On July 17th, the Gokulam Park Convention Centre in Kochi witnessed a pioneering convergence of minds at the Manappuram Unique Times Business Summit 2025, organized by Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd, led by visionary founder Dr Ajit Ravi. Themed “Revolutionizing Travel Through Technology: The Role of AI and Virtual Reality,” the summit spotlighted the transformative role of emerging technologies in reshaping mobility.
Moderated by Dr. K. A. Kuriachan, Former District Governor of Rotary International District 3200, the panel included Prasanna Patwardhan, V.C. Praveen, Kanwarjit Singh Sawhney, Babu Panicker, Manu G, Loknath Behera, Dr Jolly Antony—each a key player in India’s transport evolution. The Business Summit was organized as a joint initiative by Manappuram Finance Ltd, Unique Times, and the Bus & Car Operators Confederation of India (BOCI).
Their dialogue delved into predictive analytics, AI-enhanced operations, and virtual experiences redefining travel behavior. The summit stood as a benchmark in integrating international perspectives with India’s rapidly advancing tech-driven transit goals.
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In a remarkable celebration of innovation and service in India’s travel sector, the Unique Times Mobility Innovator Awards took place on July 17 at Gokulam Park Convention Centre, recognizing key players shaping the nation’s mobility future. A joint initiative of Manappuram Finance Ltd., Unique Times, and the Bus & Car Operators Confederation of India (BOCI), the awards honored five outstanding contributors.
Kallada Tours & Travels, under the leadership of Suresh Kallada, received the Innovator in Mobility Infrastructure Award. The Heritage Excellence in Tourism Award was awarded to Panicker’s Travels India Pvt. Ltd., represented by Babu Panicker. Neo Classic Cruise and Tours Pvt. Ltd., led by Nishyjith K John, was honored with the Innovative Travel Experience Award. Ramesh Tours & Travels Pvt. Ltd., headed by Ramesh Babu Gopal, received the Leader in Personal Mobility Services Award, while Padikkal Travels Pvt. Ltd. and Manoj Padikkal were celebrated for Excellence in School Transportation Services.
The honors were presented by Shri Gokulam Gopalan (Sree Gokulam Group of Companies) during the formal ceremony, with Dr. Ajit Ravi, Founder & Chairman of Pegasus, also in attendance. The event reaffirmed the sector’s crucial role in building a more connected and sustainable India.
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Starting with just three vehicles and no prior industry experience, Manoj Padikkal transformed Padikkal Travels into a trusted name in school transport and tourism through relentless determination, consistency, and a focus on quality. He shares how one opportunity grew into a long-term vision driven by innovation, discipline, and people-centric values. From integrating AI for enhanced safety to building strong industry relationships, his journey is a blend of tradition and technology. More than just managing vehicles and routes, his story is about building trust, upholding responsibility, and making a meaningful difference through dependable service.
In the early days of Padikkal Travels, what was the biggest learning curve you encountered as a newcomer to the industry?
When I launched Padikkal Travels in 2003, I had no background in the transport sector. What truly set things in motion was the support of a trusted contact who believed in my potential and gave me a chance to manage transport services. Sensing the opportunity, I decided to take the plunge with just three vehicles. From that point on, it’s been a continuous learning curve. The most unexpected challenge was stepping into an industry I knew little about—but I was driven to make the most of the opportunity and grow from every experience.
Was there a specific reason or experience that made you focus on the transport sector?
The journey into the transport sector wasn’t something I had planned. It began with a single opportunity. Someone saw a potential in me and offered me my very first contract. I didn’t have experience, but I had determination. After successfully handling that, nearby schools began reaching out, asking if I could take on their transport services, too. That’s when it clicked. I saw a real opportunity to build something meaningful. What started by chance turned into a calling. I realised that with hard work, trust, and consistency, I could create a service that made a difference in people’s daily lives.
