Times Music CEO Mandar Thakur Recognized as ‘International Music Person of the Year’ at MUSEXPO 2025
MUSEXPO 2025 marked its milestone 25th global edition by recognizing Times Music and awarded its CEO, as the ‘International Music Person of the Year’ on behalf of the company. This historic honour is the first ever to be awarded to any company and executive from the India/ Asia region and is bestowed upon individuals and companies contributing significantly to the global music industry.
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The award ceremony, held in Burbank, California (widely known as the media capital of the world) featured official proclamations from the Mayor of Burbank, the County of Los Angeles, and representatives from the State of California, underscoring the significance of this recognition.
Times Music, a joint venture between The Times Group and Primary Wave, has transformed into a dominant force in recorded music, publishing, and artist management. The company’s diverse portfolio includes Junglee Music, which focuses on Bollywood soundtracks, and ffs, an indie music sub-label that champions India’s rich musical landscape.
Vineet Jain, Managing Director, The Times Group stated, “This award is a recognition of Times Music’s and its team’s dedication and effort toward building a global business and I wish Mandar and team continued success.”
Reflecting on this achievement, Mandar Thakur, CEO, Times Music shared: “This recognition highlights India’s expanding influence in the global music industry and cements Times Music’s role as a key player on the world stage”.
Previous “International Music Person of the Year” awards honourees have included Grammy & Emmy Award Winning & Oscar nominated global hit songwriter Diane Warren; Monte Lipman & Avery Lipman, Co-Founders, Republic Records; Harvey Goldsmith (renowned concert promoter – Live Aid, Live Earth, Prince’s Trust); Steve Schnur, Worldwide Executive & President Music, EA Games; George Ergatoudis, Head of Music, UK & Ireland Apple; Pete Ganbarg, President A&R Atlantic Records; Daniel Glass, President & Founder, Glassnote Entertainment Group amongst others.
Ring in Tamil New Year at Southern Spice, Taj Coromandel
Tamil New Year, also known as Puthandu, marks the beginning of the Tamil calendar and is a time for new beginnings and joyous celebrations. Rooted in tradition, the festival is observed with special prayers, vibrant decorations and an elaborate feast that reflects the essence of Tamil heritage. Southern Spice, the iconic South Indian specialty restaurant at Taj Coromandel, invites guests to a grand celebration with a specially curated meal experience, offering an exquisite selection of authentic flavours. Guests can indulge in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian offerings, each crafted with time-honoured recipes that bring out the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Tamil Nadu.
The quintessential South Indian experience at Southern Spice begins with Manga Pachadi, a signature dish of Tamil New Year that beautifully balances sweet, sour and spicy flavours, made with raw mango, jaggery, red chilies, asafoetida, mustard seeds and ghee. The vegetarian offering is a feast of authentic flavours, featuring Tulasi Rasam, a flavourful broth of tomatoes, fresh basil leaves and spices; Murungai Keerai Adai, made with moong dal, drumstick leaves, spices and herbs; Mochai Vendakkai Mandi, a tangy butter bean and okra curry cooked in tamarind sauce; Kutti Urulai Vathakkal, potatoes tempered with aromatic spices; and Kaikari Vellai Kurma, a rich coconut and cashew based vegetable curry. The offerings also include Arai Keerai Kadayal, a blend of amaranth leaves, moong dal, mustard and curry leaves; the hearty Kathirikai Kara Kuzhambu, a brinjal and tamarind-based curry; and Beans Paruppu Usili, a delicious combination of beans and steamed lentils. Guests can also indulge in Kaikari Brinji, a fragrant spiced vegetable pilaf; Nool Parotta, a flaky South Indian bread; and the special Arachuvitta Sambar, a lentil preparation made with freshly ground spices.
For those who prefer non-vegetarian specialities, savour delights like Nattu Kozhi Milagu Chaaru, a hearty country chicken soup infused with black pepper; Eral Porichathu, crispy fried bay prawn tail; Kozhi Uppu Kari, slow-roasted chicken in a medley of spices; and Vaigai Kari Sukka, a Madurai-style dish of succulent lamb shoulder, cooked gently with spices. Guests can also indulge in Meen Manga Kozhambu, a rich and tangy kingfish curry infused with green mango and coconut; Karaikudi Chicken Curry, a preparation of chicken morsels tossed with shallots, spices and black pepper; and the comforting Attukal Paya, lamb trotters cooked gently with spices. No Tamil New Year celebration is complete without biryani, and the Kongunadu Kozhi Biryani, a flavourful chicken pilaf from the Kongu region, adds the perfect finishing touch.
