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In a recent standup performance, comedian Kunal Kamra took a jibe at industrialist Anand Mahindra, brewing up controversy with his sharp humour.

A clip from the show, which is circulating on social media showcases Kamra mocking Mahindra's prolific social media presence and his remarks on AI.

"Anand Mahindra tweets about everything—thermodynamics, marine biology, radioactivity—except how to improve his own cars," Kamra joked.

He further poked fun at Mahindra's enthusiasm for AI, suggesting that people invite him to conferences sarcastically, but Mahindra takes them seriously.

Kamra also brought attention to Mahindra's response to a viral video of children playing on a double-decker bus during the Mumbai floods. Instead of addressing safety concerns, Mahindra posted the video on social media with the remark, "When life gives you lemons." Kamra referred to it as an example of misplaced optimism, mocking the industrialist's reaction.

The comedian didn't stop there, taking jabs at Indian businesses in general.

"Mahindra says we will create our own AI. You haven't even built something truly Indian yet, and now suddenly, you'll make everything?" Kamra quipped.

The performance has triggered a massive backlash online, especially on X (formerly Twitter). Supporters of Mahindra have expressed their disapproval, defending the industrialist's role in India's business landscape, while others accused Kamra of making unwarranted personal attacks.

However, this controversy is just one piece of the puzzle for Kamra.

The Mumbai Police have filed an FIR against him under charges of public mischief and defamation, stemming from another incident in the same performance where he allegedly mocked Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde.

The situation escalated further when a group of nearly 40 Shiv Sena workers reportedly vandalized the Habitat Studio in Mumbai’s Khar area, where Kamra’s show was filmed. 

They also ransacked a hotel housing the venue, shouting slogans in support of Shinde. In response, the police registered cases against 19 Shiv Sena members and detained several individuals involved in the attack.

The comedian’s parody of a song from Dil To Pagal Hai, which was deemed controversial, has drawn sharp criticism from the ruling Mahayuti alliance. Leaders have labelled Kamra a "contract comedian" and suggested that he might soon be forced to leave the country.

As of now, Kamra has not publicly responded to the backlash.

Kunal Kamra's controversial jabs at Anand Mahindra and Indian biz sparks backlash

Kotak Mahindra Bank today announced the appointment of Bhavnish Lathia as the new Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for the Bank.

Announcing the appointment, Ashok Vaswani, MD & CEO of Kotak Mahindra Bank, said, "Bhavnish has been instrumental in driving our technology initiatives for the last three years, building a world-class team of engineers to help drive our technology agenda. The rapid deployment of technology, with business leaders working closely with their respective technology teams, will be key to transforming our businesses for scale. This approach will drive customer satisfaction and organizational efficiency. And with Bhavnish's leadership, we will achieve our ambitious agenda and set the bar for technology leadership in the banking industry."

Bhavnish Lathia, CTO, Kotak Mahindra Bank said, "I am honoured to take on this new role at Kotak Mahindra Bank. Technology is a key driver of our strategy to transform for scale, and I am excited to lead our efforts in this area. Together with our talented team, we will continue to push the boundaries of innovation to deliver exceptional value to our customers and stakeholders."

Bhavnish's appointment is part of Kotak's strategic efforts to strengthen its leadership team and drive growth through innovation. His leadership will be crucial in ensuring that Kotak remains at the forefront of technological advancements in the banking sector.

Read More: <a href="https://cms.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/cxo-moves-exec-movements-across-bajaj-auto-mccann-worldgroup-raymond-limited-google-flipkart-and-more-59935.html">CXO Moves: Exec movements across Bajaj Auto, McCann Worldgroup, Raymond Limited, Google, Flipkart and more</a>

Bhavnish Lathia appointed as Chief Technology Officer at Kotak Mahindra Bank

Mondays may be dreaded by many, but for business tycoon Anand Mahindra, they are an opportunity to inspire millions.

This week, the Mahindra Group Chairman took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to share an extraordinary example of perseverance and focus—an 8-year-old contestant, Assam's Binita Chhetry, on Britain's Got Talent whose sheer determination and practice left him in awe. 

Mahindra spotlighted the young girl's remarkable mastery over her body, emphasizing that such precision comes only from relentless practice.

