Indri Dru Crowned 'Best Indian Single Malt' at World Whiskies Awards 2024

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 1, 2024

In a landmark moment for the Indian whisky industry, Piccadily Distilleries' Indri Dru has been awarded the prestigious title of 'Best Indian Single Malt' at the World Whiskies Awards 2024. This accolade comes on the heels of the success of Indri-Trini, India's first triple cask single malt, which also received international recognition. Indri Dru's triumph is a testament to India's burgeoning reputation in the global whisky scene, less than a year after its market introduction in 2023.

The name 'Dru' is derived from Sanskrit, meaning wood, and pays homage to the ancient Indian mythological drink “soma”. Matured in the subtropical climate of northern India, Indri Dru is a meticulously crafted whisky, blending the richness of Ex-Bourbon barrels to achieve a unique flavour profile, characterised by its impressive 57.2% alcohol by volume.

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Indri Dru delights the senses from the first whiff, offering a rich aroma of mixed fruits, underpinned by vanilla, spice, chocolate, and honey notes. The palate is treated to a symphony of sweet fruits, soft spice, and vanilla, with undertones of chocolate and wood lactones, enriched by citrus notes that lend the whisky its depth and complexity. The finish is both full-bodied and intricate, leaving a lingering fruitiness that is both tantalising and satisfying.

"This award for 'Best Indian Single Malt' is a recognition of India's exceptional skill in whisky making and underscores our commitment to excellence," remarked Siddhartha Sharma, Founder of Piccadily Distilleries. "Indri Dru not only brings honour to our distillery but also marks India's rising stature in the global whisky industry."

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The World Whiskies Awards, known for its rigorous judging process, involves three rounds of scrutiny by an esteemed panel, including international journalists, industry experts, and specialist drink retailers. The competition celebrates the finest in whisky making from around the globe, with participants from the United Kingdom, the United States, Denmark, Australia, and beyond.

Indri Dru's recognition at the World Whiskies Awards 2024 adds to its growing list of accolades, including high praise from the International Wine and Spirits Competition of 2023. Lauded for its balance and richness in flavour, Indri Dru is celebrated as a standout addition to the whisky world, promising a memorable experience for connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.


Burger King India Turns Up the Heat with New Limited-Time Peri-Peri Fest

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 17, 2026

 Burger King India has expanded its flavour-packed menu with the launch of its Limited-Time Peri-Peri Fest, bringing a fresh line-up of burgers, sides and value meals inspired by the globally loved Peri-Peri flavour. Available across Burger King restaurants nationwide from July 7, the new menu continues the brand's signature Dunking experience following the positive response to its Korean Kimchi Fest.

The Peri-Peri Fest menu is available for dine-in, takeaway and delivery. Customers can also choose from exclusive Peri-Peri combos and meal upgrades for a complete flavour-packed experience.

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The limited-time menu features nine new offerings, including Peri-Peri Veg Whopper, Peri-Peri Chicken Whopper, Peri-Peri Paneer Burger, Peri-Peri Cheese Burger, Peri-Peri Chicken Burger, Peri-Peri Chicken Wings, Peri-Peri Boneless Chicken, Peri-Peri Chicken Nuggets and Peri-Peri Fries.

To mark the launch, Burger King India has introduced a colourful campaign inspired by the African and Portuguese roots of Peri-Peri, blended with a Gen Z-inspired style. The campaign features an original musical film filled with vibrant visuals, music and cultural influences, celebrating the bold flavours in a distinctly Burger King way.

Commenting on the launch, Kapil Grover, Chief Marketing & Digital Officer, Burger King India, said:

"Peri-Peri has emerged as one of India's most loved flavour profiles, fuelled by consumers' growing appetite for bold and exciting flavours. With Peri-Peri Fest, we're taking that love a step further by bringing consumers an experience that's rooted in the true origins of Peri-Peri. Our signature Dunked Peri-Peri platform delivers richer, bolder flavour in every bite, offering a distinctive Burger King experience that's both craveable and memorable."

Sharing the creative thought behind the campaign, Anupama Ramaswamy, Managing Director & Chief Creative Officer, Havas Creative India, said:

"The product itself has a natural sense of theatre as it's dunked for full flavour. We wanted the campaign to mirror that same exuberance. Instead of simply talking about flavour, we turned it into a musical celebration with an original soundtrack that's catchy, energetic and impossible to forget. Every beat, visual and movement was crafted to make audiences feel the joy of going all in."

To support the launch, Burger King India is rolling out a nationwide 360-degree campaign across digital platforms, out-of-home advertising, social media, influencer collaborations, in-restaurant branding and local activations.

As part of the celebration, customers purchasing select Peri-Peri x Sprite Meal Combos through the Burger King App will get a chance to win a free trip to Korea through a lucky draw. The app also offers exclusive Crazy App Deals for dine-in guests, making the Peri-Peri Fest even more rewarding.


Grand Mercure Bangalore Celebrates Gujarat and Rajasthan’s Culinary Heritage with Susheela Kankariya

Grand Mercure Bangalore Celebrates Gujarat and Rajasthan’s Culinary Heritage with Susheela Kankariya

By Hariharan U

Published on July 17, 2026

Grand Mercure Bangalore is bringing the rich culinary traditions of Gujarat and Rajasthan to the city through a special collaboration with Ms. Susheela Kankariya, who has dedicated herself to preserving authentic regional recipes passed down through generations.

