The Great Gujarati Matrimony Premieres on ShemarooMe
Start the new year on a romantic note as ShemarooMe premieres The Great Gujarati Matrimony on January 18, 2025. Woven with love, cultural nuances, and personal discovery, the film is set to captivate audiences worldwide. With a stellar cast, relatable emotions, and a fresh perspective on modern relationships, this film offers the perfect blend of romance and tradition, ready to warm your hearts this winter.
Directed by Preetsinh Gohil and produced by Divyesh Doshi and Jagat Gandhi, the movie follows three compelling characters—Iti, played by Siddhi Idnani, an aspiring actress with big dreams and a kind heart, Raaghav, played by Mitra Gadhvi, a cheerful owner of a matrimonial agency who deals with the ups and downs of relationships every day, and Ved, portrayed by Devarshi Shah, a practical investment banker from Canada whose return to India sets off emotional and cultural changes in his life.
As their paths cross, the story explores the challenges of love, balance between traditions and modern life, and the power of connection. As love blooms and challenges arise, the film unravels the true essence of relationships and growth in a rapidly changing world.
The movie also stars Hiten Kumar, Tatsat Munshi, Jhanvi Gurnani, and Sucheeta Trivedi, adding depth to this touching story.
Speaking about his role as Raaghav, Mitra Gadhvi shares, “Playing Raaghav in The Great Gujarati Matrimony was a rollercoaster ride, much like the character himself. Raaghav is more than just a matchmaker—he’s a believer in love, and someone who finds joy even in life’s chaos. What makes him special is his ability to connect with people, bringing humor and heart to every situation. This story isn’t just about finding love—it’s about celebrating our roots, embracing change, and discovering who we are. I’m thrilled to be part of a film that brings laughter, emotion, and a slice of Gujarati culture to audiences of all ages.”
Siddhi Idnani shares, “The Great Gujarati Matrimony is a heartfelt story about love, family, and the choices that shape our lives. It’s about finding the balance between following your heart and staying true to your roots. Bringing Iti to life has been an incredible journey. She’s a dreamer with stars in her eyes but also a strong sense of who she is and where she comes from. Iti’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and staying true to your values, even when life gets complicated. The Great Gujarati Matrimony beautifully reflects the evolving dynamics of relationships in today’s world. I’m excited for the audience to see pieces of their own lives reflected in these characters and hope the film leaves them with a smile and a sense of connection.”
Wellbeing Nutrition Launches “Unhustle Fitness” Campaign
Delhi, India – 20th January 2025 – Wellbeing Nutrition, India’s leading health and wellness company, has joined forces with three iconic voices in fitness and sports to amplify the bold narrative of its new Unhustle Fitness campaign. Featuring Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, celebrated Indian football goalkeeper; Nayana James, renowned Indian athlete; and Lakshya, an ace movie actor, the campaign brings together individuals who embody the philosophy of balance, resilience, and recovery.
The Unhustle Fitness campaign is rewriting the rules of fitness for a generation ready to slow down and focus on holistic wellness. By dismantling the grind-driven narratives of traditional fitness, Wellbeing Nutrition is encouraging 1 billion Indians to embrace recovery as the foundation of true strength. Anchored in its innovative whey protein line, the campaign highlights products designed to support muscle strength and recovery while promoting sustainable fitness goals.
India’s sports nutrition market is projected to reach US$ 7,223 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 9.1%. This reflects a growing acceptance of products that promote holistic well-being and sustainable fitness. Wellbeing Nutrition, as a leader in this evolving space, is leveraging these shifts with its science-backed solutions and a fresh perspective focused on recovery rather than hustle culture.
“Partnering with individuals who embody the philosophy of Unhustle Fitness allows us to amplify our message and reach a broader audience. Recovery is not just a fitness trend; it’s a paradigm shift that is here to stay,” said Avnish Chhabria, Founder, & Saurabh Kapoor, Co-Founder of Wellbeing Nutrition. “By collaborating with Gurpreet, Nayana, and Lakshya, we aim to inspire people from all walks of life to embrace a balanced, resilient, and sustainable fitness journey. Together, we are redefining what it means to be strong—not through hustle, but through recovery and endurance.”
