featured News Trending

The Manappuram Unique Times Business Conclave 2026, organized by Pegasus Global Pvt Ltd in association with FICF and INMECC, was successfully held on 23rd May 2026 at Le Méridien Kochi. Powered by Lexus, Alcazar Watches, DQ T-Shirts, and Klamy New York, the conclave brought together leading business personalities and industry experts to discuss the theme, “How AI is Transforming Everyday Business Decisions.” The event was founded and conceptualised by Dr Ajit Ravi. The program commenced with a welcome address by Dr. N M Sharafudeen, Chairman, INMECC, who welcomed the distinguished guests, speakers, and delegates, and highlighted the growing significance of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of businesses across industries.

The insightful panel discussion was moderated by Shri Rajesh Nair, Partner, Ernst & Young LLP, who guided the conversation on the growing role of artificial intelligence in reshaping business operations, customer engagement, strategic planning, and decision-making processes across industries. The session highlighted how AI is increasingly becoming an essential tool for organizations seeking efficiency, innovation, and sustainable growth.

The distinguished panel featured Shri Gokulam Gopalan, Chairman & Managing Director, Sree Gokulam Group; Dr. A. V. Anoop, Managing Director, AVA Group; Shri Dinesh P. Thampi, Vice President & Head, TCS Kerala; Shri Deepak L. Aswani, Chairman & Managing Director, Aswani Lachmandas Group; Dr. Jolly Antony, Chairman, Vibe Munnar Resort & Spa, Managing Director, The Fog Resort & Spa, Munnar, Chairman, Alsafina Travel Group (UAE & India), and Growvia.biz; and CA Vivek Krishna Govind, Senior Partner, Varma & Varma. The panelists shared valuable insights from their respective sectors, discussing both the opportunities and challenges presented by AI-driven transformation.

The conclave served as an important platform for knowledge sharing and industry collaboration, enabling business leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and stakeholders to gain practical perspectives on integrating AI into everyday business functions. The event reaffirmed the growing importance of technology-driven decision-making and highlighted the need for organizations to adapt to the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Pic courtesy: Pegasus Photography/ images are subject to copyright

featured News

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.

Pic Courtesy: pegasus/ images are subject to copyright

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.

Pic Courtesy: google/ images are subject to copyright

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.