MEWA India 2025 Concludes with Huge Success, Uniting 300+ Global Exhibitors

MEWA India 2025 Concludes with Huge Success, Uniting 300+ Global Exhibitors

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 18, 2025

MEWA India 2025, the premier B2B exhibition for the nuts and dry fruits sector, concluded its highly successful three-day event at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai. Held from February 12th to 14th, this year's event surpassed expectations, drawing over 300 exhibitors and 10,000 visitors from more than 25 countries—a remarkable 66.67% increase from the previous year.

Building on the success of MEWA 2024, which welcomed 6,000 visitors and 130 exhibitors, MEWA India 2025 showcased the significant growth in the global demand for nuts and dry fruits, particularly as healthy snack alternatives. As consumers worldwide seek more nutritious food options, the nuts and dry fruits industry is positioning itself as a key player in the health-conscious food movement.

Mr. Sameer Bhanushali, Founding Member of the Nuts & Dry Fruits Council of India (NDFC(I)), discussed the challenges facing the sector, including price volatility, supply chain disruptions, and global economic impacts. He noted, “The nuts and dry fruits market in India is projected to grow by 5.97%, reaching a volume of US$13.27 billion by 2030. While urban populations are increasingly opting for healthier options like pistachios, almonds, and foxnuts, the sector still faces several developmental challenges. MEWA 2025 aimed to address these issues and foster international partnerships to drive industry growth.”

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The exhibition floor was a hub of innovation, with leading industry players from across the globe, including Crain Walnut, Wonderful Pistachios from the USA, Kimia Dates from Iran, Blue Diamond—the world’s largest almond exporter—and Al Mehtab from Dubai. Industry experts also participated in a panel discussion focused on the role of advanced technology in streamlining the sector, as well as policies for the import and export of nuts and dry fruits in India.

MEWA India 2025 served as a crucial platform for networking and building trade connections, allowing businesses to explore new opportunities and collaborate on expanding their reach within the global market.

Mr. Rajeev Pabreja, Founding Member of NDFC(I) and Co-Chairperson of MEWA 2025, emphasized the importance of the event, saying, “MEWA India 2025 is a vital event for promoting quality, innovation, and growth in the nuts and dry fruits sector. It positions India as a global leader and offers networking opportunities that can fuel business expansion and foster collaborative growth.”

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The event was graced by several high-profile personalities, including Smt. Smriti Irani, Former Union Cabinet Minister, who delivered a keynote address. Bollywood singer Jonita Gandhi’s performance added to the glamour, while actress Genelia D’souza, promoting her plant-based meat company, Imagine Meats, also made a special appearance.

MEWA India 2025 highlighted the strategic role of marketing boards and the continued efforts to promote the nuts and dry fruits industry. With high expectations for next year, MEWA is excited to return with even more opportunities and participants, solidifying its position as a key global player in the sector.

About MEWA

MEWA is India’s foremost B2B exhibition for the nuts and dry fruits industry, bringing together participants from over 50 countries. With 300+ exhibitors and 10,000+ attendees, MEWA 2025 is poised to elevate the sector by fostering advancements in research, innovation, production, trade, and consumption, positioning India as a global leader in the industry.

About NDFC(I)

The Nuts & Dry Fruits Council of India (NDFC(I)) is the unified voice of the Indian nuts, dry fruits, seeds, raisins, berries, and dates industry. Its mission is to drive growth and collaboration across all facets of the sector, from growers to processors to distributors.


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.


B Natural Launches 'Coconut Cola', Creating a New Beverage Category

B Natural Launches 'Coconut Cola', Creating a New Beverage Category

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 16, 2026

ITC Foods has expanded its beverage portfolio with the launch of B Natural Coconut Cola, introducing what it describes as a first-of-its-kind drink in India. Combining the familiar taste and fizz of cola with the goodness of coconut water, the new beverage is designed for consumers looking for lighter, everyday refreshment without compromising on taste.

Built around the brand proposition 'Refreshingly Simple', B Natural Coconut Cola contains Zero Caffeine, Zero Added Sugar, and just 9 kcal per serve. The launch reflects the growing demand for beverages that offer both enjoyment and better-for-you choices.

According to ITC Foods, changing consumer preferences have created a need for drinks that feel lighter while still delivering a satisfying experience. With Coconut Cola, the company aims to address this gap by creating a new beverage category, a hydrating cola that blends indulgence with wellness.

The launch also highlights B Natural's continued focus on innovation, with the brand introducing products that align with the evolving preferences of Indian consumers. Coconut Cola marks the latest addition to its portfolio of differentiated beverage offerings.

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Speaking about the launch, Mr. Vivek Kookkal, Vice President and Business Head - Dairy and Beverages, Foods Division, ITC Ltd, said:

"Coconut Cola is rooted in a simple consumer insight that indulgence does not need to be over engineered to be enjoyable. With this unique launch, we aim to encourage consumers to rediscover the value of simplicity through a thoughtfully crafted beverage experience - combining the familiar taste of cola with coconut water, we are offering an alternative that is both enjoyable and refreshingly simple"

The product has been developed in collaboration with ITC's Product Development and Life Sciences & Technology Centre (LSTC) teams. Their combined efforts have ensured that the beverage delivers the familiar cola experience while maintaining its wellness-focused proposition.

B Natural Coconut Cola is now available in a 250 ml can priced at INR 60. The product will be rolled out across leading retail outlets and quick commerce platforms in key metro cities, including Delhi, Pune, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kolkata.


Ironhill Bengaluru Launches 'The Monsoon Affair' Seasonal Dining Experience

Ironhill Bengaluru Launches 'The Monsoon Affair' Seasonal Dining Experience

By Hariharan U

Published on July 15, 2026

Ironhill Marathahalli has announced the launch of The Monsoon Affair, a seasonal culinary celebration that brings together comforting flavours, nostalgic recipes, and immersive dining experiences to mark the arrival of the monsoon in Bengaluru.

Running from July 15 to August 31, the limited-period menu has been curated to capture India's enduring love for monsoon comfort food through a selection of hearty dishes inspired by regional flavours and seasonal indulgences.

Among the highlights are the Smoky Sigdiwala Bhutta, Madras Curry, Lamb Fry, and Haleem Bun with Mutton Marag, each offering a contemporary interpretation of traditional comfort food while celebrating the warmth and richness associated with the rainy season.

Complementing the food is a selection of refreshing beverages designed for the season, alongside a monsoon-inspired ambience and interactive experiences that enhance the overall dining experience.

With The Monsoon Affair, Ironhill aims to transform the rainy season into an occasion for guests to gather, unwind, and enjoy flavourful dishes in a vibrant setting. The seasonal promotion reflects the restaurant's focus on creating themed culinary experiences that combine comfort, hospitality, and memorable moments.

The Monsoon Affair will be available at Ironhill Marathahalli until August 31, offering diners an opportunity to savour specially curated seasonal dishes throughout the monsoon.

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