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  • Growth plans accelerate at Piramal Finance as Jagdeep Mallareddy and Arvind Iyer map the push toward ₹1.5 lakh crore AUM and wider reach in Telangana

    The company reports ₹75,000 crore retail AUM and rising semi-urban demand as it expands its branch network, festive disbursements and the next phase of its Neeyat campaign.

    Piramal Finance has outlined a significant scale-up plan as it prepares to expand further across Telangana and move toward its long-term target of ₹1.5 lakh crore in overall AUM by FY28. Telangana continues to be one of the company’s most active markets for housing finance and MSME lending, supported by a strong customer base and a branch network that now includes 29 locations across key districts. Of these, 23 branches serve more than 51,500 customers, with demand for MSME-linked credit showing steady growth.
    The company has also introduced the latest phase of its flagship Neeyat campaign, Hum Kaagaz Se Zyaada Neeyat Dekhte Hain, which features three new films centred on families and small business owners. The narrative captures the aspirations and lived experiences that drive borrowing behaviour across semi-urban and emerging markets, reflecting the customer segments that constitute a large share of Piramal Finance’s retail portfolio.

    Piramal Finance’s retail AUM has crossed ₹75,000 crore, marking an expansion of three and a half times in four years. The company expects its retail book to exceed ₹1,00,000 crore by the end of FY26. Growth during the recent festive period was notable, with a 45 percent rise in disbursements led by home, personal and business loan categories. This follows a 32 percent increase during the first half of FY26. The company attributes this momentum to its high-tech, high-touch approach, which blends digital platforms with relationship-based engagement across its footprint.
    Jagdeep Mallareddy, CEO – Retail Lending at Piramal Finance, said the company sees considerable potential in Telangana and similar semi-urban markets across the country. He noted that Piramal Finance is focused on offering simple and transparent credit products for customers who may not always have conventional documentation, and that the company’s model enables a deeper understanding of customer realities while maintaining disciplined growth.

    Arvind Iyer, Chief Marketing Officer at Piramal Finance, said the new chapter of the Neeyat campaign draws directly from the stories the team encounters across its branch network. He added that the films mirror the aspirations of families and small business owners, capturing the optimism and intention that inform borrowing decisions in emerging markets. He said the campaign reinforces the company’s approach of engaging openly with customers, understanding their needs and supporting them as they move toward long-term progress.
    Piramal Finance was listed on the NSE and BSE earlier this month, marking an important step in its corporate journey. The company now serves 5.2 million customers across 13,000 pin codes through a network of 517 branches in 428 cities. Its consolidated AUM has increased from ₹49,000 crore in FY21 to ₹91,477 crore in Q2 FY26, with retail lending contributing more than 82 percent of the total book.

    The company’s underwriting and customer experience platforms are supported by more than 45 AI models used across credit assessment, collections and service delivery. These tools, combined with its phygital operating model, have helped Piramal Finance extend access to credit for customers with limited or no formal credit histories.
    As the company strengthens its presence in Telangana and sharpens its national scale-up plans, the next phase of growth is expected to be shaped by semi-urban borrowers, MSME-led demand and the continued shift toward digitally enabled credit journeys.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.

  • As the Panvel–Karjat corridor reaches 80 percent progress, Navin Makhija, Unnati Varma and Ram Naik map the region’s next growth phase

    MRVC’s latest project update signals a significant shift for the eastern MMR belt, where developers expect stronger demand for integrated townships, land-led housing and commuter-friendly suburban living.

    The Panvel–Karjat suburban railway corridor, one of the most significant transport links under development in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, has crossed 80 percent physical progress, marking a decisive step toward its commissioning. Updated details from the Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation indicate that key elements such as earthwork, bridges, tunnels, station structures and track preparation have reached advanced stages. With the civil backbone nearing completion, the corridor is expected to play a central role in reshaping residential preferences across Panvel, Chikhale, Mohape, Chowk and Karjat in the coming years.

    Once operational, the line will ease the load on the existing suburban network and improve daily mobility for commuters travelling between Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and the extended suburbs. The project’s impact is being closely watched by developers, brokers and buyers who view the corridor as part of a larger shift driven by parallel infrastructure projects including the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, the Navi Mumbai International Airport, node development in Panvel and road upgrades across eastern MMR. Together, these factors have strengthened confidence in the belt’s long-term real estate potential.