Alongside school transport, you’ve built a strong presence in travel and tourism. How different is it in terms of challenges and customer expectations?
Travel and tourism come with their own set of challenges. But compared to school transport, it’s definitely more flexible. School transport demands constant vigilance; you’re responsible for the safety of young children every single day. There’s no room for error. Even a single day off isn’t an option, and if a bus breaks down, it has to be resolved immediately. The expectations are much higher because parents are trusting you with what matters most to them. In tourism, while safety is still a priority, the urgency and emotional responsibility aren’t as intense. Managing school transport teaches you discipline, precision, and accountability, and those values carry over to every other part of the business.
In a service-oriented industry like transportation, what strategies have helped you consistently meet client expectations and resolve issues efficiently?
It begins with building the right team. A strong HR foundation allows us to recruit individuals who not only have the necessary skills but also share our core values—safety, punctuality, and professionalism. We also maintain strict control over vehicle upkeep; all our buses are serviced regularly at our in-house garage to ensure they’re always in top condition. Just as crucial is communication—we prioritize client feedback, conduct regular site visits, and keep open lines of communication at all times. When problems do arise, we address them swiftly and personally. In this line of work, trust is everything, and how you respond makes all the difference.
Over the years, what guiding principle has shaped the way you lead and grow your business?
One principle I’ve always followed is to never compromise on quality and to remain accessible to clients at all times. In a people-centric business like ours, consistency and reliability are what earn long-term trust. Many of our clients have been with us for more than a decade, and that loyalty comes from strong relationships, not just service contracts. Being available, responsive, and committed to high standards every single day has been the key to building and maintaining enduring partnerships.
Your business spans several states and serves many institutions. How do you ensure consistency in service across different locations?
Consistency starts with building a strong foundation, clear systems, well-trained staff, and a shared commitment to quality. Across all our locations, we follow the same standard operating procedures and maintain strict checklists for vehicle maintenance, safety protocols, and daily operations. Our teams are regularly trained and monitored to ensure they uphold the same standards, no matter where they are. We also conduct site visits, gather regular feedback from clients, and stay in constant touch with our teams on the ground. It’s this hands-on approach and attention to detail that help us deliver a seamless experience across the board.
Have there been any moments of feedback from a parent, student, or school that deeply impacted how you see your work?
Definitely. Some of the most impactful lessons came from the early stages of the business, when we received critical feedback. Rather than seeing it as a setback, we took it as an opportunity to improve. That input helped us refine our systems and raise our standards. One piece of advice that stayed with me was to never become complacent—always keep evaluating and evolving. A moment I often recall is when a school principal said, “I never have to worry about transport anymore.” It wasn’t a grand statement, but it spoke volumes about the trust we had built. Feedback like that reminds us of the responsibility we carry and the value of consistency.
Running a demanding business often comes with personal sacrifices. How has your family supported you through the challenges of this journey?
In this line of work, challenges are constant—be it sudden breakdowns, staff shortages, or regulatory changes. During those unpredictable moments, my family’s support has been my foundation. They’ve encouraged me to stay the course during tough phases and have shown patience through long hours and high-pressure situations. More than just emotional support, they’ve given me clarity. When you’re making decisions that impact so many people daily, having a steady, grounding presence matters immensely. Their belief in me and the purpose behind what I do has helped me stay focused, resilient, and committed.
You hold key positions in transport associations like the Kerala Interstate Bus Operators Association and the Bus Operators Confederation of India. How has this exposure shaped your perspective on industry-wide challenges, and do you use those insights to influence your own business decisions?
Being in leadership roles within these associations has given me a much broader view of the transport industry. It’s made me aware of how different the rules, regulations, and taxation systems are across states, what works in one state can be completely different in another. I’ve also seen firsthand some of the key challenges we all face, like driver shortages, regulatory hurdles, and the slow pace of technological adoption in the sector.
