Mithila Foods and Goldiam Shine Bright: Indian Startups Secure Major Funding for Expansion

Two Indian startups, Mithila Foods and Goldiam International Ltd., are making waves in the FMCG and jewelry sectors, raising significant capital to fuel their ambitious growth plans. These funding rounds highlight the growing investor confidence in India's regional and sustainable consumer brands.

Mithila Foods, a Bihar-based FMCG startup, has secured Rs 1.5 crore in seed funding from AJVC, a venture capital firm led by Aviral Bhatnagar. Launched in January 2025 by founders Shubham Sunderka, Ankit Kumar, and Anshu Kumar, the company celebrates Bihar's culinary heritage with products like sattu, roasted chana, makhana, and katarni chuda. The startup has quickly gained traction, reporting an annualized revenue of Rs 3 crore, over 20 stock-keeping units, and a customer base of 25,000 across 4,000 pin codes in just five months.

The fresh capital will enable Mithila Foods to expand its distribution network, strengthen supply chains, and introduce new product categories inspired by regional flavors. Starting from a warehouse in Dumka, the company has already established a nationwide presence through e-commerce giants like Amazon and Flipkart, alongside offline retail in tier-I and tier-II cities. AJVC's investment, which typically involves Rs 1.5 crore for a 9 percent equity stake, aligns with its mission to back early-stage startups in underrepresented regions like Jharkhand and Assam.

In a parallel development, Goldiam International Ltd., a diamond jewelry exporter and emerging player in lab-grown diamonds (LGDs), has raised Rs 202 crore through a Qualified Institutional Placement (QIP). Facilitated by Monarch Networth Capital, the QIP saw participation from prominent investors like Morgan Stanley. The funds will drive the expansion of Goldiam's consumer-facing LGD brand, ORIGEM, which plans to open 70 to 90 stores across India in the next 18 to 24 months.

Goldiam's fundraise is the largest in India's lab-grown diamond retail sector, nearly doubling the size of competing venture capital-backed deals. With six stores opened in the past 10 months, a debt-free balance sheet, and a history of returning nearly Rs 200 crore to shareholders through dividends and buybacks, Goldiam is poised for sustainable growth. The company projects 15% to 20% growth in sales and profitability this year, fueled by its global B2B operations and expanding B2C retail presence in India.

Anmol Bhansali, Director at Goldiam, emphasized the transformative potential of the fundraise: "This capital will help us accelerate ORIGEM's expansion and make lab-grown diamond jewelry more sustainable, accessible, and aspirational for Indian consumers."

These funding successes underscore the vibrant potential of India's startup ecosystem, with Mithila Foods and Goldiam leading the charge in their respective domains. As they scale up, both companies are set to redefine consumer experiences, blending regional authenticity and sustainable innovation.

TikTok and AliExpress Unblocked in India After Five-Year Ban

The Chinese video-streaming platform TikTok and the shopping website AliExpress have been unblocked in India after a five-year ban, marking a significant development in the country's digital landscape. However, the TikTok app remains unavailable on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The Indian government had imposed a ban on TikTok and 58 other Chinese apps in June 2020, citing national security concerns during heightened tensions with China following the Galwan Valley clash.

According to a report by Business Today, several users can now access TikTok's website in India, although the app itself is still not available for download. Neither TikTok nor its parent company, ByteDance, has issued an official statement regarding the platform's return to India. Similarly, AliExpress, a popular Chinese e-commerce platform, has also been unblocked, allowing users to access its website once again.

The ban on these apps was enforced under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, which allows the government to block access to digital platforms deemed a threat to national security. Alongside TikTok, other apps like ShareIt, UC Browser, and UC News were also prohibited in 2020. The decision came at a time when India-China relations were strained, particularly due to border tensions.

The unblocking of TikTok's website coincides with signs of improving diplomatic relations between India and China. Recent discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi focused on maintaining peace along the border, resuming border trade, and encouraging investment. However, the Indian government has not yet made an official announcement regarding the lifting of the ban on the TikTok app itself.

Meanwhile, TikTok faces challenges in other parts of the world. In the United States, ByteDance has been issued an ultimatum to sell its operations or face a potential ban. Interestingly, the White House recently launched its official TikTok account, with its first post featuring a video of President Donald Trump. In the video, Trump stated, "Every day, I wake up determined to deliver a better life for the people of this country. I am your voice." The caption read, "America, we are back."

The partial return of TikTok and AliExpress in India has sparked discussions about the future of Chinese apps in the country. While the websites are now accessible, the absence of the TikTok app on major app stores suggests that the Indian government is proceeding cautiously. For now, users await further clarity on whether these platforms will fully resume operations in India.

