Holiday Inn New Delhi Aerocity welcomed the spirit of the festive season with great joy and enthusiasm as it hosted its much-awaited Annual Cake Mixing Ceremony 2025. The vibrant event, held at the hotel’s newly revamped poolside venue, brought together guests, patrons and team members for an evening filled with cheer, colour and the irresistible aroma of Christmas. Speaking on the occasion, Shuvendu Banerjee, General Manager of Holiday Inn New Delhi Aerocity, shared, “We are delighted to host our Cake Mixing Ceremony 2025. This cherished tradition reflects our commitment to creating memorable experiences and spreading festive warmth among our guests and community. With the launch of our poolside venue, we look forward to curating many more such heartwarming moments in the future.” The hotel’s enhanced poolside area, now adorned with elegant cabanas makes an ideal setting for corporate dinners, social gatherings and weddings. The refreshed venue beautifully blends sophistication with comfort, making it a sought-after destination for both leisure and celebration. As part of its upcoming festive offerings, the hotel will soon launch “Firey Barbeque & Chills- Season 2”, bringing a cozy winter dining experience by the poolside. Additionally, the award-winning Italian restaurant L’Osteria Bella will soon unveil its New Menu, thoughtfully crafted by expert chefs to delight diners with authentic Italian flavors. To showcase the poolside venue during the Cake Mixing ceremony, the guests enthusiastically participated in mixing a medley of dried fruits, nuts and aromatic spices, an act that heralds the joyous anticipation of Christmas celebrations under the sunset by the pool that glittered from reflection of lights all around. The evening came alive with lively music, delectable refreshments and an eternal festive spirit. Guests revelled in laughter …

MRG Group has announced the appointment of Manjunath Kowtal as General Manager – Sales, reinforcing its commitment to building a strong leadership team as the company charts an ambitious expansion path across its hospitality brands. A seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience, Mr. Kowtal has carved a niche in driving commercial success for some of India’s most respected hospitality names. His expertise spans sales strategy, brand positioning, and business development — with a strong focus on delivering sustainable growth and market leadership. Over the years, he has been associated with The LaLiT Ashok Bengaluru, Hammerhead Experiences, Sarovar Hotels, Ibis & Novotel Bengaluru Techpark, Bengaluru, India and Ramada by Wyndham, where he was instrumental in crafting sales frameworks that combined performance with purpose. At MRG Group, Mr. Kowtal will play a key role in shaping the Group’s sales architecture enhancing revenue models, unlocking new market opportunities, and strengthening the brand’s reach across geographies and verticals. Mr. Gaurav Shetty, Managing Director, MRG Group, said, “We are pleased to welcome Manjunath to the leadership team. His deep understanding of market dynamics and people-centric approach to sales leadership align perfectly with MRG’s growth vision.” Reflecting on his appointment, Mr. Kowtal added, “Joining MRG Group at this pivotal stage is an exciting opportunity. I look forward to contributing to its dynamic portfolio and driving initiatives that not only boost business outcomes but also enhance the guest experience.” With several new projects under development and a clear roadmap for expansion, MRG Group continues to focus on strengthening its portfolio, nurturing leadership talent, and setting new benchmarks in hospitality excellence.

IndiGo, India’s preferred airline, commenced daily, non-stop flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou, becoming the first Indian carrier to reinstate direct connectivity between India and Mainland China. The flights on this route will be operated on IndiGo’s A320 aircraft, offering a convenient and comfortable flying experience. Guangzhou in southern China is well-known as an important global business hub for manufacturing and export logistics. The resumption of connectivity from India caters to the growing demand for passenger and cargo movement between India and China, unlocking new opportunities for trade, investment, and tourism. Building on this expansion, IndiGo will also begin flights between Delhi and Guangzhou from 10 November 2025, further strengthening its presence in this important trade and travel corridor. Mr. Pieter Elbers, Chief Executive Officer at IndiGo, said, “We are excited to be the first Indian carrier to resume our daily non-stop flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou, reinstating one of the most important air links between India and China. Guangzhou, as a major commercial hub, offers immense opportunities for Indian businesses, exporters, and professionals. At the same time, it opens doors for Chinese travellers and investors to explore the rich culture and growing markets of India. This strategic move will enhance bilateral ties, support MSMEs, and boost tourism, education, and healthcare in both countries. Strengthening such links is key to our purpose of giving wings to the nation, and increasingly to the world.” Schedule of Flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou, Effective 26th October 2025 Sector Flight no. Days of Operation Departure Arrival Kolkata- Guangzhou 6E 1703 Daily 22:00 04:05 (+1) Guangzhou – Kolkata 6E 1704 Daily 05:35 07:50 *All timings are in local time zones; exact timings may differ on the respective days of …

Aumentar Hospitality Alliance LLP, a boutique hospitality consulting firm, commenced operations in early 2025. Founded by Shaista Khan and Vinita Khar, the company works alongside hotels and travel brands to strengthen their market presence through a thoughtful mix of storytelling, positioning, sales, marketing, and business development strategies. The word “Aumentar” (Spanish for amplify) reflects the firm’s vision — to help destinations and hospitality brands share their stories more meaningfully by combining creativity with commercially effective solutions. With years of collective experience in hospitality, the co-founders bring complementary expertise: ●          Shaista Khan has held key leadership roles with The Park Hotels (Regional Sales Office), Hyatt Hotels Corporation, and later as Head of Outbound Sales for Cinnamon Hotels from India. Over her career, she has built strong and lasting relationships within the travel trade networks. ●          Vinita Khar brings a strong background in sales, distribution, and strategic marketing, equipping hotels with practical and sustainable tools for growth. She began her career with Taj Hotels, later worked with Hyatt Hotels Corporation across Mumbai, Goa, and Pune, and went on to become Director of Sales & Marketing at the pre-opening of Conrad Pune. Aumentar Hospitality Alliance is grateful to have already earned the trust of a diverse portfolio of partners across the luxury and lifestyle segments, including: ●          Bürgenstock Hotel and Alpine Spa, Switzerland (India market representation – luxury) ●          Tamara Hotels (West India representation – luxury) ●          Mövenpick Sukhumvit 15, Bangkok (lifestyle) ●          Saj Hotels Ltd. (strategy management) ●          Time Hotels, Media One, and Studio One, Dubai (India market distribution) Shaista Khan and Vinita Khar, Co-Founders of Aumentar Hospitality Alliance LLP said, “Hospitality today requires more than visibility — …

Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr. Rajashekar P as the new Director of Revenue. With an extensive career spanning over a decade in revenue management, Mr. Rajashekar brings a wealth of expertise from leading hospitality brands including Park Hyatt, Hilton, Accor, Radisson Blu, and Le Meridien. Throughout his career, he has successfully driven strategic revenue initiatives, system integrations, and business growth across diverse markets. A results-driven leader, he has consistently delivered exceptional performance in MPI, ARI, and RGI metrics, alongside spearheading system transitions like Hyatt PRO and EMMA. His proven ability to optimize demand generation and enhance financial outcomes makes him a strong addition to the leadership team. At Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla, Mr. Rajashekar will be instrumental in shaping revenue strategies, forecasting, and maximizing yield opportunities to further strengthen the hotel’s market positioning. Sharing his views on the appointment, Mr. Ritesh Sharma, General Manager, Crowne Plaza Today New Delhi Okhla, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mr. Rajashekar to our leadership team. His extensive expertise and proven track record in revenue management will play a pivotal role in driving our growth strategy and further positioning Crowne Plaza Okhla as a market leader in the region.”

Akasa Air, India’s fastest-growing airline, announced the appointment of Mr. Naarayan T V as its Chief Marketing Officer, effective August 29, 2025. In this role, he will oversee the airline’s marketing, corporate communications & ESG, customer experience, eCommerce, customer loyalty, and partnerships functions. He will also serve as a member of Akasa’s Executive Committee. The appointment is aligned with Akasa Air’s accelerated growth journey as it strengthens its brand and customer proposition while progressing towards its vision of becoming one of the top 30 airlines globally by the turn of this decade. With over two decades of cross-industry experience spanning eCommerce, fintech, banking, D2C broking, and global consumer brands, Naarayan brings to Akasa Air a strong blend of strategic vision, digital-first expertise, and customer-centric leadership. He has consistently played a transformative role in shaping leading global and Indian brands, with a body of work that spans marketing communication, digital marketing, market research, product design, user experience, acquisition, sponsorships and IPs, brand building, creative strategy, content marketing, and large-scale product launch campaigns across ATL and BTL platforms. Commenting on the appointment, Vinay Dube, Founder and CEO, Akasa Air, said, “At Akasa Air, we are committed to building a world-class airline powered by our value-driven and service-oriented culture. As we continue to scale, the role of marketing and customer experience will be pivotal in strengthening the Akasa brand and deepening customer trust. Naarayan brings with him a global perspective, proven expertise in transforming brands, and the ability to blend creativity with data-driven insights. His leadership will play an instrumental role in shaping Akasa’s next phase of growth.” Naarayan T V, Chief Marketing Officer, Akasa Air, added, “I believe great marketing is a …

Sri Lanka Tourism has officially opened its doors for destination weddings, extending a warm invitation to Indian couples and families to celebrate their special day in one of the world’s most breathtaking locations. To mark this, Sri Lanka Tourism successfully concluded a series of multi-city luxury wedding shows across India, positioning the island as a premier choice for couples seeking unforgettable wedding experiences. The showcases brought together leading Sri Lankan hotels, resorts, heritage venues, and wedding service providers with top Indian wedding planners, travel agents, and media representatives. Each event offered exclusive networking sessions, immersive experiences, and tailor-made wedding concepts—demonstrating Sri Lanka’s unmatched ability to host both traditional Indian ceremonies and contemporary luxury celebrations. The Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau commented: “Sri Lanka is now open for destination weddings, and we invite India to come celebrate love with us. The overwhelming response across India reaffirmed our belief that Sri Lanka holds a special place in the hearts of Indian couples. From pristine beaches and tea garden retreats to colonial mansions and heritage forts, the island offers everything needed to create weddings that are truly unforgettable.” Why Choose Sri Lanka for Your Wedding? Diverse Venues: From barefoot beach vows and serene garden ceremonies to regal celebrations in historic forts or luxury resorts. Proximity & Easy Access: Short flights from major Indian cities and hassle-free visa processes for guests. Luxury & Affordability: Packages tailored for both grand weddings and intimate boutique celebrations. Expertise You Can Trust: World-class hospitality, wedding planners, and catering teams well-versed in Indian traditions. Unique Experiences: Cultural welcomes, VIP facilitation, airport branding, police escorts, and customs support for décor and production—ensuring a seamless journey. Strong Industry …

Developed within the 3,000-acre Vantara Project, the retreat represents a new standard for sustainable, white-label luxury wellness in India ELE|NA proudly introduces Minerals by ELE|NA, the brand’s first white-label spa and wellness retreat, an exquisite embodiment of rejuvenation, sustainability, and refined elegance. Nestled within Vantara Niwas in Jamnagar, the retreat is part of the visionary Vantara Project, a 3,000-acre transformation within Reliance’s Green Belt, spearheaded by the Ambani family. Designed to harmonise luxury hospitality with environmental stewardship and community well-being, this collaboration marks ELE|NA’s debut in India, redefining the future of white-label luxury wellness. Heidi Grimwood, Senior Vice President, ELE|NA said, “With Minerals by ELE|NA, our vision was to create a sanctuary that celebrates India’s rich wellness heritage while embracing a forward-thinking approach to sustainability. Our collaboration with Vantara Niwas brings this philosophy to life, inviting guests to reconnect with nature, rediscover balance, and experience a new era of purposeful wellness luxury. Together, we have crafted a haven where serenity and sustainability exist in perfect harmony.” Vantara Niwas: The Perfect Backdrop Vantara Niwas has already earned recognition as one of Jamnagar’s most esteemed destinations, renowned for its refined hospitality, exquisite services, and state-of-the-art amenities. Near the Vantara Animal Rescue and Conservation Centre, the property reflects a balance between indulgent luxury and purposeful living. Its serene location within the Reliance Jamnagar Complex offers an oasis for guests who value privacy, comfort, and meaningful connection to nature. Luxury Meets Wellness by ELE|NA At Minerals by ELE|NA, wellness is elevated into a bespoke journey. Guests can experience an array of therapies that blend signature ELE|NA therapies with advanced innovations in holistic health, all curated under the philosophy of Wellness Your Way™. Every element …

IFBA announces upcoming report to combat misinformation and offer evidence-based insights on palm oil, in partnership with NIFTEM-K and IHM-Delhi In a powerful demonstration of cross-sector collaboration, the Ind Food and Beverage Association (IFBA) marked World Food Day 2025 with a high-impact event focused on promoting food literacy and combating misinformation. Hosted in partnership with the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM-Kundli) and the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering and Nutrition (IHM-Delhi), the event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, food scientists, and academia to address the urgent need for science-backed food education in an era dominated by conflicting narratives and digital misinformation. Sh. Avinash Joshi, Secretary, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, said, “In today’s fast-paced world, processed foods offer unmatched convenience be it ready-to-eat meals, frozen snacks, or canned foods, helping individuals manage their time and nutritional needs effectively. However, despite the sector’s vital contribution to food safety and accessibility, public perception is often influenced by misinformation and media-driven myths”. Keeping in view of this, the Ministry has recently come out with a publication of FAQs on Processed Foods with special focus on Ultra Processed Foods (UPFs)/ High Fat, Salt and Sugar (HFSS) Foods to help disseminate scientific based knowledge and evidence on the subject.  A central highlight was the announcement of an upcoming IFBA report aimed at debunking persistent myths surrounding palm oil, one of the most misunderstood ingredients in the global food supply chain. The report will present evidence-based insights into palm oil’s role in nutrition, sustainability, and food manufacturing, with the goal of supporting more informed consumer choices and policy decisions. Commenting on the occasion, Sh. Satyen Kumar Panda, ED (Regulatory Compliance) and Advisor …

On the occasion of World Food Day, the Ind Food and Beverage Association (IFBA), in partnership with the National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM-Kundli) and the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering and Nutrition (IHM-Delhi), is launching a unique initiative that will bring together stakeholders from across the food ecosystem, including industry leaders, regulators, researchers, and academia. With rising concerns around food safety, nutrition security, and the environmental impact of food systems, the global food and beverage (F&B) industry is at a pivotal juncture. As consumer awareness grows and regulatory frameworks evolve, there is a pressing need for integrated efforts that bridge policy, innovation, and public education. Recognising this, key institutions across industry, academia, and regulators are coming together to facilitate informed dialogue and collaborative action. The event seeks to debunk pervasive myths surrounding food choices, often shaped by misinformation rather than rigorous science, specifically addressing critical concerns around palm oil, processed and packaged foods, A1/A2 ghee varieties, and protein supplements, empowering consumers with clear, science-backed information to make informed decisions. Talking about this initiative, Dr. H.S. Oberoi, Director, NIFTEM-K, Mr. Deepak Jolly, Chairperson at IFBA, Mr. Kamal Kant Pant, Principal & Secretary, IHM Delhi, in a joint statement said, “We are pleased to come together to celebrate World Food Day, not only by creating a right platform for discussion and awareness around food safety and nutrition but also by launching an exciting ‘Healthy Snacking’ contest, supported by the Indian Federation of Culinary Associations.” Adding a youth-centric dimension, IHM-Delhi and NIFTEM-K will participate in a ‘Healthy Snacking’ contest, showcasing inventive recipes that deliver sensory appeal and nutritional excellence. Judged by culinary luminaries Mr. Sudhir Sibal, (Ambassador to World Chefs Without Borders), …