A grand festive meal deserves a sweet finale like the Javvarisi Semiya Payasam, a sago and vermicelli delicacy; Kavuni Rice Halwa, a rich and indulgent black rice and jaggery confection; and the signature Seethapazham Ice Cream, a creamy custard apple-flavoured homemade ice cream.
For a truly memorable celebration this Tamil New Year, savour the culinary artistry at Southern Spice at Taj Coromandel, featured among India’s Top 50 Restaurants by Condé Nast Traveller India, and awarded 4 Stars by Culinary Culture’s Ultimate Restaurant Ratings
Axis Bank Boosts Digital Security with Innovative In-App Mobile OTP
Nagpur, April 9 2025: Axis Bank, one of the largest private sector banks in India, has introduced an industry-first ‘In-App Mobile OTP’ feature on its mobile app, ‘open’, to enhance authentication security and protect customers from rising OTP-related frauds and scams. This innovative feature eliminates dependence on telecom networks by generating time-based one-time passwords (TOTP) directly within the app, instead of sending OTPs via SMS. This ensures faster, more secure authentication while significantly reducing fraud risks. The Mobile OTP is a significant step in the bank’s overall fraud protection roadmap, as part of which it aims to introduce a series of initiatives to become India’s safest bank.
With cyber threats on the rise in the industry, particularly SIM swap and phishing attacks targeting SMS-based OTPs, Axis Bank’s In-App Mobile OTP provides a device-bound, time-sensitive alternative, reducing the risk of fraud. Users can use the Mobile OTP feature to log in into internet banking and can opt to use it for authenticating transactions as well. It is also accessible globally, functioning over internet, ensuring uninterrupted authentication even while travelling, especially for seafarers, frequent international travellers and NRIs. Additionally, customers receive real-time login and transaction attempts, enhancing transparency and control over account activity.
Sameer Shetty, President & Head – Digital Business & Transformation, Axis Bank, said,“At Axis Bank, we are focused on introducing measures to reduce fraud incidences and enhance customer safety. The introduction of In-App Mobile OTP on our mobile app, ‘open’, is a significant step in ensuring safe and secure digital banking experience for our customers. We are investing heavily in building multiple layers of protection against cyber frauds. In addition to enhanced security against frauds, the Mobile OTP option also eliminates reliance on telecom networks, thus providing customers with a seamless, more reliable authentication experience.”
With this launch, Axis Bank further strengthens its position as a leader in digital banking, taking proactive initiatives to enhance security, ensuring a safer and more resilient banking experience for its customers.
Telecom Sector Skill Council Signs MoU for Training Programs
New Delhi, April 8, 2025: The Telecom Sector Skill Council (TSSC) has joined hands with KARAM Safety, a leader in safety solutions and training, to introduce specialized courses aimed at enhancing safety standards and skill development in height and rescue operations. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formalizing this collaboration was signed on May 9, 2024. This partnership seeks to address critical skill gaps in the telecom sector, equipping professionals with the necessary expertise to work safely in high-risk environments. The training programs extend beyond the telecom industry and cater to various sectors requiring specialized skills in height safety and rescue operations.
Speaking about the collaboration, Mr. Hemant Sapra, President, Global Sales and Marketing, KARAM Safety, stated, “Our partnership with the Telecom Sector Skill Council marks a significant step towards strengthening safety practices in the telecom industry. KARAM Safety has been at the forefront of providing world-class fall protection systems, personal protective equipment (PPE), and fixed-line products, ensuring that professionals working at heights have access to the best safety solutions. By integrating our expertise with TSSC’s industry knowledge, we aim to build a strong foundation for safety training that enhances workforce preparedness and reduces risks.”