Mrunmayi Desai: India's Leading Expert in CLM and CPQ

In India's fast-paced IT industry, where efficient contract management and smooth sales processes are vital for success, Mrunmayi Desai stands out as the country's top expert in Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) and Configure, Price, Quote (CPQ). As the Director, Technical at Incodev Technologies Pvt Ltd, based in Vadodara, Desai has transformed how businesses handle contracts and pricing workflows. With a perfect success rate across over 100 major CLM and CPQ projects, she is the go-to professional for companies in India seeking reliable, game-changing solutions.

Strong Academic Background

Desai's path to becoming India's leading CLM and CPQ expert started with a Masters' in Computer Science from the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, a top global institution for technology and engineering. This strong academic foundation gave her deep knowledge in algorithms, software engineering, and systems design. These skills drive her innovative approach to CLM and CPQ. Her education sharpened her problem-solving abilities, allowing her to tackle complex IT challenges with precision and creativity, making her a key figure in India's tech scene.

Over a Decade of Expertise

With more than 10 years of experience in IT consulting and implementation, Desai has successfully completed over 100 high-profile CLM and CPQ projects for clients in industries like manufacturing, hi-tech, healthcare, financial services, and software. Before starting Incodev Technologies in 2021, she worked with Conga (formerly Apttus), a global leader in CLM and CPQ solutions. This experience sharpened her skills in using enterprise-grade tools and integrating CLM and CPQ with Salesforce platforms to boost efficiency and revenue.

As Managing Director of Incodev, Desai has made the company a trusted Conga Partner, delivering over 20 CLM and CPQ projects with flawless results. Her leadership focuses on innovation and client success, aligning with Incodev's mission to provide cutting-edge consulting services. Desai's blend of technical and functional expertise allows her to excel in improving business processes, designing enterprise systems, and mentoring teams, cementing her reputation as a thought leader in India's IT industry.

Certified Expertise and Unique Methods

As a certified CLM and CPQ expert, Desai is known for streamlining contract and pricing processes, improving efficiency, compliance, and risk management. Her work with Conga has made her an authority in integrating these systems with Salesforce, creating solutions tailored to the unique needs of the Indian market. Desai's innovative implementation approach ensures smooth transitions for clients, with user-friendly integrations and proactive problem-solving that minimize disruptions and save costs.

Her 100 percent success rate reflects her meticulous attention to detail. Her projects consistently surpass client expectations, delivering faster processes, better scalability, and improved performance. This has made her a trusted partner for businesses across India, from startups to large enterprises, looking to optimize their contract and pricing systems.

Transforming Indian Industries

Through Incodev, Desai has led transformative CLM and CPQ projects that provide excellent user experiences and clear business results. Her work has empowered companies in critical sectors like finance and healthcare, where efficient contract management and accurate pricing are essential for compliance and growth. By addressing India-specific challenges, such as diverse regulations and complex processes, Desai has set a new standard for CLM and CPQ implementations in the country.

Beyond her technical achievements, Desai is a strong advocate for women in technology. Her LinkedIn article, "Women in Corporates & Startups," reflects her commitment to empowering women and fostering innovation in India's tech industry. Her leadership inspires the next generation, especially women, to break barriers and succeed in IT.

Looking Ahead

Desai's vision goes beyond CLM and CPQ. She plans to expand Incodev's expertise into emerging areas like IOT, Automation, and AI agents to meet the changing needs of Indian businesses. Her client-focused approach and technical skills position Incodev as a leader in connecting technology with business success in India.

Mrunmayi Desai's unmatched expertise and dedication have made her India's top authority in CLM and CPQ. As she leads Incodev Technologies, her influence is shaping the future of IT in India, showing that true expertise can deliver transformative results. With a legacy of innovation and success, Desai is a trailblazer and an inspiration, encouraging businesses and professionals to embrace seamless contract and pricing solutions.

Hema and Dharmendra's Secret Sholay Love Story Unveiled by Stunt Double

Fifty years after Sholay revolutionized Indian cinema, the off-screen romance between Hema Malini and Dharmendra continues to enchant fans. Their love, which sparked during the film's production, was a closely guarded secret on set, as revealed by Reshma Pathan, Hema Malini's stunt double. In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Times, the 71-year-old Reshma shares juicy details about the couple's discreet affection and her own thrilling role in the iconic film.

