Category: Leaders

FROM FORMULATIONS TO FACADES

Ms. Susmita Nag graduated with a degree Chemical Engineering followed by Post Graduation degree in Business Administration with a specialisation in sales & marketing. She began her professional journey as a research associate at Jubilant, a leading global pharmaceutical and CPG firm, where she focused on product formulations. After gaining two years of experience, she transitioned to ICI India Limited as the Senior Product Manager.

Throughout her sales & marketing career, she has held roles at companies such as Samsung India Electronics Limited and Jubilant, honing her skills in strategic planning, consumer insights, and brand marketing. Ms. Susmita joined Fenesta in June 2014 and currently serves as the Chief Marketing Officer at Fenesta, a unit of DCM Shriram Ltd., known for end-to-end solutions in uPVC, Aluminium and Engineered wooden windows and doors as well as Facades in India and international markets.

Under her leadership, Fenesta not only rose to the position of a market leader but has also expanded its presence and impact in the competitive construction and home renovation industry. She has made a significant impact at Fenesta by spearheading integrated marketing campaigns that effectively combine traditional and digital platforms. This comprehensive strategy has enabled Fenesta to reach a broader demographic while maintaining a unified brand voice. Through her guidance, the company has seen growth in customer loyalty and satisfaction, both pivotal factors in the fiercely competitive Windows and Doors industry.

A COMMITMENT TO CONTINUOUS LEARNING

Ms. Susmita Nag is a versatile professional with extensive expertise in marketing, having worked across diverse industries including paints, televisions, mobiles, IT products, and home decor. Her specialisations encompass brand management, product management, channel management, and digital marketing. She actively participates in professional forums such as IMA, DMA, and WARC, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning and growth. Additionally, she has received training in Six Sigma and has successfully completed numerous green belt projects.

UNIQUE LEADERSHIP STYLE

Ms. Susmita is recognised for her collaborative leadership style and dedication to continuous learning. She encourages her team to think creatively and make well-considered decisions, fostering a culture of innovation within the marketing department.

This approach has helped Fenesta remain competitive with cutting-edge ideas and strategies. Ms. Susmita has been instrumental in leading multiple projects at Fenesta, significantly enhancing the brand’s recognition and market standing. She has effectively utilised various online platforms to engage with customers and has implemented data-driven strategies to personalize marketing campaigns.

CARING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

Apart from her impressive achievements in her career, Ms. Susmita is deeply passionate about making a difference in society. She actively promotes the adoption of sustainable practices within the industry and actively participates in projects that aim to raise awareness about environmental responsibility. Her unwavering commitment to sustainability perfectly complements Fenesta’s dedication to providing environment-friendly products, further solidifying the brand’s reputation as a frontrunner in sustainable construction solutions.

Mr. RR Palleti’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2019 when he founded the LSSR Group. What started as a small startup with big dreams has become a trusted partner for global FinTech companies.

CLIENT-CENTRIC LEADERSHIP

Mr. RR Palleti believes in putting his clients’ needs first. His dedication to client satisfaction has been crucial in driving LSSR Group’s success. His commitment to building strong relationships with clients has promoted a culture of trust and collaboration within the company. Through a keen eye for market development and an in-depth understanding of the FinTech industry, he has built a reputation for reliability and trust. Domestic and global clients confidently turn to the LSSR Group, knowing that their financial interests are in capable hands.

PASSIONATE ABOUT INNOVATION

Mr. RR Palleti is a champion of innovation. His insatiable appetite for novel concepts and strategic ingenuity has propelled the group to the forefront of its industry. Under his leadership, the company has consistently developed cutting-edge FinTech solutions that address the unique needs of clients in various markets. This commitment to innovation has not only enhanced LSSR Group’s competitive advantage but has also positioned it as a catalyst for industry progress. Furthermore, his exemplary leadership has been instrumental in developing the group’s most successful offerings, besides inspiring his team to transcend the boundaries of conventional thinking.

UNFAZED BY CHALLENGES

Mr. RR Palleti embraces challenges with enthusiasm and actively seeks inventive solutions to overcome obstacles. This entrepreneurial spirit has been crucial to LSSR Group’s success. This attribute has enabled the company to deliver clientfocused solutions not only in line with market demands but also in line with future trends.

