Microsoft has a new AI feature that handles all the heavy lifting like research, formatting, analysis and design. The new feature is called Agent Mode in Copilot. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella demonstrated this feature within Microsoft 365 on platform ‘X’ (on September 29, 2025). The idea was to enable AI to multitask for users. So, how does this work differently in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint? Is it just a feature for regular users, or does it also come in handy for big companies? Does this handle the large datasets well? For that, learn more.
Satya Nadella Officially Announcing Agent Mode on PowerPoint
How It Works in Different Apps
Word & PowerPoint – From Idea to Full Document/Presentation
The AI works on simple commands, unlike you having to explain everything to it. Short and simple instructions, for instance, “Create a presentation about going back to offices.
So, Copilot will:
Research the topic for you.
Draft text content clearly.
Add relevant images and visuals to it.
Makes suggestions for slide designs and layouts.
Later, you can interact with the AI to change the tone of the presentation, ask it to focus on specific points or even pick different themes.
You can do all of this without leaving the app.
Such a task would typically require hours of work, but with this feature, Microsoft promises to reduce it to minutes.
Satya Nadella Officially Announcing Agent Mode on Excel
Excel – Data Without Formulas
Analysing data on Excel takes time, and the complicated formulas make it even tougher to handle. Not anymore.
With this AI mode, you can talk to the AI in plain English. For instance, “Analyse sales performance and show me trends.”
Copilot will:
Study your dataset thoroughly.
Do all the hard calculations for you.
Fix any errors found in the sheet.
And then provide you with the requested data in charts/graphs.
To clarify, the AI will also explain the steps it took to create one.
Satya Nadella Officially Announcing Agent Mode on Word
Word – Editing Made Easy
The manual editing of Word documents can take a long time, says hours.
With Copilot’s new feature:
It summarises long reports in a short time.
Can convert the bullet points to long paragraphs.
You ask the AI to rewrite the text to a clearer and more formal tone.
These feature operates within the document, ensuring your workflow remains uninterrupted.
The goal is to help you save time for content instead of formatting or wording.
The Bigger Picture
The company is launching such innovative features to take the lead in AI-assisted productivity.
However, there needs to be more clarity on whether these features are effective for large datasets, such as those used by major companies.
This article has been contributed by Mr. Jayesh Rajpurohit, Co-Founder & CEO Brick & Bolt
The real estate sector finds itself at a particularly interesting position with record pre-sale numbers, as listed developers are touting that they have recorded the best-ever quarter with total pre-sales growing 45% to INR 43,200 crore and achieving 31% of the targeted INR 1.4 lakh crore sales as per Kotak Institutional Equities. These statistics indicate strongly that Indian homebuyer preferences are undergoing a paradigm shift. They look at investment as a lucrative investment, but they also view it as a stepping stone for a better quality of life. Affordability does matter, but the average home buyer is looking for more.
The Indian real estate market has to meet this growing demand for homes that match the homebuyer’s lifestyle and offer long-term value and trust.
Pre-Sales Surge: A Mirror to Consumer Confidence
Pre-sales, or advance bookings of under-construction properties, are one of the most telling indicators of market sentiment. Rise in bookings for residential properties indicates that the post-COVID demand has risen.
During the 2024-25 financial year, as per ET Realty, the country’s 26 major listed real estate firms sold properties worth INR 1.62 lakh crore. Strong homebuyer confidence indicates that homeowners are becoming more risk-averse. In cities such as Mumbai, Pune, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, new launches and corresponding sales volume to the tune of 25-35% annual growth evidence of this observation.
Such reaffirm our observations on field. Today’s buyer is well-informed, decisive, and increasingly drawn to projects that promise more than just square footage. Plot buyers are highly aware and making choices that can match their standard of living. The rising demand for spacious, secure and privacy-enabled homes built by trusted construction partners is becoming the go-to choice. The festive season is also another occasion for home buyers to plan their purchases, a dream home being one of them.
The Shift Towards Comfortable Living
While the metros continue to see a positive growth, it is the Tier-II and Tier-III cities that are also indicating an increased demand for premium housing, with plotted developments, second homes and luxury villas on the rise. This growth spurt is not due to a lack of demand but rather a rise in aspirations. Post-pandemic lifestyle changes have redefined what plot owners consider essential—more space, flexible layouts, and private work areas are now basic expectations. HNIs also prefer to move away from the din of the city. There is a growing preference for homes that support hybrid work, children’s learning needs, and wellness, all of which are difficult to accommodate in small, budget units. Home buyers now carefully select furnishings of premium quality, invest in smart home technology, and seek out construction partners who are committed to sustainability and transparency.
