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Tag: #Hyderabad

Amgen to Establish New Science and Innovation Centre in Hyderabad’s Genome Valley

Global biopharmaceutical giant Amgen is doubling down on its commitment to India, announcing plans to open a state-of-the-art Science and Innovation Centre in Hyderabad’s premier Genome Valley. Slated to become operational in 2027, this new facility will mark a significant expansion of Amgen’s global research and development (R&D) network, which currently comprises seven research laboratories worldwide.

Bridging Wet-Lab Science and Digital Innovation

The new Hyderabad centre is designed to be a powerhouse of discovery. It will focus on critical, high-impact areas including:

  • Discovery Chemistry
  • Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK)
  • Precision Medicine
  • Data Science and Digital Technologies

By integrating experimental “wet-lab” science with advanced data analytics and AI-driven tools, the centre aims to dramatically accelerate the discovery and development of life-saving medicines. This facility will seamlessly complement Amgen’s existing Global Capability Centre (GCC) in Hyderabad, creating a powerful synergy between digital innovation and hands-on biological research.

Why Hyderabad? A Thriving Life Sciences Ecosystem

Hyderabad has long been recognized as India’s “Genome Valley,” but this new investment signals a shift from manufacturing and clinical research to high-value, early-stage discovery.

D. Sridhar Babu, Telangana’s Minister for IT and Industries, praised the decision, highlighting the state’s robust ecosystem: “Hyderabad brings together scientific talent, technology, and industry at scale and has built one of the world’s strongest life sciences ecosystems, with deep capabilities in pharmaceuticals and vaccines. The next chapter is about taking that strength into discovery and innovation. Our ambition is to make Hyderabad a place where the next generation of medicines and therapies can be discovered, developed, and taken to the world.”

Leadership Perspectives on Global Integration

For Amgen, this move is about creating a truly interconnected global R&D footprint.

Jay Bradner, Executive Vice President of Research and Development, Artificial Intelligence, and Data at Amgen, noted that the Genome Valley centre will perfectly complement the company’s strong US-based R&D operations. It will expand Amgen’s ability to connect science, data, and technology across its global research system, translating complex insights into tangible new medicines.

Som Chattopadhyay, Senior Vice President of Global Business Solutions and National Executive at Amgen, emphasized that this development firmly establishes India as a critical, strategic pillar in Amgen’s global R&D network.

Echoing this sentiment, Naveen Gullapalli, Managing Director of Amgen India, highlighted the region’s human capital: “Hyderabad’s STEM talent and life sciences ecosystem will support advanced technologies at scale. Our new centre at Genome Valley will help integrate biotechnology and digital innovation to serve more patients globally.”

Looking Ahead

Amgen’s investment in Hyderabad is a resounding vote of confidence in India’s scientific prowess and its potential to drive global healthcare innovation. As the centre gears up for its 2027 launch, it promises to create high-value jobs, foster cutting-edge research, and cement Hyderabad’s status as a premier global destination for biotech discovery and digital health innovation.

The future of medicine is being written in Hyderabad, and Amgen is ready to lead the next chapter.

Acumatica Opens New Global Capability Center in Hyderabad, Gearing Up for Major Hiring Push

Hyderabad’s reputation as a premier global technology hub continues to grow, with cloud-based ERP solutions provider Acumatica officially announcing the launch of its new Global Capability Center (GCC) in the city. The strategic move is designed to accelerate product innovation and serve as the core of the company’s growth engine in India.

Fueling Innovation and Regional Growth

Acumatica, a leading provider of cloud-based Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solutions for small and mid-sized businesses, has established the Hyderabad center to tap into the region’s world-class engineering talent.

The new GCC has kicked off operations with an initial team of 30 employees, but this is just the beginning. The company has announced aggressive plans to ramp up hiring in the coming months. While the initial focus is squarely on engineering and product development, Acumatica intends to expand the center’s scope into additional disciplines over time, supporting its continued regional and global growth.

A Strategic Global Footprint

The Hyderabad GCC is a significant addition to Acumatica’s expanding international footprint. It joins the company’s existing, well-established operations across the United States, Canada, Serbia, and Sri Lanka. By decentralizing its innovation hubs, Acumatica is positioning itself to deliver faster, more robust, and globally informed software solutions to its SMB clientele.