Furthermore, Mr. RR Palleti’s pragmatic approach to problem-solving has been a key factor in LSSR Group’s success. His ability to balance visionary thinking with practical solutions has enabled the company to overcome challenges and seize lucrative opportunities in the competitive FinTech domain. The dynamic entrepreneur’s unique blend of visionary thinking and pragmatic problem-solving has positioned him as a driving force for innovation at LSSR Group.

A TECH-SAVVY LEADER

Mr. RR Palleti has unparalleled expertise in financial technology. Over the years, he has accumulated extensive knowledge in various aspects of FinTech, including financial trading, Multi Asset liquidity, digital assets, corporate services and brokerage services. His expertise in these areas allows him to offer valuable insights and guidance to businesses, besides helping them optimise their operations and stay ahead of market trends and competition. From the outset, he saw the potential for FinTech to shake up the financial world. Therefore, the tech-savvy mastermind behind the LSSR Group actively leverages technology to make financial services faster, easier,
and more accessible to a wider audience.

Today, this global FinTech consulting firm specialises in incorporations, licensing, and a comprehensive suite of FinTech solutions, including multi-asset liquidity and payment technology services.

The forward-thinking leader is equally well-versed in the digital asset space. He has not only contributed to the growth and development of the digital asset industry but has also helped numerous businesses leverage the power of blockchain and cryptocurrencies. His expert guidance helps companies confidently integrate digital assets into their operations, thus giving them a competitive edge in today’s competitive market.

A NEW ERA FOR LSSR GROUP

Mr. RR Palleti’s leadership style focuses on identifying opportunities before they even appear. The gritty leader doesn’t shy away from venturing into uncharted territory and goes the extra mile to stay ahead of the curve. In 2024, the ambitious leader steered the company through a significant rebranding, which marked the dawn of a new era. The rebrand is accompanied by a range of new services. Now known as LSSR.COM, the company has launched a suite of new services in Multi-Asset Liquidity, Prop Technology, and Payments Technology—each tailored to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving financial domain. To round things out, the leader has streamlined payment solutions with the latest FinTech innovations to facilitate a smooth and efficient experience for everyone involved.

Nevertheless, the story doesn’t end there. Mr. RR Palleti, a true global citizen, understands that the world of finance knows no borders. To cater to his growing clientele across the Asia-Pacific region, LSSR Group has recently opened a new office in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. This move has strengthened the group’s commitment to providing world-class consulting services.

Furthermore, Mr. RR Palleti believes that trust is the foundation of any successful business partnership. He adheres to a straightforward business philosophy and believes in keeping his promises. His commitment to ethical practices has earned him a reputation as a man of his word in the FinTech industry, and this has helped LSSR Group build strong and lasting relationships with clients and partners around the world.

GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY

Mr. RR Palleti has carved out a niche for himself as an advocate for underprivileged people. As the founder of the Jyothir Foundation (a non-profit organisation), he has dedicated himself to making a meaningful difference in society. The benevolent leader has embarked on a mission to alleviate hunger, promote education, and safeguard our planet. Additionally, he has spearheaded numerous initiatives through the foundation that have positively impacted countless lives. From providing sustenance to the needy to nurturing the minds of marginalised children, his efforts have been nothing short of inspiring. The leader believes that everyone should contribute to creating a better world. With steadfast determination, he has gone above and beyond to ensure that the Jyothir Foundation leaves a lasting legacy. His commitment to environmental conservation is particularly noteworthy, as he emphasises the urgent need to protect our planet for future generations.

A qualified Mechanical Engineer from Mysore University in Karnataka (India), Feroze also holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Management, specializing in Derivatives & Finance. Before joining Anand Rathi in 2012, the young leader worked for prominent companies such as Religare Macquarie & RBS for seven years. A bright thinker, several of his product ideas have succeeded in the market linked debenture segment.

THE TORCH BEARER

As the Deputy CEO, Feroze charts the strategic direction for the company, aligning its strategy with the evolving business landscape & building a solid team of leaders to execute its vision. In terms of his future aspirations, the ambitious leader wishes to increase the number of clients by 25% each year. Currently, the firm’s AUM amounts to 30,000 crores, and he aims to increase
it to one lakh crore in the next 5 years.

