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Nanne Kalakaar Festival 2025 Inaugurated with a Grand Opening; Day One Showcases a Celebration of Art, Music and Culture

Two-Day Festival Dedicated to Fundraising for Specially-Abled Children

Jaipur | December 24, 2025: The Pink City once again came alive with colours and creativity as the grand inauguration of Nanne Kalakaar Festival 2025 took place at Hotel Clarks Amer. Organised by Abhyutthanam Welfare Foundation, the first day of this two-day festival presented Jaipur with a unique confluence of art, music, folk traditions and family entertainment.

Staying true to this year’s theme, “Hum Sabka Festival” (A Festival for All), the celebrations commenced with a vibrant Pachranga Parade, not merely a display of folk culture, but a powerful symbol of inclusivity, diversity and unity, setting the spirit of the entire festival.

The chief guest for the occasion was Mr. Neeraj K. Pawan, Secretary, Department of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of Rajasthan. Addressing the gathering, he said: “The objective of Nanne Kalakaar Festival is to connect art with society. The enthusiasm and participation on the very first day strengthen our belief that art is the most beautiful medium that unites people of all ages.”

Sharing the vision of the festival, Ms. Riddhi Chandrawat, Festival Director and Director of Abhyutthanam Welfare Society, stated” “Nanhe Kalakaar is not just a festival it is a sensitive initiative aimed at fundraising for specially-abled children. Through art and music, we are bringing society together while working towards a better future for these children.”

The opening day witnessed an electrifying jamming session by Kurjal Band, led by Mandeep and Harsh, which immersed music lovers in soulful rhythms and infectious energy.

Adding to the excitement was Jaipur’s first-ever Baby Rave, organised in collaboration with the Global Health Happiness Festival (an initiative of Kogta Foundation). Curated by Act to Action, this joyful dance session brought together children, parents and even grandparents, becoming one of the most cheerful and colourful highlights of the festival.

As evening approached, Kabir Cafe mesmerised the audience with a soulful performance featuring songs like “Mat Kar Maya Ka Ahankar,” “Kya Leke Aaya Hai,” and “Do Din Ka Hai Mela”, creating an emotional blend of Kabir’s timeless poetry and contemporary music.

Later, the Textile Walk showcased Rajasthan’s rich textile heritage reimagined through AI and modern technology, offering a visually stunning experience where tradition met innovation. The walk was partnered by Rajasthan Fashion Fest, with Killer Jeans as styling partner and Style A Craze as salon partner.

The night reached its grand crescendo with a powerful performance by the legendary Indian Ocean Band. With iconic tracks like “Tu Kisi Rail Si Guzarti Hai,” “Man Kasturi,” and “Bande,” Rahul Ram fused rock and folk to keep thousands of spectators dancing till late night, transforming the first day into a historic musical memory.

Across the festival, visitors are enjoying 20+ art workshops, creative activities, and over 80 food, art and merchandise stalls, creating an immersive experience for audiences of all ages.

The first day of Nanne Kalakaar Festival has already secured its place as a memorable chapter in Jaipur’s cultural calendar, setting high anticipation for Day Two.

On the second day, audiences can look forward to Rajasthani folk jamming by Digpal, followed by a soulful performance by Raahgir, poetry by Runmal Jain, an evening Folk Rave with Digvijay Singh Jasana, and a grand finale concert by Sona Mohapatra, promising a journey of music, emotion and boundless energy. Continuous art workshops, creative zones and the family area will ensure a truly unforgettable festival experience.

About Abhyutthanam Welfare Foundation

Founded in 2014, Abhyutthanam Welfare Foundation, Jaipur, is a registered NGO actively working in the fields of education, environment and social welfare.

Through its ‘School Bharo Andolan’, the organisation has helped more than 300,000 children every year access their right to education. During the COVID-19 pandemic, its food campaign served meals to over 80,000 people, and under the ‘Aranya Ropan Abhiyan’, the foundation has established nine urban forests using the Miyawaki technique.

Cast: Prathamesh Parab, Ankita Lande, Prithvik Pratap, Ganesh Yadav 

 Director: Mohsin Khan , Producer: David Nadar 

Duration: 2 Hours 5 Minutes , Language: Hindi

Release 

Date: 10 December 2025 , Platform: Ultra Play OTT 

Rating: ★★★☆ (3.5) 

Mamta Child Factory
is a bold yet tender social drama that brings the complex world of
surrogacy to the screen with honesty, heart, and an unexpected dose of
small-town charm. Writer–Director Mohsin Khan tackles the subject with empathy rather than preaching, allowing the film to breathe, entertain, and connect emotionally.