The Unhustle Fitness campaign is also anchored in Wellbeing Nutrition’s competitive line of whey protein products, crafted to improve muscle strength and endurance. The range, which includes Whey Protein Isolate Unflavored, Whey Protein Isolate Dark Chocolate, Whey Protein Blend Swiss Chocolate, Whey Protein Blend Cappuccino, and Whey Protein Concentrate Unflavored, offers a clean, gut-friendly protein solution for workouts, recovery, and daily nutrition
Gargi by PNGS Launches Kids Jewellery Collection
Pune,20/01/2025: Gargi by P N Gadgil & Sons (PNGS), a distinguished name in the fashion jewellery realm, has launched its first-ever Kids Collection. Featuring whimsical pieces such as the Coloured Paw Finger Ring, Dual Heart Necklace, Rapid Unicorn Finger Ring, Orange Fish Finger Ring, Moonshine Finger Ring, and Cloudy Rainbow Finger Ring, this collection promises to add sparkle and joy to little ones’ everyday moments.
This launch reaffirms Gargi’s vision of being a jewellery brand that caters to everyone. By extending its offerings to children, Gargi underscores the growing trend of kids becoming a focal point in fashion, proving that age is no barrier to style. The new collection, crafted with 92.5% certified sterling silver, ensures both quality and safety for young wearers. Each piece is designed with rounded edges and secure fastenings to prevent any potential harm, reflecting our commitment to the well-being of our young customers.
The expansion follows a milestone year for Gargi by PNGS. With a market capitalization now exceeding ₹1,500 crore, the brand continues to cement its position as a leader in the fashion jewellery space. This growth, fuelled by a robust product lineup and customer trust, highlights Gargi’s ability to stay ahead of trends while staying true to its heritage of craftsmanship, giving our customers confidence in their choices.
Speaking about this, Aditya Modak, co-founder of Gargi by P N Gadgil & Sons, said, “The Kids Collection is a testament to our belief that jewellery is for everyone—no matter their age. Each piece is thoughtfully designed to capture the joy and wonder of childhood while ensuring the highest standards of quality and care.”
With this latest addition, Gargi now offers a diverse range of jewellery for every member of the family, living up to its promise of being a brand for all. Whether it’s festive celebrations or everyday wear, Gargi ensures everyone, regardless of age, can shine in their unique way.
Since its inception, Gargi by PNGS has been redefining the fashion jewellery market with innovative designs that cater to modern style preferences while honouring traditional craftsmanship. We are also committed to sustainability, using recycled materials in our packaging and implementing eco-friendly practices in our production processes. With a growing presence across Maharashtra and now Delhi, the franchise model plays a major role in the brand’s expansion strategy. Supported by the legacy of P N Gadgil & Sons, a company with an annual turnover exceeding INR 8,500 crore, Gargi is well on its way to achieving its ambitious goal of a 100-crore revenue target by March 2025.
Disney+ Hotstar to Launch Sweet Dreams
Mumbai, January 20, 2025: With the season of love just around the corner Disney+ Hotstar has released a beautiful and indelible love story titled Sweet Dreams. Starring the gorgeous Mithila Palkar and the versatile Amol Parashar in the lead roles, the trailer has been receiving rave reviews from viewers. Director Victor Mukherjee ticks all the boxes to come up with a story that perfectly aligns and captures the essence of today’s millennial love. While not giving away much, the trailer takes us through the journey of our protagonist Kenny and Dia who define serendipity in today’s time.
At its core, Sweet Dreams follows Kenny, a 29-year-old recycling artist trying to move on from a painful breakup, and Dia, an aspiring songwriter juggling an uncertain career while navigating her current relationship. Their lives take an extraordinary turn when a viral meme bridges their dreams, leaving them questioning the fine line between reality and imagination. Directed by Victor Mukherjee, the story captures the delicate nuances of modern relationships, millennial aspirations and poses a strong question – How far will you go to chase your dreams? Or will you choose reality; joh itni bhi buri nahi hoti!