ENCOURAGES DEMOCRATIC DECISION MAKING

Feroze is a supporter of democratic decision-making. He believes that democracy engenders ownership in any situation. For that reason, he gives his team members more opportunities to participate in decision-making. Like a true leader, he believes in inspiring his team instead of instructing them. He holds that inspiring people is possible only if you lead from the front & set an example through your hard work. He explains, “It is the easiest to lead a team with words or instructions since you don’t have to do much, but effective leadership calls for leading by example, which I prefer.” Challenges, he says, are a test that provides an opportunity to thrive. According to him, adversity causes strong leaders to think effectively, ponder more, uncover facts, & communicate more precisely to unite people and resolve issues.

HIS INSPIRATION

Feroze attributes much of his success to his father, a successful industrialist who went through a debt trap and then started from zero. His father’s optimism and never say die attitude shaped him into the successful individual he is today. The second person who inspired him was Mr. Anand Rathi himself; who became an entrepreneur at the age of 45, motivates Feroze by assuring him that it’s never too late to achieve your goals.

POWERING SOCIAL PROGRESS

Feroze has always been a generous leader who places a high emphasis on Corporate Social Responsibility. “Our general objective has been to help raise funds for cancer patients. As part of this effort, we have partnered with an NGO called Cuddles Foundation,” he adds. “Children who have cancer are highly susceptible to malnutrition. To address this issue, we periodically raise money from wealthy clients so that we can provide aid to children who have cancer,” he explains.

BRAGGING RIGHTS

The young leader has earned bragging rights as one of the youngest & most successful Deputy CEOs in the Wealth Management industry.

Moreover, Feroze has also been named one of Fortune magazine’s 40 young and vibrant entrepreneurs under the age of 40. A bowling enthusiast, he also has the gift of the gab. Several business schools regularly host him as a lecturer in finance.

Vandana Luthra’s contributions to the industry and the reciprocal rewards are countless, as is conspicuous from the recognition and accolades that she has received – the Asian Business Leaders Forum Trailblazer Award, The Enterprise Asia Women Entrepreneur of the Year Award, featuring in the Forbes 50 Power Businesswomen in the APAC Region as also the Fortune magazine’s 50 Most Powerful Women in Business in India, among others.

However, those who know her from close proximity are aware that her amazing success is a result of vision, focus, commitment and sheer hard work. A Delhite by birth, she had inherent smartness and a zeal to do something extraordinary – perfect ingredients to be immensely successful.

Born to a mechanical engineer father and to a mother who was closely involved with a charitable yoga ashram with an Ayurveda doctor, she first decided to graduate from the Polytechnic for Women in New Delhi, and then to gain expertise in beauty, fitness, food and nutrition and skin care from Germany, UK and France. While most women feel that professional life after marriage or after the birth of a child is over, Vandana Luthra decided to begin her professional life after nine years of her marriage to Mukesh Luthra and after three years of her second daughter’s birth. Thus, was laid the foundation of VLCC in 1989 as a beauty and slimming services centre in Safdarjung Development Area, New Delhi.

Success Unbound

With a strong presence in 330 locations in over 150 cities across 14 countries in South Asia, South East Asia, the GCC Region and East Africa, under Vandana Luthra’s expert guidance, VLCC has been offering weight management and beauty programmes (skin, body and hair care treatments and advanced dermatology and cosmetology solutions). VLCC’s weight-management solutions include a unique DNA-based weight management system to customize weight loss programmes for an individual. VLCC has the largest scale and breadth of operations within the beauty and wellness services industry in India.

With an employee strength of over 4,500, including nutrition counsellors, medical professionals, physiotherapists, cosmetologists and beauty professionals, Vandana Luthra has created a giant in the Indian beauty & wellness industry by market share in the total organized
industry.

As Vandana Luthra wanted to create fresh avenues to her rapidly expanding business, VLCC expanded into other segments of the beauty & wellness domain. Today, VLCC also manufactures in three company-owned, GMP-certified manufacturing plants – two in India and one in Singapore – over 300 skin care, body care and hair care products as well as nutraceuticals and a range of functional and fortified foods which are retailed in over 150,000 stores in the countries across Asia and Africa.

