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  • Sonali Kulkarni Highlights ‘Asmita’ and Its Role in Girl Empowerment on International Girl Child Day

    PUNE: “The rising population is bringing with it a lot of associated challenges, especially the ones relating to women’s safety and security. Parents today face an overwhelming sense of fear as they read daily reports of women’s exploitation, assault, and other injustices. In this context, the ‘Asmita’ initiative aimed at empowering girls is truly reassuring and comforting”, said renowned actress Sonali Kulkarni during the inauguration of ‘Asmita’, a program designed towards Girl Empowerment.  She also emphasized that this program assures women that they are not alone, that there are numerous resources available to support them, and many people whom they can trust.

    The fourth phase of the ‘Asmita’ program, focusing on girl empowerment, was inaugurated on International Girl Child Day by the Rotary Club of Bibwewadi. The event took place at the Radisson Blue Hotel in Kharadi. Since its inception in 2019, supported by the CSR department of GTPL, the program has helped over one lakh girls across five states.

    During the event, B.P.K (Bob) Shah, a senior entrepreneur, and philanthropist, was honored with the ‘Vocational Service Award’ from the Rotary Club of Bibwewadi in the august presence of Sonali Kulkarni, Divya Momaya- Director of CSR GTPL, Saurabh Banerjee – CFO, GTPL, Sheetal Shah – District Governor 3131, Nitin Dhamale – Governor Elect, Mohan Palesha & Pankaj Shah – former District Governors, Manasi Shah – President, Bibwewadi Club, and project coordinators Dr. Jignesh Pandya and Dr. Prachi Pandya along with Bhavin Desai & Nikhil Bhalerao.

    In her speech, Kulkarni reflected, “My generation was not even aware of the term mental health, let alone the concept. Today’s generation is lucky to be informed about these issues, and they have the knowledge and resources to address them. The presence of councilors in their schools is a significant change.”

    Kulkarni expressed her gratitude for the solid support system she received from her parents, brothers, and a supportive husband throughout her career. She feels fortunate to have had great friends and colleagues in the film industry. Her mentors taught her to remain sensitive and act with integrity, allowing her to work honestly without comparing herself to male cofactors, which has made a significant difference in her journey.

    Manasi Shah, while providing details about the initiative, stated, “For the past five years, our club has been working to raise awareness among girl students about menstruation, sexual violence, self-defence, cyberbullying, and financial literacy. We have successfully reached out to about one lakh girls across 200 locations and aim to reach an additional fifty thousand in the coming year. Considering the importance of mental health, the fourth phase will focus on the mental well-being of college girls and provide both theoretical and practical knowledge to them.”

    Divya Momaya emphasized the need for women to become financially independent and highlighted the challenges women face in corporate settings. She noted, “When a woman in the household is educated, the entire family benefits, but when she ventures into business and becomes financially independent, she shapes the next generation.”

    B.P.K (Bob) Shah shared insights about his journey and the global work done with Rotary. The event began with a prayer by Ahana Bhalerao, followed by the opening remarks from Manasi Shah. Dr. Jignesh Pandya hosted the proceedings, and Bhavin Desai presented the vote of thanks.

  • Anvat: Honoring the Artistic Journey of Kathak Maestro Dr. Rohini Bhate

    PUNE: To mark the birth centenary year of Kathak exponent and art scholar, Late Guru Dr. Rohini Bhate, Rujuta Soman, her direct disciple and the founder of Navasarjan Lalit Kala Foundation in association with Rithwik Foundation for Performing Arts is presenting a two-day celebration ‘Anvat – Unleashing Artistry Beyond Limits’ on 5th and 6th of October 2024 at Shreeram Lagoo Rang Avakash, Tilak Road, Pune.

    The event is split into two sessions with morning sessions from 10 am to 1 pm and evening sessions from 5 pm to 8 pm. Entry for the program is free for all on a first come first served basis. The event also marks the silver jubilee of the Rujuta Soman Cultural Academy (RSCA), founded by Rujuta Soman.

