Ascott Unveils Oakwood Erode Resort: A Milestone in Indian Hospitality Expansion

Ascott Unveils Oakwood Erode Resort: A Milestone in Indian Hospitality Expansion

By Author

Published on December 28, 2023

CapitaLand Investment Limited's lodging unit, The Ascott Limited, is set to make a mark in India with the signing of a management agreement for Oakwood Erode Resort in Tamil Nadu. The collaboration with Sensation Hospitality Avenues LLP, the hospitality arm of Sensation Infracon, signifies a strategic move in Ascott's expansion across India.

Located in the vibrant city of Erode, Oakwood Erode Resort aims to redefine luxury and comfort. The signing ceremony, graced by Hoshang Garivala, Country General Manager, Ascott International Management India Pvt. Ltd, along with representatives from Sensation Infracon, marks a significant step in bringing unparalleled hospitality to esteemed guests.

Erode, strategically positioned on the banks of the Kaveri River and surrounded by the Western Ghats, has emerged as a key investment destination for the hospitality sector. Its connectivity through the Bangalore-Coimbatore-Kerala route and ongoing infrastructural development have enhanced its appeal as a travel and business hub.

Scheduled to be operational by December 2026, Oakwood Erode will be situated in Periyasemure, Sathy Road, offering a modern façade, 90 rooms, diverse dining options, and versatile meeting spaces. The hotel is poised to cater to the varied needs of both leisure and business travelers.

Hoshang Garivala expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, "We are thrilled to unveil our latest addition in the vibrant city of Erode in collaboration with Sensation Infracon. The new property epitomizes elegance, offering guests an oasis of tranquility and sophistication. This property embodies our unwavering commitment to redefining luxury and delivering exceptional hospitality."

Khushbu Kumari, Partner at Sensation Hospitality Avenues LLP, shared the enthusiasm, saying, "We are excited to bring the Oakwood Resort brand to Erode, a city known for its cultural heritage and economic significance. Our aim is to elevate the hotel to high international standards and offer guests an exceptional stay experience while exploring the scenic beauty of the state."

As Ascott continues to strengthen its presence in India, Oakwood Erode Resort emerges as a testament to its commitment to delivering world-class hospitality experiences. The hotel's strategic location and focus on blending regional charm with contemporary amenities align with the rich cultural legacy of Erode, promising an extraordinary stay for every guest. Cheers to the new era of luxury in the heart of Tamil Nadu!


HollyBelly Steps Into Retail with New Partnership with DLF Hospitality and Max Estates

HollyBelly Steps Into Retail with New Partnership with DLF Hospitality and Max Estates

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 9, 2025

HollyBelly has forayed into the retail space through a new partnership with DLF Hospitality and Max Estates, marking a major step forward for the brand. Known for its handcrafted foods and thoughtful culinary creations, HollyBelly now aims to bring its signature flavours closer to everyday consumers. The new retail space will showcase an elegant selection of products, including small-batch sauces, condiments, freshly baked items, and globally inspired delicacies.

Over the years, HollyBelly has grown into a Pan-India and global food and beverage brand offering a complete set of culinary solutions. From gourmet catering and curated gifting to B2B meal services, consulting, and modern event spaces, the brand has built a strong reputation for blending emotion, elegance, and expertise. Its philosophy is deeply rooted in the “Food by Mood” concept, where menus are crafted to reflect moments and experiences.

Drawing from French, British, and regional Indian techniques, HollyBelly brings both authenticity and adaptability to its offerings. The brand goes beyond the typical idea of a catering service, providing specialised B2B food solutions tailored for businesses across industries. This includes corporate food services, café and restaurant supply, artisanal bread and viennoiserie production, bulk meal preparation, custom menu development, and retail-ready product creation and packaging.

With convenient pick-up points and a menu inspired by Indian traditions, HollyBelly offers handcrafted bowls, sandwiches, smoothies, and coffee designed for consumers who seek quality without compromising convenience. The brand positions itself where tradition meets speed while maintaining freshness and flavour.

The company is led by founders with strong global influence. Founder Janeya Mehta, an alumnus of the London School of Economics and a trained classical dancer, brings a deep focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing. Her leadership has shaped HollyBelly’s vision, earning her recognition including a Forbes 40 Under 40 honour. Co-Founder and Executive Chef Rishikant Bharadwaj, trained at Le Cordon Bleu London, brings modern French and British culinary techniques to the brand. His experience spans leading kitchens in Australia and well-known Indian establishments such as Le Bistro du Parc and ATM.

