Latest news with #ProGovindaLeague2025
New Indian Express
2 days ago
- Politics
- New Indian Express
Shiv Sena minister lands in trouble over Rapido sponsorship after crackdown on firm
MUMBAI: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena Minister Pratap Sarnaik has found himself embroiled in controversy over allegations of misusing his ministerial position to pressure Rapido, a bike taxi service provider, into sponsoring his son's Pro Govinda League 2025 event. According to the allegations, in July, Sarnaik booked a Rapido bike under a pseudonym from Mantralaya. When the bike arrived, he questioned the rider about operating without state government permission. He then reportedly called Rapido's manager, threatening to file an FIR and take strict action. However, instead of pursuing legal measures, Sarnaik allegedly secured sponsorship from Rapido for the Pro Govinda event, organized by his son, Purvesh Sarnaik. Maharashtra Congress Legislative Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar accused the minister of staging a crackdown on Rapido only to later strike a deal for sponsorship. Wadettiwar claimed that while the state faces financial constraints for critical projects, Sarnaik has demonstrated how to extort funds for personal events. In response, Sarnaik denied any wrongdoing, stating that connecting the Pro Govinda event with politics was "wrong." He claimed he had taken action against Rapido on July 2, while the sponsorship was finalized on May 26—before the alleged confrontation. "I fearlessly acted against the company even though it was sponsoring my son's event. Instead of appreciating this, some are opposing it unnecessarily," he said. His son, Purvesh, also denied any link between his father's actions and the sponsorship, asserting that the deal was secured a month prior. NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar criticized Sarnaik for misusing his ministerial authority, calling it a breach of his oath. "CM Fadnavis must investigate this seriously and take appropriate action," Pawar said. The controversy has sparked a political row, with opposition leaders demanded Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis take action against Sarnaik for exploiting his authority for personal gain.
Indian Express
2 days ago
- Business
- Indian Express
A month after Maharashtra Minister Pratap Sarnaik's action against Rapido, company features as sponsor for son's commercial event
In a turn of events that is being questioned by the Opposition, a month after Maharashtra's Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik caught an illegal bike-taxi driver after booking a ride on Rapido app, the company has now emerged as the main sponsor for Pro Govinda League 2025, which is organised by his son. In July, Sarnaik booked a Rapido Bike using an alias to show that the bike service was being offered in the city, despite being declared illegal due to a lack of proper regulations. After catching the bike driver, he announced action against the company. मंत्रालय येथूनचं ट्रॅप ऑपरेशन – अनधिकृत रॅपिडो बाईक टॅक्सी सेवांवर थेट कारवाई…#PratapSarnaik #TransportMinister#MaharashtraTransport #ActionAgainstIllegalBikeTaxi@rapidobikeapp — Pratap Baburao Sarnaik (@PratapSarnaik) July 2, 2025 In a statement, the minister said it was 'wrong to connect Pro-Govinda sports with politics'. 'I had taken action against the company on July 2, whereas the sponsorship was given on May 26. I fearlessly took action against the company that was sponsoring the pro-Govinda event organised by my son, Purvesh Sarnaik. Instead of praising the action, some people are opposing it for the sake of it,' he said Sarnaik's son Purvesh also denied any link with his father's actions, and claimed that the sponsorship was confirmed a month before the action against Rapido Transportation. 'We had appointed a professional agency to look after the issues of sponsorship and publicity. They brought Rapido on board in the month of May. The episode of the minister taking action against Rapido happened in July,' said Purvesh. He said Rapido fitted as a sponsor because it would provide employment to the Govindas who will take part in the competition. 'There will be 3,200 Govindas who will participate in it. If even 10 per cent of them got employment, then my aim of organising the event will be fulfilled,' he said. Nationalist Congress Party (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar slammed Sarnaik, and called it 'blackmail'. 'The minister caught the Rapido Bike. He got the publicity through the media. And then he rapidly changed the position and brokered a sponsorship. It just proves that this government works for itself and not for the public. I want to ask whether this is not a misuse of the ministerial post,' said Pawar. Rapido did not respond to queries. Pro-Govinda League is dedicated to the sport of human pyramid formation, traditionally known as Dahi Handi. Govinda teams form human pyramids to break a pot filled with curd, celebrating Lord Krishna's birthday. It has been marked as an adventure sport in Maharashtra. West Indies cricket player Chris Gayle is the brand ambassador of the league, which started on August 7, and will continue until August 9 in Worli. The Pro Govinda league is in its third year.
