LipidVerse 2025, a landmark one-day conference dedicated to exploring cutting-edge advancements in lipid-based technologies for pharmaceutical applications, successfully concluded at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay). The event brought together leading experts from academia, industry professionals, and regulatory bodies to discuss the future of lipid nanomedicine and drug delivery systems.

The LipidVerse 2025 team strikes a pose after an insightful conference

Hosted by IIT Bombay with VAV Lipids as a platinum industry expert and sponsor, the conference served as a vital platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration in the rapidly evolving field of lipid nanotechnology.

Key themes and discussions at LipidVerse 2025 included:

• Lipid Nanoparticles (LNPs) in mRNA and Gene Delivery: Emphasizing their critical role in next-generation therapeutics.

• Lipid Nanotechnology in Cancer Therapy: Showcasing innovative approaches to targeted drug delivery.

• Synthetic vs. Natural Lipids: A comprehensive discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of different lipid types in nanomedicine.

• Toxicological and Regulatory Aspects: Addressing the crucial safety and compliance standards for novel lipid nanocarriers.

• Advances in Dermatology and Nutraceuticals: Exploring diverse applications beyond traditional therapeutics.

• The insightful sessions and dynamic panel discussions underscored the current state of the art and the immense potential of lipid-based medical interventions.

The eloquent speakers highlighted how industry partners and start-ups are increasingly benefitting from academic research, particularly through student-led collaboration initiatives at IIT Bombay that help translate laboratory innovations into real-world applications. They also addressed challenges surrounding intellectual property rights (IPR), emphasizing the need for more streamlined frameworks that support joint development while safeguarding innovation. In addition, the speakers noted that sponsors today expect not only high-quality publications but also clear visibility into how many innovations have progressed to products or real-world applications. In an insightful panel discussion, the panelists further called for stronger, structured engagement models, earlier industry involvement, and shared risk–reward mechanisms to accelerate the translation of lipid nanotechnology breakthroughs.

“LipidVerse 2025 provided an invaluable forum for researchers and industry leaders to converge and share breakthroughs that will undoubtedly shape the future of medicine. VAV Lipids is happy to extend support to academia and collaborate with organizations interested in pushing the boundaries of lipid science,” said Arun Kedia, Managing Director, VAV Lipids.

Prof Sameer Jadhav, Core Faculty, Department of Chemical Engineering, IIT Bombay, said, “The enthusiasm and expertise on display highlight a collective commitment to advancing health solutions through innovative lipid-based systems. IIT Bombay extends its sincere gratitude to all speakers, sponsors, participants, and students for making the inaugural LipidVerse conference a resounding success.”

LipidVerse 2025 was a one-day conference held at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay on November 8, 2025, focused on exploring innovations in lipid-based nanomedicine and drug delivery. The event aimed to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application, fostering dialogue and collaboration among global experts.

About IIT Bombay

The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, set up in 1958 as the second IIT, is recognised worldwide as a leader in the field of science and engineering education and research. The Institute was granted the status of ‘Institution of Eminence’ by the Ministry of Education (the then Ministry of Human Resources Development) on July 9, 2018. IIT Bombay is reputed for the quality of its faculty and the outstanding calibre of students graduating from its undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. The Institute has 17 academic departments, 31 Centres/ Programmes/Academic facilities and three schools. Over the last six decades, more than 70,000 engineers and scientists have graduated from the Institute. It is served by more than 756 faculty members, with121 women faculty, considered not only amongst the best within the country but also highly recognised in the world for achievements in the field of education and research. In June 2025, IIT Bombay was ranked 2nd in India and 129th in the world in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings for 2026. In March 2025, IIT Bombay was ranked 28th in Engineering and Technology in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings by Subject for 2025.

About VAV Lipids

VAV Lipids is headquartered in Mumbai, India and is among the world’s leading manufacturers of phospholipids and lecithin. The biopharmaceutical company manufactures plant phospholipids (LECIVA), egg phospholipids (LIPOVA), synthetic, and neutral lipids. The other products include APIs and specialty proteins. VAV’s high-grade phospholipids and lecithin are functional ingredients in developing novel drugs and biologics delivery systems (NDDS). Pharmaceutical companies use its high-quality lipids and lecithin to create multiple drug and biologics delivery projects. These include applications of lipids in developing vaccines, anaesthesia and formulations, cancer therapy based on liposomes, and novel drug delivery systems for treating several diseases. The products are also used in skincare, personal care and hair care products.

