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The Mahindra Group has announced the appointment of Asha Kharga as the Chief Customer Officer of Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd. (MHRIL), effective July 1, 2025, the company stated in an exchange filing. Kharga currently serves as the CCO for the Mahindra Group.

Kharga brings with her over 28 years of experience in building customer-centric premium brands across sectors. Her track record of strategic insight, creative leadership, and deep understanding of consumer behaviour positions her well to lead Mahindra Holidays' next phase of growth.

She is expected to drive the company's brand transformation, guest experience innovation, and marketing strategy.

Speaking on the announcement, Dr. Anish Shah, Group CEO & MD, Mahindra Group said, "Asha’s expertise will be key to leveraging the potential of Mahindra Holidays, as we seek to transform and significantly grow the business. Her strength in aligning brand vision with customer experiences will be valuable for the business. This move is consistent with the Group’s philosophy to place strong leaders in areas of meaningful value creation.”

Manoj Bhat, MD & CEO, MHRIL, added, “We are delighted to welcome Asha to our leadership team.
We have ambitious plans as we expand our resort footprint to 10,000 keys by 2030. Our focus is on
premium offerings, and we wanted a seasoned leader with the expertise to align brand vision with
exceptional experiences. Her appointment will accelerate building a business that meets the changing
needs of leisure travellers."

On her new role, Kharga said, “I’m eager to contribute to the next chapter by focusing on the emotional, experiential, and cultural aspects that define our hospitality offerings. Our greatest differentiator will not just be our presence, but how we make people feel when they stay with us.”

Asha Kharga appointed as chief customer officer at Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd.

Paritosh Kashyap, who is currently the group president and head - wholesale banking group, has been elevated to the position of executive director, subject to regulatory approvals. He has been heading the wholesale banking group since 2022.

It was also announced that Shanti Ekambaram, who is the deputy managing director, would be retiring from her role, effective October 31, 2025.

Kashyap has been with the Kotak Mahindra Group for nearly three decades, and has contributed to various aspects of the business, which include advising banks, financial institutions, corporates and NBFCs on capital structuring, financing, securitization and more. 

As the group president and head - wholesale banking group, Kashyap's responsibilities included corporate banking, structured finance, infrastructure financing, debt capital markets, and trade and transaction banking. 

Ekambaram has been with the Kotak Mahindra Group since 1991, as per the media report, has shaped the group's growth and evolution during her tenure.

Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/bhavnish-lathia-appointed-as-chief-technology-officer-at-kotak-mahindra-bank-59950.htm">Bhavnish Lathia appointed as Chief Technology Officer at Kotak Mahindra Bank</a>

Kotak Mahindra Bank promotes Paritosh Kashyap to Executive Director

Pratik Mazumder has resigned from his role as Chief Marketing Officer, Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd. (MHRIL) announced on Friday. His departure, effective at the close of business on May 31, 2025, marks the end of his tenure as a senior management executive.

A veteran of the marketing and digital media landscape, Mazumder brings more than 25 years of experience across sectors including entertainment, communications and technology. Over the course of his career, he has held leadership roles at Times Internet, Bharti Airtel, Yatra Online and OgilvyOne Worldwide.

Mazumder is recognized for his contributions to brand storytelling and digital innovation. He played a pivotal role in building Gaana, the music streaming platform, and has twice been honored with Cannes Lions awards for creative excellence. Mazumder was also the founder and chief executive of Trojan Horse Media, a digital content and storytelling venture.

The company did not disclose details about his next steps, noting only that he is leaving to "pursue other interests."

Mahindra Holidays & Resorts recorded its largest-ever annual expansion in fiscal year 2025, adding 520 keys to its portfolio. The growth brought the company’s total resort inventory to 5,847 keys as of March 31, 2025.

The company reported an 8 percent year-on-year increase in annual resort revenue, reaching ₹396 crore in FY25, driven by sustained demand and a robust occupancy rate of 84 percent across its expanded network. It hosted more than 1.4 million guests over the course of the year.

In the fourth quarter, the company added 149 keys, with new managed properties opening in Dindi, Andhra Pradesh, and Ranthambore, Rajasthan. The second phase of its resort development in Pavagadh, Gujarat, was also completed during the period.






Mahindra Holidays CMO Pratik Mazumder quits to pursue new endeavors

Mahindra & Mahindra, which recently announced its quarter 4 results for the fiscal year 2025, the Auto and Farm Sector CEO of the company, Rajesh Jejurikar, highlighted about the robust demand for Roxx, including three-door Thar in the country. In an interview with CNBC-TV18, Jejurikar said, "Thar, as a portfolio, in April, crossed 10,000 for the first time. So three door and five door together, we sold more than 10,000".

Five years ago, the company sold 600 units of Thar a month, which now has increased to more than 10,000 units, he added.

In addition to the demand for SUVs, M&M's electric vehicles' waiting period is four months.

Further, Jejurikar has anticipated an improvement in urban demand in the next three to six months following the 28% growth in the SUV portfolio in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025.


He attributed the change in the income tax slab as the key factor behind the improvement in urban demand.

"Over the next three to six months, I believe urban demand will improve. One factor is the change in income tax slabs that started in April, which releases more cash. Interest rates are trending downward, which improves cash flow and borrowing costs for things like car loans. These factors are more significant for urban customers," Jejurikar said.

The M&M crossed 22% revenue market share and gained 1.8 share points in the SUV segment this year. 

Jejurikar said that the automaker does not chase volume market share of the SUVs, instead focusing on products with the highest brand recall.

"Every time we release a new product, we want people to say “wow.” If more customers feel the same, that leads to market share gains. But we don’t want to be seen as just another car on the road with no brand recall," he added.

The current market capitalisation of M&M stands at Rs 3,86,774.77 crore. The stock is currently trading at Rs 3,110 at 11 am on the BSE and has gained 37% over the last year.

Mahindra's Thar sales cross 10,000 units in April, highest ever

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


Read More: <a href="https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/cxo-moves-exec-movements-across-coca-cola-india-parle-products-linkedin-publicis-groupe-and-more-54600.htm">CXO Moves: Exec movements across Coca-Cola India, Parle Products, LinkedIn, Publicis Groupe and more</a>

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.”

MAHINDRA