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VPN IBE Awards 2026 Recognizes Excellence Beyond Boundaries

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The prestigious Manappuram VPN IBE Awards 2026 was held on June 23, 2026, at the Gokulam Park Hotel & Convention Centre, Kochi, honouring distinguished personalities who have made remarkable contributions to business, technology, retail, innovation, and cinema. The awards were presented by Shri V. P. Nandakumar, Chairman & Managing Director of Manappuram Finance Ltd., and Dr. Ajit Ravi, Chairman of Pegasus. Hosted by Dr. Ajit Ravi, the event celebrated individuals whose achievements have inspired excellence and created a lasting impact on society.

Among the distinguished awardees, Dr. Jehangir, Chairman & Managing Director of NeST Group of Companies, received the Global Technology Leadership Award in recognition of his exceptional contributions to the global technology sector. As Dr. Jehangir was unable to attend the ceremony, the award was received on his behalf by Shri Sajan David, President, New Initiatives, who represented him at the event. Shri Gopu Nandilath, Chairman & Managing Director of Gopu Nandilath Group, was honoured with the Retail Industry Icon Award in recognition of his pioneering leadership in the retail industry. Dr. Viju Jacob, Executive Chairman of Synthite Industries Limited, was conferred with the Global Business Excellence and Innovation Award for his outstanding achievements in business growth and innovation.

Adding further prestige to the ceremony, Padma Shri Balachandra Menon, renowned Indian film director, actor, and screenwriter, was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his invaluable contributions to Indian cinema. The event concluded on a high note with the awardees receiving warm applause from an audience comprising business leaders, dignitaries, and distinguished guests. The VPN IBE Awards once again reaffirmed its stature as a platform that recognizes visionary leadership, innovation, and lifelong excellence across diverse fields.

Pic Courtesy: Pegasus Photography/ images are subject to copyright

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Teen Glam World 2026: Shrika Satheeshan from UAE Claims the Crown

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Shrika Satheeshan from the UAE has been crowned SAJ Group Hotels & Resorts and DQ Watches Teen Glam World 2026, with Alona Angel James from India as the first runner-up, Sarah Vanderdonckt from France as the second runner-up and Kapshik Kira from Russia as the third runner-up. The highly anticipated pageant, featuring talented contestants aged 13 to 18 from across the globe, culminated on 23rd June at the Gokulam Park Hotel & Convention Centre, Kochi. Organized by Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd under the visionary leadership of Dr. Ajit Ravi, the event set new standards in celebrating youth, talent, and individuality.

Reigning queen Bellefontaine Marie, along with Sajan Varghese, CMD of SAJ Group of Hotels & Resorts, crowned the winner of the title. Preethi Parakkat, Managing Director of Parakkat Jewels, crowned the First Runner-Up. The Second Runner-Up was crowned by Vijayakumar, Chairman of Aiswaria Advertising, and Deepthi Vijayakumar, Managing Director of Aiswaria Advertising. Dr. Jolly Antony, Chairman of Vibe Munnar Resort & Spa and Managing Director of Fogg Resort, and Dr. Ajit Ravi, Chairman of Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd crowned the Third Runner-Up. The coronation ceremony was held in the presence of Dr. Ajit Ravi, Chairman of Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd.

The judging panel for Teen Glam World 2026 included Ashwaria Ullas (First Runner-Up, Miss Glam Universe 2025; Second Runner-Up, Miss Asia Global 2025; First Runner-Up, Miss Queen Kerala 2025), Rita Mathan (Owner, Pro Nail Studio), Alina Farkhutdinova (Miss Glam World 2025), Maeva Balan (Model) and Ambika S Nair (Actress) all of whom brought their expertise to evaluate the contestants. Breaking away from traditional pageantry norms, Pegasus prioritizes talent and personality over conventional practices, focusing on empowering young individuals and fostering confidence.

Subtitle Winner

Teen Glam World National Costume – France (Sarah Vanderdonckt)

Teen Glam World Talent – UAE (Shrika Satheeshan)

Teen Glam World Ramp Walk – Russia (Kapshik Kira)

SAJ Group Hotels and Resorts and DQ Watches are the main partners of Miss Glam World 2026 organized by Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd. Unique Times, Alcazar Watches, Parakkat Resorts, Vibe Munnar, and Green Media are powered by Partners.

