtfully designed. It was important that our spatial branding approach didn’t overpower that. Our responsibility was to create an experience that supports the athlete’s journey, aids intuitive navigation, and channels the spirit of sport, all while staying aligned with FLAME’s introspective design ethos.”

Through this collaboration, the Arjuna Centre for Sports stands as a cohesive, purpose-driven space that reflects both the dynamism of sport and the university’s commitment to shaping well-rounded individuals.

Velocity Gaming, Revenant XSpark & Reckoning Esports Advance to Split 2 LAN Finals – OMEN VALORANT Challengers SA 2025

New Delhi, May 27, 2025: After weeks of high-octane action and tactical brilliance, Velocity Gaming, Revenant XSpark, and Reckoning Esports have emerged as the top three teams from the Split 2 group stage of OMEN VALORANT Challengers South Asia 2025, securing their spots in the upcoming LAN Finals scheduled for May 31, 2025 and June 01, 2025 at the Phoenix Market City, Mumbai.

OMEN VALORANT Challengers South Asia (VCSA) is a Riot Games and NODWIN Gaming IP, with OMEN by HP as the title sponsor. The Split 2 stage featured South Asia’s top eight VALORANT teams competing for a ₹29 lakh prize pool, LAN Finals qualification, and crucial Challenger Points on the road to VCT Ascension Pacific 2025.

The Split 2 of the OMEN VCSA saw multiple standout performances throughout the competition, but none more impactful than Muhammad Axel Syahbanna Dadan aka k1ngkappa from S8UL, who was named the MVP of the Split 2 group stage with a league-leading 189 eliminations.

The Split 2 Group Stage witnessed remarkable community engagement through 40+ creator watch parties, highlighting the rising momentum of VALORANT esports in South Asia. The excitement continues at the LAN Finals with more giveaways, surprises, and action-packed experiences for fans.

From the Organizers

Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder & Managing Director, NODWIN Gaming:

“With the top 3 teams now locked in, we’re excited to bring the community an epic LAN finale for Split 2. The level of talent this season has been incredible—truly world-class. The road to Ascension is getting intense, and we can’t wait to host an unforgettable showdown in Mumbai.”

Sukamal Pegu, Esports Lead, South Asia, Riot Games:

“Split 2 has continued to elevate the standard of competition in South Asia. The qualified teams have earned their place at the LAN through sheer hard work and consistency. We can’t wait to see how the story unfolds as we inch closer to crowning the champions of Split 2.”

LAN Finals Details

Venue: Phoenix Market City, Mumbai

Dates: May 31 and June 1, 2025

Teams Qualified:

Velocity Gaming

Revenant XSpark

Reckoning Esports

With Split 3 still to come, the OMEN VCSA 2025 continues to offer South Asian VALORANT teams a structured path to regional and global glory. The LAN Finals promise fans a spectacle filled with clutch plays, passionate rivalries, and unforgettable moments.

JD Design Awards 2025 – Interior Design, Bangalore Edition 25th May 2025

Bangalore, 27th May 2025: Interior Designers of JD School of Design, powered by JD Institute of Fashion Technology, proudly wrapped up the Bangalore edition of JD Design Awards 2025—a two-day exhibition of creativity, innovation, purpose-driven and AI-enabled designs. Held at the iconic Karnataka Chitrakala Parishath on the 23rd and 24th of May, the event brought together industry leaders who conducted placement drive for these talented designers, design professionals, media, and a curious 1000+ attendees to witness the powerful ideas emerging from India’s next generation of designers in the interior, spatial and furniture design landscape.

From reimagined public infrastructure to emotionally intelligent furniture, and from sustainable co-living spaces to modular mobile retail formats, each project presented during the showcase stood as a reflection of bold vision, social sensitivity, and human-centric thinking.

The event witnessed the presence of distinguished industry professionals, including Mr. Seetharama Sharma – Product and Technical Trainer, Blum; Ms. Saumya Kashyap – CEO and Founder, Vystrit Designs; Mr. Ashok Kumar K.C – CEO and Founder, Pergola Design; Mr. Pratheep H S – CEO and Founder, Build Arch; Ms. Sri Vidya B S – Senior Manager, Process Excellence, Design Cafe; Mr. Prashanth Havinahal – Founder, Invisible Bed & The Space Company; Ms. Daminie Nanda – Marketing Head, D Arch; and Mr. Ashish More – Marketing and Communication, Blum.

