Dare to Dream: Women in Hospitality Who Show You It’s Possible

Dare to Dream: Women in Hospitality Who Show You It’s Possible

By Author

Published on November 6, 2023

In the heart of the hospitality industry, where warmth meets service, women are not just participants; they're trailblazers crafting remarkable experiences. Their presence is a testament to the power of inclusivity and the diverse strengths they bring to the table. Encouragement is not in short supply, and for women contemplating a venture into this vibrant sector, know this: you stand on the sturdy shoulders of giants. Here are six shining examples of success who prove that in hospitality, sisterhood thrives.

1. Isadore Sharp - Founder of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

While not a woman, Isadore Sharp's inclusion is pivotal as he championed women in leadership roles within his luxury hotel chain, setting a precedent for diversity and empowerment. Four Seasons is renowned for its exceptional service, a standard often attributed to the empathetic leadership and attention to detail that women bring to the industry.

2. Christina Ong - The Mind Behind COMO Hotels and Resorts

Christina Ong, dubbed "The Queen of Bond Street," ventured into the hospitality scene with her unique brand of luxury resorts and city hotels. Ong's establishments are more than just a place to stay; they are sanctuaries that reflect her philosophy of holistic well-being, blending culture with comfort—a space where women, especially, can flourish in leadership.

3. Katara Hospitality - A Company Elevating Women Leaders

Based in Qatar, Katara Hospitality has been a forerunner in empowering women within the Middle East, showcasing that gender diversity is key to innovative and sustainable growth. They've shattered ceilings, proving that women in hospitality are not just present but are driving progress and excellence.

4. Priya Paul - The Chairperson of Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels

Priya Paul is a force to be reckoned with, steering her group’s collection of boutique hotels to new heights. Under her guidance, The Park Hotels have become synonymous with contemporary luxury and cultural vibrancy. Her leadership style is a blueprint for women eyeing the hospitality summit.

5. Ritu Dalmia - Celebrated Chef and Restaurateur

Ritu Dalmia, a chef extraordinaire, adds her zest to the hospitality industry with her chain of restaurants. She has not only brought a spotlight to culinary art but also shown that the kitchen, often a male-dominated space, can be helmed excellently by women with passion and panache.

6. Niki Leondakis - Former CEO of Equinox Fitness Clubs and Hotels

Niki Leondakis has made waves with her dynamic approach to leadership in the hotel sector. With a career that has spanned various hospitality giants, she has become a role model for women who aspire to reach executive roles, proving that with tenacity, the glass ceiling is but an illusion.

These icons, among countless others, are proof that women are crafting the narrative of hospitality with every successful venture. For every woman on the cusp of stepping into hospitality, let these stories embolden you. The industry doesn't just need women; it thrives because of them. So step in, the stage is set, and the audience is eager to witness your story unfold in the splendid theater of hospitality.


Colorful Statements for the Season of Joy: The Curated Holi Edit by Kalyan Jewellers

Colorful Statements for the Season of Joy: The Curated Holi Edit by Kalyan Jewellers

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 2, 2026

This Holi, Kalyan Jewellers brings the festival’s joyful energy to life with a thoughtfully curated edit of colourful and statement-making jewellery. Designed to reflect the exuberance of the season, the collection showcases a lively mix of multicoloured gemstones and detailed gold craftsmanship, creating pieces that feel festive, elegant, and timeless.

Rooted in tradition and refreshed with contemporary appeal, each design captures the essence of Holi through colour, form, and fine detailing. From antique gold sets rich in heritage to diamond pieces with refined sparkle, the edit offers versatile options for festive gatherings, intimate celebrations, and everything in between. Whether paired with classic whites, soft pastels, or rich silks, these creations add a radiant finishing touch to any Holi look.

Vibrant Traditions: The Multi-Hued Antique Set

Celebrate the spirit of Holi with this antique gold set adorned with festive emerald greens, royal purples, and ruby reds that mirror the playful hues of gulal. Intricate gold detailing and a serene teardrop turquoise centerpiece add depth and balance to the design. Ideal for festive occasions, the set pairs beautifully with a classic white kurta or a soft pastel saree, allowing the colours to stand out with ease.

