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.


Lemon Tree Hotels Expands in Rajasthan with Keys Lite by Lemon Tree Hotels, Jaipur

Lemon Tree Hotels Expands in Rajasthan with Keys Lite by Lemon Tree Hotels, Jaipur

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 13, 2025

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited has announced the launch of its latest property, Keys Lite by Lemon Tree Hotels, Jaipur. This marks the brand’s third property in the city and 12th in Rajasthan, further expanding its presence in the state’s vibrant hospitality landscape.

The newly launched Keys Lite by Lemon Tree Hotels, Jaipur features 50 well-appointed rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, Keys Café, a fitness centre, and other public areas, offering guests an efficient, comfortable, and value-driven stay experience.

Known as the Pink City, Jaipur stands as one of India’s most culturally rich and architecturally splendid destinations. The city earned its nickname in 1876 when its buildings were painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales, a gesture symbolising hospitality. From architectural marvels like Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Amber Fort, and Jantar Mantar (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to its colourful markets, traditional handicrafts, jewellery, textiles, and cuisine, Jaipur continues to enchant travellers worldwide.

Recently, Jaipur was ranked 5th among the world’s best cities for travellers in the Travel + Leisure “World’s Best Awards 2025”, surpassing renowned global destinations such as Florence.

Commenting on the launch, Vishvapreet Singh Cheema, President, Lemon Tree Hotels, said,

“Jaipur continues to be one of India’s most sought-after destinations, attracting both leisure and business travellers. With this new opening, our third in the city, we are delighted to strengthen our presence in Rajasthan and offer guests the brand’s signature combination of comfort, warmth, and value in a city that epitomises culture and hospitality.”


Hyatt to Open Hyatt Place Kolhapur Sangli, Expanding Its Presence in India

Hyatt to Open Hyatt Place Kolhapur Sangli, Expanding Its Presence in India

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 13, 2025

Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced that a Hyatt affiliate has entered into a management agreement with Shah Lagoo Properties LLP to open Hyatt Place Kolhapur Sangli, strengthening the brand’s growing presence in India. The upcoming hotel will be part of SL Highstreet, a next-generation mixed-use commercial hub featuring premium office spaces and upscale retail.

Set to offer 115 well-designed guestrooms, Hyatt Place Kolhapur Sangli aims to cater to the needs of today’s modern traveller with dedicated spaces for sleeping, working, and relaxing. Guests can look forward to a vibrant 24/7 dining outlet serving freshly prepared meals, a fitness centre, and a swimming pool. The hotel will also feature versatile banquet and conference facilities, making it ideal for both business meetings and social events.

“The signing of Hyatt Place Kolhapur Sangli aligns with Hyatt’s strategy to thoughtfully grow our brand presence in India’s secondary cities, delivering high-quality hospitality experiences in underserved yet fast-developing markets,” said Dhruva Rathore, Vice President, Development, India & Southwest Asia, Hyatt. “As the first internationally branded hotel planned for this region, Hyatt Place Kolhapur Sangli will bring our signature comfort, convenience, and care to Sangli.”

Echoing this sentiment, Akshay Shah, Partner at Shah Lagoo Properties LLP, said, “Our association with Hyatt to develop Hyatt Place Kolhapur Sangli is a proud moment for us and aligns with our vision to establish a world-class commercial and hospitality destination in Sangli. We are confident that this hotel will set new benchmarks for quality and service in the region.”

Once open, Hyatt Place Kolhapur Sangli will join Hyatt’s expanding Indian portfolio, offering guests the brand’s hallmark of 24/7 convenience, seamless service, and thoughtfully crafted spaces. Its strategic location within Maharashtra’s fast-developing corridor positions it as a prime choice for both business and leisure travellers, reinforcing Hyatt’s commitment to growing across India’s emerging destinations.


Diwali with Daughters: Annapurna Girls Hostel Spreads Festive Cheer for Students Away from Home

Diwali with Daughters: Annapurna Girls Hostel Spreads Festive Cheer for Students Away from Home

By Hariharan U

Published on October 12, 2025

In a heartwarming celebration of togetherness, Annapurna Girls Hostel in Greater Noida hosted a special Diwali event titled “Diwali with Daughters” for students who couldn’t return home for the festival. The initiative aimed to bring warmth, inclusion, and the feeling of family to young women spending the festive season away from their loved ones.

Surrounded by leading institutions like Sharda University, Noida International University, Amity University, and Galgotia University, the hostel has long been recognised as a safe and student-friendly space. This year, its campus came alive with diyas, rangoli, and sweets, turning every corner into a reflection of the festival’s light and happiness. Students participated in diya-making, rangoli design, and cultural performances, transforming the hostel into a colourful and cheerful space that echoed the spirit of home.

The celebration concluded with a community dinner, where students, wardens, and management shared festive delicacies together. The symbolic lighting of diyas by everyone present marked hope, positivity, and new beginnings, a gesture that brought both comfort and connection to those far from home.

Chairperson Kunwar Gaurav Giri shared, “Many of our students are from different areas of study and are unable to go home for festivals due to distance. We saw this as an opportunity to create space for students to experience family warmth and the feeling of celebration. Diwali with Daughters is a reminder for students that they are not alone, Annapurna is their second home.”

More than just a festive event, Diwali with Daughters reflected Annapurna’s ongoing commitment to student well-being and emotional comfort. It reinforced the idea that even when miles away from family, festivals can be just as meaningful when celebrated in a caring, safe, and nurturing environment.

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