• 4,944 students awarded degrees across three days

• 170 PhD degrees conferred

• 10 students honored with Dr. TMA Pai Gold Medal

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, held its 33rd Convocation over three days from November 21–23, 2025, at Manipal. The grand ceremony witnessed the conferment of degrees to 4,944 students, including 170 PhD awardees, while 10 exceptional students were honored with the prestigious Dr. TMA Pai Gold Medal across various disciplines.

Chief Guest Mr Bikram Singh Bedi, Vice President, Asia Pacific Strategic Initiatives, Google Cloud presenting certificates to graduating students

The ceremony was attended by senior leadership including Mrs. Vasanti R. Pai, Trustee of MAHE, Pro Chancellor Dr. H. S. Ballal, and Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor of MAHE, along with faculty, proud families, and graduating students. A significant highlight of the ceremony was the release of a first-day postal cover commemorating the 90th birthday of Dr. Ramdas M. Pai, Chancellor of MAHE. The release was carried out by Srimathi Vasanti Pai, Trustee, MAHE Trust, alongside Sri Ramesh Prabhu, Superintendent of Post Offices, Udupi Division.

The three-day convocation ceremony featured distinguished chief guests who reflected on the rapidly evolving landscape shaped by artificial intelligence. Their addresses offered guidance on how graduates can navigate this new era with confidence and responsibility. On Day One, Prof. Dr. Ananya Mukherjee, Vice Chancellor of Shiv Nadar University, Delhi-NCR, delivered the convocation address, emphasizing the critical importance of retaining human judgment in an AI-driven world. She observed, “Never delegate your judgement. Leverage all the powers of AI and computational techniques to inform decisions, not make them. Do not let go but reserve moral choices for human wisdom,” Her address highlighted the need for graduates to adopt AI as a powerful collaborative tool while ensuring that human values and wisdom remain central to decision-making. The next day’s address further explored how individuals must adapt to remain relevant in an AI-dominated future.

On Day Two, the address by Bikram Singh Bedi, Vice President for Asia Pacific Strategic Initiatives at Google Cloud and a proud MAHE alumnus, further expanded the conversation by shifting focus to the skills and mindset required to thrive in an AI-driven world. With more than three decades of experience in technology, entrepreneurship, and leadership, he noted that the challenges of AI extend well beyond technical knowledge. They are also ethical, social, and deeply human, requiring thoughtful and responsible engagement. He urged graduates to approach innovation with accountability: “Don’t just build or use technology—do it responsibly. Don’t only ask ‘Can we build or use this?’ but also ‘Should we?’ Use your skills not just for personal success, but for the progress of society.”

Building on this focus on human values in an AI-driven world, day three featured the address by Prof. (Dr.) Hany Eteiba, President of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow. He emphasized the importance of empathetic communication in a technology-driven world. He reminded graduates that “knowledge and science gain true meaning only when paired with humanity, attentive listening, and genuine connection.” He said that effective communication helps turn knowledge into meaningful care and impact. Dr. Eteiba urged graduates to lead with trust, dignity, and compassion, noting that no success is achieved alone. He envisioned a future where technological progress and human empathy grow together, guided by integrity, respect, and responsibility.

Together, the convocation addresses aligned closely with the transformative vision shared by Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor, MAHE. He presented a roadmap for a future shaped by innovation, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence, highlighting the institution’s digital capabilities and sustainable initiatives, including its 32-megawatt solar power facility. He emphasized the institution’s commitment to leading the AI era with foresight and responsibility. He added that the institution’s mission goes far beyond academic achievement. It aims to build a learning ecosystem rooted in compassion, global perspectives, and strong community engagement through research, student initiatives, and technology incubators.

The 33rd Convocation recognized outstanding students with the prestigious Dr. TMA Pai Gold Medal across all three days. Day one gold medalists included Ponnamma M. M. (M.Sc. Medical Biotechnology, MSLS Manipal), Nikita Marina Saldanha (B.Pharm, MCOPS Manipal), Cyril Biji (M.Sc. Biostatistics, PSPH Manipal), and Vindhya S. Badal (B.Sc. Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics, MCHP Manipal). On day two, the awards were presented to Rashi Goel (B. Tech Computer Science and Engineering, MIT Manipal), Neha Sreekumar (B.Sc. Nursing, MCON Manipal), and Mandira (B.A. Media & Communication, MIC Manipal).

