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Prasad V. Potluri’s Midas Touch

The hot and humid summer afternoon in Kochi transformed into an animated conversation about entrepreneurship.

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The hot and humid summer afternoon in Kochi transformed into an animated conversation about entrepreneurship, business opportunities and of course football when FWD Life met Prasad V. Potluri, the master brain behind PVP Ventures.

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Photos: Reji Baskar

In the classy ambience of the coffee lounge at Crowne Plaza, Kochi, a smartly dressed man in blazers and brogues greeted us with a heart-warming smile. “PVP “the name by which Mr.Potluri is known among his friends and associates, was ready for us a full quarter of an hour before the time scheduled for us. The pace at which he
gets things moving is evident from his track record, he built three companies around the world and sold them for a nest egg by the time he was 35. PVP
returned to India and started Realty, Infrastructure, Financial services, Media and Entertainment divisions.

Extremely candid about his experiences, Mr.Potluri talked about how his first job was at three in the morning, as a janitor. ‘All roads lead to Rome and those days it was the United States of America; that was the dreamland’, confesses PVP. After completing his bachelor’s education, PVP wanted to pursue a graduate program in the US, but his visa application got rejected thrice.
So he went ‘down under’ to Australia to do his masters. From Australia, he got a single entry visa (90 days) to USA, on his seventh attempt. “I landed in the USA on 1st August 1995 with
160 USD in my pocket. I bought into the American dream and in June ’96, with a single desk and chair on lease, I started my fist company called Procon Inc.” In 27 months, Procon Inc had 250 employees. The company was acquired for 32 million dollars in November 1998. PVP was 27 years old then. His second endeavour in the US, was building an e-business solutions fim inorganically and acquired two firms in the US and formed Albion Orion LLC. PVP was one of the fist Indians in the US that pursued M&A in North America and successfully sold that company for 63.65 million dollars in September 2000 to SSI Ltd.

He then set his sights across the Atlantic and moved to London, UK and started a new company called Irevna that pioneered and spawned the KPO space. He began the company in August 2001 and withered the 9/11 crisis and successfully grew to a team of 500 MBA’s, serving the needs of fortune 1000 corporations. In 2005, Prasad sold Irevna to Crisil India, which during
the course of the acquisition became Standard & Poor India. During that time, he had the opportunity to witness the growth potential and the India story exploding into the global arena.

Your early experience…

I would have been in the comfort zone of the many folks from our part of the world. I had a great opportunity to be the early movers in Australia, to understand the Western environment. I also got to understand what a graduate goes through. I went through every blue collar job under the sun. From janitorial duties at three in the morning to pumping gas at the Shell station, it was a great learning experience. It helped me develop a new sense of work ethics and discipline. Guess it’s one of the reasons why I always fil my fuel at Shell, anywhere in the world.

Evolution as an entrepreneur

I always had the inhibition that my educational credentials were not up to the mark. A friend of mine was working for Mackensy at that time and they had set up a knowledge centre in London. I knew the U.S like the back of my hand and I decided to set up our next venture in the U.K. We decided to create a similar offering to investment banks. We put together a team and slowly we developed a team of 500 MBA’s serving the needs of fortune 1000 corporations. We had to overcome the hurdles of 9/11 attacks before revenue stared coming in. That was a great humbling experience; the last decade of my career involved a lot of learning and unlearning. I have stepped on a few landmine, but that’s the evolution that every entrepreneur has to go through.

Coming back to India

As an entrepreneur, you always gravitate towards opportunity, and the writing was on the wall, as far as India was concerned. It was the place to be. I was introduced to an investment opportunity and saw an exciting platform in Karvy Group (Hyderabad) and bought a large stake in it. It was my best investment decision till date which also supported my growth plans in India. The forecasting was bang on spot, but looking back where I underestimated the challenges was the way in which business was done in India. I had never gone to any US government office for any major business need. It was quite a complicated environment to navigate in India, and it took me few months’ years to understand what kind of a juvenile business man I was before India. I have no hesitation saying this out loud, but having said that let me add that we have totally cracked it now and we are managing various kind of business in India. Financial services, real estate, media, entertainment and sports are the areas we are currently focusing on. I am going back to drawing board to start working with startups. Especially, on retail consumption services

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Indian Super League

From the U.S, I understood sports as part of entertainment and a part of consumption. Because of India’s demographic dividend, 10 years from now sports will be a contributor to the economy. When I came back IPL (Indian Premier League) had already started, and I had made a bid for Deccan Chargers. When the Indian Badminton League started, bought the Hyderabad Hot Shots and won the inaugural edition. The tennis league was evolving and at that time we spoke to Sachin discussed with him the possibility of developing an organization. Sachin’s heart was into all sports not just cricket and how we are developing football is from the grass root level.

