Manpreet Vohra: Why Game Zones are Key for Workplaces

Manpreet Vohra: Why Game Zones are Key for Workplaces

By Manpreet Vohra

Published on June 11, 2025

Ever feel like work is just an endless cycle of presentations, calls, and meetings? Many of us do, and it often leads to burnout. Manpreet Vohra, Managing Partner at BLAAST, a premier family entertainment center in Gurugram, shares that companies are increasingly realizing that for a team to truly thrive, it needs more than just hitting targets. It requires genuine connection, a constant flow of fresh ideas, and a healthy balance between work and play.

This is where game zones come in! These cool, interactive spaces are quickly becoming the go-to for refreshing minds, sparking new ideas, and helping people connect genuinely. Game zones aren't just for playing; they're smart spaces designed to help employees build stronger relationships, trust, and a sense of belonging. Many businesses are now setting up special areas in their offices with fun stuff like video game consoles, ping pong, foosball, golf simulators, VR setups, or even classic board games and puzzles. The main idea is to create a relaxed, welcoming spot where employees can unwind without feeling stuck in a formal office setting.

Why Game Zones Are a Winner for Team Building

Game zones are great at breaking down barriers, reducing stress, and encouraging easy teamwork. While other team-building activities can feel a bit forced, game zones let people bond naturally over shared fun. Games naturally need communication, teamwork, and quick thinking – all skills that are super helpful at work.

When playing, job titles often disappear, putting everyone on the same level. This helps create a more inclusive company culture. Plus, games definitely lift moods, boost motivation, and help people connect. They even help release dopamine, that "feel-good" chemical! As employees enjoy some friendly competition, their morale often gets a boost, which can even show up in their work.

Different Games, Different Strengths

There’s no one-size-fits-all rule for game zones. The best part is that these spaces can be made to fit what a company's employees like. For example, video game stations are awesome for improving teamwork, reaction time, and decision-making. Lots of video games even let multiple people play together, encouraging smart thinking and cooperation.

Tabletop and board games, on the other hand, are great for boosting patience, negotiation, and communication skills. They’re often a big hit with folks who prefer a quieter activity. VR and AR games, like team-led battles or escape rooms, are perfect for improving coordination and being able to adapt. And classic games like foosball or air hockey are perfect for quick breaks, helping employees recharge after busy workdays.

Tips for Setting Up Your Own Game Zone

If your organization is thinking about adding game zones, it’s key to know what your employees want. Asking teams or running a trial session to get their ideas is a fantastic way to start. Another important thing is to make sure these spaces are welcoming to everyone. Whether it’s a board game or a fast-paced video game, make sure there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Game zones should be placed where employees naturally gather. This encourages people to use them without much thought and makes them a regular part of the workplace. While some basic rules are good, keeping the vibe flexible and light-hearted is just as important. Companies should set simple guidelines for respectful play and time limits, so employees can have fun without overdoing it or interrupting work.

Basically, game zones are a powerful way to make the most of downtime and get to the heart of what makes teams successful: connection, working together, and trust. In a time when we're all spending a lot of time online and working long hours, game zones offer a much-needed break to lift spirits, improve teamwork, and spark new ideas.

As businesses keep changing, the importance of a happy and thriving workplace culture can’t be stressed enough. The corporate world might be full of deadlines and high expectations, but game zones are a cool reminder that work should be both productive and enjoyable. They give companies a chance to discover lots of new ways for teams to bond and, in turn, find greater success.


Alivaa Hotels & Resorts Welcomes Heritage Lotwara Fort, Marking Entry into Heritage Hospitality

Alivaa Hotels & Resorts Welcomes Heritage Lotwara Fort, Marking Entry into Heritage Hospitality

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 3, 2025

Alivaa Hotels & Resorts has officially entered the world of heritage hospitality with the addition of Heritage Lotwara Fort in Dausa, Rajasthan to its growing portfolio. This marks Alivaa’s 15th property and its first-ever heritage destination, signifying a meaningful leap in its hospitality journey.

Nestled along the banks of the sacred Banganga River, the 17th-century Lotwara Fort was built by Thakur Ganga Singh and is deeply rooted in the history of the Royal Amber and Jaipur States, representing the legacy of the Kilanot clan of the Kacchawa Dynasty. The surrounding village, fondly referred to as "Peacock Town" for its thriving peafowl population, offers visitors a tranquil blend of history, nature, and Rajasthani charm.

Meticulously restored by Thakur Giriraj Singh Ji, the fort today welcomes architecture and history lovers with regal accommodations such as the King’s Room and Queen’s Room, traditional courtyards, historic Kachehri, and ornate Chhatries, all set within 52,300 sq. ft. of royal elegance.

This expansion reflects Alivaa Hotels & Resorts' strategic intent to offer unique, culturally immersive experiences. By preserving and enhancing heritage destinations like Lotwara, Alivaa strengthens its footprint in tourism-rich regions like Rajasthan, while contributing meaningfully to heritage conservation.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Heritage Lotwara Fort into The Alivaa Hotels & Resorts collection,” said Akash Bhatia, CEO – Alivaa Hotels & Resorts. “Venturing into the heritage segment comes with immense responsibility, and it's a responsibility we embrace with dedication.”

Vikramjit Singh, Founder of Alivaa Hotels & Resorts, added,

“The addition of Lotwara Fort is a testament to our vision of creating a diverse and captivating portfolio that caters to the evolving preferences of travellers.”