Continuing the celebration on day three, gold medalists were Ms. Nidhi S. (ME, Big Data Analytics, MSIS), Ms. Kashika Anil Kini (B. Com Professional), and Ms. Zhara Mohiddin (IPM, Manipal Institute of Management), reflecting the exceptional academic and professional achievements of MAHE’s graduating students. The medalists expressed sincere gratitude for MAHE’s supportive environment, which they said helped turn hard work into achievement. They reflected that this milestone is not just an ending, but the beginning of a new phase of responsibility and service to society.

The 33rd Convocation celebrated the academic excellence and inspiring achievements of MAHE’s graduating class, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to shaping responsible, forward-thinking, and industry-ready leaders for an AI-driven world. The ceremony concluded on an optimistic note, as students, families, and faculty now look forward to the upcoming convocation celebrations at MAHE Bengaluru on November 29–30, 2025.

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education

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

Furthering its mission to enable underserved consumers to access financial products and make informed choices, Paisabazaar has introduced Udyam registration, GST registration, and GST filing services across its retail stores. These services are aimed at self-employed individuals—one of the most credit-challenged segments—who often face barriers arising from inadequate documentation, insufficient financial records, and limited familiarity with digital channels.

At Paisabazaar’s stores, trained experts would provide consumers with expert advice and curated recommendations on a wide range of financial aspects

At these stores, trained experts would provide consumers with expert advice, curated recommendations according to need and profile, and documentation assistance along with complete guidance on a range of financial aspects.

Santosh Agarwal, CEO of Paisabazaar, said, “For self-employed consumers and small business owners, access to credit and other financial products  has traditionally been challenging and complex. We, at Paisabazaar, are aiming to address this challenge through our phygital model to empower small businesses. This initiative is in line with our brand purpose – Har Sapna Hoga Sach – helping every Indian make smart financial decisions.”

The primary focus of these stores is on small business owners and shopkeepers, assisting them through every step related to their business and credit needs. Along with the FST and Udyam services, consumers can walk in and also explore various credit options, such as business loans, personal loans, home loans, etc., at these stores and get end-to-end assistance in choosing the right option for their credit requirements.

In addition to these services, consumers visiting Paisabazaar retail stores can check their free credit score and explore the best available loan and credit offers. Trained experts also assist them in understanding their credit profile, improving their credit health, and making better financial decisions.

Currently, Paisabazaar retail stores are operational in Gurugram (Jail Road), Noida (Sector 15) and New Delhi (Lajpat Nagar), where consumers can avail Udyam, Aadhaar and GST registration, along with expert assistance for GST filing.

The company plans to expand its retail presence to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, where credit demand is growing rapidly. The number of these stores will be further increased as the initiative continues to deliver positive outcomes.

About Paisabazaar

Paisabazaar, a part of PB Fintech (listed since 2021), is India’s largest marketplace for consumer credit and free credit score. Over the last 11 years, Paisabazaar has earned the trust of over 55 million consumers. Paisabazaar has built 65+ partnerships withBanks, NBFCs, and fintechs to  offer a broad range of credit products. Paisabazaar is ISO (27001:2013) and PCI DSS certified organisation, with industry-best controls, to safeguard the best interest of consumers.

Bisleri International, India’s leading packaged drinking water brand, is gearing up to power India’s exciting women’s sporting league, the Tata Women’s Premier League, as its Official Beverage Partner for the next two seasons. 

Bisleri International Secures Two-Year Partnership as Official Beverage Partner of the TATA Women’s Premier League

Launched in 2023, the Tata Women’s Premier League has rapidly elevated the visibility and aspirations of women’s cricket in India, uniting top domestic and international talent on one premier stage. 

Commenting on the bid win Jayanti Khan Chauhan, Vice-Chairperson, Bisleri International, said, “We at Bisleri are proud to partner with the TATA Women’s Premier League as Official Beverage Partners for the next two years. Excited to witness this exceptional generation of women cricketers from across the world championing an indomitable spirit for sporting excellence.”