    Navin Makhija, Managing Director of The Wadhwa Group, said the corridor is poised to become one of the strongest growth drivers for the region. He noted that as connectivity improves and families consider long-term suburban living, integrated townships are likely to see higher demand because they combine lifestyle amenities with daily convenience. He added that projects located within a short radius of the railway line stand to gain further, as commuters place greater value on walkable access to transit. He believes that the Panvel belt will continue to mature as a preferred residential destination for both end-users and investors.
    Sharing a similar assessment, Unnati Varma, Director at ORA Group, said the steady progress on the Panvel–Karjat line reinforces the eastern MMR’s rise as a strong housing corridor. She pointed to growing interest in plotted developments, driven by buyers who want land ownership and the flexibility to build independently while remaining connected to key employment nodes. She added that the project will open up a wider range of residential choices for buyers who have been waiting for enhanced commuter connectivity.

    Nishant Deshmukh, Founder and Managing Partner of Sugee Group, observed that the corridor will redefine the long-term development outlook for the extended region. He said families are increasingly seeking well-planned communities that offer more open spaces and a balanced lifestyle while remaining accessible to the city’s commercial hubs. His view is that the combination of rail connectivity and supporting infrastructure projects will encourage the rise of gated communities and lifestyle-led neighbourhoods that match evolving urban expectations.
    Ram Naik, Co-founder and CEO of The Guardians Real Estate Advisory, said the Panvel–Karjat line represents a turning point for the outer zones of MMR. He noted that as commute times fall and larger land parcels become easier to reach, the region will attract both residential buyers and investors seeking long-term value creation. He expects demand to grow not only for apartments but also for plotted projects and strategic land investments, signalling the start of a broader urban expansion cycle.

    According to MRVC, the project’s technical milestones have advanced steadily. Tunnels along the alignment have achieved breakthrough and are in the final stages of lining. The rail flyovers at Panvel and Karjat are progressing with girder launches and deck works. Several passenger amenities at Panvel, Chikhale, Mohape, Chowk and Karjat have moved toward completion, including booking offices, foot overbridges and staff facilities. Track linking is underway across multiple stretches, supported by ballast formation and the placement of rail panels, while electronic interlocking at Mohape and Chowk has already been tested.
    The progress on the Panvel–Karjat corridor has begun to influence buyer interest in nearby markets, particularly among commuters looking for well-connected suburban homes. As more infrastructure projects near completion, industry stakeholders expect the area to attract new commercial activity, retail development and neighbourhood-scale services. The region’s improved accessibility is also expected to drive investor sentiment, supported by a long-term view of appreciation potential.

    As the project moves closer to completion, the Panvel Karjat belt is emerging as one of the most active growth pockets in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, reflecting a shift toward suburban living that combines connectivity, planned development and stronger lifestyle offerings.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.

  • India’s Pokémon UNITE 2026 qualifiers begin as Skyesports rolls out the national league

    Ten top-tier teams will battle for the lone India berth at the Asia Champions League Finals in Yokohama next year.

    The Pokémon UNITE Asia Champions League (PUACL) 2026 India League has been announced by The Pokémon Company, marking the start of the national qualifiers that will determine India’s representative at the PUACL 2026 Offline Finals in Yokohama, Japan. The India League carries a prize pool of USD 20,000 and will be executed by Skyesports, one of the country’s leading esports tournament operators. This edition brings together ten of India’s prominent esports organisations, reflecting the growth of Pokémon UNITE’s competitive ecosystem in the country and the rising participation seen over the past year.

    The tournament follows a multi-stage format beginning with a five-day Group Stage, scheduled on November 29, November 30, December 14, January 11 and January 18, before concluding with the King of the Hill Playoffs on January 31. The team that emerges as the India League champion will earn the country’s sole berth for the PUACL 2026 Offline Finals, which will take place at the Yokohama Buntai Arena and feature a significantly larger international prize pool.

    With the steady rise of Pokémon UNITE players and teams in India, the 2026 season strengthens the pathway from domestic competition to the Asian championship circuit. The participating teams include Autobotz, GodLike Esports, Marcos Gaming, Meta Ninza, Reckoning Esports, Revenant XSpark, S8UL, Team Tamilas, True Rippers and WELT Esports, forming one of the most competitive national lineups to date. Several of these organisations already have a strong track record across multiple esports titles, raising expectations for a closely fought season.
    Announcing the league, Shiva Nandy, Founder and CEO of Skyesports, said that Pokémon UNITE has built a strong and committed competitive community in India. He noted that the return of the Asia Champions League offers teams a platform to demonstrate their capabilities and that executing the India League once again allows Skyesports to provide a clear progression route for Indian players to enter top-tier Asian competition. He added that the mix of ten established organisations sets the stage for an exciting season as India prepares to send a representative to the global finals.