To ensure a seamless and scalable setup, Acumatica established the Hyderabad center in strategic partnership with ANSR and Summit Consulting Services, leveraging their deep expertise in building and managing high-performance global capability centers in India.

Leadership Perspective

Highlighting the strategic importance of this new facility, Miten Mehta, Chief Engineering Officer at Acumatica, noted that the Hyderabad GCC will act as the “core of the company’s growth engine in India.” This underscores the company’s long-term commitment to the region, viewing it not just as an outsourcing destination, but as a vital center for core product innovation and engineering excellence.

Why Hyderabad?

Hyderabad has consistently proven to be a magnet for global tech giants establishing GCCs. With its rich talent pool of software engineers, robust IT infrastructure, and a highly supportive state government ecosystem, the city offers the perfect environment for companies like Acumatica to scale their R&D and engineering operations efficiently.

Looking Ahead

As Acumatica ramps up its hiring and broadens the functional scope of its Hyderabad team, the new GCC is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of cloud ERP technologies. For tech professionals in Hyderabad, this expansion represents an exciting wave of new, high-value career opportunities in a company that is actively redefining business management software for the modern era.

Hyderabad Bonalu 2026: Old City Celebrates with Thousands

The historic lanes of Hyderabad’s Old City transformed into a vibrant tapestry of devotion, color, and tradition this weekend as the annual Bonalu festival commenced on August 9, 2026. Thousands of devotees thronged temples across the region, offering prayers to Goddess Mahankali in a spectacular display of faith that has defined Telangana’s cultural heritage for generations.

A Festival Steeped in Tradition

The two-day celebration, observed during the auspicious month of Ashada Masam, saw the Old City’s neighborhoods—including Lal Darwaza, Uppuguda, Gowlipura, Puranapul, Chatrinaka, Doodh Bowli, Begum Bazaar, and Madannapet—come alive with festive fervor.

From the break of dawn, women adorned in vibrant sarees could be seen balancing beautifully decorated Bonam pots on their heads, making their way to temples to seek the Goddess’s blessings. These earthen vessels, adorned with fragrant neem leaves and topped with flickering lamps, contained the sacred Bonam offering—a mixture of cooked rice, milk, jaggery, and curd prepared with devotion and love.

The Heartbeat of Bonalu: Thottalu and Potharajus

No Bonalu celebration is complete without the electrifying energy of the Thottalu processions and the iconic Potharajus. Young men, their bodies smeared with turmeric and dressed in traditional attire, led vibrant processions through the narrow streets, dancing to the rhythmic beats of drums.

The Potharajus, believed to be the protectors and messengers of the Goddess, embodied the raw spiritual energy of the festival. Children and devotees followed these processions in large numbers, their faces lit with joy as they joined in the collective celebration of faith.

Devotion at Prominent Temples

Long queues of devotees stretched outside the city’s most revered shrines, including the Sri Simhavahini Mahankali Temple at Lal Darwaza and the historic Akkanna Madanna Temple. The air was filled with devotional chants, the ringing of temple bells, and the aroma of traditional offerings.

Political leaders, film personalities, and government officials from across the state visited these temples to offer their prayers, underscoring the festival’s significance not just as a religious event but as a unifying cultural phenomenon that transcends social boundaries.

Ensuring Peace: Police Commissioner Reviews Security

To ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the festival, the Hyderabad City Police made elaborate security arrangements. City Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar personally inspected the security measures at the Sri Simhavahini Mahankali Temple on Sunday.

“Elaborate security measures have been put in place in and around the temple for 48 hours to ensure the smooth conduct of the festival,” Sajjanar stated after reviewing the arrangements. He praised the cooperation of devotees, noting that the celebrations were progressing peacefully.

After his inspection, the Commissioner offered prayers to the Goddess and participated in the special rituals, demonstrating the administration’s respect for the city’s cultural traditions.

Community Spirit and Service

In keeping with the festival’s spirit of community and sharing, food distribution camps were organized at various locations across the Old City. Devotees and visitors alike were served traditional meals, reinforcing the values of generosity and collective celebration that lie at the heart of Bonalu.

