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


Eco Hotels Signs First Boutique Property in Udaipur

Eco Hotels Signs First Boutique Property in Udaipur

By Hariharan U

Published on February 3, 2026

Eco Hotels and Resorts Limited has announced the signing of its first boutique property in Udaipur, marking a key milestone in the company’s brand expansion strategy and its entry into India’s growing boutique hospitality segment.

Located in the city of Udaipur and set amid the Aravali mountain range, the upcoming property will feature 20 thoughtfully designed rooms. According to the company, the rooms will be crafted with artistic elements and attention to detail, offering guests a blend of comfort, elegance and a serene, immersive environment complemented by scenic mountain views.

A major highlight of the property will be GG’s, a pure vegetarian, double-decker rooftop restaurant. Designed with both open-to-sky and covered dining spaces, the restaurant will offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, positioning it as a distinctive culinary destination aligned with Eco Hotels’ focus on quality and innovation.

The Udaipur signing also marks the launch of Eco Hotels’ fourth brand, The Eco Boutique, following its existing brands -The Eco, Eco Xpress and Eco Value. The new boutique brand is aimed at travellers seeking premium, experience-driven stays in culturally rich and scenic leisure destinations.

Commenting on the development, Vinod Kumar Tripathi, Chairman, Eco Hotels and Resorts Limited, said, “With the Eco Boutique Udaipur, we aim to deliver a refined hospitality experience that reflects the cultural richness and natural beauty of the region. This expansion is part of our broader strategy to strengthen our footprint in high-growth markets while maintaining our commitment to sustainability, guest comfort, and operational excellence.”

Sharing a financial and growth perspective, Vikram Doshi, Director – Finance & CFO, Eco Hotels and Resorts Limited, added, “The signing of our first boutique property in Udaipur reflects our focused approach toward expanding into high-demand leisure markets with strong revenue potential. This property is expected to strengthen our portfolio by offering a differentiated guest experience while maintaining operational efficiency and financial discipline. We remain confident that such strategic expansions will contribute positively to the company’s long-term growth trajectory.”

The property is scheduled to go live in March 2026 and is expected to further strengthen Eco Hotels’ presence in India’s leisure hospitality landscape, while offering guests a distinctive blend of comfort, elegance and scenic charm.


The Leela Palace Jaipur Celebrates India’s Literary Spirit at Jaipur Literature Festival 2026

The Leela Palace Jaipur Celebrates India’s Literary Spirit at Jaipur Literature Festival 2026

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 30, 2026

The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts partnered with the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF) 2026, as Jaipur once again emerged as a vibrant meeting point for literature, art, and culture. The festival, held from January 15–19, brought together leading Indian and global writers, thinkers, and cultural voices for five days of dialogue, debate, and celebration. Anchoring this collaboration was ‘A Literary Sojourn’, a thoughtfully curated festival stay that combined privileged access with The Leela’s signature hospitality.

During the five days of the festival, The Leela Palace Jaipur hosted the Author’s Lounge, designed as a calm and refined cultural retreat. The space became a hub for writers, thinkers, and creators to engage in meaningful conversations away from the bustle of the festival grounds. Guests experienced a blend of literary discussions, music showcases, and storytelling sessions, while a wellness corner by Aujasya Spa by The Leela offered moments of relaxation, balance, and mindfulness.

Sharing her experience, Ila Arun, celebrated Indian TV personality and Rajasthani folk-pop singer, said, “At the Jaipur Literature Festival, my most lovable stop was The Leela’s Author’s Lounge, so artistic, so slick, and bursting with positive energy. You walked in and your mood instantly lift. The food was delicious, but also so thoughtfully planned, healthy, well-selected, and never so heavy that it would slow you down. It’s the perfect pause before you step right back into the next session feeling happy. And that’s classic Leela, hospitality with heart. Warm, attentive staff, and a chef who takes personal interest, coming table to table to make everyone feel comfortable. You feel genuinely cared for, and you carry that warmth back into the festival with you.”

Commenting on the experience, Tripti Pandey, tourism expert and cultural writer, said, "As I walked into the Author's Lounge, it took me by complete surprise as it was so much more spacious, with the addition of a spa that elevates the entire experience. The Leela team truly echoes excellence in hospitality, and the flute performance added a special touch to the ambiance. The Writers Ball 2026 was absolutely lavish and grand, our international guests were completely overawed by the entire experience."

As part of ‘A Literary Sojourn’, guests were also invited to explore an elaborate culinary journey across The Leela Palace Jaipur’s dining destinations. The Aravalli Dining Room showcased Indian, Rajasthani, and Western cuisines in a global dining format. Modern Asian small plates at The Amber Terrace were paired with root-to-fruit inspired cocktails reflecting Rajasthan’s botanical heritage. The Leela’s signature seven-course fine dining experience celebrated royal Indian kitchens in an elegant, candlelit setting. Guests could also unwind at The Peacock Lounge with Mediterranean-inspired dishes and seasonal beverages, while the Jharokha Bar offered refined drinks and light bites in a heritage-inspired atmosphere.

The partnership reached its grand finale with the Writers’ Ball on January 19, hosted at The Leela Palace Jaipur. The evening brought together literary figures and cultural icons for conversations, live performances, and immersive experiences. A live performance by Kutle Khan added to the atmosphere, complemented by The Leela’s hallmark hospitality and curated culinary offerings.

Through its association with Jaipur Literature Festival 2026, The Leela Palace Jaipur reinforced its role as a custodian of India’s cultural and literary heritage, creating experiences that celebrated storytelling, creativity, and thoughtful engagement in a setting that felt both meaningful and memorable.


Hilton Bengaluru Launches ‘Republic Retreats’ for One-Night Getaways

Hilton Bengaluru Launches ‘Republic Retreats’ for One-Night Getaways

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 24, 2026

Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park have launched Republic Retreats, an exclusive one-night stay package designed for urban travellers and staycation enthusiasts. Available for stays between 24 January and 1 February 2026, the offer combines flexibility, curated dining, and exceptional value.

Republic Retreats invite guests to unwind with thoughtful inclusions such as buffet breakfast, buffet lunch or dinner, and 24-hour check-in and check-out. Guests can also enjoy 50% off during Happy Hours at the bar (12 p.m. – 6 p.m., IMFL) and hotel credits on food & beverages, including alcohol, as well as laundry services (spa excluded).

At Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, the package includes dining at F5 and generous hotel credits, while Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park offers dining at Neo Kitchen along with attractive hotel credits.

With flexible timings, enticing dining options, and lifestyle perks, Republic Retreats make it easy to enjoy a quick getaway, celebrate a special occasion, or simply take a relaxing break. Bookings are now open for stays between 24 January and 1 February 2026.

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