HRAWI Celebrated Platinum Jubilee at 20th Regional Convention, Honours Hospitality Pioneers

HRAWI Celebrated Platinum Jubilee at 20th Regional Convention, Honours Hospitality Pioneers

By Hariharan U

Published on October 22, 2025

The Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI commemorated its Platinum Jubilee with a landmark awards ceremony at its 20th Regional Convention, celebrating 75 years of leadership and service to the hospitality industry.

The evening was graced by actor Boman Irani, who felicitated all past presidents of HRAWI for their enduring contributions. Dr Shashi Tharoor, Member of Parliament and Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, presented Lifetime Achievement Awards to Dr Ajit B Kerkar, President of Honour, and Vivek Nair, Member of Honour, recognising their exceptional contributions to Indian hospitality. As Dr Kerkar was unable to attend, Jimmy Shaw, President of HRAWI, accepted the award on his behalf.

Seventy-five years is a remarkable journey. Each of these leaders has carried forward the legacy of Indian hospitality, setting benchmarks of excellence and resilience. It is a privilege to celebrate their contributions to the industry and to the Association,” said Boman Irani, reflecting on his early career as a waiter at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai.

Dr Shashi Tharoor, delivering the keynote address, lauded HRAWI’s legacy and emphasised the wider role of hospitality in national development. Describing tourism and hospitality as “mirrors of a nation’s soul,” he highlighted the need to advance India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision through three pillars: Image, Infrastructure, and Immigration.

“This evening isn’t just about honouring the leaders and pioneers who have shaped our Association; it’s about celebrating seventy-five years of an industry that has built careers, created opportunities, and welcomed the world with open arms,” said Jimmy Shaw.

Founded under the leadership of the late JRD Tata, HRAWI has grown into one of India’s most influential voices for the hospitality sector. The Platinum Jubilee ceremony honoured stalwarts including the late AP Sabavala, Rustom Masani, DRD Tata, Maneck S Shaw, and many others who have contributed to shaping Western India’s hotel and restaurant landscape.

Over the decades, HRAWI has played a defining role in policy advocacy, skill development, sustainability initiatives, and industry growth, serving stakeholders across Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa, and the Union Territories of Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu. The Platinum Jubilee celebration not only paid tribute to its illustrious past but also reaffirmed HRAWI’s commitment to shaping the future of Indian hospitality.

If you want, I can also draft a shorter version optimized for social media or a press release snippet to highlight the awards and key personalities from the event.


Colorful Statements for the Season of Joy: The Curated Holi Edit by Kalyan Jewellers

Colorful Statements for the Season of Joy: The Curated Holi Edit by Kalyan Jewellers

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 2, 2026

This Holi, Kalyan Jewellers brings the festival’s joyful energy to life with a thoughtfully curated edit of colourful and statement-making jewellery. Designed to reflect the exuberance of the season, the collection showcases a lively mix of multicoloured gemstones and detailed gold craftsmanship, creating pieces that feel festive, elegant, and timeless.

Rooted in tradition and refreshed with contemporary appeal, each design captures the essence of Holi through colour, form, and fine detailing. From antique gold sets rich in heritage to diamond pieces with refined sparkle, the edit offers versatile options for festive gatherings, intimate celebrations, and everything in between. Whether paired with classic whites, soft pastels, or rich silks, these creations add a radiant finishing touch to any Holi look.

Vibrant Traditions: The Multi-Hued Antique Set

Celebrate the spirit of Holi with this antique gold set adorned with festive emerald greens, royal purples, and ruby reds that mirror the playful hues of gulal. Intricate gold detailing and a serene teardrop turquoise centerpiece add depth and balance to the design. Ideal for festive occasions, the set pairs beautifully with a classic white kurta or a soft pastel saree, allowing the colours to stand out with ease.