Looking Ahead

As the festival continues into its second day with more religious programs and processions, Bonalu 2026 stands as a testament to Hyderabad’s enduring cultural legacy. It is a reminder that even in an increasingly modern world, traditions rooted in faith, community, and devotion continue to thrive, bringing people together in a shared celebration of life and spirituality.

₹102 Crore Cyber Fraud: Hyderabad Retiree Duped of ₹96 Lakh – Full Report

In an alarming trend that highlights the dark side of digital connectivity, Hyderabad’s senior citizens have lost a staggering ₹102.02 crore to cyber fraud over a span of just 19 months. According to recent data, 403 elderly residents have fallen victim to sophisticated online scams, with 60 major cases registered between January 2025 and July 2026 alone.

As cybercriminals deploy increasingly advanced tactics—from AI-generated deepfakes to psychological “digital arrest” schemes—the city’s most vulnerable demographic is bearing the brunt of the financial and emotional devastation.

The Anatomy of the Scam: How Seniors Are Being Targeted

Gone are the days of simple phishing emails. Today’s cyber fraudsters are highly organized, leveraging psychological manipulation and cutting-edge technology to exploit the trust and technological naivety of older adults. The most prevalent methods include:

  • Fake Investment Apps: Promising unrealistic, high-yield returns to lure retirees looking to supplement their pensions.
  • WhatsApp Job Scams: Offering seemingly harmless “part-time” tasks that eventually trap victims in a web of fraudulent transactions.
  • “Digital Arrest” Extortion: Criminals impersonating officials from agencies like the CBI, NIA, TRAI, or local police, threatening victims with false legal action unless they transfer money to “verify” their accounts.

A Heartbreaking Case Study: ₹96 Lakh Vanishes in an Instant

The human cost of these statistics is best illustrated by a recent, devastating case. A 75-year-old retired government employee residing in the upscale Jubilee Hills neighborhood was duped out of ₹96 lakh

newsmeter.in.

The scam began innocuously enough: a WhatsApp message offering a part-time job opportunity. What started as a seemingly legitimate offer quickly escalated into a complex fraud scheme, draining the retiree’s life savings in a matter of days. For many seniors, this money represents decades of hard work, intended for medical emergencies or family support, making the psychological trauma of such losses almost as severe as the financial blow.

The Rise of AI and “Digital Arrest” Tactics

Cybercrime probes in Hyderabad have intensified as police note a sharp rise in AI-assisted scams. Fraudsters are now using deepfake audio and video to mimic the voices of distressed family members or authoritative government officials, making the scams incredibly convincing

www.instagram.com.

In separate incidents, other retirees have lost ₹53 lakh, ₹80 lakh, and even ₹68.3 lakh to similar “digital arrest” and fake official impersonation scams, proving that no one is entirely immune to these highly orchestrated psychological attacks

www.newindianexpress.com,

the420.in,

medicaldialogues.in.

The Police Response and the Path Forward

The Hyderabad City Police and the Cyber Crime Prevention Against Women and Children (CCPWC) wing are actively working to track down these syndicates, many of which operate from overseas locations. Authorities are urging banks to implement stricter transaction verification for elderly account holders and are running awareness campaigns in residential communities and senior citizen clubs.

However, technology alone cannot solve this crisis. The most effective defense is a strong, supportive family network.

A Call to Action for Families

If you have elderly parents or grandparents, it is crucial to have open, non-judgmental conversations with them about online safety.

  • Educate: Explain common scam tactics, emphasizing that legitimate government agencies will never demand money over WhatsApp or phone calls.
  • Monitor: Help them set up transaction alerts and consider adding a trusted family member as a secondary contact for large withdrawals.
  • Reassure: Make sure they know they can come to you without fear of embarrassment if they receive a suspicious message or make a mistake.

Looking Ahead

The ₹102 crore lost by Hyderabad’s seniors is not just a statistic; it is a collective failure to protect our elders in the digital age. As technology evolves, so must our vigilance. By combining robust law enforcement, smarter banking safeguards, and compassionate family oversight, we can build a safer digital environment for those who built the foundations of our society.