    Speaking about the event, Rujuta Soman said, “I have spent my formative years with Guru Rohini Bhate and was immensely inspired and positively influenced by her exemplary way of approaching Kathak, experimenting with content, music, and choreographies, while honoring the traditional boundaries of Kathak. ‘Anvat’ is an effort to celebrate, demonstrate, and throw light on the paths less taken in different disciplines of art. It refers to innovative and experimental works that break away from traditional norms and leave their mark behind.”

    The event is split into 2 parts. The first part is a symposium spread over 2 days with visionaries like Kathak Dancer Prajakta Raj, Film Educator Anupam Barve, Filmmaker Kranti Kanade, Artist/Curator Raju Sutar, Kathak Guru Shama Bhate, and Tabla Maestro Taalyogi Pt Suresh Talwalkar who will deliberate the creative journeys and the innovations that have transformed the art forms.

    The second part comprises performances that illustrate innovative thoughts and compositions through Hindustani vocal, Kathak, and Bharatanatyam recitals that will bring out the great work done by Guru Rohini Bhate and her students. Rujuta Soman and her disciples will present a few of the exemplary compositions passed on to them by Guru Rohini Bhate.

    The morning symposium on 5th October has been planned between 10 am and 1 pm with speakers like Prajakta Atre, Anupam Barve, and Guru Shama Bhate. The evening session from 5 pm to 9 pm will feature performances by the renowned vocalist from Bhendi Bazar Gharana Anuradha Kuber, a group performance by senior students of RSCA, a solo performance by Rujuta Soman, and an experimental presentation titled ‘Rujutap’.

    The morning session on 6th October will also be held between 10 am to 1 pm showcasing “Venugaan” a dance theatre via Bharatanatyam by Vaibhav Aarekar and ‘Kavitali’, a presentation originally conceptualized and choreographed by Guru Rohini Bhate to be performed by Rujuta Soman and her students.

    The Evening symposium program will be from 5 pm to 8 pm and will include curator Raju Sutar, filmmaker Kranti Kanade, and Taalyogi Pandit Suresh Talwalkar. All the events will be accompanied by Charudatta Phadke and Sameer Puntambekar on Tabla Yashwant Thitte on Harmonium, vocals by Arpita Vaishampayan, Jaydeep Vaidya, Mukta Joshi; Tushar Dixit on Keyboard and Anup Kulthe on Violin.

  • Maharashtra Takes a Stand Against Spam Calls and SMS with Airtel’s Innovative AI Network Solution

    Free of-cost solution with automatic activation for Airtel customers on all devices

    PUNE: Bharti Airtel through its AI-powered spam detection solution has given much-needed relief to its customers in Maharashtra. In the last 7 days since its launch, the system, a first-of-its-kind solution by a telecom service provider, has been able to successfully identify 70 million potential spam calls and 1.2 million spam SMS in Maharashtra.

    The solution, which is free of cost, has been auto-activated for all Airtel customers without them having to raise a service request or download an app. 

    Commenting on the launch, George Mathen, Chief Executive Officer, Maharashtra and Goa, Bharti Airtel, said, “Every scam begins with a spam call. As a result, most people are reluctant to receive calls from numbers they do not recognize or to click on a link shared via SMS. With Airtel’s AI-powered solution, all such fears can be put to rest. 33 million Airtel customers in Maharashtra no longer have to worry about any such frauds since Airtel has empowered them with a defense mechanism that will alert them to all such spam calls and SMSes in real-time. Available only to Airtel customers, this solution will be one of the key differentiators compared to other service providers in the state. We are committed to working towards removing all annoying disturbances for our customers.”

    Developed in-house by Airtel’s data scientists, the AI-powered solution uses a proprietary algorithm to identify and classify calls and SMSes as “Suspected Spam”. The network powered by a state-of-the-art AI algorithm analyses various parameters such as the caller or sender’s usage patterns, call/SMS frequency, and call duration amongst several others, on a real-time basis. By cross-referencing this information against known spam patterns, the system flags suspected spam calls and SMSes accurately. 