The Importance of a Trustworthy Construction Partner
Several analysts have noted that the transition from aggressive expansion to a quality-driven market is also reflected in the shifting trend among home buyers. Plot Owners are now placing immense trust in the construction partner’s credibility. Plot owners invest in projects when they know that the construction partner or the developer will live up to their expectations and will deliver on their promises. A 2024 survey by Anarock also confirms that home buyers are now willing to pay a premium for timely delivery and for reputation.
It is the responsibility of the construction company to continually level up on their promises, build long-term relationships with Plot owners based on confidence, quality, communication, transparency and efficiency.
Amenities, Design, and Community: The New Differentiators
Home owners are consciously choosing from an array of options that can complement their lifestyle like swimming pools, co-working spaces, wellness zones and clubhouses. Better ventilation, natural lighting, green ratings, and energy-efficient features are important components for home buyers who seek out these offerings while locking down on a home. A recent study which highlighted that 58% of buyers prioritize amenities and design also cements this observation. They also take keen interest in the neighborhood, proximity to schools and hospitals, offices and retail.
Digitally Empowered, Financially Strong Buyers
With tech-driven construction transforming the way homebuyers view properties, as per the DataRePortal report, India had 806 million internet users, which is a penetration rate of 55.3% of the total population, and India’s digital transformation is playing a crucial role in this aspirational shift.
Homebuyers prefer clarity and transparency over timelines. They value real-time monitoring, they conduct extensive online research and compare everything from materials to construction partners, before investing. Home buyers are today equipped with disposable income, financial capability, stable interest rates and are making well-informed decisions. The recent GST rationalisation measures are also set to fuel this growth. These factors have made them confident, informed and aspirational buyers. Budgetary constraints no longer restrain the way homes are bought and built.
Digital workflows have enhanced the customer experience and reduced delays. Construction partners are now leveraging cutting-edge technology to meet the growing demands of this new breed of well-informed decision maker.
The new home buyer today is looking for more than just a home. They are also thinking about investment. Buyers have started purchasing homes as an investment strategy, keeping in mind long-term wealth building. These buyers are seeking properties in growth corridors with good future appreciation potential—without compromising on the quality of living. Construction partners and developers are also matching up to these trends with careful location planning, creating homes that deliver on both: an asset that is executed with finesse and has all the premium features at a strategic location.
What This Means for the Real Estate Industry
Evolution of Homebuyer Expectation
To match the evolution of the new buyer, construction partners will have to prioritise user experience. This upward surge in pre-sales is bound to grow in leaps and bounds as over 300 million people are expected to move to cities as per the ET Realty report. Homebuyers are now on the lookout for fresh thinking, moving beyond affordable housing to homes that can guarantee a better life and a better future for their next generation. Developers have to rise up to meet this demand by incorporating futuristic design and flawless planning. Redefining the experience of ‘home’ as a personal space where families can not only thrive but also build a future will be a crucial parameter for developers if they wish to compete and succeed in this competitive era of pre-sales and luxury living spaces.
Building for a Better Future
Bridging the aspirations of millions of people is a huge responsibility. Without executing plans that prioritise the aspirations of the homebuyers, construction partners will not be able to become a part of the transformation. This transformation is also impossible unless Tier I and Tier II cities are part of the conversation. For homebuyers who are invested in every brick of their home, construction partners must cement it with trust, values, transparency, technology, and commitment.
The Indian homebuyer has paved the path; it is now time for us to design and execute it to perfection.
This article has been contributed by Mr. Neeraj Agarwal, CEO of RuralShores Skills Academy
India’s workforce is undergoing a profound transformation, and now more so with automation, AI, and digital disruption redefining roles at an unprecedented pace. The skills in demand today, may look entirely different tomorrow. NASSCOM estimates that nearly 65% of the current job roles will evolve within next five years, underscoring the urgency for businesses to rethink how they prepare talent.
Amidst this transition, one model is gaining prominence, which is Hire-Train-Deploy (HTD). In contrast to age-old Learning & Development (L&D) initiatives that are based on long, theory-driven training, this focuses on speed and accuracy. It discovers potential candidates, trains them with job-related, future-proof skills, and deploys them in positions where they can contribute from day one. This combination of speed and precision is rapidly reshaping the manner in which corporate training is conducted within organizations.
The Emergence of the Hire-Train-Deploy Concept
The concept picked up a lot of attention over the last few years, particularly among sectors that experience severe skill deficiencies like IT, banking, healthcare, logistics, and customer service. Rather than training ahead of potential demand, businesses initially employ individuals who show aptitude and dedication, next equip them on exactly what is needed to succeed in the job, and lastly place them in a position nearly at once.