Set in a modest town in Maharashtra, the story follows Bhau (Prathamesh Parab) and Chochya (Prithvik Pratap)—two laid-back real-estate brokers whose carefree routines are disrupted when Dr. Amruta Deshmukh (Ankita Lande)
arrives with a courageous dream: to launch a fertility centre in a
community weighed down by stigma, fear, and traditional beliefs. Her
progressive medical outlook challenges the town’s deep-rooted
conservatism, triggering resistance, rumours, and moral panic—fueling a
drama that remains deeply human at its core.

The film finds its emotional pulse in the lives of the village women,
who carry silent battles between economic survival and social judgment.
Khan portrays surrogacy not as a clinical transaction but as a journey
of dignity, sacrifice, and hope. The narrative gains further momentum
when MLA Sanjay Tatya Bhosale (Ganesh Yadav) quietly
considers surrogacy for his own family, layering the plot with political
pressure, personal conflict, secrecy, and vulnerability.

Performances

Prathamesh Parab leads the film with effortless humour and emotional authenticity, evolving beautifully as the story shifts gears. Ankita Lande
delivers a remarkably grounded and mature performance as Dr.
Amruta—strong, sensitive, and morally aware without ever feeling
theatrical.
Prithvik Pratap keeps the laughter natural with his impeccable comic timing, while Ganesh Yadav balances power and fragility with surprising nuance.
Supporting actors Sujata Mogal and Vijay Patwardhan enrich the film’s rural ecosystem, making the town feel lived-in and alive.

Writing & Direction

Khan smartly anchors the first half in light-hearted, slice-of-life
storytelling, letting humour and local colour flow organically. The
second half turns more intense, exploring ethical and emotional
crossroads effectively. While the climax leans slightly more toward
family drama than the central theme of surrogacy, it still lands—mainly
because the emotions never lose sincerity, and the dramatic escalation
remains engaging rather than forced.

Final Verdict

Mamta Child Factory may shift toward heightened drama at the end, but
it never sacrifices emotional impact. It’s a rare film that blends social relevance, humour, politics, and family emotions into one cohesive viewing experience.

A heartfelt, meaningful and engaging family entertainer that
sparks conversation and stays with you long after the credits roll. A
confident OTT watch with a soul.

Rating: ★★★☆ (3.5/5)
Now streaming on Ultra Play OTT from 10 December 2025.

Willow Woods Preschool Honoured at National Education Brilliance Awards 2025 for Excellence in Early Childhood Education

New Delhi [India], December 24 : Willow Woods Preschool has achieved a significant national milestone by being conferred with the Best Preschool in Telangana award at the prestigious National Education Brilliance Awards & Summit 2025, held at Crowne Plaza, Mayur Vihar, New Delhi. The institution was specially recognised for its Innovative Teaching Practices and Best Curriculum Design, placing it among India’s most distinguished educational institutions in the preschool education segment.The National Education Brilliance Awards are known for honouring institutions and education leaders who demonstrate exceptional commitment, innovation, and impact in shaping the future of education. The 2025 edition of the summit, themed “Empowering Educators, Transforming Futures,” brought together some of the most eminent personalities from governance, education, healthcare, and public service from across the country.

The award ceremony was graced by an illustrious panel of dignitaries. The Chief Guests for the event included Hon’ble Shri Ravikant Ujjain Ji, Member of the Delhi Legislative Assembly, Trilokpuri, Delhi, and Hon’ble Shri Raaj Kumar Anand Ji, Former Minister of Education, Government of Delhi, both of whom delivered felicitations highlighting the importance of innovation and value-based education in India’s evolving learning ecosystem.

The event was further honoured by the presence of distinguished Guests of Honour, including Shri Dr. Sant Kumar Chaudhary Ji, Chairman, Shankara Group of Institutions; Shri Dr. (Prof.) B. Srinivas Ji, Secretary, National Medical Commission, New Delhi, and Director General of Medical Education, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare; Shri Dr. Jeetu Lal Meena Ji, Joint Director, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, and Member, Medical Assessment and Rating Board, National Medical Commission; and Shri Dr. Jauhari Lal Ji, Former Director, ONGC. Each of the dignitaries addressed the gathering with felicitations, underscoring the need for strong foundational education and visionary leadership in shaping future generations.

The award was proudly received by Jyothi Penumatsa, Director of Willow Woods Preschool, whose leadership and vision have been instrumental in establishing Willow Woods as a benchmark for early childhood education in Telangana. Under her guidance, the preschool has pioneered a child-centric and holistic education model that seamlessly integrates academic readiness with emotional, social, physical, and ethical development. The jury particularly appreciated Willow Woods’ curriculum for its balance of structured learning, play-based methodologies, creativity, values education, and experiential teaching practices.

Speaking on the occasion, Jyothi Penumatsa expressed her gratitude for the national recognition, stating that the award is a testament to the dedication of the entire Willow Woods team and the trust and support of parents. She reiterated the institution’s commitment to celebrating childhood while building strong foundations that prepare children not just for school, but for life.