    Matches from the India League will be broadcast live on the official Pokémon UNITE and Skyesports channels, giving fans across the country access to the full tournament. The presence of teams such as S8UL, GodLike Esports, Team Tamilas and Revenant XSpark is expected to raise the level of play further, particularly as last year’s champions, GodLike Esports, return with the aim of reclaiming their national title and improving upon their earlier international performance in Japan, where they exited in the group stage.
    The launch of the PUACL 2026 India League highlights India’s growing footprint in the Pokémon UNITE competitive scene and sets in motion the selection of the national team that will compete among Asia’s best next year in Yokohama.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub

  • SRM School of Public Health joins the WHO-led Civil Society Task Force on Antimicrobial Resistance

    Professor Alex Joseph will lead SRM’s participation as India advances its national response through NAP AMR 2.0.

    SRM Institute of Science and Technology has announced that the SRM School of Public Health has been included in the World Health Organisation Civil Society Task Force on Antimicrobial Resistance. The appointment places the institution among 81 organisations working together on the growing public health challenge of antimicrobial resistance across the globe.

    SRM will be represented by Professor Alex Joseph from the Division of Epidemiology. He noted that antimicrobial resistance is shaped by multiple drivers across human, animal and environmental systems, making a One Health approach necessary. “Community-based participatory approaches are central to our work, and this platform allows us to amplify evidence-based strategies for AMR mitigation,” he said.
    The burden of antimicrobial resistance continues to rise. In 2021, 4.71 million deaths were associated with bacterial AMR, including 1.14 million deaths directly attributable to resistant infections. Global projections indicate that without stronger action, AMR could cause up to 10 million deaths each year by 2050.

    Dr Hari Singh, Dean, School of Public Health, SRMIST, said the appointment reinforces the importance of international engagement. He explained that the School provides an environment where students can participate in global health platforms and strengthen their understanding of complex public health concerns. He added that the inclusion in the WHO Civil Society Task Force supports the School’s commitment to public health education and research.
    India has renewed its national priorities through the launch of the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance 2.0 by Union Health Minister Shri J. P. Nadda on 18 November 2025. SRM’s participation in the WHO platform aligns with this national direction and contributes to the country’s engagement in global AMR governance.

    SRM Institute of Science and Technology, recognised as an A++ accredited, Category I university with 12B status, has continued to strengthen its academic and research ecosystem. The institution was ranked 11th nationally in the 2025 NIRF rankings and holds ratings from both QS and QS IGAUGE. SRM operates campuses across Kattankulathur, Acharapakkam, Ramapuram, Vadapalani, Tiruchirapalli, Modi Nagar, Sonepat, Amaravati and Gangtok.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub

  • As India adopts more AI-integrated electronics, Lexar introduces its updated 2025 storage lineup

    Lexar’s latest memory cards and SSDs arrive at a time when AI-linked smartphones, IoT products and imaging tools are driving higher storage requirements.

    Lexar has introduced its updated 2025 storage portfolio in India at a time when the country is seeing a noticeable rise in devices built with AI-led features across consumer, industrial and professional use cases. The shift has created stronger demand for high-speed, high-capacity and dependable memory solutions, especially as data-heavy tasks become routine for users and organisations.
    The expansion of AI in smartphones, imaging tools, connected devices and industrial automation has contributed to this growth. Government programmes such as Make in India and the Production-Linked Incentive scheme continue to support wider semiconductor activity in the country, while advances in chip design and edge computing devices have pushed up requirements for reliable embedded memory. With more IoT products now using AI for real-time processing, storage performance has become central to product efficiency.

    Responding to these changes, Lexar has strengthened its India portfolio with a range of products meant for creators, gamers, imaging professionals and users working with large data flows. The lineup includes next-generation memory cards, internal SSDs and portable SSDs designed for varied workloads across home, office and field environments.
    Speaking about the launch, Mr. Fissal Oubida, General Manager, India, Middle East, Africa and CIS, Lexar Co., said, “India is entering a new phase of digital transformation where AI-enabled devices are becoming mainstream across consumer and industrial applications. This rapid shift demands storage solutions that offer speed, capacity and reliability at scale. Lexar’s high-performance portfolio is engineered to address these evolving needs, whether it is advanced imaging, 8K video workflows, mobile content creation, AI development or next-gen gaming. We remain committed to empowering India’s growing digital ecosystem with products that deliver consistent performance and dependable use.”

