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.


Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences Appoints Subhadeep Saha as Front Office Manager

Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences Appoints Subhadeep Saha as Front Office Manager

By Hariharan U

Published on December 1, 2025

Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences has announced the appointment of Subhadeep Saha as its new Front Office Manager. With over 12 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he brings deep expertise in front office operations, guest engagement, and loyalty programme management.

Subhadeep began his hospitality career with Hilton Bangalore in 2013 and has since worked across properties in Bangalore, Goa, and Trivandrum. Over the years, he has been part of multiple pre-opening teams and task force assignments, strengthening operational systems and driving consistent service quality.

In his most recent role at DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru, Outer Ring Road, Subhadeep led several initiatives focused on enhancing guest satisfaction, improving loyalty metrics, and elevating overall experience delivery, contributing to stronger brand positioning in a competitive market.

Announcing the appointment, Rajneesh Kumar, General Manager, Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences, said, “At Novotel Kolkata, our success is driven by the people who bring our vision to life every day. With over 12 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Subhadeep embodies the spirit of dedication, warmth, and excellence that defines our brand. His leadership and commitment to creating seamless guest experiences truly reflect the standards we strive for at Novotel Kolkata.”

With this addition to the leadership team, the hotel aims to further elevate its guest experience, strengthen front office efficiency, and reinforce its position as one of Kolkata’s prominent hospitality destinations


DoubleTree by Hilton Goa Panaji Appoints Jitin Kapoor as General Manager

DoubleTree by Hilton Goa Panaji Appoints Jitin Kapoor as General Manager

By Hariharan U

Published on December 1, 2025

DoubleTree by Hilton Goa Panaji has appointed Jitin Kapoor as its new General Manager, marking a key leadership addition for the property. A seasoned hotelier with 23+ years of hospitality experience, Jitin brings deep operational knowledge, commercial acumen, and a strong commitment to guest satisfaction.

Before joining DoubleTree by Hilton Goa Panaji, Jitin served as Hotel Manager at Fairfield by Marriott Belagavi, where he played a key role in improving guest experience, enhancing operational efficiency, and strengthening team culture. His professional journey spans a mix of luxury and upscale brands including The St. Regis Goa Resort, The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts, Taj Hotels, Radisson Hotel Group, along with restaurant experience in Scotland.

Over the years, he has gained rich exposure across Food & Beverage, Rooms Division, and pre-opening hotel operations, giving him a holistic understanding of hotel functioning. His strong commercial focus and people-first approach are expected to drive the next phase of growth for the Goa property.

Jitin holds a Diploma in Hotel Management from IHM Lucknow and an Executive MBA from the National Institute of Business Management, combining academic depth with practical industry expertise. Known for his collaborative leadership style, he is also multilingual and team-oriented, aligning seamlessly with Hilton’s service culture.

Speaking about his new role, Jitin said, “I am truly honored to take on the role of General Manager at DoubleTree by Hilton Goa Panaji. The property has a strong legacy of warm hospitality, and I am excited to work with the exceptional team here to deliver memorable experiences, drive operational excellence, and continue strengthening our market presence.”

With this appointment, DoubleTree by Hilton Goa Panaji looks ahead to elevating its service standards, enhancing guest experience, and strengthening its presence in the competitive Goa market.


voco Amritsar by IHG Appoints Manish Kumar Yadav as General Manager

voco Amritsar by IHG Appoints Manish Kumar Yadav as General Manager

By Hariharan U

Published on November 29, 2025

voco Amritsar by IHG has announced the appointment of Mr. Manish Kumar Yadav as its General Manager, Yadav brings over 17 years of hospitality leadership across luxury, upscale, and mid-scale hotel brands. In his new role, he will lead the hotel’s pre-opening efforts, along with overseeing operations, commercial strategy, guest experience, and service excellence.

Before joining voco Amritsar by IHG, he served as Multi-Property General Manager for DoubleTree by Hilton and Wyndham Chandigarh, where he played a key role in elevating operational performance and strengthening brand delivery. He is also a two-time National Best General Manager Award winner, recognised by BW Hotelier and HVS.

Known for building strong operational frameworks, enhancing guest experience systems, and developing high-performance teams, Yadav brings a blend of strategic insight and hands-on leadership. His financial expertise and deep pre-opening experience position him to establish voco Amritsar by IHG as a standout premium hotel in the region.

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