Dr. Suresh Itapu Elected as Chairman of Soy Food Promotion & Welfare Association (SFPWA), Outlines Bold Initiatives for Industry Growth

Dr. Suresh Itapu Elected as Chairman of Soy Food Promotion & Welfare Association (SFPWA), Outlines Bold Initiatives for Industry Growth

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 15, 2024

The Soy Food Promotion and Welfare Association (SFPWA) has announced the election of Dr. Suresh Itapu as the new Chairman during its Annual General Meeting (AGM). This significant leadership change comes as SFPWA, representing over 3,000 small, medium, and large-scale soybean food processing units across India, prepares to tackle both ongoing challenges and new opportunities in the industry.

The newly elected leadership team for the next two years includes Mr. Girish Matlani, Founder Chairman of SFPWA and Managing Director of Sonic Biochem Extractions Ltd., and Mr. Praneet Mutha, Director of Vippy Industries Ltd., as patrons. Joining Dr. Itapu in this leadership are Dr. Ratan Sharma as Secretary and Mr. Jatin Girdhar from Savour India Pvt. Ltd. as Treasurer. Mr. Raj Kapoor has been appointed as the National Convener, with an executive team including Mr. Sarat Kumar from Riddhi Seedhi Marketing, Mr. Nishith Patel, Mr. Ravi S from R.K Soya, Mr. Swapnil Gandhi from Vippy Soya, and Mr. Girish Laad from Sonic Biochem. Special Invitees include Mr. Subbaro Bulusu from Bliss Foods and a representative from Fytomax, with Mr. Sumit Agarwal serving as Ex-Officio Member.

In his acceptance speech, Dr. Itapu outlined a forward-thinking vision for SFPWA. "The soy industry in India has experienced remarkable growth, transforming from a niche market into one of the country’s major agricultural sectors. With a predominantly vegetarian population, soybeans have become an essential and affordable source of protein," he remarked.

The election of Dr. Itapu is a strategic move, given his extensive experience and expertise. Holding a Ph.D. in Food Science and Technology, Dr. Itapu has worked globally, including at Purdue University, USA, and as Global Technical Director for ASA-International Marketing. He has played a crucial role in promoting soy foods across Asia, with efforts that have significantly increased soy consumption in India.

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In his new role, Dr. Itapu has ambitious plans to lead the SFPWA in addressing both immediate and long-term industry needs. Among his top priorities is enhancing collaboration among members, organizing webinars, and launching a "soy conclave" to discuss pressing industry topics. These initiatives will focus on marketing strategies, cost management, and improving the overall quality of soy products. Additionally, Dr. Itapu envisions launching a dedicated e-commerce platform exclusively for SFPWA members, which will boost visibility and sales of soy products.

Dr. Itapu also underscored the importance of sustainability in the future of the soy industry. He intends to foster research and development to help members adopt eco-friendly practices, enhancing both the quality of soy products and their environmental impact. "The future of the soy food industry is bright," he said, "and we must focus on innovation and sustainability to ensure long-term success."

Secretary Dr. Ratan Sharma expressed confidence in Dr. Itapu’s leadership, stating, "His experience will be instrumental in promoting soy food products and addressing the challenges our industry faces. We are excited to work together to further the growth of the sector."

Dr. Itapu emphasized the critical role that SFPWA will continue to play in advocating for the interests of soy food manufacturers. As the voice of the soy industry in India, SFPWA will maintain close engagement with policymakers to ensure favorable regulations, trade opportunities, and industry growth. Dr. Itapu concluded, "Our strength lies in our unity. By working together, we can navigate the challenges ahead and ensure a prosperous future for the soy food industry."

Under his leadership, SFPWA is poised to embark on a transformative journey, with a renewed focus on innovation, sustainability, and industry collaboration.


Brigade Hospitality Relaunches The Baking Company with a Fresh, Contemporary Vision

Brigade Hospitality Relaunches The Baking Company with a Fresh, Contemporary Vision

By Hariharan U

Published on April 6, 2026

Brigade Hospitality has relaunched its flagship bakery brand, The Baking Company (TBC), introducing a refreshed concept tailored for today’s fast-paced, quality-conscious urban consumers.

Currently operating from two key locations - World Trade Center Bengaluru and The Woodrose Club JP Nagar — the brand continues to focus on premium quality and freshly baked offerings within high-end commercial and lifestyle spaces.

Strengthening its footprint further, The Baking Company is set to open its third outlet in late April at Brigade Tech Gardens Whitefield, with plans to launch three additional outlets across Bengaluru within the year. This expansion reflects the brand’s strategic growth approach in one of India’s most dynamic urban markets.

At the core of this growth is a central kitchen model supported by a hub-and-spoke distribution system, ensuring consistency, operational efficiency, and freshness across all outlets. This structured approach enables the brand to scale while maintaining quality standards.

Commenting on the relaunch, Gurmeet Singh said, “The Baking Company holds a special place in our portfolio, and this relaunch reflects our effort to reimagine the brand for today’s fast-paced, quality-conscious consumer. With a strong focus on freshness, convenience, and design, we aim to create a bakery experience that fits seamlessly into everyday urban life.”

The refreshed menu features an extensive range of bite-sized offerings, including sandwiches, sliders, doughnuts, macarons, tartlets, and gourmet cakes, along with a curated selection of beverages. The brand is also expanding its focus on healthier options, incorporating fresh ingredients and select superfoods to align with evolving consumer preferences.