The limited-time dining experience celebrates the warmth of home-style cooking, traditional flavours, and the stories behind India’s diverse culinary heritage. Inspired by recipes enjoyed across families over generations, the showcase offers guests an opportunity to experience the simplicity, richness, and authenticity of Gujarati and Rajasthani cuisine.

Curated using fresh local ingredients, traditional cooking techniques, and time-honoured recipes, the special menu highlights the unique flavours of two of India’s most celebrated regional food cultures. From comforting everyday preparations to festive delicacies, each dish reflects the culinary identity, traditions, and hospitality of Gujarat and Rajasthan.

The special menu will be available across two of Grand Mercure Bangalore’s signature dining destinations. Guests can enjoy an exclusive à la carte selection at The Verandah, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, while By The Blue will host a special Sunday Brunch featuring an elaborate buffet showcasing a wider variety of authentic Gujarati and Rajasthani favourites.

The specially curated menu features live stations offering favourites such as Mini Ragada Pattice, Papdi Chaat, Thepla, and Bajra Roti. Guests can also savour traditional delicacies including Khandvi, Handvo, Dhokla, Kachori, Khichdi Kadhi, Dal Dhokli, Gatte ki Sabzi, Gatte ka Pulao, Ker Sangri Pickle, Missi Roti, and Drumstick Thepla.

The culinary journey concludes with an indulgent dessert selection featuring Moong Dal Halwa, Mohanthal, Sweet Khichda, Lauki Halwa, Coconut Laddoo, Churma, and refreshing Mango Shrikhand.

Speaking about the collaboration, Parag Shah, General Manager, Grand Mercure Bangalore, said, “At Grand Mercure Bangalore, we believe food is one of the best ways to experience the culture of a place. Through this collaboration, we are delighted to bring the distinctive flavours of Gujarat and Rajasthan to our guests and celebrate recipes that have been passed down through families for generations. We look forward to welcoming guests to enjoy this special culinary experience across our restaurants.”

Ms. Susheela Kankariya added, “The food of Gujarat and Rajasthan is deeply connected to family, tradition, and everyday life. Every recipe carries a story and reflects the character of the region it comes from. I am delighted to collaborate with Grand Mercure Bangalore and share these authentic flavours with guests, giving them an opportunity to experience the true essence of these cuisines.”

Through curated culinary collaborations, Grand Mercure Bangalore continues to celebrate India’s diverse food traditions by bringing regional flavours, cultural stories, and authentic dining experiences to its guests.


The Leela Gandhinagar Brings Royal Indian Flavours to Life with Biryani & Kebab Trail at Diya

The Leela Gandhinagar Brings Royal Indian Flavours to Life with Biryani & Kebab Trail at Diya

By Hariharan U

Published on July 16, 2026

The Leela Gandhinagar is celebrating India’s rich royal culinary traditions with the launch of its Royal Biryani & Kebab Trail at Diya, the hotel’s signature Indian specialty restaurant. Running from 16th July to 31st July 2026, the festival invites guests to experience the timeless flavours, aromas, and craftsmanship of India’s royal kitchens through an exclusive selection of biryanis and kebabs.

Inspired by culinary traditions once enjoyed by royal households across the country, the festival brings together fragrant basmati rice, aromatic spices, slow-cooking techniques, and expertly grilled preparations that have made biryanis and kebabs iconic expressions of Indian fine dining.

As guests enter Diya, they are welcomed by the rich aromas of saffron-infused rice, roasted spices, charcoal-grilled kebabs, and traditional preparations crafted with precision. The festival celebrates the artistry behind these dishes, highlighting regional influences and generations of culinary knowledge passed down through India’s royal kitchens.

The specially curated menu features an assortment of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies, including signature biryanis such as Hyderabadi Kathal Dum Biryani, Hyderabadi Mutton Biryani, and Murgh Dum Biryani. Each preparation showcases layers of fragrant rice, carefully balanced spices, and slow-cooked ingredients designed to create a rich and authentic dining experience.

The kebab selection reflects the diversity and sophistication of Indian grilling traditions with creations including Shahi Subz Akhrot Ki Seekh, Ulta Tawa Subz Galouti, Murgh Angar Bedgi, and Gosht Aur Hare Pyaaz Ki Seekh. Prepared by the hotel’s Master Chef, every dish combines traditional techniques with refined presentation, capturing the elegance associated with royal Indian cuisine.

The culinary experience is further enhanced by Diya’s luxurious interiors, featuring silver-adorned ceilings, handcrafted chandeliers, Venetian mirrors, and contemporary Indian design elements. The restaurant’s elegant ambience creates a setting inspired by royal dining chambers, allowing guests to enjoy the festival as an immersive gastronomic journey.

Whether for an intimate dinner, family gathering, or special celebration, the Royal Biryani & Kebab Trail offers guests an opportunity to explore India’s culinary heritage while experiencing the signature hospitality of The Leela.

Speaking about the festival, Vikas Sood, General Manager, The Leela Gandhinagar, said, “Biryanis and kebabs carry a remarkable legacy of royal kitchens, regional craftsmanship, and generations of culinary artistry. Through this festival, we wanted to recreate the warmth and grandeur of those timeless traditions while offering our guests an experience that reflects the elegance and authenticity associated with Diya and The Leela.”

Through this celebration, The Leela Gandhinagar continues its commitment to showcasing India’s diverse culinary heritage through thoughtfully curated dining experiences. The Royal Biryani & Kebab Trail brings together tradition, craftsmanship, and luxury hospitality, offering guests a memorable journey through flavours that have adorned India’s royal tables for centuries.

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