Binu Prasad Takes the Helm as GM at Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, Kovalam

Binu Prasad Takes the Helm as GM at Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, Kovalam

By Author

Published on August 27, 2023

Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, located in the serene landscapes of Kerala, is thrilled to welcome Binu Prasad as its new General Manager. With an impressive track record spanning over three decades in the hospitality industry, Prasad brings a wealth of experience to his new role.

Having worked with esteemed brands like Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort, Namami Health Retreat, Cherai Beach Resorts, Ramada, Abad Hotels & Resorts, Le Meridien, and Trident, as well as prominent airlines, Prasad's expertise covers various facets of hotel operations, pre-opening strategies, sales, and marketing.

Prasad's appointment reflects Niraamaya Retreats' commitment to excellence. With a strong focus on wellness, he will play a pivotal role in upholding the retreat's core values. His extensive experience will guide the delivery of exceptional service, creating an environment that promotes healthy living and well-being.

Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, an esteemed property accredited by Relais & Chateaux, is nestled amidst coconut trees and the invigorating sea breeze. The retreat captures the essence of Kerala's heritage through its timeless architecture. Here, guests can immerse themselves in tranquility and privacy.

At this picturesque haven, guests embark on a transformative journey of rejuvenation. The retreat offers a range of wellness experiences, including Ayurvedic massages and Western relaxation therapies, known for their revitalizing effects. Yoga sessions take place on a platform at the cliff's edge, allowing guests to connect with the energizing surroundings.

Binu Prasad's leadership heralds an exciting chapter for Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra, promising a continuation of the retreat's legacy of offering unparalleled experiences that nurture the mind, body, and soul. As the retreat sets its sights on the future, Prasad's guidance will undoubtedly elevate the guest experience to new heights.


Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore Welcomes Rahul Uppal as Food & Beverage Manager

Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore Welcomes Rahul Uppal as Food & Beverage Manager

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 20, 2025

Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore is delighted to welcome Rahul Uppal as its new Food & Beverage (F&B) Manager. Bringing a wealth of experience in hospitality, culinary innovation, and guest-centric dining, Mr. Uppal is set to enhance the hotel's food and beverage offerings with fresh concepts and operational excellence.

A Vision for Culinary Excellence

In his new role, Mr. Uppal will oversee the entire food and beverage division, focusing on:

  • Enhancing guest satisfaction with unique dining experiences
  • Developing innovative culinary concepts tailored to modern travelers
  • Driving operational efficiency and excellence across F&B services
  • Introducing locally inspired flavors while maintaining global culinary standards

With a strategic approach to F&B management, he brings expertise in menu engineering, cost management, and guest engagement, ensuring a seamless and memorable dining experience for every guest.

A Legacy of Innovation in Hospitality

Prior to joining Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore, Mr. Uppal held key leadership positions at renowned hotels and restaurants, where he successfully:

  • Launched new dining experiences
  • Streamlined F&B operations
  • Implemented best practices for exceptional service

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His passion for the culinary arts and deep understanding of evolving dining trends make him a valuable addition to the hotel’s leadership team.

Excited to Lead a Dynamic Culinary Team

Expressing his enthusiasm, Rahul Uppal shared:
"I am truly honored to join Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore, a brand that embodies modern hospitality with a strong local touch. I look forward to working with the talented team to create unique and memorable dining experiences for our guests while introducing innovative concepts that cater to the evolving preferences of today’s travelers."

Elevating Hyatt Centric’s Culinary Reputation

Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore is known for its vibrant culinary scene, featuring signature restaurants and bars that celebrate global flavors with a regional touch. Under Mr. Uppal’s leadership, the hotel is poised to:

  • Strengthen its gastronomic reputation
  • Offer immersive and personalized dining experiences
  • Deliver impeccable service with an innovative approach

With his expertise and vision, Rahul Uppal is set to take Hyatt Centric MG Road Bangalore’s food and beverage offerings to new heights, ensuring guests experience exceptional flavors and world-class hospitality.


From Nobody to Somebody: The Story of Thejus Shivarama

From Nobody to Somebody: The Story of Thejus Shivarama

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 20, 2025

Thejus Shivarama, Founder and CEO of Juliet and 2Moons, has carved a unique path in the hospitality industry, turning passion and perseverance into a thriving business. With a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from Alliance University, Thejus’s love for food and networking became the driving force behind his entrepreneurial success.

His journey began with Serene Mist Resort, a 9-key boutique property set in a coffee estate in Chikmagalur. This venture laid the foundation for his deep-rooted understanding of hospitality, seamlessly translating into his later successes with Juliet and 2Moons—now among the top three hospitality brands in Bangalore’s Central Business District (CBD).

A Customer-First Philosophy

Thejus believes that many hospitality brands remain rigid in their offerings, often missing out on genuine guest satisfaction. His approach is simple: give customers what they truly want.

"If a guest at an Asian restaurant craves curd rice or rasam rice, I make sure they get it," he shares. This flexibility and personal touch have become key differentiators for his brands, creating a loyal customer base that values his commitment to personalized service.