Reshma, who executed all of Hema's daring stunts in Sholay, recalls, "Everyone on set knew Hemaji and Dharamji were in love, but they kept it under wraps. They stayed apart during shoots, each with their own crew." Despite staying in the same hotel, they maintained separate rooms and entourages. "Back then, actors kept their personal lives private. Hemaji spent time with her team, including me, while Dharamji stuck with his," she explains. Reflecting on their lasting bond, Reshma says with pride, "Seeing them together today is heartwarming. They're a true Bollywood love story."

Directed by Ramesh Sippy and written by Salim-Javed, Sholay, featuring Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjeev Kumar, Amjad Khan, and Jaya Bachchan alongside Hema and Dharmendra, remains a cinematic landmark. For Reshma, the film was life-changing. "I became 'The Sholay Girl' after this. No other project earned me such respect," she shares. Her close bond with Hema led to collaborations in multiple films. "We'd eat and chat together; she even welcomed me into her home," Reshma recalls.

A standout memory is a risky Holi sequence stunt, after which Dharmendra gifted her ₹100. "I hesitated, but my mentor urged me to accept it, saying Dharamji was thrilled with my work," she chuckles. Another iconic moment, Basanti's tonga crash, came with a price. "The crew forgot to use a prop wheel, and the tonga collapsed on me. I needed 17 stitches in my leg, bruised my other leg, and injured my back, but that scene became legendary," she says.

Hema and Dharmendra's romance began in 1970 on Tum Haseen Main Jawaan. They tied the knot in 1980 and have two daughters, Esha and Ahana Deol. The pair starred in blockbusters like Seeta Aur Geeta and Dream Girl, solidifying their status as Bollywood's golden couple. As Sholay marks its 50th anniversary, Reshma's tales remind us why the film and its real-life romance remain unforgettable.

The Price of Devotion: Art of Living’s “Mandatory Donation” Sparks Exodus

In the heart of India's spiritual landscape, where the teachings of Sudarshan Kriya—a powerful breathing technique—have uplifted countless lives, a growing unease is rippling through the Art of Living (AOL) community. The organization, built on the pillars of Seva (selfless service), Satsang (community in truth), and Sadhana (spiritual practice), has long been a beacon for those seeking inner peace. Yet, a recent policy requiring a "mandatory donation" of 2 lakhs (200,000 rupees) for teachers aspiring to become Sahaj Samadhi instructors has ignited a firestorm of criticism. This steep financial barrier, coupled with the organization's non-paying teacher model, has led many dedicated teachers to question the alignment of AOL's practices with its preached philosophy—and many are walking away.

For years, AOL teachers have embodied the spirit of seva, offering Sudarshan Kriya and Happiness Program workshops without financial compensation. These teachers, often sacrificing stable careers and personal savings, travel to urban slums and rural villages, spreading messages of joy and mindfulness. Their work is rooted in the belief that service is its own reward, a tenet echoed in AOL's teachings. But the introduction of a 2-lakh "donation" to access Sahaj Samadhi teacher training—a program that promises to deepen one's ability to guide others into effortless meditation—has shattered this idealism for many.

The term "mandatory donation" itself is a point of contention. Framed as a contribution to support the ashram's global initiatives, it functions as a non-negotiable fee. Teachers, already stretched thin by unpaid service, face a stark choice: pay a sum equivalent to months of income or forgo advancing their spiritual and teaching journey. For many, this feels less like seva and more like a transaction—one that contradicts the non-materialistic ethos AOL promotes. The suggestion that this payment is an "investment" only deepens the unease. Teachers aren't salaried; course fees flow directly to the organization. Recovering such a sum would require pushing more enrollments or subtly prioritizing paid programs, turning selfless service into a business model. "Is this what sadhana has become?" one former teacher wrote anonymously online. "A paywall for devotion?"

This policy is not an isolated grievance. Whispers in teacher circles and online forums reveal a broader pattern. Volunteers pay hundreds to learn how to volunteer, teachers shell out thousands for mandatory trainings, and advanced courses come with hefty price tags—$5,500 for teacher training in the US, with similar "donations" in India piling up. Critics argue this creates a hierarchy where only the financially privileged can ascend, while grassroots teachers, often the backbone of AOL's outreach, are left struggling. Reports of the organization's leadership enjoying lavish lifestyles—private jets, grand events—while teachers scrape by have fueled accusations of a spiritual empire profiting off devotion.

The fallout is evident: many teachers have started going away from Art of Living after this. Disillusioned by what they see as a betrayal of the organization's core values, they are leaving quietly or voicing their dissent in anonymous blogs and forums. "True seva doesn't demand a bank balance," one ex-teacher wrote. "Satsang shouldn't exclude the poor. Sadhana isn't a product to be sold." These voices, once drowned out by the organization's global reach, are growing louder, joining a chorus of former devotees who feel AOL has strayed from its mission.