This national honour reinforces Willow Woods Preschool’s growing stature as a leading early education institution from Telangana that is making a meaningful impact at the national level. The recognition serves as a strong validation of its philosophy, curriculum design, and innovative teaching practices, and further strengthens its mission to nurture confident, happy, and future-ready learners.

With this achievement, Willow Woods Preschool continues to set new standards in preschool education, proudly representing Telangana on a national platform and contributing to India’s vision of excellence in education.


IWMBuzz rang in the festive spirit with its much-awaited Year Ender Bash 2025, which was held on 19th December at the stylish Sera Cocktail Room, Andheri. The evening was a perfect celebration of television, digital entertainment, friendships, and achievements, bringing together some of the most loved faces from the Indian entertainment industry under one roof.

The venue was buzzing with excitement as celebrities arrived in their stylish best, adding glamour and warmth to the evening. The bash turned into a memorable night filled with laughter, conversations, music, and heartfelt reunions. It was a perfect way to wrap up the year on a cheerful and positive note.

Several popular television and digital stars marked their presence at the event. The guest list included Rupali Ganguly, Akanksha Puri, Kanwar Dhillon, Neha Harsora, Sharad Malhotra, Ashnoor Kaur, Rajat Verma, Mazel Vyas, Mahir Pandhi, Romit Raaj, Kashish Kapoor, Eijaz Khan, Shiv Thakre, Sara Arfeen Khan, Munisha Khatwani, Vivek Dahiya,Shubhi Joshi, Yamini Malhotra, Shreya Kalra, Shrutika Arjun,Alice Kaushik,Shivam Khajuria, Niharika Choksey, Farmaan Haider, Fahman Khan, Manish Naggdev, Nivedita Basu, Nasirr Khan, Pooja Verma, Director Mohit Kapoor, Karan Sharma, Harleen Reikhi, Gaurav Chopra, Saarvie Omana, Garvita Sadhwani,Mazher Sayed, Vishal Gandhi,Mitaali Nagg,Anjum Fakih,Sanjay Gagnani,Naman Shaw, Radhika Muthukumar, Bharat Ahalwwat, Ayushi Khurrana, Sanika Amit, Manan Joshi, Amit Varma, Rachana Mistry, Abhishek Sharrma, Priya Thakur, Muskaan Bamne, Sagar Parekh,Satya Tiwari, Samarthya Gupta,Saloni Sandhu, Sandeep Rajora, Sheersha Tiwari, Tanuj Virmani, Nikki Sharma, Hrishikesh Pandey, Zain Imam, Novelist Amit Khan, Amit Tyagi,  Donal Bisht, Varun Kasturia, Krutika Desai, Sprehaa Chatterjee,  and many more.

The IWMBuzz Year Ender Bash has always been known for celebrating talent, creativity, and hard work, and this year was no different. Celebrities were seen enjoying the lively atmosphere, posing for pictures, catching up with friends, and soaking in the festive vibe of the evening.

With great music, delicious cocktails, and a warm ambience, the bash truly reflected IWMBuzz’s spirit of bringing the entertainment fraternity together. The event not only celebrated the successes of 2025 but also strengthened bonds within the industry.

Overall, the IWMBuzz Year Ender Bash 2025 turned out to be a grand, joyful, and unforgettable evening, setting the perfect tone to welcome the new year ahead.

Siddhartha Laik, Founder and Editor In Chief, IWMBuzz Media says, “I would like to thank everyone who could spare time and attend celeb bash 2025. Also a big thanks to all sponsor partners. Every year we keep a bash where industry folks come and extend support and we will continue to have wide variety of events in 2026 too.”

SBB-GNT Presents IWMBuzz Celeb Bash 2025, Powered by GTC, Abhijat Marathi, Bodhi Tree, Associate Partners: White Apple, Sera, AKCH. An initiative by IWMBuzz Live.

Under the visionary leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, the Cabinet Secretariat, Government of India, initiated the Compliance Burden Reduction and Deregulation exercise for all states. As part of this national reform agenda, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Rajasthan provided active leadership for the state’s participation and ensured effective and timely implementation through multiple meetings chaired by the Chief Secretary of Rajasthan.

As a result, Rajasthan emerged among the leading states that achieved full compliance in all 23 priority areas identified by the Government of India. These reforms were systematically implemented, thereby creating a strong and efficient ecosystem that reinforced Ease of Doing Business. The regulatory framework was simplified and modernised, laying a robust foundation for the grounding and effective implementation of the Memoranda of Understanding signed during the Rising Rajasthan Investment Global Summit.

