Asha’s Restaurant Birmingham, UK Wins Global Award For Its “Authentic Indian Cuisine”

Asha’s Restaurant & Cocktail Bar in Birmingham has been honoured with the prestigious global recognition from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), awarded to only five restaurants on a global stage.

The venue, located on Newhall Street and loved by both locals and international visitors, is the only restaurant in the UK to receive the Annapurna Certificate, a rare accolade presented by the Government of India for its role in promoting authentic Indian cuisine and preserving cultural heritage globally.

Marking the 75th anniversary of the ICCR, the award recognises restaurants that have made “outstanding contributions” to introducing Indian gastronomy to local communities worldwide, and for upholding the essence of India’s culinary traditions.

The award was presented at the Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi on 9th April, attended by senior dignitaries and key representatives. The evening was marked by the presence of Dr. S. Jaishankar, the Honourable Minister of External Affairs, who served as the Chief Guest acknowledging the role of Indian cuisine in shaping cultural dialogue across borders.

(AWARD CEREMONY SNAPS) *PICTURE DESCRIPTION: { Bobby Bassi, owner of Asha’s Birmingham, UK, seen receiving the prestigious Annapurna Award from the Government of India for outstanding contribution to Indian cuisine and culinary heritage worldwide.

Zanai Bhosle represented Asha’s Restaurants International—founded by her grandmother, the legendary Smt. Asha Bhosle—at the ICCR’s 75th anniversary celebration in New Delhi,

attended by Hon. Minister of External Affairs, Dr. S. Jaishankar.

Also pictured: Anand Bhosle & his Daughter Zanai Bhosle ( Singer & Actress ) seen here with Bobby Bassi owner of Asha's Birmingham, UK and General Manager Nouman Farooqui together with Brand MD Ms. Susan Potter. Representing Asha’s Birmingham at the ceremony, General Manager Nouman Farooqui led the delegation to New Delhi to accept the award. Reflecting on the recognition, Mr. Farooqui shared, “We’re delighted to be acknowledged by the Government of India for our dedication to offering the highest quality Indian cuisine.”

This honour holds special meaning for Asha’s — a brand inspired by the legendary Asha Bhosle, one of India’s most iconic voices. Beyond her musical legacy, Asha Bhosle’s passion for cooking, rooted in memory and experimentation, laid the foundation for what would become a culinary brand with global reach. From its first location in Dubai, Asha’s has grown into an award-winning restaurant group with over 14 locations across two continents, Middle East and United Kingdom.

The recognition from ICCR follows a string of accolades for Asha’s. Just last autumn, it was ranked 7th in the UK’s Top 10 Indian Restaurants by the British Indian Good Food Guide  the only Birmingham restaurant to make the Top 20.

Over the years, Asha’s has quietly built a following among some of the world’s most recognisable names — from Hollywood actors like Tom Cruise and John Malkovich to music legends including Ed Sheeran and The Rolling Stones. Its thoughtful approach to flavour has also been acknowledged by celebrated chefs such as Heston Blumenthal, Glynn Purnell, Paul Rankin, and James Martin, each appreciating the consistency and depth behind every dish.

Known for its contemporary approach to traditional Indian cuisine, Asha’s menu is a blend of North-Western specialities, Indian home-style dishes, and modern interpretations, many of which are inspired directly by Asha Bhosle’s own personal recipes — giving guests not only a remarkable dining experience, but a cultural story behind every dish.

AeroDef Nexus Launches The India Capability Bet

* A Long-Term Commitment to Accelerate India’s Aerospace Leadership

AeroDef Nexus today announced the launch of its India Capability Bet, a long-term commitment to enable India’s rise as a global aerospace and defense powerhouse. Aligned with Vision 2047 — Viksit Bharat@100, this initiative focuses on building foundational capabilities across key segments.

Key Focus Areas:

- MRO & Aftermarket Integration

- Growth Capital for A&D Startups

- MSME Supply Chain Enablement

- Dual-Use and Special Mission Technologies

- Ecosystem Infrastructure: Aero Park & Talent Academy

- Indigenous Aircraft and Subsystems Co-Development

"This is not a project. It is a mission. We are here to build — with focus, with speed, and with the right people," said Hardik J Someshvar, Founder of AeroDef Nexus.

The India Capability Bet prioritizes high-ROIC plays, fast-tracked by experienced leaders across investment, program execution, and supply chain orchestration.

AeroDef Nexus invites global OEMs, MSMEs, investors, and policy stakeholders to join this mission toward building India’s aerospace future.