The Sahaj Samadhi training fee is more than a financial burden; it's a symbol of a deeper rift. For those who remain, the question lingers: Can an organization preaching the art of living justify turning devotion into a commodity? For the many who have left, the answer is clear—they've found their own "Sahaj," a spontaneous freedom, not in the ashram's halls but in walking away from a philosophy that feels increasingly like a business. As the exodus grows, AOL faces a critical challenge: reconcile its practices with its preachings or risk losing the very souls who once carried its message to the world.

DDUGU Becomes First University in Eastern Uttar Pradesh to Launch Work-Linked Degree Programs

Gorakhpur, 13th August 2025: Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University (DDUGU) has taken a pioneering step in higher education by becoming the first university in Eastern Uttar Pradesh to launch Work-Linked Degree Programs, in partnership with TeamLease EdTech, India's leading learning and employability solutions company.

The university has introduced five programs under this initiative: BBA, B.Com (Hons), MA English, MBA, and M.Com (Hons), comprising two undergraduate and three postgraduate programs. These programs are specially designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world industry exposure, enabling students to "learning by doing" and "earning while learning."

Through these programs, students will gain valuable work experience alongside their education, significantly enhancing their employability in the region and contributing to the development of a future-ready workforce. The curriculum has been carefully crafted to be flexible and industry-aligned, ensuring that students acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical skills without compromising academic rigour.

Prof. Poonam Tandon, Vice Chancellor of Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University, expressed her enthusiasm about the launch, "This is a proud moment for the university. The launch of Work-Linked Degree Programs reflects our commitment to the vision outlined in the National Education Policy 2020, which advocates for integrating education with hands-on experience. By enabling students to work while they study, we are fostering holistic, employability-focused education that empowers our youth and contributes to the development of Uttar Pradesh."

Mr. Shantanu Rooj, Founder and CEO of TeamLease EdTech, added, "We are delighted to partner with Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University in launching these unique programs. The future of higher education lies in integrating work and learning, and DDUGU is leading the way. This model not only improves learning outcomes but also ensures that students become financially independent and professionally prepared while still studying."

These Work-Linked Degree Programs align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises the integration of vocational education and on-the-job training within formal degree frameworks. With this launch, Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University has positioned itself at the forefront of educational innovation in the region.

Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gorakhpur University, founded in 1950, is the first university in Uttar Pradesh to emerge as a leading higher studies centre after Independence. It has earned an A++ accreditation from NAAC for its relentless pursuit of its motto, "Let the noble thoughts come to us from all directions," which reflects its openness to diverse perspectives, cultures, and values in its academic and organizational spheres.

The university bears the name of the eminent political philosopher, Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya. It is situated in Gorakhpur, where it draws inspiration from the spiritual, philosophical, patriotic, and philanthropic heritage of Gautam Buddha, Sant Kabir, Guru Gorakshnath, Bismil, Hanuman Prasad Poddar, and the world-famous Gita Press.

The university spans 190.96 acres and comprises eight faculties with forty departments that have been instrumental in providing holistic education to the people of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Western Bihar, and Nepal since its inception. As a residential-cum-affiliating State University with academic jurisdiction over three districts of Eastern Uttar Pradesh, it boasts of a rich academic legacy, distinguished alumni, competent, qualified, and committed faculty members, a transparent and efficient administrative system, ample career growth opportunities, advanced research facilities, and a lively and secure campus.

TeamLease EdTech is India's leading Learning and Employability solution company. It helps universities launch, run and manage their own Online/ODL Programs, improve the employability of their students through its apprenticeship programs and helps employers build talent supply chains along with improving employee productivity. Through its cloud-hosted, mobile-first, managed services platform, TL EdTech provides a wide range of services - enrollment, learning, upskilling, apprenticeships, student support and assessment - helping customers improve access and learning outcomes. TeamLease EdTech has exclusive partnerships with over 60 of India's largest Universities and Premier Institutions across 16 Indian states, and it trains 7 Lakh students on its platform through 9 Indian languages, works with 1200 corporates in their upskilling/skilling initiatives and manages over 200 degree, diploma, and certificate programs.

From a Rs 2000 Room to a Retail Empire: The Inspiring Growth Story of Vijay Sales

In the bustling streets of Mumbai, where dreams often collide with the harsh realities of urban life, one man's vision transformed a modest Rs 2000 investment into a sprawling electronics retail empire. Vijay Sales, a household name in consumer electronics across India, embodies the quintessential rags-to-riches tale of perseverance, innovation, and customer-centric business acumen. Founded in 1967 by Nanu Gupta in a tiny 200-square-foot room in Mahim, the company has evolved from a humble television and appliance showroom into a multi-chain network spanning multiple states, boasting over 150 stores and billions in revenue. Today, as we trace its journey, Vijay Sales stands as a testament to how strategic growth, family legacy, and adaptability can propel a small venture to national prominence.