Hyderabad’s Elevated Corridor: Progress Comes at a Price for Lothkunta’s Beloved Neighborhood

Hyderabad is undergoing one of its most ambitious transport infrastructure transformations yet. The new Paradise-Shamirpet elevated corridor, a massive 18.1-kilometer project along Rajiv Rahadari (State Highway-1), is reshaping the city’s landscape—and with it, the very soul of neighborhoods like Lothkunta.

The Scale of the Project

Stretching from Paradise Junction to the Outer Ring Road near Shamirpet, this mega-project will feature:

  • 11.6 km of elevated six-lane flyover
  • Service roads for local connectivity
  • A short underground tunnel near Hakimpet Air Force Station
  • Passage through key areas including Trimulgherry, Karkhana, Lothkunta, Alwal, Bolarum, and Thumkunta

While the corridor promises to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity across the northern stretch of the city, its construction has come with a heavy emotional and economic cost for the communities in its path.

A Neighborhood Transformed, One Shop at a Time

In Lothkunta, the impact is visceral. A nearly 500-meter stretch has been cleared for road-widening, leaving behind a trail of demolished businesses that once formed the heartbeat of the community. Restaurants, medical shops, bakeries, general stores, sweet shops, tea stalls, automobile workshops, and furniture stores—many of which had served the neighborhood for over two decades—have either been razed or are awaiting demolition.

Among the most poignant losses is Sri Laxmi Reddy Sweets, a beloved evening haunt famous for its chaat and pani puri. “We have had this shop since 2003,” says owner M.N. Reddy, reflecting on the change. “Now our regular customers make the trip to our other branches in Neredmet and Old Alwal.”

Memories Demolished Alongside Buildings

For residents, the loss extends far beyond brick and mortar. These establishments were repositories of personal histories and community memories.

Sanjana A.G., a private employee from Adarsh Nagar, reminisces about a tiny 6×4 foot DVD shop that was once her gateway to cinema. “It was where we bought and rented Bollywood films on Moser Baer discs and Hollywood movies. As OTT streaming took over, the owner switched to selling mobile phone spare parts. Looking back, most of the English I speak today came from the films I watched from that little shop. It was much more than just a store.”

Avula Harish, a resident of West Venkatapuram, recalls a watch repair shop near the Lakshmi Kala Mandir theatre that has now disappeared. “I bought my first watch from there after my Class X exams in 2007. It wasn’t an expensive brand, but it felt special at the time.”

Beyond Private Businesses: Institutional Impact

The corridor’s footprint doesn’t spare public institutions either. The Secunderabad North Zonal Regional Transport Authority office, the Trimulgherry Traffic Police office, and the Karkhana Traffic Police Station are all slated for demolition and relocation. Several defense establishments within the Secunderabad Cantonment are also affected, alongside newer structures like a three-year-old hospital at the Lothkunta Y-junction that has already been demolished.

The Trader’s Dilemma: Rebuilding Connections

For business owners, the challenge isn’t just finding a new location—it’s recreating the intangible bonds built over years of service.

“It is not just about reopening elsewhere,” explains Kamlesh Kumar, whose wholesale edible oil business is awaiting demolition. “Fortunately, we found another place just inside the lane. We have started telling our regular customers where to find us.”

Looking Ahead: Balancing Progress and Preservation

As Hyderabad marches toward a more connected future, the Paradise-Shamirpet elevated corridor stands as a testament to the city’s infrastructural ambitions. Yet, it also serves as a sobering reminder that progress often demands sacrifice.

While the flyover will undoubtedly ease commutes and boost economic activity in the long run, the human cost—the loss of neighborhood character, the displacement of small businesses, and the erasure of shared memories—cannot be overlooked. As construction continues, the city must find ways to honor these communities even as it transforms them, ensuring that Hyderabad’s growth remains inclusive, compassionate, and mindful of the stories that make a neighborhood truly feel like home.