AESL Celebrates JEE Mains 2025 Results: Over 8,056 Students Qualify For JEE Advanced, With 9 Students In Top 50 & 12 In Top 100

* Exceptional scores achieved by State Toppers from Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Haryana, Telangana, Ladakh and more in JEE Mains 2025

Aakash Educational Services Limited (AESL), the national leader in test preparatory services, proudly announces an exceptional achievement in the JEE Mains 2025 (Session 2) examination. An impressive 8056 students from Aakash have successfully qualified for JEE Advance, highlighting the institute’s dedication to helping students achieve their engineering dreams. The recent results, declared by the National Testing Agency (NTA) recently, showcase the hard work of students and the quality coaching provided by Aakash, further strengthening its reputation as a top choice for engineering aspirants.

Among the successful candidates, 2 students in the Top 10, 9 students in the Top 50, 12 students in the Top 100, 18 students in the Top 200, 39 students in the Top 500, 81 students in the Top 1,000, and 403 students in the Top 5,000, highlighting the institute's commitment to fostering academic excellence.

Students from Aakash’s classroom programs have set new benchmarks with their outstanding performances across various states Shreyas Lohiya and Kushagra Baingaha emerged as the topper from Uttar Pradesh, while Harssh A Gupta secured the top position in Telangana. Harsh Jha achieved the highest rank in Delhi (NCT). Additionally, Amogh Bansal led the rankings in Haryana, and Bashir Ahamad secured the top spot in Ladakh. Their exceptional achievements underscore Aakash’s commitment to academic excellence and student success.

Top achievers included Shreyas Lohiya from Lucknow, who secured a perfect score of 100 in both Mathematics and Physics. Kushagra Baingaha from Kanpur and Devya Rustagi from Gurugram also achieved full marks in both subjects. Other students who scored a perfect 100 in Physics were Harsh Jha from Delhi, Sarvesh Anand S from Vellore, Yash Kumar from Ranchi, Aditya Kumar from Gurgaon, Keshav Bansal from Chandigarh, Riddhima Singh from Noida, and Sahil Ray from Greater Noida. In Mathematics, Kushagra Baingaha from Kanpur, Harsh Jha from Delhi, Devya Rustagi from Gurugram, Sarvesh Anand S from Vellore, Yash Kumar from Ranchi and Aditya Kumar from Gurgaon, Keshav Bansal from Chandigarh and Riddhima Singh from Noida, Sahil Ray from Greater Noida scored 100 in Physics. Sarvesh Anand S from Vellore, Rujul Garg and Ayush Agrawal from Gurugram demonstrated exceptional proficiency with a flawless score of 100.

The students attributed their success to consistent preparation and the systematic approach of Aakash’s study programs. “The thoughtfully designed curriculum and the guidance of experienced faculty at Aakash were instrumental in helping us navigate the extensive syllabus with confidence,” they shared

Mr. Deepak Mehrotra, Managing Director & CEO, Aakash Educational Services Limited, said, “These outstanding JEE Mains 2025 results are more than just number, they are stories of ambition, resilience, and the transformative power of education. At Aakash, we are deeply proud to be a part of each student’s journey, helping them rise above challenges and unlock their true potential. The success of students qualifying for JEE Advanced, along with our state and national toppers, stands as a testament to the rigorous academic environment, expert mentorship, and unwavering commitment we bring to every classroom. This achievement fuels our belief that when preparation meets the right guidance, excellence becomes inevitable. Congratulations to our students, parents, and faculty, this is your moment, and the future you’ve worked so hard for begins today.’’

JEE (Mains) is structured in two sessions to provide students with multiple opportunities to enhance their scores. While JEE Advanced exclusively facilitates admissions to the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), JEE Main serves as the gateway to numerous National Institutes of Technology (NITs) and other Centrally-aided engineering colleges across India. Participation in JEE Main is a prerequisite for appearing in JEE Advanced.

AESL is recognized for offering thorough and effective preparation programs for students aiming to excel in high-stakes medical (NEET) and engineering entrance exams (JEE), as well as competitive exams like NTSE and Olympiads. The institute is dedicated to delivering top-quality test preparation services that empower students to realize their full potential and succeed in their academic pursuits.

Ageas Federal Life Insurance Rolls Out ProGrow Plan, Enabling Customers To Build Wealth With Flexible And Reliable Life Protection

*An innovative ULIP offering personalised protection, wealth-building opportunities, and investment flexibility for today’s discerning investors

Ageas Federal Life Insurance, one of India’s leading private life insurers, has introduced its latest innovative offering in the Unit Linked Insurance Plan (ULIP) segment — the ProGrow Plan. Designed for individuals aiming to secure their financial future while creating long-term wealth, the ProGrow Plan combines the dual advantages of dynamic market-linked growth potential and robust life insurance protection.

