Team

A team committed to excellence.

Team

At THE BNK GROUP, we believe in delivering a project keeping in mind the client’s personal philosophy, needs and tastes and transforming these ideas into an end result that displays great quality & seamless execution.

Behzad Kharas

Chairman & Managing Director

Mr. Behzad Kharas, Chairman & Managing Director of The BNK Group, spearheads the organisation from its Mumbai office.

Renowned for his multidisciplinary approach, he has the ability to seamlessly integrate various aspects of a project from designing to execution. Behzad is not only known for his design and execution capability but also for his inspiring entrepreneurial journey which has seen success and failure and his unique capability to overcome any challenge that comes to him, whether in life or on any project.

Over the past 20 years, Behzad has driven The BNK Group to a high point by crafting high-value spaces and delivering designs for over 500 projects. Driven by an unwavering commitment to impactful design, Behzad's mission is to enhance lives through innovative spaces and helping his clients realise their dreams to reality. Guided by unwavering values, he garners the loyalty of repeat clients who trust him and the team to deliver against all odds. Behzad's tireless work ethic and indomitable spirit have solidified The BNK Group's reputation as an esteemed player in the interior and architecture design domain.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Behzad finds solace in his passions for cars and watches. A connoisseur of fine dining, he embraces life's pleasures and cherishes moments spent with his family. He personally believes in being humane, honest & humble.

Neelam Kothari Soni

Co-founder & Managing Director, LINK BNK

Having enjoyed a thriving career as a Bollywood actor, jewellery designer and a passion for creative arts, interior design naturally evolved into an extension of Neelam Kothari Soni's identity.

A fervent enthusiasm for the finer things in life led Neelam Kothari Soni to explore the world of jewellery design alongside her father, offering a wellspring for her creative thirst. This process of transforming gems into exquisite works of art ignited a deeper designer's passion, compelling her to pursue more and that is what led her to the interior design space.

Neelam is known as a woman who successfully juggles between her role as a professional and as a homemaker, mother and daughter. She is also one of the most sought after speakers at national and international events where other women seek inspiration from her for managing so many roles in her life uncomplainingly. Her humility in spite of being a celebrity is what drives her clients to keep coming back for her expertise.

Kshitij Limaye

CO-FOUNDER & MANAGING DIRECTOR, K-BNK

Drawing upon 22 years of architectural knowledge and practice, Kshitij Limaye blends artistry into his expertise and has adeptly overseen a multitude of projects, spearheading a team of gifted designers. Renowned for his astute analytical acumen, he diligently endeavours to comprehend client's aspirations. Sustainability stands as a cornerstone of his craft. While the art of sketching remains an intimate passion, he firmly believes it breathes life into his magnificent projects. As a distinguished consultant who effortlessly integrates global design influences into his projects; he specialises in curating dynamic commercial workspaces infused with innovation. With a wealth of experience, Kshitij's portfolio spans several popular global conglomerates. Beyond his creative and strategic acumen, he excels in client acquisition, management, and crafting sustainable concepts.

His designs unite creativity with sustainability, striving to fulfil diverse aspirations. With efficient design and build solutions, Kshitij offers consultative diligence for project objectives, establishing him as a coveted architect in India.

Beyond his professional endeavours, a love for photography and music propels his journey for excellence. He utilises tech tools to translate his visions into tangible designs.

DR. Ahmad Mecklai

MANAGING DIRECTOR, AAA BNK

Dr. Ahmad is a distinguished physician and seasoned healthcare leader, boasting around 30 years of experience within the industry. A testament to his multifaceted expertise, Dr. Ahmad holds both a medical degree and a postgraduate qualification in healthcare management.

Dr. Ahmad's illustrious career encompasses a remarkable breadth of healthcare operations. He possesses an unparalleled track record in strategic development, hospital management and administration, as well as the meticulous planning, design, and commissioning of healthcare facilities. Notably, his purview extends beyond the realm of physical infrastructure, encompassing the procurement and commissioning of medical equipment and furnishings, the cultivation of a talented human resource pool, and the fostering of robust marketing and business relationships.

Furthermore, Dr. Ahmad champions community engagement, demonstrably prioritising the development of crucial partnerships. His unwavering dedication to improving healthcare access and delivery is evidenced by his distinguished eighteen-year tenure with the Aga Khan Development Network.

DR. AMIT JAGTAP

JOINT MANAGING DIRECTOR, AAA BNK

Dr. Amit Jagtap is a distinguished Neonatologist and Healthpreneur with over two decades of experience in healthcare. With a Diploma in Healthcare Management, he has excelled in clinical governance, developing SOPs, and establishing key committees such as ethics, infection control, and patient care. Dr. Jagtap has made significant contributions to hospital accreditations and has held notable positions at esteemed institutions like Bombay Hospital, Fortis Group, Hinduja Hospitals, and J.J. Group of Hospitals.