Co-partners are DQUE Soap, Aiswaria Outdoor Media, Europe Times, UT World, Times New, uniquetimes.org, Vikas VKS Make-Up Artist, Gokulam Park Hotel & Convention Centre, VPS Lakeshore Hospital, JD Institute of Fashion Technology, Akshay Inco, and VKS Beauty and Bridal Lounge.

The event showcased Pegasus’ unparalleled commitment to innovation and quality, with its mission to promote cultural diversity and tourism while creating an empowering platform for young talent. Teen Glam World 2026 left a lasting impression with its grandeur, purpose, and celebration of youthful excellence.

Pic Courtesy: Pegasus Photography/ images are subject to copyright

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Dr. Yogesh Lakhani Earns Coveted MBA Honour

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The 21st edition of the Manappuram Multibillionaire Business Achiever (MBA) Award was conferred upon Dr. Yogesh Lakhani, Chairman and Managing Director of Bright Outdoor Media Limited, at a grand function held on June 23, 2026, at the Gokulam Park Hotel & Convention Centre, Kochi. The prestigious honour was handed over by Shri V. P. Nandakumar, Chairman and Managing Director of Manappuram Finance Ltd., Shri Gokulam Gopalan, Founder & Chairman, Sree Gokulam Group and Chairman, FICF, and Dr. Viju Jacob, Executive Chairman, Synthite Industries Limited and 11th MBA award recipient in the presence of Dr. Ajit Ravi, Founder of Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd, the MBA Award, and the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF).

Dr. Yogesh Lakhani is a visionary entrepreneur and industry leader whose inspiring journey from a humble single-room office in Mumbai to building one of India’s most respected outdoor advertising companies reflects extraordinary resilience, innovation, and determination. Under his leadership, Bright Outdoor Media Limited became the first outdoor advertising company in India to be listed on the BSE and earned recognition in the Guinness World Records for installing the largest number of solar panels on a single billboard in Mumbai. Today, the company stands as a leading 360-degree media and advertising powerhouse, renowned for executing high-impact campaigns for leading brands, blockbuster films, and globally celebrated events.

With this remarkable achievement, Dr. Yogesh Lakhani joins the elite ranks of the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF), one of the world’s most prestigious business forums. FICF membership is exclusive to business leaders possessing a minimum of ₹1,000 crore in assets and demonstrating a strong commitment to social responsibility. The MBA Award, instituted to recognize exceptional business leaders with significant social involvement, has previously been bestowed upon Shri V.P. Nandakumar, Shri Joy Alukkas, Shri M.A. Yusuff Ali, Shri T.S. Kalyanaraman, Shri P.N.C. Menon, Shri Gokulam Gopalan, Dr. Ravi Pillai, Shri M.P. Ramachandran, Shri Kochouseph Chittilappilly, Shri Sabu M. Jacob, Dr Viju Jacob, Dr. A.V. Anoop, Dr. Varghese Kurian, Adv. P. Krishnadas, Dr. Hafeez Rahman, Shri Soundararajan Bangarusamy, Shri V.R. Muthu, Shri V.C. Praveen, Dr. Arun N. Palaniswami, Shri C.K. Kumaravel, Shri T.K. Chandiran, Sir Sohan Roy SK, Dr. Vijay Sankeshwar, and Dr. Siddeek Ahmed. The MBA Award stands as a distinguished symbol of recognition, celebrating visionary entrepreneurs who drive transformative change in both business and society.

Pic Courtesy: Pegasus Photography/ images are subject to copyright

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FICF Drives Social Impact With the Launch of ‘Cryptic 2.0’

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On 7 December 2025, Cryptic 2.0 – India’s Biggest Mentalism Show was launched under the leadership of Gokulam Gopalan, Chairman of the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF). The event was graced by Dr. Ajit Ravi, Founder of FICF, who highlighted the show’s purpose-driven mission. Mentalist Nipin Niravath, the lead performer, was also part of the launch proceedings.

According to organisers, all proceeds from the show will be directed towards charitable causes, demonstrating their commitment to meaningful social outreach. They expressed that Cryptic 2.0 represents both artistic excellence and collective responsibility.

FICF, the presenting body, stands distinguished as the only 1000-crore club, bringing together top-tier leaders and innovators dedicated to impactful development. Its continued support for socially beneficial initiatives is reflected in the launch of Cryptic 2.0.