    The new memory card series includes SD, microSD and CFexpress formats built for imaging tools, drones, AI-supported cameras and high-resolution video production. These cards are designed for faster read and write speeds and stable transfers suited to 4K and 8K workflows.
    The internal SSD range focuses on faster system response and reliability for users engaged in coding, editing, modelling, real-time rendering, gaming and other heavy applications. The SSDs aim to support lower latency, higher throughput and smoother multi-tasking for both personal and professional machines.

    With more creators and professionals working across hybrid and mobile setups, Lexar has also introduced updated portable SSDs. These drives feature high-speed transfers, compact designs and built-in security options to help manage large files, high-resolution media and mobile AI tasks outside fixed workspaces.
    Across sectors such as content creation, gaming, manufacturing, enterprise systems, mobility and e-commerce, India’s reliance on data-rich tools continues to increase. Lexar’s expanded product range has been designed to operate reliably under continuous workloads and meet the storage requirements of these segments.
    The company’s focus remains on strengthening its India presence through product development, channel partnerships and support systems aimed at both individual users and professional ecosystems.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub

  • Bhanzu enters the American classroom with its first physical math centre in Texas, led by founder Neelakantha Bhanu

    After strong U.S. online adoption, Bhanzu opens its first in-person learning space, bringing its speed-math and confidence-building pedagogy to Texas.

    Bhanzu has expanded its global footprint with the launch of its first physical math learning centre in the United States, located in McKinney, Texas. The move marks a significant step for the Bengaluru-headquartered education company, which has until now served U.S. learners entirely through its online programs.
    Founded by Neelakantha Bhanu, known for his world record as the “world’s fastest human calculator,” Bhanzu focuses on strengthening conceptual clarity, improving numerical confidence and making math more accessible for younger learners. The company has seen steady adoption across the U.S. in its digital format, and the opening of the Texas centre reflects growing demand among families seeking structured, STEM-oriented after-school learning.

    Speaking about the milestone, Neelakantha Bhanu, CEO and Founder, said, Taking Bhanzu to the United States is not just about global expansion, but about reimagining how the world learns math through deep conceptual clarity and confidence-first learning. India has long contributed to the world of mathematics. Bringing Bhanzu from India to the world through our first US learning center is a proud moment for us. We’re excited to bring this unique blend of learning and engagement to American classrooms and empower the next generation of problem solvers.
    Bhanzu’s learning model draws on speed-math techniques, step-based problem solving, storytelling and gamified exercises aimed at strengthening both accuracy and foundational understanding. Students engage through guided practice and paced instruction, with an emphasis on reducing hesitation and building comfort with numbers. Across its existing markets, Bhanzu reports having worked with more than 50,000 students in 16 countries.

    Prachotan D L, Co-Founder and Head of Business Development at Bhanzu, noted the significance of entering the U.S. with a physical space. “Our mission has always been to eliminate math fear globally. Establishing our first physical center in the US is not just an expansion, it’s a step toward changing how millions of children experience math, one region at a time. Our approach combines creativity, technology, and deep pedagogy to make math not only accessible but also enjoyable for students worldwide.”
    Parents in several U.S. states have increasingly turned to after-school and supplementary learning programs that offer measurable progression in numeracy and structured support in early STEM skills. The Texas centre introduces Bhanzu’s in-person model to this growing segment, extending its existing digital reach with a dedicated classroom environment.

    The company’s physical launch comes as more global education providers explore hybrid models in the U.S., combining interactive digital formats with face-to-face learning. Bhanzu’s first centre will operate as a pilot for its broader U.S. strategy, which aims to expand the availability of its math programs across regions with strong interest in STEM-aligned learning.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub

  • Redevelopment takes centre stage in Mumbai as Chandak Group and Khetsi Barot outline why premium buyers are choosing upgraded neighbourhood living

    Premium redevelopment is creating new value across locations such as Chembur, Andheri, Vile Parle, Bandra, Wadala, Borivali and Malad.

