Lakkimsetti Siva Kumar Joins Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitef

Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield Appoints Lakkimsetti Siva Kumar as Director of Finance

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 15, 2025

Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield has announced the appointment of Lakkimsetti Siva Kumar as its new Director of Finance. In this critical role, Kumar will oversee the hotel’s financial operations, focusing on shaping strategic financial policies, optimizing operational efficiencies, and driving the hotel’s continued success.

Kumar joins Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield following his impressive tenure as Director of Finance at Aloft Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, where he played a pivotal role in enhancing financial processes, managing the property’s finances with precision, and contributing significantly to its overall performance. His extensive experience in senior financial roles at top hospitality brands such as Marriott and Accor has solidified his reputation as a strategic and results-oriented finance leader.

Starting his journey as a Finance Voyager at MHRS in Kochi, Kumar’s career trajectory is marked by versatility and in-depth expertise in financial management. His strong leadership and innovative approach have consistently delivered outstanding results, positioning him as a key asset in the competitive hospitality sector.

Speaking on his new role, Kumar said:

“As Director of Finance at Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield, I look forward to collaborating with the team to enhance the hotel’s financial performance and contribute to its growth.”

Vivek Sharma, General Manager of Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield, shared his excitement:

“We are thrilled to welcome Siva to our leadership team. Siva’s expertise in hospitality finance will drive the hotel’s financial strategy, strengthen operational controls, and align with Marriott International’s vision for growth and innovation in Bengaluru’s hospitality landscape.”

With his vast experience and strategic outlook, Kumar is well-equipped to lead Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield’s financial operations, ensuring its strong financial foundation. His appointment aligns with the hotel’s commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences and achieving sustainable growth in a competitive market.

Saurabh Arya Appointed as Associate Vice President – Domestic MICE at FCM Meetings & Events in India

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 8, 2025

Saurabh Arya has been appointed as Associate Vice President – Domestic MICE at FCM Meetings & Events in India.

With more than two decades of experience in the travel and events industry, Saurabh brings a strong background in contracting, vendor management, liaising, and project execution. He began his career with MakeMyTrip and most recently served as Senior General Manager – Procurement and Execution at Thomas Cook India Ltd.

At FCM Meetings & Events, Saurabh will lead the domestic MICE segment, focusing on elevating event experiences and driving strategic growth across the Indian market. His appointment marks a significant step in strengthening FCM’s position in the MICE domain, combining operational excellence with innovative event delivery.

With his deep industry knowledge and leadership, FCM is set to achieve new milestones in the domestic events landscape.

India Flexes Readiness with Operation Sindoor Led by Women in Uniform and Nationwide Mock Drill

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 7, 2025

On May 7, 2025, India witnessed a rare alignment of strategic action and civil preparedness. As part of a national push to enhance wartime readiness, the Ministry of Home Affairs directed 244 districts to conduct a large-scale Civil Defence Mock Drill, simulating real-time emergency scenarios like air raids, blackouts, evacuations, and first-aid training. This exercise marked the first such nationwide drill since the 1971 war.

Coinciding with this drill was a decisive military action—Operation Sindoor, a meticulously planned strike by the Indian Armed Forces targeting nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation was launched in direct response to the recent brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians lost their lives.

The operation’s name, Sindoor, carried deep cultural significance. Named after the red vermilion worn by married Hindu women, it was a tribute to the widows and families of those who perished in the Pahalgam attack. The symbolism wasn't just in the name—it extended to the leadership behind its announcement.

For the first time, two decorated women officers—Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi of the Indian Army—led the press briefing from the National Media Centre, New Delhi. Their poised presence on national television not only conveyed India's military intent but also marked a historic shift in the representation of women in defence communication.

Meanwhile, the mock drill exercises included city-wide blackouts, activation of air raid sirens, school evacuations, public training at community centers, and protection simulations of critical infrastructure such as hospitals and power stations. Volunteers, students, health workers, police, and district officials coordinated the drill to identify gaps and improve emergency response mechanisms.

Government officials emphasized that the timing of the drill and the military strike was no coincidence. It was a dual-layered show of strength—one on the battlefield, the other in civil society. Together, they reflected India’s evolving national defence doctrine that blends military precision, civilian readiness, and symbolic unity.

With Wing Commander Singh and Colonel Qureshi leading from the front, India sent a powerful message—not only about its strategic capabilities, but also about the inclusive, resilient, and forward-looking spirit of the nation.

List of All 244 Locations for the Mock Drill

Spectrum@Metro and Fever FM Bring Cricket Fever to Life with ‘Ball Kids’ Bash

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 7, 2025

Spectrum@Metro Mall, in a spirited collaboration with Fever FM, turned up the excitement with a two-day cricket extravaganza — Ball Kids — celebrating the boundless energy and cricket dreams of young fans.

Hosted by popular RJs Rahul Makin and Ilahi, the event featured engaging commentary, lively interactions, and nonstop fun. The box cricket format brought kids together for friendly matches filled with enthusiasm, team spirit, and plenty of memorable moments.

Participants vied for exciting rewards including signed bats, jerseys, and exclusive merchandise, while the mall buzzed with cheer and cricket-themed excitement.

Ajendra Singh, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Spectrum@Metro, shared,

“We were thrilled to see the incredible talent and enthusiasm of these young cricket fans. At Spectrum@Metro, we are committed to creating engaging experiences that bring families and communities together, and this event was a perfect example of that spirit.”

With community-focused initiatives like these, Spectrum@Metro continues to reinforce its role as not just a retail hub, but a vibrant destination for connection, celebration, and shared joy.

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Bengaluru Marriott Hotel Whitefield Appoints Lakkimsetti Siva Kumar as Director of Finance

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Saurabh Arya Appointed as Associate Vice President – Domestic MICE at FCM Meetings & Events in India

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India Flexes Readiness with Operation Sindoor Led by Women in Uniform and Nationwide Mock Drill

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Spectrum@Metro and Fever FM Bring Cricket Fever to Life with ‘Ball Kids’ Bash

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