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Federal International Chamber Forum Welcomes New Chairman and Patron Ahead of 2026 Ceremony

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The Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF) has announced key leadership, naming Shri Gokulam Gopalan as Chairman and Shri V P Nandakumar as Patron. The announcement signals a strategic step forward for the organization as it continues to consolidate its position as an elite global business collective.

FICF is a highly exclusive forum consisting solely of MBA Award laureates—distinguished leaders recognized for exceptional business success, ethical leadership, and significant contributions to society. Conceptualized by Dr. Ajit Ravi, the forum brings together industry pioneers who represent the highest standards of excellence and influence.

Dr Ajit Ravi, Founder, FICF & MBA Award

The MBA Award, which grants entry into FICF, is awarded annually to an accomplished leader whose assets exceed ₹1,000 crore and whose achievements reflect exceptional excellence, philanthropy, and commitment to nation-building.

To commemorate this new leadership announcement, FICF will host a prestigious felicitation ceremony on January 6th, 2026, at Le Meridien, Kochi. The occasion will bring together past award laureates, dignitaries, and industry leaders to honour the contributions of the newly inducted Chairman and Patron.

Under the leadership of Shri Gokulam Gopalan and the patronage of Shri V P Nandakumar, FICF aims to strengthen its international presence and continue fostering collaboration among the world’s most influential business leaders.

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India Advances Toward a Cashless Economy: Insights from the Manappuram Unique Times Conclave 2025

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At the Manappuram Unique Times Conclave 2025, held in Kochi, India, on November 4th, financial and technology leaders convened to explore how digital banking and taxation are shaping the nation’s transition to a cashless economy. Organized by Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd under the leadership of Dr. Ajit Ravi, the conclave reflected India’s growing influence in the global fintech transformation.

The high-profile panel featured V P Nandakumar, CMD of Manappuram Finance Ltd; Hari Velloor, EVP of ESAF Bank; Keshav Mishra, CEO & Co-Founder of 8byte AI; Bobby Thomas Varghese, Associate Director at EY Global Delivery Services; and Nikhil K G, CEO of Pentad Securities, with CA Vivek Krishna Govind of Varma & Varma serving as moderator.

Discussions highlighted India’s rapid strides in digital finance, stressing the synergy between innovation, governance, and inclusive growth. Experts agreed that the nation’s transition toward a cashless, transparent, and technology-driven economy will set a model for emerging markets worldwide.

Pic Courtesy: Pegasus Photography/ images are subject to copyright

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Global Elegance: Varsha Reddy from India Wins Alcazar Watches DQUE Mrs Glam World 2025

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On September 23rd, 2025, the Gokulam Convention Centre, Kochi, transformed into a dazzling hub of culture and glamour as the Alcazar Watches DQUE Mrs Glam World 2025 unfolded. The prestigious crown was lifted by Varsha Reddy from India, with Cheng Shan Wen from Taiwan as the first runner-up and Katsiaryna Sianiuta from Belarus as the second runner-up. In addition, the parallel title of Mrs Glam Universe 2025 went to Monique Avril Fortune from New Zealand.

Dr Ajit Ravi, Chairman, Pegasus and Jebitha Ajit, MD, Pegasus jointly crowned the title winner along with Sajan Varghese, MD, SAJ Group of Companies, and Preeti Parakkat, MD, Parakat Jewels crowned the first and second runner up, respectively. Additionally, Mrs Glam Universe was crowned jointly by MD of SAJ Group of Companies, Sajan Varghese, and Chairman of Pegasus, Dr Ajit Ravi. The crowning took place in the presence of Pegasus Founder Dr Ajit Ravi. Parakkat Jewelers crafted the elegant gold crown that symbolized the honor bestowed upon the champions.

Dr Ajit Ravi emphasized that Pegasus’ approach has always been about giving women from all walks of life — entrepreneurs, homemakers, professionals, and dreamers — a stage to showcase their skills, confidence, and stories.

The 12 Finalists Representing the World

Dr Dhanya Sajeev (Australia), Katsiaryna Sianiuta (Belarus), Biniasch Sulina Olga (Germany), Varsha Reddy (India), Shiny Sunny (Ireland), Odonchimeg Davaanyambuu (Mongolia), Monique Avril Fortune (New Zealand), Raisa Niraj Ved Zakirova (Russia), Anastasiia Rybakova (Siberia), Vishani Munasinghe (Sri Lanka), Cheng Shan Wen (Taiwan), Julia Mariam Vijobi (UAE).