Her unshakeable focus, he noted, was a perfect embodiment of discipline and ambition—whether aimed at achieving an elite-level skill or something as simple as building her dream "Pink Princess House."

"Just 8 years old. World class. Steel-willed; Because that kind of mastery over her body comes only with intense Practice. And with an unwavering focus on her Ambition, even if it’s just a ‘Pink Princess House.’ She’s my #MondayMotivation," Mahindra wrote in his post, lauding her dedication as a perfect example of #MondayMotivation.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Just 8 years old. World class. Steel-willed; Because that kind of mastery over her body comes only with intense Practice. And with an unwavering focus on her Ambition, even if it’s just a ‘Pink Princess House’ She’s my <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MondayMotivation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MondayMotivation</a> <a href="https://t.co/8gCHwYx6m9">pic.twitter.com/8gCHwYx6m9</a>&mdash; anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) <a href="https://twitter.com/anandmahindra/status/1896384117077631250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 3, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The post quickly gained traction, with social media users expressing admiration for the girl’s talent and the powerful message behind Mahindra’s words. 

Many were in awe of the young achiever’s ability, calling it "amazing" and "excellent."

One commenter marvelled at the "scintillating performance with dimensionless aerobics," while another described it as the “perfect start to the week.” The flood of positive reactions included enthusiastic thumbs-up emojis and heartfelt messages such as "touching" and "awesome."

Anand Mahindra's #MondayMotivation post on 8-year-old's grit has internet in awe

Keep up with all the key people movements in the brand marketing ecosystem in Storyboard18’s CXO Moves. Here’s a round-up of the executives who've moved jobs, got bigger roles, switched industries and more.


<img src="https://images.storyboard18.com/storyboard18/2025/02/3-2025-02-fff717bbea0d6fa4e3ef6775fb47f89c.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="500" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-55375" />


Pradeep Bakshi


Previous: Managing director and chief executive officer, Voltas


On January 29, Tata owned Voltas, a home appliances company, announced that its managing director and chief executive officer Pradeep Bakshi will be stepping down post the completion of his term in August. Bakshi, who has been with the company for over two decades, has three decades of experience in the consumer durable industry.


<img src="https://images.storyboard18.com/storyboard18/2025/02/4-2025-02-e0b9baa0c2c7f67a64931c398e9d95f8.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="500" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-55377" />


Ketan Desai


Previous: Chief operating officer, Grey


Present: Managing director, Monks India


S4 Capital’s Monks India has named Ketan Desai as managing director. He brings over 20 years of agency leadership experience, most recently serving as WPP Grey’s Chief Operating Officer.


Sridhar Vembu


Previous: CEO, Zoho 


Present: Chief scientist, Zoho


Sridhar Vembu, technology company Zoho Corporation's founder and chief executive officer, has stepped down from his position. He will now take up the position of chief scientist, and will concentrate his energy in the areas of artificial intelligence and deep tech.


<img src="https://images.storyboard18.com/storyboard18/2025/02/1-2025-02-e84d263c998df37a6f959f34a753aacd.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="500" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-55378" />


Rajesh Gopal


Previous: Chief information officer, Kimberly-Clark


Present: Global chief digital officer, Tata Consumer Products


Tata Consumer Products has appointed Rajesh Gopal in a new role. He has worked across Federal Mogul, i2 Technologies, Unilever, L'Oréal and ITC Limited.


<img src="https://images.storyboard18.com/storyboard18/2025/02/2-2025-02-1136a116de63246191e7451fd5778358.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="500" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-55379" />


Anu Raj


Previous: Chief marketing officer, Aditya Birla Health Insurance Company


Present: Head of marketing, Mahindra Finance


Mahindra Finance has Anu Raj as head of marketing. She started her career at Equus Advertising and then joined Deutsche Bank, and then worked at IndusInd Bank, where she handled the overall brand and marketing strategy across all touch-points for all asset products, corporate banking, internal and CSR communications.


Parag Satpute


Previous: President and Senior Vice President, Bridgestone Mobility Solutions


Present: MD and Group CEO, Greaves Cotton


Greaves Cotton has appointed Parag Satpute as managing director and group Chief Executive Officer. He has also been appointed as the key managerial personnel, and his role will be effective starting April 14 for a period of five years.