Passionate about reimagining hospital environments, Dr. Jagtap focuses on creating eco-friendly, staff-friendly, and patient-friendly facilities. His visionary approach ensures healthcare settings meet high standards of care and efficiency while fostering a supportive atmosphere for both patients and professionals. Dr. Jagtap's commitment to innovation and excellence highlights his significant impact on advancing patient care and healthcare infrastructure.

Anahita Mistry

Executive Director, The BNK Group

Anahita is the longest-serving member of the organization, with a Masters in Management Studies (MMS) specializing in Human Resources. She excels in managing back-end operations, seamlessly integrating expertise in operations and finance to ensure smooth workflows. Outside of work, she is an avid reader and a music enthusiast, thriving on challenges and embracing them with determination and enthusiasm.

Zareer Porbunderwala

Director - CRM & Operations, The BNK Group

Zareer brings over three decades of extensive experience as a business owner and a trailblazer, instrumental in introducing globally renowned brands such as Monster Cable, Marshall Headphones, and Beats by Dr. Dre to India. His expertise spans business operations, relationship management, and establishing partnerships with top consumer electronics brands to successfully launch them in the Indian market since their inception.

Zareer's unparalleled network, spanning the length and breadth of the country, reflects his belief in the mantra, “Your Network Is Your Net Worth.”

A passionate audiophile and superbike enthusiast, Zareer’s keen attention to detail and drive for achieving larger goals make him an invaluable asset to The BNK Group.

Kavita Shetty

CFO - The BNK Group

Kavita is a seasoned chartered accountant with an impressive track record in mergers and acquisitions, distressed asset resolution, and financial analysis. With her independent practice and extensive association with the group, she has established a robust financial framework, steering the group's growth.

HITISHA MEHTA

Director - Design Cell, The BNK Group

Hitisha's career spans almost two decades with her key focus being on design. From corporates to celebrity clients like Shilpa Shetty, she has handled each project and client with great panache. Prior to BNK, Hitisha was the head of interior design for a reputed real estate developer in Mumbai. She's a fitness enthusiast and extremely passionate about cycling having participated in national and international cycling competitions. Under her experience and passion for design, the portfolio at the Group has expanded multifold with a large array of design styles and trends.

HARSHAL PATEL

Director - Projects, The BNK Group

An Interior Design professional topped with an added degree in Construction Project Management from NICMAR and with 25+ years of experience, up his sleeves, Harshal Patel believes in prompt communication-coordination and is meticulous in documentations.

Besides being responsible for development of everything from boutique interiors to mega townships, Harshal's passion for details also makes him an avid macro hobby photographer. His philosophy, " ... for the Heart may conceive, the Head may device, in Vain, if the Hand is Not prompt enough to execute the Design!"

Joginder Rainu

Joint Director - Projects, The BNK Group

Joginder is a veteran when it comes to interior design projects. Having over 2 decades of experience in handling high end luxury residential projects, his eye for finish and detail is or excellence.

His vast experience helps bring in a lot of value addition to the group and also a great learning experience for the team at BNK. A movie buff, Joginder comes across as a knowledgeable experience senior with great humility.

Nikunj Vaja

Joint Director - Design Cell, The BNK Group

With 23 years of experience in interior design, Nikunj Vaja brings a unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking to the BNK Group. Hailing from a family rooted in design and civil engineering, he combines his foundational expertise with a passion for crafting transformative spaces.

A visionary leader, Nikunj is known for his collaborative, results-driven approach that fosters mentorship and open communication within his team. Driven by the ever-evolving possibilities of design, his mission is to place BNK at the forefront of sustainable, transformative interiors. His philosophy of “share and learn” underscores his commitment to collaboration and creating designs that redefine how people live and work.

MAITHILEE TAMHANKAR

Executive Director, K-BNK

Having over two decades experience in client solutions and workspace strategy. With her excellent client network across different industry verticals has done over 300 big workspace design and delivery transactions. Her ability to translate client briefs and guide the different teams to deliver a design solution that gets transformed into a built environment that surpasses her clients expectations, is her biggest suit strength. Coupled with strong administrative skills, she has the ability to lead back end operations to ensure smooth corporate functioning. From team leadership to contract negotiations, contractual obligations and advising clients on workspace strategy, she has a unique blend of skills.

KAUSHIK JOSHI

Director - Design Cell, K-BNK

Having two decades of specialised design experience in workspace concept design and design management. He has worked for some of the biggest multi national companies in the world by designing state of the art facilities that are not only relevant to their time and needs, but also remain relevant for their future needs. Leading a large team of designers over the years his leadership and management skills is second to none especially in a fast paced design environment to meet short deadlines in the workspace industry. Design relevance is a key for his growth and that what's make him not follow trend but follow 'timelessness' when it comes to design. Besides passion for design, he is a sporting cricket enthusiast and player that brings in discipline and commitment into his personal and work life .

