MEWA India 2025 Kicks Off in Mumbai, Showcasing a $8 Billion Nuts & Dry Fruits Industry

MEWA India 2025 Kicks Off in Mumbai, Showcasing a $8 Billion Nuts & Dry Fruits Industry

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 15, 2025

MEWA India 2025, the country’s largest B2B exhibition dedicated to the nuts and dry fruits industry, was inaugurated today at the Jio Convention Centre in Mumbai. Organized by the Nuts & Dry Fruits Council of India (NDFC[I]), the event brings together over 300 exhibitors and industry representatives from 25+ countries, covering an expansive 10,000+ square meters of exhibition space.

Following the success of MEWA 2024, which drew 6,000+ visitors and 130+ exhibitors, this year’s event anticipates over 10,000 attendees. Key industry players, including Crain Walnut, Wonderful Pistachios, Kimia Dates, and Blue Diamond, have returned, reflecting the exhibition’s growing influence.

Industry Leaders Set the Vision

The event was inaugurated with an insightful panel discussion and an engaging culinary showcase, highlighting India's diverse nut and dry fruit offerings.

Delivering the keynote address, Smt. Smriti Irani, Former Union Cabinet Minister, Government of India, acknowledged MEWA’s contribution to the sector. She highlighted the nuts & dry fruits industry’s ₹56,000 crore impact on the Indian economy and expressed optimism about expanding the council’s membership, stating,
"I am proud to be part of the celebration of the Nut and Dry Fruit Council of India and meet with INC partners. Today, the council has 800 members, but I hope to see this number double in the coming year."

NDFC(I) CEO Col. Nitin Sehgal outlined the council’s latest initiatives, including a walnut and cashew plantation drive aimed at boosting domestic production and supporting Indian farmers. He also emphasized the council's efforts to empower women in the industry by increasing leadership opportunities.

NDFC(I) President Mr. Gunjan Jain reiterated the council’s ambitious goals, stating,
"Today marks a significant milestone for our industry as we unite under the Nuts & Dry Food Council, representing an $8 billion industry with a vision to double in the next few years. Our goal is to promote the health benefits of nuts and dry fruits while fostering industry growth and collaboration."

A Hub for Industry Collaboration

MEWA India 2025 serves as a vital networking platform for suppliers, traders, and manufacturers. With representatives from countries like the USA, Iran, Chile, Turkey, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Australia, the exhibition facilitates global partnerships and trade opportunities.

NDFC(I) Secretary Mr. Deepak Agarwal highlighted the strategic importance of MEWA, stating,
"While we have the best infrastructure and resources, it’s the partnerships and business deals forged here that will drive our industry forward."

Day one of the trade show concluded with an electrifying Bollywood Night, featuring a live performance by popular singer Jonita Gandhi.

Building on MEWA 2024’s Success

Last year, MEWA 2024, inaugurated by Shri Om Birla, saw 6000+ visitors and 130+ exhibitors from 20 countries. This year, with an even broader international presence and a high conversion rate from previous editions, MEWA 2025 is set to further solidify its position as the premier platform for the nuts and dry fruits industry.

With a strong focus on market expansion, knowledge sharing, and industry collaboration, the event is poised to drive new milestones for India’s nuts and dry fruits sector.

About MEWA || https://mewaindia.in/ 

MEWA 2025 is an international platform for the nuts and dry fruits industry. The 2nd edition of MEWA 2025 will feature participants from over 25 countries, with 300+ exhibitors and 10000+ participants spotlighting the latest advancements in research, innovation, production, trade, and consumption within the nuts and dry fruits sector. From groundbreaking technologies and sustainable practices to emerging market trends, the event will be a premier showcase of the industry's finest offerings.

About NDFC(I) || https://ndfci.org/

NDFC(I) proudly stands as the unified voice for everyone in the Nuts, Dry Fruits, Seeds, Raisins, Berries, and Dates Industry in India. Its mission is to be the driving force that uplifts and empowers every facet of this vibrant sector. From growers to processors to distributors, NDFC(I) is dedicated to fostering unity and collaboration.


Monkey Bar Bengaluru Refreshes Menu with Comfort Classics and Global Twists

Monkey Bar Bengaluru Refreshes Menu with Comfort Classics and Global Twists

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 12, 2025

Bengaluru’s favourite urban hangout just got tastier:

Monkey Bar on Museum Road has introduced a new menu — staying true to its spirit while dishing out bold flavours, comfort bites, and international flair. From bar snacks to hearty mains, this refreshed menu adds new favourites to an already vibrant food scene.

Still housed in its signature high-ceilinged space with warm lighting and a buzz of familiar playlists, Monkey Bar remains a go-to for casual lunches, spontaneous dinners, and those long evenings that stretch into the night.

New on the Menu

The update brings a mix of old-school comfort and fresh global flavours. Whether you're into small plates or classic mains, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

Some of the new highlights include:

  • Tuna Cutlet and Classic Paneer Tikka – starters with nostalgic appeal.

  • Chicken Tsukune – Japanese-style skewers that bring izakaya charm.

  • Cheese Burger – a timeless favourite done right.

  • Hariyali Fish Tikka – herb-marinated, perfectly grilled and fresh.