Expert Jury

The winners were selected by a distinguished panel:

  • Harmeet Singh, MD, U&I Entertainments
  • Magen Fernandes, Mrs India Global 2021 & Model
  • Ambika S Nair, Actress
  • Dr Thomas Nechupadam, CEO, Appearance / Smile Designing Expert & Orthodontist

Continental Titles

Mrs Glam World Asia – Srilanka (Vishani Munasinghe)

Mrs Glam World Oceania –  Australia (Dr Dhanya Sajeev)

Mrs Glam World Europe –  Germany (Biniasch Sulina Olga)

Mrs Glam World Eurasia – Russia (Raisa Niraj Ved Zakirova)

Subtitle Honors

Mrs Glam World Fashionista – Ireland (Shiny Sunny)

Mrs Glam World Talent – Srilanka (Vishani Munasinghe )

Mrs Glam World Congeniality –  India (Varsha Reddy)

Mrs Glam World Vivacious –  UAE (Julia Mariam Vijobi)

Mrs Glam World Ramp Walk – India (Varsha Reddy)

VeeKayVees Gourmet Queen – Belarus (Katsiaryna Sianiuta)

Mrs Glam World National Costume –  Taiwan (Cheng Shan Wen)

Mrs Glam World Inspiring – Russia (Raisa Niraj Ved Zakirova)

Partners:

  • Main Partners: Alcazar Watches, DQUE
  • Powered by Partners: SAJ Group Hotels & Resorts, Manappuram Finance Ltd, Dr Pallu Doctor, DQUE Soap, JVK Motors, Parakkat Resorts, VIBE, DQUE T-shirts, Green Media
  • Co-partners: Aiswaria Advertisements, Kalpana International, VeeKayVees Caterers, UT World, Unique Times, Europe Times, Times New, VPS Lakeshore, Akshay Inco, Padikkal Travels, Image Factory, JD Institute of Fashion Technology

With this, Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd reinforced its legacy as the only pageant organizer worldwide to exclude the bikini round, instead valuing talent, cultural identity, and heritage, and promoting tourism alongside women’s empowerment.

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Anastasiia Rybakova from Siberia Shines as Mrs Asia Global 2025 Title

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Anastasiia Rybakova from Siberia was crowned the Mrs Asia Global 2025 winner in a dazzling celebration at the Gokulam Convention Centre, Kochi, on 23rd September 2025. Vishani Munasinghe from Srilanka claimed the first runner-up title, while Nadezhda Tsoi from Russia was named the second runner-up. The evening’s crowning moment also saw Aishwarya Sahdev from India being honored as Mrs Asia 2025.

The winner was crowned jointly by Pegasus Chairman Dr. Ajit Ravi and Pegasus MD Jebitha Ajit. Pegasus Chairman Dr. Ajit Ravi and SAJ Group of Companies MD Sajan Varghese crowned the first runner-up, while Parakkat MD Preethi Parakkat and Pegasus Chairman Dr. Ajit Ravi crowned the second runner-up. Additionally, the Mrs. Asia winner was crowned by Vibe Munnar Chairman Dr. Jolly Antony. The crowning took place in the presence of Pegasus Founder Dr. Ajit Ravi. The crowns, symbolizing elegance and achievement, were masterfully created by Preethi Parakkat of Parakkat Jewelers.

From across continents, 10 finalists graced the stage with their charm and confidence: Dr Dhanya Sajeev from Australia, Aishwarya Sahdev from India, Shiny Sunny from Ireland, Odonchimeg Davaanyambuu from Mongolia, Nadezhda Tsoi from Russia, Anastasiia Rybakova from Siberia, Vishani Munasinghe from Sri Lanka, Ho Hui Ching from Taiwan, Phairpilin Luangsantimit from Thailand, and Aiswarya Jayachandran from the UAE.

