Kotak BizLabs Launches Season 2 To Empower 75+ Audacious Startups Across India

Kotak deepens its commitment to India’s entrepreneurial spirit with expanded reach and an incubator network

Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. (“KMBL”/ “Kotak”) today announced the launch of Season 2 of the Kotak BizLabs Accelerator Programme, a bold expansion of its flagship CSR initiative designed to support early-revenue stage startups with deep mentorship, market access, and catalytic funding.

Running from October 2025 to November 2026, Season 2 will support 75+ startups across India, with a continued focus on deep-tech, sustainability, clean energy, fintech, digital technology, edtech, agritech, and healthtech. The programme expands its national footprint across North, South, West, and Central India, and welcomes IIT Delhi’s Foundation for Innovation & Technology Transfer (FITT) as a new incubation partner, joining IIMA Ventures, NSRCEL – IIM Bangalore, and T-Hub. The selection of ventures and acceleration support is managed  by the incubators.

Phase 1: Driving Tangible Impact In its debut year, Kotak BizLabs has made a mark on India’s startup landscape: 1,500+ applications received from across the country 500+ founders engaged through outreach and knowledge sessions 55 startups accelerated with structured mentorship and incubation 32 ventures received funding support, fuelling their next stage of growth Low touch engagement through roadshows, networking mixers, workshops etc. in 14 cities

Phase 2: In its second year, Kotak Bizlabs is looking to elevate the initiative: 800+ startups expected to be engaged through outreach and knowledge sessions 75+ startups expected to accelerated with structured mentorship and incubation 60+ ventures to receive funding support, fuelling their next stage of growth Low touch engagement through roadshows, networking mixers, workshops etc. in 20+ cities

 

“Kotak has always believed in backing the entrepreneurial spirit of India—not just in metros, but in Tier-II and Tier-III cities where innovation is thriving,” said Himanshu Nivsarkar, Head – CSR & ESG, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. “With Season 2 of the Kotak Bizlabs Accelerator Programme, we are scaling our commitment to founders who dare to dream big and build bold.”

“Kotak BizLabs is our way of walking the talk—it’s a mission to power audacious dreams that can truly shape India’s future,” said Rohit Bhasin, President - Head of Affluent, NRI, and Business Banking and Chief Marketing Officer, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd. “We believe that when you back the right ideas with the right intent, magic happens. That’s the spirit of ‘Hausla Hai Toh Ho Jayega’ in action.”

Anand Sri Ganesh – CEO, NSRCEL “We are thrilled to partner once again with Kotak Mahindra Bank in empowering India's dynamic startup ecosystem through Season 2 of the Kotak BizLabs. By extending deep mentorship, market access, and catalytic funding to promising startups across diverse sectors, this initiative catalyzes transformative innovation in Tier-II and Tier-III cities in addition to the metros. At NSRCEL, our mission aligns closely with Kotak’s vision of nurturing audacious entrepreneurs who build impactful solutions that drive India's growth.”

Chintan Bakshi - Partner Incubation, IIMA Ventures "What sets Kotak BizLabs apart is the intensive and structured supported offered to founders from tier 2 and tier 3 cities - startups leveraging tech to solve some of the toughest social and environmental challenges. In partnership with IIMA Ventures, the program is structured to provided multiple levels of support for startups founders from the states of Gujarat, Rajasthan, MP and Maharashtra - pitches at four cities to activate local angel investors and HNIs, intensive bootcamp at IIMA and structured mentoring and technical assistance"

Season 1 of Kotak BizLabs Accelerator Programme saw 32 high-potential startups awarded grants for breakthrough solutions across agritech, climate tech, fintech, edtech, healthcare, indigenous art & craft, deeptech, cleantech, and sustainability. These ventures are already creating jobs, raising follow-on capital, and solving real-world challenges with ingenuity and purpose. The success of Season 1 has inspired Kotak to scale up its efforts, expanding the programme’s reach and ambition in Season 2.

