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

Sheraton Grand Bangalore Celebrates 15 Years with Exclusive Anniversary Stay Package

By Hariharan U

Published on May 11, 2026

Sheraton Grand Bangalore Hotel at Brigade Gateway is celebrating 15 years of hospitality excellence with the launch of an exclusive “15 Years of Celebration Stay Package,” marking a milestone shaped by guest experiences, culinary excellence, and warm, intuitive service.

Over the years, the hotel has established itself as a landmark in Bengaluru’s hospitality landscape, offering a blend of refined comfort, global dining, and community-focused experiences. The anniversary celebration reflects this journey while extending curated privileges for guests to enjoy across the property.

The special stay package includes a range of curated benefits designed to elevate the guest experience. These include 15% savings on food and beverages across all restaurants, rejuvenating spa treatments, laundry services, airport transfers, and a guaranteed Best Available Rate for a future stay. Guests also receive exclusive perks such as INR 1,500 dining credit at Feast, 1,500 bonus points under Marriott Bonvoy, and complimentary coffee at The World Café.

Additional highlights include a complimentary buffet breakfast at Feast, two pints of beer at High Ultra Lounge, anniversary-themed in-room amenities, a room upgrade (subject to availability), late check-out until 3:00 PM, and a special souvenir on departure. Guests also enjoy 15% savings at Bounce Inc. Trampoline Park at Orion Mall, adding a leisure-driven experience to the stay.

Speaking on the occasion, Sushma Khichar said, “Completing 15 years is a proud and meaningful milestone for us. This journey has been defined by the trust of our guests, the passion of our associates, and our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences.”

The anniversary package is designed as both a celebration and a reflection of the hotel’s journey, inviting guests to experience its signature hospitality while enjoying thoughtfully curated privileges. As Sheraton Grand Bangalore looks ahead, the milestone reinforces its continued commitment to creating memorable stays and meaningful connections in the years to come.

Sayaji Hotels Launches The Forest Chapter by Sayaji in Sasan Gir

By Hariharan U

Published on May 8, 2026

Sayaji Hotels has announced the launch of The Forest Chapter by Sayaji, marking the debut of its new experiential hospitality sub-brand focused on immersive, nature-led retreats.

Located near Gir National Park, the boutique property has been designed as a forest staycation experience that encourages travellers to reconnect with nature while exploring the region’s biodiversity and cultural landscape.

The launch represents a significant step in Sayaji Hotels’ expansion into destination-driven hospitality experiences, aligning with evolving traveller preferences for authentic and meaningful getaways.

The resort features 25 cottages and villas across categories including Premium Cottages, Superior Cottages, and Suite Villas. Blending rustic aesthetics with modern comforts, the property offers spacious interiors and tranquil surroundings designed for both relaxation and exploration.

Enhancing the guest experience further, the retreat offers locally immersive activities and access to year-round jungle safari experiences, positioning Sasan Gir as a unique wildlife destination that remains accessible across seasons.

Dining at the property is centred around immersive culinary experiences, with Ember & Leaf serving multi-cuisine offerings inspired by regional flavours and global techniques. The resort also includes a rooftop café concept, landscaped lawns, and curated outdoor spaces designed for intimate celebrations and gatherings.

Speaking on the launch, Rajendra Joshi, Associate General Manager, Sayaji Hotels, said, “With the introduction of The Forest Chapter, we are proud to unveil a new hospitality vertical that reflects the evolving preferences of today’s traveller—one that seeks deeper connections with nature, authenticity, and immersive experiences.”

Adding to this, Manish Boghra, Managing Director, The Forest Chapter by Sayaji, Sasan Gir, shared, “Our vision was to create a retreat that complements its surroundings while elevating the hospitality offering in the region through meaningful and authentic experiences.”

Strategically located with connectivity to Rajkot International Airport and Junagadh Railway Station, the retreat balances accessibility with seclusion, making it an ideal escape for leisure travellers seeking nature-focused experiences.

With this launch, Sayaji Hotels continues to strengthen its portfolio by blending its legacy of personalised hospitality with the growing demand for experiential and destination-led travel across India.

The Orchid Hotel Mumbai Showcases ‘Weddings with Orchid’ Curated Wedding Experience

By Hariharan U

Published on May 6, 2026

The Orchid Hotel Mumbai has introduced ‘Weddings with Orchid’, a thoughtfully curated showcase that brings together the evolving elements of modern Indian weddings, blending scale, intimacy, and personalised hospitality under one roof.

Designed to reflect how weddings are increasingly becoming immersive and multi-layered experiences, the showcase presented a seamless journey from intimate pre-functions and wellness-led preparations to grand celebrations and comfortable guest stays. It offered couples and families a clear perspective on how every stage of a wedding can be thoughtfully planned within a single destination.

Among the highlights is The Upper Deck, a rooftop venue spanning 13,680 sq. ft., accommodating up to 800 guests. With sweeping skyline views, it provides an expansive setting for sunset pheras, receptions, cocktail evenings, and destination-style celebrations. The space allows for large-format décor, live entertainment, and curated dining experiences, creating a fluid and engaging celebration environment.

For more intimate gatherings, Prive offers a refined setting across 1,840 sq. ft., hosting up to 200 guests. Ideal for Haldi ceremonies, Mehendi functions, and close-family celebrations, the venue’s natural light and adaptable design allow each event to carry its own distinct character.

Indoor venues such as Chambers + Meadows and Chancery further enhance the hotel’s flexibility. Chambers + Meadows spans 4,464 sq. ft. and accommodates up to 300 guests, with the option to divide the space for multiple simultaneous functions. Chancery, designed for smaller gatherings of up to 100 guests, creates an elegant setting for engagements, private dinners, and milestone moments.

Adding a vibrant, social dimension is Cascade, a 7,750 sq. ft. poolside venue suited for Sangeet nights, cocktail gatherings, and festive celebrations. With ample space for performance stages, interactive food counters, and immersive décor, it brings energy and movement to wedding festivities.

Food remains central to the experience, and The Orchid’s culinary programme reflects both scale and detail. Guests can explore an extensive selection of appetisers, artisanal breads, mezze, and gourmet salads, complemented by live stations offering Asian, South Indian, Maharashtrian, and global cuisines. Signature highlights include Dim Sum counters, Teppanyaki grills, Gunpowder Vada Pops, Dragon Fruit Pani Puri, and the distinctive Naanza concept. The dessert experience features a dedicated dessert studio, live halwa counters, and innovative takes on traditional favourites such as Mini Ghewar.

A culturally rooted touch is added through elements like a curated coffee bar and traditional tea service in kullads, blending nostalgia with contemporary presentation and enhancing the overall guest experience.

The hotel also integrates essential wedding services within the property, including dedicated planning teams, venue styling support, guest experience management, and in-house salon and spa facilities. This ensures that families can prepare, celebrate, and host with ease, all within a single destination.

Located close to Mumbai airport, the hotel offers added convenience for travelling guests, while its accommodation facilities enable families to stay together and extend celebrations beyond individual events.

The showcase also highlighted wedding opportunities across the broader Kamat Hotels portfolio, opening avenues for destination weddings and multi-city celebrations.

With ‘Weddings with Orchid’, The Orchid Hotel Mumbai presents a comprehensive wedding experience, where every detail, from intimate rituals to grand festivities, is brought together through thoughtful planning, personalised service, and versatile spaces designed to bring each celebration to life

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