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


Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels Strengthens Rajasthan Presence with Jodhpur Signing

Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels Strengthens Rajasthan Presence with Jodhpur Signing

By Hariharan U

Published on January 5, 2026

Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels Ltd. (ROHL) has announced the signing of a new leisure-focused property in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, further expanding its presence in culturally significant destinations across the country. The upcoming Regenta Hotel, Jodhpur will be operated under a hotel management agreement, in line with the group’s asset-light growth strategy.

The 200-key all-suite hotel is strategically located near the Jodhpur High Court at Shatabdi Circle on New Pali Road, offering convenient access to key commercial hubs as well as the city’s prominent heritage attractions. Spread across 3,623 square metres, the property is being developed as a destination-led leisure hotel designed for longer stays and immersive experiences in the Blue City.

Regenta Hotel, Jodhpur will feature expansive conference and banquet facilities, a lobby bar, an all-day dining restaurant, and a rooftop pool bar. With its versatile event infrastructure and leisure-driven amenities, the hotel is positioned to cater to destination weddings, celebrations, premium social gatherings, and corporate events alongside leisure stays.

The project is being developed in partnership with Jodhana Real Home Private Limited & Shreeyukt. The hotel will offer spacious suite accommodations, curated dining experiences, comprehensive banqueting spaces, and wellness-oriented amenities, making it well-suited for leisure travellers and high-end social and destination events.

Banquet facilities will include a 6,000 square feet banquet hall connected to a 4,000 square feet open terrace, an additional 4,000 square feet banquet hall, and three breakaway rooms measuring approximately 2,500 square feet each.

Commenting on the signing, Chander K. Baljee, chairman & managing director, Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels Ltd., said, “Jodhpur continues to be a key market for us, driven by strong tourism demand and an evolving hospitality landscape. The signing of Regenta Hotel, Jodhpur aligns seamlessly with our vision of expanding high-quality leisure offerings in heritage cities through an asset-light model. We are confident this property will further strengthen our portfolio in Rajasthan and deliver a distinctive hospitality experience.”

Speaking on the association, Suresh Bharti, owner, Jodhana Real Home Private Limited, said, “We are delighted to partner with Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels for the Regenta Hotel project. Their proven operational expertise and strong brand credentials make them the ideal partner to introduce a premium all-suite leisure hotel in Jodhpur. Together, we aim to create a destination that blends comfort, elegance, and world-class service.”


Migsun Group Signs Clubhouse for 200-Key Hotel in Lucknow

Migsun Group Signs Clubhouse for 200-Key Hotel in Lucknow

By Hariharan U

Published on January 5, 2026

Migsun Group has signed hospitality brand Clubhouse to develop and operate a 200-key hotel at its mixed-use project, Migsun Janpath, in Lucknow. The agreement has been structured as a long-term 28-year revenue share lease, marking a strategic addition to the company’s growing portfolio of income-generating assets.

The hotel forms part of Migsun Janpath’s planned development mix, which brings together retail, commercial, and lifestyle components. With Lucknow witnessing steady growth in organised hospitality and mixed-use developments, the upcoming property is expected to cater to business travellers, social gatherings, and leisure demand.

Commenting on the development, Yash Miglani, Managing Director of Migsun Group, said, “The signing of Clubhouse is aligned with our strategy of adding stabilised, income-generating assets to our mixed-use developments. Lucknow has been witnessing consistent demand across business, social, and leisure travel, which creates a strong quality case for well-located hotels. The 28-year revenue share structure ensures long-term alignment between developer and operator while allowing the asset to respond to market changes over time. We believe this addition will strengthen the overall project ecosystem and contribute meaningfully to the city’s evolving hospitality landscape.”

The addition of Clubhouse is expected to enhance Migsun Janpath’s positioning as a destination that seamlessly integrates retail, leisure, and stay experiences, adding a strong hospitality dimension to the overall project.

Migsun Group has delivered over 40 projects across the NCR region and is recognised for its focus on quality, innovation, and timely delivery. With a robust pipeline of upcoming developments, the Group continues to expand its presence while strengthening its position in India’s real estate and mixed-use development space.


Suba Hotels Commences Operations of Click Collection Hotel in Gangtok

Suba Hotels Commences Operations of Click Collection Hotel in Gangtok

By Hariharan U

Published on December 31, 2025

Suba Hotels has officially commenced operations of Click Collection Hotel, Gangtok, marking its second landmark presence in the capital city of Sikkim. The new property strengthens the group’s growing footprint in the Northeast and reinforces its focus on delivering contemporary hospitality in emerging leisure destinations.

Strategically located at Bojoghari, Indra Bypass Road, near the helipad and within easy reach of popular attractions such as MG Marg and Tsomgo Lake, Click Collection Hotel Gangtok offers travellers a comfortable base to explore the city while enjoying scenic valley views. The hotel is designed to cater to both leisure and business travellers seeking modern comforts in a relaxed mountain setting.

The property features 42 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, blending functional design with warm interiors suited for today’s urban traveller. Guests can expect well-appointed amenities, attentive service, and a stay experience aligned with Suba Hotels’ signature standards of efficiency and comfort.

With its convenient location, contemporary rooms and focus on guest-centric service, Click Collection Hotel Gangtok aims to become a preferred choice for visitors travelling to Sikkim for holidays, business trips or short city getaways. The opening also reflects Suba Hotels’ continued expansion strategy across key tourism-driven and emerging markets in India.

As travel demand to Northeast India continues to rise, the launch of Click Collection Hotel Gangtok positions Suba Hotels to tap into the region’s growing popularity while offering travellers a reliable and comfortable hospitality option in the heart of Gangtok.

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