With a growing presence across India and international collaborations, HollyBelly has become a trusted partner for some of the world’s leading brands. Its client list includes Facebook, Adidas, Sephora, Ritu Kumar, Coach, BMW, Jimmy Choo, Pernia’s Pop-Up, and others. Sustainability remains a key pillar, reflected in their commitment to eco-friendly menus, waste reduction, and sourcing local ingredients.

Through its entry into retail, HollyBelly continues to expand its vision of offering complete, end-to-end culinary experiences while staying rooted in thoughtful food, innovative techniques, and modern consumer needs.


Novotel Vijayawada Varun Begins the Festive Season with a Heartwarming Tree Lighting Ceremony

Novotel Vijayawada Varun Begins the Festive Season with a Heartwarming Tree Lighting Ceremony

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 9, 2025

Novotel Vijayawada Varun welcomed the festive season with a warm and elegant Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony that brought together families, friends and the wider Vijayawada community. Guests arrived dressed in cheerful shades of red and white, adding to the cosy mood and reflecting the inviting spirit the hotel is known for.

The evening honoured the global tradition of lighting the Christmas tree, a custom that symbolises hope and togetherness. Novotel blended this festive heritage with its local connect, creating an experience that celebrated both culture and community. As the tree lit up, the space took on a magical glow, making it a picture-perfect moment for everyone present.

image

Sharing his thoughts on the occasion, Hotel Manager Manish Pathak said, “Christmas at Novotel Vijayawada Varun is about creating meaningful moments for our guests. Our aim is to bring people together in a space that feels warm, familiar and joyful. This evening reminds us of the power of community and the happiness that comes from sharing simple, heartfelt experiences.”

Children were excited to meet Santa Claus, who handed out chocolates, adding a joyful moment to the evening. Christmas hats were also given to guests, and families gathered around the beautifully decorated tree to click photographs, creating memories that captured the joy of the season.

One of the highlights of the evening was the curated high tea at the Gourmet Bar. Guests enjoyed hot beverages and a refined selection of appetizers, all set within the venue’s stylish and warm ambiance. The Gourmet Bar once again proved to be one of the hotel’s most comforting and welcoming social spaces.

With thoughtful details, festive warmth and heartfelt hospitality, Novotel Vijayawada Varun created a memorable beginning to the holiday season.


Rosetta Hospitality Welcomes the Festive Season with Cake Mixing Ceremonies

Rosetta Hospitality Welcomes the Festive Season with Cake Mixing Ceremonies

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 9, 2025

Rosetta Hospitality has officially opened its festive season with its annual cake mixing ceremonies at Rosetta Sakleshpur in Karnataka and Elements by Rosetta in Varca, Goa. The celebrations mark the start of Estella 2025, the group’s signature year-end festive program, bringing guests, patrons, influencers and team members together to celebrate heritage, community and the warm spirit of Christmas.

At Rosetta Sakleshpur, the gathering brought together resident guests, VIPs, influencers and associates for a cheerful afternoon filled with festive charm. A hot-chocolate trolley added winter comfort while a live choir sang classic Christmas carols, creating a heartwarming atmosphere. Families, couples and team members joined around the grand mixing table to prepare a rich fruit blend of black currants, golden raisins, figs, cherries, cranberries, assorted nuts, orange peel, tutti frutti and warm spices. The mix was soaked in red wine, brandy and rum, setting the tone for the festive season at the resort.

A week earlier, Elements by Rosetta in Varca, Goa hosted its cake mixing ceremony on the resort lawns. Resident guests, non-resident patrons and team members participated in a lively afternoon by the poolside. Music, festive cheer and the coastal ambience shaped the celebration as participants mixed a generous blend of golden and black raisins, apricots, cranberries, prunes, figs, candied peels and assorted nuts with aged rum, brandy, white spirits, liqueurs and wine. A regional touch of Goan cashews added a coastal flavour to the traditional preparation.

Reflecting on this treasured tradition, Joint Managing Director & CEO, Mr. Jai Sreedhar said, “The cake mixing ceremony is one of our most cherished Christmas traditions at Rosetta Hospitality. It brings our guests, patrons, and teams together in a heartfelt way and sets the tone for the warmth and connection that define the festive season across our properties.”

Across both destinations, the ceremonies highlighted the importance of community celebrations within hospitality. With the fruit now resting in its aromatic blend, Rosetta Hospitality has set the stage for Christmas and New Year experiences under Estella 2025 at its Sakleshpur and South Goa properties.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.