Director Victor Mukherjee said, “Sweet Dreams is more than just a love story. It’s a journey into the subconscious, exploring the millennial desire to chase the extraordinary while often missing the beauty of the present. With the film, I wanted to give audiences a taste of the magnificent yet grounded tone of the film. I’m thrilled with how Mithila and Amol brought Kenny and Dia to life with such authenticity and heart and hope the audiences enjoy it.
Mithila Palkar who essays the character of Dia expressed, “Dia’s story is one that many of us will relate to because she is confused, ambitious, and yearning for something beyond. The dreams she shares with Kenny aren’t just about romance; they’re about understanding what truly matters. Shooting this film felt like an emotional journey, and I hope the trailer gives viewers a glimpse of the magic we’ve tried to create. This couldn’t have been possible without the vision of Victor sir and an amazing co-star like Anmol. With a platform like Disney+ Hotstar having our back, we hope we are able to conquer horizons and travel leaps and bounds with the help of our film”
Amol Parashar who brings to life Kenny added, “Kenny is a character who’s stuck between his past and the possibility of poignant connection. Playing him was an intense yet fulfilling experience. The trailer reflects how Sweet Dreams beautifully combines realism with the fantastical elements. I am glad I got to perform such a dynamic character where I could draw parallels with my life personally and doing this alongside a talented co-star Mithila Palkar. I can’t wait for the audience to dive into this dreamy world with us only on Disney+ Hotstar!”
Produced by Jio Studios & Mango People Media, starring – Mithila Palkar, Amol Parashar, Meiyang Chang, Sauraseni Maitra, Sweet Dreams is produced by Jyoti Deshpande, Neha Anand, Pranjal Khandhiya.
EET Hydrogen and ENKA Partner for UK’s Leading Hydrogen Plant
Chandigarh, January 20, 2025: Essar Energy Transition (EET) Hydrogen has today signed an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (“EPC”) contract with ENKA for its flagship low carbon hydrogen production plant (HPP1) at the Stanlow Manufacturing Complex in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire.
In October 2024, the UK Government announced funding had been agreed to support HPP1 as the UK’s first large-scale low carbon hydrogen project at the heart of the HyNet Cluster. HPP1 will have a production capacity of 350MW and will capture around 600,000 tonnes of CO2 a year – the equivalent to taking around 250,000 cars off the road.
This represents a major milestone for the HPP1 project, for the UK hydrogen industry, the HyNet Cluster and for EET Hydrogen’s progress towards its goal of developing 4GW of low carbon hydrogen production for industrial businesses across the North West of England to decarbonise their operations, protecting jobs and driving economic growth.
ENKA is a global engineering and construction firm headquartered in Istanbul, Turkey, where it is ranked amongst the country’s most valuable brands. Specialising in engineering and construction, power generation, real estate and trade, ENKA is most well-known in the UK for the construction of its flagship projects, Hinkley Point Power Plant in Somerset and the Shotton Mill Paper Mill Factory in Flintshire.
Joe Seifert, CEO of EET Hydrogen, said: “Following a highly competitive tender process, we are excited to announce this critical contract with ENKA. Having been awarded over 580 contracts in 57 countries, ENKA has an excellent track record in delivering complex projects like HPP1. The team brings a wealth of experience, and we are delighted to partner with as we deliver on our ambition to become the UK’s premier producer of low carbon hydrogen.”
Hakan Kozan, Member of the Executive Committee at ENKA, said “We are thrilled to partner with EET Hydrogen on the HPP1 project, a transformative initiative that will play a key role in advancing the UK’s low carbon hydrogen industry and contributing to global decarbonisation efforts.
“As a global engineering and construction company, we bring expertise, engineered solutions, and a commitment to excellence to every project we undertake. This project reinforces our commitment to supporting the HyNet Cluster’s mission of reducing emissions and fostering sustainable economic growth. We look forward to delivering a safe and successful project for our distinguished customer.”
