Baiju Gopalan receives the award from V. P. Nandakumar, Chairman & Managing Director, Manappuram Finance Ltd., and Dr. Ajit Ravi, Founder & Chairman, Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd.
The Manappuram Unique Times Multibillionaire Business Achiever (MBA) Award and the Women Excellence Award celebrated outstanding achievements in business and media at a grand ceremony held on August 9, 2026, at Le Méridien Kochi. The awards honoured individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, professional excellence, innovation, and commitment to society. The honours were presented by Shri V. P. Nandakumar, Chairman and Managing Director of Manappuram Finance Ltd., and Dr. Ajit Ravi, Founder & Chairman of Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd.
Baiju Gopalan, Managing Director of Sree Gokulam Group of Companies, was honoured with the 22nd edition of the Manappuram Unique Times Multibillionaire Business Achiever (MBA) Award for his significant contributions to the business sector. Under his leadership, Sree Gokulam Group has strengthened its presence across finance, automobiles, hospitality, healthcare, education, real estate, media, and entertainment. His focus on innovation and expansion has contributed to the group’s growth and reputation as one of India’s prominent business conglomerates.
RJ Neena (left), Sujaya Parvathy (centre), and Arya P. Nair (right) receive the award from V. P. Nandakumar, Chairman & Managing Director, Manappuram Finance Ltd., and Dr. Ajit Ravi, Founder & Chairman, Pegasus Global Pvt. Ltd.
Beyond business, Baiju Gopalan has also been actively involved in initiatives focused on education, healthcare, women empowerment, environmental sustainability, disaster relief, and community development. With the MBA honour, he joins the Federal International Chamber Forum (FICF), an exclusive global forum of accomplished business leaders with assets exceeding ₹1,000 crore and a strong commitment to social responsibility. The forum is also distinguished for not charging any membership fee.
The ceremony also highlighted the achievements of women who have made notable contributions to the media industry through the Manappuram Unique Times Women Excellence Award. RJ Neena, RJ at Radio Mango 91.9, received the Excellence in Radio Broadcasting Award for her contribution to radio and her enduring connection with listeners. Sujaya Parvathy, Chief Editor of Big TV Malayalam, was honoured with the Excellence in Editorial Leadership Award for her achievements and leadership in journalism. Arya P. Nair, Senior Sub-Editor and News Anchor at Mathrubhumi News, received the Outstanding News Anchor Award for her excellence in news presentation and commitment to responsible journalism.
The recognition reflected the diverse spirit of the awards, celebrating excellence across business and media. The awards once again provided a platform to honour individuals whose dedication, perseverance, leadership, and professional achievements continue to create a positive impact on society.