Brewing Equality: Vadodara City's First LGBTQIA Cafe Writes History

Brewing Equality: Vadodara City's First LGBTQIA Cafe Writes History

By Author

Published on September 27, 2023

More than a century ago, during the visionary reign of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III in the erstwhile Baroda state, the eunuch community found a respectful livelihood. Today, the royal Gaekwads are once again leading a visionary initiative, this time to mainstream the LGBTQIA community and empower them towards self-reliance.

In a groundbreaking move, Gujarat's first LGBTQA cafe has been established in the city, owned and operated by the Gaekwad Trust. This cafe, named "Gajra'' after the maiden name of Maharani Chimnabai Gaekwad, represents a beacon of inclusion and acceptance. It is located in a heritage building behind the serene Sursagar Lake.

Radhika Raje Gaekwad, a trustee and the Vice President of the Shree Maharani Chimnabai Stree Udyogayala (SMCSU), shared the heartwarming details of this initiative. She emphasised, "We have hired persons from the LGBTQA community to manage and operate the cafe. The chef who cooks delicacies is also from the community." This cafe is not just a business; it's a manifestation of hope and empowerment.

The journey to this inspiring endeavour began when Radhika Raje learned of the hardships and marginalisation faced by the LGBTQIA community, particularly transgender individuals, during the first wave of Covid-19 in 2020. Her interaction with the eunuch community while distributing rations ignited a determination to integrate them into society and provide them with a livelihood.

To further empower the community, SMCSU organised skill-based training programs in hospitality management. Radhika Raje explained the driving force behind opening "Gajra Cafe," stating, "The idea was to bring the LGBTQIA community into the mainstream and facilitate regular interaction with the citizens. It will also help bring a change in people's attitude."

The cafe's menu promises a delightful blend of traditional Maharashtrian and Gujarati cuisines, offering a taste of cultural richness. Beyond the cafe's immediate goals, Radhika Raje envisions expanding the initiative by involving more community members and providing professional training. She hopes that this pioneering effort will inspire others to undertake similar endeavours for mainstreaming the LGBTQIA community.

In the words of the great B.R. Ambedkar, "Equality may be a fiction, but nonetheless, one must accept it as a governing principle." "Gajra Cafe" stands not only as a testament to Gujarat's progress but also as a symbol of the enduring spirit of inclusion, respect, and self-reliance.

Image source - The Indian Express


Lemon Tree Hotels Expands Footprint in Uttar Pradesh with New Chandausi Property

Lemon Tree Hotels Expands Footprint in Uttar Pradesh with New Chandausi Property

By Hariharan U

Published on August 10, 2025

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited has announced the opening of Lemon Tree Hotel, Chandausi, its eighth property in Uttar Pradesh. The 61-room property is set to launch in two phases, with Phase I debuting 31 well-appointed rooms, the Citrus Café multi-cuisine restaurant, and expansive banquet spaces.

Phase II will follow with the remaining 30 rooms and suites, along with Republic of Noodles, the brand’s signature Pan-Asian restaurant, a Pool Bar & Grill, fitness centre, swimming pool, and additional banquet facilities.

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Chandausi, located in the Sambhal district, is a quaint yet well-connected town whose name derives from “Chanda Si” meaning “moon-like”. Positioned strategically on the railway route linking Moradabad, Bareilly, and Delhi, the city offers strong connectivity while preserving its small-town charm.

Commenting on the launch, Vishvapreet Singh Cheema, President, Lemon Tree Hotels, said, We are pleased to announce the furthering of our footprint in Uttar Pradesh with the launch of our new property in Chandausi. This aligns with our vision of establishing a presence across India in cities across all tiers to become the most preferred hospitality chain in the country.”

With its blend of modern amenities and strategic location, Lemon Tree Hotel, Chandausi aims to cater to both business and leisure travellers seeking a fresh, vibrant stay experience in this historic town.


juSTa Hotels & Resorts to Launch Heritage-Inspired jüSTa Kashi Parampara in Varanasi by August 2025

juSTa Hotels & Resorts to Launch Heritage-Inspired jüSTa Kashi Parampara in Varanasi by August 2025

By Nishang Narayan

Published on August 9, 2025

jüSTa Hotels & Resorts, operated by Onora Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., is all set to make its Uttar Pradesh debut with the launch of jüSTa Kashi Parampara in August 2025. This will be the boutique brand’s 26th hotel in India and its first in the spiritual city of Varanasi.