BCCI Secretary, Devajit Saikia added, “Tata WPL is built on a vision of excellence, opportunity, and world-class sports entertainment. Bisleri, our new partner, brings exceptional value and diverse strengths to this ecosystem. This partnership will play a critical role in shaping the fan experience and supporting the growth of women’s cricket.”

The tournament, which is set to kick-off from January 2026, will be amplified through limited-edition packs, followed by strong on-ground visibility via visicoolers and iceboxes in team dugouts, while also engaging fans with in-stadium hydration support. The brand is further exploring experience-led interventions and a roll-out of exciting digital content to extend the excitement beyond the stadium. 

Bisleri International today has one of the largest sports marketing portfolios across India and the UAE, with 60+ associations across various genres of sports – cricket, hockey, tennis, badminton, marathons, rugby, table tennis, golf, and more. This association further strengthens Bisleri’s growing presence in the sports ecosystem, reinforcing its dedication to fostering a culture of fitness, resilience and hydration excellence for athletes and fans alike.

The Mall Group today unveiled a milestone partnership with Monchhichi, the beloved Japanese character celebrating its 50th anniversary, marking the first-ever large-scale Monchhichi holiday collaboration in Southeast Asia. Officially authorized by Sekiguchi Co., Ltd., and supported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), this initiative represents one of the most extensive Monchhichi commercial campaigns ever launched outside Japan.

The Mall Group Launches Southeast Asia’s First Monchhichi Holiday Collaboration, Elevating Bangkok as Asia’s Next Global Festive Landmark

Arriving at a time when character-driven cultural marketing is transforming retail and tourism across Asia, this collaboration reinforces Thailand’s ambition to position Bangkok as a world-class festive destination. Demand for immersive, uplifting, and emotionally resonant experiences continues to surge—driven by families, global travelers, collectors, and a new generation seeking moments that “heal the heart.” With its universal charm, innocence, and nostalgic appeal, Monchhichi becomes the perfect symbol for Thailand’s increasingly experience-centric holiday season.

The Mall Group Launches Southeast Asia’s First Monchhichi Holiday Collaboration, Elevating Bangkok as Asia’s Next Global Festive Landmark

Created in 1974, Monchhichi has grown from a childhood toy into a cross-generational cultural icon with passionate followings in Japan, Europe, and Asia. The Mall Group’s partnership celebrates this enduring legacy while introducing a fresh festive identity that merges Japanese storytelling with Thailand’s vibrant, welcoming holiday spirit—offering visitors a uniquely Asian cultural celebration.
 

Under this year’s theme, “Joyful Gifting Destination“, The Mall Group presents a series of exclusive showcases across its flagship properties:

• Monchhichi Holiday Store Pop-Up at Emporium – Thailand’s first official Monchhichi pop-up store featuring Thailand-exclusive collectibles, including Monchhichi in Muay Thai attire and traditional Thai school uniforms, expected to become sought-after treasures among collectors worldwide.

• Monchhichi Christmas Town at The Mall Lifestore Bangkapi – Southeast Asia’s first immersive Monchhichi attraction, highlighted by a 12-meter-tall Monchhichi, a themed Carousel, Immersive Infinity Room, and the Monchhichi Express Station. The installation runs until 4 January 2026.

• Premium Collector’s Holiday Editions – A curated line of Thailand-exclusive merchandise, including blankets, tumblers, tote bags, bottles, and collectible shopping bags, available at The Mall Lifestore, Emporium, and Siam Paragon.

From 6 November 2025 to 11 January 2026, The Mall Group’s major destinations will host seasonal events, themed performances, and premium promotions designed to captivate Thai shoppers and international holidaymakers.

Through this landmark collaboration, The Mall Group brings together world-renowned partners and beloved cultural icons to reshape Bangkok’s holiday landscape. By introducing Monchhichi in a bold new experiential format, Thailand strengthens its position as Asia’s next global festive hub, offering visitors a season filled with cross-cultural charm, joyful nostalgia, and memorable celebrations that shine on the world stage.

Ai+, India’s fastest-growing technology brand, today launched “Ai+ Laptab”, a new category of smart device that fuses the productivity of a laptop with the intuitive portability of a tablet. Designed for India’s hybrid generation of learners, creators, and professionals, the Ai+ Laptab will be available in three sizes – 11”, 12” and 13” – and comes with keyboard and stylus support. Set to go live nationwide in Q1 2026 through Flipkart and Ai+’s retail partners.

