Category: News

Krea Community Awards 2026 : Celebrating Student-Led Impact, Creativity, and Community

Ram Kumar News

For the very first time on 23 March 2026, Krea University witnessed a landmark moment in its campus life with the introduction of the Krea Community Awards, an initiative by the Office of Student Life. Conceived as a platform to recognise and celebrate the incredible work of student-led communities, the awards mark a significant step towards building a culture of appreciation, reflection, and shared achievement.

At its core, the Krea Community Awards aim to honour student organisations that embody the university’s values—collaboration, inclusivity, ethics, and meaningful impact—while also ensuring a transparent and participatory recognition process. More than just an awards ceremony, this initiative represents a celebration of the vibrancy, diversity, and dedication that define student life at Krea.

Recognising Excellence Across the University

The awards were structured across two broad categories: University Awards, which recognise excellence across all programmes, and Programme-Specific Awards, which highlight outstanding contributions within individual schools.

At the highest level of recognition, the University Awards celebrated communities that have demonstrated exceptional impact while truly embodying Krea’s core values. The Spirit of Krea Award, the university’s highest honour, was awarded to SAHAS, the Adventure Club at SIAS. With over 1,000 members, SAHAS has built a deeply inclusive and vibrant community centred around connection and shared experiences. From Eastern Ghats bike trips to Himalayan expeditions and collaborations with initiatives like the Happiness Project, their efforts have consistently fostered belonging and reflected the very ethos of Krea.

Alongside this, the Krea Impact and Excellence Award was presented to Aikyatha, the Social Outreach Club at SIAS, for their sustained and meaningful contributions to social impact. Through initiatives such as their work with the Raise a Child orphanage in Sullurpeta and the Boystown programme in Gummidipundi, Aikyatha has demonstrated a strong commitment to responsibility and community engagement.

Equally inspiring was the recognition of sustainability efforts through the Most Sustainable Community Award, awarded to Prakriti, the Environment Club at SIAS. Prakriti has made sustainability both accessible and engaging for the campus community. From organising clean-up drives in collaboration with the Sri City Administration to promoting circular fashion through thrift initiatives, their work integrates environmental consciousness into everyday student life. Their exhibitions, newsletters, and upcoming sustainable fashion show further underscore their commitment to fostering awareness and inspiring change.

The Community Engagement and Advocacy Award was presented to Samarthan, Social Service Committee at IFMR GSB, for their consistent and impactful programming. Through initiatives such as blood donation drives with the Red Cross, Wish Tree, and Lakshmi Bal Mahotsav, Samarthan has created meaningful avenues for student participation while addressing real social needs. Their ability to combine creativity with sustained engagement has helped cultivate a strong sense of empathy and collective responsibility within the campus.

Recognising emerging potential, the Best Emerging Community Award went to Ascent, the BBA club at IFMR GSB. Despite being relatively new, Ascent has made a remarkable mark through innovative, high-energy initiatives such as Deal or No Deal, Ascent Banayega Crorepati, and Boardroom Breakdown. These events not only encourage participation but also bridge the gap between theory and practice, enabling students to develop leadership, teamwork, and strategic thinking skills in dynamic environments.

A special highlight of this year’s awards was the introduction of the Best Initiative Award, presented to BOLT, organised by the Krea Sports Club at SIAS. This recognition celebrated BOLT’s successful transition into an intercollegiate event, bringing together over 15 colleges and more than 400 participants. This milestone reflects the growing ambition and organisational capability of student communities at Krea, setting a strong precedent for future initiatives.

Celebrating Programme-Specific Achievements

The Programme-Specific Awards further showcased the breadth of talent and initiative across Krea’s schools.

In the MBA category for Social, Community, and Student Life, the IFMR Sports Committee, BSportive emerged as the winner. Their wide range of sporting events—from badminton and football to cricket and esports—has played a crucial role in fostering camaraderie, participation, and a spirit of healthy competition across campus. Their work highlights the importance of sports as a unifying force within the student community.

Within SIAS, the Academic Development Award was presented to INARA, the Business Club at SIAS. Through over ten events in a single academic year, INARA has worked consistently to make entrepreneurship more approachable and engaging. Their sessions, including ‘Intro to Taxes’, ‘Women in the Workplace’,and panel discussions with industry experts, reflect a strong commitment to peer-led learning and intellectual growth.

The Arts, Culture, and Performance Award recognised Mudra, the Dance Club at SIAS for its vibrant contribution to campus life. By creating inclusive spaces for self-expression and cultural celebration, the club has brought students together through initiatives such as Aarambham, Panchabhutam, and the annual Just Dance event. Their workshops—ranging from Garba to Kalaripayattu and Zumba—demonstrate both diversity and dedication to the performing arts.