In her endeavor to raise the bar of service delivery standards for the beauty and wellness services industry in India at large, Vandana Luthra set up the VLCC Institute for Beauty & Nutrition in 2001, to develop a pool of formally trained manpower for the industry. Today, with 80 campuses across 53 cities, the VLCC Institute trains over 20,000 students annually and in an integral part of the country’s Skill India Mission.

Recognizing and giving due regard to her expertise in her field of business, she has been appointed as the Chairperson of the industry-led and government-backed Beauty & Wellness Sector Skill Council t. She is also a member of both the Steering Committee and the Sub-Committee of the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana as well as General Body Member of the New Delhi-based Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga.

Infinite Belief in Herself

As Vandana Luthra shares herself, “When I started, there were hardly any women entrepreneurs. It was a male-dominated environment. I had to face a lot of skepticism about my ability to grow my business. The only thing I believed in was that my concept was unique, unusual and it was being introduced in India for the first time,” it was never easy to make this big.

As we all know now, the first step Vandana Luthra took was small, but today she is in a position to make confident strides in any direction and she is bound to succeed. She acknowledges that her husband has been very supportive throughout and had even offered to fund her dream, which she declined as she wanted to do it herself. “I booked the place and took a small loan and got started,” she says.

Her success came big and hard as her concept proved to be unique, and people and clients readily accepted it. It was embraced by the celebrities in an equally heartily manner. With every success, her self-belief increased and as she broke even in the very first month, she put in harder work and in the next few months she started getting return on investment too.

“My approach was scientific and I started working with doctors from day one. This worked in our favour too,” she explains. The other thing she feels worked in her favour was the branding of VLCC. “From day one I was clear that the brand would not be a glamorous one. The centre was a therapeutic facility and was projected in that very manner,” she adds. The brand still maintains the ethos it started with.

Inspired by and learning from her mother, Vandana Luthra set out to impact others’ lives by making things better for them through her holistic approach. Having learnt from her families before and after marriage, she gives a personal touch to everything she does right from remembering the name of every employee to walking in unannounced at VLCC centers across India to having candid chats with her employees to interacting with her clients to get direct and transparent feedback.

Keeping up with technology and the latest research, Vandana Luthra has established her own R&D centers, likes to travel extensively to all parts of the world to seminars and conferences, and always offers her clients the latest in health and beauty technology.

Back to the Society

Vandana Luthra is active in her contribution to the society, and in addition to helping the underprivileged & the physically challenged by providing them scholarships for free education, she has been working on projects like telemedicine centres, a remedial school with midday meal facility catering to 3,000 children, and a vocational training facility through the NGO, Khushii. She is also the patron of the Amar Jyoti Charitable Trust, which has over 800 children in its 2 schools, and which pioneered the concept of educating children with and without disability in equal number from nursery to class VIII.

OPENING DOORS TO EXTRAORDINARY HOMES

MR. N. NAGABUSHANA REDDY, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF NBR GROUP, IS A REMARKABLE LEADER WHO HAS ELEVATED THE COMPANY TO A PROMINENT REAL ESTATE FIRM. HIS FORWARD-THINKING LEADERSHIP, DEDICATION TO CREATIVITY, AND STRONG EMPHASIS ON SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY DEMONSTRATE THE STRENGTH OF INSPIRING LEADERSHIP

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS

Mr. N. Nagabushana Reddy is a prominent real estate developer in Bengaluru. After finishing his education, he entered the real estate industry and established NBR Group in 1998. The primary goal was to provide affordable housing options with top-notch amenities and a gated community living experience in eco-friendly spaces that would contribute to Bengaluru’s green cover.

Since the inception of the first project, Mr. Nagabushana has been realizing these goals. Over the past two decades, he has become known for his innovative approaches, customer-oriented mindset, and developing sustainable communities, positioning the company as a trailblazer. He builds strong connections with stakeholders and consistently prioritizes the quality and satisfaction of customers.

Mr. Nagabushana knows that the real estate sector is highly competitive, and hence, he eagerly embraces its numerous challenges to succeed. He ensures that all projects surpass market expectations, not just meet them. Under his mentorship, the company’s flagship project, “NBR Hillsview,” represented a significant milestone in the prosperity of the business.