Under this initiative, the Height & Rescue Training (HART) course will provide participants with enhanced safety knowledge, practical fall risk management skills, expertise in handling and maintaining personal protective equipment, and emergency preparedness. This two-day course consists of 15 hours of training, followed by a three-hour practical and written assessment. Participants who complete the course will earn an NCVET-approved certificate with 0.5 educational credit points through Skill India.
The Rope Operations, Tactics, and Rescue (ROTAR) course is designed to develop expertise in rope techniques, hazard identification, and confined space rescues. It focuses on team coordination and communication, safe working practices at heights and confined spaces, and mastery of rope maneuvers such as rigging and ascents/descents. The course spans eight days, including seven days of training and one day for practical and written assessments. Successful participants will receive an NCVET-approved certificate with 2.0 educational credit points issued through Skill India.
JLR Surpasses Net Cash Positive Target Thanks to Solid FY25 Sales
Bengaluru, 08 April 2025 – JLR today announces strong wholesale and retail sales for the fourth quarter of FY25 (three-month period to 31 March 2025) and the full year ended 31 March 2025, reflecting consistent, sustained global demand, as it achieved a net cash positive position, a key Reimagine strategy target.
Wholesale volumes for the fourth quarter of 111,413 units (excluding the Chery Jaguar Land Rover China JV), up 6.7% vs. Q3 FY25 and up 1.1% year-on-year. Compared to the prior year, wholesale volumes for the fourth quarter were higher in North America (14.4%), Europe (10.9%), flat in the UK (0.8%), lower in China (-29.4%) and Overseas (-8.1%).
Retail sales for the fourth quarter of 108,232 units (including the Chery Jaguar Land Rover China JV) were down 5.1% compared to Q4 FY24 and up 1.8% compared to Q3 FY25.
The overall mix of the most profitable Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and Defender models was 66.3% of total wholesale volumes in Q4 FY25 and 67.8% for the full year.
For the full year ended 31 March 2025, wholesale volumes of 400,898 and retail sales of 428,854 were flat at -0.1% and -0.7% respectively, compared to the prior year. In addition, JLR achieved its net debt zero target, ending the financial year net cash positive, a key Reimagine strategy target.
JLR will report its full year results for the year ended 31 March 2025 in May and, as usual, provide guidance on the outlook for FY26 at that time.
Experts and Scientists Share Groundbreaking Insights at Shodh Shikhar Vigyan Parv 2025
Bhopal, April 8, 2025: Rabindranath Tagore University (RNTU) successfully hosted the international research and innovation conference “Shodh Shikhar Vigyan Parv 2025” under the theme “Viksit Bharat-Naya Bharat.” The event saw the participation of over 1,500 delegates, 100+ speakers, and representatives from 176 institutions worldwide, showcasing more than 300 research papers and 75 innovative projects. Discussions centered around the commercialization of over 25 research products, emphasizing India’s journey toward becoming a global research and innovation hub. The event featured seven distinct tracks for submissions and presentations, covering a broad spectrum of scientific and technological domains.
Inaugural Address and Keynote Sessions
The conference commenced with an inspiring address by Mr. Atul Kothari, National Secretary of Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas, who emphasized the importance of conducting scientific research in one’s mother tongue. He argued that regional language-based research fosters better understanding and accessibility, aligning with India’s goal of democratizing knowledge.
Chancellor Santosh Choubey outlined RNTU’s commitment to education and research, highlighting its initiatives like the Prime Minister Skill Center, the Atal Incubation Center, and various startup incubation programs. He stressed the need for industry-academia collaboration to drive innovation and skill development.
Dr. Amitabh Mishra, Chief Scientist at Hicks Company, introduced groundbreaking medical technology, including an advanced thermometer designed to enhance precision in healthcare. Meanwhile, Dr. Arvind Ranade discussed India’s Vision 2047, stressing the need for interdisciplinary research and government support to bolster scientific advancements.
Dr. Namrata Pathak from the Department of Science and Technology (DST) underscored the department’s role in nurturing young researchers through grants and mentorship programs. She encouraged scholars to explore emerging areas like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and sustainable energy.
Prof. Bharat Sharan Singh, Chairman of MP Private University Regulatory Commission, urged researchers to contribute toward India’s technological self-reliance by 2047, drawing parallels with India’s historical scientific achievements. He called for increased policy support for research and development.