Rajasthan demonstrated its commitment to strengthening the Ease of Doing Business ecosystem by implementing several transformative reforms. To promote the MSME sector, the state amended Rule 90 to simplify the land conversion process in urban areas, reducing the timeline from 60 to 30 working days, after which automatic approval is granted. This has reduced project delays and accelerated the establishment of new enterprises.

In the field of pollution control, Rajasthan has made remarkable progress. For MSMEs, the timeline for Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO) was reduced from 120 days to 21 days, and for red/large category enterprises to 60 days. Additionally, the Pollution Control Board introduced system-generated auto-renewal of CTOs for units complying with environmental laws based on self-certification. Moreover, amendments to Water and Air Pollution Rules expanded the list of non-polluting White Category industries from 104 sectors to 877 sectors, exempting more non-polluting industries from regulatory requirements. This has accelerated project approvals and promoted industrial growth.

To reduce regulatory burden on micro-enterprises, the Rajasthan Shops and Commercial Establishments Act, 1958, was amended to increase the employee limit from 0 to 10. Furthermore, to strengthen Ease of Doing Business and make establishments more convenient, the state issued an ordinance increasing permissible working hours under the Act. According to the ordinance, daily working hours were raised from 9 to 10, with a minimum 30-minute break after 6 hours of work, and the quarterly overtime limit was increased to 144 hours.

Additionally, the Rajasthan government amended Rule 100 of the Rajasthan Factory Rules, 1951, allowing women workers (except pregnant women and mothers) to work in all hazardous tasks, including 15 tasks previously prohibited for women.

Fire safety compliance was streamlined by introducing third-party fire inspections through empanelled agencies and extending the validity period of Fire NOC certificates, thereby reducing procedural delays while ensuring safety standards.

Rajasthan also became a leading state in rationalising minimum road width requirements for rural industries. Road width was fixed at 9 meters in areas with layout plans and 4.5 meters in areas without layout plans. The state implemented significant reforms to optimise land use in industrial and commercial areas. The Urban Development and Housing Department and RIICO amended building standards to ensure optimal land utilisation and rationalised parking norms. The earlier restriction of 50% ground coverage on commercial plots was removed, providing greater flexibility in urban planning.

In the field of urban development, the Rajasthan government issued the Transit-Oriented Development Policy, aimed at promoting compact, pedestrian-friendly, and transport-centric urban growth. This policy encourages high-density mixed-use development around metro corridors, BRTS, and major transportation routes, helping to reduce traffic congestion, control horizontal urban sprawl, increase public transportation usage, and build cleaner, more efficient cities.

In the area of decriminalisation, the state notified the Rajasthan Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Ordinance, 2025, amending provisions of 11 state laws to decriminalise minor offences. Under this ordinance, criminal provisions were replaced with monetary penalties, penalties were rationalised, and criminal proceedings were reduced, making it easier for citizens and businesses to operate.

To further strengthen investor facilitation, the state’s single-window system, RajNivesh, was empowered with an AI chatbot that integrates information from various departments to provide seamless and effective assistance to investors.

Through these comprehensive and visionary reforms, Rajasthan has reaffirmed its position among India’s leading states in compliance reduction, deregulation, and investor facilitation, highlighting its continued commitment to swift, transparent, and efficient governance.

This achievement was made possible through the coordinated efforts and sustained cooperation of all departments of the state.

Alwar (Rajasthan) [India], December 18: Rajasthan has emerged as an important contributor to India’s expanding food manufacturing sector, and at the centre of this transformation is Qoot Food Limited. As the first food company in the state to earn the prestigious ZED Gold Certification under the MSME Sustainable ZED Scheme, Qoot represents a new benchmark in quality, compliance, and responsible food production. The company’s journey reflects how the right systems, standards, and manufacturing discipline can elevate both traditional Indian snacks and modern healthy formats for growing consumer demand in India and abroad.

A Manufacturing Philosophy Rooted in Quality and Responsibility

Qoot Food Limited has built its reputation on a clear principle: good food must balance taste, nutrition, safety, and consistency. Achieving ZED Gold Certification is a direct reflection of this philosophy. The certification assesses multiple dimensions of manufacturing excellence, including hygiene, sustainability practices, waste reduction, process control, and quality assurance. For a food company, these parameters are especially significant. They determine whether a product remains safe across batches, travels well across markets, and offers consumers the same experience every time.

At its manufacturing facility in Alwar, Qoot operates with documented processes that ensure each step of production, from raw material handling to final packaging, follows strict quality norms. The company’s compliance culture extends to globally recognised frameworks such as ISO 22000 Food Safety Management System and FDA registration. These layers of quality governance allow Qoot to confidently serve not only domestic markets but also export-focused partners looking for reliable manufacturing depth.

