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RV College of Engineering (RVCE), one of India’s leading engineering institutions, and Axtroid, a technology company specializing in advanced manufacturing and immersive technologies, have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a long-term collaboration focused on Extended Reality (XR), additive manufacturing, industry-oriented education, research, innovation, internships, and skill development.   RVCE and Axtroid Partner to Bring Advanced Manufacturing and Extended Reality Skills to Future Engineers The partnership aims to strengthen industry-academia engagement by creating opportunities for students and faculty to work closely with emerging technologies and real-world industrial applications. The collaboration will encompass curriculum development, industry-oriented elective courses, workshops, certification programs, faculty development initiatives, guest lectures, internships, live projects, student innovation activities, and other initiatives designed to enhance employability and innovation. Under the MOU, the two organizations will explore co-branded certification programs, establish the “RVCE–Axtroid Student Innovation Ambassadors” initiative, organize conferences, hackathons, workshops, and innovation challenges, and jointly promote research, innovation, and industry-oriented learning in emerging technologies such as Extended Reality (XR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Digital Twins, immersive technologies, and advanced manufacturing. Dr. M.P. Shyam, President, Rashtreeya Sikshana Samithi Trust (RSST), said, “Engineering education must continuously evolve to keep pace with emerging technologies and industry expectations. Our collaboration with Axtroid reflects RVCE’s commitment to providing students with meaningful exposure to transformative technologies such as Extended Reality and additive manufacturing. We believe this partnership will create valuable opportunities for innovation, skill development, and industry engagement, while further strengthening RVCE’s position as a leader in technology-driven education.” Deelip Menezes, Founder and CEO of Axtroid, said, “The future of engineering education lies in creating strong bridges between academia and industry. Through this partnership with RVCE, we aim to bring practical industry knowledge, immersive technologies, and advanced manufacturing tools into the learning ecosystem. Together, we will help students gain hands-on experience, industry-relevant skills, and exposure to emerging technologies that will define the next generation of engineering and innovation.” Abhinav Garje, Founder of Axtroid, added, “We are excited to work closely with RVCE in building a vibrant ecosystem for innovation, experimentation, and applied learning. This collaboration goes beyond technology adoption; it is about empowering students and faculty to become creators, problem-solvers, and innovators. We look forward to jointly developing programs and initiatives that create meaningful impact for learners and industry alike.” Dr. K.N. Subramanya, Principal, RV College of Engineering, emphasized the importance of strengthening industry-academia partnerships that provide students with hands-on exposure to emerging technologies and innovation-driven learning opportunities. The MoU reflects a shared vision of fostering innovation, strengthening industry readiness, and preparing students for careers in rapidly evolving technology domains. Both organizations believe that closer collaboration between academia and industry is essential to building a future-ready workforce capable of driving technological advancement and economic growth. About RV College of Engineering RV College of Engineering (RVCE), Bengaluru, is one of India’s premier engineering institutions and operates under the Rashtreeya Sikshana Samithi Trust. Known for academic excellence, innovation, research, and strong industry engagement, RVCE has consistently been recognized among the country’s leading engineering colleges. About Axtroid Axtroid is an Indian technology company focused on advanced manufacturing and immersive technologies for education and industry. The company provides solutions in 3D printing, 3D scanning, extended reality, and related technologies, while actively supporting skill development, industry-academia collaboration, and innovation-driven learning initiatives.