    Mumbai has always been a city shaped by ambition. Its neighbourhoods evolve with every generation, reflecting shifts in lifestyle, culture and economic aspiration. Today, that evolution has reached a turning point. With land saturation at historic levels and urban demands becoming more refined, premium redevelopment has emerged as the strongest force reshaping Mumbai’s residential landscape. The city’s most desirable future addresses are increasingly rising from the footprints of its older buildings, where familiar surroundings are being paired with modern planning, upgraded infrastructure and contemporary lifestyle environments.
    For decades, the arc of luxury in Mumbai was dominated by sea-facing bungalows, heritage apartments and large suburban villas. Over time, the rising density of the city, a shift in how people live and the acute shortage of available land have redefined that narrative. Redevelopment is no longer viewed as a structural necessity. It has become the primary route to creating high-quality homes in locations where the advantages are irreplaceable.

    Mumbai’s geography plays a central role in this transition. With the sea on three sides and a dense population that continues to grow, the city has little space left for greenfield development. Redevelopment has therefore become both a practical requirement and a long-term opportunity. It allows neighbourhoods to rejuvenate without losing their social character, while giving homebuyers access to modern amenities in areas they already trust and understand.

    In this changing landscape, several developers have been instrumental in shaping the premium redevelopment movement. Groups such as Godrej Properties, Hiranandani, Lodha Group, Oberoi Realty, Kalpataru, Chandak Group, Runwal, K Raheja Corp and Rustomjee are leading large-scale transformations across tightly held locations including Wadala, Chembur, Dadar, Andheri, Vile Parle, Bandra, Malad and Borivali. These neighbourhoods have long-standing residents, strong social networks, deep cultural ties and established connectivity, making redevelopment an attractive proposition for both existing occupants and new buyers.
    Among the developers influencing this shift, Chandak Group has placed a consistent emphasis on scale, planning and community-focused design. A spokesperson for the company notes that the current phase of redevelopment is not about merely replacing ageing buildings but about thinking more deeply about how neighbourhoods can function. He adds that today’s homebuyers prioritise identity, community and convenience, looking beyond the surface of finishes or floor plans and seeking environments that support modern living.

    This sentiment mirrors broader market patterns. A growing share of discerning buyers in Mumbai consists of global professionals, business owners, entrepreneurs and well-travelled families who value continuity as much as lifestyle upgrades. They want to stay within familiar neighbourhoods that offer comfort, routine, cultural alignment and proximity to extended networks. Redevelopment allows this rootedness while adding refinement, improved planning, technologically updated spaces and hospitality-inspired amenities.
    Adding another perspective to the transition underway, Khetsi Barot, Managing Director of The Guardians Real Estate Advisory, observes that redevelopment is now being recognised as a lifestyle choice rather than a construction-led activity. According to him, today’s buyers are choosing new homes that retain their cultural and social surroundings while providing more contemporary conveniences. This blend of familiarity and enhancement is one of the most defining trends in Mumbai’s premium residential markets.

    One of the most significant outcomes of redevelopment is the evolution of community-centric living. Since these projects arise within established micro-markets, they naturally draw residents with similar aspirations and values. This proximity fosters organic connections, stronger engagement and a sense of shared belonging. The city’s residential preferences have also begun to reflect this inclination toward curated communities rather than isolated living.
    Modern redevelopment projects also introduce significant improvements in design, amenities and land use. They feature well-planned layouts, space-efficient homes, sky terraces, landscaped decks, wellness zones, co-working areas, children’s learning spaces, pet-friendly zones, concierge services, banquet halls, indoor and outdoor sports facilities, dedicated fitness suites and landscaped open spaces. These features are no longer considered add-ons. They respond to lifestyles shaped by long commutes, demanding work schedules and the need for proximity to everyday essentials.

    In a city where time is frequently the most valuable resource, integrated living becomes a critical advantage. Redevelopment allows residents to stay connected to their existing ecosystems while gaining access to conveniences that support balance and well-being. The ability to live, work, relax and socialise within minutes of one another has become a defining appeal of modern projects.
    Chandak Group’s ongoing developments illustrate this shift. Chandak Highscape City in Chembur East is envisioned as a large integrated project that interacts meaningfully with its surroundings. It elevates the area through upgraded amenities, better planning and high-rise living while retaining the neighbourhood’s distinct character. Instead of disruptive change, the project introduces considered progression, aligning regional identity with improved infrastructure.

    In the western suburbs, Chandak Vansham in Vile Parle and Chandak Sarvam in Andheri East reflect a similar approach. They are situated within long-established residential pockets where buyers value cultural continuity, accessibility and everyday convenience. Their strong sales response indicates a broader trend in premium housing demand, where refinement and rootedness are viewed as complementary rather than opposite.
    The role of redevelopment in improving Mumbai’s housing stock is therefore both practical and emotional. It preserves the city’s familiar essence while raising its physical standards. It allows residents to upgrade without shifting their entire lives. It supports modern design without erasing legacy. This duality is becoming one of the strongest foundations for homebuying decisions in the city.

