WeWork India awarded ISO 14001, ISO 45001 certifications across its entire portfolio
Bengaluru, January 20, 2025: WeWork India Management Limited (“WeWork India”), one of India’s leading flexible workspace operators, has been awarded the prestigious ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 certifications across its entire portfolio, reaffirming its ongoing commitment to sustainability, and workplace health and safety. Previously limited to its headquarters, this renewed recognition reflects the organisation’s efforts to uphold globally recognised standards across all its locations.
The ISO 14001 certification – an internationally recognised standard for environmental management systems – highlights WeWork India’s consistent focus on improving environmental performance and responsibly managing its environmental impact, aligning with its vision for a sustainable future. Similarly, the ISO 45001 is an international standard that specifies requirements for an occupational health and safety (OH&S) management system. This certification underscores its commitment to maintaining a robust health and safety framework, ensuring secure and efficient spaces for employees, members, and visitors alike.
Commenting on this, Karan Virwani, Managing Director & CEO, WeWork India, said: “This is a significant milestone in our journey towards creating sustainable workspaces that meet the global standards. These certifications further strengthen WeWork India’s leadership in building long-term sustainable work environments. We will continue to lead the way in building a workplace culture that prioritises sustainability and wellbeing.”
WeWork India is currently operational across 8 cities, with over 1 lakh desks, and committed to continuously improving the environmental standards and health & safety practices. With solutions for all kinds of businesses – solopreneurs and start-ups to Fortune 500 companies – WeWork India offers workspace solutions that deliver a quality experience.
Veritas Finance Limited files DRHP with SEBI for an IPO
Bengaluru, January 20, 2025 – Veritas Finance Limited, a retail focused non-deposit taking NBFC registered with the Reserve Bank of India (“RBI”), and under the scale-based regulations of the RBI, classified as an ‘NBFC-Middle Layer’, has filed the Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with SEBI for an Initial Public Offering (IPO).
As a diversified, retail-focused NBFC, it primarily provides small business loans to micro, small and medium enterprises (“MSMEs”) and self-employed individuals, and over the years, has expanded its business to include home loans and used commercial vehicle loans.
The public offer aggregating up to Rs. 2,800 crore comprises of a fresh issue of equity shares aggregating up to Rs. 600 crore (“THE FRESH ISSUE”) and an offer for sale of equity shares aggregating up to Rs. 2,200 crore by the Selling Shareholders (“OFFER FOR SALE”) with a face value of ₹10 each per equity share. The public offer includes a reservation of equity shares for subscription by Eligible employees (“EMPLOYEE RESERVATION PORTION”).
The company proposes to utilize the net proceeds towards augmenting their capital base to meet future business requirements of the company towards onward lending.
The Offer for Sale of upto Rs. 2,200 crore comprises of equity shares aggregating up to Rs. 550 crore by Norwest Venture Partners X – Mauritius; upto Rs. 550 crore by Kedaara Capital Fund II LLP; upto Rs. 500 crore by British International Investment plc; upto Rs. 425 crore by Lok Capital Growth Fund; upto Rs. 75 crore by Growth Catalyst Partners LLC (Collectively Referred to as the “Investor Selling Shareholders”) and equity shares aggregating upto Rs. 36 crore by Vidya Arulmany; upto Rs. 21 crore by P. Surendra Pai; upto Rs. 21 crore by Savita S. Pai; upto Rs. 14 crore by Sheela Pai Cole and upto Rs. 8 crore by Moneisha Sharad Gandhi (Collectively The “Individual Selling Shareholder” and along with The Investor Selling Shareholders As The “Selling Shareholders”) (“OFFER FOR SALE”, And together with THE FRESH ISSUE, The “OFFER”).]
