India’s Sommelier Scene Levels Up as Sommeliers Association of India Brings Home Global Standards and Recognition

India’s Sommelier Scene Levels Up as Sommeliers Association of India Brings Home Global Standards and Recognition

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 26, 2025

The Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) has made a significant impact on the Indian wine industry, bringing global standards and recognition to the country’s growing community of sommeliers. As the only official ASI-affiliated body in India, SAI has been dedicated to elevating the profession, promoting excellence in wine and spirits education, and fostering international collaboration.

Recently, SAI hosted its first-ever 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India Competition, held on January 23 at The LaLiT Mumbai. This landmark event saw Jai Singh emerge as the winner, with Pankaj Singh and Amber Deshmukh taking second and third place, respectively. The competition not only highlighted India’s top sommeliers but also attracted professionals and experts from across the world, further establishing the nation as a key player in the global wine and hospitality scene.

Strengthening the Industry with Global Partnerships

One of the key drivers behind SAI’s success is its strong partnerships with influential global organizations, which offer exclusive benefits to its members. Notable collaborations include:

  • Jancis Robinson MW OBE: Insights from a leading wine critic and advocate of sustainable winemaking.

  • Jane Anson: Bordeaux expert providing educational guidance.

  • Sommelier India Wine Magazine: India’s first and leading wine magazine, delivering industry insights.

  • GuildSomm: A premier international platform for wine education.

  • RIEDEL: A renowned glassware company enhancing the wine-tasting experience.

These partnerships not only provide educational opportunities but also open doors for career development and networking within the global wine community.

Bridging Global Standards and Indian Talent

SAI has played a pivotal role in making prestigious international certifications accessible to Indian sommeliers. For the first time, Indian professionals were able to sit for the ASI Certification 1 Exam and the ASI Diploma Exam—opportunities previously unavailable in the country. This has empowered Indian sommeliers, such as Abhishek Batabyal, Yash Karnwal, and Jai Singh, to achieve recognition at the global level. In particular, Pankaj Singh made history by passing the ASI Diploma Exam, a monumental achievement for the Indian sommelier community.

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Transforming the Future of Indian Sommeliers

SAI’s efforts are reshaping the landscape of wine education in India, positioning the country’s sommeliers to thrive on the global stage. “We are not only nurturing homegrown talent but giving it a truly international platform,” says Mattia Antonio Cianca, Co-Founder & Vice-President of SAI.

With the support of its global partners and the enthusiasm of its members, SAI is set to pave the way for a new generation of wine professionals who will represent India with pride on the world stage.

As the Indian wine industry continues to evolve, SAI is committed to further advancing the country’s reputation as a hub for wine education, appreciation, and hospitality. Through its ongoing initiatives, the association is not only fostering a community of skilled sommeliers but also nurturing a culture that celebrates the rich diversity of wines and beverages.

"SAI was born out of a vision to create access, opportunity, and recognition for Indian sommeliers on a global stage," says Amrita Singh, Co-Founder & President of SAI. "This recognition is just the beginning of a transformative journey for the Indian hospitality and wine & beverage community."

About Sommeliers Association of India (SAI)

Founded in 2024, the Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to promoting excellence in the sommelier profession. As a member of the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI), SAI offers world-class education, certifications, and networking opportunities for wine professionals across India. Its initiatives, including the SAI Best Sommelier of India Competition, provide a platform for Indian sommeliers to showcase their talent and advance to international competitions such as the ASI Contest Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific and the ASI Contest Best Sommelier of the World.

SAI is committed to making India a leading hub for wine culture, promoting responsible consumption, and supporting the growth of the country’s rich wine tradition.


Alia Bhatt Turns Heads at Cannes 2026 in Malabar Gold & Diamonds Creations

Alia Bhatt Turns Heads at Cannes 2026 in Malabar Gold & Diamonds Creations

By Hariharan U

Published on May 16, 2026

Alia Bhatt made a striking appearance at the 79th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, wearing bespoke sapphire and diamond jewellery from Malabar Gold and Diamonds, blending refined craftsmanship with contemporary elegance on one of the world’s most celebrated red carpets.

Styled in a custom ensemble by Rhea Kapoor, Alia paired her Cannes look with a curated selection of high jewellery pieces featuring Ceylon sapphires and diamonds from the jewellery brand’s premium collection.

The jewellery edit showcased statement earrings, sapphire rings, and a diamond pendant crafted with contemporary detailing and precision artistry. Together, the pieces reflected a balance of sophistication, gemstone craftsmanship, and understated luxury.

Among the standout creations were the White Quartz Briolette Earrings, featuring 3-carat pear-shaped earrings designed with fluid white quartz briolettes that moved elegantly with light and motion.

Adding depth to the overall styling were statement rings including the Ceylon Sapphire Oval Ring, centred around an 8-carat oval Ceylon sapphire surrounded by brilliant round diamonds, enhancing the gemstone’s rich ocean-blue tones and brilliance.

The look also featured the Pear-Shaped Ceylon Sapphire Ring, showcasing 8.8 carats of Ceylon sapphire designed to resemble a falling raindrop, highlighting remarkable clarity and depth.

Completing the ensemble was the Pear-Shaped Diamond Pendant, featuring a 4-carat pear-shaped diamond suspended in a minimal and refined setting, creating a graceful stream of reflected light.

The Cannes appearance further highlighted Malabar Gold & Diamonds’ continued focus on fine craftsmanship, gemstone quality, and modern design interpretation, while also reinforcing the growing global presence of Indian jewellery artistry across international fashion and cultural platforms.

Commenting on the collaboration, M. P. Ahammad said, “Cannes Film Festival represents a global platform where fashion, artistry, and craftsmanship come together. Through this collaboration with Alia Bhatt, we wanted to present jewellery that reflects timeless elegance while showcasing the finesse and design excellence associated with Malabar Gold & Diamonds.”

