Lokmat Media Ltd. Unveiled 'Icons of Pune 2011'

Media News

Mumbai, November 9, 2011

Lokmat Media Ltd., one of the largest media houses in India unveiled the first-of-its-kind coffee table book “Icons of Pune” honouring the inspiring stalwarts who have helped shape Pune into a multi-dimensional business epicentre today. The unveiling of this magnum opus initiative was held by the hands of Hon'ble Finance Minister Mr. Pranab Mukherjee, Hon'ble Chief Minister Mr. Prithviraj Chavan, Shri. Rajendra Darda, Minister of Education and Vice Chairman & Joint Managing Director Lokmat Media Ltd. alongside Shri. Vijay Darda, Chairman, Lokmat Media Ltd.

Icons of Pune by Lokmat Media Ltd. is a compilation of profiles of men and women who have shaped the Pune of the 21st century and are the leaders who shall shape the future. It depicts the success stories of the leading industrialists of Pune, a first-of-its-kind initiative. It traces the journey of some legendary entrepreneurs like – Mr. Rajiv Bajaj (M.D., Bajaj Auto Ltd.), Mr. Amit Kalyani (Executive Director, Bharat Forge), Mr. Sanjay Kirloskar (Chairman & M.D., Kirloskar Brothers Ltd.), Mr. Sanjiv Bajaj (M.D., Bajaj Financial Services), Mr. Ravi Pandit (Chairman & Group CEO, Kpit Cummins) and many others.

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Pranab Mukherjee, Finance Minister, India said “Pune is the land of thinkers, writers and speakers since the time of Mahatma Gandhi. Puneites are experimental and avid risk takers in different fields. “Icons of Pune” from Lokmat is a great effort to encourage budding entrepreneurs to achieve greater success in future and take Pune to be global city in days to come”.

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Prithviraj Chavan, Chief Minister, Maharashtra said “Pune has carved a niche for itself as an Industrial Zone, hub for colleges and educational institute. “Icons Of Pune” is a Symbolic gesture for the tycoons featured in this, who have grown and created a mark for themselves in various walks of life. Some icons featured in the “Icons of Pune” belong to long lineage of entrepreneur, while others are first generation geniuses.”

Announcing this unique initiative, Mr. Vijay Darda, Chairman, Lokmat Media Ltd. said, “We are extremely glad to honour the industry stalwarts who have helped shape the Pune of today through “Icons of Pune”. Over the years, Pune has demonstrated immense potential across various sectors and domains. If Mumbai is the financial capital of India, Pune deserves to be the cultural and educational capital of the country.”

Further into the event, Lokmat Media Ltd. also announced its new offering, Shlok, an initiative by Mrs. Sheetal Darda and is committed to promoting art and culture. Shlok will provide a platform to talented budding artists and help them reach out to illuminated horizons beyond their reach and showcase their creativity.

With more than 5 million ambitious and upwardly mobile citizens, Pune has already emerged as one of the top ten cities in an increasingly empowered India. Pune has metamorphosed from a middle class town to a throbbing hub of multi-dimensional business activities that have seamlessly integrated into a globalised economy. This transformation of the city of Pune has been navigated through challenging times by entrepreneurs. They have demonstrated the skill, tenacity and the patience to reach the top.

For further information, please contact:

360 Degree Public Relations

Reshma Golatkar

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Email: reshma@360degreepr.com