Diva Sins Crowned Champion at Kitty Su’s 14th KittyVersary Battle Royale

Diva Sins Crowned Champion at Kitty Su’s 14th KittyVersary Battle Royale

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 27, 2025

The chandeliers of The Crystal Ballroom at The LaLiT New Delhi sparkled brighter than ever as Kitty Su, India’s trailblazer in queer nightlife, celebrated its 14th KittyVersary with a landmark event, The Battle Royale. This one-of-a-kind drag extravaganza brought together some of the country’s most powerful performers in a night of glamour, artistry, and unapologetic self-expression.

Hosted by Betta Naan Stop with DJ Triangle Edge on the console, the evening was packed with show-stopping moments. The crowd cheered as international sensation DJ Kitty Glitter from Sydney set the floor on fire, while unforgettable performances from Beyoncé The Drag Queen and Seventeen Sins elevated the energy of the night. Adding star power to the stage was Roxy Versace, and the presence of Rani Ko-He-Nur as Guest of Honour made the evening even more iconic.

The competition featured a stellar lineup including Emperor Naaz, Mx Stallion, Dusky Dee, Shivkanya, Legendary Karma, Valentina, Diva Sins, and Krystal Koko. Each artist battled it out in a high-octane lip sync face-off, judged on artistry, stage presence, and authenticity.

It was Diva Sins from the Drag House of Sins who ultimately stole the spotlight. As the daughter of Seventeen Sins and granddaughter of the legendary Rani Ko-He-Nur, Diva Sins carried forward a powerful legacy, dazzling judges and audiences with her unmatched charisma and performance. Her coronation as the winner marked her arrival as India’s newest drag superstar.

The judging panel featured iconic queer voices Zeesh and Lush Monsoon, whose insights and lived experiences gave the contest its depth and authenticity. Meanwhile, VJ Viral Web alongside DJ Triangle Edge kept the ballroom alive with pulsating beats, turning the night into a celebration of art and identity.

Reflecting on the occasion, Keshav Suri, Executive Director of The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group, shared: “Kitty Su started as a nightclub but it became a refuge, a stage, and a movement. Every time I see an artist take the spotlight, I’m reminded of why we began: to create a space where queer people don’t just survive, they flourish. Diva Sins’ win tonight proves that when you bet on love, authenticity, and fierce talent, you don’t just win, you make history.”

Akshay Tyagi, Head of KSF and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group, added: “This event is a historic marker in the journey of queer India, proof that when we create platforms with intention and care, art blooms, and communities heal. Diva Sins embodies that spirit.”

Aashin Moitra, General Manager of Kitty Su, summed it up perfectly: “The Battle Royale is more than a drag competition; it’s a celebration of truth, transformation, and tremendous talent. Tonight’s coronation of Diva Sins cements Kitty Su’s legacy of being first, being fearless, and being fabulous.”

As Kitty Su turns 14, The Battle Royale stands as its boldest declaration yet, a tribute not just to a brand, but to a thriving culture that continues to champion love, inclusivity, and freedom through art.


The Residency Group of Hotels Crowned Overall Champions at SICA Culinary Competition

The Residency Group of Hotels Crowned Overall Champions at  SICA Culinary Competition

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 6, 2025

The Residency Group of Hotels has emerged as the Overall Champion, Best Hotel Team at the prestigious South India Chef’s Association (SICA) culinary competition held at Chennai Trade Centre, marking a momentous achievement in the region's most esteemed culinary event.

Competing across 22 diverse categories, team Residency (both culinary and service) showcased exceptional skill and creativity, securing a remarkable 8 Gold, 21 Silver and 30 Bronze medals. Categories ranged from Plated Appetizers, Regional Cuisine, Wedding Cakes, and Plated Desserts to Petit Fours, Innovative Biryani, Dress a Cake, Three-Course Set Dinner, Cocktails and Mocktails, Artistic Pastry Showpieces, and Butter or Margarine Carvings.

This is Asia’s biggest culinary competition spreading over 3 days and this time the participation response has been overwhelming with more than 3200 chefs including culinary students from 6 different countries participated out of which a total of 55 talented chefs represented The Residency Group, making it one of the largest participating hotel teams in the competition. The jury panel comprised of 22 judges invited from 9 countries.

This outstanding success is a testament to the leadership and mentorship of Chef Manoj and Chef John Milton, who spearheaded the team’s month-long preparation. Their hands-on training, deep expertise, and unwavering dedication played a crucial role in honing the participants’ skills, refining their techniques, and instilling the confidence needed to excel under pressure.

“This achievement is a reflection of the passion, discipline, and relentless pursuit of excellence that defines our culinary team,” said Ajeeth Janardhanan - Culinary Director at The Residency Group of Hotels. “From the first day of training to the final presentation at the competition, our chefs demonstrated not only technical brilliance but also creativity and teamwork. Winning the Overall Champion title at SICA is a proud moment for us, and a testament to the high standards we uphold across our kitchens.”

This landmark achievement further cements The Residency Group of Hotels as a leading force in South India’s hospitality and in culinary landscape.

