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.


Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa Appoints Mallika Chugh as Assistant Director of Marcom

Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa Appoints Mallika Chugh as Assistant Director of Marcom

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 24, 2025

Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa has announced the appointment of Mallika Chugh as its assistant director of marketing & communications, adding depth to its leadership team as the resort continues to grow its presence among Rajasthan’s most charming luxury destinations. Known for her creative outlook and precise understanding of hospitality branding, Chugh brings strong experience across marketing strategy, communications and brand development.

Over the years, she has worked with leading luxury hotel brands, building a solid record in boosting visibility, launching impactful campaigns and crafting meaningful brand stories that connect with travellers. Her strength lies in blending storytelling with commercial strategy, ensuring every initiative carries both emotion and purpose.

Before joining Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa, Chugh worked with well-known hospitality brands where she handled marketing, PR and digital responsibilities across multiple properties. In her most recent role, she managed cluster marketing communications, successfully repositioning properties, creating destination-led campaigns and strengthening engagement across domestic and global markets.

In her new position at the resort, Chugh will lead all aspects of marketing and communications, including brand strategy, content creation, media relations, digital storytelling and partnerships. Her focus will be on shaping a strong brand identity that highlights the resort’s stunning architecture, desert setting and cultural charm, while positioning it as a must-visit luxury destination for travellers from India and around the world.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mallika Chugh to the Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa family. Her deep understanding of marketing, communications, and brand development, combined with her creative vision and strategic acumen, makes her a valuable addition to our leadership team. We look forward to the fresh perspectives and compelling narratives she will bring as we continue to elevate our brand and guest experience,” said Nikhil Kher, general manager at the hotel.

Speaking about her appointment, Chugh said, “Joining Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa is both a privilege and an exciting challenge. The property is a masterpiece that captures the essence of Rajasthan, its heritage, artistry, and warmth. My vision is to build a brand narrative that reflects this richness while positioning the resort as a global icon of luxury rooted in authenticity. I look forward to collaborating with a team that shares this passion for storytelling and excellence.”


Crowne Plaza Greater Noida Appoints New Executive Chef and Director of Finance

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida Appoints New Executive Chef and Director of Finance

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 22, 2025

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida has announced two key leadership appointments with the addition of Arun Vats as Executive Chef and Nileshwary Sharma as Director of Finance & Business Support. The hotel aims to further strengthen its culinary and financial operations with the diverse experience and expertise that both leaders bring.

Chef Arun Vats joins the hotel with more than 22 years of culinary experience across India, the Middle East, and international destinations. A graduate of the Institute of Hotel Management, Gurdaspur, he began his career with ITC Hotels at ITC Sonar Bangla, Kolkata, and has since worked with leading brands including The Oberoi Hotels, Taj Group of Hotels and Hard Rock International. His global exposure includes roles on Carnival Cruise Lines and Holland America Cruise Lines, along with significant positions in Oman and Seychelles. Before joining Crowne Plaza Greater Noida, he served as Director of Culinary for Accor Group at Novotel Dona Sylvia Resort Goa and Mercure Devaaya Resort, Goa. Chef Arun specialises in multiple global cuisines and brings a strong focus on innovation and evolving culinary trends.

Nileshwary Sharma takes on the role of Director of Finance & Business Support with over 13 years of financial leadership experience in the hospitality and corporate sectors. A Chartered Accountant and Bachelor of Commerce graduate, she has worked with respected organisations such as R.K. Jha and Associates, Sarupria Somani & Associates, Flicker Projects – Foods & Hospitality, and Alka Group of Hotels. Prior to this appointment, she served as Director of Finance at Ananta Hotels & Resorts, contributing to strategic planning and operational efficiency.

Sharad K Upadhyay, General Manager at Crowne Plaza Greater Noida, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Chef Arun and Nileshwary to the Crowne Plaza Greater Noida family. Their remarkable expertise, global exposure, and leadership qualities will further elevate our guest experiences and operational standards. We are confident that under their guidance, our culinary and financial operations will reach new heights of excellence.”

With these appointments, the hotel continues to reinforce its position as a preferred destination for both business and leisure travellers, supported by strong leadership and a commitment to service excellence.


Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Jammu Vijaypur Appoints Ashutosh Jayee as General Manager

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Jammu Vijaypur Appoints Ashutosh Jayee as General Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 19, 2025

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Jammu Vijaypur has announced the appointment of Ashutosh Jayee as its general manager. In his new role, Jayee will be responsible for overseeing the hotel’s staff and operations, along with managing sales and marketing to strengthen the hotel’s overall performance.

Jayee previously served as the head of sales and marketing at Radisson Blu Jammu, where he contributed to driving commercial strategies and enhancing business development.

“Ashutosh Jayee is a talented and experienced hospitality professional and will play a key role in ensuring that the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Jammu Vijaypur continues providing guests with the same high-quality service and exceptional value that it has become known for in the community,” said Subash Singh Jamwal, owner of the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Jammu Vijaypur.

Jayee is a native of Jammu and a 2003 graduate of Thames Valley University in Cambridge, UK, where he received a B.A. (Hons) in Hospitality Management. He later completed his master’s in business administration and master’s in tourism management in 2010 and 2012 respectively.

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