At the same time, these roles have helped me build strong networks and stay ahead of industry changes. The insights I gain from discussions with operators across the country often inform how I run my own business. Whether it’s preparing for policy shifts, adopting new technologies, or simply learning from the experiences of others. It keeps me grounded but also forward-looking.
How are emerging technologies like AI shaping the way you manage your transport operations today?
AI is already making a meaningful impact on how we operate at Padikkal Travels. We’ve adopted several smart technologies—AI-based systems help us detect and prevent drunken driving, monitor driver fatigue, and instantly alert us if a driver appears drowsy. GPS integration allows us to optimise routes for better punctuality, while in-bus cameras offer live monitoring to ensure both driver accountability and passenger safety. We also use fuel theft alert systems to curb misuse and enhance operational efficiency. These tools have raised our safety standards, improved reliability, and deepened client trust. In today’s landscape, embracing such innovations isn’t a choice—it’s essential for sustainable growth.
Based on global best practices, what changes would you like to see in India’s school transport system?
I’ve always admired the structured approach seen in countries like Germany and the Netherlands, where school transport is handled with exceptional discipline and care. One standout practice I’d love to see adopted in India is the strict enforcement of road rules around school buses—particularly the rule that prohibits overtaking a bus when children are boarding or disembarking. These countries also have clearly designated zones for pick-up and drop-off, with traffic systems that prioritize student safety. While India has made notable progress, we still lack this level of infrastructure and driver discipline. Adopting such global standards could greatly enhance safety and bring much-needed structure to our school transport system.
Manoj Padikkal with his Family – (From Left) Megha Manoj (Daughter), Madhav Padikkal (Son), Reshmi Manoj (Wife), and Manoj Padikkal (Seated)
Can you share how your family contributes to the business and the role they play in its growth?
My family has been the backbone of this entire journey. My wife, Reshmi Manoj, who holds a postgraduate degree, is a Director at Padikkal Travels and plays a vital role in managing day-to-day operations and ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Our daughter, Megha, is also a Director in the company. She has a BA in Economics (Honours) from Christ College, Bengaluru, and recently completed her MA in Public Policy from O.P. Jindal Global University, Delhi. Her academic background adds a unique policy-oriented perspective to the business.
Our son, Madhav, is currently in the 12th grade in Bengaluru, studying arts and humanities. He has already shown great interest in joining the business in the future. As a family, we’ve worked together to build Padikkal Travels into one of the most trusted names in school transport across South India. It’s been a collective journey rooted in shared vision, dedication, and mutual support.
What core mindset do you believe every aspiring entrepreneur should develop?
The most important shift in mindset is understanding that success doesn’t happen overnight. It demands relentless hard work, discipline, and consistency—every single day. Challenges are inevitable, but how you respond to them defines your path.
Even after all these years, there are nights I’m working till 2 a.m., only to wake up again at 4 a.m. to make sure everything is in place. That kind of dedication isn’t optional—it’s what the business requires. Dreaming big is important, but dreams only come true when you back them with unwavering effort and a never-give-up attitude.
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Indian logistics magnate Dr Vijay Sankeshwar, Chairman and Managing Director of VRL Group, has been named the recipient of the 19th MBA (Multibillionaire Business Achiever) Award, a prestigious honour celebrating extraordinary business impact and social commitment. The award, conceptualized by Dr. Ajit Ravi, is presented by Unique Times in partnership with Manappuram Finance Ltd. The grand recognition ceremony will take place on July 17th at the Sree Gokulam Park Convention Centre, Kochi.
A pioneering figure in India’s transport sector, Dr Vijay Sankeshwar becomes the first-ever recipient from Karnataka, marking a milestone in the award’s pan-India expansion. His leadership has transformed VRL Group into one of India’s most prominent logistics and fleet enterprises.
The award also grants him induction into the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF)—a global forum for high-impact business leaders, envisioned by Dr Ajit Ravi and reserved exclusively for MBA Awardees.
