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YAAP appoints V. Gokulakrishnan Pillai as creative head
Mumbai: YAAP, a new-age, specialised content and influencer marketing company has appointed V. Gokulakrishnan Pillai as creative head at its offices in Delhi. At YAAP, he will be leading creative businesses across all regions. His vision is to grow the creative team in all locations and lay a robust future forward strategy to nurture creative/content business and innovations at YAAP.
With 15 years of distinguished experience in digital content and advertising, Gokulakrishnan brings an impressive track record of working with over 50 major brands, including renowned names such as Thumbs Up, Honda, Hero Cycles, Voltas, and Apollo Tyres. Throughout his illustrious career, Gokulakrishnan has showcased his expertise in developing and nurturing creative businesses, while spearheading internationally acclaimed campaigns. His exceptional talent and passion for storytelling has earned him a reputation as an expert in crafting compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
Speaking about his appointment, YAAP senior partner Manan Kapur said: “Over the years, our journey at YAAP has been marked by a remarkable transformation, with significant growth and expansion in both our team and the portfolio of esteemed brands we serve. Now, with the exciting addition of Gokulakrishnan to our team, taking the helm of our creative vertical, we firmly believe that he will play a crucial role in driving YAAP’s continued success, bringing fresh creative perspectives and innovative strategies to the forefront.”
Stepping into the role of creative head at YAAP, V. Gokulakrishnan, said: “I am excited to be a part of a company like YAAP that brings together technology, data, and content to deliver high-quality solutions that leave a lasting impact on audiences. My goal here is to explore new frontiers of creativity and deliver innovative, trailblazing work that sets our clients apart. This is a great opportunity for me to work alongside an inspiring leader like Manan, and I look forward to a fulfilling innings here.”
A former tennis professional, motorcycle enthusiast and passionate writer, V. Gokulakrishnan Pillai maintains a blog that covers his extensive motorcycling experiences.
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.
