Amrut Distilleries Elevates Ashok Chokalingam as COO & Master Distiller

Amrut Distilleries Elevates Ashok Chokalingam as COO & Master Distiller

By Hariharan U

Published on March 27, 2026

Amrut Distilleries has elevated Ashok Chokalingam to the newly created role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) & Master Distiller. This move reflects the company’s focus on aligning its global strategy with technical expertise as it continues to grow its presence in the premium whisky segment.

The role has been introduced to bring together international marketing and distillation under one leadership, recognising Chokalingam’s ability to bridge both areas. His journey with Amrut has played a key role in taking Indian single malt whisky to global audiences while shaping the brand’s craft and innovation.

Over the years, he has been closely involved in global tastings, masterclasses, and industry interactions, building a deep understanding of consumer preferences across markets. These insights have directly influenced experimentation at the distillery, from cask selection and maturation techniques to blending styles and flavour profiles.

His approach connects feedback from international markets back into production, ensuring that every innovation remains relevant and purposeful. This has helped Amrut maintain a balance between traditional craftsmanship and evolving global tastes.

This leadership change marks a new phase for the company, with a sharper focus on integrating operations and brand direction. It is expected to drive innovation in distillation and blending, while strengthening the global positioning of Indian single malts.

Commenting on the appointment, Rakshit N Jagdale said, “Ashok’s elevation is deeply personal and immensely satisfying for me. He embodies the very best of home-grown talent, evolving with the company, challenging conventions and raising the bar for Indian single malt. Beyond technical brilliance, his global mandate makes this appointment special. He has taken India’s whisky story to the world, absorbed international insights and applied them to strengthen our craft at home. He speaks both the language of our house style and the consumer. Formalizing this role gives me immense pride and joy as we continue building a proudly Indian, globally respected house of excellence.”

Sharing his thoughts, Chokalingam said, “I am deeply grateful to our Chairman & Managing Director, Neelkanth Rao Jagdale, for his trust and belief in me. Amrut has never been a conventional company, and my journey here has been equally unconventional — from sales and international markets to the still house and maturation warehouses. That freedom to experiment, question norms, and bridge the gap between the market and production has shaped me both as a professional and as a craftsman. Amrut gave me the platform to learn globally and create locally. I accept this responsibility with humility and determination, committed to honoring our legacy while continuing to push the boundaries of Indian single malt.”

Chokalingam began his journey with Amrut in 2004 and has since held key roles across international sales, marketing, and distillation. He later took charge of distilling operations, overseeing the creation of several well-known expressions and strengthening the brand’s premium portfolio.

He has also received multiple global recognitions, including ‘Whisky Ambassador of the Year’ and ‘Master Distiller / Blender of the Year’ by Whisky Magazine.

With this elevation, Amrut Distilleries aims to further strengthen its position as a leading name in Indian single malt whisky, combining craft excellence with a clear global vision.


Ahuja Residences Appoints Namrata Bhujel as Head of Marketing, Communication & PR

Ahuja Residences Appoints Namrata Bhujel as Head of Marketing, Communication & PR

By Hariharan U

Published on November 3, 2026

Ahuja Residences has appointed Namrata Bhujel as Head – Marketing, Communication & PR, strengthening its leadership team as the organisation continues to expand its hospitality portfolio and build its brand presence across markets.

Namrata brings 15 years of professional experience across marketing and communications, with expertise spanning integrated marketing, brand strategy, digital marketing, social media, content development, public relations and brand communication.

Her professional experience includes working with brands such as Reckitt Benckiser, Lufthansa German Airlines, SWISS, WrightBus, JCB and Germany Tourism, among others.

During her tenure with MRM/McCann, she managed a diverse portfolio of brands, overseeing integrated marketing initiatives, digital campaigns, social media, creative content and influencer collaborations. Her experience also includes client relationship management, team leadership and developing marketing strategies aligned with brand objectives and business priorities.

In her new role at Ahuja Residences, Namrata will lead the organisation's marketing, communications, public relations and brand-building initiatives across its growing portfolio of serviced apartments, hotels and hospitality offerings.

Her responsibilities will include strengthening brand positioning and visibility, enhancing digital and performance marketing capabilities, leading corporate and brand communications, developing strategic partnerships and aligning marketing initiatives with the organisation's business objectives.