EMPOWERING THE TEAM MEMBERS

Mr. Nagabushana consistently strives to uplift and encourage his team members by assisting them in formulating a clear vision for the future. He emphasizes the importance of a hands-on approach and actively participates in all aspects of the business, constantly supporting his team members. He promotes an open work environment where people are free to communicate, collaborate to generate new ideas, and take ownership of their work, paving the way for a motivated and collaborative team.

ADHERING TO GOOD GOVERNANCE PRACTICES

Mr. Nagabushana believes that the success of his company is reliant on its principles and policies. The visionary leader strongly promotes good governance to ensure that NBR Group always operates with integrity, transparency, and accountability. By implementing regular audits, upholding ethical business practices, and maintaining strict compliance with regulatory standards, he has been instrumental in driving the company’s sustained success and fostering strong trust among stakeholders.

AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

Mr. Nagabushana has worked hard to build a business acknowledged as a real estate industry pioneer. Under his leadership, the company has won prestigious honors such as the “Trusted and Innovative Developer of the Year” by ET Achievers 2024 (Times of India), the “Residential Plot Development of the Year” Award in 2012 for the NBR Meadows project, and the “Residential Plot Development of the Year” Award in 2013 for the NBR Green Valley project.

UNLOCKING OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE FUTURE

With an aspirational and progressive outlook for the company’s future, Mr. Nagabushana emphasizes sustainability, creativity, and client happiness. He plans to build new high-rise luxury apartments and environmentally friendly residential areas in the near future. In addition, he intends to discover fresh markets nationally and globally and keep investing in modern technologies that will improve the quality of life for NBR Group’s clients. Over the next few years, Mr. Nagabushana sees the company rising to the top of the luxury real estate world and becoming renowned for its innovation.

HAPPY HOMES GUARANTEED

Mr. Ameya inderkumar Jain, the Managing Director of Kumar Lifespaces Pune, is a highly successful and innovative entrepreneur in the real estate industry. A distinguished leader, he is known for transforming living spaces through his expertise in construction and architecture

TAKING THE LEGACY FORWARD

Born into a family with a 58-year background in real estate, Mr. Ameya Jain picked up designing sophisticated and sustainable buildings after observing his father and grandfather work tirelessly to propel their company to the top of the real estate sector. He graduated with a degree in civil engineering from Bharati Vidyapeeth’s College of Engineering in Pune. Driven by a deep passion for creating extraordinary structures, he entered the industry and is now offering his clients top-notch real estate options with advanced infrastructure and technology. As the Managing Director of Kumar Lifespaces, Mr. Jain has been designing homes that families cherish for years. With more than 135 projects delivered and a diverse community of over 35,000 satisfied residents, Mr. Jain takes pride in leading the company trusted by many for its premium living spaces, eco-friendly designs, and top-notch amenities for comfort and convenience.

RAISING THE BAR HIGH

Mr. Jain is well-known for putting quality over money in his work, which has helped his business earn a solid reputation for building outstanding homes. His commitment to excellence is evident in the completion of several remarkable projects that have set a high standard in the housing industry. The construction considers environmental factors and uses sustainable materials to reduce the use of cement. Kumar Lifespaces has established itself as a trusted name in Pune’s real estate industry, consistently delivering projects like Kumar Princeville, Kumar Pratham, Kumar Siddhachal, Kumar Palmsprings, Kumar Prospera, Kumar Sienna, and Kumar Pacific Mall, among others, that foster community, well-being, and an enriched lifestyle.

CARING FOR THE COMMUNITY

Mr. Jain prioritises corporate social responsibility and is actively involved in projects that help improve communities and promote positive social change. He ardently advocates equal access to high-quality healthcare as a fundamental right rather than an exclusive privilege. He has collaborated with Pune’s H.V. Desai Eye Hospital to facilitate high-quality eye care and cost-effective cataract surgeries for the less fortunate. Mr. Jain and his team also provide underprivileged people with excellent dialysis facilities as well as free or substantially affordable healthcare services through the family-run Kesarimal Himmatlal Charitable Trust. Additionally, Mr. Jain’s team identifies extraordinarily talented students from low-income families and helps them pursue their academic goals in engineering, medicine, and other fields, depending on their capabilities.

