In its annual scholarship felicitation ceremony, RIZE 2025, Kotak Education Foundation (KEF), the CSR implementing arm of Kotak Mahindra Group, proudly and joyfully recognised over 1,400 new scholars from economically disadvantaged sections throughout the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and supported their higher education. The occasion demonstrated KEF’s dedication to supporting its recipients’ entire growth and academic achievement.

Renowned Indian para-athlete and 2025 World Javelin Champion Rinku Hooda graced the ceremony. He is one of India’s most accomplished and inspirational athletes, having placed on several international podiums, including silver at the World Para Athletics Championships 2023 (Paris) and 2024 (Japan), and winning significant medals in the Asian Para Games. He directly interacted with the scholars and gave them heartfelt words of inspiration and support, which greatly inspired them.

A heartfelt speech by alumnus and Chief Guest Vishal Nevge, Assistant Commissioner of State Tax, GST Department, Government of Maharashtra, was one of the event’s many noteworthy highlights. He gave the kids words of encouragement and offered his sincere gratitude for the Kotak Junior Scholarship Program.

The scholars were also inspired by Devang Gheewalla, Group Chief Financial Officer of Kotak Mahindra Bank, who emphasised the importance of the scholarship programme and its outstanding expansion over the previous few years.

In his motivational speech, Paul Parambi, Trustee of the Kotak Education Foundation, exhorted the incoming class of scholars to follow their dreams with tenacity and fortitude.

“These 1,400+ Kotak Scholars are a testament to how education can shape futures,” stated Arati Kaulgud, Director of the Scholarship Program, Kotak Education Foundation. In addition to assisting students with their academic endeavours, these scholarships will provide them access to a wealth of opportunities for development, growth, and mentoring that will enable them to reach their full potential.

The scholars’ outstanding performances at the ceremony demonstrated their abilities outside of the classroom. In addition to congratulating the achievements, each scholar received their scholarship diploma, signalling the start of their journey into higher education in a variety of professions. As the scholars were given their certificates amid thunderous acclaim, the air was charged with pride and achievement.

Prominent members of the Kotak Education Foundation’s leadership team, such as Ganesh Raja, CEO; Jayasree Ramesh, COO, Education; and Kavita Shanghvi, Director, Education, attended the ceremony as well.

The Kotak Education Foundation’s steadfast dedication to empowering the future generation via education and making sure they realise their full potential is demonstrated via RIZE 2025, a celebration of talent, tenacity, and promise.