A Wide and Evolving Product Range Designed for Modern Consumers

Qoot’s manufacturing strength is evident in its diverse product portfolio, which blends bakery tradition with the rising preference for healthier, functional snacking. The company produces classic bakery cookies, a popular category in both mass and premium segments. Alongside these, Qoot has built specialised capabilities in healthy cookies, including gluten-free variants, sugar-free lines, and millet honey cookies crafted to align with modern nutritional habits.

Beyond cookies, Qoot has invested in the rapidly expanding category of healthy baked puffs. This includes high-protein millet puffs, low sodium chickpea puffs, multigrain puffs, and quinoa puffs, each formulated to offer healthier alternatives to conventional fried snacks. These products require precision-driven production methods where roasting profiles, moisture levels, and ingredient integrity must be managed with scientific accuracy. Qoot’s facility is equipped to maintain this level of consistency, ensuring that baked snacks remain crisp, nutritionally stable, and free from processing-related imbalances.

How ZED Gold Certification Shapes Everyday Manufacturing

The ZED Gold framework is not just an achievement but an operational guide that influences how Qoot runs its day-to-day manufacturing. It encourages disciplined sourcing, reduced wastage, improved energy efficiency, and data-backed decision-making on the factory floor. For food manufacturing, this leads to cleaner transitions between batches, better allergen handling, and more predictable shelf stability.

For products like gluten-free cookies or chickpea-based puffs, even a minor deviation in ingredient quality or moisture handling can impact texture, taste, and longevity. ZED-aligned processes reduce this risk by establishing clear parameters and continuous monitoring. As a result, Qoot can confidently serve brands that expect consistent results across large-scale orders and diverse product lines.

A Trusted Partner for Private Label and Contract Manufacturing

The rise of new snack brands in India has created high demand for manufacturing partners that can offer not just capacity but credibility. Qoot Food Limited has become a preferred choice for many retailers and D2C brands because its systems are built to support long-term scalability. Private-label clients rely on Qoot for controlled production, clean processing, and the ability to develop products across categories without compromising quality.

The company supports recipe development, packaging integration, and compliance management for its partners. This end-to-end approach allows brands to introduce new variants, enter modern trade, or expand into export markets without the operational burden of handling manufacturing themselves. Qoot’s experience with both established retailers and emerging startups has given the company a deep understanding of how product formulations must adapt to diverse consumer segments and retail channels.

Where Innovation Meets Traditional Strengths

Indian consumers increasingly expect snacks that combine familiar flavours with better nutritional profiles. This is where Qoot’s R&D capabilities play a meaningful role. Whether it is creating millet honey cookies, developing sugar-free formulations, or perfecting high-protein puffs, innovation within Qoot’s facility relies on scientific testing rather than trial-and-error methods. Shelf-life studies, sensory evaluation, and controlled production trials ensure that new products remain viable across real-world conditions.

At the same time, Qoot stays anchored to India’s culinary traditions, ensuring that products inspired by regional tastes retain their authenticity. This balance between tradition and innovation has allowed the company to build strong internal competencies that few manufacturing units in the region possess.

A Model for Sustainable and Compliant Food Manufacturing

Sustainability is an important part of the ZED Gold framework, and Qoot has embedded it into production planning, waste management, and energy use. The company monitors material utilisation closely to reduce losses during mixing, shaping, and baking. Efficient heat management in ovens and controlled airflow systems contribute to lower energy consumption per batch. Packaging selection is also managed responsibly to maintain product stability while minimising environmental impact whenever feasible.

Compliance remains a parallel priority. With ISO 22000 FSMS and FDA registration in place, Qoot ensures traceability from raw ingredients to finished goods. This builds trust among export-oriented clients that depend on consistent documentation, clean processing, and audit-ready systems.

A Growth Story That Reflects India’s Evolving Snack Market

India is now one of the world’s most dynamic markets for baked and healthy snacks. The shift toward multigrain cookies, millet-based products, and protein-rich puffs mirrors a deeper preference for foods that offer both enjoyment and nourishment. Qoot’s specialised capabilities position the company at the centre of this transformation.

Its production of gluten-free cookies, millet honey cookies, sugar-free options, and healthy baked puffs aligns directly with rising consumer expectations across urban markets, export destinations, and modern trade formats. The company’s combination of strong compliance, controlled processes, and product innovation has made it a benchmark for manufacturing excellence in Rajasthan and beyond.

Conclusion

Qoot Food Limited’s journey as Rajasthan’s first ZED Gold food manufacturing unit highlights what modern Indian food companies can achieve when quality systems guide operational decision-making. The company’s ability to produce a broad range of bakery cookies, healthy cookies, and nutrient-forward baked puffs reflects both technical capability and a clear understanding of market needs. As consumer demand continues to shift toward cleaner, healthier, and more reliable snack options, Qoot stands as an example of how disciplined manufacturing can support long-term industry growth. Its success story is not just about certifications or capacity but about building a manufacturing foundation that consistently delivers safe, thoughtful, and well-crafted products to the market.