In the Social, Community, and Student Life category for SIAS, the Psychology Society at SIAS was honoured for its efforts in making psychology engaging and accessible beyond the classroom. Through initiatives like psychology-themed Jeopardy and expressive arts-based activities, the society has fostered dialogue, reflection, and a deeper understanding of human behaviour, all while strengthening community bonds.

In addition to the award ceremony, Krea Community Awards also witnessed interesting student performances that made for an enriching experience.

A Celebration of Student Spirit

What made the Krea Community Awards truly special was not just the recognition of achievements, but the stories behind them—the late nights spent organising events, the challenges overcome, the collaborations forged, and the passion that drives each initiative.

As the first event of its kind at Krea, the awards have set a strong foundation for a tradition that celebrates student excellence in all its forms. They serve as both recognition and inspiration, honouring what has been accomplished while encouraging communities to continue pushing boundaries and creating impact.

In many ways, the Krea Community Awards are a reflection of what makes the university unique: a deeply engaged student body, a commitment to meaningful work, and a shared belief in the power of community.

Input by: The Office of Student Life 

Written by: Sanjana Raman, Campus Communications Associate 

Photo Credits: Shutterbugs, IFMR GSB 

BOLT 2026: Krea University’s Sports Fest Goes Intercollegiate

Ram Kumar News

From early morning matches to electrifying finals under the lights, BOLT 2026, Krea University’s annual sports festival, transformed the campus into a vibrant arena of competition, teamwork, and student leadership from 6–8 March 2026. What began in 2022 as an intra-university sporting event reached a significant milestone this year, as BOLT was organised as an intercollegiate sports fest for the first time, welcoming athletes from universities across Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.

Over the course of three days, more than 330 student-athletes from over 20 colleges competed in a packed schedule of matches that ran from early morning until late in the evening. The festival brought together sport, community, and campus culture, with players, volunteers, and spectators contributing to the high-energy atmosphere across the university grounds.

From House Competition to Intercollegiate Arena

BOLT was first introduced in 2022-23 as a house-based competition within Krea University. Students were divided into four houses: Poseidon, Persephone, Athena, and Ares, competing across a variety of indoor and outdoor sports including basketball, football, volleyball, badminton, tennis, kabaddi, tug of war, dodgeball, table tennis, marathons, gym events, carrom, chess, and even light-hearted games such as rock-paper-scissors.

Over time, the event grew in scale and ambition. The 2026 edition marked a new chapter, expanding the festival into a full-fledged intercollegiate competition that brought together institutions including SSN College of Engineering, Saveetha University, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) Chennai, SDNB Vaishnav College for Women, Ethiraj College, Center for Management Studies (CMS) Jain University, Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), and several others.

Across the three days, more than 110 matches were played across six major sports leagues: football, basketball, volleyball, cricket, badminton, and tennis, featuring both men’s and women’s categories. A kayaking event added an adventurous element to the festival, with participants travelling to a nearby lake for the competition.

Three Days of Competition and Campus Energy

The festival opened with a ceremony that brought together athletes, organisers, and the campus community. Addressing the gathering was sailor Dheer Singhi, who recently completed a 900 km international offshore expedition in eight days. Reflecting on the values that sport cultivates, he encouraged students to embrace both challenge and perseverance.

“Sports demands discipline and steadfastness. It can challenge you in many ways, but at the end of the day it teaches patience and pushes you to give your fullest, which makes it completely worthwhile,” he said.

Following the opening ceremony, the campus came alive with matches taking place simultaneously across multiple venues. Football fixtures continued late into the night, basketball and volleyball matches drew enthusiastic crowds, and the cricket tournament saw teams compete at the Sri City Cricket Ground.

The final day featured the semi-finals and championship matches, where teams competed for the prestigious BOLT Cup in each sport and cash prizes up to Rs 25,000 across categories.

Among the winners, CMS Jain University clinched the Men’s Basketball title, while Ethiraj College secured victory in Women’s Basketball. Mar Gregorios College emerged as the winners in Cricket, and Krea University lifted the trophy in Men’s Football, with Golden Strikers Football Team winning the Women’s Football category. In Volleyball, Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering won the Men’s title, while VIT Chennai emerged as champions in Women’s Volleyball.

Individual competitions also saw strong performances. In Badminton, Rishita won the Women’s Singles, while Yashendra secured the Men’s Singles title. Sharvani and Dissha won Women’s Doubles, Satvik and Hirithik won Men’s Doubles, and Hirithik and Sharvani clinched the Mixed Doubles category.

In Tennis, Rhea Ampte won Women’s Singles, while Surya claimed the Men’s Singles title. The Men’s Doubles title went to Kriish Subhuramaniyam and V J Leela Goutham, while Kriish Subhuramaniyam and Dhanya P won the Mixed Doubles category.

