Sterling Banashree Badami, A New Sterling in Karnataka

Sterling Banashree Badami, A New Sterling in Karnataka

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on August 15, 2024

Sterling Holiday Resorts has expanded its portfolio with the opening of Sterling Banashree Badami, a new resort located in the historic city of Badami, Karnataka. This latest addition marks a significant step in Sterling’s growth, bringing the total number of its resorts across India to over 50. The resort aims to offer guests a unique blend of historical charm, adventure, and natural beauty.

Badami is renowned for its ancient heritage, including stunning rock-cut cave temples with intricate carvings that date back to the Chalukya dynasty. The area is also home to Pattadakal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Aihole, often referred to as the “Cradle of Indian Temple Architecture.” The region’s unique sandstone formations make it a popular destination for rock climbing enthusiasts.

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Set on 10 acres of lush greenery, including mango, coconut, and neem groves, Sterling Banashree Badami offers a tranquil retreat for guests. The resort features Garden View Cottages and Premier Rooms, designed as villa-style cottages with spacious sit-outs that allow visitors to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. At 558 square feet, these cottages are the largest of their kind in the area and are equipped with modern amenities, including bathtubs, providing a comfortable stay for those exploring Badami. The resort is also pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their pets along for the vacation.

Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director and CEO of Sterling Holiday Resorts, expressed excitement about the new opening, saying, “We are delighted to launch Sterling Banashree Badami to increase our footprint in Karnataka and to further strengthen our presence in the Heritage circuit, catering to the growing interest in heritage destinations among new-age travelers.”

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The resort offers more than just leisure experiences. It is also equipped to host corporate events and weddings, with a 4,000-square-foot pillarless hall that can accommodate up to 300 guests, three expansive lawns, and a private gazebo for outdoor events. The on-site multi-cuisine restaurant, Vatapi, serves a variety of global and Indian dishes, with a special emphasis on Saoji cuisine, a local specialty of Karnataka.

Ashok Kattimani, owner of Sri Ranganath Hotels & Resorts Pvt. Ltd., which partnered with Sterling, added, “Sterling Banashree Badami is designed for large families, adventure enthusiasts, and is ready to host intimate weddings. With Sterling’s expertise, we aim to make this resort a landmark for both domestic and international travelers.”


Unboxed at The Lalit: Pride Month Exhibition Puts Queer Art in the Spotlight

Unboxed at The Lalit: Pride Month Exhibition Puts Queer Art in the Spotlight

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 1, 2025

In a city where tradition and transformation often collide, Art Junction at The Lalit New Delhi has carved out a unique identity as one of the capital’s most inclusive cultural spaces. This June, it strengthens that reputation with Unboxed, a bold Pride Month exhibition celebrating queer art and voices from across India.

Curated by Praveen Mahta, Unboxed is more than just an art show — it’s an intimate, unapologetic journey into the identities, struggles, and triumphs of LGBTQIA+ artists. Running through June, the exhibition gives centre stage to works that too often remain on the fringes. As Mahta says, “This is not just about art, this is about being allowed to take up space.”

The show features a diverse mix of emotionally charged canvases, surreal depictions of love and loss, and raw reflections on gender fluidity — each piece radiating honesty and urgency. Taking things further, Padma Shri awardee Naresh Kapuria led a special workshop for participating queer artists, helping them refine their techniques and deepen their creative confidence, underscoring Art Junction’s mission to nurture talent, not just display it.

The impact is already visible. Several artworks have found buyers through the platform — a breakthrough moment for many of these emerging artists. In a remarkable gesture, The Lalit has chosen not to take any commission from these sales. As Akshay Tyagi, DEI Head at The Lalit, put it, “It’s about giving these artists a stage they’re so often denied. It’s a living, breathing tribute to our philosophy of #PureLove — where diversity isn’t a theme, but a daily practice.”

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Art Junction has long championed inclusive and accessible curation. From showcasing women artists and neurodiverse creators to supporting rural artisans and survivors of marginalisation, the gallery has consistently offered more than just wall space — it provides visibility, validation, and a voice. This vision is deeply supported by Keshav Suri, Executive Director of The Lalit and Founder of the Keshav Suri Foundation, who continues to steer the brand as a beacon of LGBTQIA+ inclusion in hospitality.

As India steadily builds its dialogue around dignity, identity, and rights, Art Junction remains a vital space — not only for art, but for authenticity and hope.

Unboxed runs until June 30, 2025, at Art Junction, The Lalit New Delhi. Entry is free. Come for the art. Stay for the revolution.


Suba Group of Hotels Launches Clarion Hotel De Renees in Gangtok

Suba Group of Hotels Launches Clarion Hotel De Renees in Gangtok

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 22, 2025

Suba Group of Hotels has announced the grand opening of its latest property, Clarion Hotel De Renees Gangtok, marking a key milestone in its Northeast India expansion. The hotel, inaugurated by Mr. Tshering Thendup Bhutia, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Commerce and Industries for the State of Sikkim, is strategically located in Lower Sichey with easy access to the heart of Gangtok.

Clarion Hotel De Renees features 38 upscale rooms designed with elegant aesthetics and modern amenities, catering to both business and leisure travellers. The property offers diverse dining experiences at Cinnamon, the multi-cuisine restaurant, and Tipsy Tiger, a stylish lounge. Guests can also unwind at the rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Himalayas, indulge in a full-service international spa, work out in a contemporary gymnasium, and relax in the indoor swimming pool.

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Reflecting a balance between functionality and luxury, the hotel provides high-end banqueting and meeting facilities, ideal for hosting corporate and social events. “This opening is a reflection of our continued commitment to delivering premium hospitality in prime locations. Clarion Hotel De Renees Gangtok is perfectly positioned to serve the evolving needs of both leisure and business travellers, while contributing meaningfully to Sikkim’s tourism ecosystem,” shared Mr.Mansur Mehta, Chairman, Suba Hotels Limited.

Clarion Hotel De Renees operates under the umbrella of Choice Hotels International, a globally renowned brand with over 7,000 hotels across 40 countries. Suba Hotels currently manages 52 Choice-branded properties in India, including Clarion, Comfort, and Quality Inn segments. “Our collaboration with Choice Hotels has played a pivotal role in shaping the guest experience across our portfolio. Clarion Hotel De Renees Gangtok is yet another step forward in our mission to blend international hospitality standards with local warmth,” added Mr.Mubeen Mehta, CEO, Suba Hotels Limited.

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With over 125 hotels in 70 locations and a total inventory of 5,906 keys, Suba Hotels continues to lead the Indian hospitality landscape through innovation and a strong guest-centric approach. Sustainability is also a key focus at Clarion Hotel De Renees, with energy-efficient systems, waste management protocols, and eco-friendly sourcing embedded into the hotel’s operations.

“Sustainability is not just a feature, it’s a foundation. Our goal is to create a luxurious yet responsible experience that aligns with the values of today’s travellers,” said K. Manish, GM Operations, Suba Group of Hotels.

With its strategic location, thoughtful design, and sustainability-driven ethos, Clarion Hotel De Renees Gangtok is set to become a new landmark in Sikkim’s premium hospitality scene.


East Lifestyle Introduces a Stunning Collection of Side Tables

East Lifestyle Introduces a Stunning Collection of Side Tables

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 4, 2025

East Lifestyle, a name synonymous with elegant and functional furniture, has unveiled a stunning collection of side tables, perfect for enhancing both aesthetic appeal and practicality in modern homes. This launch reinforces the brand’s commitment to crafting timeless pieces that seamlessly blend into diverse home interiors.

More Than Just Side Tables

Side tables are no longer just functional accessories—they play a pivotal role in shaping a room’s ambiance. Whether holding a lamp, books, or decorative items, the right side table can transform a space, adding an element of charm and sophistication.

Speaking about the launch, Aprajita Bhargava Bhasin, COO and Interior Consultant, East Lifestyle, shared:

“We believe home decor should reflect personal style. Our new collection of side tables embodies this philosophy, offering a variety of designs that enhance both functionality and elegance.”

A Collection to Suit Every Style

East Lifestyle’s new range of side tables is designed to cater to every taste, from modern minimalism to classic elegance. The collection includes:

  • Carlotta Empire Bedside Table – A regal piece that adds a touch of grandeur to any bedroom.
  • Portuguese Colonial Side Table – Featuring a unique vintage aesthetic, inspired by colonial-era designs.
  • Marble Nesting Side Table – A versatile and space-saving solution for compact areas.
  • Victorian Bedside Table – A classic design that evokes heritage and sophistication.
  • Grandios Symphony Sofa Side Table – A contemporary masterpiece that complements modern interiors.
  • Empire Bedside Table – Exuding luxury and refinement, perfect for elegant settings.
  • ChateauNoir Bedside Table – A sleek, black-finish design that brings drama and sophistication.
  • Carter Mid-Century Bedside Table – A mid-century modern favorite for minimalist homes.
  • Bohemian Bedside Table – A free-spirited, artistic design, ideal for eclectic spaces.
  • 19th Century Bedside Table – A timeless, heritage-inspired piece that never goes out of style.

Each table is crafted from premium materials, ensuring durability, longevity, and timeless elegance.

Customization & Availability

The collection is available at East Lifestyle’s flagship store in Bengaluru and online at www.eastlifestyle.in. Customers can also explore customization options to tailor designs to their specific needs.

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