Philanthropy

We have been taking care of quite a few people in badminton, chess…. This is something I learned from America, that one has to give back to the society. God has been so kind to me, He has given me more than what I deserve and there are so many who are not so fortunate. In a small way we have built an undergraduate college in my home town.

Managing Your Team

There are no short cuts, you have to lead by example, be consistent, it’s about your credibility, and you live and die by your word. That’s the only principle I live by and I will continue to do so. That’s how you inspire your colleagues, fist is your integrity, second your work ethics, and three your consistency in terms of your conduct, relationship.

Quickies

Favorite Locations

Saint-Tropez on the French Rivera

Favorite food

Pasta

Personal quirks

I need my blazer even in the middle of the Indian summer

Advice for Future entrepreneurs

One should have tremendous equanimity handling success and failure. Handling and acknowledging failure is another very important thing.

If not an serial entrepreneurs 

I would have been a socialist/activist enjoying giving my time to the society.

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Starlit Wedding – Diya Krishna

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Actor Krishna Kumar’s daughter, Diya Krishna, a popular social media influencer, recently married Ashwin Ganesan, a software engineer, after a long-term relationship. The couple celebrated their special day with a beautiful ceremony at a luxurious hotel in Thiruvananthapuram. Diya’s family, including her siblings Ahaana, Ishani, and Hansika, along with her parents Sindhu Krishna and Krishna Kumar, looked radiant in coordinated light pink ensembles. The wedding was an intimate gathering, attended by close family and friends. Here are all the details of their magical day.

Haldi

For the Haldi ceremony, Diya and Ashwin were spotted in coordinated white outfits by Santini. The look was beautifully elevated with a pop of color from Diya’s pink dupatta and stunning floral jewellery by Florita Florals, adding a fresh, vibrant touch to the celebration.

Diya’s Outfit : Santinni

Aswin’s Outfit : Santinni

MakeUp : Amala Brahmanandan

Jewellery : Florita Floral 

Event Planner : Grand Oyster

Photography : Abhijith SK

Location : Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa

Mehendi

Diya looked effortlessly chic in a vibrant multi-colored skirt set by Mahek Designs for the Mehendi celebration. Ashwin complemented her perfectly with a multi-hued jacket by Santini, completing their joyful and lively Mehendi look.

Diya’s Outfit : MAHEK DESIGNS

Aswin’s Outfit : Santinni

Mehandi : MISHMA KAMAL 

Event Planner : Grand Oyster

Photography : Abhijith SK

Sangeeth 

Diya and Ashwin absolutely rocked their Sangeet in stunning black outfits by Santini, exuding elegance and style as they celebrated the night in perfect sync!

Diya’s Outfit : Santinni

Aswin’s Outfit : Santinni

Jewellery : Atelier by Regal Jewellers

MakeUp : Laxmi Venugopal

Event Planner : Grand Oyster, Decor Lab Events

DJ : TONIQ SQUAD

Photography : Abhijith SK

Wedding 

For the wedding, Diya truly dazzled in a polished pastel-themed saree designed by the talented M Loft by Joel. Styled in a manner reminiscent of Bollywood star Alia Bhatt’s iconic fashion sense, the saree was a vision of beauty, adorned with elegant detailing, intricate embroidery, and flowing glamour, imparting a regal charm to her bridal look.

Diya’s Outfit : M LOFT

Aswin’s Outfit : M LOFT

Jewellery : Atelier by Regal Jewellers, Regal Jewellers

MakeUp : Laxmi Venugopal

Draping : Aamee Hafsa Nazar

Event Planner : Grand Oyster, Decor Lab Events

Garlands : Black Gold Flowers

Photography : Abhijith SK

Wedding Second Look

For her second wedding look, Diya embraced a simple yet elegant white Kerala traditional set mundu, perfectly complemented by traditional jewelry from Bhima. Ashwin matched the aesthetic, dressed in a silk shirt and mundu by M Loft, creating a timeless and graceful duo.

Aswin’s Outfit : M LOFT

Jewellery : Bhima

MakeUp : Laxmi Venugopal

Draping : Aamee Hafsa Nazar

Event Planner : Grand Oyster, Decor Lab Events

Photography : Abhijith SK

Reception

At the Delhi reception, Diya stunned in a maroon saree, perfectly capturing the elegance of a newlywed. The North Indian-style chooda added a beautiful touch to her look. Ashwin complemented her effortlessly, looking sharp in a sleek black suit by Santinni.