About Residency Group:

Presenting world-class boutique hotels in South India, our hotels exude the cultural ethos of the land. Living up to its moniker, The Residency hotels in India offers unparallel and phenomenal spaces for a homely living experience. From elegant cities like Chennai and Coimbatore to charming towns like Karur, Puducherry and Rameswaram, The Residency promises beautifully curated experiences for its discerning guests.


Hyatt Signs The Landmark Kanpur as India’s Second JdV by Hyatt Hotel

Hyatt Signs The Landmark Kanpur as India’s Second JdV by Hyatt Hotel

By Hariharan U

Published on October 3, 2025

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced the signing of The Landmark Kanpur, which will soon join the JdV by Hyatt portfolio, becoming India’s second hotel under this lifestyle brand. The property, owned by Som Datt Landmark Hotels and Recreations Private Limited, is set to open in 2026.

Located in one of Kanpur’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, the hotel is being thoughtfully restored to reflect the JdV by Hyatt ethos while building on The Landmark’s rich legacy in the city. Once open, it will feature 170 guest rooms, a spa, four food and beverage outlets, and expansive event spaces, including a 7,200 sq. ft. lawn on the 21st floor, designed to serve both corporate travellers and social gatherings.

The JdV by Hyatt brand short for joie de vivre is known for its vibrant, independent hotels that capture the spirit of their neighbourhoods while offering heartfelt, joy-driven hospitality. With this signing, Hyatt continues to expand its presence in India’s fast-growing lifestyle and experience-driven hotel segment.

Speaking on the development, Dhruva Rathore, Vice President, Real Estate & Development for India & South West Asia, Hyatt, said, “We're thrilled to welcome The Landmark Kanpur to the JdV by Hyatt family. This association reflects our commitment to collaborating with exceptional local operators to deliver unique guest experiences in promising markets. Building on The Landmark's esteemed legacy in Kanpur, we're excited to take this property to new heights.”

Echoing the sentiment, Vikas Malhotra, Managing Director, Som Datt Landmark Hotels and Recreations Pvt. Ltd., added, “As Kanpur’s first and only five-star hotel, The Landmark has long been a pioneer in the city’s hospitality landscape. Collaborating with Hyatt and joining the JdV by Hyatt brand marks an exciting new chapter – one that brings global standards of service while retaining our deep local roots. We look forward to welcoming guests to an enhanced, reimagined experience.”

This signing underscores Hyatt’s strategy to strengthen its lifestyle portfolio in India, offering travellers distinctive stays that combine global quality with strong local character.


Sterling Opens Rampath Ayodhya Resort, Blending Devotion with Comfort

Sterling Opens Rampath Ayodhya Resort, Blending Devotion with Comfort

By Hariharan U

Published on October 3, 2025

Sterling Holiday Resorts has expanded its footprint into Uttar Pradesh with the launch of Sterling Rampath Ayodhya, its 67th property and 57th destination. Located just steps away from the ceremonial Ram Path, the hotel offers pilgrims, families, and culture-seekers a perfect retreat while visiting the Ram Mandir.

With this opening, Sterling marks its 11th spiritual location, reinforcing the brand’s vision of offering journeys that balance devotion with modern comfort. The move comes at a time when Ayodhya is emerging as one of India’s most significant spiritual destinations, attracting a rising wave of travellers seeking cultural immersion.

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The boutique hotel features 35 thoughtfully designed rooms, across Cocoon Double, Deluxe, and Classic categories, crafted to provide calm and comfort after temple visits. Dining is led by The Divine, a pure-veg restaurant serving sattvic-inspired meals, with special Jain options available on request reflecting the ethos of Ayodhya itself.

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Speaking about the launch, Vikram Lalvani, MD & CEO of Sterling Holiday Resorts, said, “Ayodhya is at the heart of India’s spiritual and cultural renaissance. Sterling Rampath Ayodhya is more than a hotel — it is a gateway to devotion and discovery, serving guests who arrive with faith, families, and a sense of cultural curiosity.”

Adding to this, Rishi Uppal, Director, Kalyan KK Hotels India Pvt Ltd., shared, “Ayodhya is emerging as one of India’s most important spiritual destinations. Our vision was to create a property that not only serves pilgrims with comfort and care but also honours the cultural fabric of the city. In Sterling, we found a partner who shares this vision.”

Sterling’s spiritual portfolio has been growing steadily, with recent openings in Guruvayur, Vellore, and Rudraprayag. The addition of Ayodhya strengthens the company’s mission to bring together tradition, devotion, and hospitality across sacred destinations in India.

About Sterling Holiday Resorts Ltd.

Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited is among India’s leading hospitality brands, with 64 resorts, hotels, and retreats across 55 unique destinations, offering over 3,400 rooms. Its properties cover hills, beaches, jungles, pilgrimage sites, heritage towns, and drive-to locations. The company caters to leisure travellers, MICE, weddings, and group events. Sterling is a 100% independently managed subsidiary of Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., part of Fairfax Financial Holdings Limited.

For bookings and more information, visit www.sterlingholidays.com

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