A Student-Led Festival

At the heart of BOLT 2026 was a strong spirit of student leadership and collaboration. The entire festival was organised by a team of 35–40 student organisers, who spent months planning and executing the event. They were ably supported by members of the administration team such as the Chief Administration Officer and the Office of Student Life (OSL). 

The organising committee was led by Angel Bothra, SIAS Cohort of 2024–28 and Aavya Kedia, SIAS Cohort of 2023–26. Working alongside them, the student team was divided into five operational groups such as outreach, logistics, finance, social media, and design, each responsible for different aspects of the festival, from coordinating visiting teams and managing venues to securing sponsorships and documenting the matches.

Their efforts ensured the smooth execution of an event that hosted hundreds of participants and required coordination across multiple venues, schedules, and support teams. On-ground volunteers assisted with registration desks, crowd management, hospitality for visiting teams, and match operations throughout the three days.

Sport, Culture, and Community

Beyond the matches themselves, BOLT 2026 created a lively festival atmosphere across campus. Food stalls and sponsor activations added to the experience, while cultural performances — including a dance showcase by TBD Dance Crew, the band Wildcard from Krea University, and a live music performance by the band Soul Jams, brought students together after a day of competition.

Supported by 13 sponsors and several partners who contributed equipment, logistics, and prizes, the festival reflected the scale and collaborative effort behind the event.

Sport as a Platform for Holistic Growth

As the closing ceremony concluded and teams celebrated their victories, BOLT 2026 stood as a testament to the power of student-led initiatives and the role of sport in shaping campus life.

More than just a tournament, the festival offered students opportunities to develop leadership, teamwork, and organisational skills while building connections with peers from institutions across the region. By bringing together competition, collaboration, and community spirit, BOLT continues to reflect Krea University’s broader vision of education — one that values experiences beyond the classroom as an integral part of student development.

By: Sanjana Raman, Campus Communication Associate 

Information Credit: Aditya Akash Trigunayat, SIAS cohort of 2023-27, Krea University & Amulya Amar Kumar, SIAS cohort of 2024-28, Krea University 

Beyond Competitions: Inside the Energy of Abhyudaya 2026

Ram Kumar News

Management fests are often seen as a staple of business schools, a calendar fixture that comes and goes every year. But beneath the surface, these festivals represent something far more meaningful. They are dynamic spaces where classrooms extend into real-world arenas, where ideas meet execution, and where students translate theory into action. From planning and logistics to branding and partnerships, management fests offer experiential learning at its most immersive.

They also serve as powerful expressions of institutional identity. Through competitions, performances, collaborations, and conversations, such fests showcase the spirit of a campus — its creativity, diversity, and ambition. Participants not only compete but also collaborate, network, and build connections with peers, alumni, and industry professionals. For organisers, the process cultivates leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills that no textbook can replicate.

It is within this vibrant context that Abhyudaya 2026, the flagship annual management fest of the IFMR Graduate School of Business at Krea University, unfolded over two electrifying days on February 20 and 21, 2026. Now in its 16th edition, the festival brought together students, performers, and collaborators in a celebration of enterprise, culture, and community. The chief guest for this year, Vivek Sethia, President and founder of Insura Inc addressed the students and offered them entrepreneurial advice and practices to follow to become successful individuals in their personal and professional life. 

A Confluence of Strategy and Celebration

Abhyudaya has steadily grown into a defining campus tradition; one that blends rigorous competition with high-energy cultural engagement. This year’s edition saw wide participation across colleges in India and student clubs of IFMR GSB at Krea University comprising the following:

  • Markaholic, the marketing club hosted Market Mayhem where teams pitched creative brand collaboration strategies through presentations. Team Macedonians (IFMR GSB, Krea University) won the competition, followed by Team Artha (Sri Venkateswara University) in second place and Team The Storytellers in third.
  • Intellics, the Data Science club hosted DECIPHER 5.0 which tested participants on analytics, finance, and business problem-solving through a fintech case focused on customer churn in a digital payment platform. Team Doodlers (Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai), Team Data Ninjas (IFMR GSB, Krea University) and Team Strat IQ (IFMR GSB, Krea University), emerged as winners. 
  • Optemux, the Operations club hosted Ops Fusion which aimed at testing the participants’ problem-solving and analytical thinking skills. Team Impact Minds (Chennai Institute of Technology) secured the first place, followed by Team Artha (Shri Venkateswara College of Engineering, Chennai), University of Delhi and Team Welookup (Welingkar Institute of Management).
  • Arthasabha, the Finance Committee organised Portfolio Maestro which challenged participants to design investment strategies for diverse investor profiles. Team Finfox (NIBM, Pune) won the competition, followed by Team Finance Addicts (IFMR GSB, Krea University) in second place and Team Sankalp (IFMR GSB, Krea University) in third place. 
  • Synergy conducted a national- level HR strategy competition called Talent Matrix that tested participants on designing CVs, JD and HR-decision making rounds. The event offered hands-on exposure to real-world HR challenges. Team Alpha Q secured first place, followed by Team Prime Trio in second place and Team HR Heritage in third place. 
  • The MUN Club of IFMR GSB, Krea University organised Chanakya’s Circle 1.0, featuring an Oxford-style debate format. Vikramman and Vanshita Sharma (IFMR GSB, Krea University) secured first place, followed by Siddharth Singh and Naren P S (SDMIMD) in second place and Vedaniya Ruchit Hiteshbhai and Dheeraj Bakshi (IMI Bhubaneswar) in third place.
  • Raga, the music club of IFMR GSB, Krea University hosted Sur-Sangam at the Open Air Theatre as part of Abhyudaya 2026. Bands performed multilingual sets based on the theme of the fest, bringing a lively musical atmosphere to the campus. Dan B (SIAS, Krea University) secured first place, followed by Daffodils (IFMR GSB, Krea University) in second place and Versatile Vocals in third place.
  • The Consulting Committee organised Consigliere, a national-level case study competition. An MSME transformation case was presented to the participants which encouraged them to present their strategies to address the real-world business case at hand. Shourya and Ankit Paul (IFMR GSB, Krea University) emerged as winners, followed by Rajput Adit Arun Singh (Sri Venkateswara College of Engineering, Chennai) in second place and Pradeep Sharma (IIM Trichy) in third place.
  • The Quiz Club of IFMR GSB, Krea University hosted Unity Q, bringing together teams for a fast-paced quiz competition. Power Rangers (IFMR GSB, Krea University) secured first place, followed by Demon Tycoons in second place and FinanceGeek (Welingkar Institute) in third place.
  • The Speakers’ Club at IFMR GSB, Krea University organised Rhetoric Realm which encouraged participants to display their communication, creative thinking and articulation skills. Team Macedonians emerged as winners, followed by Team Batman and Team Mavericks. 
  • The 6-A-side Futsal tournament delivered fast-paced action and competitive matches. Teams showcased teamwork and competitive spirit, with IFMR A emerging as winners under the captaincy of Amritesh Verma. 

The competitions were designed not just to identify winners but to simulate real-world problem-solving environments. Participants navigated tight timelines, evolving briefs, and high-stakes presentations, mirroring the pressures and possibilities of professional life. For many, it was an opportunity to apply classroom learning in tangible ways, while also building confidence and peer networks.

Where Campus Comes Alive

Yet, Abhyudaya has always been more than a competitive platform. As the sun set each evening, the campus transformed into a vibrant cultural hub. Live concerts and performances drew enthusiastic crowds, creating moments of shared joy and celebration. Music, lights, and an electric atmosphere ensured that the fest resonated far beyond auditoriums and competition halls. This year the fest witnessed two high-performing bands – Elfe choir, a renowned Chennai-based vocal group and Miraazz, a Delhi-based Sufi band. In addition to this, stalls, games, and informal gathering spaces added another layer to the experience, turning the festival into a lived, collective memory. Students, families, and visitors mingled across spaces, reinforcing the sense of togetherness that defines the Abhyudaya spirit. These quieter moments punctuated by laughter between events, spontaneous conversations, and late-evening reflections, often became the most memorable.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

What makes Abhyudaya truly significant is the ecosystem it creates. By bringing together organisers, participants, and audiences, the fest becomes a microcosm of the professional world. Students step into roles as planners, marketers, designers, negotiators, and leaders learning to manage complexity while maintaining creativity.

Such platforms also open doors to meaningful engagement beyond campus. Interactions with guests, judges, and collaborators provide exposure to industry expectations and evolving professional landscapes. For many students, these encounters spark new aspirations and directions.

A Festival, A Legacy

Sixteen editions in, Abhyudaya continues to evolve while staying rooted in its core purpose: building a community that celebrates initiative and shared growth. It reflects the ethos of a new-generation management education: one that values not just academic excellence but also creativity, collaboration, and social connection.

As the final performances concluded and the lights dimmed, Abhyudaya 2026 left behind more than memories. It reaffirmed the enduring value of student-led spaces that inspire learning, belonging, and possibility, reminding everyone that the true impact of a management fest lies not just in what unfolds over two days, but in the experiences that shape the journeys beyond them.

Information credit: Nikhil Agarwal, MBA Cohort of 2024-2026, IFMR GSB, Krea University

Krea Kalotsavam 2026: A Week of Art, Culture, and Community

Ram Kumar News

A Celebration to Begin the Year

Marking a celebratory beginning to the new year, Krea Kalotsavam 2026, Krea University’s annual cultural festival, unfolded at the SriCity campus for the second consecutive year as a week-long celebration from 27 to 31st January.  Bringing together musicians, dancers, and artists from across the globe who are masters of their craft, the festival offered the Krea community a pause, a space to slow down, reflect, and reconnect through art. Students, faculty, and staff immersed themselves in an atmosphere that felt both tranquil and energising, a welcome respite from the pace of everyday academic life. Beyond showcasing artistic brilliance, the performances highlighted the cultural depth and diversity embedded within each art form, spanning classical and contemporary traditions, folk music, and movement-based storytelling. At its heart, Kalotsavam celebrated not just performance, but the stories, histories, and lived experiences that give art its meaning, resonating with a wide and varied audience.

