Devika Patkar

March 2013
Mahayoung
50 plus one
L e t ’ s e m p o w e r t h e
e n t r e p r e n e u r s w i t h i n . . .
M A C C I A
It is the Apex Chamber of the State, estd
in 1927.
The Chamber plays a
pivotal role in supplementing and
augmenting the
efforts of Government for the economic development
of the State and
advancement of its
people. The Young
Entrepreneur’s wing
works specifically
towards the interests of young & budding entrepreneurs.
There are many milestones
in each of our lives. Indicators of progress made,
goals achieved, success
acquired. Turning 18, first
job, getting married, the
first baby, moving into your
new house… are all milestones which are a source if
immense joy.
In this 86yrs life of MACCIA,
MAHAYOUNG is the new
milestone of its Young Entrepreneurs’ Wing. We are
pleased as punch, coming
as we do from where we
do. These are the young
achievers and successful;
strugglers and jugglers;
movers and shakers – they
have achieved or are on the
verge of achieving their
share of success on pure
merit, with sheer hard
work, determination, and
no doubt passion for their
work and good life. These
MAHAYOUNG are slowly
moving up the path, pinnacle in sight.
This issue has the young
and dashing success stories
along with some incredible
notes and tips from their
travelling routes (we cant
say journey, they are still
young) so far undertaken,
by our 50 MAHAYOUNG.
Our moto is to make it 150
MAHAYOUNG and publish
these stories into a book!
Since 2013 is the youth
year & the 150th birthday
of Swami Vivekanand,
that’s our target! To start
with, choosing 50 MAHAYOUNG was a tough
one, but we did it!
We are proud to have these
50 plus One MAHAYOUNG
– the Young Achievers of
Maharashtra, who have
made a difference in their
field of work. Enjoy it all
and get ready for more
from the MACCIA’s Young
Entrepreneurs’ Wing, coz
this is just the beginning…
It’s a new burst of entrepreneurial energy and fresh
doses of creativity and innovation to lift our economy out of its self-induced
stupor. After all, no society
around the world has been
able to progress without its
entrepreneurs taking the
lead to create new markets
and new jobs.
Lets empower the entrepreneurs within!
Founder, Composer and
Editor of MAHAYOUNG
Prof. Amrutha Joshi: Chairperson: Young Entrepreneurs’ Wing-MACCIA
Foreign Language Trainer,
Translator, Interpreter and
a Writer
P a g e
6
M a h a y o u n g
Maharashtra Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture (MACCIA) was founded in the year 1927
by the great visionary and industrialist Seth Walchand Hirachand. After its establishment in 1927, the
Chamber had the fortune to be nurtured by stalwarts and doyens of Indian industry
P a g e
Former President
Year
Former President
Year
Late Seth Walchand Hirachand
1927 - 38
Late Shri M. L. Dahanukar
1938-46
Late Shri W. W. Wagh
1950 - 51
Late Shri E. B. Rajderkar
1951-52
Late Shri K. H. Kabbur
1952 - 54
Late Shri B. D. Garware
1954-58
Late Shri K. H. Dhamdhere
1958 - 60
Late Shri Lalchand Hirachand
1960-64
Late Shri Ramkrishna Bajaj
1964 - 67
Late Shri S. M. Dahanukar
1967-68
Shri Deokisan Sarda
1968 - 69
Late Shri Bharat Gulabchand
1969-70
Shri Madhavrao Apte
1970 - 73
Late Shri Babubhai Rathi
1973-75
Late Shri J. G. Bodhe
1975 - 77
Late Shri B. M. Gogte
1977-79
Late Shri A. S. Kasliwal
1979 - 83
Shri Shashikant Garware
1983-85
Late
Shri
Dhamdhere
1985 - 87
Shri Arvind Doshi
1987-90
Shri Subhash Dandekar
1990 - 92
Shri Vasantrao Kulkarni
1992-94
Late Shri Aravind Kulkarni
1994 - 96
Late Shri Shivajirao Desai
1996
Shri Dilip Dandekar
1996 - 98
Shri Khushalchandra Poddar
1998-2000
Shri A.R. Anandpara
2000 - 2002
Shri Vikram Sarda
2002-2004
Shri E. K. Thakur
2004 - 2006
Shri Hemant Rathi
2006-2008
Smt Meenal Mohadikar
2008 - 2009
Shri Digvijay Kapadia
2009—2010
Mr. Mansingh Pawaar
2010 - 2011
Shri Ashish Pednekar
Current
Padmakar
7
Message from President…….
Ashish Pednekar,
President, MACCIA
It gives me immense pleasure to share my thoughts on this occasion of Launch of EMagazine & Web Page of our Young Entrepreneurs Wing. This is a maiden initiative by
MACCIA.
The idea behind this initiative is to empower youth in Maharashtra to be entrepreneurial
and lead in a dynamic global environment through a unique solutions.
Our Vision as an Apex Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Agriculture of the State is to facilitate progress in all sectors for sustainable prosperity through collaborative efforts,
knowledge based skills, modern technology and ethical means. I am confident that, the
Chamber’s Young Entrepreneur Wing shall play a pivotal role in supplementing & augmenting the efforts of our Young Entrepreneurs for facilitating the growth & development of Maharashtra.
Friends, as a President, this is a moment of triumph & joy for me to see the baton in the
hands of such talented & creative young leadership, which I am confident will yield far
reaching results for growth & development of the state.
Wish you all good luck & we look forward to your valued support in near future as well for
consensus building.
Dear Readers,
Throughout my diverse work experience of almost a decade, I've sought to bridging the cultural gap & to build a layered personal and professional network by getting a broad perspective from working in different industries, settings &people from different
continents. With knowledge of 22 foreign languages - I, primarily, am an independent translator, interpreter, teacher, corporate
trainer and a writer. On social front I've worked for various ngos and my passion for working for youth is something that got me
closer to MACCIA.
Being an entrepreneur myself, was always associated with chambers and when I was offered to head the youth’s wing, I thought
for a moment… am I really an entrepreneur?? Can a teacher, translator, a writer be an entrepreneur?? Well,yes now that I run a
business.. But the big question was how will I guide others?? Aah… I guess, being a teacher giving guidance is something I feel
uncomplicated.
But this position is not just about guidance, it’s a lot more than that… and without your support it is not going to be possible..
And friends, I am glad, that you all have shown such a great support towards our new beginning.
Entrepreneurship is definitely not about an individual, its all about how good you are at building a team that complements each
other’s skills. It’s the same equation for any organization.
So lets all come together and gather some knowledge, gain some contacts and support and grow together !!!
In Maharashtra as the winds of entrepreneurship have started to blow strongly, our generation is willing to take unconventional route and are ready to dive into the World of Business..
Here at MACCIA, we try to create a platform, a network for all budding as well as established entrepreneurs…
Welcome to the YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS’ WING of MACCIA.
- Prof. Amrutha Joshi Amdekar
Chairperson, Young Entrepreneurs’ Wing
MACCIA
Abhijit Avarsekar
the Infrastructure Personality!!!
When we started to think of having an Inspirer for the
Mahayoung Event and the Launch issue of Mahayoung
E-magazine, the first name that popped in our minds is
the Infrastructure Personality, the young and very dynamic Mr. Abhijit Avarsekar.
As you enter the office of Mr. Abhijit Avarsekar, you see
a young man sitting on his chair, in absolutely simple
attire, with an absolutely uncomplicated and calm
look… he smiles and welcomes you.. Well that’s Abhijit
Avarsekar for me..
Confident of his abilities, content with himself, someone who finds calm in chaos, unaffected by his surroundings, his family name or the trappings of his
charmed existence.
This second generation entrepreneur, Mr. Abhijit
Avarsekar joined the business in the year 1995 at the
age of 21 immediately after completing his Civil Engineering from the Father Agnel College, Navi Mumbai.
He took a liking to the EPC business of the group which
also had interests in Real Estate, Hotels and Building
Materials. After joining the business, Mr. Abhijit Avarsekar gradually learnt the various aspects of the business during his stints at the office and at project sites. During his
formative years he displayed his acumen as a strong administrator by playing a major role in changing the mindset of
the organisation from Ownership driven organisation into a professionally driven organisation.
Ambitious by nature, he felt that the potential and capabilities of the company were not utilized to the fullest and
chalked an ambitious growth plan for the business in 1998. He played a key role in the expansion of the EPC business
into newer geographies outside of Mumbai where the company was headquartered and gradually gave the business
a pan India presence. Abhijit could foresee the impending infrastructure boom in the country and spearheaded the
company's initiative to diversify into infrastructure construction from its traditional core competence of building construction. Today Unity has developed significant competencies in the transportation engineering, irrigation and water
segments of infrastructure and has executed numerous projects many of which are widely regarded to be landmarks.
An avid technology buff, Abhijit also ensured that the company kept abreast with the latest developments in the field
of technology. Be it the slip-form paver machine for roads or the technologically-advanced machines used for microtunneling, Unity has kept itself abreast with latest and upcoming technology. His encouragement towards computerization ensured that the Project sites and Head Office were seamlessly connected leading to effective monitoring of
the projects even at some distant locations. A successful IPO helped the company to be better recognized nationally
and created a platform for the company to embark on a scorching pace of growth in the coming years.
Since going public in 2006 the company has been able to grow almost four fold today and has grown by more than 20
times since Abhijit joined the business.
Economic Times has rated Unity Infraprojects Limited today is ranked as the 14th company nationwide in the construction
business.
Under his dynamic leadership the company has set its eyes on new verticals of growth mainly in the power, railways &
hydrocarbon sectors. Unity has earmarked on a strategy to cross the billion dollar turnover within the next 3 years. Unity's
project profile is rapidly undergoing a change as it pursues and bags big ticket, complex infrastructure projects across the
length and breadth of India & abroad.
Today most of his time goes in travelling scouting for growth opportunities. The company today has its active presence in
20 states of India as well as the bordering International countries of Nepal & Bangladesh.
What more.. His profile keeps changing every week, this man here has bagged numerous awards including the Infrastructure Personality for the year 2010 and the Young entrepreneur of the Year 2010 by Gill India Publication…
Aditi Limaye Kamat & Vishal Kamat
Here is a woman, a worker in every sense, who does a lot, but expresses very little. A realist, who does not care to
dream. She is one who did not plan for anything to happen in her life, who fell in love and got married when the time
was right to someone she and her family had known since long - with hotelier Vishal Vitthal Kamat. She is honest,
transparent, sincere and completely forthright. There is nothing she cares to hide and she speaks in a very direct
manner, with a very direct gaze, blinking her large and expressive eyes, much like a school girl.
