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Palash Srivastava from MP secures victory in PokerBaazi IMPS 2023 wins over one lakh
Mumbai: Hailing from Raisen, Madhya Pradesh, Palash Srivastava has achieved a remarkable feat by securing a gold medal and a whopping reward of Rs. 1 Lakh in PokerBaazi’s reputed Indian Micro Poker Series (IMPS) 2023 tournament. Displaying exceptional skill and strategic acumen, Palash ventured into Poker by getting inspiration from the iconic movie “James Bond: Casino Royale”.
Palash is a seasoned poker player who has been diligently working towards sharpening his skills and expertise. An MBA (Masters in Business Administration) graduate, Palash was drawn to the intricate mathematics involved in the game and defines it as a game of calculated decisions, strategic thinking, and unwavering patience. Poker has made him better at taking real-life decisions and has instilled valuable life lessons, resulting in better decision-making and a calmer mindset in various aspects of life.
Palash Srivastava stated, “Winning the IMPS tournament has been an exhilarating experience for me. Poker is a game of skill, precision, and patience, and it has undoubtedly contributed to my personal growth and maintain a calm attitude even in challenging situations. I hope people invest more time in reading and learning about the sport. I am certain that owing to the growing interest and constant information exchange, Poker will continue to thrive as a mind sport and gain further recognition in the future.”
Baazi Games CEO and co-founder Navkiran Singh shared, “Palash’s inspiring journey establishes the inroads Poker has made beyond metro cities. power of carving a successful career in Poker. As we celebrate his victory, I strongly believe that in the coming years, more and more players with unwavering determination and perseverance will achieve remarkable feats and establish flourishing careers in Poker. Such accomplishments further reinforce the significance of strategic thinking and decision-making, essential qualities that contribute to conquering the ultimate challenges in the world of poker”.
Palash’s success story has inspired many, including a close friend who has witnessed his progression and dedication first-hand. Through continuous learning, reading books, and immersing himself in the game, Palash’s journey stands as a testament to the rewards that poker can offer to those committed to mastering its intricacies.
Palash also appeals to the government to reconsider its stance on GST implementation for online gaming. He ardently believes that Poker is a game of skill and not a chance. The implementation of 28 per cent GST will have an adverse effect on the growing community actively pursuing a career in online gaming.
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