    A dual-layered protection, the solution has two filters – one at the network layer and the second at the IT systems layer. Every call and SMS passes through this dual-layered AI shield. In two milliseconds the solution processes 1.5 billion messages and 2.5 billion calls. This is equivalent to processing 1 trillion records on a real-time basis using the power of AI.

    Additionally, the solution also alerts customers to malicious links received via SMS. For this, Airtel has built a centralized database of blacklisted URLs and every SMS is scanned in real-time by a state-of-the-art AI algorithm to caution users from accidentally clicking on suspicious links. The solution can also detect anomalies such as frequent IMEI changes – a typical indicator of fraudulent behavior. By layering these protective measures, the company is ensuring its customers receive the maximum level of defense against the evolving landscape of spam and fraud threats.

  • GOPIO Introduces India Collection at Parsippany Public Library in Collaboration with the Indian Consulate

    UNITED STATES: Global Organization of People of Indian Origin-North Jersey Chapter (GOPIO-North Jersey) in cooperation with the Indian Consulate in New York, along with co-sponsors Parsippany Rotary International, Heart and Hand for Handicapped and Gandhian Society and with support from a dozen area community groups organized the launch the India Collection of Books at the Parsippany Library in New Jersey on Sunday, September 29th at the library. With a house full crowd with many standing on the side and back, the launch was inaugurated by Indian Consul for Visa and Community Affairs Pragya Singh in the presence of Library President Melisa Kuzma, Parsippany Mayor James Barberio, Former AP and Telangana Minister from India Ponnala Lakshmaiah, New Jersey Commissioner Upendra Chivukula, the White House Policy Advisor on Energy Jai Vaingankar and community leaders.

    The program started with a welcome from the Program chair Rajendar Dichpally who serves as the Director of Gandhian Society and Founder of the Zakir Hussain Foundation in the USA. “Efforts like this will help the Indian American Community and also strengthen the bond between the two largest democracies,” said Dichpally.

    In his welcome remarks, Program Co-chair Santosh Peddi, who serves as the President of the Parsippany Rotary International said that Rotary was happy to co-sponsor the event as part of its social/community outreach. Children follow the singing of American and Indian national anthems.

    The Library Director Melissa Kuzma said she was happy to host the India Initiative event at the library as this reflects the diverse attributes of the library. She was happy to receive so many books of different genres and said they reflect the rich and diverse culture of India. She also said that the library would host an event to celebrate Diwali in late October.

    Welcoming everyone to Parsippany, Mayor Jamie Barberio said that Parsippany was home to many Indian Americans, and he was proud that many of them have contributed to making Parsippany a better town. Mayor Barberio, who is of Italian origin, also said that he always felt Indian Americans and Italian Americans have similar attributes and was happy to see that the India Initiative in Parsippany Library was seeing so much good response.

    GOPIO International Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham who initiated and coordinated this effort from GOPIO told the audience that Indian Americans have done extremely well professionally, politically, and financially and that the community should do more for the larger society. In this regard, GOPIO chapters in the New York area have successfully launched the India Collection of books at the public libraries in Norwalk and Stamford in Connecticut, Edison, New Jersey, and Queens and Long Island in New York State.

    “We found that these books are very valuable resources for the larger society to know about India and Indian culture, its democracy, political leaders and social reformers, economy, and India’s relations with countries around the world,” said Dr. Abraham.

    Dr. Abraham thanked the Parsippany Library for launching the India Collection of Books. The inauguration was done with the traditional lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries, GOPIO officials, and co-sponsoring organizations.

    The books were provided by the Indian Consulate and GOPIO further supplemented books collected from our community who are downsizing. These included new books and old classics which are not available anywhere else now. Several language-based classics were presented by those who were in traditional dress.

    Consul Pragya Singh, who is Head of Visa and Passport renewals at the Indian Consulate, and also Consul for Community Affairs said that India was a very diverse and plural country and the consulate was happy to assist and work with local Indian Organizations in strengthening the bond between India and USA with the help of initiatives like this where the consulate donated diverse and useful books for the benefit of the Indian community and the American society.

    Upendra Chivukula (Former Assembly Speaker of New Jersey) was happy to see so many Indian Americans turn out for this India Initiative event and also hoped to see the community take an active part in local politics so that this will help the community to have its voice heard in decision making.