Opening Notes: Music Across Traditions

The festival opened on January 27 with an evocative performance by Chennai-based musician Vedanth Bharadwaj. Trained in Indian classical music under Sri Ramamoorthy Rao, Vedanth is known for his ability to move fluidly across genres. His set wove together Indian classical elements with Bhakti and Sufi poetry, folk influences, blues, and Western classical textures, creating a soundscape that was both rooted and experimental. The performance struck a deep chord with listeners, setting the tone for the days to follow

Movement, Memory, and Meaning

On January 28, dancers Eveline Noth and Michel Casanovas presented Dream of an Elsewhere, a nuanced duet that explored themes of slowness, travel, and rediscovering childlike wonder. Through restrained movement and quiet intensity, the performance invited the audience to engage with stillness and introspection.

 This was followed on January 29 by a Carnatic vocal concert organised by SPIC MACAY at Krea, led by Vidushi Amritha Murali. Accompanied by Sangita Kalanidhi Vidwan R K Shriramkumar on the violin, Vidwan Manoj Siva on the mridangam, and Vidwan Anirudh Atreya on the kanjira, the evening was marked by technical brilliance, emotional depth, and a deep reverence for tradition.

Voices from the Margins

The celebrations continued on January 30 with an evening of folk music by Funkybodhi, featuring S. Rani’s Irular Ensemble. S. Rani, lead singer and social activist highlighted the oral traditions and the lived experiences of the Irular community, an indigenous Dravidian group from Tamil Nadu, in the performance to amplifiy voices that have long remained on the margins, blending music with storytelling and social memory.

Of fairs and Performances

Krea Kalotsavam 2026 culminated on January 31 with a Kalamkari workshop led by master craftsmen from Machilipatnam, alongside a vibrant Kalotsavam fair that transformed the campus into a lively gathering space. The fair featured caricature and live sketching, palm weaving, textile and craft stalls, interactive games, and a wide range of food offerings. The evening concluded with spirited student-led performances by Band BBB, Raag Band, Band Wildcard, and the TBD Dance Crew, reflecting the creativity and collaborative spirit of the Krea student community.

Looking Ahead

As Krea looks ahead, Kalotsavam continues to reaffirm the university’s commitment to fostering spaces where art, culture, and community intersect. With each edition, the festival strengthens its role as a platform for dialogue, discovery, and shared celebration, setting the stage for many more moments of creative exchange in the years to come.

Catalysing Entrepreneurship at Krea: The Launch of the Centre for Entrepreneurship

Ram Kumar News

From Ideas to Impact 

On 23 January 2026, Krea University marked an important milestone with the inauguration of the Centre for Entrepreneurship (CFE), supported by Catalyst. The launch brought together inquisitive and aspiring entrepreneurs among students alongside faculty members, and staff from across the Krea community to celebrate the setting up of an incubation centre dedicated to nurturing ideas and transforming them into viable ventures. Envisioned as a space for exploration, experimentation, and mentorship, the Centre aims to provide students with the right guidance, resources, and ecosystem support to build from the ground up.

The inauguration, titled Catalysing Entrepreneurship, was more than a ceremonial launch. It was a day rooted in reflection, dialogue, and learning. The sessions were anchored in thoughtful conversations on what it truly means to build from zero to one, scale with clarity and intent, navigate uncertainty, and engage with the systems that enable founders to grow. These discussions highlighted that entrepreneurship is not a linear journey, but one shaped by curiosity, resilience, and informed decision-making.

Experts Speak

Bringing together a diverse group of voices from across the country, the event reflected the many perspectives that shape entrepreneurship in the real world. Founders, investors, incubator leaders, CEOs and VCs shared insights drawn from their own journeys, speaking candidly about early challenges, pivotal moments, failures, and lessons learned along the way. Their experiences offered students a grounded understanding of the entrepreneurial ecosystem, beyond just ideas and ambition.

The Krea community benefited from the presence and generosity of distinguished speakers and panellists, including Mithun Sacheti, Vishesh Rajaram, Mahavir Pratap Sharma, Manish Saksena, Anand Sri Ganesh, Sujay S, Innu Nevatia, Amit Mehta, and Vipul Sekhsaria. Their conversations underscored the importance of building with purpose, staying adaptable in changing environments, and recognising the value of mentorship and collaboration.