Aditi says it was because of Vishal that she has opened up her line of restaurants. After marriage it would have been
easier option for any girl to join in husband’s well-established family business… but instead, Vishal insisted her on
venturing out her dream, “Vishal is silently strong, he made me realize, life has a purpose, that one can’t just fritter it
away. I am what I am today is because of him. It was he who recognized my strengths, the ability to apply myself.”
Says Aditi proudly about her dear hubby.
Academically strong Aditi, was also a winner at sports – games like throw-ball, running, short-putt, etc.. while under
graduating from Jai Hind, she started working at Gypsy Chinese and Gypsy Corner with her father, Restaurateur Rahul
Limaye.
After completing her Hotel Mgt Course from Sophia Polytechnic, Mumbai she took some experience at TAJ,Mumbai.
Later at Oberoi’s, she was working in Kitchen Department, where cutting about 20kgs of Onion, 15kilos of Ladyfingers, 25kilos of potatoes, which kind of wasn’t exactly what Aditi was looking at… so one fine day, she decided to try
out something new – and on her own credit managed to bag a job at Indigo Fusion Restaurant. This is the place
where she met Vishal.
Later she was approached by Zenzi restaurant, where she met her future work partners, who were also her good old
college friends. Out of which one friend Niketa Patil Sharma is now her partner at Home Chef a speciality restaurant
and the Cake Studio at Shivaji Park.
Cake Studio designs customized cakes, they specialize in designer cakes, wedding cakes and their cakes are rocking
the city at the moment.
Meanwhile, Mejwani Paripoorna happened to her, which gave her fame, won her awards, and also judged many
cookery shows all over Maharashtra. The last year’s MNS Khadyamahotsav witnessed her as the Chief Co-ordinator
for the whole event.
Ladh, jhagad, aage badh… that’s Vishal… adventurous enough to
try any new food joint, loves travelling and is another dynamic
personality of our Mahayoung. He very well knows to stir the pot
with carefully acquired culinary knowledge, happy to know that
his managerial and entrepreneurial skills are also appreciated.
It was his father, who started the dream, the famous ‘idlimeduwada-sambar joints’ called “Kamath’s”. But it was Vishal,
who spread the brand across India and made it, into a National
Food Chain. Orchids happened!, then VITS.. and Vishal started to work on many projects single handedly. The entire
JadhavGadh Project!
Jadhav Gadh is the only Maratha Gadh Resort in Maharashtra and India. There might be some in Rajasthan and the North
but this is the only Maratha Warrior’s Gadh transformed to a Heritage Resort, and the World’s First Museum Hotel.
He had seen his father grow, so the expectation grew on him.. he loves working under pressure, he loves to work with all
kinds of people. He says there are those pessimistic who always find something wrong – but they are good to improve
yourself, there are “the super praisers” from whom one needs to be careful as you wanna keep your feet on the ground,
and then there are some who make simple situations complicated. But he enjoys all the categories, such things do not
matter him. He does not pretend to know all, he loves good food immensely and as a food lover he has the ability to sit
with his cooks and chefs and patiently understands the subtle nuances.
The balance between aesthetic vision and commercial success is well managed by him. Converting the fort into a beautiful
resort – Jadhvgad.
In the restaurant domain, the company is well on its way to open 100 Vithal Kamat’s restaurants in the country. "Our target is to achieve 100 outlets across the country in the next three years under our brand Vithal Kamat’s," informs Kamat.
The company is also in the process of foraying into the standalone restaurant segment in malls and supermarkets. "We
plan to open these outlets as Vithal Kamat’s Super Snacks (VKSS) in various cities in the country. These outlets will be
based on a kiosk model," he adds.
We are sure that Vishal Kamat is the new food messiah of haute dining, and his zeal to go forward remains undiminished!
Both of them just complete each other – none of them are judgmental and there are no boundaries between them…
Avi Malik & Aneeta Malik
What can you say about a
boy growing up in a reputed
sports school in Haryana for
whom sports was where the
fun was...basketball, swimming and even theatre…, Later, being in the top three in
the NDA entrance, winning
the prestigious Presidents
Gold Medal and being chosen
for the IAF as a Fighter Pilot
came so naturally that it
seemed as if he was destined
to make the skies his home.
Avi Malik started his flying
with sailplanes at the age of
18yrs, was awarded “Best in
Flying trophy” in the National Defence Academy and won the prestigious “Aerobatics Trophy” in the Air Force Academy where he flew single engine trainer jets. As a top fighter pilot he flew several variants of the supersonic fighter
jets before he discovered a more natural form of flying which he thought went better with his nature.
Today, Avi is effectively the most qualified Instructor for Para Gliding in the country.
APPI International’s Instructor, Avi is a qualified and Certified Tandem Instructor, XC (Cross Country) Instructor and
SIV Instructor. His Para Gliding School - the Temple Pilots is one of the oldest and most popular in the country.
His 22 years of intense experience in aviation lends Temple Pilots a solid foundation and very high safety standards.
He is an EFR(Emergency First Responder) + First Aid Instructor, Certified by an International EFR Australian Company,
a mandatory for any paragliding Instructor and Advance Pilot.
He is also among the first in India to get their FAI (Federation Aeronotique Internationale) Paragliding Sporting License and also a Paramotoring Pilot and Instructor from Sky school, UK.
Avi is simply a flier, not just an aviator –“a flier at heart”. He is at home in the sky...and his love for flying comes
through to all his students with whom he shares it. His one burning passion is to get more and more people flying
with him and tasting the magic of perfection and oneness that he lives by.
He has participated in several International Competitions like the PWC’S and organised International Competitions
like the Himalayan Open in Bir/Billing in 2010 as the Meet Director. He was also the National Champion in 1996
where he won two trophies in the first ever Paragliding Festival held in India in Bilaspur.
He likes to keep his teaching simple and easy, and never lets anyone forget that flying is more than technique...it is
about finesse and the feeling of oneness with your glider...
No wonder his teachings inspired one of his early students so much that, she got smitten by the guy who taught her,
her Instructor- Avi......and they are flying together since then. Anita Deshpande Malik, the better half of Avi - was an
adventure enthusiast since her childhood, all thanks to her dad’s love for the good things of life. She had been active-
ly trekking in the Sahyadris from her toddler days and traveling the world with her shippy (Merchant Navy) dad. The traveling and adventure bug caught her rather early so the longing to fly the open skies came pretty naturally.
Anita has a background in advertising and pure marketing. Having done her MBA she abandoned her Corporate career as
a Senior Brand Manager for TATA Home Finance. No wonder she went on to create the coolest brand in the Adventure
and Tourism Industry in the country. Anita is the powerhouse behind the success of Temple Pilots as the top School and
Club in the South East Asia region.
Anita is also very passionate for environmental issues having also worked with NGO's like World Wide Fund For Nature.
She’s very vocal and active about it and has her own plans to do her bit for nature conservation.
Anita loves flying with friends and going on flying tours with her flying buddies and club pilots. This is her favourite way of
holidaying abroad.
Anita flies a Zulu, Gin glider which she is quite attached to and has flown different sites at Bali-Indonesia, Kamshet - Maharashtra and Vagamon and Munnar - Kerala. She was also the only woman pilot and Indian to fly at the Third International
Flying Festival at Vagamon, Kerala. She is now looking forward to taking her flying to the next level and fly more exotic
locations in India and around the world.
Experiencing the beauty and feel of the mountains, different destinations, the charming simplicity of its people and the
variety of cultures is as important to her as flying.
She is a complete person, full of life, love and laughter. She’s a true global citizen in her outlook and very Indian in her
values.
Her strengths are her communication skills, customer relations and motivating people to fly, to discover themselves
through this fascinating and liberating sport.
Today, Kamshet is the hub of paragliding in India and is proudly present on the paragliding world map.
But it was - Adventurer Avi, who founded Kamshet in Maharashtra as the ideal site for training and flying to promote the
sport of Paragliding in India. He named the first site he discovered after the friendly farmer Shelar he first met there.
Shelar kaka fondly remembers him to be the first to fly in Kamshet. And we are sure that whoever flies with you all also
fondly remember you!!!
We are proud of you Avi and Anita!!!
Aashutosh Katre
Many of you might remember seeing him on screen, on
stage, or may be hearing his voice- well but he is not an actor by profession, this is just something that he did as a kid.
Ashutosh was introduced to the medium of Theatre at the
age of 14. He plunged in to professional Marathi Theatre
and acted in over 150 shows of Pu. La. Deshpande’s play ‘Asa Mi Asa Mi’. He received the Natyadarpan Award for
Best Child Artist for the year 1997. He also did some TV serials and also portrayed the character of Bhimrao Ambedkar
in an NFDC film directed by Dr. Jabbar Patel on the life of Dr.
Babasaheb Ambedkar. He has also dabbled with Voicing and
Dubbing for TV Commercials and Movies like the Harry
Potter series.
Today Ashutosh Katre is a successful entrepreneur, is a Managing Partner at Creative Workshop - Advertising Agency –
“The thrill of conceptualizing, creating and developing something from scratch has always captivated me. These interests
helped me carve out my career as an entrepreneur. The journey has just begun.” says Ashutosh, who has in the past,
started a speciality restaurant and worked in the field of event management.
This young man here has the power to dream and the gumption to create it! His speciality restaurant - The Rice Boat was a speciality fine-dine restaurant serving authentic Kerala cuisine. The concept was received with great enthusiasm by patrons and food lovers.
At Warlock Entertainment Services – an Event Management company - he worked as a Senior Executive in the Events
division. Wherein he handled responsibilities like conceptualising events, planning and execution. There, he worked
on a variety of events such as Road shows, Promotions, Corporate events, HNI private parties, Celebrity concerts,
etc., handled accounts like Orange, Streax, Bilag Industries, Reliance Industries Ltd. etc.
Although his father is one of the Managing Partners of Creative Workshop, it was never assumed that Ashutosh
would join him and take over the reins of the advertising agency. “I was never treated as a partner’s son and his natural successor. Rather, I was treated as a bright, enthusiastic youngster with no special privileges whatsoever. This
attitude started with my father and I will always be thankful for that.” says Ashutosh.