Research Presentations, Exhibitions, and Science Journalism
The event featured a dynamic exhibition where research scholars and industry experts presented path-breaking projects. Highlights included an electric vehicle charging station powered by solar energy, an IoT-enabled workforce management system, and sustainable agricultural innovations aimed at improving food security.
A dedicated session on science communication in Hindi brought attention to the need for accessible scientific literature. Dr. Vinita Choubey, Editor of the magazine “Electroniki Aapke Liye,” shared insights on making scientific knowledge more inclusive and widely available across India.
Experts also discussed the evolving landscape of science journalism, emphasizing its role in bridging the gap between research institutions and the general public. They encouraged young journalists to actively participate in making science engaging and understandable for a broader audience.
Valedictory Session and Closing Ceremony
The valedictory session was graced by Prof. Bharat Sharan Singh, Chairman of MP Private University Regulatory Commission, as the Chief Guest. Distinguished guests included Dr. Manoj Kumar Pateria, Former Chairman, CSIR-NIScPR, and Dr. Namrata Pathak from DST. Other guests included Dr. Siddharth Chaturvedi, Chancellor of SCOPE Global Skills University; Dr. Aditi Chaturvedi Vats, Pro-Chancellor of RNTU; Dr. RP Dubey, Vice-Chancellor of RNTU; and Dr. Arun Joshi, Vice-Chancellor of CVRU Khandwa.
The conference concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding contributions across multiple disciplines, including engineering, life sciences, and environmental sustainability. Eminent researchers and young scholars were honored for their innovative work, reinforcing the significance of research in shaping India’s future.
With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and knowledge dissemination, Shodh Shikhar Vigyan Parv 2025 set a precedent for future conferences, inspiring researchers to contribute meaningfully toward India’s scientific and technological advancement.
World Health Day 2025: Impact of Food Trends on Health
Mumbai, 8th April 2025: As we mark World Health Day, it’s the perfect time to reflect on how consumer awareness around food, health, and hygiene has evolved over the past year. The Godrej Food Trends Report 2024 had predicted a significant shift in consumer choices, with a growing focus on clean eating, ethical sourcing, and mindful consumption. Looking back, these predictions have not only come true but have also shaped the way India eats today.
With health and well-being at the centre of food decisions, consumers have become more discerning, choosing ingredients that nourish, sustain, and align with their values. The modern Indian family is now more personalized in its food habits than ever before, reflecting a strong commitment to health-conscious and sustainable choices.
Key Trends That Defined Consumer Choices Over the Past Year
1. Cutting Back on Ultra-Processed Foods (94.2%) – A Shift That Stuck
A year ago, 94.2% of experts had predicted that consumers would actively reduce their intake of ultra-processed foods, recognizing their health risks. Today, that shift is evident in the way Indian households are choosing fresher, minimally processed alternatives. From home-cooked meals to clean-label products, the focus on whole foods over convenience-driven, processed options has been a defining trend.
2. Supporting Local Farmers & Producers (90.4%) – A Conscious Choice That Grew Stronger
The emphasis on local, sustainable, and ethically sourced food was another key forecast in 2024, with 90.4% of experts predicting that Indian consumers would move towards supporting local farmers and producers. Over the past year, this movement has only strengthened, with more consumers making conscious efforts to buy fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. Farmers’ markets, farm-to-table initiatives, and hyperlocal sourcing have gained prominence, reflecting this growing commitment to sustainability and community-driven food systems.
3. The Rise of Clean & Safe Food Choices (78.8%) – A Hygiene-Driven Evolution
As projected by 78.8% of experts, food safety and hygiene have taken centre stage in consumer decisions. Shoppers have become more vigilant about ingredient sourcing, contamination risks, and the quality of packaged foods. The past year has seen a notable increase in demand for clean-label products, with brands responding by offering more transparency about their sourcing, ingredients, and safety measures.
4. The Climatarian Movement Gains Momentum (75.0%) – Eating for the Planet
With sustainability influencing food habits, 75% of experts had forecasted that consumers would adopt a climatarian approach—focusing on foods with a lower carbon footprint. This prediction has played out strongly, with more plant-based eating, reduced food waste, and an emphasis on seasonal, local produce shaping meal choices. From alternative protein sources to sustainable packaging, the food industry has evolved to cater to this eco-conscious shift.