Kaleidoscope of Joy: The Multi-Stone Antique Set

This antique gold set brings together a vivid mix of purple, blue, and earthy-toned gemstones, capturing the exuberance of the season. A striking green focal stone sits at the centre, framed by ornate gold work and subtle pearl accents. Rich in character and festive charm, the piece complements ivory or pastel ensembles, letting its dynamic tones glow naturally.

Festive Spectrum: The Multicolour Heritage Set

Inspired by the playful colours of Holi, this heritage-style antique set features a bold blend of emerald, ruby, and turquoise hues. Detailed peacock motifs and delicate seed pearl accents lend the design a traditional yet lively appeal. Perfect for festive gatherings, it pairs effortlessly with a cream silk saree or a soft pastel outfit.

Floral Radiance: The Emerald and Ruby Diamond Set

For those who prefer refined sparkle, this diamond set offers a graceful take on festive dressing. Intricate floral motifs studded with diamonds are highlighted by pear-shaped emeralds and vibrant ruby accents, bringing together fresh greens and festive pinks. Elegant and celebratory, the set works beautifully with a rich silk saree or a contemporary pastel ensemble.

Vibrant Elegance: The Multicoloured Long Necklace Set

This antique long necklace set makes a bold festive statement with rich green and calming blue gemstones set in ornate antique gold. Finished with delicate seed pearls, the design balances grandeur with timeless charm. Ideal for Holi celebrations, it pairs well with a white Anarkali or a deep-toned saree for a look that feels regal yet festive.

With its Curated Holi Edit, Kalyan Jewellers offers jewellery that celebrates colour, craftsmanship, and joy, making every festive moment feel a little more special.


Taste of Brasil 2026 Launches in India to Spotlight Premium Brazilian Foods

Taste of Brasil 2026 Launches in India to Spotlight Premium Brazilian Foods

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 28, 2026

Taste of Brasil 2026, an international food and culinary initiative led by ApexBrasil, officially made its India debut on 18 February 2026 in New Delhi. The initiative will also be introduced in Mumbai on 23 February 2026, bringing Brazil’s premium food offerings closer to India’s rapidly expanding health and wellness market.

The New Delhi launch was attended by key dignitaries including Jorge Viana, President of ApexBrasil; Paulo Teixeira, Honourable Minister of Rural Development and Family Farming of Brazil; and Marcio Elias, Honourable Vice Minister of Development, Industry, Commerce and Services of Brazil. The event also saw participation from industry stakeholders, importers, distributors, retailers, chefs, and members of the media.

Taste of Brasil 2026 focuses on building awareness, encouraging product trials, and strengthening trade and consumer engagement through immersive retail experiences and culinary storytelling. The campaign aims to create a deeper connection between Brazilian producers and Indian consumers by showcasing the quality, versatility, and story behind Brazilian food products.

Brazil, known for its vast biodiversity and fertile landscapes, produces some of the world’s most nutritious nuts, fruits, and superfoods. From the Amazon rainforest to tropical orchards, Brazilian foods are recognised for their taste, nutritional value, and suitability for modern, health-focused lifestyles.

The initiative highlights a carefully selected range of Brazilian products including Brazil Nuts, Brazil Nut Milk, Açaí Pulp, Açaí Powder, Tahiti Limes, and Exotic Frozen plant-based meals. These products reflect Brazil’s leadership in biodiversity-driven agriculture and its strong reputation for quality, safety, and sustainability on the global stage.

Ingredients such as Brazil nuts and açaí have gained international popularity for their health benefits and flexibility across cuisines. With Indian consumers increasingly leaning towards plant-based nutrition, functional foods, and global flavours, Brazilian products align naturally with evolving food preferences in the country.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Jorge Viana said, “India represents a dynamic and fast-growing market with a sophisticated and increasingly health-conscious consumer base. Through Taste of Brasil 2026, we are proud to present the diversity, quality, and sustainability of Brazilian food products. This initiative is not only about promoting exports; it is about building long-term partnerships, promoting sustainability and innovation in food, and strengthening the bridge between Brazilian producers and Indian consumers.”