Vadodara (Gujarat) [India], December 15: Navrachana University, Vadodara, successfully concluded its 13th Convocation Ceremony on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Navrachana International School, commemorating the achievements of its graduating students. The event was attended by students, parents, faculty members, trustees and senior academic leadership.

A total of 844 students from the Schools of Business & Law (SBL), Engineering & Technology (SET), Science (SoS), Environmental Design & Architecture (SEDA), and Liberal Studies & Education (SLSE) under 25 programmes were awarded degrees, marking a graduation success rate of 96%. The graduating cohort comprised 451 female and 393 male students, including 7 PhD awardees and 19 Gold Medallists, making the ceremony a significant academic milestone for the University. The PhD research showcased at the ceremony spanned advanced and emerging areas—from cutting-edge technology to critical issues in healthcare reflecting the University’s growing depth in high-impact research contributions.

Degrees were conferred by the University President Shri Rahul Amin and Chairperson Smt. Tejal Amin, in the presence of the Board of Governors, Board of Management and University leadership.

Chief Guest’s Address

The Chief Guest, Dr. Radhakant Padhi, currently working as HAG Professor and HAL Chair Professor in the Department of Aerospace Engineering, and as Associate Faculty at the Centre for Cyber-Physical Systems, Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, addressed the graduating batch.

In his address, Dr. Padhi urged students to move beyond “what” and “how” and focus on the deeper “why” of learning, reminding them that a university degree is only the first step in an ocean of knowledge. Drawing inspiration from ideas he has explored in his academic and motivational writings, he spoke about the importance of coordinated purpose—much like the precision and harmony required when multiple entities move together towards a shared trajectory—and the value of intentional pauses in one’s journey that allow reflection, recalibration and renewed momentum. He encouraged interdisciplinary learning, humility and urgency in life, remarked that “AI minus I is just A,” and called upon graduates to give back to society and work towards building a developed India with integrity and commitment—every day.

Leadership Remarks

Congratulating the graduating class, Shri Rahul Amin, President, Navrachana University, encouraged students to carry forward the values of discipline, excellence and responsible leadership as they embark on their professional journeys.

Smt. Tejal Amin, Chairperson, Navrachana University, extended her best wishes to the graduates and reiterated the University’s mission to nurture socially responsible and future-ready professionals.

Provost’s Presentation of the Annual Report 

Prof. Pratyush Shankar, Provost, highlighted NUV’s journey from its Vision, Mission and Purpose to the accomplishments of the year. He acknowledged every officer and stakeholder, reflecting the institution’s culture of collective responsibility and transparent academic governance.

Vote of Thanks

Prof. Sandeep Vasant, Registrar, delivered the Vote of Thanks, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the dignitaries, over 1800 guests, faculty members and the graduating students. His closing note captured the spirit of the evening—celebration, humility and a shared commitment to shaping futures with purpose and pride.

Accredited with NAAC Grade ‘A’, Navrachana University continues to strengthen its position as an institution committed to academic rigour, innovation and skill-based education. Through its focus on experiential learning, research orientation and industry integration, the University remains dedicated to shaping leaders equipped for the challenges of a rapidly evolving world.

Visit: https://nuv.ac.in/

 

In a moment steeped in nostalgia and renewed purpose, IAS Gaurav Dwivedi, CEO of Prasar Bharati, addressed the press conference of filmmaker Karan Razdan’s Rajni 2.0 on DD National and WAVES OTT, reaffirming the cultural significance and enduring relevance of India’s most iconic social crusader. The evening stood as a stirring tribute to the late Priya Tendulkar, whose fearless portrayal of Rajni reshaped Indian television and awakened a generation to injustice.

 

Produced by Karan Razdan under the Lord Shiva Entertainment banner, Rajni 2.0 follows Rama Rajni Prabhakarr, who walks in the footsteps of her mother and continues her legacy with unwavering resolve.

 

The new season boldly confronts urgent, real-world issues — fraudulent builders and RERA challenges, VVIP racism, malpractice in private hospitals, misuse of bypass surgeries, entitlements under Ayushman Bharat and PMJAY, workplace harassment under the POSH Act, chit fund scams, drug de-addiction, and the fast-growing menace of digital arrest frauds targeting senior citizens.

 

Reflecting on the same, IAS Gaurav Dwivedi, CEO, Prasar Bharati, said, “My takeaway from the promo today was three phrases — women empowerment, consumer rights, and the safety of women in the workplace. Rajani was conceptualised, executed, and broadcast before  the issues entered common language,  which shows how much the show was ahead of its time. It is unfortunate we could not find the episodes to re-telecast such great work, much as we would have loved to. But we searched and found Karan Razdan to bring the show back as Rajni 2.0, and we are elated that Rajni is back!”