With a focus on flexibility and long-term wealth creation, the ProGrow Plan allows policyholders to customise their insurance and investment choices. Customers can select their life cover multiple, premium payment term, policy duration, and investment strategies based on their changing needs and risk appetite.

The plan also reinforces Ageas Federal’s commitment to responsible investing, with fund options ranging from equity growth to moderate asset allocation and bond funds, catering to diverse risk profiles. With customer-friendly features such as partial withdrawals post lock-in, policy revival options, and transparent charges, the ProGrow Plan offers unmatched control and convenience, empowering customers to steer their financial growth confidently.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Jude Gomes, MD & CEO, Ageas Federal Life Insurance, stated, “At Ageas Federal Life Insurance, we are deeply committed to creating innovative and customer-centric solutions that empower our customers to achieve lasting financial freedom and peace of mind. The ProGrow Plan realises this commitment by offering not just comprehensive life protection but also enabling customers to grow their wealth confidently through attractive market-linked returns.”

The ProGrow Plan is available with value-added features such as Loyalty Additions, Return of Charges, and a wide range of flexible investment options, making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking to take charge of their financial future and build a legacy of prosperity.

Mphasis Records Steady Performance; Robust Pipeline Fuels Confidence

Result Update

Information Technology   

April 25, 2025

ADD

CMP (Rs): 2,539 | TP (Rs): 2,800

Mphasis delivered a steady performance in Q4FY25. Revenue growth of 2.9% CC QoQ was the highest since the last 12 quarters, and in line with our estimate. Growth continues to be led by the BFS and TMT verticals, while challenges in Logistics persist. EBITM stood flat QoQ at 15.3%, a tad better than our estimate of 15.2%. The company won new deals with TCV of USD390mn in Q4; 85% of the deal wins were in new-gen services. Segments seeing the direct impact of tariffs have exercised caution and witnessed delays in decision-making. The management is focused on improving consistency in growth performance, and expects FY26 revenue growth to be above-industry on the back of strong deal wins, healthy pipeline, and steady TCV revenue conversion. It narrowed its EBITM guidance band to 14.75-15.75% (from 14.6-16% earlier), with the bottom-end leaving scope for increased investments, particularly in case of a mega deal. We trim FY26-27E EPS by ~2%, considering the Q4 performance and macro uncertainty. We retain ADD and TP of Rs2,800 at 25x Mar-27E EPS. 

Results Summary

Gross revenue grew 2.6% QoQ (2.9% CC) to USD430.4mn, in line with our estimate. Direct Revenue grew 5.4% QoQ in rupee terms (3.8% CC). EBITM was flat QoQ at 15.3%, coming in 10bps higher than our estimate. Among verticals, BFS, Insurance, and TMT grew 5.6%, 0.3%, and 8.2% CC QoQ, respectively, while Logistics & Transportation and Others declined 7.7% and 3.4%. Within geographies, Americas, EMEA, and RoW reported 5.2%, 2.3%, and 28.9% QoQ growth in rupee terms, respectively, while India declined 11.1% sequentially. Revenue from the top-10 and top 11-30 clients grew 5.8% and 5.7% QoQ, respectively. Total headcount was up by 248 QoQ to 31,442, after 4 consecutive quarters of a decline. What we liked: Momentum in BFS and TMT, strong deal intake and deal pipeline (up 26%/86% QoQ/YoY). What we did not like: Softness in Logistics & transportation (declined ~8%/16% QoQ/YoY).

Earnings Call KTAs

1) Macro headwinds have caused some delays in decision-making. Tech spending is likely to grow 2-3% in current environment. 2) BFSI and Healthcare are not impacted directly by tariffs, while Logistics, Supply chain, Manufacturing (particularly auto), Energy, and Railroads have been directly hit. 3) BFS growth is driven by wallet share gains, new logos, and large deals. Mortgage is stable. Insurance is poised for strong growth in FY26, backed by deal wins and pipeline. 4) Continued wins and conversion are driving revenue growth in TMT. 5) Logistics declined QoQ, impacted by macro volatility, but the pipeline remains healthy. 6) Client pyramid continues to improve, adding one client in the +USD75mn, one client in the +USD20mn, and three clients in the +USD5mn categories. 7) AI-led deals constitute 65% of the pipeline in Q4, up from 25% a year ago. 8) The company is focused on micro-level execution amid macro uncertainty, with a client-specific approach toward deal conversion and ramp-ups. 9) The management expects pace of revenue and deal conversion to continue, propelled by the savings-led transformation theme.