The MBA Award continues to highlight Indian entrepreneurship on a global platform, emphasizing values of responsibility, ethics, and nation-building.
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From the quiet lanes of Thrissur to the corridors of global recognition, K. Paul Thomas has walked a path few dare to tread—blending finance with faith, business with benevolence, and vision with values. This is the inspiring story of the man behind ESAF, who ignited India’s banking revolution rooted in compassion.
From a Dream to a Nationwide Mission
In 1992, amidst a transformative period in India marked by sweeping economic reforms and the dawn of globalisation, ESAF was launched as a non-governmental organisation (NGO). Just a few years later, in 1995—when the concept of “microfinance” was still largely unfamiliar—a visionary young man from Kerala, K. Paul Thomas, dared to dream differently about finance. This led to the birth of the Micro Enterprises Development (MED) Division under ESAF.
While many were fixated on building profit-driven empires, K. Paul Thomas chose a path less traveled—one centered on empowering people. His focus was on the often-overlooked segment of India’s population: women living in some of the most underdeveloped and remote parts of the country, long excluded from formal financial systems.
At the heart of ESAF’s humble beginnings was a powerful vision: to uplift communities not through handouts or charity, but by enabling dignified access to financial services. “The poor don’t need handouts. They need an opportunity to prove themselves,” he asserted.
Today, after more than three decades, ESAF has transformed from a grassroots initiative into a fully licensed Small Finance Bank. With a presence in over 780 locations across 24 states and 2 union territories, it proudly serves more than 9.4 million customers. Yet, despite its exponential growth, ESAF has never strayed from its founding spirit. It continues to operate not merely as a bank, but as a mission-driven movement grounded in social purpose.
A Pioneer Ahead of His Time
Long before the Kudumbashree movement made waves in Kerala, Paul Thomas had already introduced the idea of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and joint liability models as powerful tools for transformation. Inspired by Nobel Laureate Prof. Muhammad Yunus and the Grameen Bank model in Bangladesh, he adapted it for Indian realities.
His earliest steps involved going door-to-door in remote villages, forming neighbourhood women’s groups, encouraging savings habits, and offering microloans for home-based businesses. It was hard work, but it worked.
ESAF became one of the earliest proponents of microfinance in India, and Paul Thomas, its unassuming evangelist.
K. Paul Thomas (Managing Director & CEO, ESAF Small Finance Bank)
A Bank Where Lives Matter
When ESAF Small Finance Bank received its banking licence in 2017, it made history as the first bank from Kerala to be licensed after independence. That moment was a culmination of years of persistent work under the sun and the shade—building trust, reaching the unreached, and nurturing a network of believers in inclusive growth.
Today, ESAF Bank stands tall not just in numbers, but in values. Unlike traditional banks, its focus has always been clear: financial inclusion, livelihood support, and community transformation.
Under Paul Thomas’s guidance, the organisation expanded its offerings beyond microloans. It set up leadership training programmes for women empowerment, training programmes for rural entrepreneurship, created market linkages for artisan products, and facilitated access to government schemes. This integrated model became a lifeline for thousands trying to escape the cycle of poverty, and it also helped sustain the ecosystem he created.
His leadership drew investors with a conscience—organisations like Opportunity International (Australia) and Oikocredit of the Netherlands—who backed his dream with dollars.
A Banker Who Serves
Ask anyone who knows him and they’ll vouch that Paul Thomas isn’t just a banker. He’s a servant leader. The term isn’t just a buzzword for him; it defines his ethos. His approach to governance is bottom-up, empowering those at the grassroots to shape their own destinies and escape the iron grip of poverty.
His belief? Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge. He lives this every day, not only in the policies ESAF adopts, but also in how he leads his teams with empathy, trust, and an unwavering sense of purpose.