Championing Student - Led Ventures

The day culminated in the conferring of a seed fund by Lakshmi Narayanan, Chancellor, Krea University and Professor Nirmala Rao, Vice Chancellor, Krea University to three students from the School of Interwoven Arts and Sciences (SIAS) – Mitansh Aggarwal, Adwitiya Roy, and Viney Jain – for their start-up Sibling, a digital mental health platform transforming how schools deliver student wellbeing, marking a tangible first step from idea to enterprise.

Onwards & Upwards

At its core, the Centre for Entrepreneurship, supported by Catalyst at Krea University, seeks to embed entrepreneurship as a mindset; one that extends across both academic and co-curricular life. The Centre aims to encourage students to think critically, identify real-world problems, and approach solutions with creativity and responsibility. By fostering an environment that values initiative, experimentation, and interdisciplinary thinking, CFE hopes to empower students to take confident steps toward building meaningful ventures.

As the Centre begins its journey, it does so with the belief that entrepreneurship thrives in communities that learn and grow together. The launch of CFE marks the beginning of such a shared endeavour at Krea; one that will continue to evolve alongside its students, faculty, and partners.

Inaugural Edition of InMarc 2025

Ram Kumar News

The InMarc 2025, an international marketing conference organised by the Area of Marketing at IFMR Graduate School of Business (GSB), Krea University, was successfully held from 5 to 7 December 2025 at the Krea University campus. Centered on the theme ‘Imagining the Future of Marketing: Innovation and Sustainability,’ the three-day conference provided a vibrant platform for scholarly exchange and industry engagement.

The conference featured 11 thematic tracks, encompassing key and emerging areas of marketing research, and hosted 17 academic sessions with a total of 85 research paper presentations by scholars, researchers, and doctoral students.

InMarc 2025 included keynote addresses by distinguished academicians across the globe, who offered valuable insights into future research directions, ethical considerations, and publishing in high-impact journals. These sessions were particularly beneficial for early-career researchers and doctoral scholars. Another major highlight of the conference was the industry panel discussion, which brought together experienced industry professionals to share practical perspectives on innovation-led growth, sustainable marketing strategies, and responsible decision-making in contemporary markets. The panel reinforced the importance of bridging academic research with real-world practice.

The conference provided a platform for research presentations, encouraging constructive feedback and mentoring interactions. The enthusiastic participation of faculty members, researchers, and students contributed to a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment throughout the event. 

The Gala Dinner and the visit to Pulicat Lake and Sriharikota provided valuable networking opportunities, enabling participants to engage in collegial interactions, foster collaborations, and exchange ideas beyond formal academic sessions

Through its emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and ethical marketing, InMarc 2025 reaffirmed IFMR GSB, Krea University’s commitment to advancing impactful and responsible marketing scholarship. The organising team expressed gratitude to all speakers, reviewers, participants, and collaborators for their valuable contributions and looks forward to building on this momentum in future editions of InMarc.

Wellbeing Week 2025

Ram Kumar News

Wellbeing Week 2025, organised by the Office of Inclusive Learning Support (ILS), at Krea University, marked the World Mental Health Day with a series of events centered on reflection, learning, music, and holistic wellness. Ranging from mental health awareness for support staff, community yoga, and live music, to academic talks, nature-based activities, and inclusive education workshops, the week fostered a campus-wide commitment to holistic wellbeing and belonging.

Wellbeing in Focus

The Wellbeing Week began with Wellbeing in Focus, for the support and security staff at Krea University. The session aimed to raise awareness about mental health and overall wellbeing among these essential members of our campus community.

To ensure the discussion was accessible and engaging, it was conducted in local languages — Tamil and Telugu. Led by Rakhi Rai, Senior Manager, Office of Student Life (OSL), and Aparna Raghavan, In-house Mental Health Counsellor, the session offered valuable insights into the importance of mental health, emotional balance, self-care, and seeking support when needed. They emphasised that mental wellbeing is just as important as physical health and shared simple, practical strategies for managing stress, building positive relationships, and maintaining a healthy mindset both at work and in daily life.

Input by Dhruvi Dhombe, IMBA Cohort of 2023-28

Wellbeing Wall with the Psychology Society

Students came together to share their reflections, doodles, and thoughts on wellbeing, adding their voices to a vibrant collective mural.

Soul Jams

Filled with music and movement, Soul Jams brought energy and rhythm to the entrance of the JSW Academic Block. Part of the Feel It Live series, the session featured artists Shivansh, Goutham, and Marvel, who curated a setlist that blended 1990s Bollywood classics with contemporary songs.

The performance stood out for its participatory spirit, with people singing, clapping, snapping, and keeping the beat. As the evening progressed, the atmosphere became more collective, with performers and listeners moving together in rhythm. Marking World Mental Health Day, the event created space for joy, expression, and ease, setting a vibrant tone for the days ahead.