MaitriBodh Parivaar celebrated a one-of-a-kind International Day of Yoga at ShantiKshetra Premgiri Ashram, Karjat, bringing together the essence of Maitri (friendship and human connection), Sanskriti (culture), and the holistic health benefits of Yoga. Hundreds of participants gathered to commemorate the occasion and experience Yoga in its truest sense.   MaitriBodh Parivaar Celebrates a Unique International Day of Yoga Blending Maitri, Sanskriti, and Holistic Well-being   MaitriBodh Parivaar, a socio-spiritual organization dedicated to uplifting humanity and nourishing the inner being, recognizes Yoga as a profound pathway to inner transformation and collective well-being. Its spiritual ethos resonate deeply with the vision of the Ministry of AYUSH, which continues to promote Yoga as a way of life.   Yoga is not merely a physical practice but an invaluable part of India’s civilizational and cultural heritage. The event was graced by the presence of Shri. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Government of India, affirming the same. Addressing the gathering, he shared that while modern innovations and technological advancements will take India to new heights, it is our spiritual and cultural foundations that will provide the strength, stability, and wisdom needed to remain unparalleled in the journey ahead.   Maitreya Dadashreeji, founder and visionary of MaitriBodh Parivaar, Transformation Pioneer; spoke about the path of Maitri and Sanskriti, emphasizing how these timeless values can unite society and contribute towards Bharat’s rise as a Vishwaguru. He highlighted the importance of inner transformation as the foundation for meaningful societal transformation.   The event was also attended by Shri Gopal Krishna Agarwal, who has been working closely with MaitriBodh Parivaar on initiatives linking culture, economy, and policy for national development, and Shri Mahendra Sadashiv Thorve, MLA, Karjat-Khalapur Constituency, who continues to work towards the transformation of rural Karjat in alignment with initiatives of the organization   The celebration enabled participants to experience Yoga beyond physical postures and exercises, embracing its deeper dimension as the union of body, mind, and consciousness.   Adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the occasion, the event featured traditional performances including Ganesh Vandana and Mallakhamb, the ancient Indian yogic art form renowned for promoting strength, flexibility, balance, and discipline.   Bringing together spirituality, Sanskriti, community, and wellness on a single platform, the International Day of Yoga celebration at ShantiKshetra Premgiri Ashram stood as a remarkable testament to India’s timeless wisdom and its relevance in the modern world.

Galgotias University marked 5,500 placements across more than 1,250 recruiters, reinforcing its position as a leading talent pipeline for India’s industry. The achievement was recognised at the Student Felicitation Ceremony 2026, where the University honoured placed students and celebrated the leadership of student coordinators who ensured smooth execution of recruitment initiatives throughout the placement season.   5,500+ Placements Signal Strong Industry Confidence in Galgotias University’s Career-Ready Graduates The scale of placement outcomes reflects the confidence that industry leaders place in Galgotias University students and the University’s sustained focus on academic excellence, and industry readiness. Leading organisations recruited Galgotias students in significant numbers during the placement season. Infosys recruited 526 students, Capgemini 228, Cognizant 205, City Union Bank Ltd. 188, LTM 119, Accenture 91, and EY 61, demonstrating the depth and consistency of placement opportunities available across disciplines. The placement season also recorded several standout achievements. The highest package offered reached INR 60 LPA, while the highest internship opportunity carried a monthly stipend of INR 1.25 lakh. Many students secured offers in the INR 15 LPA to INR 26.6 LPA range from leading national and global organisations. The University also documented over 80 Dream Offers across the Big 4 firms, with students placed at Deloitte, EY, KPMG, and PwC. The ceremony recognised the student coordinators whose leadership and commitment shaped the placement ecosystem. Working closely with recruiters, the Corporate Resource Centre, and their peers, they established a transparent, efficient, and student-centric process that enabled the scale of outcomes achieved. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO of Galgotias University, said “5,500 placements in a single year signal something clear that our curriculum works because it is built with industry at the table. The trust that leading employers continue to place in our students reflects the strength of our industry partnerships, practical learning approach, and commitment to preparing graduates who are ready to contribute from day one. The trust that recruiters continue to place in our students is the strongest validation of this approach.” Galgotias University’s placement success is a manifestation of a deeply industry integrated learning ecosystem. The University operates nearly 20 industry-aligned Centres of Excellence and learning centres developed with leading firms including Apple, Infosys, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, Salesforce and IBM. These centres provide students with hands-on experience, access to emerging technologies, industry-certified learning pathways, and direct engagement with practitioners, bridging the gap between classroom learning and professional success. The strong placement outcomes are complemented by growing national and global