Kaleidoscope of Joy: The Multi-Stone Antique Set

This antique gold set brings together a vivid mix of purple, blue, and earthy-toned gemstones, capturing the exuberance of the season. A striking green focal stone sits at the centre, framed by ornate gold work and subtle pearl accents. Rich in character and festive charm, the piece complements ivory or pastel ensembles, letting its dynamic tones glow naturally.

Festive Spectrum: The Multicolour Heritage Set

Inspired by the playful colours of Holi, this heritage-style antique set features a bold blend of emerald, ruby, and turquoise hues. Detailed peacock motifs and delicate seed pearl accents lend the design a traditional yet lively appeal. Perfect for festive gatherings, it pairs effortlessly with a cream silk saree or a soft pastel outfit.

Floral Radiance: The Emerald and Ruby Diamond Set

For those who prefer refined sparkle, this diamond set offers a graceful take on festive dressing. Intricate floral motifs studded with diamonds are highlighted by pear-shaped emeralds and vibrant ruby accents, bringing together fresh greens and festive pinks. Elegant and celebratory, the set works beautifully with a rich silk saree or a contemporary pastel ensemble.

Vibrant Elegance: The Multicoloured Long Necklace Set

This antique long necklace set makes a bold festive statement with rich green and calming blue gemstones set in ornate antique gold. Finished with delicate seed pearls, the design balances grandeur with timeless charm. Ideal for Holi celebrations, it pairs well with a white Anarkali or a deep-toned saree for a look that feels regal yet festive.

With its Curated Holi Edit, Kalyan Jewellers offers jewellery that celebrates colour, craftsmanship, and joy, making every festive moment feel a little more special.


Taste of Brasil 2026 Launches in India to Spotlight Premium Brazilian Foods

Taste of Brasil 2026 Launches in India to Spotlight Premium Brazilian Foods

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 28, 2026

Taste of Brasil 2026, an international food and culinary initiative led by ApexBrasil, officially made its India debut on 18 February 2026 in New Delhi. The initiative will also be introduced in Mumbai on 23 February 2026, bringing Brazil’s premium food offerings closer to India’s rapidly expanding health and wellness market.

The New Delhi launch was attended by key dignitaries including Jorge Viana, President of ApexBrasil; Paulo Teixeira, Honourable Minister of Rural Development and Family Farming of Brazil; and Marcio Elias, Honourable Vice Minister of Development, Industry, Commerce and Services of Brazil. The event also saw participation from industry stakeholders, importers, distributors, retailers, chefs, and members of the media.

Taste of Brasil 2026 focuses on building awareness, encouraging product trials, and strengthening trade and consumer engagement through immersive retail experiences and culinary storytelling. The campaign aims to create a deeper connection between Brazilian producers and Indian consumers by showcasing the quality, versatility, and story behind Brazilian food products.

Brazil, known for its vast biodiversity and fertile landscapes, produces some of the world’s most nutritious nuts, fruits, and superfoods. From the Amazon rainforest to tropical orchards, Brazilian foods are recognised for their taste, nutritional value, and suitability for modern, health-focused lifestyles.

The initiative highlights a carefully selected range of Brazilian products including Brazil Nuts, Brazil Nut Milk, Açaí Pulp, Açaí Powder, Tahiti Limes, and Exotic Frozen plant-based meals. These products reflect Brazil’s leadership in biodiversity-driven agriculture and its strong reputation for quality, safety, and sustainability on the global stage.

Ingredients such as Brazil nuts and açaí have gained international popularity for their health benefits and flexibility across cuisines. With Indian consumers increasingly leaning towards plant-based nutrition, functional foods, and global flavours, Brazilian products align naturally with evolving food preferences in the country.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Jorge Viana said, “India represents a dynamic and fast-growing market with a sophisticated and increasingly health-conscious consumer base. Through Taste of Brasil 2026, we are proud to present the diversity, quality, and sustainability of Brazilian food products. This initiative is not only about promoting exports; it is about building long-term partnerships, promoting sustainability and innovation in food, and strengthening the bridge between Brazilian producers and Indian consumers.”