News18
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Pro Govinda League set to kick off in Mumbai on August 7
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 7 (ANI): Mumbai's much-loved dahi handi tradition is gearing up for a grand sporting spectacle as the Pro Govinda League (PGL) 2025 returns on August 7-9 at Dome SVP Stadium, Worli, according to a release from PGL. Adding to the excitement, Jashan Bhumkar, Speciality Chemicals and Pharma Entrepreneur and acclaimed Hindustani classical musician, has officially entered the league as Co-Owner of Alibaug Knights, alongside hospitality leader Ranjeet Bindra, founder of the iconic Bastian group of about his association with the league, Jashan Bhumkar said, 'Pro Govinda League is not just a sport – it's a celebration of courage, teamwork, and the incredible cultural heartbeat of Maharashtra. As someone deeply connected to Indian traditions and music, I felt this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to support a grassroots sport that truly belongs to the people."Bhumkar expressed strong confidence in his team, Alibaug Knights, who will represent the spirited Bal Utsahi Pathak from Jogeshwari, 'From the first time I met this team, I saw something special – an unbreakable bond, a fire to rise above every challenge. These are not just athletes; they're fighters who inspire everyone around them. My belief in them is absolute, and I know they'll make their mark this season."The tournament will feature 16 top-tier Govinda pathaks battling it out for glory, with live music performances by Padmashri Kailash Kher (Day 1) and Salim-Sulaiman (Finals) adding to the festival atmosphere.'This league beautifully merges tradition, adrenaline, and entertainment," Bhumkar added. 'Our vision is to elevate Govinda into a recognized, professionally celebrated sport while staying rooted in its cultural origins. I'm honored to be part of that journey."The Pro Govinda League 2025 promises three days of nail-biting competition, community celebration, and cultural pride. Fans can watch the action live on Zee Network or witness the energy firsthand at Dome SVP Stadium, Worli, Mumbai. (ANI)
Business Standard
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Standard
Aspect Sports Acquires Varanasi Mahadev Ascenders for Pro Govinda League 2025
NewsVoir Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], August 5: Aspect Sports a vertical under Aspect Global Ventures is proud to announce the acquisition of a team for the highly anticipated Pro Govinda League 2025. The team, formerly known as Om Brahmand Sai Govinda Pathak (Malad West), has now been rebranded as the Varanasi Mahadev Ascenders following a Rs. 74 lakh acquisition. Owned by Aksha Kamboj, Executive Chairperson of Aspect Global Ventures, the Varanasi Mahadev Ascenders are set to bring their formidable spirit and legacy to the national spotlight. The team's name pays homage to the spiritual strength and timeless heritage of Varanasi, while "Ascenders" reflects the upward journey of Govinda's as they conquer human pyramids - both symbolic and literal. Speaking on the acquisition, Mrs. Aksha Kamboj said, "We are immensely proud to participate in the Pro Govinda League 2025 with a team that embodies courage, discipline, and deep-rooted cultural values. Varanasi Mahadev Ascenders represent more than a team; they represent the spirit of India's youth, rising through tradition and teamwork. Aspect Sports is committed to nurturing talent and preserving our cultural identity through platforms like this." The team auction took place on July 5 at Sofitel BKC, and the grand tournament will be held from August 7 to 9 at the iconic NSCI Dome in Worli, Mumbai. This season, the Pro Govinda League enters its third edition with 16 powerhouse teams from across India, including Bangalore Blazers, Hyderabad Dynamos, Jaipur Kings, and Mumbai Falcons Yoddhas. Recognized officially by the Maharashtra Government and conceptualized by Shri Pratap Sarnaik, Chairman of the Pro Govinda League and Maharashtra's Transport Minister, the league is revolutionizing the sport of dahi handi by transforming a centuries-old tradition into a professional, televised sporting event backed by safety, training, and sponsorships. This season offers a total prize pool of Rs. 1.5 crore, including Rs. 75 lakh for the champions, as well as participation incentives of Rs. 3 lakh per team, cementing the League's status as a serious competitive platform. As the countdown to the tournament begins, Varanasi Mahadev Ascenders stand ready to scale new heights, both on the human pyramid and in the hearts of fans across the country. Aspect Sports is the sports vertical of Aspect Global Ventures, launched to transform the Indian sports ecosystem by fostering grassroots talent and promoting fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. With a strong focus on youth development, community engagement, and holistic growth, Aspect Sports aims to create inclusive opportunities for individuals to learn, grow, and thrive through sports. From local talent to professional platforms, Aspect Sports is committed to building a vibrant, empowered sporting culture across the country. Website: Instagram: Aspect embodies a perfect blend of time-honoured values and forward-thinking innovation, with ventures spanning across diverse sectors. We are a global conglomerate with a footprint that extends