By combining Brigade Hospitality’s industry expertise with a contemporary product approach, the relaunch positions The Baking Company as a scalable and modern bakery concept. The move marks a new phase for the brand as it aims to become a preferred destination for premium bakery experiences in urban India.


Punjab Grill Relaunches in Chennai with a Refined Dining Experience

Punjab Grill Relaunches in Chennai with a Refined Dining Experience

By Hariharan U

Published on April 6, 2026

Punjab Grill has unveiled its refreshed avatar in the city with a relaunch at Phoenix Marketcity Chennai, marking a new chapter in its culinary journey.

Previously located on the ground floor, the restaurant now reopens on the first floor with a renewed concept designed to offer a more immersive and contemporary dining experience. The relaunch reflects a strategic move by Lite Bite Foods to strengthen its presence in Chennai while aligning with evolving consumer expectations.

The new space brings together timeless elegance and modern design sensibilities, creating an ambience that feels both familiar and refreshed. With enhanced interiors, a reimagined layout, and a sharper focus on guest experience, the restaurant aims to elevate indulgent North Indian dining in the city.

Staying true to its roots, Punjab Grill continues to celebrate the rich culinary heritage of undivided Punjab. The menu retains its focus on robust flavours, time-honoured recipes, and signature dishes, while introducing a renewed emphasis on presentation, innovation, and storytelling.

Commenting on the relaunch, Rohit Aggarwal, Founder and Managing Director, Lite Bite Foods, said, “Chennai has always been a significant market for us, and Phoenix Mall holds a special place in our journey. With this relaunch, we wanted to go beyond just a new location within the mall. We've reimagined the entire dining experience. From the ambiance to the menu curation, every element has been thoughtfully elevated to resonate with today’s diners while staying true to our rich culinary legacy.”

The reopening signals more than just a change in location within the mall—it reflects the brand’s intent to offer a more refined and memorable dining journey. With its updated identity, Punjab Grill invites Chennai’s diners to rediscover its iconic offerings in a setting that blends tradition with contemporary appeal.


Sanjay Dutt Unveils Alta Stella, A Sky-High Restro-Bar in Andheri

Sanjay Dutt Unveils Alta Stella, A Sky-High Restro-Bar in Andheri

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 5, 2026

Sanjay Dutt has introduced Alta Stella, a new rooftop restro-bar in Andheri West that brings a fresh perspective to Mumbai’s nightlife scene. Located 30 floors above the city, the space offers a setting where the pace slows down, allowing guests to ease into the evening rather than rush through it.

Meaning “closest to the star,” Alta Stella is built around an idea that goes beyond just being a rooftop destination. The experience here changes with time. Afternoons are calm and relaxed, perfect for long conversations, while evenings gradually build in energy with warmer lighting and music that evolves naturally with the mood.

Spread across 12,000 sq. ft. and designed to host up to 250 guests, the space balances openness with a sense of comfort. The design features layered textures, sculpted lighting, and subtle celestial elements that tie the theme together. One of its most striking features is the mirrored rooftop, which reflects the night sky and creates a unique visual effect where the stars seem to surround you.

Sharing his thoughts, Sanjay Dutt said, "Being a celebrity comes with a lot of noise and chaos around you, so I've learned to appreciate spaces that feel calm and real. Alta Stella has that feeling. You're up close to the sky, you see the stars above, and somehow everything slows down - aur phir bas dil karta hai thoda aur ruk jaayein. There's a quiet strength here, and that's what makes the place special for me."

The concept is led by founder Abhimanyu Jakhar, who envisioned the space as more than just a nightlife spot. "Alta Stella was born from a very personal belief that when you place yourself under the stars, you naturally begin to look inward. The idea of being 'closest to the star' isn't about height or grandeur for us; it's about creating a space where people feel aligned with themselves. We wanted to design an experience guided by the universe, through constellations, light, and atmosphere, where the sky becomes part of the journey. The space is meant to move with you, slowly and intuitively, allowing moments of reflection before the energy builds. Every night feels different, because every mood and every person brings something new. Alta Stella isn't about spectacle; it's about presence, and the quiet connection you feel when you look up and feel exactly where you're meant to be."

In the kitchen, Chef Manoranjan presents a menu that blends global influences with Indian flavours. The dishes are familiar yet creatively reworked, offering a balance between comfort and newness. Highlights include Beetroot & Whipped Feta Croquettes, Tangra Chicken Pops, and Podi Butter Prawns, along with options like Chicken Thecha Kulcha and Chicken Parmesan Milanese. Desserts such as the Chenna Pod Cheesecake round off the experience with a unique twist.

Behind the bar, Mixologist Sidharth has curated a cocktail menu inspired by zodiac signs and celestial themes. Each drink is crafted to reflect a mood or personality, with options like Enki (Aquarius), Jasper (Aries), Chimera (Leo), Themis (Libra), and Ebisu (Pisces), making the bar experience both personal and expressive.

Blending thoughtful design, curated food and drinks, and a setting that evolves through the evening, Alta Stella positions itself as a distinctive addition to Mumbai’s hospitality landscape. It’s a space that encourages guests to slow down, connect, and enjoy moments that unfold naturally.

Alta Stella is located at 30th Floor, Parinee I, Shah Industrial Estate, Veera Desai Area, Andheri West, Mumbai 400053, and is open from 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM.

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