This focused method closes the gap between employment and employability, minimizing mismatches between higher education learning and industry needs. A case point is that a graduate can hold a degree in computer science but be short of skills in certain cloud tools or cybersecurity procedures that employers need. The model fills this last-mile skills gap by making the person work-capable within weeks as opposed to months.
In addition to efficiency, Hire-Train-Deploy also promotes inclusivity. It is employed by several organizations to increase activities in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, where access to pre-trained talent can be limited. By employing this model, organizations being able to create pipelines of professionals who are both culturally compatible and technically competent, accelerating integration into teams and minimizing attrition.
ROI vs. Traditional L&D Programs
One of the most important reasons why HTD is gaining popularity is that it offers a higher return on investment (ROI) over conventional L&D. Traditional long-term training programs, though invaluable for basic information, may demand considerable time and monetary investments without promising job retention or instant usability.
By design, it is demand-driven, lean, and focused. It is linked to the availability of jobs, and therefore, firms will only invest in skills they immediately need. This way, learning converts into productivity literally as soon as troops are deployed.
For workers, the ROI is equally straightforward. Rather than months of generic training, they get bite-sized, focused modules that immediately increase their employability. More significantly, they can visualize a clear line from learning to earning that breeds motivation and allegiance. This synergy of business efficiency and career growth makes this model a welcome contrast to conventional training investments.
The emergence of AI and automation has also up the urgency of Hire-Train-Deploy. As work is reimagined and new work appears, the shelf life for skills is declining. McKinsey forecasts that by 2030, 375 million workers worldwide could need to change jobs or learn new skills in order to remain useful. Conventional L&D systems, too often inflexible and sluggish, find it difficult to cope with this magnitude of change.
With this adaptive and modular character, it fits more effectively into this reality. The workers can be given a rapid education in skills of the future, like analytics on data, AI-supported workflows, or industry-specific digital platforms. Rather than general theoretical education, HTD facilitates just-in-time learning that is immediately relevant to changing job functions.
AI itself is also revolutionizing the way such programs are presented. Adaptive learning platforms can digest the performance of an individual learner, detect knowledge lacunae, and provide targeted micro-learning interventions. For example, a data analyst training program employee who is having a problem with SQL queries can receive additional practice modules automatically aimed at his/her weak areas. Such a combination of AI-based personalization with the HTD model builds a living, dynamic learning environment where training is not static but constantly adaptive.
Challenges in Scale and Motivation
Though it has many benefits, the HTD model also has its own challenges. Scaling this by geography entails strong infrastructure, uniform curriculum standards, and quality delivery methods of training. Without these, there will be a possibility of inconsistency in learning results.
Learner motivation and engagement are equally important. Hire-Train-Deploy programs are short and intense, requiring high levels of commitment from attendees. The haste to acquire new skills while setting up for imminent deployment is overwhelming. In contrast to the conventional academic process, which takes years, HTD condenses the process to weeks or months, necessitating discipline and resilience.
Organizations that are able to overcome such challenges are the ones that integrate support systems within the training experience. Mentorship schemes, peer-learning circles, gameified content, and handholding post-deployment proved to be instrumental in keeping the motivation sustained. Ongoing feedback loops also keep learner feeling supported and appreciated, lowering dropout rates and boosting confidence.
Redefining the Future of Corporate Training
The Hire-Train Deploy Model
The HTD model is not merely a strategic reaction to talent deficits, since it heralds a shift in paradigm for workforce development. It marries the needs of responsiveness that businesses need with the aspirations of a new generation of professionals demanding instant learning, experiential exposure, and verifiable career growth.
For businesses, HTD ensures that investments in training are being returned as business outcomes in the form of faster onboarding, improved productivity, and reduced attrition. For employees, it delivers career-upgradeable competencies, meaningful work, and longer-term employability in the era of persistent change.
As companies continue to evolve in the twin shadows of AI and automation, short-term mission-based models of learning like Hire-Train-Deploy will more and more define the future of work. For India, home to a huge reservoir of youth talent, this model is not merely a business strategy but an economic and social empowerment. Unleashing opportunities in low-penetrated areas, driving inclusion, and enabling millions of people for employment of the future, HTD has the capability to drive businesses as well as communities.
Imagine Marketing Limited (IML) brand owner of the mark “boAt”, India’s leading audio & wearables brand, co-founded by Aman Gupta & Sameer Mehta, today announced that the Board of Directors has approved the elevation of Gaurav Nayyar to the position of Chief Executive Officer. This leadership transition marks a significant step in strengthening the Company’s management for its next phase of growth, while ensuring the founding team continues to play a guiding role in shaping the future.
