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 Presence with New Properties in Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh

Lemon Tree Hotels Expands Presence with New Properties in Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh

By Hariharan U

Published on December 12, 2025

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited has announced the signing of two new properties, Lemon Tree Resort, Bapatla, Andhra Pradesh, and Lemon Tree Hotel, Bhilai, Chhattisgarh. Both properties will be managed by Carnation Hotels Private Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lemon Tree Hotels Limited, and mark a strategic expansion in the South and Central Indian markets.

Lemon Tree Resort, Bapatla is located in the serene coastal town of Bapatla, renowned for the tranquil Suryalanka Beach. The resort features 90 rooms, a restaurant and bar, banquet and meeting facilities, a swimming pool, spa, and fitness centre, offering guests a refreshing escape by the sea.

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Lemon Tree Hotel, Bhilai, situated in the industrial yet green city of Bhilai, home to the iconic Bhilai Steel Plant, blends urban convenience with calm surroundings. The hotel offers 72 keys, a restaurant, banquet and meeting spaces, swimming pool, and spa, catering to both business travellers and leisure guests seeking a value-driven experience.

Commenting on the expansion, Vilas Pawar, CEO – Managed & Franchise Business, Lemon Tree Hotels, said, "With these signings, we are pleased to extend our footprint to two unique locations. From thriving commercial hubs to serene, nature-led destinations, both states offer immense potential for quality hospitality. Andhra Pradesh already has six operational and three upcoming hotels, while this will be our first property in Chhattisgarh."

These new additions reaffirm Lemon Tree Hotels’ commitment to offering vibrant, contemporary hospitality experiences across India, combining comfort, convenience, and a warm guest-first ethos.


Cygnett Hotels & Resorts Expands Luxury Footprint with Two New Anamore Registry Collection Resorts in Rajasthan

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts Expands Luxury Footprint with Two New Anamore Registry Collection Resorts in Rajasthan

By Hariharan U

Published on December 12, 2025

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts today announced the signing of two landmark luxury resorts under the Anamore Registry Collection by Wyndham brand, marking a major step in its expansion into the luxury segment. This collaboration with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts aims to combine Cygnett's expertise in contemporary Indian design with Wyndham’s global reach and commercial support.

The first property, Anamore Registry Collection by Wyndham Pushkar, will span 18 acres and feature 288 rooms, making it one of Rajasthan’s largest luxury resorts for destination weddings and events. The resort will include 20,000 sq. ft. of banquet space, multiple dining venues, wellness facilities at Blum Mudra by Ayurvyaas, recreation zones, and more. Its opening is planned for the end of 2026.

The second project, Anamore Registry Collection by Wyndham Kukas Jaipur, will cover 25 acres and offer 150 rooms, 30,000 sq. ft. of banquet space, curated dining options, wellness amenities, and outdoor event areas. Located in one of Jaipur’s prime hospitality corridors, the resort is designed to cater to both domestic and international luxury travelers, with an expected opening in early 2029.

Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & Managing Director of Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, said, “These two resorts mark an important milestone in our journey into luxury hospitality. The Anamore brand blends contemporary design, cultural richness, and soulful experiences. Our partnership with Wyndham ensures these destinations meet global standards while celebrating Indian artistry.”

Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director Eurasia, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, added, “These projects strengthen Wyndham’s Registry Collection in India. Together with Cygnett, we are bringing luxury resorts that combine world-class operations with culturally immersive experiences to Rajasthan.”

The resorts aim to position Rajasthan as a top destination for high-end travel, weddings, and celebrations. Both developments are being built by M/S Turban Landmarks LLP and STurban Resorts Private Limited.

About Cygnett Hotels & Resorts

Founded in 2014, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts is one of India’s fastest-growing hospitality companies, operating upscale and midscale hotels. With 45 hotels and 3,671 keys across India, the company plans to add over 1,000 keys annually, targeting more than 100 hotels and 9,000 keys by 2030. The portfolio includes Anamore Registry Collection by Wyndham®, Anamore Select Registry Collection by Wyndham®, Ayurvyaas®, La Quinta by Wyndham®, Cygnett Park™, Cygnett Hotels™, Cygnett Inn™, Cozzet™, and Cygnotel™ Collection.

About Wyndham Hotels & Resorts

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts (NYSE: WH) is the world’s largest hotel franchising company with approximately 8,300 hotels in 100 countries. Its portfolio includes 25 brands, including Registry Collection Hotels®, La Quinta®, Ramada®, Super 8®, Days Inn® and more. Wyndham Rewards offers over 121 million members access to stays and vacation experiences worldwide.


Wyndham Grand Unveils a Stunning Lakeside Luxury Escape in Udaipur

Wyndham Grand Unveils a Stunning Lakeside Luxury Escape in Udaipur

By Hariharan U

Published on December 11, 2025

Udaipur welcomes a new luxury landmark as Wyndham Hotels & Resorts opens Wyndham Grand Udaipur Fatehsagar Lake, a lavish lakeside retreat set across 26 acres of scenic landscapes. Overlooking the Aravalli mountains and minutes from Fatehsagar Lake, the resort marks Wyndham’s flagship debut in India’s luxury space.

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The grand opening saw an elegant gathering of hotel leaders, industry names and special guests. A traditional Rajasthani welcome set the tone—flower showers, tika and pag rituals, followed by vibrant Kachi Ghodi dancers and live regional music. With dusk settling over the hills, the celebration moved into curated culinary experiences that showcased Udaipur’s artistic and cultural charm.

Wyndham Grand Udaipur Fatehsagar Lake represents a defining milestone in our India journey. This resort is a perfect blend of Rajasthan’s timeless charm and Wyndham’s global standards,” said Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director – Eurasia, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.

The property mirrors Udaipur’s royal heritage, featuring 140 guestrooms and suites with Gokhda-style sit-outs, indulgent marble interiors and whirlpool bathtubs in select rooms. The upcoming Palace Wing will add 60 more rooms designed with an elevated heritage feel.

As a pure vegetarian resort, guests can enjoy Indian and global flavours at Pyaala, Shakahari and O Sian, each focusing on fresh, local ingredients.

The resort offers some of Udaipur’s most impressive event spaces, including:

  • One of the largest amphitheatres in the city

  • A lavish ballroom

  • Expansive Vintage Lawn for large gatherings under the night sky

For leisure, guests can unwind at the heated outdoor pool, indulge in wellness rituals at Zivaya Spa, or enjoy multiple sports—from tennis and badminton to cricket. Thoughtful services such as concierge support, childcare, butler service, bridal studios and even EV charging make stays seamless.

“Our goal was to create a space connected to the spirit of Udaipur, where mornings begin by the lake and evenings flow with warm Rajasthani hospitality,” the team shared.

With its blend of natural beauty, royal-inspired design and global comforts, Wyndham Grand Udaipur Fatehsagar Lake sets a fresh benchmark for luxury travel and celebrations in India’s beloved City of Lakes.

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