Over the years, many prestigious laurels have come his way as signs of recognition for his visionary leadership and social impact. These include the Atal Pension Yojana Big Believers Award 3.0 for the Best Performing MD and CEO, the Circle of Excellence Exemplary Award of Par Excellence instituted by the PFRDA, and the Entrepreneur of the Year Award by TiE Kerala. He was conferred with the TMA Management Excellence Award and the Chamber of Commerce Award. He also received the Icon of Sustainability Award.
Furthermore, he was feted with the FE Pillar of the BFSI Industry Award at the Financial Express Modern BFSI Summit—an acknowledgement of his enduring influence in reshaping banking with purpose and integrity.
Paul Thomas was also recognised as the CEO with HR Orientation at the World HRD Congress in 2022.
Rooted in Values, Recognised Worldwide
As ESAF steadily expanded its presence across India, it remained firmly anchored to its founding principle—that banking should be just, fair, and inclusive. This unwavering belief found resonance far beyond national borders. Under the leadership of K. Paul Thomas, ESAF became the first Indian bank to join the Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV), a global network of institutions dedicated to ethical and sustainable banking practices.
But ESAF’s global alignment didn’t stop there. It also joined the World Fair Trade Organisation, strengthening its pledge to uphold social justice on an international scale.
Such dedication to purpose did not go unnoticed. ESAF Small Finance Bank was named a finalist at the prestigious European Microfinance Award not once, but twice—first in 2014 as a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC), and again in 2018 as a full-fledged bank.
These recognitions weren’t just about innovation; they were acknowledgments of real, measurable impact.
K. Paul Thomas (Managing Director & CEO, ESAF Small Finance Bank)
Organising the Unorganised
One of Paul Thomas’s most notable contributions has been his relentless focus on the unorganised sector. In a country where informal workers form the majority, yet remain invisible to formal institutions, he saw a gap—and an opportunity. Through ESAF, he brought these communities into the fold—not just as borrowers, but as stakeholders in development.
Skill training programmes were rolled out, and artisans were given branding and marketing support. His initiatives also lent a helping hand to farmers in accessing fair trade markets. And above all, individuals were given the dignity of being seen, heard, and supported. This holistic approach created not just financial inclusion but also social empowerment. He deserves applause for being a bridge builder between the unorganised sector and the formal economy, thereby empowering countless individuals and communities.
Wearing Many Hats With Elan
While ESAF is his flagship legacy, K. Paul Thomas wears many hats with panache. He formerly served as the President of the Thrissur Management Association, and the Chairman of CII Kerala Chapter. Currently, he is the Chairman of Sa-Dhan, a Self-Regulatory Organisation for community development finance institutions.
In each role, he continues to champion the cause of inclusive development—ensuring that financial systems evolve not just for profit, but for people and the planet. Although his academic background gave him the technical grounding, it was his values and vision that truly shaped his legacy.
Awards Are Great, Impact Is Better
Under Paul Thomas’s leadership, ESAF Small Finance Bank has not just grown—it has thrived on values. In 2018, the bank attained Scheduled Commerce Bank status. The institution has garnered numerous accolades that highlight its trailblazing efforts in the financial sector. Among its most notable recognitions is the prestigious title of “Rising Brand of Asia 2021–2022” by BARC Asia, which acknowledged ESAF’s exceptional growth and visibility in the Asian market. The Leadership Capital and Makers of Excellence Award, instituted by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), further validated the bank’s commitment to ethical governance and impactful leadership. Additionally, ESAF received an Honourable Mention at the Global SME Finance Awards 2021, organised by the International Finance Corporation, placing it among the most innovative and effective institutions supporting small and medium enterprises worldwide. Later in 2023, he steered ESAF Small Finance Bank to successfully launch its IPO, which was oversubscribed 77 times.
Yet, for Paul Thomas, such recognitions, while meaningful, are not the ultimate goal. He views them as encouraging affirmations rather than endpoints. His deepest sense of fulfilment stems not from trophies or titles, but from the real and lasting changes in the lives of those ESAF serves. For him, success lies in human stories—of resilience, dignity, and empowerment. He believes the true measure of success is transformation—not balance sheets.