When he joined Creative Workshop six years ago, the agency had been in existence for over three decades. It had
been carefully nurtured by the Managing Partners into a strong and stable business. He stepped into the business
with a clear focus on taking it through to the next phase of growth. However, before he could implement his ideas,
he went through an extensive ‘training’ period. He sat through client interactions, internal team meetings and discussions and even spent time with their suppliers and vendors as they executed ‘jobs’. “We had a richly experienced
team and I picked up the finer, practical aspects of our business from them. It was the time when I got hands-on with
every aspect of the business.” adds Ashutosh. A simultaneous post-graduate course in advertising and marketing
helped him connect the learning in the classroom to the on-the-job real time situations and application.
After a couple of years of keen observation and learning, it was time to build on what he had absorbed and to explore
new areas for growth. That meant exploring new technologies, learning new skills and adapting existing business models
to suit the changing times. At each stage, he was encouraged to contribute and thanks to his prior varied experience in
running a restaurant business and event management Ashutosh could handle it.
One of the biggest challenges he has faced during his transition period was preparing the agency for change. “While
change is the only constant (especially in a dynamic field such as advertising) it is also one of the most difficult things to
accept.” We needed to bring about significant internal changes in order to spread our wings. I had to make a brutally honest assessment of where we stood and how far we were from where we would want to be. The changes foreseen required
our people to step out of their comfort zone. I initiated the process by drawing up a roadmap for change, after extensive
and exhaustive discussions with my business partners. I then worked on getting the rest of the team on-board. By involving them in the process (and not ordering it), I gradually gathered support and cooperation for a modified operational
model. The team was expanded to infuse fresh blood in the agency. Today we have an excellent balance of youth and experience in the team. We have nurtured a culture of collective effort and continuous learning from fellow team members.
We have set out with a goal to widen the horizon for Creative Workshop as an agency of repute and create work that creates waves.”
Recently Ashutosh has started a new venture - ‘Yellow Seed’ - a Content Development Company. They ideate and develop
content of varied nature such as creative copy, tag lines, website content, SEO copy, articles, blogs, reports, training manuals and scripts.
“The world of content is vast and ever evolving. With changing consumer demands and consumption of new age media,
your content can no longer just remain content. It has to be relevant. It has to inspire. It needs to engage. At Yellow Seed,
we believe in the power of ideas and relevant content that simply connects!”says Ashustosh. As a Director, Planning &
Business Development, he is involved in looking at the micro and macro aspects of the business, strategy and ensuring
delivery while maintaining efficacy.
“Acceptance from existing clients was also not a given. For the last four decades the agency has always maintained extremely high standards and I am expected to only better the same. However, through continued interactions with them,
our clients gradually developed confidence in my skills and abilities to now be the face of the agency.”
Over a cup of coffee with Ashustosh one discovers that this young man here is full of vibrancy, ideas and enthusiasm. Super focused, academically strong, dedicated to his ideals and his impeccable honesty will mesmerize you…
We are proud of you Aashutosh...
Doctor with a magical voice
Dr. Rahul Joshi
Here we have a handsome young man, who was Citadel Mr. Pune Runner up and Mr. Pune Talent 2004. But that is
not his introduction, here is a Homeopathic Doctor, who is a trained professional singer, who has done his Masters in
Classical Music, has topped Mumbai University Twice in music , is a Sangeet Visharad and is a Performer and to top it all
an amazing Human Being.
One finds Dr. Rahul Joshi early in the morning dressed in a business suit and a pleasant smile, that will cure all your illnesses. He strongly believes that, “music is an art form that was developed over the ages to propitiate the Gods and Goddesses, and music reaches us, each one of us and touches our heart and soul.” Rightly said, and Dr. Rahul’s music does touch
your heart.
Dr. Joshi is an honorary lecturer at CMP Homeopathic Medical College, is attached with various hospitals, he runs his homeopathic clinic in Walkeshwar, is an associate faculty with Symbiosis and many other institutions.
Dr. Rahul conducts a unique workshop called “music clinic’. Though he replies, “music clinic is a complex concept, not my
own”, but he has developed and conceptualized it into a wonderful program, which heals you completely.
Music clinic is not a program he mentions, it’s a workshop for every individual to help live a stress-free and productive life
by unwinding through music”
The workshop involves raga singing, meditation, introspection and inspires creativity through out-of-the-box thinking.
Further Dr. Rahul adds, that “most of the diseases today are psycho-somatic in nature, music helps people with such complaints feel better. Music reaches that part of the brain where the surgeon’s knife cannot, and so we find that patient’s in
coma and autistic children respond to music and music therapy.”
What Dr. Rahul id doing today, is with utmost passion and love towards his work. The result, we all can see, the unique
workshop.
He wishes to reach out to more people with different ethnicities through his workshops. His vision is to create a happy,
healthy, ambitious, creative and expressive society with music.
We wish Dr. Rahul Joshi all the very best and we wish that may his dream come true for the betterment of our society!!!
Dr. Joshi, you makes us all proud!!!
Aditya Pendse
“Architecture to me is a perfect marriage of Art and
Engineering.” says Aditya Pendse, a voracious reader,
a manga and anime fan and an archoholic to the core.
There are so many venues in this vocation that people
from multiple disciplines all blend in rather nicely.
Some choose to be more creative and explore the
artistic side of architecture, while others are more
detail oriented and focus on actual construction side.
He finds himself fit rather equally on both aspects. Aditya used to practice the constraint based
design methodology in India, especially in Mumbai
where even a single square foot of area wasted was
considered blasphemy. But after working in USA for
more than 6 years at TVS design, he was exposed to
genuine creativity wherein you don't really have a set
formula, but you adhere to holistic principles that generate the design. In addition to this was his foray into
the field of Parametric Design which is currently at the
fore-front of architectural design innovation in the
world today. Using latest design tools and ability to
write small data scripts one can actually create architecture that can be controlled via a set of parameters
leading to endless design permutations and combinations.
All of this started with the design of Dubai Towers Dubai, an iconic landmark project that contained 4 towers that
were inspired from a flickering candle flame. Adjusting the design of such an elegant form involved several man hours
of drafting work. “To address this situation we used Bentley's Generative Components (GC) software to generate the
tower on the basis of set guidelines and parameters, which could then be adjusted to vary the overall design of the
structure. Although the project never got built, it gave me the knowledge and understanding of how math and architectural design principles can be combined to create unique architecture.” says Aditya in an absolute positive spirit.
He further adds, “I got to apply this knowledge successfully in TVS design's next significant project, the Music City
Center which has a wavy roof inspired from the rolling hills in the landscape of Tennessee state. Here we used GC to
convert what was a 3D form into an actual building. The project was selected as one of the 3 finalists in the Bentley
Awards 2011 ceremony under the generative design category. I took great pleasure in going to Amsterdam for the
event and showcasing the project to the judges.”
When asked, why did he think of moving back from US to India to his family business?? He says, “its very simple, as
far as moving from US job to family business it was primarily to introduce the Indian market with latest technology &
design expertise. If you compare with global architecture scenario, the Indian construction methodologies are still
almost a decade or more behind. There are several reasons to it, be it cheaper labor, high cost of metal, monsoon
climate, but nevertheless there is a growing desire from clients to bring in innovation. My goal is to successfully practice the generative design methodology in India. These buildings which are iconic and on the cutting edge of technology do come at a significantly higher cost... On several of my prior visits to India there were clients who were really
interested in the type of projects we had done at TVS design but could not justify the added cost. So the main challenge for me is to bring in a balance between design and cost. It is only when you stay in a particular market do you
understand its intricacies, hence joining the family business allowed me to understand the client motivations in India.”
Lastly he adds, “even US based firms need individuals who they have worked with and can trust in the local Indian market. This became the 3rd reason for me to shift my operations to India so that we can collaboratively work on large scale
projects.”
Aditya has been a gold medalist and always a topper at school and college. He will delight you with his mannerisms and he
seems to be filled with “ink”… his architectural talks and essays are punctuated with art that only an art lover can dig out…
Keep up the good work Aditya, wishing you all the very best for your architectural ventures…
Design Thinking
for transformational
teams.
UserINNOV provides design consulting services to transformational teams for
developing new products and services which allow them to create sustainable
value for individuals, communities and the environment by leveraging empathy,
creativity and cooperation.
If you are curious, yet hesitant to know more, the best way to get a sense of how we work without
making a commitment is to invite us to discuss your problem and prepare a project brief. We have
been told that the 1 hour meeting is fun and transforms the perception and understanding of the problem.
Call or e-mail or skype with Soumitra at +919619921491, [email protected] or
skype:soumitrabhat
Gorakh Sirsikar
Co-Founder, CREATIVITY PLEASE, India/France ; An online design studio Creativity Please was co-founded by two
brothers to provide cloud based services to the MSME sector, focused on Education and Non-Profit Sectors. Today
they have clients in India and France and they vary from prominent individuals like politicians, family websites to
companies and organizations with tens of thousands of users.
Their company is still young and they are growing with increasing confidence of their clients in their ability to ensure
an unparalleled online existence for their products, services, organizations and, at times, even themselves.
They don't believe in providing necessarily complicated and unnecessarily feature filled solutions. Instead they believe in providing for a higher ROI on our clients' IT investments and putting the Internet to use for all those who
dread to wander out by themselves.
“Internet is a beautifully evolved medium and we believe that each one of us can benefit from it in one way or the
other, our job is to make it useful for all us.” says Gorakh, who is also the Director, THE NICKELWALA GROUP, India/
France— “We started with a modest investment of Rs. 1 lakh ($2000) and in just about 30 years, we’re a multi-million
dollar group, with various projects under this umbrella, from core manufacturing to web services and recycling to
carbon trading. Led by a “Life Time Achievement” award winning entrepreneur, our people, in every team since inception, have been a proud asset of the group. We value human capital over and above any other asset of ours and
hence focus on their development the most. We equally value the contribution of our clients, suppliers, vendors and
most importantly our financers, without whom our journey would’ve been and will be unimaginable.”
Gorakh a graduate with distinction in Industrial Engineering, is also an MBA Finance from HEC School of Management Paris, France and MDP Finance from Ministry of Small Industries, Govt. of India. He has been awarded HEC for Excellence
scholarship, he has also studied French Language at the University of Paris-Sorbonne.
He has some more certificates like Dipl in Advertising & Marketing Communications from Shell Advtsg India.