recognition. Galgotias University has been featured in the QS World University Rankings for three consecutive years and is currently ranked 16th among all private universities in India, 46th overall and and 3rd among private universities in Uttar Pradesh. These rankings reflect the University’s academic reputation, research ecosystem, industry engagement, and commitment to student success. Recruitment for the 2026-27 cohort is already underway, with early placements from Deloitte, EY, and KPMG. The University continues to expand partnerships with emerging tech firms to support students entering AI, fintech, and sustainability sectors. About Galgotias University Galgotias University is one of India’s leading multidisciplinary universities recognised for academic excellence, research, innovation, global collaborations, and industry aligned education. With a vibrant student community of over 50,000 learners and a global alumni network of more than 100,000 graduates, the University has built a rapidly growing ecosystem focused on technology, entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world impact. In the QS World University Rankings 2027 by Quacquarelli Symonds, Galgotias University was placed in the 1201-1400 global band and ranked 16th among private universities and 46rd among all universities in India. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the University was placed in the 1201-1500 global band and ranked 27th among private universities and 65th among all universities in India. The University is also accredited with NAAC A+, one of India’s highest institutional quality ratings. Galgotias University offers programmes across engineering, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, business, law, media, design, health sciences, hospitality, liberal education, and emerging interdisciplinary domains. In 2026, students secured more than 5,500 job offers from over 1,250 recruiters. The University has built strong industry and innovation partnerships with organisations including Apple, Infosys, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, and Salesforce, while continuing to strengthen its global academic engagement and startup ecosystem.

Aligned with its Corporate Social Responsibility goal of driving initiatives that create a lasting change in the community, over the years BD India/South Asia has been contributing to key initiatives in the education, health and environment domain. In the education domain, since 2018, BD India/South Asia, in partnership with the HOPE Foundation has been helping upskill young adults in Tally operating computer skills and Nursing Assistant training in East Delhi.   CSR Partnership for Upskilling Youth between BD India and Hope Foundation   Under this initiative, BD India team in collaboration with the HOPE Foundation, celebrated the successful completion of the 8th year program by felicitating 264 youth on their graduation in the 2 skill-based courses – Nursing Assistant and Tally. Students were awarded certificates and trophies in acknowledgment of their hard work and dedication.   Atul Grover, Managing Director, BD India and KS. Wungchipem (Apem), Director, Hope Foundation   BD and HOPE Foundation have committed to continue with this partnership for the 9th year with the intent to train 320 youth across Nursing Assistant, Tally, and a new Advanced Excel + SQL course, thereby expanding pathways to employability.    Commenting on the initiative, Atul Grover, Managing Director, BD India/South Asia said, “We are extremely proud of our partnership with the HOPE Foundation where we are working with a like-minded partner to upskill the youth and enable them to earn sustainable livelihoods.  At the graduation ceremony, it was inspiring to witness the journeys of the students and hear first-hand the positive impact this program has had on enhancing their employability and confidence. As a global corporate social citizen, we are immensely proud of creating a better tomorrow for the youth of today, aligned with our objective of advancing together.”   KS. Wungchipem (Apem), Director Skill Development North & East India, HOPE Foundation said, “The partnership with BD has been instrumental in empowering youth by providing skill-based training in Nursing Assistant and Tally. This collaboration not only enhanced employability but also opened avenues for sustainable livelihoods. Through BD’s support, young individuals gained practical skills, industry exposure, and confidence to secure meaningful jobs. The initiative stands as a strong example of how partnerships can drive youth empowerment and long-term impact. Over the last 8 years of the partnership, more than 2200 youth have been trained and more than 1750 have secured jobs”   The two courses offered by Project HOPE – Nursing Assistant (NA) and Tally training are run in parallel for three months each. The criteria to offer the free courses to students is one, a 10th class pass certificate and two, a demonstrable economic need. All the students are also trained in basic English-speaking skills, life skills and there is a provision for hands-on practical sessions for both courses. The NA students undergo additional on-the-job Training for six months in reputed public or private hospitals.   Initiated in 2018, this project has trained over 2200 students from low socioeconomic backgrounds and enabled employment for over 80% of beneficiaries, largely women.   About BD-India BD is one of the largest global medical technology companies in the world and is advancing the world of health by improving medical discovery, diagnostics, and the delivery of care. BD helps customers enhance outcomes, lower costs, increase efficiencies, improve safety, and expand access to health care. 