The company, in consultation with the BRLMs, may consider a Pre-IPO placement of specified securities aggregating upto Rs. 120 crore as may be permitted under applicable law, prior to filing of the red herring prospectus with the roc (“PRE-IPO PLACEMENT”). The Pre-IPO placement, if undertaken, will be at a price to be decided by the company, in consultation with the BRLMs. If the PRE-IPO placement is completed, the amount raised pursuant to the PRE-IPO placement will be reduced from the fresh Issue, subject to compliance with rule 19(2)(b) of the securities contracts (regulation) rules, 1957, as amended.
Established in 2015, Veritas Finance is a non-deposit taking non-banking financial company (“NBFC”) registered with the Reserve Bank of India (“RBI”), and under the scale-based regulations of the RBI, is classified as an ‘NBFC-Middle Layer’. As a diversified, retail-focused NBFC, it primarily provide small business loans to micro, small and medium enterprises (“MSMEs”) and self-employed individuals, and over the years, have expanded its business to include home loans and used commercial vehicle loans. According to CRISIL MI&A, it is the fastest-growing NBFC in terms of Loans (AUM) growth among compared peers for the period between the Financial Years 2022 to 2024, with a compounded annual growth rate (“CAGR”) of 61.76%. The company focuses on addressing the financial needs of underserved and underbanked MSMEs and individuals by providing access to credit.
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.
Enjoy the Spirit of India with a Special Republic Day Brunch at Hyatt Centric MG Road, Bangalore
Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore invites you to indulge in a grand Republic Day Brunch, crafted to honor the rich and diverse culinary heritage of India. Held at the iconic Bengaluru Brasserie, this spectacular feast promises an unforgettable gastronomic experience, celebrating the flavors that define the nation.
Guests can savor an exquisite spread of 76 dishes, representing India’s vast culinary repertoire. The menu features authentic regional delicacies, complemented by vibrant live counters offering freshly prepared delights. Whether you’re a connoisseur of classic Indian flavors or someone looking to explore, there’s something to tantalize every palate.
Event Details:
Date: 26th January 2025
Time: 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM
Venue: The Bengaluru Brasserie, Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore
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.
Gargi by PNGS Debuts Elegant Kids Collection, Enriching Its Jewellery Portfolio
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.
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.
Ambuja Cements’ SEDI Enhances Rural Youth Skills in Nagaur for a Brighter Future
Rajasthan, 20 January 2025: Ambuja Cements, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, is dedicated to empowering communities through skill development initiatives. Through its Skill and Entrepreneurship Development Institute (SEDI), the Company’s CSR efforts have shaped the career of Surendra Barwal, a young graduate from Sanwaliyawas, Nagaur in Rajasthan.
After completing a 60-day course in business facilitation and IT skills at SEDI, Surendra secured a job as an Audit Officer at Fusion Microfinance Ltd., with a monthly salary of Rs. 28,301, helping him move beyond farming to support his family’s future.
Coming from a middle-class background, Surendra initially supported his education by coaching others but found it insufficient to meet his family’s needs. SEDI not only provided him with the necessary skills through its training programme, but also helped him land a stable job. His story has inspired many others from his village to join SEDI and pursue careers beyond agriculture.
With his employment, Surendra now contributes to his family’s income, raising their total monthly earnings to Rs. 80,000, significantly improving their quality of life. His success has earned him recognition in his community, where he is seen as a role model for perseverance and hard work. Surendra expressed his gratitude towards SEDI and Ambuja Cements for this transformation.
Ambuja Cements remains committed to facilitating sustainable livelihoods by empowering rural youth through skill-based training, securing a stronger future for communities across the nation.
Otters Club Squash Tournament 2025: Avaada Group Empowers a Stage for Champions
Mumbai, January 20, 2025: The Otters Club Squash Tournament 2025 concluded on a high note, leaving a lasting impact on the Indian squash community. Supported by Avaada Group, a leader in renewable energy, the event showcased a remarkable convergence of talent, passion, and sportsmanship.
