The Kitchen by Chef Deepa is celebrating Mother’s Day with a specially curated Punjabi feast that brings the warmth of home-cooked meals to the table.

Founded by Chef Deepa Arora, the brand is known for its authentic, pure vegetarian Amritsari cuisine rooted in tradition and family recipes. This limited-edition Mother’s Day menu reflects that philosophy, offering dishes inspired by the comfort and nostalgia of meals prepared at home.

Designed as a heartfelt tribute, the menu features a range of classic flavours with a playful twist on naming, starting with Ta(Ma)tar Shorba and Amritsari Lassi. Starters include Malai Paneer Tikka, Matar Tikki, and Rajma Tikki, followed by signature mains such as Paneer Makhani, Dal Makhni, Mushroom Palak, and Aloo Matar.

The meal is complemented by Masala Pulao, Makhanwale Tawa Laccha Parathas, and accompaniments like Tomato Onion Raita, papad, and fresh salads. Guests can end on a sweet note with Mango Phirnee, bringing together seasonal flavours with traditional dessert elements.

Speaking about the offering, Chef Deepa Arora shared, “A mother’s love is often expressed through food. This menu is my tribute to every mother who has ever cooked with care and brought families together at the table.”

Operating as a cloud kitchen, The Kitchen by Chef Deepa continues to deliver authentic Amritsari flavours across Chennai, blending convenience with a strong emotional connection to food.

With its focus on authenticity, comfort, and emotion, the special menu offers a meaningful way to celebrate the occasion—bringing families together over flavours that feel familiar and heartfelt.

South Seas Distilleries has brought a significant moment for Indian spirits to the global stage with the introduction of Six Brothers Mahura in duty-free travel retail. This marks the first time a Mahua-based spirit has entered India’s travel retail space, offering international travellers a chance to experience a product deeply rooted in the country’s indigenous distilling traditions.

Six Brothers Mahura is crafted using the Mahua flower from the Madhuca longifolia tree, an ingredient that has long held cultural and economic value across India’s tribal regions. For centuries, these blossoms have been used to create traditional spirits, making Mahua an important part of local heritage. Often compared to agave in Mexico’s tequila story, the Mahua flower stands as a uniquely Indian element with the potential to gain global recognition.

Historically, Mahua distillation faced challenges during the colonial period due to strict excise laws and forest regulations, which limited access to raw materials and pushed this traditional practice into the background. Its entry into duty-free retail now signals a revival, bringing this age-old craft back into focus for a wider, international audience.

Alongside Six Brothers Mahura, the duty-free portfolio also includes selections from the Crazy Cock Indian Single Malt Whisky range. This collection features expressions such as Rare, Dhua and the Madhuca heritage edition, reflecting India’s growing presence in the global single malt segment. The Madhuca edition, in particular, is finished in mahua-seasoned casks, adding a subtle floral character that connects it back to its roots.

Speaking on the launch, Hamavand Chinoy, Chief Operating Officer, South Seas Distilleries, said:

“The entry of Mahua into duty-free retail is a cultural milestone for India. By bringing this heritage spirit to global travellers, we are showcasing an ingredient that has been cherished by tribal communities for centuries. It is also a proud moment to present Indian craftsmanship through our Six Brothers and Crazy Cock portfolios to audiences from around the world.”

Travel retail has long been a space where consumers discover premium and unique spirits from different regions. With Mahua now entering this channel, India’s traditional distillation heritage finds a place alongside globally recognised spirits, opening up new possibilities for awareness and appreciation.

Beyond its cultural importance, Mahua also plays a role in supporting rural livelihoods. The harvesting process is often community-driven, rooted in forest-based practices that promote sustainability and responsible sourcing. This adds another layer of value to the spirit, connecting it to both environmental and social impact.

As global consumers continue to explore new flavours and stories, Mahua’s floral notes and deep cultural roots position it as a distinctive offering in the premium spirits segment. The entry of Six Brothers Mahura into duty-free retail not only marks a first for the category but also highlights India’s evolving presence in the global beverage landscape.

As summer sets in, plans often take a backseat to spontaneity. Long evenings, unexpected gatherings, and relaxed settings are exactly why ready-to-drink beverages are becoming a go-to choice. They’re convenient, consistent, and designed for moments that don’t need preparation.

What’s changed in recent years is the variety. The category has moved beyond overly sweet coolers to include balanced, flavour-forward options from sparkling soju to crafted canned cocktails.

Here are a few easy summer drinks worth stocking this season:

1. So Good K-Bomb
Inspired by Korean drinking culture, this one is built for social settings. Light, fizzy, and easy to sip, it works well for casual gatherings where the energy builds naturally. It’s simple, fun, and ideal when you want something effortless for a group.

2. So Good Yuzu Lime
For a fresher profile, this variant stands out. Yuzu brings a layered citrus note—slightly floral and aromatic—while lime adds a crisp finish. It’s a great fit for daytime occasions like brunches or slow summer evenings.

3. Jimmy’s Cocktails Ready-to-Drink Range
This range offers familiar cocktail flavours without the need for mixing. Options like Mojito, Margarita, and Whisky Sour provide variety, making them practical for hosting when guests prefer different styles in one setting.

4. Bombay Sapphire Gin & Tonic Ready to Drink
A more refined option, this ready-to-drink version of the classic gin and tonic delivers subtle herbal and citrus notes with a balanced bitterness. It’s clean, not overly sweet, and suited for those who prefer a more classic profile.

5. Bacardi Breezer Flavoured Range
A long-time favourite, Breezers remain one of the easiest options to pick up. Fruity, approachable, and best served chilled, flavours like cranberry, orange, and lime continue to be popular for uncomplicated sipping.

Final Thought

Summer drinking doesn’t need to be complicated. The appeal of these beverages lies in how easily they fit into real moments—whether it’s a quiet evening or a last-minute gathering.

Keeping a mix of these on hand ensures you’re always ready—no prep, no fuss, just good drinks when you need them.