Nayyar has served as boAt’s Chief Operating Officer for the past three years and brings more than two decades of strategic and operational experience, including eight years at Bain & Company where he was a Partner, prior to joining boAt. As part of the transition, Co-Founder Sameer Mehta will assume the role of Executive Director, focused on driving long-term strategy while supporting Nayyar’s leadership as he takes on his new responsibilities, and Co-Founder Aman Gupta will continue his close association and contributions with boAt as a Non-Executive Director on the Board, ensuring continuity of brand vision and strategy.
This announcement reflects another proactive step by boAt in its journey of professionalization and underscores the founders’ commitment to leadership continuity and best-in-class governance, while laying the foundation for boAt to capitalize on the multi-decadal opportunity ahead in India’s consumer technology market.
Gaurav Nayyar: “I am honored to be entrusted with the responsibility of leading boAt into its next chapter. Having worked closely with Sameer and Aman over the years, I know first-hand the extraordinary foundation they have built. Sameer has done an exceptional job over the past few years as CEO strengthening our core, building product adjacencies and setting up our India manufacturing footprint, and Aman has been instrumental in his role as CMO in shaping our marketing prowess and brand positioning and ethos from the outset. I look forward to driving boAt’s next chapter with their support, as we further build on our various growth vectors and deliver enduring value for our customers, partners, and shareholders.”
Co-Founder, Sameer Mehta: “This transition reflects the natural evolution of boAt as we further professionalize and position ourselves for the opportunities ahead. It has been a privilege to build this company alongside Aman, whose vision and creativity has helped establish the brand and culture that define us today. Together, we are immensely proud of what has been created. Gaurav has shown exceptional leadership and execution, making him the right person for the CEO role going forward. I look forward to supporting him strategically in his new role, in my capacity as Executive Director, while continuing to drive the strategic vision that can push the boundaries of what an Indian consumer tech brand can achieve.”
Co-Founder, Aman Gupta: “When Sameer and I started boAt, our ambition was to build something bold, enduring and impactful and the journey so far has exceeded my expectations. Over the past several years, Sameer has done an outstanding job as CEO leading the company and preparing it for this next stage in its evolution. I’m proud of what we have accomplished together and equally excited to see Gaurav take the helm. With my continued guidance and support as a Co-Founder and Director on the Board, I’m confident the company will stay true to its founding spirit while scaling new milestones in the years ahead.”
Hiranandani Financial Services (HFS), a Non‑Banking Financial Company (NBFC) focused on empowering micro and small‑business entrepreneurs, today announced its maiden external equity fundraise of ₹800 crore (approximately US$91.5 million). As part of the transaction, funds managed by Vitruvian Partners, a global investment firm that backs high-growth companies, invested through Vitruvian’s Singapore platform and acquired a minority stake in HFS. The capital will strengthen HFS’s presence in India’s MSME financing sector, expand its footprint across underserved Tier III and Tier IV markets, deepen secured lending, and fund continued investments in technology and talent.
HFS, backed by House of Hiranandani, will expand its footprint across India’s underserved Tier III and Tier IV markets and deepen its secured lending capabilities. This fresh infusion of capital will accelerate the company’s loan disbursements, drive technology investments, and scale its presence in high‑potential MSME clusters.
Commenting on the fundraise, Mr. Harsh Hiranandani, Founder of Hiranandani Financial Services said, “This investment is a strong validation of our mission to empower India’s small entrepreneurs with quick, reliable and tech-driven credit access. It advances our journey to build one of India’s most trusted NBFC platforms for MSMEs.”
Vitruvian Partners has a strong track record of investing in fast-growing financial services platforms worldwide. Its investment in HFS reflects both confidence in India’s MSME ecosystem and trust in HFS’s ability to build out a pan-India lending franchise.
Kartikeya Kaji, who leads Vitruvian’s India investing team, said, “Hiranandani Financial Services has built an impressive foundation with a deep understanding of India’s fast-growing MSME segment. The company’s hybrid model, combining an on-the-ground presence with a strong digital technology stack, has proven both scalable and resilient. We believe HFS is well-positioned to bridge the financing gap for small entrepreneurs, and we are excited to partner with them on this transformative growth journey.”
“We already have a strong promoter in House of Hiranandani and are excited to now have a global investment firm like Vitruvian Partners backing us. The credit gap in micro and small enterprises is large, and this fundraise will help us accelerate our journey and expand our reach to support more small businesses in their growth,” said Uday Suvarna, Chief Executive Officer, Hiranandani Financial Services.
Alongside a direct-to-customer model, Hiranandani Financial Services leverages data from multiple sources, automated credit rule engines, mobile-first assisted onboarding, and real-time KYC to underwrite borrowers quickly and efficiently. Its hybrid credit assessment model blends cutting-edge technology with traditional field-level risk checks, enabling a faster turnaround while retaining a strong focus on asset quality.
Capillary Technologies, a Bengaluru-based SaaS company known for its AI-driven customer loyalty and engagement solutions, has received approval from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to launch its Initial Public Offering (IPO). This move allows the company to issue fresh equity and enable existing investors to partially exit via an Offer for Sale (OFS).
IPO Details and Fund Utilisation
According to the Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) filed in June 2025, Capillary Technologies plans to raise INR 430 crore through a fresh issue and conduct an Offer for Sale (OFS) of up to 1.83 crore shares by existing shareholders. The OFS will see investors such as Ronal Holdings, Trudly Holdings, Filter Capital India, and Avataar Ventures partially offload their stakes.
The funds from the public issue will be used for:
Expanding cloud infrastructure and IT systems
Investing in research and development
Supporting potential acquisitions
Meeting general corporate needs
JM Financial, IIFL Capital, and Nomura Financial Advisory are the book-running lead managers for the IPO. The company’s shares are expected to be listed on both the BSE and NSE.
Company Overview and Growth
Founded in 2008 by Aneesh Reddy, Krishna Mehra, and Ajay Modani, Capillary Technologies provides cloud-native loyalty management and customer engagement solutions to enterprises. Over the years, the company has grown into a leading SaaS provider, catering to more than 390 brands across 46 countries, including Tata Digital, Domino’s, Aditya Birla Fashion, Arvind Fashion, and Abbott Labs.
The company’s major shareholder is Capillary Technologies International Pte Ltd, which holds about 65.47%, while other investors include Ronal Holdings (7.53%), Avataar Ventures (5.51%), Trudly Holdings (4.49%), and Filter Capital India (3.66%).
Financial Performance and Market Context
As per its financial statements and DRHP, Capillary recorded a revenue of around INR 598 crore in FY25, a growth of approximately 14% year-on-year. The company also returned to profitability, posting a net profit of about INR 14.1 crore, compared to a loss in FY24.
The positive turnaround follows Capillary’s renewed focus on international markets and enterprise clients. Industry analysts view this as a key moment for India’s SaaS ecosystem, as few SaaS companies have successfully gone public domestically.
Capillary had earlier planned an IPO in 2021 but deferred it due to volatile market conditions. Its renewed attempt aligns with improving investor appetite for tech-driven enterprise firms.
Why This IPO Matters
Capillary’s IPO could mark a significant step for India’s enterprise software sector. It not only offers a liquidity event for early investors but also signals growing investor confidence in SaaS-based business models.
If the listing performs well, Capillary Technologies could pave the way for more Indian SaaS companies to explore public markets, a space still dominated by traditional sectors like banking, manufacturing, and consumer goods.
With SEBI’s approval now in hand, the company will move towards setting its IPO price band, opening and closing dates, and finalising its roadshow plans
VerSe Innovation, the parent company of unicorn startup Dailyhunt and Josh, ended FY25 on a strong note with sharp revenue growth and lower losses. The company, backed by global investors like CPP Investments, Carlyle, QIA, Google, and Microsoft, said it is on track to achieve EBITDA break-even and group-level profitability in the second half of FY26.
In FY25, VerSe’s operating revenue jumped 88% to INR 1,930 crore, up from INR 1,029 crore in FY24. Total revenue, including other income, rose 64% to INR 2,071 crore. Even without acquisitions, core operating revenue grew 33% to INR 1,373 crore, showing strong demand for its core products.
At the same time, the company reduced its losses. EBITDA burn dropped 20% to INR 738 crore, compared to INR 920 crore a year earlier. The EBITDA margin improved from -89% in FY24 to -38% in FY25, showing progress toward sustainability.
The overall costs also came down. The cost of services fell to 77% of revenue from 112% last year. Other operating expenses dropped to 61% from 77%. These improvements reflect stronger efficiency and tighter cost discipline.
Metric
FY24 (INR Cr)
FY25 (INR Cr)
Change/Improvement
Operating Revenue
1,029
1,930
+88%
Total Revenue (incl. other income)
1,266*
2,071
+64%
Core Operating Revenue (excl. acquisitions)
1,029
1,373
+33%
EBITDA Burn
920
738
-20%
EBITDA Margin
-89%
-38%
Improved
Cost of Services (% of revenue)
112%
77%
Better efficiency
Other Operating Expenses (% of revenue)
77%
61%
Reduced
*FY24 total revenue estimated as operating revenue + other income (~INR 237 crore).
AI and Product Innovation as Growth Drivers
VerSe said its journey to profitability will be powered by AI-driven monetisation, product innovation, and fiscal prudence. A key part of this plan is NexVerse.ai, its programmatic advertising engine that uses AI to deliver better ad results and deeper insights for brands.