Adding to this, José Mauro da Fonseca Costa Couto, Consul General of Brazil in Mumbai, remarked, “Brazil and India share strong diplomatic and economic relations rooted in mutual respect and cooperation. The launch of Taste of Brasil 2026 in both New Delhi and Mumbai reflects our commitment to deepening agri-food trade and enhancing people-to-people connections through culinary exchange. We see tremendous potential for collaboration across retail, hospitality, and food processing sectors.”

Looking ahead, ApexBrasil plans to further strengthen trade ties between Brazil and India by expanding market access, increasing retail presence, and encouraging culinary innovation. With rising demand for sustainable, plant-based, and globally inspired foods, Taste of Brasil 2026 lays the groundwork for long-term partnerships and a stronger Brazilian food presence in India.


UNOX India Expands to Kochi with the Launch of the UNOX Lounge

UNOX India Expands to Kochi with the Launch of the UNOX Lounge

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 28, 2026

UNOX, a leading Italian manufacturer of professional cooking equipment trusted by chefs and foodservice operators across more than 130 countries, marked an important step in its India expansion with the launch of the UNOX Lounge Kochi on February 25, 2026. The new lounge was inaugurated at Rising Loaf Academy of Baking and Pastry Arts, Palarivattom, Kochi, in collaboration with Savvy Kitchen Equipment, represented by its Partner, Mr. Ajith Prasad.

The launch further strengthens UNOX India’s footprint in South India, making its advanced cooking solutions more accessible to chefs, hoteliers, restaurateurs, bakers, and food entrepreneurs across Kerala and nearby markets. UNOX’s product portfolio includes intelligent combi ovens, high-speed ovens, and convection ovens, all designed to deliver precision, consistency, energy efficiency, and smooth kitchen operations.

The inauguration ceremony opened with an address by the UNOX India leadership team and was graced by Chief Guest Chef George K. George, Executive Committee member of the South India Chef Association (SICA), who officially unveiled the new experience centre.

Speaking at the launch, Vivek Mishra, Team Leader Sales, India, UNOX, said:

“The launch of the UNOX Lounge in Kochi is a proud moment for us and a strong step forward in our India expansion journey. South India has always been a vibrant and progressive food market. With this new lounge, we aim to provide chefs and food entrepreneurs with a dedicated platform to experience and test our cooking solutions firsthand, direct access to cutting-edge professional cooking technology that enhances efficiency, consistency, and sustainability in commercial kitchens. Our goal is not just to supply equipment, but to build long-term partnerships and empower culinary businesses to scale with confidence.”

Adding to this, Chief Guest Chef George K. George shared:

“Kochi and the larger South Indian culinary community are evolving rapidly, with growing demand for precision, innovation, and global standards in kitchen operations. The UNOX Lounge will serve as an important platform for chefs to experience advanced technology firsthand, learn, experiment, and elevate their craft. This initiative will certainly contribute to raising professional kitchen standards in the region.”

The event brought together hospitality leaders, bakery entrepreneurs, culinary professionals, and industry experts for an immersive showcase of technology and cooking innovation. Guests experienced live cooking demonstrations by the UNOX Corporate Chef team, featuring bakery and multi-cuisine preparations using flagship equipment such as the CHEFTOP-X and the CHEFTOP MIND. Maps PLUS commercial combi ovens. The sessions highlighted the precision, performance, and intelligent automation that define UNOX’s modern kitchen solutions.

In the spirit of Ramadan, the celebrations concluded with a special Iftar dinner, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere while demonstrating the versatility and efficiency of UNOX equipment in real-time service conditions.

With the launch of the UNOX Lounge in Kochi, UNOX India continues to reinforce its commitment to the Indian foodservice industry by delivering innovative, sustainable, and high-performance cooking solutions that support the evolving needs of professional kitchens.

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