The Humble Beginnings: A Borrowed Dream Takes Root

Nanu Gupta, born in 1942 in Punjab and relocating to Bombay (now Mumbai) in 1954, started his entrepreneurial journey with grit and determination. Before venturing into retail, he worked as a distributor for Usha electric fans, gaining invaluable insights into the consumer goods market. In 1967, armed with just Rs 2000 borrowed from family and friends, Gupta opened Vijay Television Store in Mahim, a cramped space that initially sold sewing machines, fans, and transistors. This modest setup, often referred to as the Rs 2000 room, was far from glamorous, but it laid the foundation for what would become a retail powerhouse.

The early years were marked by slow but steady progress. By 1972, the store expanded its offerings to include black-and-white televisions at a new location in Matunga, capitalizing on the growing demand for home entertainment. The real turning point came in 1982 with the introduction of color televisions, which coincided with a market boom in India as television broadcasting expanded. Gupta's strategy was simple yet effective: prioritize customer satisfaction through honest dealings, competitive pricing, and exceptional service. He would personally visit customers to resolve complaints and kept TV sets switched on in the showroom to draw in passersby, creating an inviting atmosphere that fostered loyalty.

The company was formally registered in 1976, and in 1981, it was rebranded as Vijay Sales, reflecting its broadening scope beyond televisions. It took over two decades to open the second branch, a testament to Gupta's cautious approach to growth. In 1986, the first expansion occurred with a 600-square-foot store in Bandra, followed by outlets in Shivaji Park (700 sq ft) and Sion (1500 sq ft) in 1994. By the mid-2000s, Vijay Sales had 8-10 stores in Mumbai and introduced innovative display concepts, allowing customers to interact with products, a novel idea at the time that set it apart from competitors.

The Expansion Era: Scaling New Heights

The true acceleration of Vijay Sales' growth began after 2007, when the company shifted from a Mumbai-centric operation to a regional powerhouse. Expansions into Pune, Surat, Delhi, and Ahmedabad marked the beginning of its multi-city presence. By 2010, the chain had ventured into Gujarat and the National Capital Region (NCR), tapping into emerging markets with rising disposable incomes and a burgeoning middle class.

A pivotal milestone came in 2019 with the acquisition of Tirumala Music Center (TMC), a consumer durables retail chain in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Rebranded under Vijay Sales, this move significantly boosted its footprint in southern India, adding stores in Hyderabad, Vijayawada, and Warangal. Today, the network spans Maharashtra, Gujarat, Delhi, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, with showrooms designed to cater to diverse budgets and preferences. Each store offers over 5000 products across more than 15 categories, from smartphones and laptops to home appliances and audio systems.

Family involvement has been crucial to this expansion. Nanu Gupta's son, Nilesh Gupta, joined in 1992, bringing operational expertise, while another son, Ashish Gupta, contributed modern management insights. In 2019, grandson Karan Gupta entered the fray, focusing on digital transformation and omni-channel retail, leveraging the company's e-commerce platform (vijaysales.com) to blend online and offline experiences, especially vital post-pandemic.

Current Achievements: A Modern Retail Giant

As of 2025, Vijay Sales operates approximately 157 stores nationwide, employing around 8000 people and maintaining a robust supply chain with well-connected warehouses. The company's revenue has soared to around Rs 11000 crores, a staggering leap from its humble origins, with ambitions to reach 200 stores by the end of the year. This growth is underpinned by strong partnerships with global brands, efficient post-sales services, and a commitment to affordability, making high-quality electronics accessible to millions.

Vijay Sales' success isn't just in numbers; it's in its enduring ethos. From keeping showrooms spotless and products demo-ready to offering flexible payment options and doorstep deliveries, the company has built a loyal customer base that spans generations.

Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Innovation

The story of Vijay Sales is more than a business narrative; it's an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. From that Rs 2000 room in Mahim, which has now expanded to a 40000-square-foot landmark, to a multi-chain network driving India's retail revolution, Nanu Gupta's vision continues to thrive through his family's stewardship. As the company eyes further digital integration and market expansions, Vijay Sales is poised to double its sales in the coming years, proving that with honesty, hard work, and adaptability, even the smallest beginnings can lead to extraordinary heights. In an era of rapid technological change, Vijay Sales remains a beacon of reliable growth, illuminating the path for India's retail future.