The company is also pushing subscriptions. Through Dailyhunt Premium, in partnership with Magzter, it is offering premium content to paying users. This adds another revenue stream beyond advertising.
On the community side, VerSe launched Josh Audio Calling, letting fans interact directly with creators, and VerSe Collab, a marketplace for influencer campaigns. These products are designed to deepen user engagement and help brands connect with India’s massive creator community.
Strategic acquisitions are another part of VerSe’s growth story. The company acquired Magzter, a global digital magazine platform, and ValueLeaf, a B2B engagement company. These are being integrated to expand its premium content and enterprise solutions.
With these moves, VerSe aims to strengthen both consumer and business ecosystems. The firm now serves over 350 million users across its platforms, making it one of India’s largest digital media players.
Outlook for FY26
VerSe expects to turn profitable in the second half of FY26, supported by AI-powered automation, subscriptions, community products, and efficiency gains. The company said its strong capital position, proven scale, and focus on innovation position it to lead India’s next digital growth wave.
Despite past controversies, including allegations of round-tripping with Builder.ai, which the company strongly denied, VerSe continues to attract investor support and push toward sustainable growth. With improved unit economics and a clear roadmap, industry watchers are now eyeing VerSe’s progress toward a possible IPO in the coming years.
In this exclusive virtual conversation with StartupTalky, Samira Gupta, Executive Presence, Leadership Communication & Life Coach, shares her personal and professional journey. She discusses the life lessons that enabled her career pivots, the essentials of executive presence, transformative practical strategies, and why leadership goes beyond titles. Gupta also elaborates on actionable advice for women and men, the realities of boardroom dynamics, and her approach to developing inner confidence and clarity.
From Zoology to Leadership Coaching
Samira Gupta’s career began with a science degree in zoology, but soon evolved. Her journey spanned several industries, including apparel, hospitality, insurance, and real estate, showing early on her entrepreneurial mindset and resilience. The turning point came after 24 years in corporate roles when she shifted towards helping others discover purpose and self-mastery, blending image consulting, NLP, and executive coaching.
Executive Presence: More Than Appearances
According to Gupta, executive presence is about how leaders make others feel. “Executive presence is equal to clarity, credibility, trust, calmness, maturity,” Gupta explained. She shared, “Are you conscious and careful of how you show up, your demeanour, dressing, grooming, manners, and empathy?” Effectiveness comes through intentionality and care, creating a sense of safety, being heard, and feeling valued in every interaction.
Samira Gupta, Executive Presence, Leadership Communication & Life Coach in Conversation with StartupTalky
The Key Pillars: Clarity, Empathy, and Communication
Gupta emphasised that executive presence is not about being the loudest in the room or holding a title. “The loudest people in the room are not strong on executive presence,” she stated. The real leaders, including introverts, command respect through gravitas—a blend of knowledge, authenticity, and stillness. “It is the ‘how’ of everything that you do. The magic is in the how.”
Emotional intelligence and curiosity, rather than mere empathy, are highlighted as critical. “If I say I have a high EP or an elevated EP, that means I have to make you feel heard, safe, understood,” she remarked.
Groundwork: Self-Reflection and Inner Clarity
Gupta advocates regular self-reflection and values work to avoid internal conflict and external stress. She cited the importance of knowing one’s core values: “Unless we know what our core values are, we will always operate in conflict with ourselves or with others.” Responsible self-work, she believes, leads to harmonious professional and personal relationships.
Practical Strategies: Boardrooms, Balance, and Appearance
On making an impact in boardrooms, she stressed preparation, punctuality, and attentive conduct over showy behaviour: “Come on time, greet everyone nicely, sit straight, and be prepared.”
She addresses the challenges women face in voicing opinions and the pressures on men to appear confident, both caused by ingrained beliefs that can be unlearned or let go.
In terms of personal appearance, Gupta addresses the misconception that dressing professionally is superficial: “Intelligent people also need to set an example. Others observe how we present ourselves.”
She advises balanced, conservative dressing that aligns with the organisational environment, stating that appearances are part of communicating respect and professionalism.
Tools for Growth: Book and Professional Development
Gupta’s book, Elevate Executive Presence, focuses on enhancing executive presence through poise, power, and performance.
“Poise is about calmness, emotional maturity, power spans physical to emotional influences, and performance is about how you do things,” she described. The book includes practical exercises, case studies, and reflection tools that readers can apply to their professional and personal growth.
Leadership programs include activities such as grounding meditation, breathwork, and skills workshops to help participants rejuvenate, re-centre, and strengthen their professional presence, providing actionable techniques to enhance confidence, communication, and influence in the workplace.