Input by Trishna Saha, SIAS UG Cohort of 2023-27

Community Yoga

Following the musical start to Wellbeing Week, a calming Community Yoga session was held on Monday, 13 October. Led by Shikha Joshi, a certified Yoga Teacher, Therapist, and Face Yoga Expert, the session reflected her holistic approach to mind–body wellness.

Guest Lecture

Titled “Fear of Social Death: Youth Suicidal Distress and ‘Love Problems’ in Rural India”, this online talk by Dr Varnica Arora, Assistant Professor of Psychology, Stonehill College, was convened by Dr Akanksha Adya, Assistant Professor, Psychology, SIAS.

Dr Arora discussed how love, heartbreak, and social expectations intersect with youth mental health in rural India. Drawing on case studies and fieldwork, she highlighted how emotional distress, stigma, and community pressures shape young lives. These experiences were tied to identity, belonging, and social acceptance within restrictive social structures.

The interactive format encouraged students to share thoughts, ask questions, and reflect on perceptions of mental health in India, especially rural contexts. A particularly impactful segment explored how “love problems” are culturally framed and their intersection with caste as both personal and social struggle.

Input by Pranvi Khare, SIAS Cohort of 2023-27

 

Bounce Back: Mental Wellbeing Through Sports

This interactive session explored how movement, play, and teamwork can support mental wellbeing. Using basketball as a lens for resilience, connection, and stress release, the session fostered a supportive environment where students could recharge, reflect, and take away practical tools for their mental health.



Wellbeing Through the Years with HerCampus Krea and MoCC

The week continued with a reflective and engaging session hosted by HerCampus Krea in collaboration with ILS and MoCC. The event brought students together to discuss topics with the help of prompts related to mental health, balancing academics, and self-care. The interactive session included thought-provoking conversations, followed by fun games like ‘Heads Up’ using the Emotions and Feelings deck, and a round of Pictionary centered on self-care and emotional expression. The session fostered a sense of community while placing student wellbeing at its core.

Input by Sia Bubna, IMBA Cohort 2023-28

Digital Detox: Nature Walk with Emden

The week brought yet another invigorating and immersive experience with Digital Detox: Nature Walk with Emden. Avid nature enthusiasts, bird watchers and photographers amongst students and staff – actively participated in the walk – soaking in the natural beauty of the lush green campus. This experience was further enriched with Emden’s unparalleled knowledge of and passion to explore the flora and fauna in Sri City, even as the participants left with takeaways aplenty.

Inclusive Classrooms

An online workshop for teaching and non-teaching staff focused on understanding neurodivergence, specifically Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). 

Facilitated by Kripa Ramasubramanian, a special needs educator and rehabilitation professional, the session introduced key characteristics of these conditions and offered practical strategies to support neurodivergent students. It aimed to build awareness and equip faculty with inclusive teaching approaches for equitable learning.

Wellbeing Fair 2.0

The Peer Support Volunteers, in collaboration with ILS, hosted the Wellbeing Fair 2.0 on 29 October. The campus came alive with colours, music, and laughter as students gathered to celebrate wellness, creativity, and community. A variety of clubs, societies, and students set up stalls that made the evening truly special. These included Rangasthala (Theatre), Layam (Music), Navyata (Fashion), Aikyatha (Social Outreach), Syahi (Literary Arts), the Cyber Club, and the Economics Society. Each stall brought something unique, from interactive games to creative displays that reflected the energy and spirit of the student community. 

The fair also highlighted the importance of kindness and care beyond campus. A student-led stall sold mental well-being posters to raise funds for the refugees in Palestine and Sudan, while Aikyatha organised a stall with delicious pastries and refreshing sharbats to support donation drives for humanitarian causes. Throughout the evening, students enjoyed a mix of relaxing and joyful activities, including karaoke, mindful journaling, mood boards, wellbeing check-ins, wellness reminders, and fun games. There were also stalls selling charms and jewellery, adding a touch of retail therapy and creativity to the experience.

The atrium was filled with warmth, happiness, and a sense of solidarity as students described the fair as a comforting pause amidst their busy schedules, a moment to unwind, reconnect with friends, and reflect on their well-being.

Input and Images by Trishna Saha, SIAS UG Cohort of 2023-27

Wellbeing Week 2025 unfolded through a range of experiences fostering reflection, inclusion, and a shared commitment to holistic wellness across campus.

Fostering Ecological Awareness: Bird Watching and  Nature Walks

Ram Kumar News

The Nature Walk, Sustainability Committee of IFMR GSB, recently organised a series of immersive initiatives aimed at celebrating biodiversity and promoting environmental stewardship within the campus community.