Kavikrut, CEO of T-Hub: "Kotak’s outcome-focused programme has reinvented how CSR engages with impact-first startups. Founders who are building with T-Hub have worked with mentors to refine their growth plans, deployed capital towards creating capabilities, and the programme has further validated their product–market fit. We are excited to scale this partnership between startups, Kotak, and T-Hub with the launch of the next cohort."

Dr Nikhil Agarwal, MD, FITT IIT Delhi “At FITT IIT Delhi, we are excited to join hands with Kotak Mahindra Bank to nurture bold, innovation-driven startups and help them scale with global ambition and deep social impact—because at the heart of our mission and Kotak’s belief, Hausla Hai Toh Ho Jayega.”

With India now the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, Kotak BizLabs Accelerator Programme is uniquely positioned to bridge critical gaps in mentorship, market access, and seed capital—especially for founders outside the traditional VC spotlight.

Kotak Bizlabs Accelerator Programme is a CSR initiative of Kotak Mahindra Bank Limited.

DCT Abu Dhabi And New York Knicks Unveil Emirati-Inspired Basketball Court

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), through its destination brand Experience Abu Dhabi, has partnered with the New York Knicks to unveil a newly refurbished basketball court at Sheikha Fatima Park.

 

The court brings together Abu Dhabi’s creative heritage and global basketball culture, reflecting DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to creating spaces for the community to enjoy and connect.

 

Designed by self-taught Emirati artist Aysha Saif Al Hamrani, the court takes inspiration from traditional Emirati mandoos furniture—a handcrafted wooden chest used to safeguard valuables. Its intricate patterns are reimagined across the court surface, framing the Knicks logo and celebrating the link between Emirati craftsmanship and modern sport.

 

Details such as the central circle, echoing the mandoos ‘lock plate’, and the geometric motifs along the sidelines highlight Al Hamrani’s artistry—transforming the court into a living piece of cultural design.

 

Explaining her vision, Al Hamrani shared: “The mandoos is traditionally crafted in mirrored halves, rich with repetition and balance. Similarly, a basketball court is symmetrical, with two sides reflecting each other. By layering mandoos-inspired geometry into the court, the floor becomes a dialogue between tradition and sport, heritage and modernity.”

 

Located in the heart of the city, Sheikha Fatima Park continues to serve as a popular green urban space for families, friends, and basketball enthusiasts. The refurbished court adds a vibrant new experience for residents and visitors alike.

 

This marks the second community basketball court redesigned in Abu Dhabi, following the successful refurbishment at Reem Central Park. Together, these projects highlight DCT Abu Dhabi’s ongoing efforts to foster creativity, encourage active lifestyles, and bring the community together through shared spaces that celebrate local culture.

Consumer Trust Overtakes Discounts As Key Driver Of Festive Shopping: Infisum-Empower India Report

 

Amazon leads in trust, reliability, and reach, recording 38 crore visits in the first two days of its festive sale 

India’s e-commerce ecosystem has entered a new era of accelerated growth and maturity, shaped more by trust and reliability than by discounts alone. According to the Infisum–Empower India Festive Performance Report 2025, Amazon has emerged as the most trusted and reliable e-commerce platform for Indian consumers, with an industry-best 85% customer satisfaction rate (Kantar), and consistently leading in delivery reliability, product authenticity, and overall shopping experience.

 

The report, which compares the festive season performance of Amazon, Flipkart, Meesho, reveals how consumer behaviour is evolving: Amazon set a record of the highest-ever customer visits in just the first two days of its Great Indian Festival. In comparison, Flipkart reported strong double-digit growth in Tier 2 participation and demand for premium products, while Meesho attracted around 24 crore visitors, largely from smaller towns.

 

The study notes that while affordability remains important, especially for first-time buyers, trust and reliability are the defining factors shaping purchase behaviour. A YouGov survey cited in the report found that 51% of shoppers expressed fatigue with mega sale events due to perceived discount inflation, while 40% cited poor product quality as a deterrent to online shopping.