Satpute began his career as a sales engineer at Grindwell Norton and went on to work across Sandvik Asia, Swedish Chamber of Commerce India, CII, ASSOCHAM and Bridgestone Mobility Solutions.


Mihir Karkare


Previous: Managing director, Mirum India


Mihir Karkare has moved on from Mirum India. Karkare co-founded Social Wavelength in 2009, which would later become Mirum India after being acquired by WPP just before the agency's fifth anniversary. He has also worked at e-Emphasys Technologies.


Shalin Bhatt


Present: Head - dining vertical, Zomato


Zomato has appointed Shalin Bhatt to head the dining vertical. Bhatt, who had left Zomato in 2021, and re-joined the company again in 2024, was formally made the head of dining as Sankalp Kathuria had stepped down last month.


Bhatt, who holds an MBA from IIM-A, began his career at MediaCom Singapore, and then joined IDG Ventures India, and then Matrix Partners India. From there, he moved to Zomato as the associate vice president - user growth and marketing, and was elevated to lead as the head of growth.


Wolfgang Prock-Schauer


Previous: Chief operating officer, IndiGo

Wolfgang Prock-Schauer, erstwhile chief operating officer and Senior Management Personnel, InterGlobe Aviation Limited (Indigo) has retired from services of the Company, with effect from close of business hours on January 30, 2025. Prock-Schauer had been leading the operations at IndiGo for the past seven years (since 2018).


Compiled by Kashmeera Sambamurthy


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CXO Moves: Exec movements across Voltas, Monks India, Tata Consumer Products, Mahindra Finance and more

Anu Raj has been named by Mahindra Finance as its new head of marketing and corporate communication, effective from March 3, 2025, the company stated in an exchange filing. In her previous role, Raj led Aditya Birla Health Insurance as chief marketing officer.

Raj, who holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Calcutta University, has over two and a half decades of extensive experience in advertising, marketing, branding, digital marketing, business development, brand building/ management, and communications.

She started her career at Equus Advertising and then joined Deutsche Bank where he was elevated to head as head - marketing, retail banking, India. Then, she joined IndusInd Bank, where as the senior vice president- marketing (Assets) & corporate communications, she handled the overall brand and marketing strategy across all touch-points for all asset products, corporate banking, internal and CSR communications. 

Raj was also involved in strategizing and implementing digital advertising campaigns aimed at brand building, new customer acquisition strategy through various digital channels and content marketing strategies. She was also a part of the integration team during the business transition from Deutsche Bank to IndusInd Bank.

Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/zomato-onboards-shalin-bhatt-to-head-the-dining-vertical-54824.htm">Zomato onboards Shalin Bhatt to head the dining vertical</a>

Mahindra Finance appoints Anu Raj as the head of marketing

Anand Mahindra, the Chairperson of the Mahindra Group, has offered a pointed critique of recent comments made by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Chairman SN Subrahmanyan, who suggested that employees should work 90-hour weeks, including Sundays, to remain competitive. Speaking at the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025 in New Delhi, Mahindra emphasized that the focus should be on the quality of work rather than its sheer volume, during a conversation with Firstpost's Managing Editor, Palki Sharma. 

<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/number-of-hours-of-work-dont-matter-quality-of-work-does-says-bajaj-auto-md-53016.htm">Read more: 'Number of hours of work don't matter, quality of work does,' says Bajaj Auto MD</a>

“I believe it’s not about how many hours you work, but the impact and value you create during that time,” Mahindra said. “If you’re not spending time at home, with friends, reading, or reflecting, how can you possibly make the right decisions?”

Mahindra also discussed his personal approach to time management, particularly regarding his presence on social media. He clarified that his activity on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) is driven not by loneliness, but by the desire to leverage its immense business potential. “I’m not on X because I’m lonely,” Mahindra said. “My wife is wonderful, and I enjoy spending time with her. I use social media because it’s an extraordinary business tool. I get direct feedback from 11 million people on a single platform. That’s invaluable.”