On 30th and 31st August 2025, the Bird Watching Workshop and Nature Walk, conducted by the committee, provided participants with an engaging introduction to global bird diversity and the species inhabiting the Krea campus. The workshop, led by Professor Debankur Saha, encouraged enriching discussions, fostering a deeper understanding of ecological systems and the importance of conservation. The experience was further enhanced with a guided visit to Sri City Lake, where participants observed birds in their natural habitats, learned to identify different species, and reflected on the delicate balance of ecosystems.

Building on this momentum, a Campus Nature Walk was held on 4th September 2025, also organised by the committee. This walk, again guided by Professor Debankur Saha, allowed participants to explore local biodiversity, capture photographs, and engage in thoughtful conversations about sustainable practices, deepening their awareness of the significance of ecological preservation.

The initiatives received enthusiastic appreciation from the student community, highlighting their eagerness to engage with nature. These experiences reinforced a culture of curiosity, ecological mindfulness, and a shared commitment towards a sustainable future.

– by Siddharth Jha, IFMR-GSB student

Enkainia 2025: IFMR GSB welcomes the brand new IMBA cohort

Ram Kumar News

04 July, 2025, Sri City

IFMR Graduate School of Business (GSB), Krea University welcomed the newest cohort of Integrated MBA (IMBA) students with Enkainia – the orientation programme on 4 July 2025. The IMBA cohort comprises 72 students from 17 states, 1 Union Territory and 34 towns and cities.

Enkainia is a Greek word that signifies renewal and a new beginning, capturing the spirit of this moment. The IMBA Batch of 2025 was warmly welcomed in a vibrant inaugural ceremony, beginning with the traditional lamp-lighting, symbolising the start of a new academic journey.

Professor Suresh Venkataraman, Chairperson, IMBA Programme, delivered an inspiring address, outlining the programme’s vision and encouraging students to lead with curiosity and resilience.

Professor Madhuri Saripalle, MBA Programme Chair, gave the students a glimpse into the IFMR GSB MBA. Nagarani M, Corporate Relations, Career Services Chairperson introduced the career support framework, highlighting opportunities for industry exposure and placement readiness. Students were also introduced to the faculty members.

An engaging session on student life and campus culture gave students an overview of the diverse and inclusive IMBA ecosystem. The Admissions Committee formally welcomed the batch, followed by an introduction to all student committees that shape academic and extracurricular experiences. The ceremony set a positive and promising tone for the transformative journey ahead.

(With inputs from Dhruvi Dome and Sia Bubna, IMBA Cohort of 2023-2028)

IFMR GSB at Krea University welcomes incoming MBA cohort at Prarambh 2025

Ram Kumar News

03 July, 2025, Sri City

IFMR Graduate School of Business (GSB), Krea University welcomed the newest cohort of MBA students with Prarambh – the orientation programme on 3 July 2025. The day was packed with engaging sessions from leadership, faculty, staff, and students.

Prarambh 2025  witnessed the Krea community extending a warm welcome to the incoming cohort, both academically and socially. The incoming class comprises 264 students from 21 states, 3 Union Territories, and 138 towns and cities. These students  went through a holistic admission process which evaluates applicants with tailor made rounds curated for freshers and experienced aspirants.

Speaking to the students at the inaugural ceremony, Chief Guest Joellan Andrew Fernandes, Senior Vice President at BNY Mellon took the audience through his journey of grit and determination both within and beyond his corporate stints. He imparted wisdom gained from the professional spectrum and the lessons he gathered along the way. He emphasised on how learning doesn’t always come from classrooms, sometimes it comes from taking detours.

He emphasised on three rules he wished the students would abide by in the long run; focusing on skills over job descriptions, turning learning into ROI and owning it all. While the institution and organisation would provide the scaffolding and plan, it was ultimately up to the students to choose, decide and pursue relentlessly on the same. He added, “Your background doesn’t define your ceiling, your curiosity does. The gap between you and success is sometimes just one skill.”

In her address, Professor Madhuri Saripalle, Chairperson, MBA Programme, IFMR GSB welcomed the new cohort and added, “MBA is a golden ticket, a gateway to a great job and successful career ahead. But at times the journey is more important than the destination itself. You will become stronger, wiser and ready for the world, where you will make thoughtful choices, not just for your own success but for the well-being of the ones around you. You will lead in a dynamic environment full of uncertainties and a critical part of your journey will be values, ethics and sustainable business practices. Many of your learnings will not come from books but from your experiences.”

Throughout the day there were sessions led by faculty members as well as various function heads at Krea, including Nagarani M, Head – Corporate Relations and Career Services; Amanjit Kaur Ahuja, Director of Education and Student Experience, Col (Retd) Satya Saran, Chief Administrative Officer and more, ushering in the students into their two years of learning with information that would help them steer smoothly through this journey. The Orientation sessions panning Case Study Workshops, Substance Awareness, Disability Awareness, Mental Health, Awareness on Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH), and a glimpse into all the Clubs and Committees at IFMR GSB will continue to be held up until 19 July 2025.