Subuthi Spa at Sterling Kodai Lake and Sterling Kodai Valley has introduced Kodai Megha Sparsha, an exclusive wellness therapy inspired by the natural surroundings and cool climate of Kodaikanal. The destination-led ritual combines the aromatic freshness of Nilgiri Eucalyptus with the rich sensory appeal of cocoa to offer guests a relaxing spa experience.

Meaning ‘the gentle touch of the clouds’, Megha Sparsha draws inspiration from Kodaikanal’s mist-covered hills, lush greenery and refreshing mountain climate. The therapy brings the character of the Nilgiri hills into the spa through aromas, textures and mindful relaxation, allowing guests to experience the destination beyond its scenic beauty.

The treatment combines the invigorating aromatic notes of Nilgiri Eucalyptus with the warm and comforting qualities of cocoa. While eucalyptus adds a fresh character to the experience, cocoa brings a rich, indulgent touch. Together, these ingredients create a sensory wellness experience delivered by trained spa therapists.

Kodai Megha Sparsha is part of Subuthi’s Localised Therapy concept, which uses natural ingredients and elements associated with individual destinations to create region-inspired wellness experiences. Beyond conventional spa treatments, the concept aims to help guests connect more closely with the places they visit through locally inspired therapies.

Speaking about the introduction, Anupam Dutta, Chief Marketing Officer, Sterling Holiday Resorts Ltd (SHRL), said, “At Sterling, we believe that the most memorable holiday experiences are those that create a meaningful connection with the destination. Through Subuthi’s Localised Therapy concept, we aim to bring the unique character of each location into our wellness offerings, to create an experience that allows guests to connect with the destination through their senses. It is a big step towards making wellness an integral part of the overall holiday experience”

With travellers increasingly looking for experiences that offer a deeper connection with their destinations, the new therapy adds another dimension to the wellness offerings at Sterling’s Kodaikanal properties. Guests staying at Sterling Kodai Lake and Sterling Kodai Valley can include this specially curated ritual as part of their holiday.

Following its philosophy of ‘Relax. Reset. Rejuvenate.’, Subuthi Spa continues to develop wellness experiences that help guests unwind, reconnect and discover the distinctive character of each destination. Kodai Megha Sparsha is now available at Subuthi Spa, bringing a wellness experience inspired by the misty hills of Kodaikanal.

India's energy drinks market is facing increased regulatory scrutiny after the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) accused PepsiCo and Monster Beverage of misleading consumers by marketing their high-caffeine beverages under the label 'energy drink'. According to court filings reviewed by Reuters, the regulator has argued that India has never established a formal standard for an energy drink category and that using the term could amount to misbranding.

The dispute forms part of India's wider food safety and labelling crackdown. PepsiCo, which introduced Sting in India in 2017, and Monster Beverage have separately challenged FSSAI's June decision restricting the use of the term 'energy drink'. Both companies have argued that the regulator acted without prior warning or giving them an opportunity to be heard.

In court filings dated October 28, FSSAI sought dismissal of the challenges, stating, "Purposely in order to dupe the consumers, a product is being marketed as a 'Energy Drink'."

The Delhi High Court has allowed companies to sell their existing stock carrying the 'energy drink' label, but has not permitted the use of the wording on new stock. The regulator's position is that the issue concerns product naming, labelling and advertising claims rather than an outright ban on caffeinated beverages.

What Is FSSAI Objecting To?

FSSAI maintains that no dedicated standard has been notified for an 'energy drink' category under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the related regulations. It argues that using the term may create an impression that the product offers specific functional or health benefits that are not recognised under the existing framework.

The regulator has also raised concerns about claims such as 'vitalises body and mind', 'enhances focus', 'boosts energy levels' and 'helps in general weakness'. Such statements may fall under functional or therapeutic claims that food products cannot make unless they are specifically permitted and supported by the applicable regulations.

The reported direction issued on June 30 asked PepsiCo to stop using 'energy' as a product name or descriptor. Labels, marketing material and advertisements carrying the term were reportedly required to be withdrawn or changed within 90 days.

However, the action does not mean that caffeine-based beverages are prohibited in India. The focus is on how these products are classified, described and promoted to consumers.

Why Consumer Awareness Matters

The dispute has also brought attention to how consumers understand and consume beverages marketed for energy. Products containing caffeine, sugar and other ingredients such as taurine should not automatically be viewed as healthy drinks or substitutes for regular hydration.

Frequent consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages can contribute to excess calorie intake, weight gain and tooth decay, while also being associated with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes. A typical can of a sugary drink may contain around 40 grams of free sugar, equivalent to approximately 10 teaspoons.

For consumers, moderation remains important. Water should be the first choice for everyday hydration, while plain milk, unsweetened tea or coffee and sparkling water can also be part of regular beverage choices. Soft drinks and highly caffeinated beverages are better treated as occasional choices rather than daily essentials. Even zero-sugar alternatives should not automatically be considered everyday wellness drinks.

India's ICMR-NIN Dietary Guidelines, 2024, recommend limiting free sugar and avoiding frequent consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages. The broader message is to understand what a beverage contains rather than relying only on its marketing or product name.

The Need for Clearer Standards and Labelling

The ongoing dispute highlights the need for a clear and consistent regulatory framework for high-caffeine beverages. FSSAI could consider notifying a dedicated standard for energy drinks or clearly retaining the existing caffeinated beverage classification, with unambiguous definitions, permitted ingredients, caffeine limits and packaging requirements.