Microsoft Launches New Cloud Region in Hyderabad to Power India’s AI Economy

In a monumental step for India’s digital infrastructure, Microsoft has officially announced the launch of its India South Central cloud region in Hyderabad, Telangana. This strategic expansion is designed to supercharge the nation’s artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, accelerate enterprise digital transformation, and solidify Microsoft’s position as the leader in hyperscale cloud computing in India.

Unmatched Scale and Local Compliance

With the activation of the Hyderabad facility, Microsoft now operates four cloud regions in India, giving it the largest hyperscale cloud footprint in the country.

The new India South Central region is purpose-built to support demanding AI applications, mission-critical systems, and scalable digital services. It features three Availability Zones, meticulously designed to meet India’s stringent data residency, regulatory, and infrastructure requirements. This ensures that businesses can process data locally with ultra-low latency, enhanced security, and uncompromising reliability.

From AI Experimentation to Durable Business Value

As industries ranging from financial services to manufacturing rapidly integrate AI into their core operations, the need for robust, localized infrastructure has never been more critical.

Puneet Chandok, President of Microsoft India and South Asia, highlighted the strategic value of this launch: “Whether it is a Frontier Firm already running AI at scale or an enterprise taking its first steps, the question we hear most often is: how do we move faster from experimenting with AI to creating durable business value with AI? This new region provides secure infrastructure closer to businesses and data sources, strengthening our commitment to India’s cloud and AI growth.”

The market has already responded with overwhelming enthusiasm. Microsoft reports strong early adoption and interest from major Indian enterprises, including the Adani Group, Bajaj Finserv, HDFC Bank, and PB Pay, all of whom are leveraging the new region to scale their next-generation workloads.

Sustainability Meets Innovation

Microsoft’s commitment to the environment is deeply embedded in the design of the new Hyderabad facility. The data center incorporates advanced, state-of-the-art infrastructure features, including mechanical cooling systems engineered for zero water consumption. This aligns perfectly with Microsoft’s global pledge to be water-positive by 2030, proving that massive technological expansion and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.

Empowering the Future Workforce

Infrastructure is only half the equation; talent is the other. Recognizing the need to build a future-ready workforce, Microsoft has reiterated its ambitious commitment to train 20 million Indians in AI skills by 2030. By coupling world-class cloud infrastructure with massive upskilling initiatives, Microsoft is ensuring that India is not just a consumer of AI, but a global creator and innovator.

Looking Ahead

The launch of the Hyderabad cloud region is more than just a new data center; it is a catalyst for the next phase of India’s technological renaissance. With double-digit Azure growth already recorded over the past two years, this new facility is poised to unlock unprecedented momentum for startups, enterprises, and developers across the subcontinent.

For Hyderabad, already renowned as “Cyberabad,” this investment reinforces its status as a premier global hub for technology, innovation, and the future of AI.

Hyderabad Makes Scientific History: New Material Named After the City of Pearls

Hyderabad has long been celebrated globally for its rich history, iconic biryani, and booming IT sector. Now, the City of Pearls is making headlines for an entirely different reason: cutting-edge materials science. In a massive achievement for Indian scientific research, a patent has officially been granted for a groundbreaking new material that has been named after Hyderabad.

For a city to have a newly discovered or synthesized scientific material bear its name is a rare and immense honor in the global academic community. It places Hyderabad in the same league as cities that have elements or compounds named after them, serving as a testament to the world-class research happening right here in Telangana.

The Significance of the Patent Securing a patent is no small feat in the field of material science. It means that this “Hyderabad” material isn’t just a theoretical concept; it has proven to be novel, non-obvious, and industrially applicable.

While the specific applications of the newly patented material will be rolled out by the researchers, materials named after their place of discovery often possess unique structural, chemical, or electronic properties. Whether it holds the potential to revolutionize energy storage, advance nanotechnology, or create more resilient industrial compounds, the patent ensures that this intellectual property is protected and recognized on a global scale.

A Massive Win for Telangana’s R&D Ecosystem This achievement is not just a win for the specific researchers involved; it is a shining beacon for Telangana’s entire Research & Development ecosystem. Hyderabad is already home to premier scientific institutions, prestigious universities, and cutting-edge research labs.