Advice to Entrepreneurs and Leaders
Gupta’s advice is straightforward: “Stop and smell the roses. Don’t keep running. Slow down, pause, reflect.” She stresses the importance of meaningful self-development, urging leaders to invest in health, skills, and self-awareness alongside material pursuits. “Work on self-belief and confidence, because that allows you to navigate challenges with ease,” she concluded.
Diwali, the festival of lights, is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. Traditionally, it is a time when families and friends come together to celebrate the victory of light over darkness. However, in the current times, we are faced with the challenge of celebrating Diwali while ensuring the safety and well-being of our colleagues.
But fear not! Virtual Diwali celebrations are here to save the day. With the advent of technology and the rise of virtual platforms, it is now possible to celebrate Diwali with your office team, even if you are physically apart. In this article, we will be looking at some exciting and innovative ideas for hosting a memorable virtual Diwali party for your colleagues.
One of the key elements of any celebration is the opportunity to engage in fun and entertaining activities. Even in a virtual setting, you can create a festive atmosphere by organizing Diwali-themed games and activities. Here are a few Diwali virtual celebration ideas for employees :
Racing to Lanka
Add a competitive element to your virtual Diwali party with a game inspired by the mythological tale of Lord Rama and his journey to rescue Sita from the demon king Ravana. Participants can engage in festive runs, perform Diwali mythological poses, and complete tasks to “reach Lanka.” This game will not only create a sense of excitement but also allow team members to showcase their creativity and enthusiasm.
Who’s your Diya?!
Take a moment to express gratitude and appreciation for your colleagues with a gratitude-building activity. Ask team members to give special shoutouts to their colleagues whom they are grateful for. This simple exercise can go a long way in fostering a positive and supportive work environment.
Online Diwali Decoration Contest
Spark creativity by hosting an online Diwali decoration contest! Employees can decorate their homes or workspaces with a Diwali theme and share pictures or videos of their creations. Celebrate and reward the most imaginative decorations. This fun activity encourages everyone to embrace the festive spirit while fostering a positive and vibrant workplace culture. These can be one of the most fun Diwali virtual games for office.
No Diwali celebration is complete without some entertainment. In a virtual setting, you can still create a festive ambiance by enabling virtual performances. Here are a few ideas:
LED Poi Light Performance
While you may miss the tradition of decorating your office space with bright Diyas and lamps, you can still experience the magic of lights through a performance by a professional LED Poi artist. Poi is a dance form that uses LED lights to create mesmerizing patterns. Watching these bright and colorful lights swing in rhythmic patterns on your screens will be the virtual equivalent of Diya lighting and fireworks.
Folk Dance Performance
Celebrate the rich cultural diversity of India by organizing a folk dance performance. You can either hire a professional artist or have your team members prepare an art performance based on the regional culture they belong to. This cultural exchange will not only showcase the talents of your team members but also create a sense of camaraderie and appreciation for different traditions. It can be one of the best ways for virtual Diwali celebration.
Zoom Musical Concert
Immerse yourself in the melodious ambiance of Diwali with a virtual musical concert. Hire a Bollywood or Sufi musician to perform live for your team. Alternatively, you can have talented singers within your organization take the virtual stage. Turn on the flashlights of your phones, groove to the beats, and create a memorable musical experience.
No office party is complete without some dancing. Bring the Bollywood flavor to your virtual Diwali celebration by organizing a Bollyboom Fusion Dance Party. Create a playlist of popular Bollywood beats from the ’80s and ’00s and make team members show off their dance moves from the comfort of their own homes. This energetic and fun-filled activity will surely get everyone in the festive spirit.
X-Factor
To make your virtual Diwali party truly stand out, consider adding these unique elements:
Online Magic Show
Add an element of wonder and amazement to your virtual celebration with a magic show. Hire a trained magician to perform mind-blowing tricks and illusions that will leave your team members in awe. This magical experience will replace traditional fireworks and add a touch of excitement to your virtual Diwali celebration.
Family Day, This Diwali
Invite the family members and partners of your employees to join the virtual celebration. This will not only make the event more inclusive but also create a warm and cherished atmosphere. Encourage team members to introduce their loved ones and share the joy of Diwali with their extended families.
Online Gift Exchange
Online Diwali Celebration Ideas – Online Gift Exchange
Diwali is a time for spreading happiness and exchanging gifts. Organize an online gift exchange by giving away online shopping coupons or creating a “Secret Santa” equivalent for Diwali. This will allow team members to surprise and delight each other with thoughtful gifts, even in a virtual setting.