Visitors engaged with immersive installations that pushed the boundaries of materiality, utility, and empathy. Many attendees described the experience as “transformative,” “deeply moving,” and “a revelation of what design can do beyond aesthetics.”

The event also served as a platform for sparking conversations around sustainable urban living, emotional wellness through spatial design, and the future of adaptive architecture. With support from our forward-thinking partners, the event reaffirmed JD Institute’s commitment to nurturing socially conscious and technically proficient design talent.

“For us, the JD Design Awards is a platform for reflection of everything we stand for—design that questions, heals, innovates, and serves. What we witnessed in Bangalore was a powerful showcase of young minds turning complex challenges into meaningful, human-centred solutions. These weren’t just student presentations; they were thoughtful explorations into how design can shape a more conscious and connected world. We couldn’t be prouder of the integrity, imagination, and purpose our students brought to the stage.”, said Mr. Nealesh Dalal, a visionary leader and the force behind the change in the design landscape.

Winners of JD Design Awards 2025 – Bangalore Edition, we are proud to announce the standout projects and individuals who were recognised for their innovation, execution, and impact in interior design.

 R.A. Deepthi Sri received the Outstanding Research Award for Neuro Sphere, Praveen S was awarded the Adaptive Reuse Excellence Award for his project Aart Cafe. The Next-Gen Design Award was presented to Sai Darshan K J for INSPINITY, and Sanjana Jain earned the Best Transformative Space Design Award for Minutes of Break. Recognising innovation in retail, Padmavathi M won the Transformative Retail Concept Award for Roaming Luxe. The Immersive Virtual Experience Award went to Arpan A Bhansali for Natures Sanctuary, and Suman M. Purohit was honoured with the Outstanding Conceptual Design award for Gaumaya.

Pushing the boundaries of sustainable design, Kashvi Katariya earned the Best Biophilic Spatial Design award for CULTIV-ATE, and Lanchana Nanda was celebrated with the Contextual Design Excellence Award for Nadu Nest. Dhruvi Jain’s project LIVENZA was recognised with the Design for Circular Craftsmanship Award, while Sreelakshmi M received the Best Live Experience Excellence Award for Rasa Vastra Veda. The Best Modular Design in Urban Rest Spaces award was given to Bhuvan M for Belowed, and Manve S Reddy’s Thotti Mane earned the Best Conservation of Vernacular Design Award.

In the realm of inclusive and user-sensitive spaces, Mahima Donata I was awarded Excellence in Sensory-Sensitive Spatial Design for Little Wings, and Vansika Jain received the Innovative Workspace Solutions Award for Atelier & Co. Muskaan Bothra won the Best Community-Centric Spatial Design award for Neeli Katte, while R Likitha & Tejaswini Suresh were recognised with the Best Public Utility Design for Rethinking of Public Toilets. Swetha Kariappa Imubiyanda was honoured with the Best Adaptable Product for Urban Living award for Pet Shell, and Monisha N & Raksha B received the Best Design for Public Mindfulness Award for Interactive Space with Modular Seating.

Rubbina JK’s Deco in the Wild secured the Best Public Space Redesign award, and the Best Transformative Furniture Design went to Renu Agarwal S & S Harshita for EVONEST. Rhea A Ravindra’s Sahar – Haven earned the Best Design for Cultural Fusion and Immersive Experience award, while Jeffrin Jiji George received the Best Sustainable Retreat Design Award for Beachy Bristro. Shreyas B C was awarded Most Functional and Flexible Interior Concept for Curtained Corner, and finally, Gautham Kumar Bhandari was honoured with the Best Interpretive Design for Heritage Spaces award for his evocative project KALPAVRUKSHA.

We proudly congratulate all the award winners for their remarkable contributions and visionary designs that reflect the spirit of innovation, sustainability, and excellence showcased at JDDA 2025.