In his pastime, he loves volunteering and helping others… and some of his volunteered work includes: Maharashtra Mandal France, Paris FRANCE - Founding Core Member, Indian Professional Association, Paris FRANCE - Member, MIDC Industries Association, Nagpur INDIA - Member
With good education, right focus and amazing passion to work—Gorakh is all set to achieve new heights.
We wish him all the very best…
The Toy Bank Girl
Shweta Chari
the Social Entrepreneur
Shweta Chari, an Electronics Engineer and the founder /CEO of Toybank had a vision of reaching out to children through fun and play
using toys. The journey began on August 15th, 2004. A small idea that started in a small restaurant in Bombay has over the years
gathered momentum with the help and support of friends and volunteers from all corners of Bombay.
Within a shortest span of time and very minimal resources, Toybank is bringing smiles on thousands of deprived faces. Toybank acts
as a leveler of the society by taking toys from those that can give and distributing them to the ones in need.
In a way Toybank attempts to prove the belief of John.F.Kennedy, ‘If the free society cannot help the many that are poor, it can never
save the few who are rich.’ Toybank honestly dreams to place a toy in the hands of every poor child of India and the world. The toy
shapes the psyche of the children, so utmost care is taken to give only unbiased and morally correct toys to children. Toybank does
not take Barbie dolls; toy guns; violent toys or any other toy that discriminates. As through the years, toys were collected, segregated
and gift-wrapped and then gifted on a one-on-one basis to the kids from all over Bombay, Shweta soon realized that the beneficiaries
of toys were impacted much beyond her expectation. The children began to recognize that play was one of their core rights. They also
began expressing themselves better and were more in tune with their lives and circumstances. Shweta felt the need to expand and
reach out to many more children in India. With the help of volunteers Toybank also started monitoring the children that were impacted through the Toybank activities. The events became more intense with more focus given to value education to the children while
during the toy distributions. Toybank now also runs in Hyderabad, Bangalore, Pune and Delhi and even Bhutan with the support from
core Toybankers. Shweta is a go-getter. She is a self-driven individual and is passionate about everything she does in her life. She handles Toybank’s core strategies, ideates on new concepts to expand Toybank. She also goes full throttle into raising toys and funds for
Toybank. She has been featured on the cover page of India Today magazine as one of the bright Social Entrepreneurs in India and also
Toybank’s work was documented by UK’s National Television Channel 4 on a special series called the ‘Slumdog Secret Millionaire’
program in January 2010. Shweta has also been invited as a speaker at the prestigious TEDx Gateway held in Bombay in October
2010. In January of 2011, she was conferred the ‘Star Social Entrepreneur’ award at the Indira International Innovation Summit in
Pune.
Devika Patkar
Looking at this pic, makes you think, this is gonna be an
interview of a model or an actress.. Well no, this is an article of an extremely fashionable entrepreneur, who also
helps others to build their image...
Fashion, I would say is her middle name. Nowadays it's a
pity to see the number of fashion schools mushrooming
up in every corner of the society. Though she says that
she is very happy that our society is becoming this fashion
conscious.
What's a fashion designer? Is it just about taking five and
a half meters of fabric and putting laces on each end and a
few sequenced flowers on the fabric.
Well, Devika tells us that there’s far more than that – “A
designer has to do much more than that. A designer
needs to have a vision of his/her own, designer should be
able to “dream their design and then design their dreams”
Devika Patkar comes from a highly influential family of South Mumbai, but she never ever thought of depending on
her parents, she always wanted to do something of her own.. and here she is designing her dreams!!!
She has always had a fascination for colours. Even when she was not a designer, it was always about getting dressed
with the right combinations and seeing to it that nothing clashed.
It was only in 2001, that she realised what profession she wanted to get in to. Alongside graduation she finished her
fashion school, and went on to pursue her masters.
Going for Manish Malhotra’s shows mesmerised her. “A man, who started off with just three tailors and no backing,
today holds a firm of international standard. Every designer has their expertise in designing. Manish malhotra loves
playing with pastel colours, Abu jani Sandeep khosla rule chickankaari whereas jj vallaya masters zardozi lehengas
and so on.”
Wow.. she knows the ABC of fashion industry..
Having said so, her journey begun by designing for family and friends-(ME-being her client myselves) she further
says, “by the grace of god I got good ‘kaarigars’ embroidery workers who till date work with some of the biggest
names of the fashion industry.”
The confidence was gained when within three months of her designing journey she had her first exhibition and was
sold out.
After two years of designing only salwaar kameezes she decided to venture into sarees, since then there was no looking back, western outfits, to designer handbags and clutches, to accessories to everything fashion!!! *she herself has a
huge collection of bags and shoes-a wide range of over 500 bags and around 150 shoes+
“I have always been a person who has never wanted to be like everyone around me, I always like being different. I
BELIEVE IN MAKING MY OWN STYLE STATEMENT and I wanted my work to speak volumes for itself. It was a risk. But
a risk I was willing to take.”
Most of her clientele, today, is based in the UK, US, & South Africa and range from a variety of prominent personalities and socialites in India.
She specialises in cut work sarees with intricate embroidery and sarees embellished with Swarovski crystals which takes
weeks together to finish. “Crystals are my forte. Sarees with detachable belts, so that the belts can be carried off on simple chiffon sarees or even a chic dress.”
She is also well known for her contrast of colours where she twirls her sarees in twelve colours and blends it in a simple
classic blouse.
Back in the days, She has designed for Shiamak Davar’s Summer Funk.
She partners in a huge fashion house by the name of “commonwealth fashion” - they supply to most of the malls in the
country, like Shoppers Stop, their labels are Eliza Donnaten and Stop. In the first year itself her company backed the award
for THE BEST VENDOR for western clothing which is a huge achievement.
Today her company also supplies to Hyper City and Mom & Me; and have recently started supplying to the very popular
fashion shopping site - jabong.com, under the name Miss Bennett, Lara Karen and Milli Fleur.
For 2013, this designer has huge plans – her first flagship store at a prime location of nariman point which is a dream come
true for her as it would be for any. One will find a huge collection of Swarovski clutches, handbags, dresses, salwaar
kameezes, kurtis, sarees and everything a woman would love to possess and she is glad that she sees her dream coming
true each day since the year has started…
Very fashionably inspiring I would say…
Devika – we are proud of you!!!
Manasi Ganpule Ranade
This woman here works on Architecture, Writing and Blogging about art, food, life and everything beautiful and
teaching the subject of Architecture, and she also runs her own Catering services in US. To someone that may sound
like a jargon, but translated that means she is involved in with a lot of dedication. That’s Manasi Ganpule Ranade.
“Achievement is quite subjective superlative. The magnitude and volume don't bother me.I have always cherished
the process to achieve than actual accomplishment.”
While studying architecture, she was fascinated with arbitration and decided to serve a term of internship with one
of the ace construction arbitrators of our time Dr.Kirty Dave. The fraternity of architects (wanna be and already)
mocked, but she pursued her dream. Perhaps, not prudent, but the experience made her a little wiser than before.
Masters in construction management seemed like the most obvious thing after that. She drifted away from hardcore
design and scale to enter the management of mega projects. The grandeur that seemed so lifeless on those elephant
size ammonia prints came to life. The gold medal at the end of it or a special mention from the maestro Ar.B.V Doshi
for her work and integrity was overwhelming!
At the age of 25, her HOD asked her to join as the co-ordinator for the course and promised to mentor her for the
future. She instead chose to teach! She managed to work with her father during the week to gain geo-tech experience and taught over the weekends to fulfill her inner soul. After working on various projects as a design coordinator, it was time to tie the knot :) Post marriage, she had to move to US.
Life overseas is dream for millions. The question is discovering the myriad facets of the real American dream. Though
living one isn't easy. She has always believed in enjoying every moment and making the most of each tiny opportunity that comes her way. She wanted to literally take a break from the college-office-gym routine and dedicated her
time to family. While learning new recipes, she began food blogging-365 days v/s all recipes in a cook book (similar to
julie and julia)! It's actually a race against time, but was super fun!
“Life for spouses with non-work visa is tough. I was fortunate to have a work visa but sadly software and banking were the
only two progressive industries there. Finding a niche was difficult.”
She kept herself busy with pottery and carpentry along with yoga. But, that did not keep a workaholic busy enough!
She began to research on alternative fields and realized that catering for authentic Maharashtrian food was rare in US.
Many friends complained about it. After discussing with friends and well-wishers she commenced her home-run "Bombay
Post" serving healthy and tasty maharashtrian delicacies. Believe it or not but she managed to bag some regulars! Sending
samplers to various offices, asking friends to circulate e-mails and hand bills, follow-up, dealing with complaints, cooking,
shopping, budgeting, pricing, packaging and on time delivery - she managed to do it all!
“My husband has been a moral support and this venture belongs to both of us”-says Manasi
When asked what if you were in India, would you have thought anything aprt from Architecture? - “Could I have ever imagined this when in India? Naah,I barely made one karanji on my own then, but circumstances taught me to make 350
well! We made decent business and are growing as a company.
Manasi we are proud of you!!!
Calling All Connoisseurs
Get ready to take your dining experience a notch higher!
Mumbai, August 2012: GourmetItUp.com is a web portal that gives food aficionados access to exclusive dining experiences at top
restaurants in Mumbai. By signing up, members will get a chance to enjoy exquisitely designed gourmet experiences that Mumbai's
fine dining restaurants have to offer.
Members can choose from a variety of experiences on the Gourmet It Up website or just call the Gourmet It Up concierge service
(9619551387) to get recommendations. Experiences range from off-menu & bespoke set meals to wine & grappa tastings to masterclasses, chef’s tables & mixology sessions, ensuring a plethora of options for both casual diners and passionate foodies. All you
have to do is call up Gourmet It Up concierge, and they will be happy to set you up with a table for an exclusive experience.
Stand alone restaurants like Busaba, Cafe Zoe, Vinoteca, The Table, Koh, The Tasting Room, Lagerbay, Neel & Olive Bar and Kitchen
as well as hotels like The Oberoi & Sahara Star amongst others have partnered with Gourmet It Up and created unique experiences
that go above and beyond a regular meal or a night out.
“Gourmet It Up aims to be an all around yield management solution for restaurants as well as a dependable resource and concierge
service for consumers”, says Kunal Jain, co-founder of Enthrall Media and partner at Gourmet It Up.