Delivered keynote address at the Hyderabad Economic Forum on – Hyderabad: Becoming India’s Innovation Capital. Pitched Hyderabad as India’s Innovation Capital. Over 500 Business Leaders, Policymakers, Investors and Innovators Gather at SAS iTower to Shape Hyderabad’s Economic Future.   The inaugural Hyderabad Economic Forum (HEF) 2026, held under the theme “One City. One Vision. Infinite Possibilities”, hosted by SAS Infra in association with knowledge partner Bower School of Entrepreneurship, brought together over 500 business leaders, policymakers, investors, entrepreneurs, academics and industry experts today at SAS iTower, Khajaguda, to shape Hyderabad’s next growth story and strengthen its position among the world’s leading economic and innovation hubs.   Sri Sridhar Babu, IT Minister, Telangana; (L-R) Dr. Preethi Reddy & Dr. G.V. Rao, Chairman, SAS INFRA; inaugurating Hyderabad Economic Forum 2026; today at SAS iTower, Hyderabad   As one of India’s fastest-growing economic centres, Hyderabad has emerged as a global destination for technology, enterprise, innovation, investment and world-class infrastructure. The Forum served as a platform for collaboration, strategic dialogue and actionable ideas aimed at driving sustainable and inclusive growth.   The event commenced with a keynote address by Chief Guest Sri Sridhar Babu, Hon’ble Minister for IT, Industries and Legislative Affairs, Government of Telangana, on “Hyderabad: Becoming India’s Innovation Capital.” In his address he said, “The 20th century was defined by competition for resources, industries and capital; the 21st century belongs to nations that can attract ideas, talent and innovation. India’s remarkable rise from 81st to 39th in the Global Innovation Index over the past decade reflects this global shift and underscores the country’s growing innovation strength. Telangana is determined to lead this transformation from the front.”   “Today, India is the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, and Telangana has emerged as one of its most dynamic innovation hubs, earning recognition as a ‘Top Performer’ in the Centre’s States’ Startup Rankings. Through pioneering initiatives such as AIKAM, the Telangana Data Exchange (TGDeX), a Rs. 1,000-crore Fund of Funds for Startups, the proposed AI University, Skill University, and 100 Advanced ITIs, we are creating an ecosystem where innovation is not only encouraged but enabled,“ Sri Sridhar Babu added.   He further emphasised that, “Our commitment extends beyond startups and enterprises. Through AI-enabled classrooms and the AI Literacy Mission, we are equipping nearly 20 lakh government school students with the skills required for the future economy. We are building a state where innovation is embedded in education, governance and entrepreneurship.“   He concluded by saying, my message to innovators, entrepreneurs and creators is simple, Come to Telangana with an idea. We may not guarantee that every idea will succeed, but we can assure you that every sincere idea will find support, opportunity and the confidence to grow.   The day-long sessions covered economic growth and market outlook, future-ready infrastructure, digital and AI transformation, Global Capability Centers (GCCs), innovation and entrepreneurship, and investment and capital, alongside discussions on life sciences, retail, real estate, wealth management, education, hospitality, entertainment, women’s leadership and sports infrastructure, reflecting the city’s diverse growth trajectory. Participants explored how emerging technologies, strategic investments and collaborative ecosystems can accelerate Hyderabad’s development.   Reflecting on the success of the event, Dr. G.V. Rao, Chairman of SAS Infra, said that “Hyderabad’s strength lies in its ability to excel simultaneously across multiple sectors, including technology, life sciences, retail, real estate, sports and entertainment. He emphasized that the Forum was created to bring together stakeholders shaping the city’s future and to continue fostering meaningful dialogue in the years ahead.”   HEF 2026 featured more than 20 distinguished speakers through keynote sessions, fireside chats and panel discussions. A notable discussion examined whether Hyderabad could become India’s first truly global real estate market, underscoring the city’s broader ambitions.   