to the USA, UK, Singapore, Japan, Australia, Dubai, Mauritius, Malaysia and Indonesia establishing a dynamic presence in pivotal markets around the world. We are a diversified group of companies operating across various sectors, meeting the evolving demands of our nation. From bullion to realty, infrastructure to hospitality, logistics to sports--we are everywhere. We touch every corner of the world, championing a wide range of projects. We aspire to bring opportunities like never before in areas of employment, technology, infrastructure and sustainability with a commitment towards excellence to transcend lives for a better tomorrow. Our Vision: To be a global powerhouse where tradition and innovation unite, building a sustainable, impactful and visionary future for all stakeholders. Our Mission: To embrace our roots while propelling forward, delivering value through ethical, sustainable and pioneering solutions, and ensuring Aspect remains a symbol of trust, quality and progress for generations to come. Website:
Fashion Value Chain
4 days ago
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Aspect Sports Acquires Varanasi Mahadev Ascenders for Pro Govinda League 2025
Aspect Sports a vertical under Aspect Global Ventures is proud to announce the acquisition of a team for the highly anticipated Pro Govinda League 2025. The team, formerly known as Om Brahmand Sai Govinda Pathak (Malad West), has now been rebranded as the Varanasi Mahadev Ascenders following a Rs. 74 lakh acquisition. Owned by Mrs. Aksha Kamboj, Executive Chairperson of Aspect Global Ventures, the Varanasi Mahadev Ascenders are set to bring their formidable spirit and legacy to the national spotlight. The team's name pays homage to the spiritual strength and timeless heritage of Varanasi, while 'Ascenders' reflects the upward journey of Govinda's as they conquer human pyramids – both symbolic and literal. Pro Govinda League – Varanasi Mahadev Ascenders Team Speaking on the acquisition, Mrs. Aksha Kamboj said, 'We are immensely proud to participate in the Pro Govinda League 2025 with a team that embodies courage, discipline, and deep-rooted cultural values. Varanasi Mahadev Ascenders represent more than a team; they represent the spirit of India's youth, rising through tradition and teamwork. Aspect Sports is committed to nurturing talent and preserving our cultural identity through platforms like this.' The team auction took place on July 5 at Sofitel BKC, and the grand tournament will be held from August 7 to 9 at the iconic NSCI Dome in Worli, Mumbai. This season, the Pro Govinda League enters its third edition with 16 powerhouse teams from across India, including Bangalore Blazers, Hyderabad Dynamos, Jaipur Kings, and Mumbai Falcons Yoddhas. Recognized officially by the Maharashtra Government and conceptualized by Shri Pratap Sarnaik, Chairman of the Pro Govinda League and Maharashtra's Transport Minister, the league is revolutionizing the sport of dahi handi by transforming a centuries-old tradition into a professional, televised sporting event backed by safety, training, and sponsorships. Mrs. Aksha Kamboj, Executive Chairperson of Aspect Global Ventures This season offers a total prize pool of Rs. 1.5 crore, including Rs. 75 lakh for the champions, as well as participation incentives of Rs. 3 lakh per team, cementing the League's status as a serious competitive platform. As the countdown to the tournament begins, Varanasi Mahadev Ascenders stand ready to scale new heights, both on the human pyramid and in the hearts of fans across the country. About Aspect Sports Aspect Sports is the sports vertical of Aspect Global Ventures, launched to transform the Indian sports ecosystem by fostering grassroots talent and promoting fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being. With a strong focus on youth development, community engagement, and holistic growth, Aspect Sports aims to create inclusive opportunities for individuals to learn, grow, and thrive through sports. From local talent to professional platforms, Aspect Sports is committed to building a vibrant, empowered sporting culture across the country. Website: Instagram: About Aspect Global Ventures Aspect embodies a perfect blend of time-honoured values and forward-thinking innovation, with ventures spanning across diverse sectors. We are a global conglomerate with a footprint that extends to the USA, UK, Singapore, Japan, Australia, Dubai, Mauritius, Malaysia and Indonesia establishing a dynamic presence in pivotal markets around the world. We are a diversified group of companies operating across various sectors, meeting the evolving demands of our nation. From bullion to realty, infrastructure to hospitality, logistics to sports-we are everywhere. We touch every corner of the world, championing a wide range of projects. We aspire to bring opportunities like never before in areas of employment, technology, infrastructure and sustainability with a commitment towards excellence to transcend lives for a better tomorrow. Our Vision: To be a global powerhouse where tradition and innovation unite, building a sustainable, impactful and visionary future for all stakeholders. Our Mission: To embrace our roots while propelling forward, delivering value through ethical, sustainable and pioneering solutions, and ensuring Aspect remains a symbol of trust, quality and progress for generations to come. Website: Instagram:
