Riyadh Air is set to strengthen its presence in the Indian aviation market as CEO Tony Douglas leads a delegation to India for a series of high-level discussions. The visit, scheduled from March 12 to 14, 2025, will focus on exploring potential partnerships with key Indian aviation stakeholders.

As Riyadh Air prepares for its official launch later this year, the airline is prioritizing India as a crucial market. With Saudi Arabia's tourism sector targeting 7.5 million Indian visitors annually by 2030, this initiative is expected to bolster connectivity and economic ties between the two nations. In 2023, the number of Indian travelers to Saudi Arabia increased by 50%, surpassing 1.5 million visitors, highlighting the growing demand for enhanced air connectivity.

During the visit, Riyadh Air representatives will engage with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to obtain requisite permissions and regulatory support for launching India operations. Additionally, discussions with Air India and IndiGo, the country’s two largest airlines, will focus on potential collaborations to enhance route connectivity and passenger experience.

"India has long been a crucial part of Riyadh Air’s network planning ahead of our operations launch. As travel and business opportunities multiply, India will play a significant role in our airline’s success," said Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air. "Beyond connectivity, our partnerships will foster economic growth, strengthen tourism, and enhance bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and India. We are dedicated to collaborating with Indian aviation stakeholders to create a sustainable and mutually beneficial relationship."

The visit coincides with Riyadh Air’s appointment of Bird Travels as its exclusive distribution and sales partner in India. Renowned for its expertise in the Indian travel industry, Bird Travels will play a pivotal role in enhancing Riyadh Air's market presence and promoting its services across the country.

Gaurav Bhatia, Executive Director of Bird Group, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "We are honored to be Riyadh Air’s exclusive distribution and sales partner in India. Indian travelers can look forward to Riyadh Air’s innovative services and exceptional onboard experience."

Saudi Arabia and India share strong economic and cultural ties, with diplomatic relations established in 1947. Riyadh Air’s expansion aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to diversify the country’s economy and create employment opportunities. By 2030, the airline plans to connect over 100 global destinations, contribute $20 billion to Saudi Arabia’s non-oil GDP, and generate over 200,000 jobs worldwide.

As Riyadh Air continues to shape the future of global aviation, its India expansion marks a significant milestone in enhancing international air travel and strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations.

Holi isn't just a festival—it's a full-blown, color-soaked, dance-like-nobody's-watching, Thandai-fueled celebration that takes over cities, villages, and even mountain hideaways across India. Whether you're in for wild street parties, sacred temple rituals, or a chill Holi retreat in the hills, there's a perfect spot waiting for you. From Jaipur's royal Holi to the psytrance vibes of the Himalayas, these five destinations guarantee an experience you'll be talking about till next Holi (or longer). But here's the deal—these places fill up fast! So, if you don't want to end up watching Holi reels from your couch, now's the time to plan your trip.

1. Zostel Pushkar – The Ultimate Backpacker Holi Party

Two days of non-stop music, color fights, and celebration

Pushkar is one of India's most electrifying Holi destinations, where travelers and locals gather in the main square for two days of non-stop celebration. Expect DJ-led parties, color-throwing madness, and an incredible international backpacker vibe. If you're looking for a wild and unforgettable Holi, this is the place to be.

Book your stay at Zostel Pushkar

2. Moustache Varanasi – Holi on the Ghats of the Ganges

A traditional and spiritual Holi experience

Varanasi's Holi is a mix of ancient traditions and high-energy celebrations. People play with colors along the ghats of the Ganges, while temples host special Holi rituals and a grand evening Aarti. The narrow lanes of Varanasi become a colorful maze of celebration, making it one of the most unique Holi experiences in India.

Book your stay at Moustache Varanasi

3. The Hosteller Jaipur – Royal Holi in the Pink City

Experience the grandeur of Holi with a cultural twist

Jaipur offers a heritage-rich Holi celebration, where historic palaces and forts serve as the backdrop for traditional music, folk performances, and royal celebrations. The City Palace hosts an exclusive Holi event, making it a great spot for those who want to combine culture with festivity.

Book your stay at The Hosteller Jaipur

4. Zostel Rishikesh – A Riverside Escape for a Peaceful Holi

Celebrate with organic colors, Ganga Aarti, and adventure

If you want a Holi experience that's both peaceful and festive, Rishikesh is the perfect destination. Many hostels and ashrams organize organic Holi celebrations, followed by yoga sessions, bonfires, and live music by the river. It's a great mix of colorful celebrations and relaxation.