Mrs. Aventika Rathore, Proprietor of Shaurya Hospitality, expressed,

“Their expertise in hospitality management and commitment to excellence make Alivaa the ideal partner to ensure the fort retains its legacy while offering authentic experiences.”

Thakur Lokendra Giriraj Singh Lotwara, Owner of Heritage Lotwara Palace, shared,

“We are confident that Alivaa’s deep understanding of the hospitality sector will help preserve and elevate the legacy of Lotwara Fort for generations to come.”

With this historic addition, Alivaa Hotels & Resorts opens the gates to timeless Rajasthani hospitality, inviting guests to step into the pages of history—where culture, comfort, and heritage come alive.


Pune Gas Launches First Smart Gas Experience Centre in North India, Targets 7.12 Lakh LPG Users

Pune Gas Launches First Smart Gas Experience Centre in North India, Targets 7.12 Lakh LPG Users

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 3, 2025

Pune Gas, a leading provider of commercial and industrial gas systems in India, has launched its first Smart Gas Experience Centre in North India at Okhla, New Delhi. The new centre is part of the company’s expansion strategy and is its first owned facility and seventh overall.

Inaugurated by Mr. Jaisinh Sampat, Founder & Managing Director of Pune Gas, along with company executives Mr. Jesal Sampat, Mr. Bhaven Udeshi, and Mrs. Radhika Oza, the centre marks a significant step toward serving over 7.12 lakh commercial and industrial LPG users in North India. The hub will cater to markets across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, offering live demos, consultations, and end-to-end solutions for LPG and natural gas systems.

image

India's commercial and industrial LPG sector remains underutilized, accounting for only 16% of the nation’s 30,916 TMT LPG consumption in FY 2022–23. Many businesses still rely on polluting fuels such as diesel, kerosene, and wood. Pune Gas aims to change that with smart innovations like LPGenius, FuelFusion, and LeakCheck, all of which are showcased at the new centre.

LPGenius, India’s first smart LPG system, addresses key issues like cylinder freezing, reducing wastage by up to 4 kg per cylinder daily and improving productivity by 20–30%. Meanwhile, FuelFusion allows diesel generators to run on a dual-fuel mix without retrofitting, and LeakCheck offers modern gas leak detection for enhanced safety.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Jaisinh Sampat said, “Delhi’s industrial relevance made it a natural choice for our expansion. With smart, clean energy systems, we aim to help businesses operate more safely, efficiently, and sustainably.”

Echoing this, Executive Director Mr. Jesal Sampat added, “Through our Experience Centres, we’re bridging the awareness gap and making future-ready gas systems more accessible than ever.”

The Delhi Experience Centre stands as a hub of innovation, empowering businesses across industries to embrace cleaner, smarter energy choices.

Experience Centre Address:

C-84, Okhla Industrial Area, Phase 1, New Delhi – 110020


IIGC Hosts 3rd Chapter in Bangalore and Declares December 2nd as World Influencer Day

IIGC Hosts 3rd Chapter in Bangalore and Declares December 2nd as World Influencer Day

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 3, 2025

The Indian Influencer Governing Council (IIGC) successfully hosted its 3rd Chapter at Taj Bangalore, bringing together over 100 top voices from India’s creator economy including leading influencers, digital heads, and marketing professionals. In a significant announcement, IIGC declared December 2nd as “World Influencer Day”—a global recognition to celebrate content creators across platforms and categories.

As part of its efforts to empower and protect influencers, IIGC introduced 'IIGC Protect', an initiative launched in collaboration with Trilegal and United We Care x Adayu (Fortis). This program aims to provide legal education and mental wellness support to influencers, addressing key challenges in the fast-paced digital content space. The launch event featured insights from Nikhil Sachdeva (Partner, Trilegal), Rana Atheya (VP – Business, United We Care), Sachin Baliga (Advisor – Neuromodulation Program, Fortis), and creator Aneri Thakkar.

image

Another highlight of the event was the introduction of the IIGC Taskforce and a new Code of Standards for Brands and Influencers. This segment was led by key industry leaders such as Varun Oberoi (Nissin), Jaikishin Chhaproo (ITC), Gaurang Thosani (Royal Sundaram), and Aparajita Mukherjee (DIAGEO). The discussion focused on promoting ethical content creation and responsible brand-influencer collaborations.

image

“Influencers have the power to spark change, ignite conversations that matter, and build something bigger than a brand: a movement,” said Tej Prakash Yadav, BBC Media Action.

image

Content creator Gunjan Taneja (@Gunjanshouts) added, “Being an influencer isn’t about numbers—it’s about the real impact we make. Every word or recommendation could influence someone’s decision to spend their hard-earned money, and that’s a responsibility we must honour.”

The event also featured the Indian Influencer Ratings Weekly Picks, honouring creators across two categories—Trendsetters and Underdoggs. Gunjan Taneja and Thaj were recognised as trendsetters, while Ad.Sum.Twist, Vadiraj Babaladi, Aashika Gowda, Deesha Umesh, Simran Anand, Sneha Shenoy, and Nayanaa Pillai were spotlighted as underdog creators making promising waves.

“India’s influencer ecosystem is shifting from raw creativity to structured professionalism. With initiatives like IIGC Protect, a formal Code of Standards, and the announcement of World Influencer Day, we’re setting the stage for a future where creators shape culture, commerce, and community with purpose,” said Sahil Chopra, Chairman & Founding Member of IIGC.

With three impactful chapters behind them, IIGC reaffirmed its mission to uplift, professionalise, and celebrate India’s dynamic influencer community, laying down a solid framework for growth, responsibility, and recognition in the creator economy.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.