Co-founder of Enthrall Media and partner at Gourmet It Up, Deepa Jain has run Recipemobile, a food blog and gourmet gifting company in the past. Deepa’s extensive experience and expertise in the food industry coupled with Kunal’s strong background in technology and consumer marketing drive Gourmet It Up to a whole new avenue of exclusive gourmet experiences.
Gourmet It Up appeals to high income foodies who are experimental and want more from a dining experience than just the ordinary. The membership is open to all and registration is a must to view the experiences.
On what makes the website unique, Deepa says “Gourmet It Up works with the top restaurants to design special experiences that
highlight the best aspects of our partners and provide more than just a meal.”
Mumbai’s foodies have something exciting to look forward to with Gourmet It Up’s exclusive and exciting options, guaranteed to
turn any meal into an unforgettable experience.
Amit Ajgaonkar
the king of good times in the making...
Is Graduate from Mumbai University. An enterprising youngster who has started career as a Marketing executive in a leading tele communication company in the UK and later took a transfer to India. He was offered a better opportunity by
Mahindra Gesco where he proved himself and was awarded the best employee of the year award.
He then was absorbed by Indage Hotels ltd as a Marketing Manager where he worked for three years and had a very big
hand in the growth of the organisation. He was an active member in creating some land mark outlets in India such as Prive
(Mumbai), Tetsuma (Mumbai), Athena (Bangalore), IVY Wine bar and Cafe (Mumbai, Pune & Nashik), Tiger Hill wine resort
(Nashik). Looking at his performance in the Hotel division the Management of the Indage Group promoted him as the Vice
President Sales & Marketing for the even bigger Wine Division where he proved himself by giving them a growth of 21
percent in just one financial year.
His great understanding of the Wine and Restaurant Market in India and the urge to have his own brand made him get
together with the other two directors to form Dios Corp India pvt ltd. They here tend to create a magical experience for
their customers in the form of wines, non alcoholic beverages, wine cafes, sports cafes. At Dios Corp India pvt ltd they also
intend to manufacture and market international standard alcoholic beverages and wines.
An engineer by education and profession but his heart is somewhere else… Events !!! completely into events, media and entertainment.
Coming from an highly educated family, he has been academically a strong student, right from schools days. And as an engineer
he keeps striving to prove as an asset to his work and organization.
“Well venturing into events, it was the need to create a self identity that led me to start up with a cultural group Third Bell Entertainment.”
Today he is a professional director, anchor, celebrity interviewer, writer, model coordinator and an event organiser.
Swapnil adds, “I began my journey in the entertainment industry by anchoring the shows. There have been some well known
names in the industry who have mentored and helped me grow.”
From anchor to an interviewer and from director to a complete event organizer, he has had a very amazing journey with experiences. Swapnil has won many awards from various organizations, including the Yuva Samman Puraskar of 2010 by Shiv Sena.
Swapnil Raste adds, “Of course I must appreciate and applaud for my audiences who have been so supportive and wonderful for
each show. Their selfless support encourages me to keep coming up with better events.”
Preeti Mazumdar
Chocokates!!!
After having spent 10 successful years in the Banking Financial Service Industry and customer service industry, she
decided to move to a completely different field. Different but not unknown… a field to follow her passion for baking
and chocolate making!
Preeti Mazumdar, a loving wife, a caring mother to a sweet little daughter, who loved cooking – thought of exceeding
her limits and launched her brand Chocokates!
To equip herself she learnt chocolate making and baking from Sophia Polytechnic and Khadi Gram Udyog. …
She has done corporate events and manufactured chocolates and confectioneries from home, her clients being –
from friends, family to corporates.
Recently she has taken the next logical step and set up her own unit at Gorai Borivili, her chocholate, pastery and
snacks joint named – Chocokates!
“My goal is to provide quality product at honest prices and a sincere desire to please my customer’s taste buds!”
In an age where there are dime a dozen home bakers, chocolatiers and cake shops.. she wishes to create a difference
and that she does by providing quality and flavor.
For her, it was an uphill task to convince friends and family about her skills but with a lot of support and my perseverance it seemed like a smooth sail.
Preeti says, “There is something magical about seeing a smile on the face of a little kid when she receives a chocolate
or seeing the glee of a family deciding on their cake to celebrate their togetherness. My dream has enabled me to
create memories which will bring on a smile on their faces! And when I see that smile I feel I have achieved my dream…”
Finding something you love and you never have to work a day!
“Each morning it’s a thrill to wake up and make goodies from the scratch. My best guides have been my customers who
have challenged me time and again with special requests. My motto of giving quality products to customer not just pretty
looking but “preeti looking” and great tasting has given me a big list of dedicated customers who keep coming back with
new requests and thus giving me an opportunity to do something new each day! Our customer service motto has been to
make every experience whether a customer buying a small piece of chocolate to someone who wants their wedding cake,
to be something different and beautiful!”
To ensure she keeps upbeat with her skills she also conducts training in chocolate making and baking. Training is extremely gratifying as you can see a legacy and love for food being passed on to many more...
When asked “are you not worried about competition??” she replies impromptu, “well no cause I can either be a big fish in
a small pond or a small fish in a big pond. The pond is filled with many potential creative and efficient chefs and bakers
and there is always opportunity to learn. My way of meeting the competition is to keep consistency in delivery and enhancing skills with what is happening in the market.”
Working with sugar paste, cream and chocolate is like a potter working on a lump of mud. Giving it shape colour and life
like looks makes the whole cake making experience wonderful and animated.
Looking ahead she plans to open a chain of our stores, build processes which can be duplicated with ease into other units
… Wow!! Preeti we are sure you have a long way to go and you will achieve your goals… all the best and yes Preeti we are
proud of you!!!
Shilpa and Sameer Balvally
SHILPA JAIN BALVALLY, M. Arch (USA), LEED A.P.
As a childhood dream of becoming a doctor,
Architecture grew onto Shilpa slowly and she
found a niche for herself combining the two interests. She slowly discovered the designer and
manager in herself.
Graduated from Academy of Architecture
(Mumbai) in 2001.Shilpa pursued Masters in
Architecture and further specialized in
Healthcare Designs and Systems at the Texas
A&M University.
With an interest in sustainability which is a growing concern in today’s world in the context of global warming, she sought the
USGBC LEED accreditation.
Shilpa’s keen interest in healthcare design was honed by working at some very reputed firms in Boston and Houston.
Her dynamic and outgoing persona has been a key factor being a partner at Studio osmosis and Public and Staff relations for the
firm come naturally to her. As a partner her strengths lie in Management as well as Design process and Methodology for the projects.
Coming from a Marwadi family with a strong tradition of a family business culture, it was a bold step for Shilpa to take a decision
to pursue Masters of architecture abroad, achieve work experience there and then initiate Studio osmosis as an independent endeavour with Sameer after moving back to India.
Shilpa is a globetrotter bitten by the travel bug and always planning the next big adventure; be it a weekend getaway or a long
excursion. Her motto has always been that unwinding from work on these excursions helps a creative mind breed newer ideas.
And it certainly has worked for us at Studio Osmosis.
SAMEER BALVALLY, M. Arch (USA), LEED A.P.
Coming from a working class family, it was commendable for the only son Sameer to go abroad to study his maters of Architecture
after graduating from Academy of Architecture, Mumbai in 2001.
Sameer always dreamt of being an Architect since he understood the meaning of the profession. Even more commendable was
returning to India with the intention of starting his own entrepreneurial venture with his wife and best friend.
Sameer worked at various reputed firms both in India and abroad gaining insightful and valuable experience. He has always been
a dreamer with an eye for detailing and understanding of materials, which in turn helps churn the concepts into reality. This has
been his forte thus being the Design and Project in charge at the various firms he worked and eventually became his major
strengths while setting up Studio Osmosis and expanding it over the years. He takes the projects from the drawing boards and
converts them into a reality meeting all the client expectations.
Sameer is passionate about movies, music, bikes and he’s keen on cycling around the city just like he did in the US. He loves to
capture people, places, outdoors and randomness in his photography frames.
Upon moving to India, Sameer and Shilpa gained valuable experience at Niteen Parulekar Architects, Pvt. Ltd.(NPAPL), where they
enriched and applied their knowledge and experience while working on numerous Architectural and Interior Design projects within varying sectors of Hospitality, Healthcare, Residential, Commercial, Research, Recreational and Master Planning projects. The
projects had been in different phases, and varied scales honing the knowledge bank further.
STUDIO OSMOSIS, THE CONCEPTION
Being in the design and construction Industry for close to 1.5 decade, In January 2010, Sameer and Shilpa founded Studio
Osmosis in January 2010 on the premise of transforming the quality of lifestyle by sensitively working with the client
through a medium of design and dialogue. Studio Osmosis believes in absorbing the individual needs of the client, working
cohesively on the design and collaboratively arriving at a solution which is not only creative but also tangible and sustainable. All designs at the Studio are based on research and experimentation with adaptability as the key factor.
While Studio Osmosis has a contemporary and flexible approach towards design and technology, we derive inspiration from
various walks of life, art, culture, history and people. It is a Studio where young minds work together; ideas are born, nurtured and streamlined to offer the perfect service and a superior product to the client. It is a firm where professionals enjoy
what they do; building relationships.
Both their designs and creativity are influenced by the environment and the built fabric in the various places they have travelled and observed over the years.
Studio Osmosis is currently working on numerous architecture, interior design and master planning projects. We have
worked on various Hospitality, Commercial, Residential, healthcare projects in various Indian cities as well as abroad.
Rohit Paranjpye
An engineer by profession, having done a B.E. from Mumbai University. Post engineering,
he decided to setup a company called Essence in 2008, along with 3 partners, that operated in the Organizational Development (OD) & Training industry.
Under Essence, they were responsible for change management and training for MNCs and
also setup a network of life coaches for personal training across India. While at Essence,
Rohit simultaneously pursued a diploma in business and start-up management from S.P.
Jain Institute of Management & Research. In 2010, Rohit decided to move out of Essence
and started out something of his own.
“I setup Mobie Infotainment which is an in-travel entertainment company. Mobie was the
first company in India to launch tablet PC based in-cab infotainment systems and we continue to power over 1,000 cabs in Mumbai and 500 buses pan India.”
In January of 2013, he merged Mobie with Digitainment India, a digital entertainment & media company and currently, the focus is
to make Digitainment the largest video content discovery platform in South Asia.
