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 LaLiT Group Appoints Ms. Harmeet Kaur as GM – Corporate Marketing & CX

The LaLiT Group Appoints Ms. Harmeet Kaur as GM – Corporate Marketing & CX

By Hariharan U

Published on October 9, 2025

The LaLiT Group has announced the appointment of Ms. Harmeet Kaur as General Manager, Corporate Marketing & Customer Experience. With nearly 28 years of experience in customer engagement, marketing strategy, and business transformation, Ms. Kaur brings a wealth of expertise to the hospitality giant.

An MBA in Marketing and an alumna of the Management Development Program at IIM Ahmedabad, Ms. Kaur began her career with Direm (now Direxions), focusing on loyalty and CRM. She later spent seven years at OgilvyOne Worldwide, working with iconic brands such as ITC Hotels, British Airways, and Benetton, delivering holistic 360° brand communications across ATL, BTL, digital, CRM, and loyalty marketing.

For over 18 years, she was associated with DishTV India Ltd., where she most recently served as Head – Customer Engagement (Retention & Usage) for brands including DishTV, D2H, Zing, and Watcho. She led communications for over 15 million subscribers, managed major transformation initiatives, designed emotionally intelligent customer journeys, and fostered a culture of customer-first excellence.

A recognized thought leader, Ms. Kaur has earned several national and international awards and has been a speaker and jury member at leading industry forums.

Mr. Vivek Shukla, CEO of The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group, said, “We are delighted to welcome Ms. Harmeet Kaur to The LaLiT family. Her exceptional experience in customer-centric marketing and deep understanding of brand transformation will strengthen our connection with guests and enhance our brand experience.”

Her appointment highlights The LaLiT Group’s commitment to innovative marketing strategies, transformative communication, and unmatched customer experiences across all touchpoints.


Chetana Suryawanshi Appointed Director of Services at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar

Chetana Suryawanshi Appointed Director of Services at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar

By Hariharan U

Published on October 8, 2025

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar has appointed Chetana Suryawanshi as its new Director of Services. With more than ten years of experience in hospitality, Chetana brings strong expertise in operations and housekeeping, strengthening the hotel’s executive leadership team.

In her new role, she will lead the Services Division, overseeing housekeeping, laundry, guest services, and operational efficiency. Her focus will be on enhancing luxury standards, driving service innovation, and ensuring every guest enjoys a smooth and memorable stay.

Chetana has previously held senior roles with top hospitality brands including The St. Regis Mumbai, Marriott International Bengaluru, and the Ramee Group. Known for combining strategic insight with operational excellence, she has consistently raised service benchmarks while nurturing high-performing teams.

Speaking about her appointment, Chetana Suryawanshi said, "Luxury is not defined by grand gestures alone, but by the consistency of care guests feel in every interaction. This opportunity at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar allows me to strengthen the very backbone of guest comfort our services and create a culture where every team member takes pride in the details."

With Chetana leading the Services Division, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar continues to uphold its promise of world-class hospitality, seamlessly blending comfort, sophistication, and memorable guest experiences.


Soham Dhar Joins Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru as Chef de Cuisine at CUR8

Soham Dhar Joins Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru as Chef de Cuisine at CUR8

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 8, 2025

Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru has announced the appointment of Chef Soham Dhar as Chef de Cuisine at CUR8, the hotel’s renowned all-day dining destination. Bringing with him over a decade of global culinary experience and a distinctive expertise in Indian cuisine, Chef Dhar is set to elevate CUR8’s offerings with his innovative and authentic approach to food.

Chef Dhar’s journey began at IHM Bhubaneswar, where early exposure to international cuisines sparked a lifelong fascination with the culinary arts. For him, cooking goes beyond flavour; it is an art form, a celebration, and a medium of human connection. His philosophy has guided a career spanning Michelin-recognized restaurants and prestigious hotels worldwide. He was recently honoured with the TOI Food & Nightlife Award, Chef of the Year 2023, recognising his contribution to the culinary landscape.

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Kazim Mehdi, Director of Food & Beverage at Four Seasons Hotel Bengaluru, said,

“At Four Seasons, we believe that the strength of our culinary offerings lies in the calibre of talent we bring to the table. Chef Soham Dhar embodies this ethos. His expertise, discipline, and creativity will ensure our guests enjoy an authentic yet elevated dining experience that matches the intuitive hospitality we are known for.”

Chef Dhar adds, “Joining Four Seasons is an exciting new chapter in my journey. The brand is synonymous with excellence and represents some of the most distinguished dining venues globally and in India. It is a privilege to be part of this legacy.”

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With Chef Dhar at the helm, CUR8 continues to strengthen its position as one of Bengaluru’s most sought-after dining destinations. Known for lavish buffet spreads, indulgent Sunday brunches, and pet-friendly lunches, CUR8 also offers an inviting alfresco setting. Guests can now look forward to culinary experiences that blend traditional Indian flavours with contemporary flair, curated under Chef Dhar’s expert guidance.

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