Culinary Maestro Jayanandan Bhaskar Appointed Executive Chef at Chandi Group USA, Leading New Global Ventures

Culinary Maestro Jayanandan Bhaskar Appointed Executive Chef at Chandi Group USA, Leading New Global Ventures

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 26, 2024

Jayanandan Bhaskar, an accomplished chef with over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, has been appointed as Executive Chef at Chandi Group USA, marking a significant milestone in his distinguished career. Known for his innovative culinary creations and leadership in kitchen operations, Bhaskar has previously worked with prestigious brands such as The Leela, The Hyatt, and DS Group, contributing to the shaping of fine dining experiences across India.

Bhaskar first gained national recognition as First Runner-Up on the inaugural season of MasterChef India, captivating audiences with his fresh take on traditional Indian cuisine. His success on the show led to several television appearances, including his hosting of the popular cookery show Tadka Marke for Star Plus UAE in 2012. Additionally, Bhaskar, along with his fellow contestants, earned a place in the Limca Book of World Records for creating the world’s largest chocolate éclair cake.

As part of his new role with Chandi Group USA, Bhaskar will launch Marigold Indian Cuisine in Bloomington, California. The 24-hour casual dining restaurant aims to offer authentic Indian flavors with a focus on high-quality ingredients and modern presentation to a global audience. Bhaskar has also expanded the Marigold brand into the luxury catering space with Marigold Catering Service, offering a variety of global cuisines for weddings, corporate events, and upscale gatherings.

Bhaskar's vast experience in menu design, kitchen management, and culinary training has positioned him as a sought-after consultant in the culinary world. His hands-on leadership style ensures that he meticulously oversees menu concepts, staff training, and implements rigorous food safety and sanitation practices.

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Speaking about his latest venture, Bhaskar expressed his excitement: "Partnering with Chandi Group USA to bring authentic Indian cuisine to California has been an incredible journey. At Marigold, we're blending the rich, traditional flavors of India with modern dining trends to offer a truly unique experience. The goal is to elevate casual dining while maintaining the authenticity of Indian cuisine. I'm looking forward to growing this venture and continuing to share my passion for food with a broader audience."

While Bhaskar takes on this global venture, he continues to contribute to the culinary scene in India. He is currently serving as a Chef Consultant for the DS Group's Catch Spice Division. His unwavering dedication to creating exceptional dining experiences, both in India and internationally, highlights his commitment to excellence in every project he undertakes.


The Westin Goa Appoints Preeti Mittoo as Director of Sales and Marketing

The Westin Goa Appoints Preeti Mittoo as Director of Sales and Marketing

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 18, 2025

The Westin Goa has announced the appointment of Preeti Mittoo as its new director of sales and marketing. With more than 18 years of expertise across luxury, business, and lifestyle hospitality brands, Mittoo brings a strong track record of leading teams, driving growth, and creating guest-focused experiences.

She began her career with ITC Hotels and The Oberoi Group, where she developed a strong foundation in hospitality sales. Most recently, she served as general manager, sales, North India at Lemon Tree & Aurika Hotels, successfully leading sales strategies for 32 hotels and spearheading the launch of their luxury brand.

This appointment marks her first role with Marriott International. At The Westin Goa, Mittoo’s focus will be on positioning the resort as a destination of choice in Goa while building on Westin’s wellness-infused philosophy and the vibrant spirit of the region. She envisions establishing the property as the benchmark for wellness-driven luxury in India.

Mittoo believes that true success goes beyond filling rooms, it lies in curating soulful, memorable moments that inspire guest loyalty. A strong advocate of teamwork and guest-centric hospitality, her leadership mantra is: “Inspire, empower and stay customer-obsessed, because both teams and guests thrive when genuine care is at the core.”

Welcoming her to the team, Harish Gopalakrishnan, general manager, The Westin Goa, said: “We are delighted to welcome Preeti Mittoo to The Westin Goa family! With her talent and experience, we are confident that together we will curate trend-setting, soulful experiences that position the resort as the benchmark for wellness travel in India.”

Through her new role, Preeti Mittoo aims to blend strategy with empathy, ensuring The Westin Goa remains a leader in Goa’s luxury and wellness hospitality landscape.


Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Appoints Henna Punjabi as Director of Public Relations and Communications

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Appoints Henna Punjabi as Director of Public Relations and Communications

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on September 18, 2025

Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai has announced the appointment of Henna Punjabi as its new Director of Public Relations and Communications.

Henna brings a wealth of experience in marketing and communications, with a proven track record in building impactful brand narratives and executing campaigns that resonate with both guests and media. She has been recognised with the Marketing Team of the Year award at the Marriott International APEC Elite Awards 2024 and was named Runner-Up for Marketing & PR Person of the Year at the Hotelier India Awards, reflecting her excellence in the field.

In her new role, Henna will lead the hotel’s communications and brand positioning strategy, including media relations, integrated marketing, and high-impact campaigns. Her expertise in combining creativity with strategic insight will help amplify Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai’s visibility as a leader in luxury hospitality.

Commenting on the appointment, Nitesh Gandhi, General Manager, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, said: “Henna brings with her not just experience, but a true passion for building connections through storytelling. We are delighted to welcome her to Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai and look forward to the energy, creativity, and fresh perspective she will bring to our communications journey.”

With Henna Punjabi on board, Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai continues to reinforce its commitment to excellence, where service, storytelling, and brand presence reflect the timeless elegance of the Four Seasons brand.


Treat Hotels & Resorts Strengthens Leadership With Two Key Appointments in Nashik & Sambhajinagar

Treat Hotels & Resorts Strengthens Leadership With Two Key Appointments in Nashik & Sambhajinagar

By Hariharan U

Published on September 17, 2025

Treat Hotels & Resorts has announced two significant leadership appointments, further strengthening its team as the brand continues to grow its presence in Nashik and Sambhajinagar.

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Mr. Rahuul Jaggiasi has been named Cluster General Manager – Nashik & Sambhajinagar. With over 20 years of experience, he is recognised for his expertise in brand building, pre-openings, operations, and luxury guest experiences. An alumnus of IHM-Aurangabad, affiliated with Huddersfield University, UK, Rahuul began his career with the Taj Group of Hotels. Over the years, he has held leadership roles with Lemon Tree Hotels, Pride Group of Hotels, Marriott International, Concept Hospitality, ITC Hotels’ Mementos Ekaaya Udaipur, and Ananta Spa & Resort Jaipur. Most recently, he was associated with Foodlink F&B Holdings, where he focused on expanding luxury catering and experiential dining in South India. In his new role, he will focus on strengthening operations, driving strategic growth, and enhancing guest experiences across the Nashik and Sambhajinagar properties.

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Alongside this, Mr. Parikshit Shouche has been appointed as General ManagerSales, Nashik Region. With 21 years of experience in hospitality sales, Parikshit has developed strong expertise in revenue generation and market expansion. An alumnus of MGV’s College of Hotel Management & Technologies, Nashik, he also holds a B.A. in History. He began his career with Taj Residency and went on to work with Ginger Hotels and Express Inn. At Ibis Nashik, he served for more than a decade in multiple roles, eventually becoming Director of Sales. Most recently, he was associated with Courtyard by Marriott as Director of Sales & Marketing. In his new position, he will lead sales strategies, strengthen market presence, and drive business growth for Treat Hotels & Resorts.

These appointments mark a strategic step for Treat Hotels & Resorts as it builds a robust leadership team to deliver exceptional hospitality and further its vision for growth in key markets.

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