Located just 800 meters from the iconic Assi Ghat, jüSTa Kashi Parampara occupies an 80-year-old ancestral home, transformed into a hotel for the first time. Offering a seamless blend of heritage and design, the property promises a deeply immersive stay experience in the cultural heart of India.

“This project is close to our hearts, not just because of its unique character and location, but because it continues our commitment to preserving and reviving heritage properties across India. We started this initiative with jüSTa Diwans Bungalow in Ahmedabad last year and this is the second heritage property we are converting into a jüSTa hotel,” said Ashish Vohra, Founder & CEO, jüSTa Hotels & Resorts.

The two-storied bungalow has been reimagined into 14 well-appointed rooms, including two elegant suites, all built around a central courtyard. Interiors in earthy tones create a serene contrast to Varanasi’s bustling atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for wellness and spiritual travellers.

Heritage elements such as 100-year-old handcrafted wooden pillars, sandstone jali work from Jodhpur, and high ceilings enhance the haveli-like charm. The hotel will serve only vegetarian food, with guests enjoying local and international cuisine at the in-house multi-cuisine vegetarian restaurant.

With its understated exterior and tranquil interiors, jüSTa Kashi Parampara is poised to offer travellers an authentic yet luxurious Banaras experience when it opens in August 2025.


The Orchid Panchgani to Open This September in the Heart of the Western Ghats

The Orchid Panchgani to Open This September in the Heart of the Western Ghats

By Hariharan U

Published on August 9, 2025

Kamat Hotels India Ltd is all set to add another gem to its eco-luxury portfolio with the opening of The Orchid Panchgani this September. Located in the scenic Western Ghats of Maharashtra, the property offers travelers a refreshing mix of tranquility, indulgence, and nature’s charm.

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Surrounded by rolling valleys, strawberry farms, and misty hills, The Orchid Panchgani promises an elevated yet immersive hill-station experience. The accommodation options cater to different tastes and occasions from cozy Classic and Superior Rooms to lavish Honeymoon, Executive, and Royal Suites. Guests can also choose unique stays in rustic wooden chalets or air-conditioned luxury tents, combining comfort with a touch of the outdoors.

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For leisure and entertainment, the property features a spa and wellness center, a fully equipped gym, indoor games, karaoke, a children’s playroom, and an in-house discotheque. Event planners and families will find ample space with the ‘Chamber’ banquet hall and a sprawling 30,000 sq.ft. lawn, making it an ideal venue for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations.

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Panchgani has always held a special place in the hearts of travelers—its natural beauty, old-world charm, and proximity to major cities make it a perfect location for our next Orchid experience. With this new property, we aim to offer a stay that blends luxury with sustainability, and comfort with culture”, said Vishal Kamat, Executive Director, Kamat Hotels India Ltd.

Dining at the in-house multi-cuisine restaurant ‘Boulevard’ will add to the experience, while adventure seekers can explore outdoor activities and sports arranged by the hotel. The outdoor swimming pool, set against a scenic backdrop, offers the perfect spot to unwind.

Highlighting its focus on culturally rich celebrations, Dr. Vithal Kamat, Chairman, Kamat Hotels India Ltd, shared, “Weddings are sacred celebrations of love and tradition. At The Orchid Panchgani, we’ve created an idyllic space where families can host culturally rich and entirely vegetarian wedding galas. With expansive lawns, elegant indoor venues, and a pure-veg gourmet kitchen, the hotel is a perfect destination for Gujarati, Marwadi, Jain, and other community weddings that value authenticity, grandeur, and green surroundings”.

With its serene location, eco-conscious design, and signature Orchid hospitality, The Orchid Panchgani is set to become a go-to destination for couples, families, and travelers looking for a luxury escape in the Western Ghats.

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