Company Profile:
Digitainment India is the largest video content aggregation and distribution platform in India. Digitainment boasts of exclusive digital content rights from major Bollywood labels including Eros International, Reliance Entertainment, Percept and Moser
Baer to name a few. In addition to this, Digitainment also aggregates Games, E-books and Regional video content. Digitainment is
responsible for most of the video content distribution in the industry and major business verticals include:
Device pre-loads (Content pre-loaded on mobile devices on purchase)
Content Services (Content available to a user for streaming and download via Mobile Apps and Internet)
Retail Distribution (Digital content available at retail stores via facilitated discovery through our proprietary application, which can
be transferred on to SD cards / USB drives / mobile devices)
In-travel Infotainment (Content available for consumption in cabs, buses and other travel services)
Amit Joshi
This young man from poona plays tablaa, drums and many more instruments.. His specialty being—playing tablaa
with one hand and drums with the other. He finds “shanti” at his own studio ‘Cosmic Beats’.
He is Tabla disciple of USTAAD ALLARKHA KHANSAHEB and USTAAD ZAKIR HUSSAIN. ( Punjab Gharana ) for Drums
disciple of TAUFIQ QURESHI. He is a Spiritual follower of H.H. SRI SRI RAVISHANKARJI founder of THE ART OF LIVING
and a Vocal disciple of SMT. JAYMALABAI SHILEDAR.
His marvelously proficient in TABLA , DRUMS and PERCUSSIONS.
Gives performances ranging from styles of INDIAN CLASSICAL, LIGHT, FOLK, WESTERN and INSTRUMENTAL as well as
FUSION (WORLD MUSIC.)
He has accompanied performances with—Pt. Appasaheb Jalgaonkar, Ustaad Zakir Hussain, With leading dancers like
Sau. Manisha Sathe. Shri. Upendra Sahasrabuddhe, Shrimati Jaymalabai Shiledar.
He also has performed in front of the legendry trio—Lata Mangeskarji , Asha Bhosaleji and Usha Mangeshkarji. As the
Mangeshkars hoisting the concert.
Hrishikesh Ranade, Prajakta Joshi- Ranade, Madhura Datar, Savanee Ravindra, Vishwajeet Borwankar, Shankar Mahadevan, Ghazal with Deepshikha and Rahul Shrivastav from Lucknow, Performed in various Art of Living Satsangs
with H.H.SRI SRI RAVISHANKARJI, VIKRAM HAZRA, RISHI NITYAPRAGYAJI (Leading Guitarist and Senior AOL teachers),
Leading South Indian singer GAYATRI ASOKAN.
The exhaustive list doesnot end here.. He has got some music albums as well, which have launched in more than 150
countries, the names of his albums are—Trikaal, Shubhanjali, Vasudevaya and Classical fusion album with Harshad
Kanetkar which is yet to be published.
He is proud of his own creation— ‘TRIAUM’- THE FUSION BAND – a precussion oriented band. And TRINITY—the very recent, self designed fusion concept in which a Raaga was used as a base which was supported by Jazz.
He has also accompanied in various other fusion bands, namely—‘Talaash’ – Programme based on a self contemporary
thematic poetry songs. ( Specialty of Amit in this band is he uses his Right Hand for Tabla and Left Hand for drums.),
‘Mukti’ – corporate show, ‘Lambadaa’ – A sufi style section, ‘Soundscape band’ – A corporate instrumental fusion, with
Kaveri Agashe, Sheetal and Harshad Kanetkar. ‘Soundscapes’ – based on instrumental fusion.
Has done editing of a documentary for SIP festival and won 2nd prize for the same.
Amit Joshi has also worked as an event co-ordinator for the programme ‘ANTARNAAD’ with KEDAR PANDIT.
Won numerous inter-collegiate reputed competitions like :-Firodia, Kalyani, Verve and Mood indigo.
Had passed numerous music exams mainly Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalay.
His solo tablaa performances have gone global—Mauritius, Europe, US, UK, South Africa, Afganistan, Kuwait, Egypt, Thailand. The ‘tablaa vaadak’ has also given many performances for ICCR’s international cultural programs.
With such an amazing career in hand, Amit is as of this moment, awaiting his first Hindi commercial film called “Shree”,
where his band Talaash has given the music, the movie is scheduled to be released on 26th of this month. We wish
‘SHREE’ Amitji good luck for his next release and wish him a lot of success in years to come.
Third Bell
Entertainment
The End to End Entertainment Events Organization, Celebrity Management, Model Coordination, Casting Direction.
We provide following services all under one roof : Organizing, Managing, Arranging, Coordinating Entertainment Festivals, Cultural Events, Star Nights, Musical Concerts, Talk
Shows, Comedy Shows, Dance Shows, Fashion Events, Film Promotions, Music Launch,
Celebrity Management, Models Coordination, Casting Direction.
Our official Website : www.thirdbellentertainment.com
Address : Third Bell Entertainment, 1282 Sadashiv Peth, Raste Wada, Near Chimanya
Ganapati, Off Bajirao Road, Pune 411030, Maharashtra, India. Contact Numbers :
9822426254. Email : [email protected]
Poonam Patankar
“My parents get most of the credit for turning me into an art/design nerd.” – says the young artist.
Poonam Patankar, after passing out from Raheja School of Art as a Commercial Artist she worked for Srujan - Handmade Paper Products Company for few months, later she got a chance to work with her Guru Mr. Achyut Palav in
their design firm.
Though she is a commercial artist, her heart lies in calligraphy, which is her forte.
Poonam Patankar tells, “After working for 3-4 yrs in graphic designing I was not happy with my progress & work. One
day, I got a call from Mrs. Deval Sanghvi of ESCHE Creatives which I’ll say milestone of my career. In ESCHE we use to
work for celebrity clients, bollywood actresses party invite, return gifts, exclusive wedding cards. During this time I
learned entire thought process, design styles, quality control, dealing with vendors, handling of orders, client servicing etc”
“Deval Madam not only gave me the confidence but I realized the truth that we can create anything with our desire,
passion & happy mind J…there is no need to stick to just computer & few softwares.”
As an artist Poonam always wanted to create something with which she can add meaning to everyone’s life ..
She is a ridiculous perfectionist, and cant get sleep until the work is done.
Her determination and hardworking capacity has given her work visibility.
“In more recent years, my husband has been most influential to my craft. He urged me again and again to start my
own business and do something I enjoy, and I’m so glad I took him up on it. And started my own company ‘Bonheur’
in 2011 which simply means happiness, dedicated to creative & conceptual gifting. I always use to like to gift people
with a creative touch, understanding individuals personality to make them feel special..:-)”
All of her products are not just gift articles but with concepts and best executed. She adds, “In our country very few
people design gifts with thought process, So my aim is to design creative gifts which’ll always be remembered..luckily
my husband Nilesh is a Professional Photographer, so I got a fabulous pictures and ultimately my product reach to a
higher standard.”
Her first order was from Bisleri for Diwali gifting, for her products & challenge was to manage 7000 diyas in just 3
weeks which she managed to deliver successfully.
“ I want to reach to the best areas of the world & heart of the people through my products and I want to make my
short time on this Earth meaningful on my own terms. That is the joy of being a maker.” says the hardworking girl.
We wish Poonam all the very best for her future ventures...
Amruta Kale
Born with a rich Musical Heritage of prodigious
talent Amruta nurtured her musical skills since
childhood from her parents and gurus Pt. Raja
Kale and Jaya Kale. Amruta started taking training at a tender age of five in a true sense of
Guru-Shishya Parampara from her father and
guru Pt.Raja Kale an Eminent Performer and
Guru, a true Torchbearer of Legendary
Pt.Jitendra Abhisheki Gayaki. Her father being
the senior most disclipile of the most Versatile
Performer Pt.Jitendra Abhisheki taught her the
nuances of Jaipur , Agra and gwalior gharana
gayaki with a unique Asthetical and Exquisite
Rendering qualities in Raagdari Sangeet along
with Semi Classical forms like Thumri , Tappa,
and Light Classical music also.
To further nurture her artistry she is very fortunate to learn under the able guidance of Sangeet Martand Pandit Jasraj ji of Mevati Gharana. Under Panditji’s tutelage Amruta had developed a distinctive style of her own that
combines Melodious soothing rendering bringing out her Emotionalism and Romanticism
with Intensity and an excellent command over
Rhythm which are the Hallmark of Mevati Gharana Gayaki
Blessed with a high – pitched voice suitable for
non classical forms she has also set her mark in
Playback singing by her first debut marathi film
Jai-Shankar .and singing for Commercials and
Fusion.
Amruta being a Performer also is a good Teacher as she believes in preserving the rich musical cultural heritage to
the coming young generations. Some of her Performances in Prestigious Music Festivals and received numerous
Awards like Vedic Heritage USA Long Island New York Classical Music Competition in 2002 , Rotary Club Of Hyderabad Award , “Sangeet Ratna” Award by IWAF ,Scholarship To Young Artists by Central Government of India, Mega
Finalist Of Zee SaReGaMa received the award by the hands of Pt.Ravi Shankar , was featured in a music serial Swar
Sadhana with UStad Zakir Hussain, performances in Swami Haridas Sangeet Samaroh in Mathura, Pt.Jitendra Abhisheki Sangeet Samaroh – Goa, Pt Balasaheb Poochwale Smriti Samaroh – Gwalior , and many other places all over
India and abroad. Amruta – we are proud of you!
Keep up the good work…
Vikram Patwardhan
The Medical Event Organizer
Mr. Vikram Patwardhan, a management student from the esteemed Wigan Leigh School of Management Studies, UK, started out with a modest venture in the year 2001. And set up a company
by the name of Vama Events. This firm primarily focused on Medical Conventions in India. Over
the past eleven years, Mr. Vikram has gained a strong foothold in the Medical Events industry so
much so that Vama Events has become the most convenient and sought after firm to handle complicated as well as simple soirées. His firm acts as a Complete Integrated Event Solution managing
not only the event but also the press and media adjacent to it.