 

"Our research reveals a fundamental shift in what drives Indian consumer decisions online," said Dr. Badri Narayanan Gopalakrishnan, Founder, Infisum. "As the market matures, discount fatigue and heightened concerns about product authenticity are reshaping consumer behaviour. Amazon's focus on trust and reliability has given it a competitive edge, particularly among quality-conscious consumers."

 

“This report provides a clear snapshot of how platforms are carving out distinct identities," said K. Giri, Director General, Empower India. “Amazon stands out with its premium and nationwide consistency, Flipkart with its electronics strength, and Meesho with its affordability-first model. What’s most remarkable is that a majority of Amazon’s record-breaking festive traffic came from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities; proving that Bharat is not just buying more but buying better.”

 

The report also underscores a shift towards premiumization this festive season, with shoppers spending more on electronics, appliances, and aspirational lifestyle products. Amazon led the surge in premium smartphone, QLED and Mini-LED TV, and appliance sales, while Flipkart saw demand jump for premium refrigerators and dishwashers.

 

The research also briefly examined Blinkit's emergence in the quick commerce sector, noting its strong urban footprint and leadership in fast

About Empower India

Empower India is a leading policy think tank dedicated to generating insights and solutions to drive inclusive economic development. Through rigorous research and analysis, Empower India offers actionable recommendations to foster sustainable growth and equitable progress in urban and rural communities. delivery with over 50% market share, though challenges remain in scaling beyond metro areas.

 

The study concludes that while Flipkart and Meesho continue to play important roles in India’s diverse e-commerce ecosystem, Amazon’s integration of trust, scale, and innovation sets it apart as the most comprehensive platform for Indian consumers in 2025.

  

About Infisum

Infinite-Sum Modeling is a global economic research and advisory firm that applies rigorous, model-based analysis to inform policy and strategy. Established with the belief that growth is collaborative and non-zero-sum, Infisum partners with governments, institutions, and businesses to design solutions in areas such as trade, energy, climate, labor, and investment strategy. By combining academic rigor with real-world expertise, Infisum delivers insights that drive sustainable and inclusive outcomes.

Manipal School of Commerce And Economics Concludes “Samudyamah” - A Conclave In The Age Of AI

The Manipal School of Commerce and Economics (MSCE), a constituent institute of the Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, successfully concluded its two-day Industry–Academia Business Conclave “Samudyamah”, held on October 8 and 9, 2025, at the MSCE campus in Manipal. 

Themed “People, Businesses and AI, Way Forward: Responsibility to Think and Grow Together,” the conclave served as a strategic platform for dialogue and collaboration between academia and industry, aligning with MAHE’s Year of Excellence in Industry–Academia Collaboration — an institutional initiative dedicated to fostering innovation-oriented partnerships.

 

The inaugural session of Samudyamah witnessed the presence of distinguished guests and leaders from academia and industry: Mr. Kunal Gajwani, Senior Director – Business Development, CueZen Inc., graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, while Prof. (Dr) Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Management, Law, Humanities and Social Sciences), MAHE, was the Guest of Honour. The event was presided over by Dr. Giridhar P. Kini, Registrar, MAHE, and commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Sandeep Shenoy, Director, MSCE.

 

The two-day conclave brought together over 400 students, 50 faculty members, and 20 eminent industry leaders representing organizations such as KPMG India, Zoho Corporation, Razorpay, Volvo India, Tech Mahindra Consulting, WPP Media, CareEdge, TCS, Amazon, Tiger Analytics, CueZen Inc., Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Spatial Grid Inc., ContexQ, and Nirmala Travels.

 

Across ten panel discussions and a keynote address, experts deliberated on topics critical to the future of business and society, including AI and Data-Driven Personalization in Digital Health, Human–AI Collaboration and Workplace Culture, AI and HR Leadership, Finance in the New Age, Brand Partnerships in the Age of AI.

 

Panelists explored pathways for bridging the talent–application gap through structured internships and placements, enhancing faculty development and research collaborations, and creating frameworks for workforce readiness in an AI-driven economy.