Diya’s Outfit : Shazara Design Studio

Aswin’s Outfit : Santinni

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Onam Elegance: Decoding the Traditional and Modern Looks of M-Town Celebs

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Onam, the grand harvest festival of Kerala, is a celebration of tradition, culture, and elegance. Each year, Malayalam movie celebrities embrace the essence of the festival by donning a mix of timeless traditional outfits and contemporary styles that reflect their unique flair. From graceful sarees to classic set mundus, the stars bring out the best of Kerala’s sartorial heritage. In this lookbook, we decode the standout fashion moments from your favorite M-Town celebs, showcasing how they beautifully combine tradition with modern elegance to make a statement this Onam season.

Anushree

Anushree looked stunning in a double-colored set mundu from Naithu by Sruthi Prasanth, beautifully accessorized with exquisite jewels from Malabar Gold and Diamonds. Her look was perfectly complemented by flawless makeup by Sajith & Sujith.

Mahima Nambiar

Mahima Nambiar looks stunning in T & M Signature’s Onam collection, “Thumbayum Thulasiyum.” Her festive look is perfectly complemented by exquisite jewelry from MOD Signature. Styled by Jobina Vincent, the ensemble is further enhanced with flawless makeup and hair by Pinky Visal, creating a captivating Onam look.

Ahaana Krishna

Ahaana Krishna exudes her signature charm with a simple yet effortlessly stylish look for this Onam in Black Set Mundu. Staying true to her unique “Ahaana style,” her minimalistic makeup and elegant hair were beautifully crafted by Amala Brahmanandan, perfectly complementing her festive vibe.

The Sukumaran Family

The Sukumaran family radiates elegance in their traditional Onam attire. Indrajith and Prithviraj opted for timeless simplicity, donning classic white shirts paired with mundus, while Mallika Sukumaran exudes a proud motherly grace in a beautiful, classic Kerala saree, perfectly capturing the spirit of the festival.

Shilpa Bala

Shilpa Bala looks stunning and stylish in a white and orange traditional salwar by Kalaakari, exuding festive charm. The look, styled by Rashmi Muraleedharan, is perfectly complemented by elegant jewelry from Pure Allure. Her radiant makeup and hair, done by Sanaah, complete this beautiful Onam ensemble.

Anikha Surenderan

Draped in the stunning ‘Nila’ saree by Anusha Reji, Anikha Surendran mesmerizes with her grace and style. Styled to perfection by Mehaka Kalarikkal, her look is elevated by exquisite jewelry from Goldencup Bridal Rental Jewellery. With flawless makeup and hair by Ashif Marakkar. Anikha’s Onam look is truly captivating.

Nikhila Vimal

Like a muse straight from Raja Ravi Varma’s timeless canvas, Nikhila Vimal exudes ethereal charm in a stunning Pen Kalamkari Kanchipuram saree by The Saffron House. Styled by Smiji, her look is further elevated by flawless makeup and hair by Femy Antony

Dulquer Salman

Dulquer Salmaan looks ravishing in a classic white kurta set, effortlessly blending tradition with chic style. His Onam look radiates simplicity and elegance, making a timeless fashion statement for the festive season.

Pearly Maany

Pearly Maany looks stunning in a saree from T & M Signature’s Onam collection, “Thumbayum Thulasiyum.” Her elegant look is perfectly complemented by exquisite jewelry from MOD Signature Jewellery, with flawless makeup and hair by Touch by SiRe. The saree draping, beautifully done by Krishnapriya P V, completes Pearly’s enchanting festive ensemble. 

Arya Babu

Arya graces this Onam in a pure Kerala handloom set saree by Kanchivaram.in, embodying the true essence of tradition and festivity. Styled by Sabari Nath, her look is beautifully complemented by elegant jewelry from Gemforher, with flawless makeup and hair crafted by Manju Michael’s Salon. Arya’s ensemble is a perfect reflection of timeless Onam elegance.

Navya Nair

Navya stuns in her Onam look, wearing a beautiful outfit by Jugalbandhi. Her flawless makeup and hair, crafted by Sijan Joseph, enhance the festive charm. Adorned with exquisite jewelry from R. Giri Pai Jewellery, the look is captured to perfection by Black Lenzio, making Navya a vision of elegance this Onam.