Overcoming Hardships & Learning the Ropes

Thejus’s journey wasn’t smooth. As a newcomer to the industry, he faced significant challenges, including misleading consultants who took advantage of his inexperience. Financial setbacks followed as he unknowingly overspent on unnecessary expenses—over-ordering cutlery, crockery, and food trials that inflated costs by 200%.

A three-month delay in launching one of his projects only added to the pressure, forcing him to cover staff salaries and rent before the doors even opened. Despite these struggles, he emerged stronger, learning to trust his instincts, build reliable teams, and streamline operations.

Building a Hospitality Powerhouse

Today, Thejus is credited with creating Boho Sunsets, Bangalore’s only true sundowner experience. What many initially thought would last just six months is now a well-established brand. His ability to connect personally with customers and adapt to their evolving needs has made Juliet and 2Moons a go-to destination for Bangalore’s hospitality scene.

His next big venture? Minx—a craft cocktail club set to redefine Bangalore’s nightlife. Unlike the many cocktail bars in the city, Minx aims to be Bangalore’s first true cocktail club, bringing a premium and immersive drinking experience.

A Unique Leadership Style

Rejecting the traditional corporate approach, Thejus fosters a culture of freedom and learning within his team. He encourages his staff—both Front of House (FOH) and Back of House (BOH)—to take ownership of their roles, make mistakes, and grow from them.

"My job is not to micromanage but to mentor," he says. By empowering his team to take the lead, he has built a strong, resilient, and motivated workforce, which he considers his biggest asset.

Racing with Cheetahs, Not Horses

For Thejus, staying ahead of the competition doesn’t mean following trends or copying others—it’s about staying true to his brand’s strengths. His personal mantra, "Race with cheetahs, not with horses," reflects his belief in setting his own pace, breaking conventions, and redefining hospitality on his terms.

From being an underdog in the industry to a recognized hospitality entrepreneur, Thejus Shivarama’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. With Juliet, 2Moons, Boho Sunsets, and now Minx, he continues to shape Bangalore’s hospitality landscape, proving that the real secret to success lies in passion, personalization, and persistence.


Rohit Bajpai Appointed as Cluster General Manager for Renaissance Ahmedabad and Fairfield by Marriott Ahmedabad

Rohit Bajpai Appointed as Cluster General Manager for Renaissance Ahmedabad and Fairfield by Marriott Ahmedabad

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 19, 2025

Renaissance Ahmedabad Hotel has announced the appointment of Rohit Bajpai as the Cluster General Manager, where he will oversee the operations of both Renaissance Ahmedabad and Fairfield by Marriott Ahmedabad. With over 25 years of expertise in the hospitality sector, Rohit is known for his strategic leadership, operational excellence, and guest engagement skills.

A seasoned professional with a strong background in food and beverage operations, Rohit has spent a significant part of his career working with leading hotel brands across northern India. He joined Marriott International in 2018 as the Hotel Manager at Courtyard by Marriott Siliguri, before moving to Sheraton Grand Palace Indore, where he successfully positioned India’s only pure vegetarian five-star hotel. His experience spans pre-openings, project management, hospitality training, and revenue optimization.

A Vision for Excellence in Ahmedabad’s Hospitality Scene

As Cluster General Manager, Rohit’s priorities include:

  • Enhancing guest experiences across both Renaissance and Fairfield properties
  • Driving revenue growth through innovative hospitality strategies
  • Strengthening the F&B experience to elevate culinary offerings
  • Optimizing hotel operations for greater efficiency and service excellence

Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Rohit Bajpai shared:

“I am pleased to take up this opportunity as a challenge with Renaissance and Fairfield by Marriott in a city like Ahmedabad. I am humbled to be entrusted with the responsibility of managing overall hotel operations for both properties.”

About Renaissance Ahmedabad Hotel

Renaissance Ahmedabad is a five-star premium luxury hotel located in Ahmedabad’s commercial district, close to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport and the Narendra Modi Stadium. The hotel boasts contemporary rooms, a rooftop infinity pool, a multi-specialty spa, and a 24-hour fitness center. Guests can indulge in diverse culinary experiences at:

  • R Kitchen – All-day dining with Indian and international cuisine
  • Mill & Co. – A café specializing in signature coffee blends
  • Kuro – The Asian Bistro – An award-winning Pan-Asian restaurant

The exclusive Club Lounge provides a perfect setting for business meetings or a relaxing evening.

About Fairfield by Marriott Ahmedabad

Located centrally on Ashram Road, Fairfield by Marriott Ahmedabad offers 147 elegantly furnished rooms, ergonomic workstations, and a 24-hour business center. The hotel features 5,500 sq. ft. of conference space, ideal for hosting seamless events. Guests can dine at Cafe 1st Story, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant.

Marriott International’s Legacy

Marriott International, Inc. is a global hospitality leader with approximately 9,000 properties across 141 countries. The company’s Marriott Bonvoy® program offers exclusive travel rewards and experiences.

For more details, visit www.marriott.com.

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