Amar Sangare

Director - Projects, K-BNK

Amar is a seasoned professional with almost three decades of experience in design and project management. His work experience encompasses workspace, healthcare and hospitality projects which is a unique combination keeping in mind the new generation of workspace being inspired by hospitality design, where experience matters and not just a space filled with workstations. A technology enthusiast, he believes the integration of tech in space design and build and also has a string understanding of technological parameters required for today's modern office space, especially for MNC clients who have global offices and integrating them via technology. This unique understanding and experience makes him an invaluable team member. From resource allocation, project planning, design development, budgeting, he is involved at every stage of a project to ensure correct accurate delivery of projects.

WEI AZZI

Director - Hospitality &
Operations Head, Design BNK

Wei's career spans over two decades focusing on hospitality projects right from the ADDRESS hotel Dubai creek, Dubai to the iconic DIFC public areas. Her 20 years of presence in Dubai makes her agile to the latest design trends and delivery of projects from design to documentation to final implementation. She has also worked on prestigious health care projects like the Saudi German hospital in Dubai. Having handled clients like Nakheel, Emaar, Marriott, IHG, she is well seasoned to handle projects of any scale. Her previous experience with top international firms such as at STANTEC, STEVE LEUNG DESIGN, brings an international design flavour to the projects at The BNK Group.

Akib Razak

Director - Design Cell, Design BNK

Akib has three decades of experience in hospitality interiors and working with legendary design firms like Catallo design, Wilson Associates, he has seen the hospitality design industry across generations with a keen interest on design. Having built his own practice out of Singapore (Kreat Studio) for over a decade his ability to understand brand guidelines, not only in terms of aesthetics but also technicalities gives him a superior edge while doing conceptual designs. With a focus on functionality his design philosophy is, "Design is all about human behaviour and their interactions" Having designed for MARRIOTT, ACCOR, TAJ, IHG, during his three decade career made him agile to handle any kind of hotel project whether is a midscale budget hotel to a five star hotels city or resort property.

Farhat Jamal

Advisor - Hospitality, Design BNK

Farhat Jamal is a seasoned hospitality professional who has worked with IHCL (Taj Hotels, Resorts and Palaces) India's leading hotel Group for over three decades and for over six years with Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, the leading hospitality group of Southeast Asia headquartered in Hong Kong. He has served on Boards of several subsidiary companies of IHCL namely PIEM Hotels Ltd, Taj Trade and Transport, Northern India Hotels Ltd. He is currently Chairman & Managing Trustee of the Maulana Azad Educational Trust, Mumbai managing eight colleges and two schools and Vice Chairman of Board of Governors for Institute of Hotel Management, Aurangabad.

Farooque Khan

Director - Projects, Design BNK

Having two decades of experience from design management to design delivery, Farooque has had an autodidactic career, learning through his experience. From residences, commercial workspaces , F&B venues, his ability to mould into any project typology makes him versatile. "Micro to Macro" is his mantra and a keen learner of project execution methodologies and an eye for detail make him a sought after person when it comes to design management & project delivery. Having the skill set to handle vendor and contractor nuances helps in ensuring a consistent delivery towards the end project goal.

Kamal Cheema

Principal Consultant, AAA BNK

An alumnus of the Armed Forces Medical College with over 45 years of experience in clinical and administrative roles in Armed Forces hospitals, Aga Khan Health Services (India) and Fortis Hospitals.

KIRTIMAN Sinha

Director - Design Cell, AAA BNK

With over 22 years of experience, he is a dynamic leader, adept at managing complex projects and fostering stakeholder synergy. He has worked on diverse projects, from corporate interiors to healthcare spaces, for clients like Amazon, Citibank, Tata Trust, Breach Candy, and Cancare Trust. His focus is on designing human-centric environments that enhance wellbeing through strategic and impactful solutions.

Anupam Kadam

Sr. Planner - Biomedical, AAA BNK

A motivated professional with experience of 14+ years in the field of hospital-biomedical, hospital projects including operationalization of Radiotherapy, Radiology, Nuclear Medicine, Modular OT, ICU, Lab, Blood Bank, Sports and Rehab centers. He has examined product/equipment workflows to determine if they are worth purchasing. He has also managed multiple projects and concerns simultaneously and has also met all deadlines which are detail-oriented.

Dr. Sugata Pyne

Sr. Planner - Healthcare, AAA BNK

Entrepreneurial and driven healthcare administrator, with over 10 years of experience. A self-motivated and accomplished executive with experience in medical planning, clinical governance, operations, quality, P&L, marketing, vendor management, human resources and developing business processes.

Akriti Khandelwal

Sr. Planner - Healthcare, AAA BNK

Healthcare Management professional with experience of over 10 years in hospital operations, feasibility studies, hospital planning and specialized services MGPS, PTS, CSSD, MOT) planning, designing and commissioning. She leverages this experience and knowledge to effectively improve the efficiency and enhance patient outcomes. She has also conducted research and analysis of healthcare industry trends, regulations, and best practices to inform client recommendations. Collaborated with clients to assess their needs, identify areas for improvement, and develop tailored solutions to meet their goals.