This patent proves that these institutions are not just participating in global scientific discourse—they are actively leading it. It also provides a massive morale boost to young scientists and students in the region, proving that world-changing discoveries can be made right in their backyard.

Putting India on the Global Materials Map In the global race for technological supremacy, advanced materials are the building blocks of the future—critical for everything from semiconductors and defense to green energy and space exploration. By developing and patenting a novel material, Indian researchers have firmly stamped their authority in this highly competitive domain.

As we await the commercialization and broader industrial application of this newly patented “Hyderabad” material, one thing is certain: the city has added a glittering new “pearl” to its already storied legacy. Here is to more groundbreaking discoveries from the heart of Telangana!

 Official: TIMS Sanathnagar Renamed After Marri Chenna Reddy – New Name Revealed

In a move that beautifully bridges the state’s rich political history with its modern healthcare ambitions, the Telangana government has officially renamed the Telangana Institute of Medical Sciences (TIMS) in Sanathnagar, Hyderabad. The premier medical institution will now be known in honor of the late Marri Chenna Reddy, a revered former Chief Minister and a towering figure in the region’s political landscape.

A Tribute to a Champion of the People

Marri Chenna Reddy served as the Chief Minister of undivided Andhra Pradesh and was widely respected for his grassroots connect, administrative acumen, and unwavering dedication to public welfare. His tenure was marked by a strong focus on agricultural development, social justice, and laying the foundational infrastructure that would benefit generations to come.

By attaching his name to a major medical and educational institution, the government is ensuring that his legacy of public service continues to inspire future leaders, doctors, and healthcare professionals in the state.

A New Chapter for TIMS Sanathnagar

Located in the heart of Hyderabad, the Telangana Institute of Medical Sciences (TIMS) has rapidly emerged as a crucial hub for medical education, research, and patient care. The institute is designed to provide world-class healthcare facilities while training the next generation of medical talent to tackle the region’s health challenges.

Bestowing the name of Marri Chenna Reddy upon this institute elevates its stature, infusing the campus with a sense of historical pride and responsibility. It serves as a daily reminder to students and staff alike of the high standards of integrity and service that the former leader embodied.

Blending Heritage with Modern Healthcare Vision

This renaming is part of a broader, thoughtful initiative by the Telangana government to commemorate the architects of the state’s development while simultaneously upgrading its civic infrastructure.

Rather than just building new facilities, the administration is actively weaving the state’s historical narrative into its modern institutions. This approach not only preserves the memory of pivotal leaders but also fosters a deeper sense of identity and pride among the citizens of Telangana.

Looking Ahead

As the Marri Chenna Reddy Institute of Medical Sciences in Sanathnagar moves forward, it carries with it the weight of a remarkable legacy and the promise of a healthier future. With state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated faculty, and a name that commands respect, the institute is perfectly positioned to become a beacon of medical excellence in South India.

The renaming is more than just a change of signboards; it is a commitment to carrying forward the vision of a leader who always put the people first.

10-Year-Old Bharatanatyam Dancer Ananya Mesmerizes Hyderabad with ‘Navaratnam’ Performance

Hyderabad: A remarkable evening celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage unfolded at Ravindra Bharati, where 10-year-old Bharatanatyam prodigy S.P. Ananya, based in Germany, captivated audiences with her Telangana debut performance, “Navaratnam.”

The unique Bharatanatyam production explored the spiritual significance, symbolism, and mythology of the nine sacred gemstones (Navaratnas) and their association with the Navagrahas, beautifully blending classical dance, storytelling, music, and Indian tradition into an unforgettable cultural experience.

A disciple of Guru Veenashri Vijaykumar Alange, Ananya showcased exceptional grace, expressive abhinaya, rhythmic footwork, and remarkable stage presence far beyond her years. Through each performance, she narrated the origin, colors, energies, and cultural importance of gemstones including Ruby, Pearl, Emerald, Yellow Sapphire (Topaz), Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Gomedhika, Vaidurya (Cat’s Eye), and Vidruma (Coral), highlighting their spiritual and astrological significance.