  • Hummus & Pita – a Mediterranean must-have.

  • Loaded Keema Wedges – a spiced Indian take on cheesy indulgence.

  • Military Mutton Biryani – aromatic, slow-cooked and flavour-packed.

  • Mutton Kofta & Appam – a fusion of South Indian and Mughlai richness.

These additions join Monkey Bar’s well-loved staples like comfort bowls, flatbreads, street food-inspired snacks, and its fun mix of cocktails and craft drinks.

Bengaluru’s Living Room, Now More Delicious

Monkey Bar isn’t just a gastropub, it’s a slice of Bengaluru life. It’s where old friends reunite, new plans are born, and spontaneous evenings unfold. The updated menu strengthens its status as a neighbourhood favourite that evolves with the city while keeping its soul intact.

With the right mix of nostalgia, innovation, and good food, Monkey Bar invites you to come hungry  and stay a little longer.

Fact Sheet

  • Address: First Floor, The Museum, No.1, Museum Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka 56000.
  • Timings: Open Daily – 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM.

Blue Tokai Teams Up with Ambrosia Gulf to Enter GCC Market, Debuts in UAE

Blue Tokai Teams Up with Ambrosia Gulf to Enter GCC Market, Debuts in UAE

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 11, 2025

India’s largest and fastest-growing specialty coffee brand, Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, is making its way to the Gulf. In a strategic move, Blue Tokai has partnered with Ambrosia Gulf, which will serve as its master franchisee for the GCC, starting with a flagship launch in the United Arab Emirates. This marks the brand’s first official foray into the Middle East.

With over 175 cafés across India and an international footprint in Tokyo, this partnership is a key milestone for Blue Tokai as it looks to bring its signature farm-to-cup coffee experience to a new audience.

Ambrosia Gulf, part of the Ambrosia Foods Group and backed by mid-market investment firm Pulsar Capital, will lead the expansion. The firm is already known for operating Papa Johns in India (with its first outlet set for September 2025) and managing Biryani By Kilo in the GCC, underlining its strong cross-border brand management capabilities.

“We’re excited to bring Blue Tokai to the UAE and share its incredible coffee story with the region,” said Vish Narain, Executive Chairman of Ambrosia Gulf. “We’re focused on building brands that prioritize quality, authenticity, and customer experience — values that Blue Tokai exemplifies.”

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Echoing this sentiment, Matt Chitranjan, Co-Founder and CEO of Blue Tokai, said, “It’s an exciting time for us as we grow beyond India into a market that appreciates traceability, craft, and community. Ambrosia Gulf’s operational expertise and deep local insights make them the perfect partners for this journey.”

Adding to this, Shivam Shahi, COO of Blue Tokai, shared, “Partnering with a group that already operates leading food brands across India and the GCC gives us confidence as we scale internationally. This isn’t just expansion — it’s about building a regionally aligned presence while staying true to our values.”

Beyond launching cafés, the partnership also aims to introduce Blue Tokai’s FMCG offerings to the GCC, tapping into HoReCa (Hotels, Restaurants, Cafés) and direct-to-consumer channels, thereby significantly broadening the brand’s reach.

The first Blue Tokai café in the UAE is expected to open by Q4 2025. Coffee lovers can look forward to experiencing Blue Tokai’s celebrated single-estate coffees, manual brewing styles, and a transparent, craftsmanship-driven café environment.


Namak Unveils New Menu Curated by Chef Kishor Singh, Fusing Timeless Indian Flavours with Modern Flair

Namak Unveils New Menu Curated by Chef Kishor Singh, Fusing Timeless Indian Flavours with Modern Flair

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 11, 2025

Namak Indian Restaurant & Bar, a beloved culinary spot in Greenville for soulful Indian fare, has launched an exciting new menu curated by Sous Chef Kishor Singh. The refreshed menu is a vibrant celebration of India’s rich culinary landscape, seamlessly blending traditional flavours with a touch of modern sophistication.

Chef Kishor Singh, renowned for his deep respect for regional Indian cuisine and innovative approach, has thoughtfully reimagined both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The ‘Veg Entrées’ now spotlight regional nuances with creations like Sagg Paneer Pasanda, tandoor-charred Tandoori Paneer Makhni, and the comforting Dum Aloo Banarasi. Popular classics such as Dal Makhni, Raw Mango Curry, and Malai Kofta return with subtle, refined updates, staying true to their authentic roots.

For non-vegetarian lovers, the menu doesn’t disappoint. From the universally adored Butter Chicken to the fiery Laal Maas, each dish is a testament to India’s diverse flavour profiles. Highlights include Old Delhi Mutton Nihari, Prawn Mango Curry, and the coastal-inspired Fish Moilee in a delicate coconut gravy.

“This menu is not just about food, but about storytelling—each dish reflects a part of India’s culinary journey,” shares Chef Singh, whose expertise brings together age-old techniques and contemporary tastes.

Crafted using premium ingredients and traditional spice blends, Namak’s new menu encapsulates the warmth of Indian hospitality while inviting diners to embark on a journey of culinary discovery.

With its elegant ambiance, attentive service, and now an even more enticing menu, Namak Indian Restaurant & Bar continues to solidify its place as a must-visit dining destination in Greenville.

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