 

Speaking at the event, Karan Razdan shared that the show seeks not just to highlight societal problems but to empower citizens with solutions. “Priya Tendulkar made Rajni a movement. Rajni 2.0 honours her legacy by giving today’s viewers the clarity, courage, and information they need to stand up once again,” he said.

 

The evening also resonated with heartfelt sentiments from distinguished guests. Anupam Kher spoke warmly of his deep friendship with Karan Razdan, his profound respect for Priya Tendulkar, and the need for socially relevant shows like Rajni 2.0 to find space on the DD National platform and WAVES OTT. Harman Baweja expressed pride in standing behind a show aired on DD National and WAVES, adding that his presence also honoured the cherished bond his father, filmmaker Harry Baweja, shared with both Karan Razdan and Anupam Kher.

 

Actress Aradhana Sharma spoke with disarming candour, saying that working on the series was not only a powerful learning experience but also an eye-opener that deepened her understanding of the social realities portrayed — something she feels proud to voice both as an individual and as an artiste.

 

The press conference concluded with an emotional remembrance of Basu Chatterjee and Priya Tendulkar, followed by a celebratory cake-cutting that marked the growing success of Rajni 2.0 — a series that continues to honour a formidable legacy while inspiring India to stand up, speak up, and demand a better tomorrow.

 

In an era defined by rapid digitalization,
global enterprise restructuring and the rise of AI-driven operating models, Dr.
Narendra Pratap Singh Tomar has emerged as one of the most respected
transformation thinkers of his time. Popularly known as Dr. Narendra Tomar or
NPS Tomar, he is an Indian-origin global strategist, CXO advisor and Founder
and Managing Director of Marshall Ridge Consulting Ltd in the United Kingdom.
With more than twenty years of international experience, he has shaped
transformation outcomes for global conglomerates, Fortune-tier enterprises and
next-generation Global Capability Centers across India, the UK, the Middle East
and APAC.

Early Life and Formative Values

Born and raised in India and currently based
in Mumbai, Dr. Tomar attributes his leadership foundation to the values
instilled by his parents, Bharat Singh Tomar and Alakhnandini Singh Tomar.
Their emphasis on discipline, clarity of thought, structural balance and
emotional grounding played a defining role in shaping his worldview.

From an early age, he displayed a keen
interest in understanding how systems work — whether organisational structures,
technology frameworks or behavioural patterns. This natural inclination toward
logic, governance and problem-solving led him to pursue a career that would
unite technology with strategic leadership.

A Two-Decade Global Career

Dr. Tomar began his professional journey in
2006 and has since worked across multiple continents, contributing to some of
the most respected institutions and consulting firms in the world. His
experience spans leadership and transformation roles at HSBC, IBM, PwC India,
QualityKiosk Technologies, Resmera Solutions and the UK-based Topaz Group,
where he contributed as Co-Founder.

Across these assignments, he led enterprise-scale
programs in banking, financial services, retail, technology and consumer
industries. His work involved building high-performing global teams, driving
cross-border transformation initiatives and modernising enterprise operations.
Over two decades, he has directly contributed to transformation programs valued
at more than 500 million USD, making him a rare strategist who combines
high-level foresight with hands-on execution.

Establishing Marshall Ridge Consulting (UK)

The creation of Marshall Ridge Consulting Ltd
in the UK was a culmination of Dr. Tomar’s strategic vision for the future of
advisory services. He observed that organisations no longer benefit from
traditional, layered consulting structures. Instead, they require strategic
partners who offer clarity, speed of execution and measurable impact.

Marshall Ridge Consulting was built on three
pillars: perspective, precision and performance. The firm focuses on enterprise
transformation, GCC strategy and scaling, AI-led modernisation, digital and
technology uplift, leadership advisory, M&A readiness and operating model
redesign. Despite being a bootstrapped venture, it rapidly built international
credibility, working with clients across the UK, Middle East, India and APAC.
Its agile, senior-led and non-bureaucratic approach differentiates it from
conventional consulting houses.

The firm operates from its UK office located
at 27–37 Station Road, Hayes, UB3 4DX, England, and continues to expand its
international presence.

Leadership Philosophy and Strategic Influence

Dr. Tomar is known for advising CXOs, boards,
founders and GCC leaders on high-stakes decisions that shape the future of
their organisations. His guidance often focuses on enterprise AI operating
models, digital acceleration strategies, multi-country governance structures,
cybersecurity modernisation, organisational maturity, innovation ecosystems and
future-of-work readiness.