Among the prominent speakers were Dr. Ch. Preeti Reddy, Vice-Chairman of Malla Reddy Vishwavidyapeeth; Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Satish Dua, General Officer, Indian Army; Mr. Sarvesh Singh, CEO of Life Sciences & Pharma for the Government of Telangana; Mr. Rahul Attuluri, Cofounder and CEO of NxtWave; Dr. Anil Lamba, Director of Lamcon Finance & Management Services; Mr. Karthik Yanamandra, Founding Partner, 360D Sports; Mr. Rehan Guha, Founder, Oxymorons & Half-a-Bawa Hospitality Consultants; and Ms. Mrunalini Rao, Founder & Creative Director, among several other distinguished leaders. Ms. Faye D’Souza, Founder of Beatroot News, moderated a few of the sessions.   The event concluded with a strong consensus that Hyderabad is uniquely positioned to lead India’s next phase of growth, innovation and global relevance. HEF 2026 marks the beginning of an ongoing platform that will continue to convene leaders, policymakers and innovators to shape Hyderabad’s long-term economic vision and global competitiveness.   About SAS Infra SAS Infra is a Hyderabad-based premium real estate developer with an active portfolio spanning ultra-luxury residential, large-scale commercial and luxury retail developments, including SAS Crown (Kokapet) and SAS iTower (Khajaguda).   About Bower School of Entrepreneurship Bower School of Entrepreneurship served as Knowledge Partner for the Hyderabad Economic Forum ’26.

Repos Energy today made a defining mark at VivaTech Paris 2026, showcasing a live working prototype of its Autonomous Fuelling Solution at the India Pavilion. The showcase took place on a historic day as Union Minister Shri Piyush Goyal participated in the summit alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, championing India’s deep-tech ambitions on the world stage. The Pune-based energy-tech startup demonstrated a glimpse of what fuel stations could look like in the near future, powered entirely by Artificial Intelligence, IoT, robotics, and digital payments, with minimal human intervention.   (L-R) Chetan Walunj, Founder, Repos Energy; Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry; and Aditi Bhosale Walunj, Founder, Repos Energy, at VivaTech 2026, Paris   The moment carries significant weight. India is making its debut as AI Country Partner at VivaTech 2026, Europe’s largest technology and innovation summit, and is hosting its largest-ever national pavilion at the event. Repos Energy is among the 25 high-potential Indian startups curated by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, to represent the country under the ‘Bharat Innovates’ theme, a platform that positions India as a global hub for deep-tech innovation.   A key agenda at the pavilion centred on how the Government of India, led by Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, intends to actively facilitate and accelerate the introduction of Autonomous Fuelling infrastructure across the country. The ministry’s commitment to enabling this next frontier of energy transition signals a decisive policy push that goes beyond participation at a global platform. For Repos Energy, this is a defining moment of alignment, one that validates the company’s long-standing conviction that autonomous, technology-driven fuelling is not a distant aspiration but an imminent reality for India.   The Autonomous Fuelling prototype on display integrates AI-based demand forecasting, IoT-enabled remote monitoring, robotic dispensing mechanisms, and frictionless digital payment infrastructure, designed to support both conventional fuels and emerging energy sources. The system envisions a future where fuelling stations operate with significantly reduced human intervention, contributing to operational efficiency, safety, and the broader decarbonisation agenda.   Speaking on India’s commitment to introducing Autonomous Fuelling infrastructure, Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, said, “India’s vision for energy transition is not just about adoption, it is about building the infrastructure that defines the future. Autonomous Fuelling is a critical piece of that puzzle, and the Government of India, through the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is committed to creating the right policy environment to introduce and scale this technology across the country. Startups like Repos Energy, who are building at the intersection of AI, IoT, and energy, are exactly the kind of innovators that will help India lead the global energy transition. VivaTech 2026 is a fitting platform to announce this intent to the world.”   