    Former Andhra Pradesh and Telangana minister from India Ponnala Lakshmaiah who was also a former Resident of Parsippany said that he was happy to take part in the event in his former hometown and said life has come a full circle for him as he had started working at the age of 6 in a library to fund his education and today his autobiography along with other valuable books he donated were being put in the Parsippany library. He thanked the organizers and wished success to the India initiative.

    After the ceremony, some classic books in Hindi and half a dozen regional languages were presented by community representatives in their traditional dress. After describing the book and reading a passage from the book, these books were presented to the Library’s Head of Information Services Nicholas Jackson. These books will be cataloged and will be available soon from the library.

    A cultural program followed with music and dances from India put together by Mrs. Manju Bhargava, President of the New Jersey Telegu Association. The dancers were Indian American high school and college students.

    The program continued with a networking reception. Since the ceremony and cultural program were brief, people had ample to time to meet and greet each other.

    “This was one of the best library launches of India Collection of Books with wider Indian community participation,’ remarked Dr. Abraham.

    Parsippany Library India Collection of Books Launch group with Library and GOPIO officials, guests, organizers, and Performers

    GOPIO is collecting old Indian classic books and contemporary books in all Indian languages from the community to donate to other libraries. Those who want to donate may contact GOPIO at 203-329-8010 or send an e-mail to [email protected]

  • Indian American Ravi Ahuja Named CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment

    New York, NY, October 3, 2024: In a landmark announcement, Sony Group Corporation has appointed Indian American Ravi Ahuja as the new President and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE), effective January 2, 2025. Ahuja, who currently serves as SPE’s Chairman of Global Television Studios and President and COO, will succeed Tony Vinciquerra, who will step down from his role but remain in an advisory position as non-executive Chairman until December 2025.

    Reporting directly to Sony Group Corporation Chairman and CEO Kenichiro Yoshida and Sony Group Corporation President Hiroki Totoki, Ahuja is expected to further Sony Pictures’ legacy of innovation and creativity in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape.

    “Since joining SPE in 2021, Ravi has been pivotal in guiding the company through unprecedented challenges in the media industry,” said Yoshida. “His leadership, coupled with his vast experience at some of the most successful entertainment companies, makes him the ideal candidate to take SPE into the future.”

    Ahuja, a Harvard graduate, has a wealth of experience in entertainment management, having previously held executive roles at Walt Disney Television and Fox Networks Group. During his time at Sony Pictures, he oversaw the production of hit television series like The Crown, Better Call Saul, and The Last of Us, and spearheaded several mergers and acquisitions that strengthened the company’s portfolio.

    Speaking on his new role, Ahuja expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “This is a special place—an iconic studio with a rich 100-year history of storytelling. Thanks to Tony’s remarkable leadership, we are set up for even greater success in the years to come,” said Ahuja.

    Ahuja’s ascension to the top role at Sony Pictures is also seen as a reflection of the increasing representation of Indian Americans in leadership positions within global corporations. His journey from overseeing business operations at Disney to leading Sony Pictures speaks to the growing influence of the Indian American community in shaping global industries.

    As Sony Pictures enters a new era under Ravi Ahuja’s leadership, the Indian American community can take pride in his remarkable achievements and look forward to how he will further Sony’s global impact.

    Cover photo credit: Sony Pictures website.

  • MethodHub – A journey of global expansion led by founder Aho Bilam

    NRI PULSE STAFF FEATURE

    Atlanta, GA, October 1, 2024: In a tech-driven world, MethodHub stands out as a global IT services firm that is not only evolving rapidly but is also expanding into critical technological areas. Founded in 2019 by Aho Bilam, the company has grown from its humble beginnings in India to a global player with operations in six countries, including the U.S., Canada, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia and India.

    Recently, Bilam spoke to NRI Pulse about his vision to further MethodHub’s growth in the American market.

    Chennai-born Bilam’s journey began far from the fast-paced tech world. He earned a mechanical engineering degree, followed by an MBA in marketing from the College of Engineering, Guindy. It was his transition into selling ERP solutions like SAP that opened the doors to the IT sector in the early 1990s.

