iWorld
Weekend Unwind with content creator Ruchika Lohiya
Mumbai: With another weekend upon us, it is time to unwind with the latest Q&A edition of Indiantelevision.com’s Weekend Unwind—a series of informal chats that delve into the minds of digital content creators through a fun lens, aiming to understand the person behind the creative journey a little better.
In this week’s session, we have Ruchika Lohiya, a 22-year-old creative dynamo from Jodhpur. Ruchika wears many hats – she’s a poet, storyteller, writer, director, and spoken word artist. Her unique style combines storytelling with poetry, making her a source of inspiration for many.
Ruchika stepped into the digital world and won hearts with her special content. She’s also launched a podcast called “Chikka on Roll” on Spotify, where she shares personal stories that connect with her audience. In a world full of quick trends, Ruchika stands out with her authentic creativity. She recently took the stage at Spoken Fest on 4 February and mesmerised the audience with her live poetry performance.
Without further ado here it goes…
Your mantra for life
You live only once, so do it anyway!
A book you are currently reading or plan to read
I’m currently hooked on “Unposted Letters” by Mahatria Rao – a book that’s like a peaceful escape. It’s a breeze to read and perfect for anyone starting their reading journey.
Your fitness mantra
When it comes to staying fit, I keep it simple: don’t overthink. Whether it’s eating or daily activities, a stress-free approach builds a friendly connection with your health. Get to know your body, take it easy, and cut yourself some slack.
Your comfort food
Rajma Chawal is my happy place.
A quote or philosophy that keeps you going when the chips are down
‘Tere kismat da likhta tera toh koi Kho nahi skda ke us do mehar hoye toh tenu oh vo miljaye joh tera ho nhi skda’- It’s a Punjabi saying.
Whatever is written in our fortune will happen anyway, but if there is a blessing from above, things will happen even if it was not written in your destiny!
Your guilty pleasure
The simple joys of Netflix and chill. A guilty pleasure that wraps me in comfort.
The last time you tried something new
Every day is an opportunity for a new experience. The world of content creation ensures that each day brings a fresh challenge and a chance to learn.
A life lesson you learned the hard way
Learning to let go was a tough one. Life’s unpredictability sometimes demands detachment. Walking forward with grace, even when it’s difficult, has been a crucial lesson.
What gets you excited about life?
Work is my fuel, my passion. It infuses my life with fire, water, and everything in between. The excitement and fulfillment it brings make each day worth living to the fullest.
What’s on top of your bucket list?
Well, nothing too specific, but I’d love to blend more of my work with travel. Those trips where you get to explore while working.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Honestly, no advice needed. Looking back, she was amazing—full of grace, strength, and a whole lot of fun. I love her spirit, and well, I still do!
One thing you would most like to change about the world
I wish for a kinder world, where everyone has an equal shot at achieving their dreams. A place where kindness prevails, and dreams aren’t just for a fortunate few.
An activity that keeps you motivated and charged during tough times
it’s honestly my work. Staying busy, creating opportunities—when I’m working, I’m mentally in my happy place.
What lifts your spirits when life gets you down?
Without a doubt, my parents. They are my rock, the unwavering support I’m lucky to have.
Your go-to stress buster
Chatting with friends and just hanging out! Keeping it simple, just chilling, does wonders for the stress levels.
iWorld
Bill Ackman’s Pershing Square makes $64 billion bid to acquire Universal Music Group
Ackman pitches NYSE relisting plan as UMG board weighs unsolicited offer
The hedge fund has proposed a business combination that values UMG at €30.40 per share, representing a hefty 78 per cent premium to its current trading price. The offer includes €9.4 billion in cash alongside stock in a newly formed entity, with shareholders set to receive €5.05 per share in cash and 0.77 shares in the new company for each UMG share they hold.
Under the proposal, UMG would merge with Pershing Square SPARC Holdings Ltd and re-emerge as a Nevada-based entity listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The move is designed to boost investor visibility and potentially secure inclusion in major indices such as the S&P 500.
Pershing Square Capital Management ceo Bill Ackman argued that while UMG’s operational performance remains strong, its market valuation has lagged due to external factors. “UMG’s stock price has languished due to a combination of issues that are unrelated to the performance of its music business,” Ackman said, pointing to concerns ranging from shareholder overhang to delayed US listing plans.
Ackman also flagged what he sees as untapped potential in UMG’s balance sheet and a lack of clear capital allocation strategy. He added that the market has not fully recognised the value of UMG’s €2.7 billion stake in Spotify, alongside gaps in investor communication.
The proposed transaction would also result in the cancellation of around 17 per cent of UMG’s outstanding shares, while maintaining its investment-grade balance sheet. Pershing Square has said it will fully backstop the equity financing, with debt commitments secured at signing. The deal is targeted for completion by the end of the year.
UMG, however, has struck a measured tone. The company confirmed that its board has received the non-binding proposal and will review it with advisers. It reiterated confidence in its current strategy and leadership under Lucian Grainge, signalling no immediate shift in stance.
The proposal comes at a time when global music companies are navigating evolving investor expectations, streaming economics and capital allocation pressures. For Pershing Square, the bet is clear: sharpen the financial story, relist in the US, and let the music play louder in the markets.
Whether UMG’s board is ready to change the tune remains to be seen, but the spotlight on its valuation just got a lot brighter.