AAO NXT Unveils 2025 Indigenous Blockbusters
India, 20 January 2025: Odisha’s premium OTT platform, AAO NXT, continues its mission to bring the finest Odia entertainment to audiences worldwide. In a recent announcement, the platform revealed an impressive lineup of movies set to release this year, showcasing a diverse range of genres, stories, and talents. Staying committed to promoting Odia culture and cinema, AAO NXT promises that many more exciting titles will be added to their roster later this year.
Kaushik Das, the visionary Founder and CEO of AAO NXT, expressed his excitement about the upcoming releases: “At AAO NXT, our mission has always been to celebrate Odia culture and bring its rich heritage to the global stage through compelling storytelling. The slate of movies we’re unveiling for 2025 reflects our commitment to authenticity, innovation, and excellence in regional cinema. Each film showcases the depth of talent in our industry and tells stories that resonate with audiences, not just in Odisha but worldwide. We aim to position Odia cinema as a benchmark for regional storytelling, offering a seamless, world-class streaming experience to our users. We look forward to creating a meaningful impact with these stories and inviting audiences to be part of this transformative journey in the world of entertainment.”
With a commitment to showcasing the region’s rich culture, untold stories, and exceptional talent, AAO NXT promises an unforgettable year for its viewers. Here’s a sneak peek at the upcoming blockbusters:
1. PABAR
Director: Ashok Pati
Produced By: Trupti Satapathy
Writers: Amit Kumar Dash, Pranab Prasanna Rath
Starring: Babushaan Mohanty, Choudhury Jayaprakash Das, Krishna Kar, Elina Samantray, Aparajita Mohanty, Rabi Mishra
PABAR tells the inspiring journey of Benudhar Kandi, a simple villager from Gumagarh, who reluctantly contests in local elections at the behest of a contractor duo. Winning the election changes his perspective as he discovers their true motives and assumes responsibility for his village’s development. With its engaging storyline, stellar performances, and cultural authenticity, the film is loosely based on true events and promises to leave a lasting impact.
2. KUHUDI
Director: Ajay Padhi
Produced By: Himadri Tanaya Das
Writers: Anil Barik, Amit Kumar Dash, Ajay Padhi
Starring: Anubhav Mohanty, Dipanwit Dashmohapatra, Prakruti Mishra, Anshuman Patnaik, Supriya Nayak, Kuna Tripathy
In KUHUDI, a poignant tale of parental alienation unfolds as Sagar Mishra faces accusations of a horrific crime against his daughter. Amidst the shadows of deception, lawyer Anshuman Patnaik embarks on a relentless pursuit of justice, uncovering dark truths and igniting hope. This emotionally gripping film sheds light on societal injustices and the resilience of the human spirit.
3. ATITHI
Director: Ajay Padhi
Produced By: Sthita Pattanaik
Starring: Anu Choudhury, Abhishek Giri, Manoj Mishra, Divyadisha Mohanty, Sayal Mukherjee, Sarbeswar Sutar
ATITHI is a suspenseful thriller about three educated individuals who murder a state minister and take a family hostage in their attempt to flee. A determined police officer leads a gripping investigation to uncover the truth in this edge-of-the-seat narrative.
4. DELIVERY BOY
Director: Ashwin Tripathy
Produced By: Jyoti Ranjan Mohanty
Writers: Deepak Jena, Ashwin Tripathy
Starring: Suryamayee Mahapatra, Sailendra Samantaray, Priyambada Swain & Others
This heartwarming drama explores the struggles and resilience of delivery boys navigating the challenges of middle-class life. DELIVERY BOY sheds light on the untold stories of those striving for a better future.
5. NIYATI
Director: Pinaki Srichandan
Produced By: Premalatha Routray, Samaresh Routray
Writer: Pinaki Srichandan
Starring: Sudhanshu Narayan Dash, Divyadisha Mohanty, Samaresh Routray, Krishna Kar & Others
NIYATI is a gripping survival story of a family man ensnared in financial fraud and subsequently kidnapped by four blackmailers. The film unravels his desperate fight for survival amidst life-threatening circumstances.