    “I initially got into sales, specifically selling ERP solutions like SAP,” he shared. His deep understanding of the manufacturing process led him into the IT sector, where he transitioned fully by 1994. Since then, he’s accumulated nearly 30 years of experience, primarily in fulfillment, including recruitment and staffing for top companies.

    The Genesis of MethodHub

    Bilam’s entrepreneurial spirit flourished when he joined Innova Solutions (which he calls Innova Solutions 1.0) and later Clairvoyant, a company he helped build into a $42 million business. Clairvoyant was sold to Innova Solutions 2.0. Following that, he started MethodHub in 2019 in India.

    Six months after launching MethodHub, the pandemic hit and the world shut down. The company lost all its business. However, despite the initial setback, Bilam rebuilt the business from scratch.

    “We began with the lowest level of business — RPO — and built ourselves up,” he says.

    MethodHub now specializes in offering various IT services, including recruitment, managed services, project services, and platform development.

    “We began with Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) but quickly moved up to project services for major clients, like OnPoint Warranty and some of the largest banks and oil companies in Thailand,” Bilam explained. Today, MethodHub works with top-tier clients such as TransUnion, Halliburton, Telus, and Ericsson.

    What sets MethodHub apart, Bilam emphasized, is its agility and focus on cutting-edge technologies. “We are a younger company, so we’ve adopted new technologies—cloud migration, AI, data services, and cybersecurity—faster than most larger firms. Our strength lies in our ability to show proof of concept quickly, which resonates with customers looking for tangible results before committing to new investments.”

    MethodHub’s growth trajectory has been remarkable, with the company now generating over $35 million in revenue within five years. With four key verticals—banking, healthcare, oil & gas, and telecom—and expertise in cloud, AI, data, and cybersecurity, Bilam sees even more potential ahead.

    The company is now over 600-strong and headquartered in Wilmington, DE.

    A Global Footprint

    Today, the company is thriving with operations in six countries and over 120 employees in Thailand alone, where it services top banks like Bangkok Bank and Kasikorn Bank, along with PTT, Thailand’s largest oil company. In Canada, MethodHub recently acquired a 51% stake in Zortech, a company that works with Telus, Canada’s leading telecom firm.

    “Timing has been key,” Bilam reflects on the company’s rapid growth. In just five years, MethodHub has grown to over $35 million in revenue, expanding its client base to cover critical industries like financial services, healthcare, oil and gas, and telecom.

    Carving a Niche in America’s IT Landscape

    Now that Bilam has relocated to Atlanta, he sees a great opportunity for MethodHub to service mid-sized companies in the US. “We’re targeting companies in the $100 million to $3 billion revenue range,” Bilam explains. Larger firms often overlook this sector, leaving space for MethodHub to fill a gap with tailored IT services.

    The MethodHub Edge

    What sets MethodHub apart from its competitors? Bilam explains that, being a younger company, MethodHub has adapted more quickly to cutting-edge technologies like cloud migration, data services, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. “We are in areas where the customers want to see tangible results. We can quickly present prototypes or proof of concepts, something larger firms may struggle with due to bureaucratic hurdles.”

    This agility positions MethodHub uniquely to attract companies looking to stay ahead in rapidly evolving technological fields. “We focus on four core technologies: cloud, data, AI, and cybersecurity,” Bilam adds. With a strong track record, especially with high-profile clients like TransUnion, MethodHub is poised to make a significant impact in the U.S. market.

    Looking Ahead

    MethodHub’s journey is far from over. Bilam reveals plans for an IPO in India worth $8-10 million (INR 70 crore range). This move will provide the company with the capital needed for further acquisitions in the U.S. “We’re looking for companies with strong branding, project work, and logos,” Bilam says, indicating that MethodHub’s expansion is strategic and focused.

    After the Indian IPO, the company will explore entering the U.S. market with similar moves, depending on the economic climate. The goal? To become a dominant player in mid-market IT services, especially in areas where innovation and speed are critical.