MESSAGE FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS

Mr. Ameya Jain views real estate as far more than mere structures; he sees it as an opportunity to create vibrant communities and nurturing spaces that enhance individual well-being. To him, success in this industry is not solely defined by profits but by the ability to deliver lasting value and meaningful experiences to customers. For aspiring entrepreneurs, Mr. Jain’s advice is clear: cultivate a genuine passion for your work, grounded in honesty, excellence, and a steadfast commitment to customer satisfaction. Building a strong foundation based on trust, quality, and integrity is essential. He emphasizes that real estate is not just about construction; it’s about shaping communities and crafting living environments that bring joy and fulfillment to people’s lives. Ultimately, success in real estate lies in creating enduring value and fostering positive, impactful experiences for clients.

UPPING THE GAME IN THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR

MR. KAUSTUBH VASANT PHADTARE, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF KAVITSU ROBOTRONIX PRIVATE LIMITED, IS AN INNOVATOR IN THE CONSTANTLY EVOLVING FIELD OF ENGINEERING MANUFACTURING IN INDIA. HE IS HEADING THE COMPANY WITH STAUNCH DETERMINATION AND FORWARD-THINKING LEADERSHIP AND ESTABLISHING NEW BENCHMARKS FOR EXCELLENCE

CREDENTIALS THAT SPEAK VOLUMES

Mr. Kaustubh Vasant Phadtare completed his B.E. in Instrumentation from Vishwakarma Institute of Technology, Pune, and a master’s degree in Mechatronics from the Newcastle University, United Kingdom. Following his education, he entered his family business, Kavitsu Group, established in 1992 by his father. Demonstrating a strong dedication to domestic innovation and a clear vision for international competitiveness, Mr. Phadtare has successfully guided the company towards remarkable achievements. After his successful stint at the Kavitsu Group, Mr. Phadtare decided to explore new opportunities in engineering manufacturing. He entered the market of slew ring bearings through Kavitsu Robotronix Private Limited, a part of the Kavitsu Group. By utilising advanced machinery and delivering quality, Mr. Phadtare became a prominent manufacturer and exporter of slew bearings, expanding his national and international presence.

VISION FOR GLOBAL EXPANSION

Mr. Phadtare envisions a future where his company, Kavitsu Robotronix Private Limited, expands its reach into global markets, including the USA and Europe. As part of this, he plans to establish a dedicated forging plant, ensuring thorough inspection of raw materials and maintaining the highest standards of quality. These measures will enable the company to deliver superior products, further solidifying its reputation for excellence and innovation. Central to this vision is Mr. Phadtare’s emphasis on indigenous innovation, which lies at the core of his leadership style. While many companies depend on technology from multinational corporations, Mr. Phadtare’s approach is distinctly different. His company sets itself apart by developing in-house products, reinforcing its self-reliant ethos, and earning global recognition for its unique and innovative solutions.

SUPPORTING AN EXPERT TEAM

Mr. Phadtare has assembled a committed group of engineers and technicians who diligently research new technologies, improve the quality of existing products, and create inventive solutions to address the changing market demands. The team puts in significant effort to produce goods recognized for their robustness, accuracy, and effectiveness, positioning them as the preferred choice for clients in search of top-notch engineering solutions. Maintaining exceptional quality standards in all areas of the company’s functions has solidified the company’s reputation as a reliable partner for business in the sector. Mr. Phadtare advises aspiring entrepreneurs to prioritize quality and timely service delivery. He believes that failures are stepping stones to success and encourages all to not give up when faced with setbacks. He suggests that they continue to give their best efforts, assuring them that their hard work will pay off.

AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

For his exceptional contributions to manufacturing, robotics, and automation, Mr. Phadtare has received several awards, including the Business Excellence Award in 2019 from the Global Indian Business Forum, Pune, and the Most Influential Leaders Award in 2022 from The Economic Times. He was honoured as one of the Young Achievers—Beacons of Business in 2020. Additionally, he received a certificate of recognition and achievement for trusted slew ring-bearing manufacturers from Outlook Business. He was also awarded a Certificate of Appreciation for his outstanding contributions to the bearing manufacturing industry and for being named one of the Times Most Powerful Leaders for 2022–23. In May 2024, he was included in Forbes India’s Digital Edition list of The World’s Billionaires. Furthermore, in 2022, he was felicitated by MAS Satara on MAS Vardhapan Din.