Adding to this, José Mauro da Fonseca Costa Couto, Consul General of Brazil in Mumbai, remarked, “Brazil and India share strong diplomatic and economic relations rooted in mutual respect and cooperation. The launch of Taste of Brasil 2026 in both New Delhi and Mumbai reflects our commitment to deepening agri-food trade and enhancing people-to-people connections through culinary exchange. We see tremendous potential for collaboration across retail, hospitality, and food processing sectors.”

Looking ahead, ApexBrasil plans to further strengthen trade ties between Brazil and India by expanding market access, increasing retail presence, and encouraging culinary innovation. With rising demand for sustainable, plant-based, and globally inspired foods, Taste of Brasil 2026 lays the groundwork for long-term partnerships and a stronger Brazilian food presence in India.


UNOX India Expands to Kochi with the Launch of the UNOX Lounge

UNOX India Expands to Kochi with the Launch of the UNOX Lounge

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 28, 2026

UNOX, a leading Italian manufacturer of professional cooking equipment trusted by chefs and foodservice operators across more than 130 countries, marked an important step in its India expansion with the launch of the UNOX Lounge Kochi on February 25, 2026. The new lounge was inaugurated at Rising Loaf Academy of Baking and Pastry Arts, Palarivattom, Kochi, in collaboration with Savvy Kitchen Equipment, represented by its Partner, Mr. Ajith Prasad.

The launch further strengthens UNOX India’s footprint in South India, making its advanced cooking solutions more accessible to chefs, hoteliers, restaurateurs, bakers, and food entrepreneurs across Kerala and nearby markets. UNOX’s product portfolio includes intelligent combi ovens, high-speed ovens, and convection ovens, all designed to deliver precision, consistency, energy efficiency, and smooth kitchen operations.

The inauguration ceremony opened with an address by the UNOX India leadership team and was graced by Chief Guest Chef George K. George, Executive Committee member of the South India Chef Association (SICA), who officially unveiled the new experience centre.

Speaking at the launch, Vivek Mishra, Team Leader Sales, India, UNOX, said:

“The launch of the UNOX Lounge in Kochi is a proud moment for us and a strong step forward in our India expansion journey. South India has always been a vibrant and progressive food market. With this new lounge, we aim to provide chefs and food entrepreneurs with a dedicated platform to experience and test our cooking solutions firsthand, direct access to cutting-edge professional cooking technology that enhances efficiency, consistency, and sustainability in commercial kitchens. Our goal is not just to supply equipment, but to build long-term partnerships and empower culinary businesses to scale with confidence.”

Adding to this, Chief Guest Chef George K. George shared:

“Kochi and the larger South Indian culinary community are evolving rapidly, with growing demand for precision, innovation, and global standards in kitchen operations. The UNOX Lounge will serve as an important platform for chefs to experience advanced technology firsthand, learn, experiment, and elevate their craft. This initiative will certainly contribute to raising professional kitchen standards in the region.”

The event brought together hospitality leaders, bakery entrepreneurs, culinary professionals, and industry experts for an immersive showcase of technology and cooking innovation. Guests experienced live cooking demonstrations by the UNOX Corporate Chef team, featuring bakery and multi-cuisine preparations using flagship equipment such as the CHEFTOP-X and the CHEFTOP MIND. Maps PLUS commercial combi ovens. The sessions highlighted the precision, performance, and intelligent automation that define UNOX’s modern kitchen solutions.

In the spirit of Ramadan, the celebrations concluded with a special Iftar dinner, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere while demonstrating the versatility and efficiency of UNOX equipment in real-time service conditions.

With the launch of the UNOX Lounge in Kochi, UNOX India continues to reinforce its commitment to the Indian foodservice industry by delivering innovative, sustainable, and high-performance cooking solutions that support the evolving needs of professional kitchens.

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