K. Paul Thomas (Managing Director & CEO, ESAF Small Finance Bank)
A Story Still Being Written
At 62, with decades of impact behind him, K. Paul Thomas remains as committed and passionate as ever. He believes India’s next big revolution is not digital or industrial—but social.
“The marginalised must be brought to the mainstream,” he often says, “not through force or charity, but through dignity and opportunity.” In a world obsessed with unicorns and billion-dollar valuations, Paul Thomas stands as a gentle giant—building an empire of empathy, trust, and values.
His journey is a testament to what happens when business meets compassion, when banking becomes a vehicle for justice, and when a single individual chooses to walk the path less taken—with courage, clarity, and commitment.
A Name You Can Trust
Paul Thomas is more than the founder of a bank. He is the founder of a movement of trust. He believed in the poor when no one else did. He brought dignity to development. And he proved that the most sustainable business model is one rooted in humanity.
As India moves forward into a future of rapid change, leaders like him remind us of the timeless values that truly move the world—compassion, courage, and community.
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Pegasus Global Private Limited, under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ajit Ravi, is set to host the sixth edition of the Manappuram Unique Times Business Conclave 2025 on May 26th at Le Meridien, Kochi. This year’s theme, “How to Create Value in Your Business,” will focus on building enterprises that go beyond profit-making to positively impact society and the economy. The conclave is expected to bring together some of the most prominent business leaders and entrepreneurs from across the country.
The distinguished panel of speakers includes V.P. Nandakumar, Managing Director and CEO of Manappuram Finance Ltd; Dr. Jolly Antony, Founder & CEO of Al Safina Travel, Vibe Munnar, Fog Resort Spa, and Zeus Resort; CA Sreejith Kuniyil, Founder of CAPITAIRE & PravasiTax Solutions Pvt Ltd; Dr. Fathima Nilufer Sheriff, CEO of Therefore I’m; Navas Meeran, Chairman of Group Meeran and CEO of Eastern Condiments Pvt Ltd; Sir Sohan Roy SK, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Aries Group of Companies; and Muhammed Madani K, Founder and MD of ABC Group. The discussion will be moderated by CA Vivek Krishna Govind of Varma & Varma Chartered Accountants.
Attendance at the conclave is by invitation only and requires a valid entry pass. Those interested in being part of this high-impact business event are encouraged to contact 98460 50283 to request a pass. The conclave promises engaging conversations on purpose-driven entrepreneurship and the future of value-centric businesses.
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The Manappuram Unique Times Business Excellence Awards have been unveiled, celebrating remarkable achievements across diverse business sectors. These esteemed awards highlight individuals who have exhibited exceptional performance and leadership in their respective industries.
In the hospitality sector, Mrs. Mini Sajan has been awarded the Excellence in Hospitality Entrepreneurship Award, acknowledging her significant contributions to the industry. Suresh Pillai popularly known as Chef Pillai received the Excellence in Culinary Brand Building Award for his remarkable work in culinary branding, while Mr. V A Ajmal was honored with the Excellence in Strategic Business Growth Award for his achievements in driving business growth. Additionally, Mr. Mehroof Manalody was recognized with the Excellence in Global Education Impact Award for his impact on the education sector, and Mr. Jolly Antony received the Excellence in Cross-Sector Business Strategies Award for his innovative cross-sector business strategies.
The awards will be presented on Saturday, September 7, at 11:00 AM at Le Meridien, Kochi. The event, conceptualized by Pegasus Chairman Dr. Ajit Ravi, will bring together prominent figures from various industries to celebrate excellence in business and entrepreneurship.