Subtitles Winners:

Mrs Asia Global Fashionista – Mongolia (Odonchimeg Davaanyambuu)

Mrs Asia Global Talent – UAE (Aiswarya Jayachandran)

Mrs Asia Global Congeniality – Thailand (Phairpilin Luangsantimit)

Mrs Asia Global Ramp Walk – Thailand (Phairpilin Luangsantimit)

Mrs Asia Global National Costume – Russia (Nadezhda Tsoi)

Mrs Asia Global Vivacious – Russia (Nadezhda Tsoi)

Mrs Asia Global Inspiring – Australia (Dr Dhanya Sajeev)

Mrs Asia Global Diligent – India (Aishwarya Sahdev)

The distinguished judging panel featured Harmeet Singh (Managing Director, U&I Entertainments), Magen Fernandes (Mrs India Global 2021 & Model), Ambika S Nair (Actress), and Dr Thomas Nechupadam (Orthodontist & CEO, Nechupadam Dental Clinic).

Partners:

  • Main Partners: Alcazar Watches and DQUE
  • Powered by: SAJ Group Hotels & Resorts, Manappuram Finance Ltd, Dr Pallu Doctor, DQUE Soap, JVK Motors, Parakkat Resorts, VIBE, DQUE T-shirts, Green Media
  • Co-Partners: Aiswaria Advertisements, Kalpana International, DQUE Soap, VeeKayVees Caterers, UT World, Unique Times, Europe Times, Times New, VPS Lakeshore, Akshay Inco, Padikkal Travels, Image Factory, JD Institute of Fashion Technology

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Decade of Distinction: Manappuram VPN IBE Awards 2025 Honours Icons of Excellence

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The Manappuram VPN IBE Awards 2025 illuminated Kochi’s Gokulam Convention Centre on September 23 with a star-studded ceremony celebrating a decade of honouring excellence. Established in 2015 by Dr. Ajit Ravi in gratitude to his mentor V. P. Nandakumar, Chairman & MD of Manappuram Finance Ltd., the award debuted in Sri Lanka and has since become a distinguished symbol of recognition.

The 2025 edition brought together leaders from varied fields, with the awards presented by V. P. Nandakumar; and Dr. Ajit Ravi, Chairman of Pegasus.

Among the evening’s distinguished honourees were:

  • Dr. K. Paul Thomas, MD & CEO of ESAF Group of Social Enterprises – Beacon of Inclusive Banking Excellence Award.
  • S.K. Abdulla, MD of Lakeshore Hospital and Research Centre Ltd. – Exemplary Leader in Healthcare and Philanthropy Award.
  • Dr. Varghese Kurian, Group Chairman & MD of VKL Group – Business Luminary in Real Estate, Hospitality, and Philanthropy Award.
  • Dr. Gokulam Gopalan, veteran film producer and media leader – Lifetime Achievement Award in Indian Cinema.

The evening, hosted by Dr. Ajit Ravi, concluded with standing ovations for the honourees. With glamour, inspiration, and heartfelt tributes, the VPN IBE Awards 2025 reinforced its legacy as a platform spotlighting visionaries shaping industries and society at large.

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Meru Saito of Japan Crowned Miss Glam World Asia 2025 at Grand Finale in Kochi

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In a dazzling celebration of beauty, culture, and confidence, Meru Saito from Japan was crowned Miss Glam World Asia 2025 during the spectacular grand finale held at the Gokulam Park Convention Centre, Kochi. The highly anticipated event, organized by Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd, once again affirmed its reputation for excellence in global pageantry. Founded and conceptualized by Dr Ajit Ravi, the brand continues to offer a prestigious platform that brings together talented women from across continents. The winner was crowned by Dr G D Singh, Founder & Managing Director of Unified Brainz Group Holdings Inc.

Meru Saito of Japan, Miss Glam World Asia 2025

The evening was judged by a distinguished panel that included Dr G D Singh (Founder & MD, Unified Brainz Group Holdings Inc.), renowned model and pageant winner Debasmita, international mentor and model Marcia Leonar Brito Machado Marques, Dr Fong Toh Jeng (CEO and Founder, UR Klinik), and TangLe Hsu, Mrs Glam World Asia 2024. The panel brought together expertise from diverse fields to assess contestants on various criteria including elegance, intellect, and cultural representation. Subtitles were also conferred during the event by a panel of eminent personalities.

Meru Saito of Japan, Miss Glam World Asia 2025

Adding grandeur to the evening was the stunning gold crown designed by Preethi Parakkat of Parakkat Jewels, specially crafted for the winners. The Miss Glam World platform continues to empower women globally, celebrating individuality while fostering cross-cultural unity and global representation.

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