6. TRUSHNA
Director: Suresh Patnaik
Writer: Suresh Patnaik
Produced By: Naveen Bhandari
Starring: Sailendra Samantaray, Abhishek Giri, Suryamayee Mahapatra, Samaresh Routray & Others
An anthology, TRUSHNA, explores the emotional struggles, dreams, and aspirations of four artists striving for creative fulfillment in a world obsessed with material success. It is a moving portrayal of hope and perseverance amidst societal pressures.
With such a diverse and engaging lineup, AAO NXT reaffirms its position as a torchbearer for Odia entertainment, this year’s releases promise to captivate audiences and showcase the best of Odia storytelling.
Fitspiration on TV: 2025’s Most Athletic Stars
As fitness becomes a cornerstone of modern living, Indian television stars are leading the charge with their inspiring fitness journeys. From intense workouts to holistic health practices, these actors are redefining fitness goals while managing demanding careers. Their commitment to staying fit not only enhances their on-screen charisma but also motivates fans to prioritize health. Whether showcasing strength, endurance, or mindfulness, these stars prove that fitness is more than a trend—it’s a lifestyle. Here’s a look at the top Indian TV actors for fitness inspiration in 2025.
Karanveer Mehra – Bigg Boss 18(Colors)
Karanveer Mehra, a fan favorite on Bigg Boss 18 on Colors, is redefining fitness in the reality TV arena. With his well-toned physique and unstoppable energy, Karanveer makes staying active a priority even amidst the drama of the Bigg Boss house. His dedication to regular workouts and his ability to excel in physical tasks set him apart. By balancing fitness and strategy, Karanveer inspires viewers to embrace both physical and mental toughness.
Zohaib Siddiqui – Main Dil Tum Dhadkan (Shemaroo Umang)
Zohaib Siddiqui, the heartthrob of Shemaroo Umang’s Main Dil Tum Dhadkan, is as committed to fitness as he is to his craft. With a lean and powerful build, Zohaib focuses on core strength and endurance, making his workouts as dynamic as his performances. His passion for health resonates with fans striving to stay active, while his workout snippets on social media keep the motivation high. Zohaib’s unwavering dedication to fitness makes him a standout personality to follow in 2025.
Rohit Purohit – Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (Star Plus)
Rohit Purohit, the charismatic star of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai on Star Plus,has been a fitness inspiration. His perfectly sculpted physique is a result of his dedication to strength training and functional workouts. Always pushing his limits, Rohit’s commitment to health enhances his screen presence and motivates fans to achieve their fitness goals. Whether dazzling viewers with his acting or sharing his workout grind on social media, Rohit proves that perseverance truly pays off.
Vineet Kumar Chaudhary – Karmadhikari Shanidev (Shemaroo TV)
Vineet Kumar Chaudhary, the lead of Karmadhikari Shanidev on Shemaroo TV, exemplifies fitness as a lifestyle. Known for his athletic build, his discipline and mindfulness practices shine through both on-screen as well as off-screen. From pulling off a strong role to maintaining peak physical form, Vineet’s unwavering dedication to fitness inspires viewers to embrace both physical and mental toughness.
Avinash Mishra – Bigg Boss 18(Colors)
Avinash Mishra, a standout contestant on Bigg Boss 18, is setting fitness goals with his unwavering discipline. Known for his athletic frame, Avinash takes every opportunity inside the house to stay active, from quick exercises to dominating in challenging tasks. His focus and energy inspire fans to prioritize fitness, even in the busiest schedules. Avinash’s fitness journey, combined with his strategic gameplay, makes him one of the most exciting actors to watch this year.
Kanwar Dhillon – Udne Ki Aasha on (Star Plus)
Kanwar Dhillon, the lead of Udne Ki Aasha on Star Plus, is a fitness aficionado who exemplifies strength and resilience. Renowned for his impressive physique, Kanwar’s workout sessions are a perfect mix of heavy lifting and endurance training. His consistency and determination are evident, even with a demanding acting schedule. Fans admire Kanwar not just for his on-screen charisma but also for his relentless pursuit of fitness, making him a true inspiration.
