The National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) Kolkata Chapter brought together the city’s dynamic food and beverage community for its much-anticipated Annual Social 2025, held at Olterra, Park Street. The evening was a vibrant celebration of camaraderie, connection, and new beginnings, perfectly capturing the essence of Kolkata’s spirited hospitality scene.

Designed around the theme of togetherness and renewal, the event paid tribute to the chapter’s ongoing journey and the people shaping its future. The evening began with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the outgoing management committee, whose dedication and leadership over the past term strengthened NRAI Kolkata’s initiatives and advocacy efforts.

The spotlight then turned to the new management committee, marking a symbolic transition and ushering in a fresh chapter for the association — one focused on innovation, inclusivity, and continued collaboration within the restaurant industry.

Once the formal proceedings concluded, the evening transformed into a lively celebration. Celebrity DJ Akash Rohira set the tone with an energetic playlist that had guests on their feet. Restaurateurs, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals mingled over cocktails and a networking dinner, exchanging ideas and laughter in an atmosphere brimming with warmth and creativity.

Reflecting on the occasion, Abhimanyu Maheshwari, Mentor, NRAI Kolkata Chapter, shared, “It’s heartening to see the Kolkata Chapter continue to grow in strength and vision. The seamless blend of professionalism, passion, and friendship in our community sets a benchmark for others. The evening beautifully captured that spirit of collaboration and renewal.”

Adding his thoughts, Piyush Kankaria, Chapter Head, NRAI Kolkata, said, “This gathering is a celebration of both tradition and teamwork. It reflects the vibrant energy of Kolkata’s restaurant community and our shared commitment to strengthening this ecosystem. As we welcome the new committee, our focus remains on creating more opportunities for collaboration, learning, and growth.”

Representing over 450 restaurants and F&B brands, NRAI Kolkata continues to champion innovation, empower entrepreneurs, and build a strong foundation for the city’s evolving hospitality sector.

The Annual Social 2025 wasn’t just a night of celebration — it was a reminder of Kolkata’s unmatched sense of community, creativity, and connection. As the city’s restaurant fraternity looks ahead, the evening set a positive tone for another year of collaboration and culinary evolution in the City of Joy.

The much-awaited Holiday Expo, Visakhapatnam opened to an enthusiastic response, drawing travel enthusiasts, industry professionals, and tourism brands from across India and abroad. The two-day event, held from 7 – 8 November 2025 at RVR Conventions, Ram Nagar, Daspalla Hills, serves as a dynamic platform connecting travel trade and holiday seekers with exciting opportunities and destinations.

The event was inaugurated by Smt. Ekta Kabra of Rajasthan Tourism, who lit the ceremonial lamp, marking the formal opening of the expo. The inaugural function also witnessed the presence of distinguished guests, Mr. K. Vijaymohan, President of the Tours and Travels Association of Andhra (TTAA); Mr. Pavan Kartheek, President of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Andhra Pradesh; and Mr. Ravi Kumar, President of the Andhra Pradesh Event Management Association.

Speaking at the inauguration, Mr. Dilip Biswas, Director of Holiday Expo, said, “Visakhapatnam has emerged as one of India’s most promising tourism markets, with growing interest from both leisure and business travellers. Through Holiday Expo, we aim to provide a dynamic marketplace that inspires new travel ideas, partnerships, and experiences for visitors and the industry alike.”

The Holiday Expo features a wide spectrum of tourism products from destinations, hotels, and travel agencies to airlines, cruises, and travel technology providers. With active participation from state tourism boards and private exhibitors, the expo provides a valuable opportunity for travel enthusiasts to explore new destinations and for industry professionals to network and expand their business connections.

This year’s edition includes participation from Rajasthan Tourism, Jammu and Kashmir, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, along with leading travel operators and hospitality brands from across India and overseas. Visitors can explore exclusive offers on domestic and international holidays, special packages from airlines, resorts, and cruise companies, and attractive deals designed to encourage travel planning.

The Holiday Expo, Visakhapatnam will remain open for visitors until 8 November 2025, promising an engaging experience for all travel lovers. The next edition of the Holiday Expo is scheduled to take place in Coimbatore on 23 – 24 January 2026, continuing the event’s mission to promote travel, tourism, and business networking across key cities in India.

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced the signing of a new Taj hotel on East Coast Road (ECR) in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. This greenfield development further strengthens IHCL’s presence in the city, known for its dynamic mix of business and leisure travellers.

Spread across 13 acres of pristine beachfront land, the 151-key Taj ECR Chennai will offer spectacular views of the Bay of Bengal. Designed to seamlessly blend leisure and business, the hotel will feature an all-day dining restaurant, two specialty restaurants, and a bar. Guests can experience holistic rejuvenation at Taj’s signature J Wellness Circle, along with a state-of-the-art gym, swimming pool, and other recreational amenities.

The resort will also serve as a premier destination for large-scale events and conventions, offering two banquet venues of approximately 10,000 and 5,300 square feet, multiple meeting rooms, and expansive beachfront lawns.

Commenting on the signing, Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said,

“Chennai’s hospitality landscape is shaped by its strong corporate base, anchored by the automobile industry and a thriving IT ecosystem. Driven by its cultural richness and infrastructure, the city also benefits from a steady influx of leisure travellers and a growing MICE segment. The signing of this new Taj hotel on ECR is a strategic move to tap into this multi-dimensional demand. We are delighted to partner with MGM Healthcare for this project.”

Mr. M.K. Rajagopalan, MGM Healthcare, added,

“We are excited to collaborate with IHCL. This development will offer a world-class experience to guests in Chennai.”

A city celebrated for its rich culture, classical arts, and coastal beauty, Chennai offers visitors attractions like Mahabalipuram, Marina Beach, and Fort St. George. With this addition, IHCL now has 16 hotels in Chennai, including six under development, reinforcing its leadership in the region’s hospitality landscape.

About the Owner:

MGM Healthcare is a diversified venture led by Mr. M.K. Rajagopalan, operating hospitals in Chennai and Vizag, with additional projects underway in Chennai. He also serves as the Chancellor of a renowned university managing medical colleges in Puducherry and Chennai.