Breaking New Ground

Aditya Vikram Birla, Chairman and Managing Director at Cosmic Birla Group, is a name to be reckoned with in the industrial sector. Under his visionary stewardship, Cosmic Birla Group, a leader in engineering and manufacturing, has evolved into a diversified entity

“He champions open communication, collaboration, and transparency at work”

Aditya’s vision and business acumen are deeply rooted in his education, which began at Don Bosco School in Kolkata, India. Additionally, the leader boasts an impressive academic background with an MBA from Cardiff University in Wales and a BBA from Jadavpur University in West Bengal. He has been Director at Cosmic EV since September 2023, leading innovation in the electric vehicle sector. As Managing Director at Cosmic CRF Limited since April 2022, his leadership has been marked by significant growth and transformation. He has also served as Executive Director at Asansol Steel Castings Pvt. Ltd. and Prilika Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. since 2020 and 2019, respectively. He is the Director at Comet Technocom Pvt. Ltd. since January 2019.

Harnessing Diversification

Under Aditya’s leadership, Cosmic Birla Group has transformed into a diversified entity encompassing several industry-leading subsidiaries. For instance, Cosmic CRF leads in innovative solutions across sectors, enhancing industry progress and efficiency. Comet Technocom excels in precision engineering, producing specialized components, while Comet Tradecom delivers high-quality consumer goods worldwide. Additionally, AVB Entech connects global markets and drives sustainable mobility with its investments in EV research. Asansol Steel supplies railway components, while Prilika Enterprises specializes in wagon construction essentials. Other notable subsidiaries include Cosmic Springs and Engineers Ltd, Cosmic Rail Solutions Ltd, and Raft Cosmic EV.

Customer-Centric Leadership in Action

Aditya credits the group’s success to strong customer relationships built over the years. He focuses on delivering quality, innovation, and excellence to enhance customer satisfaction, which is reflected in the group’s investments in advanced technology. He also values his dedicated team’s commitment, fostering a work environment of open communication and collaboration, empowering them to consistently deliver high-quality results.

Commitment to Sustainability

Aditya’s commitment to sustainable practices is exemplified by the recent acquisition of RAFT Motors, an innovative electric vehicle manufacturer. With Cosmic EV leading the charge, the group is poised to revolutionize the transportation sector and contribute to a greener and cleaner future. This strategic move has positioned Cosmic Birla Group as a leader in the growing electric vehicle industry.

Garnering Accolades

Aditya’s commitment to innovation recently earned him the prestigious Tally MSME Honours 2024 Award in the Business Maestro category by the Hindustan Times. He was also invited to speak at the 2024 India Conference at Harvard Business School on the topic “Transforming a Legacy Business into an Innovative Powerhouse,” sharing the stage with prominent world leaders. He and the Cosmic Birla Group were recognized as “Emerging Leaders in Industrial Excellence” at the Times Now Business Excellence Awards, East 2024. Additionally, Cosmic CRF Ltd received the honor for “Excellence in Industrial Innovation” at the Times Business Awards, East 2024. He was also featured in Entrepreneurs Today’s prestigious “40 under 40” list of business individuals across India for the year 2024.

DARING TO BE DIFFERENT

Gavi Kumar is a multifaceted personality who finds bliss in winning relationships, working with passionate individuals, and nurturing new partnerships. He is currently managing Client Solutions at Kyndryl and also serves as a Board of Director at International Organization for Educational Development

“HE ACTIVELY WORKS WITH NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS TO EMPOWER VETERANS AND PROMOTE EDUCATION FOR YOUTH”

Gavi has more than 18 years of experience in developing strategic relationships with key business and technology barons to bring success in the assignments he spearheads. Popular as a business relations expert, Gavi is a staunch believer in continual learning. A former Navy personnel, he switched to the corporate world by virtue of his open-mindedness for lifelong learning and adaptability. His belief in “never say never,” backed by unending support from family members and friends, motivated him to make a life-altering switch and attract success. As the Sales Director at Infosys, USA, Gavi’s contribution has been tremendous. A sales cognoscente, he has been associated with reputed firms like IBM and Ericsson, after serving as Deputy Director for seven years in the Indian Navy.