Dr. Harish S. Kumar, Director, Office of Corporate Relations, MAHE, highlighted the need for sustained collaboration to drive employability, innovation, and industry relevance.

 

Prof. (Dr) Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Management, Law, Humanities and Social Sciences), MAHE, commented: “Samudyamah reflects MAHE’s enduring commitment to advancing thought leadership and collaboration between academia and industry. It is through such platforms that we bridge skill gaps, accelerate innovation, and ensure that technology continues to empower people and society responsibly.”

 

Expected outcomes included strategic recommendations for AI adoption, frameworks for talent exchange, and joint research and innovation opportunities that align academic curricula with industry demands.

 

The conclave culminated with an insightful valedictory session addressed by Mr. Subhro Bhattacharya, Associate Partner, KPMG India, who emphasised the importance of ethical AI and the human dimension of digital transformation.

 

Through Samudyamah, MSCE reaffirmed its mission to nurture future-ready professionals, foster research-driven innovation, and strengthen the bridge between learning and application — ensuring that AI-driven transformation remains inclusive, ethical, and human-centric.

 

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education:

The Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University. MAHE offers over 400 specializations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and an enriching campus life, as well as for national & multi-national corporates looking for top talent.

 

About Manipal School of Commerce and Economics:

Manipal School of Commerce and Economics (MSCE), a constituent institution of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University is a premier center for business and economic studies committed to academic excellence and holistic development. The school offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs that blend theoretical knowledge with practical insights, preparing students for global careers in commerce, economics, and management. With an emphasis on innovation, research, and industry collaboration, MSCE nurtures analytical thinking and entrepreneurial skills. Its vibrant learning environment, experienced faculty, and global exposure enable students to become responsible leaders capable of navigating the evolving business landscape.

Titan launches India’s First Wandering Hours Timepiece, A Milestone In Its Horology Journey

Stellar 3.0 Introduces Three Limited-Edition Timepieces, Combining Celestial Inspiration, Advanced Horology, and Rare Materials

A new chapter in Indian watchmaking was written as Titan unveiled Stellar 3.0, Inspired by the Infinite, its landmark festive collection. At the heart of the 9 extraordinary timepieces are 3 limited-editions, led by a historic first for the nation: The Wandering Hours, unveiled at an exclusive launch showcase at Bastian at the Top, Mumbai.

Stellar 3.0 was imagined as a canvas where infinite celestial wonders meet horological ingenuity. The Wandering Hours transforms this vision into reality. Inspired by orbiting moons and wandering stars, its drifting numerals glide across a sculpted arc like planets charting their celestial course. Twin satellite discs, forged in crystallized titanium and accented with a brushed copper bezel, revolve with measured elegance across the minute track. Powered by Titan’s in-house movement, this limited-edition masterpiece, offered in just 500 pieces, is priced at ₹1,79,995.

The Ice Meteorite makes a triumphant return, building on its success in Stellar 1 and 2, now featuring a cosmic ice-blue dial plated on authentic 1,20,000-year-old Muonionalusta meteorite, merging deep space history with bold contemporary design, priced at ₹1,39,995. The Aurora Caelum, priced at ₹95,995, glows with a luminous green dial reminiscent of the northern lights, framing astral discs in harmonious motion.

Kuruvilla Markose, CEO, Watches & Wearables, said, “For 41 years, Titan has defined Indian watchmaking through creativity and craftsmanship. Stellar 1.0 sparked a new conversation in design, Stellar 2.0 elevated precision and detail, and now Stellar 3.0 takes a bold leap into uncharted territory. Powered by Titan’s in-house movement, the Wandering Hours marks a defining moment as we gear up to place Indian horology firmly on the global map, where innovation, artistry, and technical mastery converge to create an extraordinary experience. This is only the beginning of a long journey, and we are committed to taking Indian watchmaking to even greater heights.”