With the support of our visionary partners— Blum, Vystrit, ADI, Furniture Fitting Skill Council, Indian Green Building Council, Ethos, Livspace, Medini, Adebeo, Pergola design, Invisible Bed, Signify-Phillips, ARK With chaos, MAD studio, TERI, CS Construction & Interiors, AITI Interieurs, Bonito, Design cafe, Pongs, Living spaces, Vishwakarma interiors, Radhe shyam Green lam, Workspace concept, Pepper fry, Megavent, Monarch, Mr. Builder, Jaquar fittings, Sumit decor, Material depot, Gomaya paints, Aura plaster, Suvetah, Konverto furniture, D Mass- Automation, VN Creations, Wall décor pro, SN Marbles and granite, Vivista interiors, SVE INTURIO, Navaratan Group, Chettinad tiles, MOBILE MOVERS, Studio segments- MCM, RKT – Tiles, Wooden street, Fabio furnishing, MNM Glass garden, Sri Satya Sai glass and plywood centre with Nippon Paints, Arun Electric Corporation, Vriddhi, Craste, Prakash marbles, Wallqueen Interiors Pvt Ltd., Niram, Third axis – the JD Design Awards 2025 promises not just an exhibition, but a revelation.

For JD School of Design, the awards mark more than an annual tradition—they reflect a long-term mission: to shape the minds that will shape our spaces, cities, and lives. As we close the chapter on this year’s Bangalore edition, we look ahead with renewed pride in our community and belief in design’s power to create meaningful change.

HomeSure Wins Prestigious ‘Brand of the Year 2025’ Title at Goal Fest Conclave

Mumbai, India | May 27, 2025 – HomeSure, the flagship B2C brand of Walplast Products Pvt. Ltd., has been conferred the prestigious title of “Brand of the Year 2025” at the 17th edition of the Brand of the Year Awards, held during the Goal Fest Conclave 2025 at the Hilton Hotel, Goa. The award was presented by Shri. Nitin Raiker – Director of Fire & Emergency Services- Government of Goa and Ms. Chaity Sen, Publishing Director, Herald Global.

The award recognizes HomeSure’s exceptional performance in the building materials sector. With consistent excellence in product innovation and performance, customer centric product solution, marketing effectiveness delivering trust, HomeSure has firmly established itself as a leading brand in the industry.

Mr. Kaushal Mehta, Managing Director of Walplast, said “We are honoured to receive this prestigious award, an affirmation of the values we stand for performance, integrity, and customer focus. This recognition reflects not just the success of our brand, but the tireless dedication of our team, who consistently deliver quality and innovation. At HomeSure, we aim to go beyond products and offer complete, sustainable solutions for durable construction. We dedicate this award to our customers, whose trust inspires us to keep raising the bar every day.”

HomeSure was selected through a rigorous three-phase research and evaluation process conducted by BARC Asia, which assessed over 500 brands across key parameters including customer recall, positioning, innovation, sustainability, growth, and overall market impact.

Mr. Aniruddha Sinha, Sr. Vice President – Marketing, CSR, Toll Manufacturing & Business Head P2P Division, Walplast added: “Winning the ‘Brand of the Year 2025’ title is a proud milestone for all of us at HomeSure. It reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering quality, innovation, and trust at every touchpoint. Our vision has always been to build a brand rooted in purpose, performance and reliability —and this award is a powerful validation of that objective.”

Walplast’s journey is a compelling example of what focused innovation and value-led leadership can achieve. The company launched HomeSure to bring consumer-centric, performance-driven home building solutions to market—backed by a robust distribution network and a strong commitment to empowering modern construction across India.

School Of The Future At Techno India University In Collaboration With Make Calcutta Relevant Again Hosts Kolkata Design Fest ’25

Kolkata, 27th May, 2025: The School Of The Future at Techno India University, in collaboration with Make Calcutta Relevant Again, successfully hosted the Kolkata Design Fest ’25 – a vibrant, three-day celebration of design, sustainability and innovation held from 22nd – 24th May, 2025. Spread across multiple venues, the festival brought together hundreds of students, professionals and design enthusiasts, highlighting the transformative power of creativity and future-oriented thinking.

The festival opened on 22nd May, 2025 at the ESEDS Campus with a day dedicated to the theme of sustainability and innovation. The schedule featured a design competition and a masterclass on fashion and interior design, followed by interactive workshops on crochet, print making and digital illustration. Attendees also explored a thoughtfully curated photo art exhibition and a student showcase of print works throughout the day. The evening culminated in a stunning fashion show featuring upcycled couture and a lively disco night hosted by the student council, setting a festive tone for the days ahead.

On 23rd May, 2025 the focus shifted to École Intuit Lab, where participants took part in thought-provoking design competitions aimed at addressing environmental and social challenges. These included creating a billboard for climate action in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), reimagining sustainable packaging for eco-conscious brands, and designing impactful posters centered on urgent global issues. The day concluded with the launch of the school’s annual student exhibition, Prophecy: Echoes of the Future, which immersed visitors in a sensory-rich experience combining light, sound and visual storytelling to reflect on the future of designs.

The final day hosted at Techno India University offered a powerful closing to the festival. The day included keynote speeches and masterclasses curated by the Association of Designers of India (ADI), along with a special masterclass on typography led by renowned designer, Ms Shilpi Chauhan Chakraborty. Her session provided an in-depth exploration of the evolution and cultural impact of typography in design communication. The festival concluded with a grand prize distribution ceremony celebrating the winners of the competitions held on the first two days and a final fashion show by ESEDS students, showcasing fresh, sustainable design approaches. Sristi Barai bagged the first position, with Devangshi Samata and Debaisharjya Narayan Deb as the first and second runner ups respectively – and all three of them took home an iPad, a gorgeours memento and a goodie bag.

“Kolkata Design Fest ’25 was more than just a festival – it was a movement. We wanted to show the world that Kolkata is a serious design capital. This gathering of young creatives proved that innovation, sustainability, and culture can coexist and thrive when given the right platform”, said Mr Meghdut Roy Chowdhury, Chief Innovation Officer, Techno India Group and Founder, Make Calcutta Relevant Again.

“Our mission at Techno India has always been to nurture future leaders and change makers. With the School of the Future and initiatives like this fest, we are committed to fostering a design-driven mindset that addresses global challenges while celebrating local creativity”, said Prof Manoshi Roy Chowdhury, Co-chairperson, Techno India Group.

Kolkata Design Fest ’25 proved to be a landmark event, amplifying the voices of emerging designers and spotlighting how creativity can drive meaningful change. It successfully bridged traditional and contemporary design narratives, leaving a lasting impression on the city’s cultural and innovation landscape.

36% Increase in Stipend for Youth Under NAPS and NATS, Making Apprenticeship Training More Lucrative

Chandigarh, 27th May 2025: In a landmark move to make apprenticeship more rewarding and aspirational for India’s youth, the 38th Meeting of the Central Apprenticeship Council (CAC), chaired by Shri Jayant Chaudhary, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), recommends a 36% increase in stipend provided under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) and the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS).

The recommendation, which would revise the stipend range from the existing ₹5,000–₹9,000 to ₹6,800–₹12,300, aims to reduce dropout rates and attract more candidates across diverse sectors. Held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, the council reviewed India’s evolving apprenticeship landscape and discussed critical reforms to enhance the outcome.

Stipend revision was a key focus during the discussion, which is proposed to be automatically adjusted biennially based on changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), aligning with the salary increment cycle in July. This would be done under the administrative purview of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE) and later reported to the Committee under Rule 11 of the Apprenticeship Rules, 1992. The proposal will now be sent to the Cabinet for final approval.

In his keynote address, Shri Jayant Chaudhary said, “Apprenticeship is not just a skilling mechanism—it is a bridge that connects education, industry, and employment, especially for our rural youth. With NAPS and NATS as pillars supported by a strong legal framework, we are actively reforming the system to make it more inclusive, responsive, and aspirational. The introduction of micro-apprenticeships, optional trades, and greater autonomy to higher education institutions under NATS are part of our strategy to scale and deepen impact. Inclusivity is at the core of these programmes, and we have introduced key reforms to strengthen it. Our vision is to ensure every young person, regardless of background, gets a fair shot at a meaningful career through hands-on learning and industry exposure,”

The Council also emphasized key reforms to strengthen apprenticeship-integrated education and streamline policy frameworks under the Apprenticeship Rules, 1992.

A significant agenda item was the promotion of apprenticeship embedded education programmes, including the introduction of new definitions such as “Degree Apprenticeship,” “Institution,” “UGC,” and “Contractual Staff,” to align educational curricula with on-the-job training requirements.

It also proposed enabling employers to deliver Basic and Practical Training through online, virtual, or blended modes, ensuring flexibility in learning without compromising the quality or compliance with centrally approved curriculum.

Additionally, the meeting discussed the creation of Regional Boards at new locations to improve the administration and outreach of the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) and regulate the Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programme (AEDP), necessitating the insertion of a new clause in the Apprenticeship Rules.

The Council also emphasized inclusivity by proposing the insertion of a definition for “Person with Benchmark Disability” in line with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act. It recommended that trades or subject fields specify their suitability for persons with benchmark disabilities and reserve training places accordingly, promoting equitable access and participation in apprenticeship training.

The members also deliberated on a range of operational and policy-level issues to enhance the effectiveness of the apprenticeship programme. Among the key recommendations was the rationalization of stipends, with a suggestion to vary stipend amounts based on the location of apprenticeship to reflect local cost-of-living differences.

The 38th CAC meeting also proposed replacing the existing list of industries (1987 code) with one aligned to NIC Code 2008 thereby expanding the scope of Apprenticeship Training to include emerging sectors like IT, software services, telecommunications, biotechnology, and renewable energy. Any future updates in the industrial classification will automatically reflect in the Apprenticeship Rules.

Members also stressed the importance of expanding establishment coverage to bring more employers into the apprenticeship ecosystem. Addressing the risk of candidates discontinuing their apprenticeships midway, the Council underscored the need to make apprenticeship opportunities more attractive and rewarding. Another significant proposal involved notifying Craftsmen Training Scheme (CTS) courses and apprenticeship training simultaneously to ensure alignment. Additionally, the need for insurance coverage for apprentices during the contract period was discussed as a measure to provide greater security and protection for candidates.

Hon’ble Minister also unveiled a report by KPMG, titled “Data Analysis Report: National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (Feb 2018-April2025)”, which presents a comprehensive, data-driven review of apprenticeship trends under NAPS.

The previous CAC meeting was held in June 2021. Since then, India’s apprenticeship ecosystem has made significant strides. Offering a powerful combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience, apprenticeships have emerged as a credible alternative to traditional degrees. Under PM-NAPS, over 43.47 lakh apprentices have been engaged across 36 States and Union Territories as of 19 May 2025, with participation from more than 51,000 establishments. Notably, female participation has reached 20%, with focused efforts underway to boost this further. Simultaneously, the NATS scheme, aimed at graduates and diploma holders, has also grown steadily—enrolling over 5.23 lakh apprentices in FY 2024-25 alone.

The Council comprises representatives from Central Ministries, State Governments, industry (public and private), academia, labour bodies, and technical experts. Notable members include Chairpersons of BHEL, Indian Oil, Tata Group, Maruti Suzuki, Reliance Industries, NSDC, UGC, AICTE, and senior bureaucrats from Ministries such as Education, Labour, MSME, Railways, and Textiles. State apprenticeship advisors from ten key states and domain experts with experience in education, labour, and industry also serve on the Council.

The outcomes of the meeting are expected to shape the next wave of apprenticeship and skilling reforms in India, aligned with the broader vision of ‘Kushal Bharat, Viksit Bharat’.

DSP Prabhakar Assumes Charge as New Patancheru DSP

Sangareddy District, May 27, 2025: Prabhakar officially assumed responsibilities today as the new Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) for Patancheru. On this occasion, BJP District Secretary and Telecom Board Member Mr. Baindla Kumar met DSP Prabhakar and extended his best wishes.

Accompanying him were prominent advocate and BJP Girijan Morcha State Executive Member Mr. Angadi Balaraju, along with BJP District Mahila Morcha member and Disha Committee Member Ms. K. Sujatha.

The delegation conveyed their congratulations and assured their support in ensuring law and order in the region. The event marked a warm welcome for DSP Prabhakar as he begins his new role in maintaining public safety in the Patancheru region.

Understanding Hormonal Health in the Age of Burnout and Hustle Culture

By-Dr. Sumol Ratna, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, NIIMS Medical College & Hospital

 In an increasingly modern society of constant productivity and “hustle culture,” hormonal health is an ever-more crucial and often overlooked element of wellness. Chronic stress, poor sleep hygiene, or extreme workload make it difficult to maintain the already tenuous balance of the endocrine system, leading to hormone dysregulation with far-reaching systemic effects.

 The body’s stress response is controlled through the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which becomes hyperactivated during prolonged pure psychological and physical stress situations. Prolonged cortisol elevation, classically referred to as the “stress hormone,” can lead to adrenal fatigue, poor glucose metabolism, and reduced homeostatic immunological function in your body, or simply stated, it may be undermining all your healthy nutrition and mental-related wellness activities. The hormonal ire of chronically elevated cortisol is when elevated levels suppress gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRh), causing menstrual irregularities, diminished libido, and other potential infertility consequences in females and males.

 Simultaneously, erratic working hours and the light exposure of digital devices at night results in circadian misalignment that inhibits melatonin production, thus impairing sleep-wake cycles. This disruption affects the quality of sleep, but also negatively affects insulin sensitivity and the hormonal balance of leptin and ghrelin, leading to a state conducive to weight gain and the development of metabolic syndrome.

 Moreover, thyroid function is frequently altered and often worsened by chronic stress and nutrient deficiencies from poor eating patterns, particularly in an increasingly stressed-out population. Fatigue, cognitive fog, and mood changes, the hallmark signs of thyroid dysfunction, are often misdiagnosed as “burnout”, which covers up an undiagnosed endocrine dysfunction.

 The functioning of the dopaminergic system (responsible for motivation and reward processing) is also compromised. Constant overstimulation through production demands and computer work can inhibit dopamine receptors, which are associated with anhedonia and many aspects of depressed symptoms, two prominent characteristics of burnout.
Interventions must promote lifestyle medicine, which includes circadian rhythm control, stress reduction through mindfulness-based practices, sufficient diet with an emphasis on magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids, and consistent physical activity. Symptomatic people should be evaluated for endocrine markers such as serum cortisol, thyroid profile, reproductive hormones, and insulin sensitivity.

 The interplay between hormonal health and modern lifestyle stressors needs a multidisciplinary approach spanning medicine, psychology, and public health to mitigate long-term consequences in the age of chronic hustle.

From Kalam to the Asian Stage: Vasundhara’s Rise Through Chance2Sports

Pune: 26/05/2025 – Chance2Sports (C2S), the grassroots talent development platform, is proud to announce that two of its young athletes from the Kanga Kids program — Vasundhara and Anika — have earned their spots on the Indian team following standout performances at the Asian Junior Trials 2025.

 When a young girl like Vasundhara from a small town rises to the top in an elite sport like squash, it speaks volumes about how the game is expanding to every corner of the country. Her journey is a true inspiration.

 Hailing from Kalam—a small town with limited access to high-performance sports infrastructure—Vasundhara’s story is nothing short of extraordinary. She recently finished third in the Under-15 category and earned a place in the Indian national squad.

 Her achievement is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when raw talent is given the right opportunity and support. Vasundhara represents the future of Indian squash—and the promise of countless young athletes waiting to be discovered.

 Despite the financial challenges that come with self-sponsored participation at this level, Vasundhara’s family stood firmly behind her, and so did the Chance2Sports ecosystem. The platform continues to mentor and support athletes like her, ensuring that dreams aren’t lost due to a lack of access or support.

 Adding to the celebration was Anika, who clinched the top spot in the U-17 category, emerging as the No. 1 player in her division. At just 15, this golden girl continues to reach new heights, impressing with her calm presence and natural leadership. A proud ambassador for the Kanga Kids initiative, Anika is now firmly established as one of the most successful racket sports players to emerge from Pune.

 Speaking about this, Abhinav Sinha, coach of Chance2Sports, said, “Vasundhara’s story is why we started Chance2Sports, to discover untapped potential and create real pathways for athletes from every corner of the country. Her performance, her family’s belief, and her determination inspire us all. And with Anika continuing to raise the bar at the top level, we are seeing the vision of Kanga Kids come to life: where talent, no matter where it comes from, gets the chance to shine on the biggest stages.”

 The Kanga Kids programme by Chance2Sports focuses on early-stage talent scouting, technical training, and providing competitive exposure across India. Vasundhara and Anika’s selection to represent India reflects their individual drive and the structured support system built around them.

People by WTF x YouTube: Nikhil Kamath Unpacks the Creator Economy, AI, and the Future of Content with CEO Neal Mohan

National, May 26, 2025: In the latest episode of People by WTF, investor and entrepreneur Nikhil Kamath dives into an in-depth conversation with YouTube CEO Neal Mohan, exploring the evolution of the creator economy, content monetization, India’s growing cultural footprint in the digital world, and the platform’s bold bets on AI.

This candid conversation pulls back the curtain on YouTube’s next decade, with Neal Mohan sharing rare behind-the-scenes insights into how the platform brings it mission to “give everyone a voice and show them the world” to life – from thriving in the fast-evolving creator economy and harnessing AI for content innovation and protecting the rights of content owners.

The episode is a must-listen for content creators, media professionals, entrepreneurs, marketers, tech innovators, and anyone trying to stay ahead in the ever-evolving digital ecosystem. Key discussions include:

1. YouTube’s bet on podcasts: Nikhil points out that as trust in corporate-owned news channels declines, audiences are turning to podcasters who are perceived as more independent and authentic. “I feel that recently, people have gotten disillusioned by corporations owning news channels and assume the newscaster’s views will also be biased. And a podcaster seems to be more of an independent character. So the bias of the corporation doesn’t translate onto him. Why do you think people are moving to podcasts in the news information space?” Nikhil asks Neal.

Neal shares that while the U.S. elections last year were a pivotal point to bringing the success of podcasts on YouTube into focus, podcasts on YouTube are “an overnight success many years in the making.” YouTube’s early bet on podcasting was driven by the belief that users wouldn’t just listen but also want to watch conversations. This intuition proved right during the pandemic, when visual connection became more important than ever. Neal outlines YouTube’s three-part podcast strategy: 1) focus on visual consumption, 2) enable easy discovery, and 3) ensure built-in monetization, creating a space where independent voices thrive alongside traditional media.

“We bet on the fact that people would want to watch a conversation, not listen to it. Lots of people listen to podcasts on YouTube, but lots of people watch it. And obviously COVID was an accelerator. When people were at home, they wanted to see what was happening. There’s an enormous amount of podcast content that’s viewed not just on mobile phones, but on television screens.” says Neal.

2. YouTube’s creator-centric universe: Neal describes YouTube as a platform unlike social media or traditional TV – a global stage built by technologists where creators are in control. Emphasizing diversity in content and format, he explains that YouTube empowers creators with tools to express themselves freely, especially in linguistically and culturally rich markets like India. With features supporting multiple languages, screen types – from TV screens to smartphones to car radio, and content formats, YouTube aims to give diverse voices a platform for expression and engagement.

Speaking about YouTube’s goal, Neal shares, “Our ambition is to be a streaming service where you can watch, create, and share video, regardless of where you are in the world, who you are.” He explains YouTube’s role with an analogy. “We build the theater, we build the rooms in the theater, we build the stage, we build the seats, but you’re (creators are) the one who’s on the stage.”

3. Creators, the new start-ups of the entertainment industry, are shaping content trends of tomorrow: Nikhil asks Neal to predict what content and platforms will be viewed for engaging within a decade from now. Neal predicts that in a decade, current content trends, like YouTube’s growth in living rooms, will persist. He highlights that creator-led content production will become mainstream, with AI serving as a tool to enhance human creativity rather than replace it. Furthermore, he anticipates that consumers, particularly younger audiences, will drive the demand for all forms of content (long-form, Shorts, live, podcasts) to be consolidated in one place, accessible on any device they choose, making the “plethora of consumer choice even more dramatic.”

Neal offered examples of new AI tools, such as Dreamscreen, that allow creators to generate visuals, alter settings, or even dub content into multiple languages within seconds. These innovations are not just futuristic gimmicks but real tools driving speed, efficiency, and imagination. For creators, AI is quickly becoming the co-pilot of the creative process.

Describing YouTube’s work to bring the latest AI-powered tools to creators, Neal explains, “I get to work very closely with Google DeepMind every day, particularly in areas of audio and video with the VO models, et cetera. So I see how powerful that innovation can be. …(what) I think is also very important, is the applications of these models. At YouTube, our focus is really obviously working on the deep sort of technology and collaboration with DeepMind, but also just as much turning it into tools and features.”

4. Consistency over clout: how creators win: Nikhil asks Neal where young Indian entrepreneurs should focus on building influence today, and what practical tips they need to succeed on platforms like YouTube or social media. He says, “The line between an influencer and somebody who wants to start a business is fading in India, like it is elsewhere in the world. Many believe that to build influence, first one needs to build a product on top of that influence. Where should these people focus on building?”

Here, Neal offered a powerful reality check for anyone trying to build a career as a creator: content creation can’t just be a means to an end. If your only goal is to sell something, your audience will see through it. The first rule, according to Neal, is simple but essential: which is to be passionate about what you’re creating. If you’re genuinely excited about your content, that authenticity shines through and helps you build trust and a loyal following. The second piece of advice that Neal offers is to play the long game. YouTube isn’t about overnight virality. It’s a slow burn that rewards consistency and clarity. Creators should give themselves time to set expectations for their audience and for the algorithm, which is ultimately a reflection of audience engagement.

Neal underscores that success comes when you stay true to your voice, show up regularly, and let your content evolve with you, saying, “YouTube is really the home for creators. And I use that term creator specifically as opposed to influencer or what have you. Because the primary purpose of your presence and investment on YouTube has to be the act of creation, about having an idea, whatever the topic, whether it’s funny, whether it’s sports, whether it’s business, and sharing it.”

 He goes on to share that creators who have found success on the platform consider YouTube to be “their home”, because “it is a place where they have that connection to their audience in a way that is deeper and more authentic than they can get anywhere else.”

5. Content trends entrepreneurs can’t ignore: Nikhil, wearing his investor hat, asks where he should invest between Spotify, YouTube, movie theaters, Hollywood studios, or news networks, and asks Neal to offer five non-obvious insights to help entrepreneurs grow their business through content. Neal delivered five sharp insights: 1) Creators own their story and pace, 2) Instant feedback helps iterate faster, 3) Content is borderless, 4) Multi-screen consumption is rising, and 5) Revenue streams must evolve.

Neal emphasized that entrepreneurs should stop thinking of YouTube as just an ad platform. From direct fan funding to merch, creators must innovate in how they monetize. He also shared data on the explosion of creator-led global businesses originating from India, showcasing how content is becoming a launchpad for entrepreneurship.

Sharing how truly authentic content can find success across the world, Neal shares that “You have to be someone who’s truly entrepreneurial in the best sense, like someone who’s willing to work hard and really give into their passion. And I see that every time I’m here in India. And I really think that that’s where all of this success has come from. Something like on the order of 15%, which translates to about 45 billion hours of watch time of content created by Indian creators, is actually consumed outside of India. So it’s an exporter of ideas and culture.”

6. Battling Piracy: YouTube’s Silent War: Responding to concerns about piracy raised by Nikhil, Neal acknowledged it as a persistent challenge. He detailed YouTube’s two-pronged approach: using DRM and friction-based deterrents to limit content theft, and applying policy tools to disrupt unauthorized distribution.

While acknowledging that perfect protection is elusive, Neal assured that YouTube has one of the most robust frameworks in place to balance creator rights with viewer accessibility. Addressing concerns about film releases on YouTube, Neal shared the platform’s two-part approach: powerful DRM technologies to discourage theft, and strict policy enforcement to curb unauthorized distribution. He acknowledged the limitations but stressed that YouTube’s anti-piracy systems are among the most robust globally. For creators and filmmakers, this means a safer space to publish and monetize long-form, high-value content. Neal also teased upcoming features to better protect IP and expand revenue channels.