Tamara Leisure Experiences (TLE) has introduced Yazhi – The Grand Koodal in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, marking the hospitality group's first-ever Kalyana Mandapam and expanding its presence into India's growing wedding and celebrations market.

Designed as a premium destination for weddings, receptions, engagement ceremonies and social celebrations, Yazhi brings together large-format event spaces, dining facilities, accommodation and operational infrastructure under one roof.

The launch comes as India's wedding industry continues to expand and become increasingly organised, with families exploring a wider range of celebration formats ranging from intimate gatherings and heritage venues to luxury hotels, destination weddings and purpose-built wedding spaces.

Tamil Nadu remains an important wedding market, where the traditional Kalyana Mandapam continues to play a central role in celebrations. For TLE, the state provides an opportunity to bring its approach to design, service and guest experience into a category deeply rooted in local traditions.

Commenting on the launch, Samir MC, CEO, Tamara Leisure Experiences, said, "Shaped by plurality of taste and diversity in preferences, India's wedding economy is among the country's most resilient consumption stories. As the category becomes increasingly organised and families seek more seamless, professionally managed celebration experiences, we see a meaningful opportunity to bring our understanding of design, service and guest experience to this space."

He added that Tamil Nadu's traditions around temple weddings and Kalyana Mandapams made it a natural market for the concept, while Madurai's connection with celebration and devotion provided the setting for Yazhi.

The choice of Madurai also draws from the city's historical and cultural identity. Known in antiquity as Koodal, Madurai is home to the Meenakshi Amman Temple and its annual Chithirai festival, which features the traditional celebration of the divine wedding of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar.

The city's longstanding association with weddings, festivals and religious traditions provides a strong cultural context for a dedicated wedding destination.

Spread across 1.44 acres, Yazhi – The Grand Koodal has been designed to allow weddings and celebrations to take place within an integrated setting.

The centrepiece is a 10,500 sq. ft. main function hall, capable of seating more than 850 guests and accommodating upwards of 1,500 guests in a floating arrangement. The space is designed to accommodate large Tamil weddings and associated ceremonies.

A dedicated 6,300 sq. ft. dining facility can seat approximately 350 guests at a time, supported by a fully equipped commercial kitchen designed to manage large-scale food preparation and service during celebrations.

The venue also features five guest rooms, providing families with accommodation and preparation space during wedding events. Ample parking and an accessible location further support the practical requirements of large gatherings.

Together, these facilities position Yazhi as more than a conventional function venue, offering families an integrated setting where ceremonies, dining, accommodation and celebrations can take place with fewer logistical requirements.

The launch also represents another step in TLE's broader expansion strategy as the group explores new hospitality formats and markets while maintaining its philosophy of responsible and memorable hospitality.

About Tamara Leisure Experiences:

Founded by entrepreneur Shruti Shibulal, Tamara Leisure Experiences (TLE) operates with a philosophy centred on responsible and memorable hospitality, balancing people, planet and business objectives.

The group's portfolio includes Tamara Resorts, O by Tamara, Lilac Hotels, Raé by Tamara and Amal Tamara, spanning luxury nature retreats, business and leisure hotels, urban stays, faith-intelligent hospitality and Ayurvedic wellness.

TLE has grown to a portfolio exceeding 1,000 keys and is among the hospitality groups in India holding Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) certification. The group continues to expand across Indian and international markets while focusing on responsible tourism, environmental stewardship, community engagement and cultural storytelling.

This Raksha Bandhan, Le Méridien Ahmedabad is inviting families to come together for a festive dinner centred around good food, warm hospitality and the special bond between siblings.

The celebration is designed as a relaxed evening where families can take a break from their daily routines, share conversations and enjoy time with each other. The festive spread will bring together a selection of Indian and global favourites, offering something for different generations and tastes.

Adding to the evening will be live music, creating a warm and easy-going atmosphere while allowing families to enjoy their conversations and dining experience at their own pace.

The celebration goes beyond a festive meal, giving families a chance to reconnect, revisit familiar stories and celebrate relationships that remain an important part of their lives. With the warmth of Raksha Bandhan, a selection of favourites and contemporary hospitality, Le Méridien Ahmedabad brings families together around the table for an evening dedicated to togetherness and the enduring bond of siblinghood.

ITC Grand Chola, Chennai, has been named the Winner in the Net Zero Water Category at the COOL Conclave 3.0 – Decarbonisation Excellence Awards 2026. The recognition highlights the hotel’s continued efforts in water conservation, resource management and sustainable hospitality.

The award reflects ITC Grand Chola’s approach to making sustainability part of its daily operations while continuing to offer a luxury experience to guests. Its work in water conservation, reuse and efficient resource management has helped the hotel reduce its environmental impact through measurable practices. ITC Grand Chola holds LEED Platinum, LEED Zero Carbon and LEED Zero Water certifications, adding to its position as a leading example of sustainable luxury hospitality.

Beyond its sustainability initiatives, the Chennai hotel is also known for its strong connection with the heritage and culture of Southern India. Spread across eight acres, ITC Grand Chola takes inspiration from the Chola dynasty and the architectural traditions of the region.

Its design includes influences from the Brihadeeswara Temple, Gangaikondacholapuram Temple and Airavateswara Temple, creating a setting that brings together South Indian heritage, craftsmanship and luxury.

The hotel’s iconic Sangam lobby features carved balustrades, engraved stairways and detailed artistic elements, while the Grand Staircase showcases the symbolic Wheel of Life motif. These design elements give guests an experience that connects the hotel’s luxury offering with the region’s architectural legacy.

The latest recognition at the COOL Conclave 3.0 – Decarbonisation Excellence Awards adds to ITC Grand Chola’s sustainability achievements. With continued focus on environmental responsibility, resource efficiency and sustainable innovation, the hotel remains committed to shaping a more responsible approach to luxury hospitality in India and beyond.