Stellar 3.0 as a whole is built on three creative pillars: Celestial Phenomena, capturing the rhythm of cosmic cycles; High Horological Functions, blending advanced mechanics with storytelling depth; and Rare Materials, transforming elements of the universe into wearable art. Across nine timepieces, these ideas converge to offer collectors and dreamers a glimpse of infinity.

Available exclusively at select Titan stores and online at www.titan.co.in, Stellar 3.0 invites collectors, dreamers, and watch enthusiasts to step into a universe where the infinite is no longer distant, it lives on your wrist.

Ashok Kheny Honored At South PowerList 100 At South Indian Business Achievers Awards 2025 In Dubai

Mr. Ashok Kheny, a distinguished visionary and leader in infrastructure development and public service, has been recognized as one of the most influential South Indian-origin individuals shaping the world at the South PowerList 100 event. The accolade was presented at the prestigious South Indian Business Achievers Awards (SIBA)  coinciding with the global South Indian International Weekend.

The South PowerList 100 honors pioneers whose work transcends boundaries across business, government, science, culture and social change. Ashok Kheny’s inclusion acknowledges his relentless commitment to excellence, innovation and sustainable development. Known for spearheading transformative projects like the NICE Road infrastructure initiative, Mr. Kheny has played a pivotal role in catalysing regional growth and connectivity.

The event featured a cinematic live reveal, with global media coverage amplifying the significance of the award. Alongside the award ceremony, the honourees are featured in a coffee table book and digital platform showcasing their narratives and accomplishments to a worldwide audience. Outlook Business, the official media partner, provided extensive coverage, further highlighting Mr. Kheny’s achievements.

Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Kheny said, “This honour reflects not just my journey but the collective effort of countless individuals committed to progress. I am humbled to represent South India on this global stage and remain dedicated to driving purposeful change.”

This recognition solidifies Ashok Kheny’s stature as a transformative leader whose vision continues to inspire and impact communities across India and beyond.

Forum South BLR Fest 2025 Unveils World’s Largest 40ft Gramophone

 The city’s most anticipated festive celebration, Forum South BLR Fest, returns for its 3rd edition with the exciting theme “Back to the Future.” The highlight of this year’s celebration is the unveiling of the world’s largest 40ft walk-through gramophone.

From its towering horn to intricate design motifs, the installation reimagines the gramophone as an immersive retro-futuristic wonderland—where nostalgia blends seamlessly with imagination.

Built over 15 days by a team of 20 skilled artisans, the installation required 3,500 man-hours of craftsmanship and attention to detail. The gramophone celebrates the cultural revolutions of the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s, evoking memories of mixtapes, family gatherings, and timeless conversations that music inspired across generations.

“Forum South Bengaluru has always been at the forefront of curating immersive experiences. With the world’s largest 40 ft gramophone, we are celebrating both the nostalgia of the past and the imagination of the future, making this year’s fest truly unforgettable.” — Muhammad Ali, CEO, Forum Malls, Prestige Group.

Featured Experiences & Events:

Immersive Gramophone Journey: Step inside the 40 ft structure and relive an era of nostalgia, a bridge between the past and the present generation.

Interactive Retro-Futuristic Décor: Neon lights, UFO-inspired elements, and larger-than-life installations spark wonder and imagination.

●        Usha Uthup Live Concert (October 19, 2025): Experience the legendary singer live in concert, bringing timeless music to the fest. BookMyShow

●        Festive Shopping & Brand Experiences: Explore curated shopping and brand showcases while soaking in the festive ambiance.

Forum South BLR Fest 2025 promises a one-of-a-kind celebration, blending nostalgia with innovation. With its mix of music, art, shopping, and live performances, the fest builds on its legacy of creativity— from last year’s Navrathan installation to this year’s record-breaking gramophone.

Ticketing & Event Details:

●        Date: 8th October 2025 onwards

●        Address: Forum South Bengaluru, Kanakapura Road, Banashankari, JP Nagar

●        Price: Tickets to witness the decor of the immersive Gramophone experience start at ₹199/-

●        Tickets: Available on BookMyShow