Aditi Bhosale Walunj and Chetan Walunj, Founders, Repos Energy, showcase their Autonomous Fuelling Solution to Piyush Goyal at VivaTech 2026, Paris   Speaking at VivaTech Paris, Aditi Bhosale Walunj, Founder, Repos Energy, said, “Showcasing our Autonomous Fuelling vision here, on a day when India stands tall on the world stage, is a defining moment, not just for Repos Energy, but for every Indian entrepreneur who dares to build for the world. When we started in 2017, we never imagined it would bring us here. This is proof that when you build with conviction, the world takes notice.”   Chetan Walunj, Founder, Repos Energy, added, “The future of energy is autonomous, intelligent, and made in India. By combining AI, IoT, and robotics, we are not just reimagining fuel delivery, we are building the infrastructure that will power the world’s energy transition. This is Repos Energy’s commitment to Viksit Bharat, and beyond.”   For Repos Energy, the VivaTech platform represents more than an exhibition opportunity, it is a strategic inflection point. Founded in 2017 with the deceptively simple question ‘What if fuel came to you?’, the company has since built a network of 2,500+ fuelling partners and served 25,000+ businesses across India, while working directly with the Government of India to establish the doorstep fuel delivery policy framework. Backed by the late Shri Ratan Tata across two funding rounds, Repos Energy has steadily evolved from a last-mile logistics innovator into an AI-driven energy transition infrastructure company, and its VivaTech showcase is the most visible articulation of that pivot yet.   Repos Energy’s selection under ‘Bharat Innovates’ and its presence at VivaTech 2026 positions it at the intersection of two of India’s most consequential narratives: the global energy transition and India’s emerging identity as a deep-tech exporter. The company aims to use the platform to advance strategic global partnerships and attract international interest in its Autonomous Fuelling infrastructure.   About Repos Energy Founded in 2017 by Aditi Bhosale Walunj (Founder) and Chetan Walunj (Founder), Repos Energy is India’s pioneering AI-driven energy transition infrastructure and is on a mission to make all forms of energy accessible and efficient. With 2,500+ fuelling partners and 25,000+ businesses served across India, Repos Energy brings convenience, clarity, and control to nation-building organisations through technology, while doing its part for the planet. Backed by late Shri Ratan Tata, who invested in the company across two funding rounds, and having worked with the Government of India to establish the doorstep fuel delivery policy framework, Repos Energy stands for bringing a blend of innovation and excellence, to deliver value to consumers at large. For more information, visit www.reposenergy.com.

For decades, Bombay Times has chronicled the personalities, moments, and stories that have shaped India’s cultural landscape. Extending that legacy, the publication unveiled the inaugural edition of Bombay Times Headliners on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, introducing a new platform dedicated to recognising the individuals behind the headlines.   The inaugural edition of Bombay Times Headliners: Celebrating the people behind the headlines   Bringing together leading voices from entertainment, music, fashion, digital content, business, sports, and the creative industries, Headliners celebrates those whose work shapes conversations, inspires audiences, and leaves a lasting impact on society.   Adding a distinctive dimension to the property was the specially designed ‘Headliners’ trophy. Inspired by the iconic Bombay Times newspaper, the trophy takes the form of a rolled newspaper scroll, symbolising stories, achievements, and influence that rise above the ordinary to become headlines. The trophy honours visionaries, changemakers, and icons whose contributions have left a lasting mark across culture, business, entertainment, and society.   The inaugural edition brought together celebrated personalities including Javed Akhtar, Shabana Azmi, Naseeruddin Shah, Bhumi Pednekar, Maniesh Paul, Salim Merchant, Benny Dayal, Sophie Choudry, Ashnoor Kaur and several other distinguished names from across the entertainment and cultural ecosystem.   Reflecting the breadth of excellence celebrated by the platform, Headliners honoured a distinguished cohort of achievers whose contributions have shaped contemporary India. Among them were Kajol (Cinematic Force), Shabana Azmi (Legacy of Excellence), Ayushmann Khurrana (Champion of Disruptive Storytelling), Manish Malhotra (Global Fashion Ambassador), Shankar Mahadevan (Melody Maestro), Suniel Shetty (Multifaceted Star), Jaideep Ahlawat (Acting Trailblazer – Cinema & OTT), Bhumi Pednekar (Social Impact Champion), Malaika Arora (Lifestyle Entrepreneur), and Vedang Raina (Rising Star), among several other notable achievers.   