This marks Ai+’s second major hardware launch plan following the runaway success of the Ai+ Smartphone, which crossed 1 million users within six months, cementing Ai+ as a category-defining force in India’s sovereign tech landscape.

The Ai+ Laptab is built on a simple premise: one device should do it all. From attending virtual classes to editing presentations, binge-watching shows to brainstorming on the go – users can now toggle between productivity and entertainment without switching devices or breaking flow.

Unlike conventional tablets limited by mobile OS constraints, the Laptab runs on NxtQ OS, offering a dedicated PC Mode for a full-fledged productivity interface. Users can open multiple windows, manage documents, and even write long-form content with ease, all with the feel of a traditional laptop, but none of the bulk. The privacy-first architecture of NxtQ OS ensures zero pre-loaded bloatware, no invasive trackers, and full local control of user data, delivering long-term trust, not short-term gimmicks.

With keyboard and stylus compatibility, the Laptab adapts seamlessly across use cases – study, design, productivity, and entertainment. Whether at home, in cafes, or on commutes, users can write, sketch, or browse with ease.

“The Ai+ Laptab is not just another tablet. It’s our answer to the fluidity of modern life,” said Madhav Sheth, CEO, Ai+ and Founder, NxtQuantum Shift Technologies. “Indian users expect a single device to perform across roles, study, design, video calls, relaxation, without compromise. That’s what the Ai+ Laptab delivers.” He continued, “The Ai+ Laptab brings productivity, utility and entertainment into one space that fits naturally into everyday life.”

The Ai+ Laptab is a key step in Ai+’s broader connected ecosystem, spanning smartphones, wearables, TWS, and now, computing. Soon, users will experience deep software continuity across Ai+ devices, with seamless handoffs and integrated experiences.

In keeping with its equity-first vision, Ai+ will be launching the Laptab at disruptive price points, making high-performance, clean-design technology accessible to a wider segment of India’s youth and digital-first workforce. It’s an offering that’s built for Gen Z and young professionals who want sleek design, all-day battery, a stylus for creativity, a keyboard for productivity, and a clean software experience to tie it all together.

The Q1 reveal will showcase the full Laptab lineup, feature demonstrations, and provide pricing details, all aimed at making premium utility accessible to a broader Indian audience.

A systematic withdrawal plan helps you convert an investment corpus into a steady stream of cashflow while keeping exposure to markets. An SWP calculator is a simple tool that may help you estimate periodic withdrawals, the likely longevity of your corpus and the potential impact of assumed returns. This article explains how to use an SWP calculator, what inputs to check, and how to interpret results so you may make more informed decisions.

Using an SWP calculator for your finances

The calculator is an aid, not a prediction tool. It may provide only an indicative picture.

What is an SWP calculator

An SWP calculator is an online or spreadsheet-based tool that models periodic withdrawals from a mutual fund investment corpus. It uses inputs such as your initial corpus, withdrawal amount and frequency, assumed rate of return and time horizon to project how long the corpus may last. The output helps you understand trade-offs between withdrawal size and sustainability without giving any guarantees.

Key inputs to enter

When you use an SWP calculator, check these inputs carefully:

• Initial corpus: The total amount you must start with. Enter the net amount available for withdrawal.

• Withdrawal amount and frequency: Monthly, quarterly or annual withdrawals, choose the option that fits your cashflow needs.

• Assumed rate of return: Use a reasonable estimate for expected returns over your horizon. Use conservative assumptions if you prefer caution.

• Time horizon: How many years you expect to run withdrawals or leave this open to see how long the corpus may last.

• Inflation adjustment: Some calculators allow you to adjust for inflation; if available, use it to view real purchasing power.

Always double-check that figures are in the correct units (for example, annualised percentage for returns) before proceeding.

How to run the calculation

1. Enter the initial corpus and the withdrawal amount (for example, Rs. 10,000 monthly).

2. Select the withdrawal frequency, monthly is the most common for retirement-style income.

3. Input the assumed annual return (for instance, 6–8% nominal). Choose an assumption that reflects your risk tolerance and asset allocation.