Take this opportunity to recognize and appreciate the outstanding contributions of your team members. Organize a Patakha Awards Night where you can present awards to the most vibrant and enterprising individuals in your organization. Categories can include “Phuljhadis” for vibrant and energetic team members, “Rockets” for resourceful and innovative individuals, “Chakris” for cool and calm team members, and “Bombs” for hardworking and dedicated employees. This virtual Diwali celebration will not only honor their efforts but also bring a sense of pride and motivation to the entire team.
Diwali is a festival of giving and sharing. Encourage employees to support charitable causes or join social initiatives during this Virtual Diwali Celebration. They can organize online fundraisers, donate to local charities, or volunteer for community service. These activities capture the spirit of Diwali and help build a sense of social responsibility among everyone.
Bonus Idea: Online Ethnic Fashion Show
Make Diwali turn into a fun fashion statement. Encourage team members to dress up in their traditional ethnic attire for the virtual Diwali party. Set and follow an ethnic dress code to recreate the festive atmosphere of an office workspace. To make the fashion show more engaging, create a festive playlist to be played when the employees are walking the virtual ramp. As the spotlight shines on each participant, encourage them to showcase their creativity by striking a super funny face or action. This interactive element will add a touch of fun and excitement to the much coveted ‘Diwali’s Office Get Together‘.
Add a Diwali-themed AR Based Photo Booth
Your online Diwali party will not be complete without fun selfies and photos. You can click many pictures using different Diwali-themed backgrounds. The AR photo booth from the best virtual event platform makes it even more fun. Employees can try out creative poses, share their pictures, and feel like they are part of a real celebration. It’s a great way to bring everyone together and capture happy memories.
End Note
The festival of lights holds a lot of historic and cultural significance for all of us in India. As Indians, we understand the magnitude of this festival and how it brings all of us closer. After all, it marks the homecoming of Lord Rama and how good wins over evil, every time. As business owners, founders, and entrepreneurs – we can inculcate these values and make our offices feel like home for every team member who’s away from his/her family. When we make the activities fun and cultural – it showcases our values, and that too, on a grand scale. This Diwali, let’s be the good that our team members and our peers look for.
FAQs
What are virtual Diwali celebration ideas for employees?
Some of the virtual Diwali celebration ideas for employees include online magic shows, online fashion shows, awards nights, online gift exchanges, and many more.
What is the best app for a virtual Diwali party?
Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet are some of the platforms for having a virtual Diwali party.
What can be ideas for performances in a virtual Diwali celebration?
Virtual Diwali celebrations can have performances like magic shows, folk dance, and LED Poi light performances.
What are activities for Diwali in office?
For Diwali in the office, you can organize fun activities like diya painting and a rangoli contest, where employees can show their creativity. Everyone can join in an ethnic dress day, sharing sweets, and participating in a gift exchange. Teams can decorate the office and play games like Tambola.
WhatsApp has announced a fresh batch of updates for iOS and Android users. The new features bring more personalisation, creativity, and easier ways to share content. From Live Photos to AI-powered chat themes, the messaging app is becoming more versatile.
Live and Motion Photos
One of the most exciting additions is support for Live Photos on iOS and Motion Photos on Android. These short clips come with sound and movement, making them feel more real than a simple picture. Users can now share these moments directly in WhatsApp without relying on other apps. The clips can also be shared as videos on social media, giving people more ways to relive their memories.
WhatsApp is adding more AI tools through Meta. Chat themes, first introduced earlier this year, now allow custom designs with Meta AI. Users can create backgrounds that match their style and mood.
AI-generated video call backdrops are also coming to the app. Whether you want to appear at a beach, in space, or in a creative AI-made setting, the feature brings fun to calls and chats. These AI options are still rolling out, so not every user will see them right away.
New Sticker Packs and Easier Group Search
To make conversations more expressive, WhatsApp has added fresh sticker packs called Fearless Bird, School Days, and Vacation. These packs offer playful designs that let users show emotions without typing a single word.
Group search is also getting better. Instead of scrolling through long chat lists, users can now type the name of a friend in the search bar. WhatsApp will then show all the groups that both people are part of, saving time and effort.
In-App Document Scanner for Android
Android users now get a long-awaited feature of document scanning inside WhatsApp. The built-in scanner lets people scan, crop, save, and send documents directly in the app. iPhone users already had access to this feature, and now Android users can enjoy the same convenience without third-party apps.
A Broader Update Focused on Usability
Together, these updates highlight WhatsApp’s focus on personalisation and convenience. Live Photos and Motion Photos add depth to sharing. AI-powered themes and backdrops bring creativity to everyday chats. New sticker packs and group search make communication simpler and more fun. And the in-app scanner on Android makes work and study tasks easier.
Most of the features are already rolling out, though some AI-powered options may take more time to reach all users. To try the latest updates, users should download the newest version of WhatsApp from the App Store or Google Play Store.
Sarika Anand