TAKING ADVANTAGE OF EVERY OPPORTUNITY

An IIM alumnus, Gavi holds a certification in Disruptive Strategy from the Harvard Business School and Managing Companies of the Future from the University of London. He has a double bachelor’s in mechanical and marine engineering. Besides, he is a certified Agile Scrum Master, Agile Product Owner, and ITIL. All in all, Gavi is an all-rounder with high-demand skills in multiple domains, namely Strategizing, IT, Sales, Program Management, Business Development, and Agile Methodology.

Gavi knew from the beginning that one day he would take on the responsibility of inaugurating something he could call his own. Currently, that something is at a nascent stage, and soon, he will announce the launch of his first business venture. Like every successful man, Gavi also encountered challenges that almost prevented him from becoming the person he is today. However, his passion, persistence, commitment, and dedication kept him going.

The uniqueness of Gavi’s leadership style is rooted in learning to trust oneself. He believes in staying true to oneself and showing compassion towards others. Gavi is proud of his team for supporting him through thick and thin. Despite being unable to get through a couple of defense services selections, he was determined to prove his persistence, positivity, and merit. No failure could make him look back, and eventually, he earned a seat in prestigious programs, including the First Indian Indigenous Aircraft Carrier.

INSPIRING OTHERS TO SUCCEED WITH COMPASSION

Gavi’s team witnessed his compassionate nature during the Tsunami Operations in 2004. Led by Gavi, his team provided relief materials to thousands of people. The Sri Lankan government recognized their efforts in serving the people. Gavi is involved in many activities that keep him on the move. He is a board member of the International Organisation of Educational Development, which aims to make Indian states more environment-friendly, skilled, empowered, and crime-free.

He is also a board member of Support Our Heroes, an organization dedicated to the well-being of India’s veterans and their families. Gavi volunteers at Hire Heroes, a firm that empowers U.S. military officials and their families transitioning into the corporate world. Additionally, Gavi is a member of the University of Houston’s advisory board. His passion for helping the community has continued even as he shifted to the corporate world. He actively collaborates with nonprofit organizations to empower veterans and promote education for youth in India and the United States.

Dr. Shruti Sharma, CEO of Brindavan Group of Institutions, is transforming the academic experience by demonstrating that learning goes beyond just books and exams. Through a series of dynamic events, she is fostering holistic development in students, integrating fun with purpose. From inaugurating a new cricket ground to celebrating Dussehra and honouring Kargil heroes, Dr. Sharma encourages students to embrace every opportunity for growth and personal enrichment through meaningful extracurricular activities.

The recently celebrated Dussehra event at the campus was a resounding success.  Under Dr. Sharma’s insightful leadership, the festival took on a shade of deeper meaning: good always conquers evil. Students from all walks of life were thrilled to be a part of it while going through the traditions and fun-filled performances, food, and festivities. Thanks to Dr. Sharma’s approachable nature, the event felt more like a warm family gathering, fostering a strong sense of belonging and the feeling of being part of something much greater.

Dr. Sharma’s visit to Kargil revealed a deeper facet of her leadership. At the Kargil War Memorial and Army Goodwill School, she paid heartfelt tribute to India’s heroes. Upon her return to the university, her reflections on the experience transformed patriotism from a mere word into a powerful, shared emotion among students.As Dr. Sharma vividly recounted the bravery of the soldiers, students sat up straighter, filled with pride and inspiration, eager to make their own contributions to society. It wasn’t just a trip; it was a lesson in resilience and gratitude that left a lasting impact.

The grand opening of Brindavan College’s football turf saw Dr. Sharma reveal her sporty side, joined by Indian cricketer Shashank Singh. Together, they launched the event in style, with Singh encouraging students to take to the pitch with fresh enthusiasm and energy. The excitement spread, as Dr. Sharma highlighted the importance of sports for teamwork, discipline, and leadership. The shiny new ground now bustles with activity, where one can have a break, make friends, and channel their inner cricketers.

With Dr. Sharma at the helm, Brindavan College is anything but ordinary. She fosters an environment where students are free to explore their passions, push their limits, and enjoy every moment of the experience. Her leadership combines tradition with modernity, ensuring students graduate not only as scholars but as complete individuals ready to face the world. So if you are in Brindavan, be ready to learn, laugh, and grow—Dr. Sharma is here to make sure of it.