Traditional Wisdom Meets Modern Convenience
Beyond these major shifts in food habits, the past year has also seen a resurgence of traditional dietary wisdom. As predicted, consumers have rediscovered local and ancestral food practices, blending them with modern convenience. From gut-friendly fermented foods to Ayurveda-inspired diets, the shift towards holistic well-being is now more than just a niche trend—it’s a lifestyle.
Expert Take: The Future of Food & Well-Being
“As we look back at the predictions from the Godrej Food Trends Report 2024, it is evident that these shifts in food habits were not just passing trends but conscious lifestyle choices that are here to stay. Consumers today are more mindful of what they eat, where it comes from, and how it impacts their health and the planet. From reducing ultra-processed food to supporting local sourcing and embracing sustainable diets, the food landscape is evolving towards a healthier and more responsible future,” says Rushina Munshaw Ghildiyal, Managing Director of a Perfect Bite Consulting and Editor of the annual Godrej Food Trends Report.
As World Health Day reinforces the importance of well-being through better food choices, the Godrej Food Trends Report 2024 serves as a testament to how far we have come in our journey towards healthier, more sustainable eating habits.
Goafest 2025 Welcomes Industry’s Talent Innovations
April 8th, 2025; Mumbai, India: With a promise to be bigger, bolder, and more electrifying than ever, Goafest 2025 will bring together the brightest creative minds in the advertising, marketing and media industry for an unforgettable showdown of music talent with Advertising Rocks Season 3. Open to solo and duet performers, Advertising Rocks shortlisted participants will have the opportunity to advance through multiple rounds, culminating in a live finale at Goafest 2025. Shortlists will also get an opportunity to be a part of Goafest 2025 at no cost.
While the solo winners stand a chance to win INR 50,000 and INR 25,000 in first and second place respectively, duet winners can win INR 1,00,000 and INR 50,000 for first and second place respectively.
Speaking on the third edition of Advertising Rocks, Jaideep Gandhi, Chairman of the Goafest 2025 Organising Committee and Founder of Another Idea said, “Advertising Rocks has evolved into a platform that celebrates the creative spirit of our industry beyond work! After two successful seasons, this year’s event is set to raise the bar, delivering a spectacle that blends creativity with entertainment in a way only the advertising industry can. Season 3 is surely going to be the most thrilling yet!”
Adding to this, Subhash Kamath, Former CEO of BBH and curator of ‘Advertising Rocks’ stated, “This is the 3rd year of advertising rocks and we’ve seen some terrific performances in the past. We want to make it bigger this year, so we’ve introduced ‘duets’ as a category this time. I’m looking forward to seeing more and more people showcasing their musical talents and I urge every agency to encourage their youngsters to come forward and participate!”
Participants will have to submit their audition video by April 30, 2025, in order to qualify to the semi-finals where they will perform live before a jury panel at Goafest. The finalists comprising 4 finalists from each category will perform at the finals where winners will be determined through a combination of jury scores and audience voting at the festival.
Registrations for Advertising Rocks Season 3 are now open, and participants can sign up to showcase their musical prowess and performance skills. Whether you’re an agency executive, a marketing maven, or a media professional, this is your chance to rock the stage!
Affordable PR for Startups: GPRC Makes Branding Accessible for Solopreneurs
Noida, India – 8th April 2025 – In a world where public relations has long been a luxury reserved for the well-funded and well-connected, Global PR Connect (GPRC) is changing the narrative. As it marks three years of disruptive growth, the digital-first PR agency is leading a quiet revolution—making branding accessible, affordable, and impactful for startups, solopreneurs, and emerging businesses across India.
In just three years, GPRC has achieved an extraordinary 1000% growth in turnover, crossed ₹23 crore in revenue, and built a thriving portfolio of 350+ brands. With 45,000+ media features to its name, the agency is proof that effective PR doesn’t need to break the bank—it just needs the right approach.
Leveling the PR Playing Field
Founded by Animesh Kumar and Saurav Lohani, GPRC was launched with a bold mission: to democratize public relations and make it a powerful growth tool for every brand, not just the big names. “For too long, PR has been an exclusive domain. We wanted to open the doors wide,” says Animesh Kumar, Co-founder of GPRC.