Priya Prakash Varrier

Priya Prakash Varrier looks gorgeous and modern in a stunning saree by Mloft. Styled by Asaniya Nazrin, her look is flawlessly complemented by makeup and hair crafted by Unni, making her stand out with a perfect blend of traditional elegance and contemporary chic.

Aparna Balamurali 

Aparna Balamurali looks traditionally beautiful in a Kerala saree by R O U K A by Sreejith Jeevan. Styled by Rashmi Muraleedharan, her look is complemented with flawless makeup and hair by Sruthi Sai. The ensemble is completed with exquisite jewelry from Nakshathra Gold and Diamonds, making Aparna’s Onam look timeless and elegant.

Amala Paul & Family

Amala Paul’s family Onam picture is an absolute dream, with the family dressed in stunning red and white outfits. Amala shines in an elegant ensemble by Made by Milan, while Jagat looks dapper in his outfit from House of Messcal. Styled by Sapna Fathima Kajha, the look is further enhanced by flawless makeup and hair by Sajith & Sujith, and exquisite jewelry from Cressida Signature Jewels. Together, they capture the perfect festive spirit in this beautiful Onam portrait.

Rajisha Vijayan

Rajisha looks stunning in a leaf-printed saree by ALDA Designer, effortlessly blending tradition with a modern twist. Styled by Amritha Lakshmi, her look is perfectly complemented by makeup and hair by Laxmi Venugopal. The ensemble is enhanced with elegant jewelry from TT Devassy Jewellery, and the draping, beautifully done by Exotic Makeover’s Elizabeth Shinitha, completes this mesmerizing Onam look.

Miya

Miya embraces the spirit of Onam in a pure Kerala handloom Kasavu saree by Kanchivaram.in, radiating traditional elegance. Styled by Sabari Nath, her look is beautifully complemented by makeup and hair by Sijan Joseph. The ensemble is further enhanced with exquisite jewelry from Mayoora Jewelry Designs, and the saree draping, skillfully done by Krishnapriya P V, completes this timeless Onam look.

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Sarees of India : Punjab’s Phulkari

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 The traditional Punjabi art form ‘Phulkari,’ derived from the terms ‘phul’ and ‘kari,’ meaning flower and effort, is thought to have begun in Punjab in the 15th century by Punjabi women. Bright and bright textile art uses needlework and the most basic designs to create a fascinating, appealing, and ornamented result. Phulkari work is reported to be mentioned in Heer Ranjha’s Waris Shah love romance. References to this needlework tradition can also be found in the Vedic period. Women’s phulkari chadar, dupattas, sarees and other veil garments were traditionally exchanged as bridal gifts or heirlooms.

The inspiration for the Phulkari motifs would originate from their imaginations based on their surroundings, nature, animals, birds, gardens, or even a mother-daughter conversation. Marigolds, jasmine, peacock, and mustard flowers were frequently used as a means of expressing their feelings, inventiveness, and expressiveness. 

 

Because Phulkari is made out of symmetrical designs, the craftsmen and women must count the amount of stitches on each side before proceeding, making Phulkari a time-consuming method. However, as time passed, people moved on to new techniques, and in addition to coarse khaddar fabrics, silk, georgette, chiffon, and normal cotton began to be used. Darning stitch- the most significant stitch- was used to border the khaddar in the past. Other stitches like herringbone, buttonhole, and running stitch were also utilized. These stitches were employed to make a unique motif or as a border. 

The use of colors is extremely important in Phulkari art. Traditionally, just four hues were utilized, each with its unique meaning. For example, white is appropriate for elderly women and widows, red is appropriate for young girls and brides-to-be, and blue, black, and dark tones are appropriate for everyday use. Red was the most commonly used color to express enthusiasm, followed by orange for vitality and green for fertility. 

In India, there is not just one sort of Phulkari, but numerous. What distinguishes one Phulkari from another is the darn stitching process, which is done on the reverse or wrong side of the fabric, which makes this handcraft unique. Here are some of the most popular Phulkari designs.

Bagh– A design in which horizontal, vertical, or diagonal stitching cover the entire fabric surface. 

Chhamas – Chhamas fabric has mirrors stitched or woven onto it with yellow, grey, or blue threads.

Neelak– Neelak patterns have a black or red backdrop with bright yellow or red embroidery on top. For a distinct shining texture, the design is combined with metal or copper threads.

Chope– Chope is traditionally done in yellow and red threads and involves embroidering on both sides of the fabric. This embroidery is made out of a series of triangles or a step-ladder pattern.

There used to be 52 different types of Phulkaris, but that number has since been reduced to only a few. The states that use the Phulkari traditional art and needlework the most are Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. 

 

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