As Ahuja Residences expands into new markets and hospitality formats, her immediate priorities will include building a cohesive brand architecture across the portfolio, sharpening market differentiation and strengthening the organisation's digital presence. She will also focus on developing a more integrated and measurable approach to marketing and communications, supporting new launches and enhancing stakeholder engagement.

Commenting on the appointment, Sonal Pathak, CHRO, Ahuja Residences, said, "Namrata brings valuable experience across marketing, brand building and communications, which will be important as Ahuja Residences continues to strengthen its market presence and expand its hospitality portfolio. As we enter our next phase of growth, building stronger brand capabilities and a more integrated approach to marketing and communications remains a priority. We look forward to her contribution in strengthening our brands and supporting the organisation's long-term growth ambitions."

The appointment reflects Ahuja Residences' focus on strengthening its leadership capabilities and developing a more integrated brand ecosystem to support its next phase of growth


Black Rock Hotels & Resorts Promotes Vivek Bhardwaj to Vice President – Business Development & Pre-Opening

Black Rock Hotels & Resorts Promotes Vivek Bhardwaj to Vice President – Business Development & Pre-Opening

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 30, 2026

Black Rock Hotels & Resorts has promoted Vivek Bhardwaj to Vice President – Business Development & Pre-Opening, recognising his leadership and contributions as General Manager of Pushkara Resort & Spa in Ajmer. Announced in Jaipur on 29 October 2026, the promotion comes as the group prepares for its next phase of growth.

In his new corporate role, Vivek Bhardwaj will support the company's business development initiatives and pre-opening activities as it expands its hospitality portfolio across Rajasthan and other markets. His experience in managing a resort property is expected to support the group's plans for developing and launching new hotels.

During his tenure as General Manager at Pushkara Resort & Spa, Bhardwaj gained hands-on experience in resort management, guest service and daily hotel operations. He will now use this operational understanding to support new hotel development opportunities, coordinate pre-opening preparations and work with operational teams to help bring upcoming properties into the group's portfolio.

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Commenting on the promotion, Anshul Bhargava, Chairman of Black Rock Hotels & Resorts, said, “Vivek Bhardwaj has made valuable contributions to Pushkara Resort & Spa and demonstrated strong leadership in managing resort operations. As we prepare for new hotel openings, his operational experience and understanding of our business will be important in bringing new properties into the portfolio. This promotion reflects our confidence in his ability to take on a larger role in the company's growth.”

The appointment comes as Black Rock Hotels & Resorts prepares to expand its presence through several upcoming hospitality projects. These include the group's 241-room Kingsbury hotel in Udaipur, along with signed properties in Jim Corbett and Vrindavan.

With Bhardwaj moving into a corporate leadership position, the group aims to strengthen its business development efforts and prepare for upcoming openings while drawing on his experience in hotel operations and guest service.


Hyatt Regency Chennai Welcomes Chef Sradhanjali as Sous Chef at Focaccia

Hyatt Regency Chennai Welcomes Chef Sradhanjali as Sous Chef at Focaccia

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 30, 2026

Hyatt Regency Chennai has appointed Chef Sradhanjali as Sous Chef at Focaccia, its signature Italian restaurant. Bringing experience in Italian fine dining, she joins the culinary team with a focus on authentic flavours, quality ingredients and memorable dining experiences.

Chef Sradhanjali's interest in cooking began at home, where her curiosity and love for experimenting with flavours shaped her culinary journey. Over time, Italian cuisine became her forte, drawing her towards its emphasis on simplicity, fresh ingredients and precision in preparation.

Her professional journey includes experience at leading hospitality establishments such as Jumeirah in Bahrain, Park Hyatt Hyderabad and The Oberoi Udaipur. Working in these kitchens helped her develop her skills and understanding of professional culinary operations.

At Focaccia, Chef Sradhanjali aims to bring her knowledge of Italian cuisine to the restaurant's dining experience, celebrating authentic flavours and creating dishes that bring people together. Her approach is guided by discipline, attention to detail and a commitment to maintaining the quality and consistency expected from Italian fine dining.

She also looks forward to showcasing the ingredients, techniques and traditions that define Italian cooking, with each dish reflecting the importance of careful preparation and thoughtful presentation. Her appointment further strengthens the culinary team at Hyatt Regency Chennai as the hotel continues to focus on distinctive dining experiences built around quality, craftsmanship and hospitality.

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