Book your stay at Zostel Rishikesh

5. Travel in Heaven, Kasol – Celebrate Holi in the Heart of the Hills

A laid-back yet vibrant Holi in the Parvati Valley

For those who want a laid-back yet vibrant Holi, Kasol is the perfect destination. Tucked in the Parvati Valley, this backpacker paradise offers organic Holi celebrations, live music sessions, and cozy bonfires under the starlit sky. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush greenery, it's an ideal spot for travelers looking to mix festival fun with relaxation. Many hostels, including Travel in Heaven, organize community Holi events, making it a colorful and unforgettable experience in the mountains.

Book your stay at Travel in Heaven, Kasol

So grab your white kurta, sunglasses (trust us, you'll need them), and your best festive spirit—because Holi 2025 is about to be a riot of colors, beats, adventure, and friendships you didn't see coming!

Culinary Culture’s Ultimate Restaurant Ratings is back in 2025, bringing a bigger and bolder edition that expands across more cities. After its groundbreaking debut in 2024, this highly respected rating system continues to redefine India’s culinary landscape, setting new benchmarks for unbiased restaurant evaluations.

The Ultimate Star Revelation Ceremony will take place in Bengaluru on 15 March 2025, unveiling the finest dining destinations across the country. With rankings extending to four new cities—Hyderabad, Bhopal, Kochi, and Amritsar—this year’s ratings promise a truly pan-India perspective.

A Benchmark of Integrity in Restaurant Ratings

Culinary Culture’s Ultimate Restaurant Ratings stand apart as India’s only evaluation system based purely on merit, free from sponsorships or external influence. The process ensures transparency, with results remaining confidential until the official ceremony.

Last year, three restaurants earned the coveted 5 Ultimate Stars:

• Farmlore, Bengaluru

• Avartana, Chennai

• Indian Accent, New Delhi

This elite distinction places them at the pinnacle of India’s dining scene, setting the standard for excellence.

Vir Sanghvi, Chairman of Culinary Culture, highlights the significance of this initiative: “At Culinary Culture, we have always led initiatives that shape India’s F&B industry. From celebrating street food to ranking chefs, our mission remains the same—to honor excellence with honesty and transparency. The Ultimate Restaurant Ratings is another game-changing first for India.”

How the Ratings Work

The rating system follows a three-tier structure:

• 3 Stars: Very Good

• 4 Stars: Excellent

• 5 Stars: The Ultimate

Unlike conventional awards influenced by sponsorships, Culinary Culture’s system maintains integrity through anonymous inspections conducted by full-time referees. Restaurants are evaluated through a meticulous process involving nominations, anonymous screenings, debates, and a final selection phase. The platform remains independent and does not accept fees from restaurants for inclusion.

What’s New in 2025?

• More Cities, More Diversity: Hyderabad, Bhopal, Kochi, and Amritsar join the list, bringing regional culinary gems into the spotlight.

• Special Awards: Categories include Iconic Restaurant, Restaurant Manager, Sustainability, Opening of the Year, and Mixologist of the Year.

• A Grand Celebration in Bengaluru: Top restaurateurs, chefs, and industry leaders will gather for this prestigious event.

• Increased Coverage: Nearly 100 restaurants will be recognized, doubling last year’s coverage and strengthening India’s global culinary presence.
  

  

Raaj Sanghvi, CEO of Culinary Culture, shares: “The response to last year’s ratings was overwhelming. Diners now recognize our plaques as a symbol of trust. Our ratings remain dynamic—restaurants are re-evaluated regularly, ensuring credibility. We thank our partners, Lavazza and Diageo, for their unwavering support.”

Supporting Excellence in the F&B Industry

The Ultimate Restaurant Ratings is backed by brands that share its commitment to advancing India’s culinary industry, including Lavazza, Johnnie Walker, Veeba, Bisleri Vedica, and Newby Tea.

About Culinary Culture

Co-founded by Vir Sanghvi and Sameer Sain, Culinary Culture is India’s leading authority in food evaluation. The platform is renowned for its restaurant ratings, chef awards, and street food rankings. Beyond ratings, it hosts global culinary exchanges, bringing celebrated international chefs to India while showcasing Indian talent on the global stage. Culinary Culture also leads several initiatives, including FoodSuperstars, Culinary Conversations, and StreetFoodSuperstars, shaping the future of India’s gastronomic landscape.

Join India’s Culinary Revolution! - For more destails 

Visit Culinary Culture’s website: www.CulinaryCulture.co