Bussiness featured News

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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Bussiness featured News

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.

Pic Courtesy: pegasus photography/ images are subject to copyright

Indian news

Le Meridien Kochi sparkled with glitz and glamour as the VPN IBE (FMB Awards) gala unfolded, a collaborative effort by Pegasus Group and Manappuram Finance Ltd. This grand event was dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the luminaries who have carved their names in the annals of cinema, business, and media with their exceptional talent and dedication.

In a momentous acknowledgment of his cinematic legacy, Shri Balachandra Menon was honored with the prestigious Film Iconic Legacy Award. The Media Excellence Award found its deserving recipient in Mr. Johny Lukose, while Mr. Gokulam Gopalan was hailed as the Business Visionary Award winner for his groundbreaking contributions to the corporate world.

Distributing these coveted accolades was none other than Shri V. P. Nandakumar, the distinguished MD & CEO of Manappuram Finance Ltd, adding an aura of reverence to the proceedings. With the esteemed presence of Show Director Ajit Ravi, the VPN IBE (FMB Awards) gala became not just a celebration of achievement, but a beacon of inspiration for future generations striving for excellence in their chosen fields.