His leadership philosophy is rooted in
structured thinking, ethical governance and the belief that the next generation
of leaders must integrate human intelligence with technological intelligence.
Dr. Tomar emphasises purpose-driven progress, emotional stability and
clarity-driven decision-making as critical attributes of leadership in the AI
era.

Awards, Recognition and Global Appointments

Dr. Tomar’s contributions to global
transformation and governance have been recognised through several honours. He
received the Indian Achievers’ Award for Excellence in the Banking and
Financial Sector in 2024, acknowledging his influence on enterprise technology
and transformation. He served as a judge at the Asia Pacific Software Testing
Awards 2024, recognising excellence in global software quality.

He is also a member of the World Human Rights
Protection Commission and holds an Honorary Doctorate from the same
institution. His professional credentials include an Independent Director
certification from IICA and a Global CXO certification from CXO Hive.

Author of Two Transformative Books

Beyond his advisory work, Dr. Tomar is an
author whose writing focuses on redefining leadership, wealth, purpose and the
future of digital organisations. His published book, The Life
Capitalist
, reimagines the meaning of wealth through emotional strength,
conscious living, societal responsibility and personal purpose. It encourages
individuals to pursue balance, legacy and meaningful success.

His second book, Digital Renaissance:
The Executive’s Handbook to Transformative Leadership
, offers a
comprehensive leadership roadmap for CXOs transitioning from traditional
management models to AI-driven organisational structures. It includes
frameworks, case studies and governance models designed for executive readiness
in the 5.0 era of leadership.

Together, these works reflect his mission to
inspire both personal and organisational transformation.

Vision for the Future

Dr. Tomar’s long-term vision is to build
Marshall Ridge Consulting into one of the world’s most trusted transformation
and strategy firms. His focus includes expanding operations across Europe, the
Middle East and the United States, launching a leadership excellence community
known as CXO Factory, advancing responsible AI adoption and helping
organisations build digital-first operating models that are both scalable and
sustainable.

He aims to develop global consulting standards
rooted in clarity, precision and impact — redefining what strategic advisory
should look like in the next decade.

Public Persona and Presence

Standing at 5 feet 10 inches and known for his
calm, analytical demeanour, Dr. Tomar carries the presence of a modern CXO who
balances strategic sharpness with grounded leadership. His communication style
is characterised by clarity, depth and an ability to simplify complex themes
for executive decision-makers.

Online Presence

More about Dr. Tomar’s work, thought
leadership and advisory can be found through his official website and
professional profiles:

Official Website: narendratomar.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/narendra-tomar
Company Website: marshallridgeconsulting.com

 

“Magical Wallet” Poster out :   Jimmy Shergill, Sanjay Mishra &
Anchal GS Singh Come Together for a Mystical Varanasi Story, 

“In the film Magical Wallet, audiences will get to see a 2,000-year-old Varanasi.” Director 

The poster of the Hindi film Magical Wallet, starring  Jimmy
Shergill, Sanjay Mishra & Aanchal GS Singh and Ishtiyak Khan, was
unveiled at Film Bazaar in Goa in the presence of director Nitin N
Kushwaha, Excutive  producer Hifazat Ali and co-producer Gaurav Daagar.
Industry delegates and film enthusiasts gathered to witness the first
look of this intriguing Varanasi-based story, and the response at the
venue was warm and enthusiastic. 

Varanasi has become a favourite
backdrop for Hindi cinema in recent years, and Sanjay Mishra’s earlier
films shot in the city have received strong appreciation from audiences.
Continuing this connection, Magical Wallet brings yet another
compelling narrative set against the spiritual and atmospheric charm of
Varanasi. The announcement poster, revealed at Film Bazaar, features
Sanjay Mishra standing on the steps of the Varanasi ghats, holding a
wallet overflowing with currency notes. Behind him, Jimmy Shergill and
Aanchal GS Singh are seen rushing toward him, while Ishtiyak Khan
appears with a confused and questioning expression. The Ganga, the
ancient temples, and the sunset tones in the background add a mystical
depth to the poster, making it a standout moment at the even.

Director
Nitin N Kushwaha, earlier worked extensively in various VFX and
filmmaking before stepping into direction, shared his excitement,
saying, “For me, Magical Wallet is more than a film—it is an experience
shaped by Varanasi itself. In the film  audiences will get to see 2,000-year-old Varanasi. The
city becomes a character, its energy flows through the story, and its
spirit adds depth to every moment. Launching our poster at Film Bazaar
is a very special milestone for us.”

Produced by Naresh &
Brothers and co-produced by Gaurav Daagar, Kalakaars entertainment,
movie Magical Wallet blends emotion, mystery and the cultural soul of
Varanasi in a way that promises to offer audiences a refreshing
cinematic journey. The unveiling at Film Bazaar marks the film’s first
official step into the public eye and has already sparked curiosity
among industry members present at the event.