Adding to the evening’s grandeur was a special violin recital titled “Carnatic Re-imagined” by Ananya’s father, S.P. Subrahmanyam. The performance featured a soulful Ganapati Prarthana in Hamsadhwani, an improvisational presentation in Arabhi, and concluded with a moving tribute to legendary violin maestro Dr. L. Subramaniam, inspired by the iconic Surabhi television theme.

The family has a distant connection to legendary playback singer S.P. Balasubrahmanyam, while Ananya’s brother, S.P. Shankar, has also earned recognition as a two-time Young Scientist Award recipient, reflecting the family’s dedication to excellence in both arts and academics.

Speaking about the production, Ananya’s mother Divya Mangala, herself a former classical dancer, said the presentation was designed to inspire younger generations and global audiences to appreciate India’s timeless cultural traditions. By combining mythology, astrology, Carnatic music, and Bharatanatyam, Navaratnam offers a meaningful journey into India’s spiritual and artistic heritage.

Having travelled from Germany specifically for this performance, Ananya’s Telangana debut highlights the growing enthusiasm among the Indian diaspora to preserve, learn, and showcase India’s classical arts on international platforms.

The event concluded with heartfelt appreciation from the organizers, who thanked art lovers, students, families, and cultural organizations for supporting an evening dedicated to celebrating India’s classical dance, music, and enduring cultural legacy.

Hyderabad’s Rajasekhar Tummala Wins International Recognition for Showcasing India’s Medicinal Plant Heritage Through Stamps

Hyderabad: Hyderabad-based conservation ecologist and philatelist Rajasekhar Tummala has brought global recognition to India by earning a Silver-Bronze Medal at the prestigious Boston 2026 World Philatelic Exhibition for his book, Medicinal Plants on Indian Stamps.

A second-generation philatelist, Tummala inherited his love for stamp collecting from his late father, Dr. Surya Prakash Tummala. What began as a childhood hobby has evolved into an internationally acclaimed effort to preserve and promote India’s rich medicinal plant heritage through the fascinating world of philately.

His award-winning publication documents the medicinal significance, historical importance, and conservation value of plants featured on Indian postage stamps from the pre-Independence era to the present day. The book highlights how postage stamps can serve as powerful educational tools, creating awareness about biodiversity and the importance of protecting native medicinal plant species.

The Boston 2026 World Philatelic Exhibition, held under the patronage of the Fédération Internationale de Philatélie (FIP), is one of the world’s most prestigious philatelic events, conducted only once every decade. Entries are evaluated based on originality, research, documentation, and presentation, making Tummala’s international recognition a remarkable achievement for Hyderabad and India.

With academic qualifications in Ecology, Environmental Sciences, Medicinal Botany, Environmental Management, Business Development, and Intellectual Property Rights, Tummala has dedicated his career to biodiversity conservation, ecological restoration, and medicinal plant research. He has contributed to several national and international conservation initiatives and has worked extensively on threatened plant species.

His research explores not only modern Indian stamps but also rare issues from the French and Portuguese colonial periods, revealing the historical significance of medicinal plants such as Kutaja, Lotus, and several indigenous species represented through philately.

The book also carries a strong conservation message by highlighting endangered medicinal plants including Guggul (Commiphora wightii), Red Sanders, Sarpagandha (Rauvolfia serpentina), Brahma Kamal, and Rhododendron, emphasizing the urgent need to protect India’s native biodiversity.

Looking ahead, Tummala plans to document nearly 140 medicinal plants featured on postage stamps, explaining their pharmacological importance, traditional uses, and conservation status. He believes native species such as Neem, Jamun, Indian Laburnum (Cassia fistula), Wild Mango, and Sacred Ashoka should be widely planted to support birds, pollinators, and urban biodiversity.

India Post has consistently celebrated the country’s botanical heritage through commemorative stamp series, including the 2025 Traditional Medicine Set featuring Ashwagandha, Shatavari, Mandukparni, Pippali, and Guduchi, along with earlier releases honoring Tulsi, Brahmi, Amla, and Guggulu.

Rajasekhar Tummala’s remarkable achievement demonstrates how a lifelong passion for philately can contribute meaningfully to environmental education, biodiversity conservation, and the preservation of India’s traditional medicinal knowledge, inspiring future generations to appreciate both nature and history.