    Trusted developers now command a clear premium in this segment. The value buyers see is not limited to amenities or address. It includes reliability, transparency, project delivery, long-term durability and design clarity. These attributes hold particular importance in a redevelopment-driven city, where legacy and modern aspirations must coexist smoothly.
    As Mumbai’s skyline continues to evolve, one theme becomes increasingly evident. Its most desirable future addresses are emerging not from untouched land but from reinvention within its most established neighbourhoods. Premium redevelopment is shaping the next chapter of how the city lives, grows and defines itself. It is a story of continuity and progression, where Mumbai holds on to its history while reaching for its next horizon.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub

  • Naseeruddin Shah, Anupam Kher, Ratna Pathak Shah and Lillete Dubey lead the first edition of the Hyderabad Theatre Festival at Shilpakala Vedika

    The three-day festival on 12, 13 and 14 December features Ismat Apa Ke Naam, Autobiography and Kuch Bhi Ho Sakta Hai at Shilpakala Vedika.

    The Hyderabad Theatre Festival opens its first season next month, bringing some of India’s most respected stage actors and landmark productions to the city. After five seasons of the Delhi Theatre Festival and a strong debut for the Bengaluru Theatre Festival last year, Alchemist Live now introduces the Hyderabad chapter, expanding its theatre format to another cultural centre.
    The festival will run on 12, 13 and 14 December at Shilpakala Vedika, presenting a curated lineup led by Naseeruddin Shah, Anupam Kher, Ratna Pathak Shah, Lillete Dubey and other noted performers. Audiences will have the chance to watch celebrated plays that have travelled across India, including works that hold a long legacy in contemporary theatre.

    American Express continues its association with Alchemist Live as the Title Sponsor for the Delhi, Bengaluru and Hyderabad Theatre Festivals. Card members receive a five-day presale window before public ticketing begins, along with ongoing benefits on selected seats. Constella by Speed Infra joins as the Associate Sponsor for this inaugural edition.
    Sharing his thoughts on the launch, Mr Prabhu Tony, CEO and Co-Founder of Alchemist Live, said the Hyderabad edition adds a new chapter to the organisation’s theatre journey. He noted that the city has always nurtured a strong relationship with art and performance and added that hosting performers such as Naseeruddin Shah, Anupam Kher, Ratna Pathak Shah and Lillete Dubey makes the festival a meaningful beginning for audiences in the region.

    Reflecting on the return of one of his most widely performed works, Naseeruddin Shah said that staging Ismat Apa Ke Naam continues to feel like revisiting a classic that remains relevant to every new audience. He expressed his interest in seeing how Hyderabad responds to the play during the first season of the festival.
    The festival builds on the momentum created by the Delhi and Bengaluru Theatre Festivals, which together have welcomed more than sixty thousand theatregoers across their seasons. With Hyderabad’s long cultural links, organisers expect the new edition to draw a similar response and help position the city as a consistent stop for major theatre productions.

    Anupam Kher, who will present Kuch Bhi Ho Sakta Hai on the closing day, said his recent performance at the Delhi Theatre Festival was among the most memorable of his career. He added that he looks forward to bringing the play to Hyderabad and connecting with an audience known for its interest in performance and storytelling.
    Ratna Pathak Shah called the festival a timely addition to Hyderabad’s cultural calendar and said the transition from Delhi and Bengaluru to a new city is a natural progression for a format that has grown steadily each year.

    HTF Season 1 features three productions across its three days.
    Ismat Apa Ke Naam, performed by Naseeruddin Shah, Ratna Pathak Shah and Heeba Shah, will open the festival on 12 and 13 December.
    Autobiography, starring Lillete Dubey, Denzil Smith and Suchitra Pillai, will hold its Hyderabad premiere on 13 December.
    Kuch Bhi Ho Sakta Hai, performed by Anupam Kher, will close the season on 14 December.

    Lillete Dubey shared that presenting Autobiography in Hyderabad for the first time is a meaningful way to begin the festival’s journey. She added that her earlier association with Alchemist Live in Delhi and Bengaluru has shown her the value they place on creating an artist-friendly space for theatre.
    Tickets for the Hyderabad Theatre Festival are now available exclusively on BookMyShow, with further updates, artist information and programme details accessible through the official festival handle HyderabadTheatreFestival.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub

  • WHO South-East Asia Regional Office professionals complete data analytics and BI training at IIHMR University

    The three-day programme covered BI concepts, Power BI, Excel-based analysis and predictive techniques to support stronger public health decision-making.

