Inside Absolute Security’s Second CISO Retreat in Lonavala: Where the Hills Framed a New Conversation on Resilience
Lonavala is known for its hills and historic forts built for resilience in another era but for a few days this April, it became the backdrop for a new kind of resilience: Absolute Security’s second CISO Retreat in India. Surrounded by Lonavala’s scenic beauty, Della Resorts set the stage for a more focused and meaningful exchange.
The second edition of Absolute Security’s CISO Retreat turned the familiar setting into a space for deeper, more purposeful dialogue. With a strong mix of industry leaders in the room, the retreat focused on turning technical insight into practical direction. The blend of interactive learning and open dialogue ensured that attendees walked away not just informed but better prepared to navigate the evolving demands of cyber resilience.
“Bringing together such a high-calibre group of leaders in India and listening to their shared experiences reinforced just how much cyber resilience has evolved beyond just an IT/Security responsibility.” ~Nikhil Korgaonkar, Country Manager, India
A Space Built for Real Conversations
In a landscape where cyber threats evolve faster than business cycles, creating space for focused, outcome driven dialogue is rare and critical. Throughout the retreat, discussions moved beyond technical depth into what matters most at the leadership level: continuity, risk ownership, and business impact.
Setting the context: AI and the Downtime Era
The retreat opened with a forward looking perspective on Next-Gen AI for Business Resilience, followed by a deeper examination of The Downtime Era. There was a clear highlight of the shift from prevention led security to resilience led business continuity. The message was simple: downtime is no longer just an IT issue, but it is a business risk with measurable impact.
From cyber risk to business value
A defining moment came with “Who Leads Who from Cyber Risk to Business Value”, reframing cybersecurity as a strategic lever rather than a support function. This was reinforced through a candid boardroom style discussion between CISOs and financial leaders, where conversations centered on accountability, investment priorities, and aligning cyber risk with business outcomes.
Making resilience tangible
The live demonstration of rehydrating infected devices in minutes shifted the conversation from concept to capability. It provided a clear view into what operational resilience looks like in practice—where recovery speed, visibility, and control directly influence business continuity.
Testing assumptions through experience
The Interactive Resilient CISO Workshop created a space for leaders to step into real-world scenarios challenging existing strategies, uncovering gaps, and exploring how organizations can respond under pressure. It wasn’t about theory; it was about readiness.
Connecting AI, cloud, and enterprise risk
Sessions on AI in cybersecurity, resilient cloud operations, and securing the network brought together a broader perspective linking emerging technologies with governance, compliance, and enterprise-wide risk management. The focus remained consistent: how to enable innovation without compromising resilience.
When the Lights Came On, the Conversations Deepened
While the days were centered on strategy and resilience, the evenings brought a different kind of energy.
At Della Resorts, the Vegas style evening transformed the atmosphere, blending high-energy performances, curated experiences, and exceptional cuisine into something far more than entertainment. It created a setting where conversations flowed more naturally, perspectives broadened, and connections became more personal.
“Engaging, insightful sessions with thoughtful networking opportunities” ~ CISO Guest
Amidst the performances and shared moments over dinner, discussions moved beyond the formal agenda into real-world challenges, candid perspectives, and future possibilities. Because often, the most meaningful professional relationships aren’t built in sessions, but in moments like these.