Subrahmanyan’s comments earlier this week triggered significant backlash, prompting a response from L&T. In a statement to Moneycontrol, an L&T spokesperson defended the chairman’s remarks, placing them in the context of the company’s broader mission. “For over eight decades, we have been shaping India’s infrastructure, industries, and technological capabilities,” the spokesperson stated. “We believe this is India’s decade, and it demands collective dedication to drive progress. The chairman’s remarks reflect this larger ambition.”

Anand Mahindra on the 90-Hour workweek debate: "Quality Over Quantity"

Kotak Mahindra Bank announced the resignation of its Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Milind Nagnur. As per the company, the resignation is effective from February 15, 2025. In a filing submitted to the stock exchanges, the bank confirmed that Nagnur had stepped down due to personal reasons, with plans to relocate to the United States to care for family members.

Nagnur, who has been with the bank for a significant period, expressed his decision to resign in a letter dated January 3, citing his family responsibilities as the key factor behind his departure. Kotak Mahindra Bank added that an interim leadership structure had been put in place to ensure continuity in operations during this transition period.

Milind Nagnur’s departure comes at a critical time for Kotak Mahindra Bank, which has been grappling with regulatory challenges. In April 2024, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had imposed a ban on the bank, barring it from onboarding new customers via its online and mobile banking channels, as well as from issuing new credit cards. The RBI’s action was based on findings of serious deficiencies in the bank's IT inventory and user access management.

Kotak Mahindra Bank’s Managing Director and CEO, Ashok Vaswani, had previously highlighted that addressing the embargo and ensuring the bank's compliance with RBI’s directives was a top priority. Speaking to Moneycontrol in October 2024, Vaswani stressed that the bank was working diligently to resolve the regulatory issues. He also mentioned that the bank's new mobile app, currently in beta testing, was designed to enhance the customer experience once the ban is lifted.

“RBI is telling us to make sure we do right by the customer. There are different ways of getting there. It could be bans or fines. Right now, they’re going down the ban way. Did it light a fire under us; it surely did. I am spending a lot of my time on this technology issue,” Vaswani had stated.

The bank has since focused on making necessary improvements in its digital infrastructure, with hopes that the restrictions will be lifted once compliance is fully ensured. Kotak Mahindra Bank aims to leverage its strengthened digital capabilities for customer acquisition in the future.

Kotak Mahindra Bank’s COO and CTO Milind Nagnur resigns, cites personal reasons

In a New Year message to employees, Anand Mahindra of the Mahindra Group, highlighted the company's remarkable strides in the electric vehicle (EV) market with its premium offerings, the BE 6 and XUV 9e. Reflecting on the positive reception these models have garnered, Mahindra remarked, "It’s difficult to exaggerate the positive reaction these EVs have evoked, surpassing even our own expectations. Which makes me question what lies at the heart of this surge of interest and goodwill?"

Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) has made a bold move in the domestic electric vehicle sector, unveiling competitive pricing for the highly anticipated BE 6 and XUV 9e electric SUVs. The company’s strategic push has positioned it as the 11th most valuable automobile manufacturer globally. Mahindra also shared significant milestones, including M&M’s dominance among the NIFTY50 companies since 2002, where it has posted the highest compounded annual share price growth. Last year alone, M&M saw its stock price soar by 77%.

In addition to the automotive successes, Mahindra Group has reinforced its commitment to sustainability and growth across various sectors. Mahindra Susten has made significant strides in renewable energy, amassing a project pipeline of 3.3GWp. Meanwhile, Mahindra Lifespace continues to develop eco-friendly real estate, and the company’s Last Mile Mobility arm remains a leader in India’s electric three-wheeler market. Mahindra Finance has crossed a major milestone, with its loan book surpassing Rs1.1 lakh crore, further solidifying its financial strength. The Tractor business has continued to dominate the market, cementing the company’s diverse portfolio.

The BE 6, priced at Rs18.9 lakh (ex-showroom), and the XUV 9e, anticipated to cost around Rs23.59 lakh, represent Mahindra's bold innovation and commitment to shaping the future of electric mobility. These vehicles offer a compelling alternative to traditional models in the EV market. In his letter, Mahindra referenced the Cambridge Dictionary's 2024 Word of the Year, “Manifest,” interpreting it as a call to transform aspirations into tangible outcomes. He highlighted how these new models epitomize the company’s ability to bring visionary ideas to life.

