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Inaugural edition of Panja League for corporates held in Mumbai
Mumbai: In a unique display of strength, camaraderie, and competitive spirit, working corporate professionals from various industries stepped out of their offices and into the world of Armwrestling. The event, held at Aurika Hotel, Mumbai, saw participants competing in different categories, showcasing their prowess in Armwrestling.
The event organized by Pro Panja League, co-founded by Bollywood actor duo of Parvin Dabas and Preeti Jhangiani, and with Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty, as a partner, brought together employees from several companies for an evening of excitement and friendly competition. The event aimed to foster team spirit and promote physical fitness among corporate employees, offering a refreshing break from their usual routines.
Sharing his thoughts on this unique event, Parvin Dabas said “We have had great success with the professional athletes. It was time for the corporates to show what they are made of – not just in the boardroom, but on the Panja table. We look forward to hosting such unique events going forward as well.”
Manifest India founder & editor Raahil Chopra who co-organised the event said, “The first edition saw great camaraderie among the participants, who gave it their all to win and had fantastic support from their colleagues.”
Havas India CMO Pritha Das Gupta who also attended, spoke about the event. She said, “Armwrestling is more than just a game—it’s a cherished household tradition, often sparking friendly battles between friends and families. The event was a nostalgic journey that revived countless memories. In a cricket-obsessed nation, it’s heartening to see sports like Panja that are so deeply rooted in our culture being celebrated and played in a league format.”
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.