The tournament, held from January 14 to 18, 2025 at Otters Club, Bandra, witnessed an impressive turnout, with 412 players competing across 15 draws. Participants traveled from cities across India, contributing to the dynamic energy levels and showcasing a vibrant mix of skills and talent. It featured participants from diverse categories, including Men, Women, Boys, and Girls, with detailed statistics as follows:
● Total Events: 15
● Total Draws: 15
● Total Players: 412
The tournament showcased remarkable performances, setting new benchmarks, and highlighting the immense potential of India’s young squash talent.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Sindoor Mittal, Vice Chairperson of Avaada Group, “We at Avaada believe in empowering communities through sustainable development and holistic growth strategies. Sports is an avenue that cultivates character, discipline, and resilience. Our goal with supporting the Otters Club Squash Tournament is to encourage youth and the younger generation of sports in India and that extends our vision of a brighter more inclusive future.”
Commenting on the tournament’s significance, Otters Club President, Ayaz Kazi stated, “The tournament has been a phenomenal success, showcasing the immense talent and passion for squash across the country. We are proud to create a platform where players, from budding talent to seasoned professionals, can compete and excel. We are deeply grateful to Avaada for their support in elevating the tournament’s stature and enabling us to deliver an unforgettable experience for players and spectators alike.”
The Otters Club Squash Tournament has long been recognized for nurturing young talent and fostering a love for sport. Avaada’s involvement reflects their commitment to supporting sports and empowering youth, aligning with their broader mission of promoting sustainable growth and development in various spheres. With top players, rising stars, and enthusiastic fans coming together, the tournament promises to be a highlight for sports enthusiasts, players, and coaches alike.
Scaler Innovation Lab and NeoSapien Team Up to Innovate India’s First AI-Driven Wearable Device
Mumbai, January 20th, 2025: Scaler, a soonicorn education provider in India, has partnered with NeoSapien, an early-stage startup developing an AI-powered wearable device to enhance human memory, decision-making, and productivity. NeoSapien, a Shark Tank India Season 4 participant, is the first company to join the recently launched Scaler Innovation Lab, a non-dilutive grant fund to support promising startups, offering not just financial assistance but also access to a high-quality workspace, resources, and a strong network of industry experts. This pioneering incubator fosters innovation in AI/ML, IoT, Robotics, and Blockchain.
NeoSapien stands out as a groundbreaking venture, being the first in India and among the pioneers globally to develop an AI-powered wearable. This device, created by cousins Dhananjay Yadav and Aryan Yadav, aims to redefine how individuals interact with technology, bridging gaps in communication while fostering deeper connections.
Through its partnership with Scaler Innovation Lab, NeoSapien will leverage state-of-the-art resources to advance its product development and scale operations. The collaboration includes:
- Grant Support: A non-dilutive grant of ₹10 lakh to support NeoSapien’s growth.
- Student Internships: Access to talented students from Scaler School of Technology, who will intern with NeoSapien to provide essential skilled talent.
- Expert Mentorship: Guidance from industry leaders at Scaler to accelerate research, development, and product implementation.
- Operational Assistance: Support in software testing and warehousing to streamline operational challenges.
“Scaler Innovation Lab is committed to empowering promising startups like NeoSapien to bring transformative ideas to life,” said Abhimanyu Saxena, Co-founder of Scaler and InterviewBit. “We are thrilled to embark on this journey with NeoSapien as our first partner and to contribute to the vibrant startup ecosystem by combining the expertise of our mentors and the talent of our students.”
NeoSapien Co-Founder Dhananjay Yadav commented, Joining Scaler Innovation Lab is a game-changer for us. The funding, mentorship, and access to top-tier talent will significantly boost our growth trajectory, enabling us to focus on what we do best—innovating and solving real-world challenges through technology.
During their Shark Tank India pitch, the founders showcased the immense potential of Neosapien and
their vision for the future of personal assistance, seeking ₹80 lakhs for 2.5% equity.
The Scaler Innovation Lab is designed to be a hub for groundbreaking ideas, providing startups with a collaborative environment and a robust support system to thrive. By partnering with NeoSapien, Scaler aims to foster innovation and prepare its Scaler School of Technology students for impactful careers in technology.