4. Choose whether withdrawals are fixed nominal amounts or inflation indexed.

5. Run the calculation to view projected corpus longevity, balance trajectories and any summary tables the tool provides.

Example: If you start with a corpus of Rs. 10,00,000 and withdraw Rs. 10,000 monthly at an assumed return of 7% per annum, the calculator will show how the corpus may reduce over time and the approximate number of years it may last.

For illustrative purpose only

How to interpret results

Outputs from an SWP calculator typically include the projected remaining corpus over time and the estimated number of years the corpus may support the chosen withdrawal. Treat these outputs as scenarios rather than promises. Key points to note:

• If the projected corpus declines rapidly, you may choose to reduce the withdrawal or reconsider the assumed return.

• If the corpus grows or sustains the withdrawals, the assumptions may be generous; examine whether they match your risk preference.

• Use multiple scenarios, conservative, moderate and optimistic assumptions, to understand the range of possible outcomes. Using scenario analysis may increase clarity about downside risk.

Common pitfalls to avoid

• Relying on a single assumed return. Markets fluctuate; a single figure may not capture variability.

• Forgetting tax and costs. Some withdrawals may trigger tax events or incur fund charges that reduce net income.

• Ignoring inflation. Fixed nominal withdrawals may lose purchasing power over time unless adjusted.

Using results to design your withdrawal plan

An SWP calculator may help when combined with broader planning. Use it to test withdrawal sizes and frequencies that match your lifestyle needs. If you find the corpus may not last if required, you may choose to lower withdrawals, adjust asset allocation, or consider partial annuitisation depending on your objectives and constraints.

Secondary considerations

A systematic withdrawal plan should align with your overall financial goals and risk tolerance. Review your withdrawal strategy periodically and re-run the SWP calculator after major life events or market shifts to see how projections change. Use the exercise to set realistic expectations about income sustainability and the likelihood that your corpus may meet long-term needs.

Conclusion

An SWP calculator is a practical way to model how withdrawals may affect your corpus over time. It helps you compare options, run scenario analyses and set withdrawal levels that may better match your income needs. Use conservative assumptions, account for taxes and inflation, and review results periodically so your plan may remain aligned with changing circumstances.

The calculator is an aid, not a prediction tool. It may provide only an indicative picture.

Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.

Natuzzi Italia brings its global design narrative to Mumbai this November, led by Pasquale Junior Natuzzi, the third-generation voice shaping the brand’s contemporary direction. His visit marks a moment of connection between the brand’s Mediterranean roots and India’s growing appetite for thoughtful, culturally informed design. He arrives in Mumbai to present Natuzzi Italia’s latest design explorations – a convergence of material research, crafted form and the evolving meaning of home.
 

Pasquale Junior Natuzzi brings Natuzzi Italia’s global design narrative to Mumbai

Under his direction, Natuzzi Italia has expanded beyond furniture into a wider vision of living, where space, emotion and cultural memory come together. His approach deepens the brand’s dialogue with architects, designers and design-led audiences, introducing new proposals from the 2025 Collection ‘Rooted in Harmony’. The pieces reflect the brand’s ongoing research into heritage, spatial behaviour and contemporary living, offering a perspective shaped by place and global exchange.
 

As part of the ongoing dialogue with the design community, Pasquale Junior Natuzzi will join the Design Mumbai Exchange programme alongside international architects and designers, speaking on the role of design in shaping cultural and spatial futures, where Natuzzi Italia will also be presenting its showcase from November 26-29 in Mumbai.
 

Showcase Highlights:
 

AMAMA – Designed by Andrea Steidl
Following the success of the multi-award-winning Mirai, Andrea Steidl returns to collaborate with Natuzzi Italia with Amama, a modular island system that reinterprets conviviality and spatial versatility. The design offers dual-facing configurations and multifunctional components such as shelves, table elements and storage, opening new possibilities for zoning and flexible living. The collection includes a dining table and a sideboard built around the same architectural and structural approach. 
 

FIORE – Designed by Marcantonio
In the fourth collaboration with Marcantonio, Natuzzi Italia presents Fiore, an armchair inspired by the structural language of nature. The design studies the movement and geometry of petals, translating them into a sculptural form that holds space while remaining functional within contemporary interiors. 
 