Mr. Vikram is the Chief Executive Officer of the firm. Vikram spent the first 4 years of his professional career in the hospitality industry perfecting his abilities in sales, marketing, event operations, conference budgeting, planning, public relations and corporate communications. After
working under the guidance of his superiors, he chose to risk his comfortable life with a then unknown enterprise, namely Vama Events. The task was fairly complicated - to collaborate contacts
made in the hospitality industry with the already existing contacts to which he was privy to thanks
to the presence of a medical journalist in the household. Simply by word of mouth, the company
has expanded by three folds and gone on to become a Private Limited Company in 2012. The firm
started with manpower of mere 3 people and has escalated to around 20 people. Depending on
the grandeur of the event, the firm employs volunteers to meet the expectations of the client.
Thus, the manpower ranges from 10 to 200. Mr.Vikram Patwardhan, personally trains the rookies
to this industry with utmost patience and consideration; guiding them wherever it seems fit and
sanctioning them to make mistakes wherever affordable. He believes the quickest way to learn
and learn well, is to fall, stumble and rise above.
Mr. Vikram has already taken his firm on a global level as it has undertaken medical events in Colombo, Hong Kong and Greece thus far. If international events present themselves, Vama Events
will undertake them with as much substance as they would in this country under Mr. Vikram's
leadership. The most profound differentiator between Vama Events and its competitors is that is
the solitary site which is displayed by Google for the search result of medical events' organisers.
Initially when Mr. Vikram started out, the concept of hiring an event manager was quite new, and
the biggest challenge that Mr. Vikram faced was to convince clients that they would need professional help to ensure their event functioned smoothly. R&D did not take up too much time as
Mr.Vikram was already a part of the hospitality industry and his experience taught him all there
was to know about event management.
Even in his busy schedule, Mr.Vikram ensures that his contribution to the society is felt. He believes in community service rather than funding. His half yearly trips to Gondhavdekar Maharaj's
ashram in Pune are viable proof of the same. We wish Vikram all the very best!!!
Beat Route is a social-art organization striving to make a difference. It
is a platform for students, artists, professionals, and every other individual
interested in making the world a better place by using ART as a tool.
Beat Route has evolved in the past
Five years and Beat Route - collective
has grown to over 40 strong, including people from every field ranging
from Architecture, Mass Media, Management, Engineering, Law, etc.
Beat Route works on 3-C structure of Create, Care and Cultivate for the society through various art
forms.
CREATE:
In the present times the vigorous school routines deprive the child of developing creative and innovative
skills. The students are barely introduced to contemporary and commercial art .Every year Beat Route
hosts Srujan. An art workshop which encourages the interaction between professionals from the art industry and the kids.
Various activities that we take include art forms of Dance, Drama, creative theories like Art Installations,
Fashion designing, Material Specialist, Animation, Set designing, Logo Designing, Abstract Lamp Shade
Making, Robotics, Animal bonding, Advertising and Marketing, Sculpture Making, Photography ,
Dance Typologies, Mime, Movie Making, etc. in 17day workshop.
All these activities undertaken in these 17days are presented by an event and an art exhibition on the final
day in an Auditorium in Mumbai. The event witnesses a crowd of around 600 people.
Beat Route is proud to announce its 5th season of Srujan from 1st May to 18th May, 2013 at Tilak Nagar
Chembur.
CARE:
Care is what we believe to give back to society. Beat Route being an organization for others, whatever revenue is generated from the above said Srujan project, is redirected to our project ‘ART- Art Realization
Trips ’- A community enrichment process for the socially, physically or mentally deprived.
In the past two years, Beat Route has hosted workshops in remote villages for Kokan, which lack basic facilities and amenities and have introduced these socially deprived kids to the modern day commercial art
forms.
This year onwards what we target is a revolution. A community enrichment process not only in Kokan but
also include the students of Remand Home, Street Kids in Mumbai and Visually as well as physically impaired students without any financial intake from these beneficiaries.
CULTIVATE:
Beat Route also believes in the ideology of cultivating the common feeling of care in the society. The peo-
ple connected to Beat Route come together to implement, test and innovate through their creative
skills develops a product which conveys the basic morals that Beat Route stands for.
Beat Route in its cultivate model, recently had 15000 hits on YouTube for its Project Khushi- A
video song spreading smile. On 25th January 2013, at around 4:40 pm, the ever bustling Dadar
East Station was brought to a standstill by a group of young men and women of diverse sexual orientations, all dancing to celebrate the spirit of LGBTHIQ Community in Mumbai and India.
The dance performance was made possible by young volunteers belonging to Yaariyan, a youth
group working towards Queer youth issues in Mumbai.
Our Mission:
‘To develop a socio-entrepreneurial model to enhance and sustain Art’
Beat Route is a process of redefining creativity among the society through expertise knowledge
and help of the armature artists by testing and innovating art forms. We are focused, any sort of
volunteering, promotion, participation or financial aid will help us enrich our projects to a different
a level of Art.
BMM Indo-US Educators’ Summit
© New England Marathi Mandal and Bruhan Maharashtra Mandal of North America, 2011-2013
Who Should Attend BMM Indo-US Educators Summit 2013
Connecting Educators in the USA and India
New vistas and paradigms for education are being formulated and implemented in the USA: dramatic impetus is being
provided to joint projects with Indian universities and other academic institutions. And consistent simultaneous attempts
are made by Indian educational institutions for a constructive dialog with US counterparts aimed at furthering education
for the workforce of tomorrow. This summit offers an excellent forum to accelerate the interactions between the US and
Indian educators, as more than 50 educators and policy makers who preside over 2 million students in India and about
equal number of deans, presidents of reputed educational institutions in US will take part in this summit.
The goal of this summit will be to support dialogue among academic institutions in India and the US to develop an understanding of educational cultures, approaches, and market needs in both countries; and to foster collaboration.
The Summit will focus on following areas to facilitate collaboration between the US & Indian educational institutions:
. Best Practices in Education (Philosophy, Quality, Collaboration)
. Nurturing Academic Success (thru Consulting, Research, Industry Liaison)
. Indo-US Collaboration in Education – Potential, Opportunities & Challenges
. New Approaches to Education
. .How Will You Benefit
Learning best practices, success stories, and future trends through structured panel discussions
Visits to & interactions with renowned US universities
Structured networking opportunities with US educators in an informal setting
Esteemed Speakers:
Dr. Bhushan Patwardhan - Professor (Bio-Informatics), Pune University
Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar—President, Global Research Alliance
Dr. Vishwanath Karad—Founder and Director General, MAEER's MIT
Dr. Elizabeth Wheeler—Assistant Professor, Brown University
Dr. Graham Jones Vice President (Research), Northeastern University
Dr. Dennis Ausiello—Department Chair, Harvard Medical School
Dr. Mukund Kulkarni Chancellor, Penn State Harrisburg
Dr. Richard Wagner Professor and Distinguished Fellow, Brown University Medical school
Dr. Robert Grubbs (Nobel Laureate) Caltech, California
For Delegates from India:
Travel assistance by Raja Rani Travels Pvt. Ltd.
[email protected] Tel.: (022)
24467656/75/76 Fax: (022)24449652
Can Indians really profit by Investing in the US?
A decade ago, there was this “India Rising”, the “Feel Good” philosophy in India. What happened? Where are Indians in the world market today? We promised we would be the leader
in the world! Are we sliding away from a dream of being number one to three and from position three to even much lower? Do you think there is a huge lack of knowledge and lack of efforts between our intentions and the political push needed for Indians to go and grow beyond
our own borders? Do you think that India’s ambition will remain a mere dream that will never, ever be realized? Are you, a businessman or business person, one of the millions who is
responsible for that lack of outgrowth? Do you have qualms in exporting to the US or doing
business in the US? Or investing in the US or reservations on actually having a manufacturing
unit in the US? Do you doubt that you really have an opportunity to make it big? Yes. BIG! Actually BIGGER! Not just in India, but in the US? What if you didn’t know about it? What if you
knew and still never made a move? Who is responsible? You? Or those politicians? Or the Department of Foreign Affairs? Are you going to blame others?
From the western perspective, India most certainly has the potential. Are we the ones that
have not utilized our potential? Are we really the ones that have not even used even 10th of
our capacity to grow? One of the biggest problems that we talked for decades was our overly
dense population. Our population explosion! However, that turned out to be our greatest
boon! Or is it only a short lived boon! The best consumer base in the world, the best service
oriented work force, but a shame when Ganesh idols have to be imported into our own country from China! Our Gods, manufactured in a foreign land. A land that does not necessarily
want us to prosper, has had military encounters with us, suppresses the greatest regimes in
the world even though the world knows that they are doing multitude of illegal, unethical
things openly!
What is India doing? What are Indians doing about it? What are YOU as Indian Businessmen
and Businesswoman doing about it? If you are an Entrepreneur, then you know what it takes
to take that step millions of others have not taken, or cannot even think of taking. So, what is
it? What has limiting you from going BIG? Have others dissuaded you from doing so? Have
you heard of some rumors that have held back the Entrepreneur in you?
What kind of undertaking are you handling right now? What projects are you currently handling that you think would really do good in the US? What are the endeavors you want your
business to venture into? Do you think it will be a gamble? What if it is not? What if there is a
way? …. What if there is a much nicer, easier way to establish Indian businesses in the US?
What if the risks and speculations you have been threatened about are hollow? What if the
speculations thrown at you, were not one in the first place? What if you only invest or buy a
business in the US and there are some hidden ways that could benefit your kids get high
class, superior quality education at cheaper fees and you don’t have to do anything? What if
you are given incentives, several incentives to do things in the US that you are doing in India
or are dreaming about doing?
What are the secrets that have been hidden from you in the past? What is it that you always
knew in the mind of your minds, that there was a way, because you had a will, but nobody
ever showed you the way? What if you are shown the way? What if, it really is legal and truly
ethical? Are you ready to take the first step towards overcoming that fear of the unknown to
make it known, overcome that fear, and laugh at those nay Sayers?
Stay tuned. We bring you tons of information, several avenues to not only invest successfully, but
to make it BIG in the US…… but that is in the next issue of our eMagazine. Until then you can
reach me directly for any projects you are interested in.
Sandeep Pednekar has served on The International Business Council with the
Greater Memphis Chamber; as The City Commissioner with the City of Memphis and
currently on the Shelby County Mayor’s Young Professional Council. As a US citizen
of Indian origin, he promotes Indian Businessmen to invest in profitable ventures
within the US, guides entrepreneurs to successfully invest in profitable endeavors.