The evening featured several memorable moments, including Javed Akhtar inaugurating the ceremony with the ceremonial lamp lighting, Shankar Mahadevan rendering a few lines from Lakshya, and a special on-stage interaction between Udit Narayan and Taha Shah, the spirit of creativity, collaboration, and excellence underscoring that Headliners seeks to celebrate.   Sivakumar Sundaram, CEO, The Times of India said, “For over three decades, Bombay Times has celebrated the people and moments that have shaped popular culture in India. With Headliners, we are recognising the individuals behind those defining stories whose influence extends far beyond their respective fields. We envision Headliners becoming a definitive platform honouring those who leave a lasting mark on audiences, industries, and society.”   With its successful debut, Bombay Times Headliners is poised to become a marquee annual property celebrating the people who shape conversations, influence culture, and create the moments that define our times.

This Father’s Day, Pocket FM has launched “The Villain Who Raised Me”, a digital film featuring actor Mukesh Rishi that reimagines the iconic screen villain as a metaphor for fathers who often had to play the role of the strict disciplinarian while raising their children.   Built around the insight that many children grow up viewing their fathers as the “villains” in their story – the ones who said no to late nights, shortcuts, and distractions, the campaign celebrates the sacrifices, tough decisions, and acts of tough love that ultimately helped shape them.   This Father’s Day, Pocket FM celebrates fathers whose advice becomes timeless wisdom   Through the film, Pocket FM pays tribute to fathers who were willing to be disliked in the moment because they cared more about their children’s future than their approval.   Featuring veteran actor Mukesh Rishi, one of Indian cinema’s most recognisable on-screen villains, the campaign explores a simple but universal truth: many fathers spend years playing the role of the villain in their children’s stories, only for their intentions to be understood much later.   Whether it was enforcing discipline, setting boundaries, making difficult choices, or refusing requests that seemed perfectly reasonable at the time, fathers often find themselves carrying the burden of being unpopular. Yet those very moments frequently become the lessons, values and habits that shape who we eventually become.   The campaign takes a fresh approach to Father’s Day by celebrating a side of fatherhood that is rarely acknowledged. Not the hero who saves the day, but the parent who is willing to be misunderstood in service of something bigger.   Bringing the idea to life is Mukesh Rishi, whose iconic villain roles have entertained audiences for decades. In the film, Rishi playfully embodies every father who has ever been labelled the villain by their child, before revealing the love, responsibility and sacrifice behind those difficult decisions.   Speaking about the campaign, Vineet Singh, SVP & Global Head, Brand Marketing, Communications, Partnerships & Public Affairs, Pocket FM, said, “Most Father’s Day campaigns celebrate fathers as heroes. We wanted to celebrate a role that many fathers know all too well — being the villain in their child’s story. They are often the ones who say no, draw the line, and make decisions that may not be appreciated in the moment. As children, we may resent those moments. As adults, we often realise they came from a place of love. ‘The Villain Who Raised Me’ is our tribute to the fathers who were willing to be misunderstood because they cared more about who we would become than how we felt in that moment.”   Commenting on the campaign, Mukesh Rishi said, “Every father has played the villain at some point, and I maybe have. Sometimes love means saying no. It means setting boundaries, making difficult decisions and accepting that your children may not understand your reasons immediately. That is what made this campaign so relatable for me. The irony of using my on-screen villain image to tell this story made it even more meaningful.”   Conceptualised and executed by Pocket FM’s in-house creative team, the campaign reflects the brand’s continued focus on storytelling that connects with audiences through relatable cultural insights and everyday human truths.   The campaign film is now live across Pocket FM’s social media channels.   YT Link: youtu.be/0WAsp_AjU20?si=3UO21PshALyK_tqR IG Link: www.instagram.com/reel/DZy-cjbsHrS/?igsh=bTZiZjZmZnA1M3Ri