    IIHMR University has concluded a three-day Management Development Programme on Data Analytics and Business Intelligence for professionals from the World Health Organization South-East Asia Regional Office. The programme brought together nineteen participants who work across different functions in regional public health and were looking to strengthen their ability to use data for operational, programmatic and strategic decisions.
    The training was structured to help participants move from basic data handling to more advanced analytical thinking. It combined classroom sessions, case discussions, practical exercises and applied assignments that reflected real health system challenges. The intention was to provide a setting in which participants could test new tools and approaches while also examining how data-driven processes can support public health planning across the region.

    Dr PR Sodani, President of IIHMR University, noted that the health sector is generating large volumes of information every day, from disease surveillance and digital health records to community-level indicators and programme data. He said that the ability to interpret this information effectively is now essential. Timely analysis can influence preparedness, early response and resource planning. He added that the purpose of programmes such as this is to equip public health professionals with the skills required to draw meaningful insights from complex data environments. He emphasised that stronger analytical capacity contributes to better intervention design and improved outcomes for communities.
    The programme content was designed to help participants understand the full chain of data use, beginning with basic structure and moving toward interpretation, visualisation and decision support. Sessions covered the fundamentals of Business Intelligence and the ways in which organisations integrate BI into planning and operations. Participants worked on data visualisation techniques, explored methods for dashboard creation and reviewed examples of how visual tools can be used to communicate trends, risks and performance indicators. The programme placed particular emphasis on Power BI and how it can be applied to public health datasets.

    The training also included detailed modules on Excel-based analysis. Participants were introduced to techniques for cleaning and manipulating datasets, including pivot tables, functions such as VLOOKUP and Index Match, and automation through macros. These sessions allowed them to work hands-on with health data, helping them understand how routine tools can be applied to the specific demands of health system monitoring and programme review. The faculty also introduced predictive concepts, focusing on how analytical techniques can be used to identify patterns and potential risks.
    Throughout the three days, discussions explored how data supports policy, surveillance and programme improvement. Participants examined examples from national and regional health systems, reviewing the way BI tools have been used to track indicators, identify service gaps, monitor programme performance and guide decisions. The training emphasised the importance of data quality, consistency and contextual understanding. Faculty members encouraged participants to question assumptions, validate information and examine the story behind each dataset.

    The programme was facilitated by IIHMR University faculty members Dr Ritu Vashistha, Dr Purnendu Shekhar Pandey and Dr Swapnil Gadhave. Each brought experience drawn from academic research, management education and field-level engagement. Their sessions helped link technical methods with the realities of public health practice, offering examples of how analytics can support surveillance, system strengthening and planning across the South-East Asia region.
    Participants worked in groups on short assignments, case exercises and practical demonstrations that required them to apply the tools discussed in the sessions. The concluding presentations allowed each group to summarise what they had learned and how they might apply the skills within their own work environments.

    By the end of the programme, participants gained exposure to a structured approach to Business Intelligence and analytics. They also engaged with new tools that can help them examine data more effectively and present insights more clearly. IIHMR University stated that the objective of this programme, and others like it, is to support public health professionals as they undertake more complex analytical responsibilities in the region.
    The training reflects the increasing importance of evidence-based decision-making in public health. As countries across the South-East Asia region strengthen digital platforms, surveillance systems and reporting processes, professionals who can interpret and apply data are essential to improving early detection, planning and preparedness. Programmes such as this help build the analytical foundation needed to support more responsive and informed systems.

    IIHMR University noted that it will continue developing specialised offerings that respond to the needs of the public health workforce. The university acknowledged the participation of the nineteen professionals from the World Health Organization South-East Asia Regional Office and highlighted the value of continued collaboration in capacity-building initiatives. The institution stated that the programme reinforced its commitment to strengthening public health leadership and analytical capability in the region.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub

  • A new phase of US international education emerges with India leading enrolments, backed by Prodigy Finance analysis

    India records a 9.5 per cent rise in US enrolments with growing interest from smaller cities, heavier STEM participation and wider use of OPT pathways.