A practical framework could include clear caffeine limits, serving-size guidance and detailed ingredient disclosure. The existing caffeine range for caffeinated beverages is 145–300 mg per litre. Regulations could also make caffeine content easier to understand by requiring brands to display the amount per serving and per container, rather than relying only on information per litre.

Labels should clearly disclose caffeine, total sugar, sweeteners, taurine, vitamins, botanical extracts and other stimulant-like ingredients. Front-of-pack information could also highlight high caffeine content and advise consumers against combining these products with alcohol or other caffeine sources.

Warnings for children, pregnant or lactating women and caffeine-sensitive individuals should be clearly visible. The existing framework includes a daily-intake statement of no more than 500 ml and specific consumer warnings. Stronger visibility and awareness could help consumers make informed choices.

Responsible Advertising and Brand Communication

The issue extends beyond packaging to advertising and brand positioning. Under FSSAI's Advertising and Claims Regulations, food-related claims must be truthful, clear, non-misleading and supported by appropriate evidence.

Brands should avoid unsupported statements suggesting that a beverage improves concentration, increases stamina, addresses weakness or delivers specific mental and physical benefits. The presence of vitamins, taurine or other ingredients should not be used to create an impression that a product is suitable for daily wellness.

The same standards should apply across television advertisements, packaging, e-commerce platforms, quick-commerce listings, social media campaigns and influencer promotions. Sports and gaming partnerships should also avoid suggesting that consuming such beverages is necessary for athletic performance or success.

Clear caffeine and sugar information, responsible age-related messaging and warnings against excessive consumption should form part of brand communication.

Consistent Enforcement and Consumer Protection

The regulatory approach also needs to be consistent across manufacturers and sales channels. Regular label audits, batch-level testing of caffeine and declared ingredients, transparent compliance timelines and clear guidance for manufacturers could help improve enforcement.

Consumer awareness campaigns by FSSAI and state food-safety departments can further explain why energy drinks should not be treated as sports or hydration drinks, why excessive caffeine consumption can affect sleep and why combining these products with alcohol should be avoided.

The industry has also called for stakeholder consultation, risk assessment and predictable implementation of regulatory changes. A transparent process could reduce uncertainty for manufacturers while allowing the regulator to address misleading claims and protect consumers.

Ultimately, the issue is not simply about removing the words 'energy drink' from a label. It is about ensuring that product names, packaging and advertisements accurately communicate what consumers are purchasing. As India's market for these beverages continues to grow, responsible branding, clear regulations and informed consumption will be important in balancing business interests with public health.

Bengaluru's dining and nightlife scene welcomes Boston Pub, a new destination in Rajarajeshwari Nagar (RR Nagar). Spread across approximately 12,000 sq. ft. and five floors, the venue brings together vintage-inspired interiors, global cuisine, signature cocktails, music and entertainment.

Located on 80 Feet Road, Kempegowda, RR Nagar, Boston has been designed as more than a conventional pub. Its five-floor concept offers different settings for guests, whether they want to enjoy a meal, catch up with friends, celebrate an occasion or spend an evening on the dance floor.

Designed by Vinay Agnelo F. D'Almeida, the interiors combine vintage aesthetics, warm textures and contemporary elements. The basement features a dance floor, while the indoor dining and pub spaces provide settings for relaxed gatherings. The rooftop seating adds another option for guests looking to unwind.

With a seating capacity of approximately 400 guests, Boston can accommodate casual outings, group gatherings, birthdays, corporate events and private celebrations. DJ performances, live music and specially curated events will also form part of its entertainment programme.

The food menu brings together contemporary global cuisine, comfort food and sharing plates suited to a pub setting. It features Asian and Chinese favourites, Korean-inspired dishes, Indian appetisers, Italian-style pizzas and Continental selections. Some of the dishes that have received positive customer feedback include Korean Chicken Bao, Classic Chicken Tikka, Chilli Garlic Chicken Noodles, Wild Mushroom Dumplings and Fish Fingers. The pizza selection offers familiar favourites, while Tres Leches Cake and New York Cheesecake provide dessert options. The menu also includes vegetarian dishes for guests with different preferences.

The beverage programme features signature cocktails and non-alcoholic creations. Signature cocktails include Mushroom & Oak, Titaura, Crimson Passion, Golden Orchard, The Tea Garden, Boston Bloom, Baklava Old Fashioned, Bitter Bloom, Spiked Milkshake, Midnight Malt and Berry & Brine. The non-alcoholic selection features Ruby Fizz, Baklava Brew, Tropical Herb Garden, Heatwave, Indigo Tropica, Paradise and Garden Mist.

Boston also recommends pairing its craft beer selection with dishes such as Classic Chicken Tikka, Nimboo Chicken Tikka and Nimbu Murgh Tikka. The smoky and tangy flavours of these preparations complement the beer selection.

Founded by Subbaiah, Preetham, Hem and Ashwin, Boston draws inspiration from vintage culture while embracing contemporary nightlife. The brand's vision focuses on character, experience, culture and lifestyle, aiming to create a destination that goes beyond food and beverages.

Sharing the idea behind the concept, the founding team said, "Boston was envisioned as more than just another place to eat, drink and party. We wanted to create a destination where every visit tells a different story. With five floors, each offering its own character and experience, Boston brings together the charm of a bygone era and the excitement of contemporary nightlife. Our vision is to build a space where people connect, celebrate and create memories. Ultimately, we want Boston to be remembered not just for the place it is, but for how it makes people feel."

With its five-floor layout, varied dining options and entertainment spaces, Boston aims to establish itself as a social and nightlife destination in Bengaluru's RR Nagar.