RADICE – Rug by Giuseppe Gioia
Completing the living environment is Radice, a rug designed by Giuseppe Gioia from the Natuzzi Design Center. The piece draws from the symbolic “root” of the 2025 collection, expressed through a distinctive shape and an intertwined circular motif designed to anchor and visually connect the surrounding furniture. 
 

Together, the three projects reflect a new chapter for Natuzzi Italia: the intersection of cultural memory, material experimentation, spatial design and collaboration with global design voices.
 

Visit Natuzzi Italia at Design Mumbai from November 26-29 at Jio World Garden, Mumbai. 

Instagram – www.instagram.com/natuzziitaliamumbai 
Website – www.natuzzi.com/in/en

Former England football captain and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Sir David Beckham visited an MJPAPBCWREIS residential school for girls in Visakhapatnam today to see Project-Based Learning (PBL) in action. His visit is part of a wider Mantra4Change programme supported by Education Above All that is improving classrooms across Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, and Nagaland.

Sir David Beckham with students of  MJPAPBCWREIS residential school  in Visakhapatnam

Sir David’s visit, confirmed in a social media update posted late on Wednesday night, brought national attention to a hands-on approach to schooling that places student projects, teamwork, and real-world problem-solving at the centre of learning.

Mantra4Change, in partnership with the MJP Society and supported by Education Above All (EAA), has redesigned teaching and learning in 107 residential schools across Andhra Pradesh, reaching roughly 18,000 students and building the capacity of 107 school leaders. The PBL programme has been integrated across English, Mathematics, and Science, turning traditional classrooms into active learning spaces where students learn by doing, collaborate on projects, and present solutions to community problems.

On the ground in Visakhapatnam

During his visit, Sir David met with students and teachers at the school, observing how Project-Based Learning comes alive in everyday classrooms. He began by sitting in on a live PBL session before being guided by students to a small exhibition where children presented projects across English, Mathematics, and Science.

He also joined a group of students for a tree-planting activity, where children demonstrated how they scan and label saplings with digital IDs. In the school library, Sir David participated in a reading circle and spoke with children about their favourite books. The visit concluded outdoors, where students invited him to join a lively ‘one-touch’ football drill. School leaders shared how these varied activities reflect the PBL approach, boosting student confidence, encouraging collaboration, and helping children connect learning with real-life contexts. 

In his Instagram post, Sir David said, “Great day in India going back to school supporting Education Above All’s project based learning initiatives so much fun.”

“It gives us great joy that Sir David Beckham chose to visit one of our MJP schools. It’s a proud moment for all of us in the MJP society. His presence at our school in a place like Kothavalasa is a beautiful reminder that when we work with the right intent and dedication, extraordinary things can happen. Project-based Learning has energised our classrooms, and we hope to keep nurturing this spirit of learning,” said P. Madhavi Latha, Secretary, MJPAPBCWREIS.

Project-Based Learning shifts the focus from rote recall to applied understanding. It builds transferable skills, communication, critical thinking, creativity, while lifting measurable academic outcomes. The Mantra4Change-EAA partnership is an example of how targeted support, teacher development and curriculum redesign can scale classroom practices across states.

Santosh More, Co-Founder of Mantra4Change, said, “Sir David Beckham’s visit is an inspiration for all of us and a powerful signal that innovation in our government schools matters. Project-Based Learning is raising children’s aspirations, and moments like this strengthen our resolve to work with governments and communities to make such learning the norm.”

The visit also adds fresh momentum to Shikshagraha, a people-powered national movement being co-built by Mantra4Change that is working to improve one million public schools across India. Sir David’s presence and public endorsement of innovative classroom practices like Project-Based Learning strengthens the movement’s core message: that communities, teachers, governments and civil society must come together to transform everyday schooling. The visibility generated by this visit helps amplify Shikshagraha’s call for collective action and accelerates its efforts to ensure every child in a public school has access to meaningful, engaging and future-ready learning.

About Mantra4Change

Mantra4Change is a non-profit organisation transforming public schools in India through educational leadership. Our approach involves driving continuous school improvements by empowering education leaders, transforming schools to create an enriching learning experience, and inspiring civil society organisations across India to collectively work towards transformation in education.

We aim to drive sustainable, continuous school improvements across 150,000 schools by 2025.