GEPL Season 2 Kicks Off In Bengaluru — Tune Into Star Sports And JioHotstar As Young India Powers The Rise Of Esports!

~ Day 1 of GEPL Season 2 featured four high-energy matches, including a double header for the home team Bengaluru Badgers and Mumbai Grizzlies ~

Season 2 of the highly anticipated Global e-Cricket Premier League (GEPL) powered by JetSynthesys, a global leader in digital entertainment and technology, got underway at the Koramangala Indoor Stadium in Bengaluru, marking the first time that the Garden City has hosted the league’s national launch. Conceptualised and developed by JetSynthesys, GEPL has swiftly evolved into one of India’s most structured and franchise-led esports properties — bringing together the nation's cricketing fervour and the dynamism of competitive gaming.

This season features six city-based franchises, each backed by prominent names from India’s entrepreneurial and entertainment ecosystem:

Mumbai Grizzlies – Owned by Ms. Sara Tendulkar, entrepreneur and philanthropist

Delhi Sharks – Owned by Mr. Peyush Bansal, Founder & CEO, Lenskart

Bengaluru Badgers – Co-owned by Mr. Nikhil Kamath (Co-founder, Zerodha & True Beacon), Mr. Ankit Nagori (Founder, Curefoods), and Mr. Prashant Prakash (Founding Partner, Accel India)

Chennai Falcons – Co-owned by Mr. Gopal Srinivasan (Chairman, TVS Capital Funds), Mr. Madhusudanan R (Founder, YAP), and Mr. Arjun Santhanakrishnan (Investor & Entrepreneur)

Hyderabad Rhinos – Owned by Mr. Amit Mehta, Director, LNB Group

Pune Stallions – Owned by Mr. Suniel Shetty, actor and investor

The opening day witnessed strong on-ground participation from league stakeholders, including JetSynthesys Founder & CEO Mr. Rajan Navani, and franchise owners Ms. Sara Tendulkar, Mr. Prashant Prakash, Mr. Ankit Nagori, Mr. Amit Mehta, and Mr. Gopal Srinivasan — underlining the growing investor confidence in India’s esports landscape.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Rajan Navani said, “GEPL reflects our commitment to building structured and scalable formats that bring India’s video gaming and sports cultures together. With Bengaluru hosting the opening for the first time and some of the country’s most credible business minds backing the league, Season 2 is a leap forward in making esports more mainstream, aspirational, and commercially viable.”

Expressing her excitement, Ms. Sara Tendulkar, owner of the Mumbai franchise said, “Cricket is deeply personal for me — it's in our family's DNA, a thread that ties generations together. I’ve seen how sport can inspire, unite, and empower. With GEPL, I see the future — a bold, digital frontier of cricket that reflects how today's youth connect, compete, and create communities. I want to play my part in powering this ecosystem, where young Indians not only engage as fans but also explore exciting new career avenues.”

As a co-owner of the home team (Bengaluru Badgers), Mr. Prashant Prakash pointed to the potential of e-cricket to create national icons: “GEPL has the potential to give us the Dhoni or Virat Kohli of e-cricket — individuals who can inspire pride, followership, and global recognition.”

Highlighting the cultural relevance of Bengaluru co-owner Mr. Ankit Nagori added, “Bengaluru is at the intersection of talent, technology, and youth culture. Supporting an esports team here felt instinctive — this is where the future of fan engagement is heading.”

From an investor’s lens, Mr. Gopal Srinivasan (co-owner Chennai Falcons) said, “GEPL is a meaningful step toward building a sustainable, investable esports ecosystem in India. The league’s format and quality of participation make it an exciting platform for both business and talent.”

Mr. Amit Mehta (owner Hyderabad Rhinos), who has long championed digital-first ventures, noted, “I’ve always believed in platforms that amplify young voices. GEPL gives rising esports athletes a real shot at visibility, reward, and community recognition.”

Mr. Rohit Potphode, CEO, GEPL added, “The energy and enthusiasm we witnessed on the opening day of GEPL Season 2 was truly phenomenal. From the electric atmosphere to the incredible response from fans, players, and team owners—it was a powerful reminder of how far the league has come. This season is all about taking e-cricket to the next level, and today’s kickoff has set the perfect tone for the days ahead. We’re excited for what’s to come.”

Day 1 of GEPL Season 2 featured four high-energy matches, including a double header for the home team Bengaluru Badgers and Mumbai Grizzlies. The tournament will be streamed live on JioHotstar and broadcast across the country on Star Sports, delivering the thrill of e-cricket to millions of fans across India.