He is the founder of India Fest, founded to promote India’s Art Culture, History &
Heritage. His efforts are spearheaded in increasing Indian presence in the US market. As CEO of Advent Enterprises, Inc., a Business conglomerate he consults in acquisitions, marketing and management in the US. From promoting India’s Art and
Culture to the western world, he started 1 Universe, Inc. is the (NGO) non-profit he
started to promote Art and Culture of people from all over the world. These effort
got world-wide recognition which then evolved into promoting Cross-Cultural ties
between US and other countries. With his business ties and his Business acumen 1
Universe now has made it a name recognized in the business domain to have encouraged Cross-Business Tie-Ups between the US and rest of the world.
Sandeep Pednekar can be reached
at [email protected] or [email protected] or you can call him directly on
his cell at 001-901- 849-DEEP (3337).
We have attached Mr. Sandeep Pednekar’s profile so that, you as readers can get more information about his scope of
work.
Sandeep Pednekar is result-oriented and overcomes obstacles with a positive attitude. His engineering background bestows him
an analytical and logical mind to manage challenging projects by thinking outside the box. His pursuit of an MBA has also given him
the ability to spot business potentials and to take calculated risks towards success in business management.
With advantage of strong educational and business foundation, passion for success in diverse ventures and the ability to reach out
to people from diverse backgrounds, nationalities, races, and religions, he has gained phenomenal respect across the board.
Sandeep Pednekar is the host of the popular show 1-Universe aired on WUMR FM 91.7, affectionately called U92FM and streamed
lived all over the world! The show 1-Universeis based on the non-profit 1 Universe that goes beyond mere talks on Diversity and
Inclusion and gets people from all walks of life together under 1-roof to give back to the community and bring about positive
changes in the city, county, state, the country and in fact the Universe. Hence the name 1 Universe!
Sandeep Pednekar is the CEO of Advent Enterprises, Inc, a firm that deals in Buying and Selling of Hotels. He is also the Area Manager with COMAC. He is a connoisseur in Commercial and Residential Real Estate with good knowledge in Mortgages. He has a
career exceeding a decade of accomplishments in the business of construction, hospitality, and various facets of Commercial and
Residential Real Estate. He has a proven record of trend-setting achievements in business, non-profit, community and social
spheres. Being a CEO and Principal Broker of Advent Enterprises Inc. he has perfected the art of Business Consulting and prides his
expertise in real estate acquisitions. Managing portfolios for private investors is his forte.
Sandeep is always on the lookout for new deals and market opportunities such as properties for sale or foreclosure. His skills involve identifying new investors/buyers for investments by negotiating/bargaining and collaborating details based on generated
business, business forecast, future economic trends and socio-cultural developments. He is efficient in developing innovative financing techniques to facilitate successful completion of deals. He is competent in locating sites for new projects based on city
and/or suburban forecasts, competitive assessment and trends based on market research. He has been the President of Multi Unit
Moguls & DASK, a real estate development and construction firm. In this position, Sandeep worked on all complexities of housing
projects including managing banks and attorney issues including arranging financing for investors. He orchestrated unique funding
mechanism to handle foreclosure issues and to manage and skillfully handle irate vendors and contractors.
He has successfully guided potential investors through EPA surveys, city/county regulations necessary to avoid pitfalls. His expertise also involves analyzing financial and business potential of an investment and planning economic forecast for clients based on
emerging opportunities for the region. Sandeep has successfully broken glass ceilings by implementing comprehensive strategies
and creating growth opportunities for business partners, peers and employees. He precisely aligns client objectives with business
goals through planning, development, strategic implementation, and execution of cost-effective solutions.
Mr. Pednekar is equally passionate about change for betterment of society and about creating opportunities to help people from
diverse backgrounds. He has successfully organized fundraisers for non-profit events and has immense experience in promoting
events through different media outlets. While serving as the City Commissioner with the City of Memphis, Sandeep has worked
with undying perseverance to manage and motivate groups towards goal- oriented projects. When working as a part of the City
Mayor’s Office, City of Memphis, he has diligently worked with representatives in the state Capitol, including writing a bill, lobbying and having it signed into a law. Sandeep is a people’s person with excellent social and inter-personal skills. He is a respected
community leader. He is the Co-Founder and Ex-Chairman of the Greater Memphis Immigrant Task Force. He has served on the
board of several leading and diverse organizations such as Leadership Germantown Alumni Association, the Germantown Baptist
Rehab Hospital, the YMCA and the Taste of Memphis. He is associated with Leadership Memphis, the Ronald McDonald House,
Habitat for Humanity, Memphis City Schools, Metropolitan Inter Faith Association and United Housing. He has also been involved
in organization of several community events such a regional beauty pageants and festivals such as the Memphis in May, International Festival and India fest.
Sandeep has served as City Commissioner, City of Memphis, and Memphis City Beautiful:
It is the oldest government organization in the country that caters to several aspects of keeping the city clean & beautiful. He has
worked with the Mayor’s Office of Multicultural and Religious Affairs (OMRA): It is the only city government office of its kind that
caters to the issues of varies cultural communities, races and religions. Helped the office in Organizing festivals of “Community in
Love”, “International Fest” and “Diversity Day” at Memphis City Hall; Worked on Title VI Committee and Public Relations Committee for the Mayor’s office. He was part in promoting city events through several media outlets to make a positive impact. Directed people towards free government services.
Co-Founder and Ex-Chairman, Greater Memphis Immigrant Task Force: It is a non-profit organization set to compliment the
Mayor’s office to address issues concerning immigrants.
With the GMITF group arranged English as a Second Language (ESL) classes for immigrants, arranged and coordinated free legal
services; guided immigrants to government and other free services, driver’s permits, etc. Promoted events through all media outlets and promoted the causes and objectives of the organization. Worked with political bigwigs as well as City and County officials
to implement and celebrate a combined Diversity day and a Diversity Conference to go beyond mere talk on diversity to promote
REAL Diversity through recreation, food and serious understanding by implementing inclusion of diversity. At state level helped
GMITF group campaign for a bill on legal adoption and have successfully crusaded to make it into a TN law. This involved getting
several non-profits, for-profits, legal, religious and political leaders on board to share the morals of the cause and support the
efforts towards changing the existing laws making a paradigm shift.
Board Member, Taste of Memphis: It is a non-Profit organization promoting tourism and highlighting the variety and assortments
of restaurants in the city.
Steering Committee Member and Judge, Memphis In May International Festival: It is the biggest non-profit organization in North America hosting and honoring the arts, culture of several countries around the world and promoting bilateral businesses with those countries.
Served on the Steering Committee for India and Holland and as a Judge on several panels; promoted tourism. He has invited celebrities
from various fields including arts, cultural performers from a foreign country, and political bigwigs from Washington D.C. as well as Hollywood stars to events. Worked with the Memphis Area Chamber of Commerce (now Greater Memphis Chamber) to promote business
and exchange commerce between Memphis and the honored countries.
Community Board Member, Germantown Baptist Rehab Hospital
NCCJ and Diversity Memphis: Part in organizing international festivals and Diversity Walks to promote racial harmony and tolerance
Helped in organizing International Fests through Germantown Rotary Club
Arranged Volunteer packages/associated with/promoted/participated in the following:
Memphis City Schools: Mentoring Kids through “Our Children Our Future”
Metropolitan Inter Faith Association (MIFA): Meals on Wheels (Delivering Food to the old and feeble);
Facilitator, Common Grounds: Handling race relations in Shelby County
Habitat for Humanity: Building affordable housing with no interest or profit for low income families
United Housing: Building Low Income houses through affordable lending. Worked with Economic Development corporations and promoted housing fairs through various outlets.
Facilitator, Ronald McDonald House: Arranged for groups to volunteer for kids being treated for cancer at St. Jude. Coordinated fundraising activities for the cause of this non-profit organization
Leadership Memphis and Leadership Memphis Alumni & Leadership Germantown and Board of Leadership Germantown Alumni Association
Have successfully inspired business, socio-cultural, religious and political leaders to get on board with a vision to bring about positive
changes in the local neighborhoods, city, county and state levels. Have got media heavily involved with the causes I am involved in
Economic, Community and Cultural Contributions: President and Trustee, India Association of Memphis: Served as President while I was
a full time student at the University of Memphis pursuing MBA with major in Management Information Systems (MIS). Invited the
youngest US representative for the very first function and started my stride of being featured on TV programs and news broadcasts on
all channels and print media. Served the as President twice and Trustee for three years and handled various roles including editor of
newsletter, marketing and introducing innovative ideas for the non-profit, skillfully handling trustee, committee and membership concerns, financing, budgeting, logistics and over all administration.
Founder, Chairman & Host, Regional Miss India USA Beauty Pageant: First and only event of its kind promoting self-confidence and volunteerism through Beauty Pageants in Five states (TN, MS, AR, KY and AL); successfully promoted event through all media outlets with
political, business, socio-cultural leaders. Sandeep handled logistics, funding, advertisements, promotion and successful execution of
pageants even without charging entry tickets. He has been offered to conduct beauty pageant nationally.
Board, YMCA: Healthy Kids Campaign; Youth leadership Program; Multicultural achievers Program; We Build People Campaign; Adopt A
School Initiative; Applying for government and private grants.
Memphis Area Chamber of Commerce: International Business Council; Knowledge Enhancement Committee
National Contribution: Memphis Council for International Visitors
International Contributions: Founder and Chairman: Advent Bureau of International Leadership.
Civic Contributions: CAAP Inc: (Cocaine and Alcohol Awareness Program Inc) Guiding addicts to a drug free life;
COMEC (Commission on Missing and Exploited Children);
Women against Domestic Violence: Helping battered women and assisting against domestic violence.
Other Civic Contributions & Community Services: Honoring the heroes of 9/11; Veterans and Men & women currently in the US services
at the Isaac Hayes Jazz Club in Peabody Place; Promoting varied culture and Heritage from different parts of the world
Public Relations Officer, Arya Samaj
Sandeep’s involvement in business and altruistic endeavors has lead to: Invitation from the Chief of Recruiting Head Quarter of the US
Naval Base and to a US Nuclear Sub; Invitation from the India Ambassador to US to meet with the Prime Minister of India on several
occasions. Invitation from Memphis Chamber to meet with Ambassadors from different countries; invitation to attend swearing in ceremony of Governor at the Capitol; present with Governor while signing predatory lending bills; Inter faith meetings and seminars; Invited
by rotary clubs; Prestigious clubs, etc.
MACCIA
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