The metro and non-metro regions in India’s used car market rarely agree on anything. Metro and non-metro buyers show different preferences on body type, features, on whether they even want a gearbox they have to operate themselves. On one point they agree – the Maruti Suzuki Swift is the most bought used car in the country, and it holds that spot in the biggest cities and the smallest towns alike.   For most of these buyers, the Swift is their first car. People reach for it when they have decided to stop depending on cabs, or when an older family car has started costing more at the workshop than it is worth. At that point a buyer wants the safe choice. Across 33 million users, the country keeps landing on the same one.   The Cars24 Team-BHP Gears of Growth report shows that the Swift holds a 4.93 percent share of all used car transactions nationally in 2025. In metro markets it leads at 5 percent. In non-metro markets it leads again at 4.80 percent. No other model in the report’s rankings appears at the top of more than one list. The Swift tops all three.   A lead that holds in every geography Nationally, the second-placed Wagon R sits at 3.47 percent, nearly a percentage and a half behind the Swift. In non-metro markets the distance is wider still: the Swift’s 4.80 percent share leads the second-placed Swift Dzire at 3.08 percent. In a market where the entire top 10 is separated by about three percentage points, that is a commanding margin.   Source: Cars24 Team-BHP Gears of Growth 2025 Report   Below the top spot the two lists pull apart fast. Metro buyers put the Honda City fourth and the Baleno fifth, both cars the report links to upgrade demand, newer model years and automatic gearboxes. Non-metro buyers rank the Swift Dzire second and push the Alto into their top 10, cars the report calls value-led and cheap to keep running. Two very different markets, one shared first choice.   Why the used Swift travels where other models cannot The report records that the second-hand Swift leads across all three markets. The reasons behind it sit in plain sight across the rest of the data.   First, the Swift is a hatchback, and hatchbacks still own this market. They make up 52 percent of all used car transactions in 2025, against 32 percent for SUVs and 16 percent for sedans. The report calls hatchbacks the backbone of the used market, cheap to run and easy to thread through city traffic. The Swift sits dead centre of that demand.   Second, the Swift fits how India actually drives. Manual gearboxes account for 72 percent of used car sales, and that share runs highest outside the metros. Most used Swifts are manual, frugal on fuel and cheap to fix, which lines them up with the largest pool of used car buyers.   Third, supply and resale, which buyers feel directly. Maruti has sold Swifts in volume since the mid-2000s, and its service network reaches towns most brands never bother with. For a first-time used car buyer, that cuts two ways. Any local mechanic can fix it, and when the time comes to sell, a Swift moves fast because the next buyer trusts it for the same reasons. The report puts the Swift’s lead down to this appeal across price points and age groups. People buy what they know they can repair anywhere and sell without a fight.   What the Swift’s lead does not mean The data deserves an honest reading. These are transactions on Cars24, drawn from more than 33 million users as of December 2025, not national registrations. Part of the Swift’s lead is simply supply: it tops the used charts partly because so many were sold new. And topping the charts is not the same as being the right car for everyone. The same report shows the Creta as the only SUV in the national top 10, proof that a growing group of buyers wants something the Swift is not.   The lead will may not hold forever either. SUV share of the used market has more than doubled since 2023, from 15 percent to 32 percent. Today’s new SUVs are the used stock of 2027 and 2028, and as that supply matures the hatchback’s grip on the top of the charts can loosen.   For now, the finding holds. In a used car market splitting into two Indias, one upgrading and one just arriving, the Swift is the answer both keep giving.   About the data All figures in this article are sourced from the Cars24 x Team BHP Gears of Growth 2025 report, based on Cars24’s internal transaction data comprising over 33 million users as of December 2025. Model shares refer to the share out of total used car transactions.