With performance-driven, transparent pricing and a guaranteed visibility model, GPRC ensures that even early-stage startups and solo founders can access top-tier media coverage without the traditional barriers of cost or connections.
“We’re not here to be just another PR agency,” adds Saurav Lohani. “We’re building a movement—one where every ambitious founder, no matter their size or sector, has a fair shot at building a memorable brand.”
Startup-Friendly, Impact-Focused PR
GPRC’s 360-degree approach to PR includes media relations, strategic storytelling, crisis management, influencer marketing, and digital-first brand campaigns. This makes the agency uniquely suited to support lean, agile teams who need maximum impact with minimal resources.
By combining affordable PR packages with AI-powered campaign strategies, GPRC helps businesses get seen, heard, and remembered—without burning through their budgets.
Innovation That Empowers
At the core of GPRC’s success lies its embrace of technology and data. The agency leverages AI-driven media tracking, data analytics, and trend forecasting to deliver PR strategies that are scalable, targeted, and measurable. For small businesses and solopreneurs, this means high-ROI storytelling backed by insights, not guesswork.
With the rapid shift towards digital news consumption, influencer trust, and hyper-personalized branding, GPRC is not only keeping pace with the times—it’s leading the charge.
A Vision to Empower Millions
Looking ahead, GPRC is setting its sights on global expansion while deepening its commitment to India’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem. By building affordable, tech-enabled PR solutions, the agency aims to support a new generation of brands, innovators, and creators across Tier-1, Tier-2, and even rural markets.
GPRC is also investing in training the next generation of PR professionals, ensuring that the future of the industry is inclusive, AI-ready, and impact-driven.
NSDC to Skill Over 1.5 Lakh Families for Home Building
Mumbai, April 8, 2025 – The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), in collaboration with the Nashik Zilla Parishad and Quality Council of India (QCI), has launched the “Sampanna Ghar Abhiyan” — a unique rural housing initiative designed to help over 1.5 lakh families build their own homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin.
This community-driven effort brings together 18 professional associations and grassroots institutions with a shared vision: to blend housing access with skill empowerment. Families won’t just receive support in building homes — they’ll also be trained to construct them with their own hands, creating a powerful link between livelihood and self-reliance.
NSDC will play a central role by standardising training modules and supporting the mobilisation of certified trainers across villages. On-ground skill delivery will be led by Shri Ramkrishna Arogya Sansthan, ensuring beneficiaries are equipped with practical construction skills that are safe, efficient and cost-effective. For NSDC, this collaboration is a reflection of its larger mission—to empower individuals with skills that not only enhance livelihoods, but transform communities.
The project is led by Mrs Ashima Mittal, CEO of Nashik Zilla Parishad.
Mr. Kunal Patil (President, CREDAI Nashik Metro) and Mr. Sachin Gulve (Vice President, Nashik Citizen Forum) are coordinating across technical and community bodies, while local architects are contributing to functional and user-friendly home design layouts suited for rural needs.
A wide network of associations—including experts in construction, solar energy, plumbing, sanitation, and building materials—has joined hands to support the campaign. This includes initiatives to provide building materials at factory prices, promote solar-powered solutions with support from the Maharashtra Solar Manufacturers Association, and design low-cost sanitation systems in partnership with the Indian Plumbing Association.
Local education institutions such as Maratha Education Trust, Maratha Vidya Prasarak Samaj and K.K. Wagh will also be involved, with students and faculty offering implementation support alongside rural housing engineers and Block Development Officers from Nashik Zilla Parishad. Together, they will help guide the families through construction while also assisting with availing benefits under government schemes.
A detailed project roadmap is being finalised this week, with implementation set to begin within the next fortnight. With its integrated, community-led and skill-based model, the Sampanna Ghar Abhiyan has the potential to become a national blueprint for rural housing interventions.
Jitendra Thakker, Convenor of Quality City Nashik, expressed gratitude to Mrs Ashima Mittal for her vision and leadership, adding that the initiative’s success lies in its ability to build dignity and confidence—brick by brick, skill by skill.