    A new phase of US international education emerges with India leading enrolments, backed by Prodigy Finance analysis
    India records a 9.5 per cent rise in US enrolments with growing interest from smaller cities, heavier STEM participation and wider use of OPT pathways.
    The landscape of US international education has entered a new period of growth, shaped largely by the choices and mobility of Indian students. The latest numbers in the Open Doors 2025 report show that the United States has crossed 1,177,766 international students in the 2024 and 2025 academic cycle, a rise of 4.5 per cent. India stands out strongly in this trend. At 363,019 students, Indian enrolment alone makes up nearly a third of all international students in the country. The year-on-year growth of 9.5 per cent shows that the interest in US international education is not only steady but expanding in scale and demographic reach.

    Prodigy Finance, which funds international postgraduate students, has recorded similar shifts in its applicant data. The most visible change is the origin of US-bound students within India. The interest is no longer concentrated in the larger metros. Students from Indore, Bhubaneswar, Punjab, Surat, Coimbatore, Mysuru, Nagpur and several parts of Northeast India are applying in greater numbers. These applicants include children of teachers, small business owners and mid-career professionals whose pathways into US international education were more limited in earlier years. The growth from these cities has been faster than the growth from the metros, indicating that US international education has moved deeper into India’s smaller regions and household groups.
    This widespread participation is tied closely to the academic choices students are making. Open Doors and India-specific datasets show that 43.4 per cent of Indian students in the United States are enrolled in mathematics and computer science. Another 22.8 per cent are in engineering. Seven in ten Indians in the US now sit in STEM classrooms. This concentration has kept demand stable even as global enrolments fluctuate, since US international education continues to hold particular value for students pursuing scientific and technical fields.

    The prominence of STEM has also influenced the way students move from education into early career stages. Optional Practical Training has become a central part of this transition. The US Department of Homeland Security identifies OPT as the primary pathway for international graduates entering the American workforce. The Open Doors 2025 India data shows rising participation from Indian postgraduates who are using OPT to build work experience in the United States. Extended OPT periods for STEM graduates have made the route especially relevant. More master’s and doctoral graduates from India are choosing to remain in the country through OPT before considering options such as the H1B or other work categories. This approach helps them gain experience, develop networks and position themselves more effectively in the early stages of their careers.
    Prodigy Finance notes that this shift is visible in the questions students ask and the preparation they undertake before applying. Sonal Kapoor, Global Chief Business Officer at Prodigy Finance, says that students continue to view the United States as the place where academic depth and career potential come together. Even when they evaluate options such as the United Kingdom, Germany, Australia or the United Arab Emirates, the United States remains a leading choice. She adds that the larger change lies in who is applying. Students from smaller cities appear better informed about programme structures, STEM pathways, work timelines, OPT rules and financing frameworks.

    She also points to a rise in planning behaviour among Indian students preparing for the Spring intake. Prodigy Finance opened its Spring 2026 funding cycle earlier than usual due to high demand. Kapoor notes that the Spring pathway is becoming a serious alternative to the traditional Fall entry, indicating that students are planning well in advance and adjusting to the flexibility offered by US universities.
    Although students are exploring multiple destinations globally, the academic appeal of the United States remains strong. States such as California, New York, Texas, Massachusetts and Illinois continue to feature among the most selected destinations for Indian students. These states host universities with established reputations in computer science, engineering, data-focused disciplines, applied sciences and professional fields that align strongly with India’s current academic and career preferences.

    The broader picture that emerges is that US international education is now being shaped by a new segment of Indian students, both geographically and academically. The path that once began primarily in large metros now begins in smaller cities where families have clearer access to information and financing options. Students aim for STEM courses that offer depth and clarity, rely on OPT for early professional exposure and plan their post-study timelines with a sharper understanding of long-term outcomes. At the same time, the United States continues to offer a structure that ties academic learning to work experience in a way that aligns with these aspirations.
    Prodigy Finance’s insights and the Open Doors 2025 data together show that this movement is not a short-term rise but a deeper shift in Indian mobility. The trend reflects a confident and broad-based student base that approaches US international education with clear goals and long-term planning. It also reflects a wider change in India itself, where students from varied regions and backgrounds are shaping international education in a way that is more representative of the country’s social and economic spread.
    Taken together, these developments signal that the next phase of US international education will continue to be strongly influenced by India. The appeal of the United States remains familiar, but the students driving this growth reflect a changing India, one that is defined by ambition, clarity and an expanding sense of what global pathways can offer.
    At Prittle Prattle News, we honor your dedication and inventiveness led by showcasing you in a positive light. Under the direction of Editor-in-Chief Smruti Bhalerao, our platform is committed to disseminating powerful narratives that raise awareness and motivate change. For more important stories, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTub