Hotelier Talks

People, Purpose, and Culinary Leadership

Chef V. Bharathan

Executive Chef at Avolta India, Bengaluru Airport (Terminal 1),

01-February-2026

People, Purpose, and Culinary Leadership

In an exclusive featured interaction with Hospitality News, Executive Chef V. Bharathan offers rare insights into the values and discipline that have shaped his remarkable journey in hospitality. From beginning his career at the very entry level of Food & Beverage service to leading complex culinary operations at Bengaluru Airport’s Terminal 1, his story reflects resilience, consistency, and purpose-led leadership. Now serving as Executive Chef at Avolta India, Chef Bharathan speaks candidly about the formative years that taught him patience, humility, and endurance, and the mentors who shaped his belief that leadership must be firm on standards yet humane in practice. He also reflects on balancing authenticity and innovation while cooking for fast-moving, diverse traveller audiences, ensuring comfort without compromising culinary identity. The conversation further explores his pioneering work in fireless and knifeless kitchen systems, developed to enhance safety, efficiency, and team confidence in high-volume airport environments. Equally compelling are his thoughts on inclusive employment, where dignity, trust, and opportunity emerge as the true pillars of hospitality. This thoughtful exchange goes beyond food, revealing a leader driven by character, discipline, and conscience. It is a meaningful conversation that captures the evolving essence of culinary leadership in India today. Readers can explore the complete interview in the Hospitality News February Magazine, available on our website and in the physical print edition.

Shaping the Future of Indian Hospitality: A Conversation with FHRAI President Surendra Kumar Jaiswal

Surendra Kumar Jaiswal

President of the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI)

01-February-2026

Shaping the Future of Indian Hospitality: A Conversation with FHRAI President Surendra Kumar Jaiswal

At a time when India’s hospitality and food services sector is entering a decisive phase of transformation, strong leadership and clear policy direction have never been more critical. In an exclusive and in-depth conversation, Hospitality News brings forward the perspectives of Mr. Surendra Kumar Jaiswal, President of the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), who is steering the industry through a period of opportunity, reform, and reinvention. A second-generation hotelier and a respected industry voice, Mr. Jaiswal combines hands-on entrepreneurial experience with a deep understanding of policy, sustainability, and talent development. Leading a diverse hospitality portfolio across Uttar Pradesh and actively involved in philanthropic initiatives, his journey reflects both scale and sensitivity, qualities increasingly essential in today’s hospitality landscape. In this featured interview, Mr. Jaiswal speaks candidly about FHRAI’s evolving role as a proactive policy partner, the structural changes needed to keep Indian hospitality globally competitive, and the urgent reforms required to unlock long-term, sustainable growth. He also sheds light on how hospitality-led development in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities can reshape India’s tourism economy while creating inclusive regional opportunities. Beyond policy and expansion, the conversation delves into the future, where sustainability, skilling, and digital transformation intersect. From responsible operations and workforce development to the growing influence of contactless guest management technologies, Mr. Jaiswal outlines how the industry can embrace innovation without losing its human essence. What makes this interaction especially compelling is its balance of vision and pragmatism. Each response reflects not just ambition, but actionable pathways for hotels and restaurants of all sizes, making this discussion particularly relevant for industry leaders, investors, and emerging professionals alike. The complete and unfiltered conversation with Mr. Surendra Kumar Jaiswal is featured in the Hospitality News February Magazine. Readers can explore the full interview on our website e-magazine or experience it in print by getting their physical copy of the February edition, a must-read for anyone invested in the future of Indian hospitality.

Hyatt’s Commitment to Responsible Hospitality

Ruban Das

General Manager of Hyatt Regency Chennai

01-January-2026

Hyatt’s Commitment to Responsible Hospitality

In a featured interaction with Guestvento Hospitality News, Ruban Das, a seasoned hospitality leader with over two decades of experience across Hyatt, Hilton, and Accor, shared measured insights on what it truly means to build responsible, future-ready hotels. Known for blending operational discipline with a strong people-first approach, Das has played a key role in embedding sustainability into hotel operations, most notably through Hyatt’s journey toward EarthCheck Silver certification. During the conversation, Das spoke candidly about why sustainability today must go beyond intent and messaging. With increasing scrutiny from guests, partners, and global stakeholders, accountability and data-backed performance have become essential. He highlighted how benchmarking platforms like EarthCheck bring structure, transparency, and long-term thinking to sustainability efforts. The discussion also explored how the definition of luxury is evolving. From shifting away from imported ingredients toward mindful local sourcing, to partnering with Indian producers and artisans, Das underlined how responsible choices can strengthen both sustainability and business resilience. Community partnerships, particularly those supporting rural livelihoods and circular practices, emerged as a meaningful part of this philosophy. Importantly, Das shed light on the complex, behind-the-scenes efforts that define responsible hospitality from waste management and water recycling to reducing single-use plastics and strengthening procurement systems. It was a thoughtful and insightful conversation that reinforces why responsible luxury is no longer optional but essential. The complete interview can be read in the Hospitality News January magazine, available on our website and in print.

Where Food Meets Fun: Jolly Indian’s Culinary Adventure

Manoj Padmanaban and Japtej Ahluwalia

Founder - JOLLY INDIAN

01-January-2026

Where Food Meets Fun: Jolly Indian’s Culinary Adventure

In an exclusive interview with Hospitality News, Manoj Padmanaban and Japtej Ahluwalia, the visionaries behind Jolly Indian, shared their insights on redefining Indian dining. Manoj, renowned for his award-winning Pandan Club and pioneering zero-ABV beverage program, explains that Jolly Indian was designed as more than a restaurant. “Dining isn’t just hospitality, it’s food, entertainment, and memory-making,” he says. From a dhol-filled entrance to playful moments like a giant lassi machine and a potti-kadai-style paan counter, every detail is crafted to create joy and surprise. Japtej, a prominent NRAI board member, adds that the concept celebrates India as a mood, not a map. Jolly Indian fills a gap between traditional eateries and ultra-premium dining in Chennai, offering playful, elevated comfort foods that resonate with today’s urban diner. The founders emphasize the seamless blend of creativity and discipline, involving staff in storytelling and maintaining operational authenticity. Their approach ensures that the experience guests see online mirrors the vibrant atmosphere inside. This exclusive conversation is a glimpse into the minds behind one of Chennai’s most exciting culinary ventures. It’s a fascinating discussion full of passion, innovation, and inspiration. This was an engaging and insightful conversation, and readers can explore the complete article in the Hospitality News – January Edition, available on our website and in print.

PGC Chennai: Where Lifestyle, Leisure and Family Experiences Come Together

Ms. Sonali Jain,

Managing Partner of PGC

01-December-2025

PGC Chennai: Where Lifestyle, Leisure and Family Experiences Come Together

Ponneri Gymkhana Club (PGC) has emerged as one of North Chennai’s most dynamic lifestyle and hospitality destinations. Spanning 60,000 sq. ft., it stands as the region’s largest and most integrated family club, offering a unique blend of recreation, sports, celebrations, wellness and stay experiences under one expansive space. In an engaging conversation with Hospitality News, Ms. Sonali Jain, Managing Partner of PGC, shared the vision that guides the club’s growth. Her clarity, warmth and community-first approach define PGC’s identity. “Our goal at PGC is simple. We want every guest and every member to feel valued, cared for and connected. Hospitality should make people feel at home, and that is what we strive for,” she notes. Her vision translates into a thoughtfully designed destination for every member of the family. The club features over 170 rooms and suites, a grand 800-seater banquet hall, a 5,000-capacity open lawn and facilities for 12 sports including badminton, squash, cricket, golf and table tennis. It also houses a pool party lawn, gym, spa, salon, private theatre, multi-cuisine restaurant, café and business lounge. Enhancing its culinary offerings, PGC now includes a dedicated Pure Vegetarian Kitchen, ensuring elevated hygiene, tradition and comfort. PGC has become a preferred venue for weddings, corporate events, celebrations, vacations and fitness experiences. Its membership offers strong lifestyle value with complimentary stays, full facility access, priority bookings and a vibrant community environment. Founder & Managing Director Mr. Rajeev Ajmera reinforces this purpose, “North Chennai deserved a world-class leisure and sports destination. Our objective was to build a space that families can truly call their own.” His vision continues to shape PGC as a benchmark for hospitality and community living. Guests and prospective members are invited to explore a destination that truly feels like home, Read more details and the full article in our Hospitality News December edition, available on our website and in print.

Moth to Flame – A Hotelier’s Journey Illuminating Indian Hospitality

PK Mohankumar

Founder & CEO - Turnstone Hospitality LLP

01-December-2025

Moth to Flame – A Hotelier’s Journey Illuminating Indian Hospitality

"Moth to Flame” is one of those rare stories that lingers in the heart long after the final page. Authored by veteran hotelier P. K. Mohankumar, fondly known as PKMK, the book transcends the boundaries of a traditional memoir. It is a poetic reflection on a life shaped by humility, purpose, and an unwavering devotion to the art of hospitality. Born in the serene city of Trivandrum, Mohankumar chose a path less travelled when he pursued hotel management at the prestigious Institute of Hotel Management, Mumbai, an unconventional decision at a time when engineering, medicine, and civil services dominated aspirations. The book gracefully follows his rise through the Indian Hotels Company Limited (Tata Group), where he spent over four decades contributing to the soul of Indian hospitality. From the corridors of the iconic Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, to his leadership roles as Managing Director and CEO of Taj Gateway and Ginger Hotels, his journey reflects a deep belief that hospitality is not merely a profession but a calling built on empathy and service. Along the way, readers encounter rare insights from his interactions with visionaries such as the late J. R. D. Tata and the late Ratan Tata. Mohankumar also offers an intimate look at balancing an intense career with family life, anchoring his journey in discipline, integrity, and meaningful moments despite the demands of the industry. Honoured with the Hall of Fame Award by IHM Dadar and the Lifetime Achievement Award by TajLifers Collective, he continues to guide the next generation. “Moth to Flame” stands as an inspiring tribute to passion, purpose, and the timeless spirit of hospitality. It was a truly inspiring journey and knowing about PK Mohankumar, whose leadership continues to redefine the essence of modern hospitality. This was an engaging and insightful conversation, and readers can explore the complete article in the Hospitality News – December Edition, available on our website and in print.About the Book Title: Moth to Flame Author: P. K. Mohankumar Genre: Memoir, Hospitality and Leadership Now available for readers and dreamers who believe that true hospitality begins with heart. To order your hard copy of “Moth to Flame,” please fill out the form below and complete the payment via GPay:  https://forms.gle/dbt5BM4u3iMZtP726 After payment, share a screenshot for confirmation. Your copy will be delivered within 10 working days. 

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The Future of Resort Investments in India by Dinesh Yadav

Dinesh Yadav

Founder & MD of Fine Acers

01-December-2025

The Future of Resort Investments in India by Dinesh Yadav

In an exclusive feature for Hospitality News, we spoke with Dinesh Yadav, Founder & MD of Fine Acers, who shared sharp insights into the fast-evolving landscape of luxury resort investments in India. He explained that branded resorts operating on a sales-leaseback model are increasingly appealing as they offer consistent yields and long-term value appreciation. With higher occupancy, premium pricing, and rising operating margins, branded properties continue to strengthen investor confidence. As India’s luxury hospitality segment matures, these resorts also command stronger resale values, lower operational risks, and predictable cash flows, especially when professionally managed by reputed hospitality brands. Yadav highlighted that the Fine Acers model focuses on accessibility and risk mitigation by partnering with established hotel operators and creating structured opportunities that allow even smaller-ticket investors to participate in high-quality assets. Clearly outlined revenue-share models, lease arrangements, profit-sharing mechanisms, fixed returns, or minimum guarantees enhance transparency and reduce downside risk, while branded assets naturally enjoy greater appreciation due to sustained demand and brand credibility. He further noted that India’s hospitality sector is poised to attract nearly USD 1 billion by 2028, supported by rising occupancy, ADR, and RevPAR across leisure segments. Fine Acers evaluates key indicators such as brand strength, tourism potential, contract structures, projected cash flows, and exit opportunities while assessing their resort portfolio. According to Yadav, their structured sales-leaseback model stands apart from traditional real estate or independent hotel investments by offering minimal operational involvement, stronger brand advantages, and a more secure path for investors seeking exposure to luxury hospitality. It was a truly inspiring conversation with Dinesh Yadav, whose leadership continues to redefine the essence of resort investmensts. This was an engaging and insightful conversation, and readers can explore the complete interview in the Hospitality News – December Edition, available on our website and in print.

Chef Jerson Fernandes: A Culinary Story of Resilience

Chef Jerson Fernandes

Director of Culinary Operations (Corporate Food) at Sodexo India

01-November-2025

Chef Jerson Fernandes: A Culinary Story of Resilience

In the high-octane world of gastronomy, few stories blend humility and achievement quite like that of Chef Jerson Fernandes. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitality News, the Guinness World Record holder and Director of Culinary Operations (Corporate Food) at Sodexo India opens up about a journey defined not by fame, but by fortitude. Today, as one of India’s most respected culinary leaders, his story isn’t just about mastering recipes, it’s about mastering resilience. Before the accolades and White House invitations, there was a young man in a modest kitchen, learning the true value of hard work. Chef Jerson began his journey as a dishwasher, a role that taught him humility, patience, and the discipline that would one day define his leadership. For most chefs, the dream of cooking for international delegates belongs to fantasy. For Chef Jerson, it became history, twice. Being the only Indian chef to cook for White House delegates on two separate occasions placed Indian flavours at the heart of global diplomacy. His achievements include being named Best Executive Chef of India across seven platforms and winning the Hotelier India Award twice, an unmatched feat in the industry. Beyond accolades, his philosophy remains deeply human. He believes authenticity is India’s greatest luxury—whether in a simple Goan curry or a contemporary tasting menu. His culinary repertoire has touched the lives of global icons across business, cinema, and sports, yet his focus remains unchanged: connection through food. As a mentor, leader, and advocate for inclusion, Chef Jerson has trained special needs children, collaborated with the armed forces, and transformed kitchens into spaces of learning. With over 4 million monthly digital impressions, he continues to inspire and educate a generation of young chefs. It was a privilege speaking with Chef Jerson Fernandes, whose journey proves that true success is born from humility and heart. Read the complete interview in the November issue of Hospitality News on our website, or get your physical copy to explore his full story.

The Art of Soulful Hospitality at GRT Hotels

Vikram Cotah

CEO of GRT Hotels & Resorts

01-November-2025

The Art of Soulful Hospitality at GRT Hotels

In an era when luxury is often measured by grandeur, Vikram Cotah, CEO of GRT Hotels & Resorts, is crafting a new narrative, one where luxury feels human, purposeful, and rooted in culture. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitality News, he delves into how GRT Hotels has evolved into a symbol of Soulful Hospitality, blending design, sustainability, and local storytelling to create experiences that truly connect people with people. Under his leadership, GRT has not only expanded its footprint across South India but also redefined what modern Indian hospitality can be conscious, inclusive, and deeply experiential. In this featured interview, Vikram shares insights on how the brand’s journey began, the inspiration behind The Great Butterfly Effect, and how initiatives like The Great Being and Great Divine Darshan are shaping wellness and spiritual tourism for the next generation of travelers. From sustainable operations to promoting women in leadership, and from reimagining the Indian wedding experience with Great Ceremonies to integrating AI for hyper-personalized service, every aspect of GRT’s evolution reflects a balance between innovation and emotion. Vikram’s reflections go beyond business; they reveal a philosophy that hospitality, at its core, is an act of care and connection. What stands out most in our exchange is his conviction that India’s future in tourism lies in authenticity, in celebrating regional identities while delivering global excellence. It’s a vision that feels both ambitious and deeply grounded. It was a truly inspiring conversation with Vikram Cotah, whose leadership continues to redefine the essence of modern hospitality. Read the full interview in the November issue of HospitalityNews, available now on our website  and don’t miss your chance to grab a physical copy for your collection.

Plates that Speak Stories: Chef Altamsh’s Culinary Vision

Chef Altamsh Patel

Director of Culinary at Hilton Mumbai International Airport

01-October-2025

Plates that Speak Stories: Chef Altamsh’s Culinary Vision

In an exclusive feature with October edition of Hospitalitynews magazine, Chef Altamsh Patel, Director of Culinary at Hilton Mumbai International Airport, shared insights that reveal not only his passion for gastronomy but also the philosophy that drives his success. His journey is a testament to how unexpected paths often lead to extraordinary destinations. When asked about his defining moment, Chef Altamsh reflected on his early life where his parents wished for him to become a doctor. Yet, destiny had other plans. Drawn into hotel management and eventually the kitchen of the Taj, he discovered a true sense of belonging. “What began as honoring my parents soon grew into a lifelong love, reminding me that sometimes the unplanned path becomes the one we cherish most,” he shared. Speaking about innovation and tradition, he noted, “At Hilton Mumbai International Airport, balancing innovation with tradition means sharing a part of our heart with every guest.” To him, food is storytelling, an art that surprises guests while honoring culture. Chef Altamsh also underlined how food creates cherished memories. Whether in restaurants, banquets, or in-room dining, he and his team strive to ensure every plate carries love, passion, and culture, making each meal unforgettable. On sustainability, his commitment is firm. From locally sourced ingredients to Hilton’s Travel with Purpose mission, practices like waste-to-fertilizer initiatives, cage-free eggs, and glass bottles redefine responsible luxury dining. As a mentor, Chef Altamsh believes in nurturing creativity, humility, and resilience among young chefs, ensuring excellence remains a collective effort. Looking ahead, he expressed excitement about India’s micro-cuisines and Peruvian influences, combining authenticity with multi-sensory experiences to shape the future of luxury dining. It was truly an inspiring and enriching conversation with Chef Altamsh Patel. For the complete feature, explore the Hospitalitynews October Magazine, available on our website (E-Magazine) and as a physical copy.

Redefining Hospitality Education: An Exclusive Conversation with Dr. Suborno Bose

Dr Suborno Bose

Chairman and Founder IIHM and CEO International Hospitality Council UK

01-October-2025

Redefining Hospitality Education: An Exclusive Conversation with Dr. Suborno Bose

In a world where hospitality is constantly reshaped by technology and global collaboration, few voices carry as much authority and vision as Dr. Suborno Bose, the Founder-Chairman and Chief Mentor of the International Institute of Hotel Management (IIHM) and Indismart Group Worldwide. Over the last 25 years, he has established Asia’s largest chain of premier hotel schools with campuses across the globe, while spearheading innovations that redefine the very essence of hospitality education. In an exclusive feature for Hospitality News, Dr. Bose takes us through a riveting journey of ideas and insights. He reveals how AI-powered platforms like NamAIste – IIHM HospitalityGPT, the world’s first AI model for the service sector, are reshaping the way students learn, blending technology with empathy to create leaders who are both digitally fluent and emotionally intelligent. Adding to this, he speaks passionately about the Global Knowledge Sharing Declaration on AI in Hospitality, which began with 50 countries and now includes over 60 nations. This initiative, driven by IIHM, has created a collaborative framework for integrating AI literacy, ethical practices, and equal access to education worldwide. As the conversation deepens, Dr. Bose introduces us to his philosophy of “High Tech, Higher Touch,” a principle that balances cutting-edge digital tools with the timeless warmth of human connection. He emphasizes that while AI can anticipate preferences and streamline service, true hospitality lies in the smiles, gestures, and conversations that make every experience memorable. From the International Young Chef Olympiad (YCO) to initiatives like the Food Soldier programme, Dr. Bose continues to nurture global talent while embedding sustainability, cultural respect, and innovation at the core of hospitality. His long-term vision is clear: to position India as a hub for compassionate, intelligent, and inclusive hospitality leadership. This inspiring exchange with Dr. Bose is more than an interview, it is a window into the future of hospitality, where technology and empathy walk hand in hand. For the complete interview and exclusive insights, dive into the Hospitalitynews Magazine October Edition- available now on our website and in print. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative dialogue shaping the future of hospitality.

Vivek Shukla Redefines Loyalty Through Purpose-Driven Hospitality

Vivek Shukla

CEO, The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group

01-September-2025

Vivek Shukla Redefines Loyalty Through Purpose-Driven Hospitality

In today’s world of hospitality, where loyalty programs are often defined by free nights, discounts, and upgrades, The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group has chosen a different path, one that blends guest rewards with social good. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitalitynews, Vivek Shukla, CEO of the Group, offered rare insights into how luxury and purpose can converge to create a new standard for the industry. With more than 35 years in luxury hospitality and two decades shaping The LaLiT’s vision, Shukla is widely known for his people-first approach and strategic foresight. His leadership during the pandemic, marked by initiatives that supported frontline workers and vulnerable communities, underscored his conviction that hospitality is about much more than service, it is about responsibility. This ethos is at the heart of the Group’s new loyalty program. Unlike traditional models, this initiative empowers guests to transform everyday indulgences into acts of giving. Partnering with Points for Good, The LaLiT allows loyalty members to channel their points towards diverse causes ranging from child education and sustainability to LGBTQIA+ empowerment. Shukla describes it as a shift “from transactional exchanges to purposeful, meaningful connections”. The innovation lies in embedding impact seamlessly into daily guest interactions. Shukla believes that over time, members will begin to associate loyalty not only with luxury but also with generosity and social change. “When routine stays or meals become part of something greater, it fosters a culture of care and giving back”, he says. Perhaps most compelling is the vision behind it: small contributions from thousands of guests, collectively sparking a wave of impact across India. By aligning hospitality with social responsibility, The LaLiT is rewriting the future of loyalty, one that is not just about repeat business but about emotional connection and shared purpose. Our conversation with Vivek Shukla was both inspiring and thought-provoking, challenging the industry to see loyalty in a whole new light. For the complete interview and exclusive insights, dive into the Hospitalitynews Magazine September Edition- available now on our website and in print. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative dialogue shaping the future of hospitality.

Exclusive Insights with Dr. Anshu Jalora on AI-Powered Pricing

Dr Anshu Jalora

Founder and Managing Director of Sciative Solutions

01-September-2025

Exclusive Insights with Dr. Anshu Jalora on AI-Powered Pricing

In an era where unpredictability has become the only constant in travel and hospitality, few voices carry the weight of experience, foresight, and innovation like Dr. Anshu Jalora, Founder and Managing Director of Sciative Solutions. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitalitynews, Dr. Jalora shared sharp insights on how technology, behavioral economics, and AI-driven pricing are rewriting the rules of hotel revenue management. With over 23 years of global expertise, stints at Starbucks, Overstock.com, and PROS Revenue Management, and a patent in pricing software, Dr. Jalora is not only a leader but a pioneer. His ability to bridge the precision of academia with the dynamism of the hospitality market makes his perspectives especially compelling. When asked about this year’s unexpected monsoon surge in travel demand, Dr. Jalora explained how AI-powered systems like ZettaRMS can detect weather shifts, booking pace, and competitor rates in real time allowing hotels not just to react, but to stay ahead of market waves. The difference, he notes, lies in “explainability,” enabling revenue managers to understand why pricing shifts occur while preserving guest trust. What followed was a fascinating look into the speed of pricing decisions. With ZettaRMS updating rates every 15 minutes, Dr. Jalora emphasized how short-lived surges can now be monetized with precision, often lifting ADRs by 4–5% in ways static pricing could never achieve. His revelations about post-pandemic booking patterns in India last-minute clusters, OTA user behaviors, and the surprising profitability of “shoulder nights” offered a rare, data-driven lens into the evolving market. From tackling OTA leakage with parity checks to preparing hotels for the unpredictable, Dr. Jalora stressed one recurring theme: context-specific pricing is the future. The hotels that adapt in real time will not only safeguard revenues but thrive in an increasingly volatile market. It was a truly insightful conversation with Dr. Jalora, one that promises to reshape how we think about pricing in hospitality. Want More? You can explore the full in-depth interview and exclusive coverage in the September edition of Hospitalitynews magazine, available both on our website and as a beautifully curated print magazine. Don’t miss your chance to engage with the future of hospitality, one conversation at a time.

Scoops of a Dream: Shaariq Akhtar on Yura’s Artisanal Journey

Shaariq Akhtar

General Manager of ITC Grand Chola Chennai

01-September-2025

Scoops of a Dream: Shaariq Akhtar on Yura’s Artisanal Journey

At the heart of ITC Grand Chola, one of Chennai’s most iconic star hotels, a frozen dream has been delighting the city. Yura, the artisanal gelato and sorbet destination, has quickly become a favourite among dessert lovers for its blend of nostalgia, innovation, and culinary artistry. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitalitynews, Shaariq Akhtar, General Manager of ITC Grand Chola, shared insights into Yura’s journey, its inspirations, and the philosophy behind its one-of-a-kind creations. Shaariq describes Yura as more than just gelato. For him, it is the realisation of “a beautiful dream”, a place where childhood memories and sensory indulgence meet. This philosophy is at the heart of Yura’s handcrafted flavours, whether it’s the ethereal balance of Miso Caramel, the gold-touched elegance of Idukki Vanilla, or the playful indulgence of Filter Kaapi and Rose & Paan. Each flavour tells a story, designed to surprise and comfort at the same time. What makes Yura stand apart is its ability to balance bold creativity with the warmth of familiarity. In a country where traditional sweets are deeply loved, Yura offers reinterpretations that spark nostalgia in a new form. Whether it’s Aam Papad Gelato or French Raspberry Sorbet, the intent remains the same, to bring people closer to cherished memories, now served in scoops of artisanal perfection. Shaariq also spoke about the painstaking process of creating new flavours, from the very first spark of inspiration to the final tasting session. Each step is guided by the idea that every scoop should stir emotions and leave behind an unforgettable experience. Sustainability too lies at the core, with Yura relying on mindful sourcing and renewable energy, ensuring that indulgence remains both luxurious and responsible. Our conversation with Shaariq revealed that Yura is more than a frozen treat, it’s an experience of comfort, wonder, and artistry. Every scoop tells a story, waiting to be discovered. It was truly a delightful conversation with him, and to read the complete interview, you can check out the September edition of Hospitalitynews Magazine on our website or grab your physical copy today.

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