Sales of the BE 6 and XUV 9e are set to begin this month, with deliveries expected to commence by the end of February 2025. This marks a pivotal moment for Mahindra, as it expands its electric vehicle lineup and strengthens its foothold in the rapidly growing EV market.

Mahindra Group eyes EV leadership with launch of BE 6 and XUV 9e SUVs

Mahindra & Mahindra Limited has created a centralized resource pool of data and AI expertise to spur Mahindra group’s initiatives in the domain. Devendra Sharnagat, chief data and analytics officer (CDAO) of Mahindra Finance has been transferred to the AI division of M&M as ‘Sr. Vice President- Mahindra AI Division’. 

Consequently, he has ceased to be SMP of the Company. He has been deputed to the company to oversee the data analytics function of the company and would participate in AI initiatives of other Mahindra group companies as well.

Sharnagat, who began his career as a an account executive at Direxions Marketing Services, went on to work across HDFC Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank. In his previous role at Mahindra Finance, Sharnagat led Data and Analytics function for financial services sector. He drove business efficiency and productivity through data and digital.

As HDFC Bank's former assistant vice president - marketing analytics, Sharnagat led a team of business Analysts for managing analytical projects across Liability Products, Direct Banking Channels, Premier Banking, Depository Services, Forex Services and Prepaid Cards. His key responsibility included creating strategic Analytical framework to meet the business objectives set for the financial year across portfolios.

Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/zeptos-chro-martin-dinesh-gomez-steps-down-50007.htm">Zepto's CHRO Martin Dinesh Gomez quits; Chandan Mendiratta to be Chief Culture Officer</a>

Mahindra Group names Devendra Sharnagat as SVP - AI Division

Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) has officially renamed its recently launched electric SUV from 'BE 6E' to 'BE 6'. This decision comes in response to an ongoing legal battle with InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of IndiGo Airlines, over a potential trademark infringement, as per reports.

While M&M has opted for this change, the company has affirmed its intention to continue challenging IndiGo's claim to the '6E' trademark in court, the reports further clarified.

The legal dispute between Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) and InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of IndiGo Airlines, escalated after InterGlobe alleged that M&M's newly launched electric SUV, 'BE 6E', infringed upon IndiGo's well-known '6E' trademark.

M&M, however, countered these claims, asserting that its product branding is clearly distinguishable from IndiGo's. The company argued that the fundamental differences in the nature of the products, with IndiGo being an airline and the SUV belonging to the automotive sector (classified under trademark Class 12), significantly reduce the possibility of consumer confusion.

On November 26th, Mahindra unveiled its latest electric SUV models, the BE 6E and the XUV 9E. However, the launch was soon overshadowed by a trademark dispute with InterGlobe Aviation, the parent company of IndiGo Airlines.

InterGlobe alleged that Mahindra's 'BE 6E' infringed on its widely recognized '6E' trademark. Mahindra, in response, highlighted inconsistencies in InterGlobe's stance, pointing out that Tata Motors had previously objected to InterGlobe's use of the 'IndiGo' mark due to its existing Tata Indigo car brand. Mahindra questioned why InterGlobe, while continuing to use 'IndiGo' in the airline industry, was objecting to 'BE 6E' in the automotive sector.

Mahindra characterized InterGlobe's objection as unfounded and potentially harmful, as it could set a precedent for monopolising alphanumeric marks. The company emphasized that the mark 'BE 6E' is distinct from the standalone '6E' and has no connection to the airline industry.

Despite renaming the SUV to 'BE 6', Mahindra expressed disappointment over the conflict, deeming it unnecessary and counterproductive for two prominent Indian companies. The company advocated for mutual support and growth rather than engaging in such disputes.

While prioritizing customer experience, Mahindra remains committed to defending the original branding. The company has stated that it will vigorously contest the legal issue and reserve its rights to the brand name 'BE 6E'.

Read More:<a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-marketing/indigo-mahindra-battle-for-6e-explained-a-look-at-existing-laws-applicable-to-current-dispute-49453.htm" rel="noopener" target="_blank">IndiGo-Mahindra 'battle' for 6E explained: A look at existing laws applicable to current dispute</a>

MAHINDRA