    MethodHub, under the leadership of Aho Bilam, has come a long way in just five years. From starting with recruitment services to offering complex project management solutions, the company’s trajectory is one of agility and strategic growth. With its eyes set on the mid-sized companies of the US and beyond, and a strong foothold in data-driven industries, MethodHub is positioned to be a major player in the global IT services space.

    As Bilam himself says, “The opportunities are there, and we’re ready to seize them.”

  • Calibike: Indian American-led electric bike revolutionizing sustainable transportation

    NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT

    Corona, CA, October 1, 2024: Calibike, an innovative electric bike company led by Indian American entrepreneur Rafe Husain, was officially launched on September 14, 2024, at a ceremony held at the Corona City Council Hall. The launch was attended by Mayor Tom Richins of Corona, who praised the company’s commitment to eco-friendly transportation and its alignment with California’s push towards zero-emission vehicles. “Calibike represents the kind of forward-thinking solution we need to reduce our environmental impact,” said Mayor Richins.

    Calibike is at the forefront of sustainable transportation, offering electric bikes that aim to reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions. The company’s electric bikes are designed to provide a green and convenient alternative for short and long commutes, positioning them as a key player in California’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Calibike’s products are powered by advanced batteries similar to those used in Tesla cars, making them one of the top sellers of e-bike batteries in the U.S.

    Led by Rafe Husain, the only Indian American innovator in the electric bike industry, Calibike is also a key component in improving public transport access. The company aims to work in conjunction with Brightline West, the upcoming high-speed rail connecting Las Vegas and Southern California. Calibike’s electric bikes will provide a sustainable last-mile solution, helping commuters travel from train stations to their final destinations in an environmentally friendly manner.

    In a gesture of community support, Calibike donated electric bikes to the City of Corona to assist Park Rangers in patrolling local parks. Mayor Richins praised the donation, stating that it will not only reduce emissions but also help protect the city’s natural resources more efficiently.

    Calibike’s launch comes at a time when California is pushing for 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035, with state tax rebates making electric vehicles more affordable. Calibike is positioned to play a critical role in this initiative, offering residents an easy and green commuting option while supporting the state’s sustainability goals.

    For more information, visit www.CaliBike.com.

  • Calibike: Indian American-led electric bike revolutionizing sustainable transportation

    NRI PULSE STAFF REPORT

    Corona, CA, October 1, 2024: Calibike, an innovative electric bike company led by Indian American entrepreneur Rafe Husain, was officially launched on September 14, 2024, at a ceremony held at the Corona City Council Hall. The launch was attended by Mayor Tom Richins of Corona, who praised the company’s commitment to eco-friendly transportation and its alignment with California’s push towards zero-emission vehicles. “Calibike represents the kind of forward-thinking solution we need to reduce our environmental impact,” said Mayor Richins.

    Calibike is at the forefront of sustainable transportation, offering electric bikes that aim to reduce traffic congestion and carbon emissions. The company’s electric bikes are designed to provide a green and convenient alternative for short and long commutes, positioning them as a key player in California’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Calibike’s products are powered by advanced batteries similar to those used in Tesla cars, making them one of the top sellers of e-bike batteries in the U.S.

    Led by Rafe Husain, the only Indian American innovator in the electric bike industry, Calibike is also a key component in improving public transport access. The company aims to work in conjunction with Brightline West, the upcoming high-speed rail connecting Las Vegas and Southern California. Calibike’s electric bikes will provide a sustainable last-mile solution, helping commuters travel from train stations to their final destinations in an environmentally friendly manner.

    In a gesture of community support, Calibike donated electric bikes to the City of Corona to assist Park Rangers in patrolling local parks. Mayor Richins praised the donation, stating that it will not only reduce emissions but also help protect the city’s natural resources more efficiently.

    Calibike’s launch comes at a time when California is pushing for 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035, with state tax rebates making electric vehicles more affordable. Calibike is positioned to play a critical role in this initiative, offering residents an easy and green commuting option while supporting the state’s sustainability goals.

    For more information, visit www.CaliBike.com.