Season 2 of GEPL marks a major milestone in the league’s evolution, with player registrations soaring from 2 lakh in Season 1 to over 9.1 lakh this year — a phenomenal fivefold surge. The upcoming edition raises the bar with enhanced league dynamics, elite talent, and next-level action powered by Real Cricket 24.

This season will feature 34 high-intensity matches and an upgraded prize pool of Rs 3.05 crore (up from Rs 2.51 crore), as GEPL continues to blur the lines between traditional cricket and cutting-edge esports through its immersive gameplay and franchise-based team format.

Knowledgeum Academy Celebrates Transcendence 2025 : A Journey From Guided Learning To Global Becoming

Knowledgeum Academy, one of Bengaluru’s leading IB World Schools, marked the Graduation Day of its IBDP cohort (2023–2025) with a grand ceremony in Jayanagar Called Transcendence 2025, the event represented not only the completion of a chapter but the beginning of a new journey—one where learners step forward as thinkers, leaders, and global citizens.

This year’s theme, ‘The Beginning of Becoming’, reflects Knowledgeum Academy’s  belief that education is an ongoing journey of growth, curiosity, and purpose. It mirrors the core of the IB Diploma Programme, which encourages learners to explore deeply, think independently, and lead with confidence.

The ceremony welcomed Dr Ramya Sethuram, a distinguished astrophysicist and Project Senior Scientist at the India-TMT Centre, Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru. With an illustrious career spanning India, China, and France, Dr Sethuram’s work in galaxy formation and astronomical instrumentation resonated deeply with the learners’ own journeys of exploration and discovery. Her presence and address inspired the graduating cohort to pursue their ambitions with curiosity, courage, and clarity.

The event was further enriched by the presence of the Academy’s founders, Dr Chenraj Roychand and Ms Aparna Prasad, whose vision has helped establish Knowledgeum Academy, backed by the JAIN Group, an educational leader with over 30 years of legacy as a forward-thinking, learner-centred international school. Sharing her thoughts at the ceremony, Ms Prasad stated:

“Transcendence is about more than academic success - it is about resilience, reinvention, and readiness for the unknown. Our learners have grown not just in knowledge, but in character, and today they stand ready to make meaningful contributions to the world. This is the beginning of who they are becoming.”

The event included a ceremonial procession, the lighting of the lamp, the transfer of leadership from the graduating cohort to their juniors, award felicitations, the yearbook reveal, and a surprise musical performance. Educators, families, and well-wishers joined in the celebration, capturing the pride and promise of the moment through heartfelt reflections.

While the graduating cohort was the focus, the Academy also celebrated its academic achievements from the previous year. In 2024, Knowledgeum Academy recorded an 81.25% pass rate, a top score of 39/45, and most learners performing above the global IB average. These results show the strength of the Academy’s academic framework, personalised learning environment, and the dedication of both learners and educators.

The graduating cohort, too, has much to celebrate. Several learners have secured early placements at prestigious institutions across the USA, UK, Italy, Switzerland, Europe, and India. From Ivy League universities to premier design, liberal arts, and technology schools, these pre-admissions affirm the Academy’s commitment to academic and career readiness. Knowledgeum’s dedicated University Guidance Programme and personalised mentorship have played a pivotal role in shaping this success.

Knowledgeum Academy continues to redefine accessibility in international education. Located in Jayanagar, Bengaluru, it offers a robust IBDP framework rooted in inquiry, interdisciplinary learning, and global citizenship. With small cohorts, experienced IB educators, and a values-driven approach, the Academy nurtures critical thinkers who are equipped not only with knowledge but with the empathy, adaptability, and leadership skills needed in the 21st century.

Transcendence 2025 was not only a celebration of what has been achieved - it also marked the beginning of what lies ahead. As the graduates step into the world, they carry forward the Knowledgeum Academy spirit: a love for learning, a sense of purpose, and the drive to help shape a better future.

To learn more about Knowledgeum Academy and its IBDP offerings, visit: www.knowledgeumacademy.in

*About Knowledgeum Academy*

Knowledgeum Academy, a pioneering educational institution under the JAIN Group, offers the globally recognised International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, equipping students with a holistic, inquiry-driven education that meets international standards, located in Bengaluru. Recognised as 'India's Top Emerging International School' by Education Day in 2023, the academy is dedicated to fostering a thriving environment for curious and ambitious learners. Offering the prestigious International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) for Grades 11 and 12, Knowledgeum Academy combines academic excellence with an engaging, interactive, and reflective learning approach. It is committed to shaping future-ready professionals equipped for global success.