Nykaa Signs Rasha Thadani as Brand Ambassador
Mumbai, 20 January, 2025: Nykaa, India’s leading beauty and lifestyle destination, is proud to announce Rasha Thadani as the new face of Nykaa Cosmetics, one of the country’s leading color cosmetics brands. As she makes her much-anticipated Bollywood debut in Azaad, Rasha embodies the vibrant, trend-forward ethos of Nykaa Cosmetics.
Rasha’s youthful elegance, contemporary charm and genuine authenticity allow her to connect with the pulse of her generation, making her a natural fit for Nykaa Cosmetics, a brand known for delivering innovative and high-quality formulations in playful, and high-performing product formats.This collaboration promises to inspire self-expression and elevate the beauty landscape in India.
Nykaa Cosmetics continues to lead in the beauty industry with innovative product launches that combine world-class formulations with a deep understanding of diverse beauty needs. From the Superlight range, designed with breathable, skin-friendly formulations suited to Indian weather, to Lip Glaze, Get Cheeky, Dual Chrome, Butter Bomb, and PH Shimmer, Nykaa’s recent launches highlight its ability to anticipate trends and inspire self-expression, making it the go-to brand for modern beauty enthusiasts.
Adwaita Nayar, Executive Director, CEO Nykaa Fashion and Head of Owned Brands, shared: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Rasha into the Nykaa family. She is everything that embodies the spirit of Gen Z—fearless, unapologetic, and relentlessly true to herself. Her dynamic energy, authentic style, and bold approach to beauty perfectly reflect what Nykaa stands for: empowerment, individuality, and the freedom to express yourself without limits. At Nykaa, we’ve always believed that beauty should be as unique as the person wearing it. With Nykaa Cosmetics’ trend-forward innovations and Rasha’s charisma, we are confident this partnership will empower young consumers to confidently make their own beauty statements.”
Rasha Thadani shared her love for Nykaa: “Nykaa has always been my go-to for all things beauty—it’s where I fell in love with experimenting, trying cool looks, and really expressing myself. Collaborating with Nykaa Cosmetics now feels like a total dream! I think beauty is all about embracing your vibe and owning every version of yourself. What I love about Nykaa is how it celebrates individuality and makes beauty fun and totally fluid—it’s all about exploring and just doing you!”
As Nykaa Cosmetics continues to set new standards in the beauty industry, this partnership marks an exciting milestone in its journey. Launched in 2015, Nykaa Cosmetics identified a gap in the market for on-trend, high-performing beauty products tailored to Indian consumers.As one of the first brands to introduce liquid lipstick in India, Nykaa Cosmetics expanded its portfolio to a wide range of makeup products, all crafted with cutting-edge international formulations. Nykaa Cosmetics has always been consumer-first, committed to delivering high-quality products that resonate with Indian culture while empowering Gen Z and millennial consumers to express their creativity and individuality. With its playful and dynamic brand persona, Nykaa Cosmetics redefined beauty standards, establishing itself as the go-to destination for young, trend-driven beauty enthusiasts across India. Constantly evolving to meet the diverse needs of its audience, the brand ensures that everyone can find something to love in its extensive collection.
Third Wave Coffee Opens 125th Cafe in Chennai
Bengaluru, 20 January 2025: Third Wave Coffee, the coffee-first QSR brand, has launched its 125th café, debuting in Chennai. This milestone reflects the brand’s mission to transform the country’s coffee culture, creating spaces where every sip sparks connections. The brand aims to be present across 150 cafes in the next two months, bringing its signature offerings and community-driven approach to more coffee-lovers in the country.
The 125th cafe marks Third Wave Coffee’s entry into Tamil Nadu’s vibrant capital, Chennai, a city celebrated for its cultural richness and energy. The brand continues its journey to redefine India’s café culture with its recent expansions. With a presence across 10 cities including Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Pune, Hyderabad and Chandigarh, Third Wave Coffee is creating community centric spaces designed for creativity and connection.
Commenting on the milestone, Rajat Luthra, CEO, Third Wave Coffee, said, “What began with a dream to elevate the way India experiences coffee, has today evolved into something truly special, fueled by the love and support of our customers. Our journey with Third Wave Coffee has been a mission to deliver an exceptional coffee experience to more & more customers, wherever they are. From the onset, we have aimed to design ambiences where each visit to our cafe is as memorable as the coffee we serve. As we celebrate our 125th café in Chennai, we’re energized by the trust of our customers. Looking ahead, we aim to close FY2024-25 with 150 cafés, bringing our signature experience to an even larger and more diverse community.”
Staying true to its brand ethos of quality, innovation, and connection, Third Wave Coffee seamlessly blends specialty coffee, cutting-edge brewing techniques, and thoughtfully designed spaces to deliver a modern and distinctive experience for today’s coffee enthusiasts. Every element of Third Wave Coffee, from its single-origin coffees, refreshing cold brews to its handcrafted menu of savory bites and desserts, is designed to delight. Furthermore, each cafe is tailored to nurture creativity and connection, often hosting events, workshops, and collaborations that bring people together in unique ways.
Third Wave Coffee’s journey is also marked by initiatives like cafés led by all-women teams and those operated by specially-abled team members. These reflect the brand’s commitment to inclusion and respect, fostering a culture of equality. As Third Wave Coffee continues to expand, it remains committed to reshaping India’s coffee landscape while building stronger community connections.
IIT Roorkee Hosts Winter School on Globalization & Leadership
Roorkee, January 20, 2025: Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) in collaboration with Lancaster University and Birmingham University (UK), and NIT Rourkela, successfully concluded a five-day Winter School on “Globalization, Development, Gender, and Leadership.” the event was held at the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, IIT Roorkee, under the aegis of SPARC (Scheme for Promotion of Academic and Research Collaboration) and the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Ministry of Education, Government of India. The convenor (project director) and co-convenors are Prof. Pratap Mohanty (IIT Roorkee), Prof. Pavel Chakraborty (Lancaster University, UK) and Prof. Narayan Sethi (NIT Rourkela).
The Winter School brought together renowned academicians, policymakers, and practitioners to discuss critical issues surrounding gender dynamics in enterprise growth and globalization. The program commenced with a one-day policy workshop, inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee, and Guest of Honour Shri Mrutyunjay Behera, Economic Advisor (Joint Secretary), Ministry of Education, Government of India.
In his address, Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant emphasized the importance of inclusive leadership in driving economic growth. He stated, “At IIT Roorkee, we are committed to fostering research and discussions that address global challenges. This Winter School is a significant step toward understanding and bridging the gender gap in leadership and enterprise, contributing to sustainable and inclusive development.”
The event also featured insightful deliberations from prominent experts representing institutions such as Ashoka University, Indian Institutes of Management, Azim Premji University, and Shiv Nadar University, as well as organizations like the World Bank, Good Business Labs, and IWWAGE.
Shri Mrutyunjay Behera remarked, “Gender parity is not just a moral imperative but an economic necessity. The deliberations at this Winter School highlight actionable insights that can influence policy and empower women to take leadership roles, enhancing organizational and national performance. The government has been taking a host of proactive steps in the direction”
Key topics discussed included the gender wage gap, labour force participation, and the transformative role of female leadership in boosting productivity, innovation, and financial performance in organizations. With India facing significant gender disparities in labour force participation—only 25% of women are active in the workforce, according to the latest PLFS data—the discussions highlighted pathways to achieve gender parity and its potential to add up to $770 billion to India’s GDP by 2025 (McKinsey, 2018).
The Winter School concluded with a renewed commitment to fostering collaborative research and policy innovation aimed at addressing gender disparities and promoting inclusive leadership. IIT Roorkee continues to lead such impactful initiatives, contributing to India’s progress toward a more equitable and prosperous future.