  • Skechers Unveils the Fifth Edition of the Mumbai Walkathon

    MUMBAI: Skechers, The Comfort Technology Company®, a leading American performance and lifestyle footwear brand, is set to host the 5th edition of the Skechers Mumbai Walkathon at InOrbit Mall, Malad, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s journey. The Skechers Mumbai Walkathon celebrates the highly popular Skechers GO WALK® product category, which features innovative footwear designed especially for walking.

    Registrations for the Skechers Mumbai Walkathon 2024 are now open! Participants can register until 8th November 2024 via the official link: www.skecherswalkathon.in. This year, Skechers will continue its collaboration with the GoSports Foundation, pledging a part of its registration fee proceeds to support Indian athletes through the foundation’s Long-Term Athlete Development Programme. The event is expected to build on the success of previous editions like last year’s Walkathon which saw over 8,000 participants—highlighting the event’s importance as a cornerstone for fitness enthusiasts nationwide. The Walkathon will continue Skechers’ tradition of promoting fitness by encouraging the next generation of Indian athletes, promoting an active lifestyle, and contributing to India’s growing sports culture.

    Rahul Vira, CEO of Skechers South Asia Pvt. Ltd., said, “Last year’s Walkathon demonstrated the remarkable impact Skechers can have on promoting an active lifestyle and supporting young athletes, as we saw significant community engagement and substantial contributions towards the development of India’s future sports stars. The Skechers Mumbai Walkathon has evolved into a highly anticipated fitness event in the city. This year, our collaboration with GoSports Foundation will aim to bring the city together in a festive atmosphere, promoting fitness as a culture in Mumbai.”

    Deepthi Bopaiah, CEO of GoSports Foundation, commented, “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Skechers. Their support has been instrumental to the overall success of the GoSports Long-Term Athlete Development Programme (GLTADP). The CSR funds from Skechers have supported the athletes across 10 sports and facilitated various aspects of the program, including athlete development initiatives, competition support, and overall program enhancements. Additionally, their contributions have enabled specific interventions across our organization. This year’s Walkathon donation will ensure our athletes receive sustained support at multiple sports platforms.”

    Together, Skechers India and GoSports Foundation aim to support Indian sports and wellness programs in an impactful way. Skechers’ involvement has enabled broad-based athlete support—including facilitating participation in international competitions, providing necessary training equipment, and supporting mental and physical well-being initiatives for athletes. This has also led to the program’s athletes achieving milestones in national and world championships.

    This year, the 5th edition of Walkathon will feature multiple walking categories, including a 10 km walk for avid walkers, a 5 km walk for those aspiring to take up walking as a sport, and a 3 km fun walk. These categories cater to participants of various fitness levels, offering a delightful and invigorating walking experience around the scenic route of InOrbit Mall, Malad.

    To register or learn more about Skechers Mumbai Walkathon, visit https://www.skecherswalkathon.in.

  • Atmosphere Living Welcomes Arun Chauhan as New Executive Director

    MUMBAI: Atmosphere Living, a premier luxury real estate firm renowned for its unique approach to luxury living, has appointed Arun Chauhan as Executive Director. With over three and a half decades of international experience in the banking and finance sectors, Arun brings a wealth of knowledge and strategic expertise to the organization.

    As Executive Director at Atmosphere Living, Arun will be responsible for steering the company’s strategic direction, leveraging his expertise in risk management, corporate finance, and international trade to elevate the company’s portfolio and enhance its presence in luxury real estate markets.

    We’re delighted to have Arun on board, bringing his vast banking and finance expertise. His strategic guidance will enhance our operational growth, risk management, and market expansion, further solidifying our market presence and excellence says Sandeep Ahuja, Global CEO, of Atmosphere Living

    Arun’s career began at the State Bank of India post where he went on to progress towards various senior positions across India and the Maldives, focusing on Branch Banking, Corporate Finance, Foreign Exchange, and International Trade Finance. His experience expanded further when he joined M Holdings Group in East Africa as Chief Credit Officer, later transitioning to Strategy Director. In these roles, he spearheaded credit risk management and business development initiatives across Sub-Saharan Africa.