ITV News
Paytm takes finance talk to streets for Gudi Padwa
Autorickshaw campaign in Maharashtra sparks open money conversations.
MUMBAI: Paytm just turned an autorickshaw into a rolling money therapist because this Gudi Padwa, the best financial advice didn’t come from a bank, it came from the back seat. Paytm rolled out a unique Gudi Padwa initiative across Maharashtra, transforming everyday streets in Mumbai, Pune and Ahilyanagar into open-air spaces for honest conversations about personal finance, money habits and life aspirations. A custom-designed Gudi Padwa-themed autorickshaw invited commuters to step in, chat freely and reflect on financial goals in a light, non-judgmental setting breaking the cultural taboo around discussing money openly.
Participants across age groups shared personal stories: first-time earners building saving habits, families setting new intentions for the year, gig workers managing cash flow and professionals rethinking long-term plans. The campaign gently highlighted how money quietly shapes daily life and future dreams, encouraging reflection without pressure.
To extend the festive spirit, Paytm gifted participants a specially designed ‘Gudi Bag’ inspired by Ugadi traditions. Each bag included a Paytm QR code, blending cultural symbolism with digital convenience and showing how mobile payments have become part of everyday celebrations.
The on-ground experience aimed to foster greater openness and confidence around money matters, positioning Paytm not just as a payments enabler but as a brand that supports informed financial behaviour and positive change.
In a country where money talk is often whispered, Paytm drove it into the open proving that sometimes the richest conversations start with nothing more than a ride, a chat and a shared Gudi.
ITV News
Sonata Software CEO Samir Dhir to exit, Rajsekhar Datta Roy named successor
Samir Dhir steps down after tenure, to stay on as advisor till December 2026
BENGALURU: Sonata Software Limited has announced a leadership transition, appointing Rajsekhar Datta Roy as chief executive officer, effective May 9, 2026, for a three-year term. He will lead the company’s international business as it sharpens its focus on AI-led transformation.
Roy, a long-time company veteran, brings over three decades of experience in scaling technology practices and managing global delivery operations for enterprise clients. He has played a central role in building Sonata’s Microsoft and Dynamics practices into key growth engines, while also driving strategy and large-scale digital transformation programmes.
Over the past year, Roy has been closely involved in steering Sonata’s shift towards becoming an AI-first organisation. He has led initiatives around the company’s responsible-first AI framework and contributed to the development of its Harmoni.AI platform, alongside efforts to improve operational margins through tech-driven efficiencies.
Prior to this elevation, Roy served as chief delivery officer, overseeing global delivery and operations, and was a key member of the executive leadership team shaping the company’s transformation roadmap.
The transition follows the exit of Samir Dhir, who will step down as managing director and CEO at the close of business on May 8, 2026. He has also resigned as executive director but will continue as an advisor to the board until December 31, 2026, ensuring continuity during the transition.
The board acknowledged Dhir’s tenure, noting that under his leadership, Sonata strengthened its position as a strategic partner for clients and advanced into its next phase of growth.
Sonata Software Limited executive vice chairman Srikar Reddy said, “Raj’s promotion to CEO underscores our confidence in his leadership and strong technology vision. His deep understanding of Sonata Software will help us continue building an innovative and trusted organisation.”
Sonata Software Limited chief executive officer Rajsekhar Datta Roy added, “I am honoured to step into this role and lead the company’s international business. Our focus will remain on strengthening core capabilities and accelerating AI-led modernisation journeys for our clients.”
With this leadership change, Sonata Software is signalling continuity with a forward-looking tilt, betting on internal leadership and AI capabilities to power its next phase of global growth.