Founded in 1993, Malabar Gold & Diamonds is the flagship company of the Malabar Group and currently operates over 445 showrooms across 14 countries. The brand continues to expand its global footprint through a strong focus on luxury craftsmanship, international design sensibilities, and socially responsible business practices.

Alia Bhatt’s Cannes 2026 appearance marks another milestone for the brand as Indian luxury and jewellery craftsmanship continue gaining visibility on global fashion platforms.


Adani Airport and IHG Sign Five-Hotel Deal, Bring Kimpton to India

Adani Airport and IHG Sign Five-Hotel Deal, Bring Kimpton to India

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 16, 2026

Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL) and IHG Hotels & Resorts have entered into a major partnership to develop five hotels across important airport-linked and fast-growing urban destinations in India. The agreement will add close to 1,500 rooms and marks a significant step in strengthening hospitality infrastructure around India’s expanding aviation network.

One of the biggest highlights of the partnership is the India debut of Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, which will open its first property in Jaipur. Alongside this, additional properties under Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express brands will be introduced as part of mixed-use developments connected to Adani Airport cities.

The planned projects will be spread across Jaipur, Navi Mumbai, Mangaluru, and Thiruvananthapuram. The collaboration reflects the increasing demand for hospitality services around airport-led developments and growing urban centres. Reports also suggest that AAHL and IHG are in advanced discussions to further expand their partnership.

Kimpton’s entry into India brings a globally recognised lifestyle hospitality brand known for its boutique experiences and design-led approach. Its launch signals the rising demand for premium hospitality experiences, especially around airports and urban developments.

The expansion also comes at a time when India’s aviation and tourism sectors continue to witness strong growth. Increasing passenger traffic and business travel are driving the need for integrated airport ecosystems that go beyond transport and include hospitality, retail, and commercial spaces.

Speaking on the development, Pranav Adani, Director, Adani Enterprises Limited, said: “As the Adani Group expands its presence across hospitality and airport-led urban infrastructure, our vision is to create world-class destinations that seamlessly integrate travel, stay and urban experiences around India’s rapidly growing aviation ecosystem. We are building this platform in partnership with leading international hotel brands that bring global standards, operational excellence and scale. Our collaboration with IHG Hotels & Resorts, and the development of five hotels across key gateway destinations, marks an important step in strengthening high-quality hospitality infrastructure aligned with India’s long-term travel and economic growth.”

AAHL continues to build airport city developments that combine aviation, hospitality, retail, and commercial infrastructure. Its airport city projects currently span around 663 acres across multiple locations with a focus on long-term urban growth and passenger experience.

Commenting on the partnership, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “The partnership with Adani Airport Holdings reflects the scale of opportunity we continue to see in India’s hospitality sector, particularly across gateway cities and airport-led developments that are witnessing strong demand from business, leisure and transit travellers alike. With a mix of luxury, premium and essentials brands, this portfolio allows us to meaningfully strengthen our presence across high-growth markets across the country. This agreement also marks an important milestone for us with the introduction of Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants to India.”

IHG Hotels & Resorts currently operates 52 hotels across six brands in India and has a pipeline of 98 more properties expected to open over the next three to five years.


The Serai Resorts Introduces Romantic Drive-To Escapes for Couples

The Serai Resorts Introduces Romantic Drive-To Escapes for Couples

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 16, 2026

With busy schedules and fast-moving city life becoming a daily reality, many couples are now looking for meaningful breaks that help them slow down and spend quality time together. Quiet surroundings, privacy, and experiences that encourage genuine connection are becoming more valuable than long-distance travel plans.

Keeping this growing travel trend in mind, The Serai Resorts has introduced a curated collection of romantic drive-to getaways designed especially for couples. Located within comfortable driving distance from Bengaluru and Mysuru, the boutique luxury properties in Kabini, Bandipur, and Chikmagalur offer private and immersive experiences for those looking for a refreshing escape.

A key highlight of the offering is the specially designed Forever in Love package. Starting at ₹56,000 plus taxes and available for both two-night and three-night stays, the package has been created to bring together luxury and intimate experiences. Couples can enjoy a romantic dining setup within the privacy of their room, sparkling wine, handcrafted chocolates, candle-lit turndown décor, and a celebratory cake. Guests also receive a 10% savings benefit on spa and bar services.

At The Serai Kabini, couples can relax beside the peaceful Kabini backwaters while enjoying experiences that combine nature and comfort. Activities include nature walks, coracle rides, kayaking, and boat and land safaris. The experience is further enhanced with private BBQ dining arrangements and 30-minute spa therapies at the doorstep, offering moments of privacy and relaxation.

For travellers who prefer cooler weather and scenic landscapes, The Serai Chikmagalur presents a serene retreat set amid lush coffee plantations. Recognised as India’s Best Staycation at the India’s Best Awards 2025 by Travel + Leisure, the property features spacious villas with private pools designed for uninterrupted relaxation. Guests can explore guided plantation walks, cycling trails, and peaceful outdoor experiences or simply spend quiet moments together within their private villa. Personalised BBQ experiences and doorstep spa treatments add to the overall experience.

At The Serai Bandipur, couples can enjoy a stay close to nature on the edge of Bandipur National Park. Surrounded by forest landscapes and wildlife, the resort offers opportunities to spot deer near private log huts and experience guided safaris and outdoor adventures. The stay also includes private BBQ dining and spa therapies, blending nature, adventure, and comfort.

From the calm backwaters of Kabini and the misty hills of Chikmagalur to the wilderness of Bandipur, The Serai Resorts offers couples a chance to enjoy intimate and memorable experiences without travelling too far from the city.

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