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On August 13, 2024, the Unique Times Conclave, conceived by Dr. Ajit Ravi in partnership with Manappuram Finance Ltd., took place at Le Meridien, Coimbatore. Moderated by Dr. Kuriachan K A, Former District Governor of Rotary International, the event facilitated an insightful discussion on “Globalization and Its Influence on Education and Business,” delving into the impact of global trends on evolving educational and business practices.
The panel featured distinguished experts including Shri V R Muthu, Chairman of Idhayam Family; Shri V C Praveen, Vice Chairman of Sree Gokulam Group of Companies; Shri C K Kumaravel, Co-founder & CEO of Groom India Salons; Shri Soundararajan Bangarusamy, Chairman of Suguna Foods & Suguna Holdings; Dr. Arun N Palaniswami, Executive Director of KMCH Hospital & NGP Engineering College; and Dr. E Balagurusamy, Chairman of the EBG Foundation. Their discussions spanned global business strategies and the evolving role of education in preparing future leaders.
The conclave was honored by the presence of Chief Guest Padma Shri Dr. D R Karthikeyan, President of the Foundation for Peace, Harmony and Good Governance (Age Care India) and Former Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation. Dr. Karthikeyan’s keynote address highlighted the critical need to align educational outcomes with global business trends. The event successfully underscored the transformative impact of globalization on both education and business landscapes.
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On August 13, at the Le Meridien Hotel in Coimbatore, the 16th Manappuram Multibillionaire Business Achiever (MBA) Award will celebrate five distinguished business leaders from Tamil Nadu. This prestigious accolade grants recipients membership in the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF), an elite network for the world’s wealthiest individuals, each possessing assets of at least ₹1000 crore. The FICF is known for its members’ exceptional business achievements and commitment to social responsibility, encouraging them to use their entrepreneurial prowess for social progress.
Commemorating the MBA Award’s 15-year milestone in Kerala, the initiative now extends to other regions, recognizing 15 leading business figures from each area. This year, Tamil Nadu’s honorees include Shri Soundararajan Bangarusamy (Suguna Foods), Shri CK Kumaravel (Naturals), Shri VC Praveen (Sree Gokulam Group of Companies), Dr. Arun N Palaniswami (KMCH Group of Hospitals), and Shri VR Muthu (Idhayam Group). An additional ten recipients will be acknowledged in the coming months, with Dr. Ajit Ravi, FICF founder and Chairman of Pegasus, announcing a future shift to honoring one recipient annually.
Previous MBA Award winners include Shri VP Nandakumar, Shri Joy Alukkas, Shri MA Yusuff Ali, Shri TS Kalyanaraman, Shri PNC Menon, Shri Gokulam Gopalan, Dr. Ravi Pillai, Shri MP Ramachandran, Shri Kochouseph Chittilappilly, Shri Sabu M Jacob, Dr. Viju Jacob, Dr. AV Anoop, Dr. Varghese Kurian, Adv. Dr. P Krishnadas, and Dr. Hafeez Rahman.
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The Pegasus Group, in collaboration with Manappuram Finance Ltd, has revealed the 2024 recipients of the VPN IBE (FMB Awards). These awards celebrate notable individuals for their significant contributions and achievements in the fields of cinema, business, and media. This year’s distinguished honorees are Balachandra Menon for Film, Johny Lukose for Media, and Gokulam Gopalan for Business.
The awardees were selected by a respected committee consisting of C.V. Balakrishnan, Dr. M.C. Dilip Kumar, and Roy Manappallil. Their careful evaluation and deliberation resulted in the choice of these three exemplary individuals, each of whom has made a substantial impact in their respective domains. Pegasus Chairman Ajit Ravi expressed pride in the selections and confidence in the integrity of the judging process.
The awards ceremony will be held at the Meridian in Kochi on June 9 at 6:30 pm. Chairman Ajit Ravi announced that the event will celebrate these outstanding individuals and their contributions to cinema, business, and media, highlighting the commitment to recognizing excellence across various fields.
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