NDFC(I) announces the 2nd Edition of MEWA 2025, a three-day exhibition for Nuts and Dry Fruits

NDFC(I) announces the 2nd Edition of MEWA 2025, a three-day exhibition for Nuts and Dry Fruits

By Author

Published on January 23, 2025

The Nuts and Dry Fruits Council of India (NDFC[I]) proudly announces the 2nd edition of MEWA 2025, a groundbreaking three-day B2B exhibition dedicated to the nuts and dry fruits industry. Scheduled from February 12th to 14th, 2025, at the Jio Convention Center in Mumbai, this event promises to redefine the industry’s trajectory by fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth.

Key Highlights of MEWA 2025:

  • Over 300 exhibitors from 50+ countries, including major markets like the USA, Chile, Iran, Turkey, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Australia.

  • Expansive exhibition space of 10,000+ square meters showcasing diverse offerings.

  • Focus on addressing key industry challenges and opportunities, particularly in the Indian market.

  • Projections of the dry fruits market reaching $12 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 18%.

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Industry Insights 

Speaking at the press conference, Mr. Yash Gawdi, Co-Chairperson of MEWA 2025, highlighted the importance of the event, stating: “The dry fruits market is set to witness exponential growth, driven by increased consumer awareness and demand for health-conscious products. MEWA 2025 aims to tackle industry challenges, enhance visibility, and establish global partnerships.”

Mr. Gunjan Jain, President of NDFC(I), emphasized the need for focused efforts in streamlining the sector: “India is among the top 10 producers of walnuts, with Kerala and Karnataka leading in cashew production. However, issues like land fragmentation and high interest rates hinder large-scale farming. MEWA 2025 is a pivotal initiative to bring industry stakeholders together and address these challenges through innovation and collaboration.”

Building on the Success of the 1st Edition

The inaugural MEWA event in 2024 was a resounding success, attracting 6,000 visitors and featuring 130+ exhibitors from 20 countries. With an impressive 80% business conversion rate, MEWA 2024 set a high benchmark for trade and networking opportunities. The 2nd edition aims to elevate these achievements, offering an even more vibrant platform for showcasing products, sharing insights, and forging partnerships.

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Trends in Health-Conscious Consumption

Highlighting current consumer trends, Mr. Deepak Agarwal, Secretary of NDFC(I), remarked: “As 91% of Indians seek nutritious alternatives, the demand for nuts and dry fruits continues to surge. MEWA 2025 is designed to bridge gaps in the industry, addressing consumer needs with innovative and sustainable solutions.”

To promote health-conscious choices, MEWA 2025 will collaborate with Indian cricketers and Bollywood stars to endorse the benefits of nuts and dry fruits, aiming to inspire younger generations toward healthier lifestyles.

Industry Initiatives and Future Outlook

MEWA 2025 will also focus on sustainability and production enhancement. Key initiatives include:

  • Walnut plantation drives in Chakrata, Uttarakhand.

  • Collaboration with AICA to sign an MOU for cashew plantation and plant distribution.

  • Strategies to boost international participation and streamline industry practices.

NDFC(I) remains committed to unifying the sector and providing a robust platform for growth, innovation, and sustainability. “The goal is not only to elevate the industry but also to celebrate the diversity and richness of nuts, dates, and dry fruits in India,” added Mr. Jain.

About MEWA 2025

Website: https://mewaindia.in/

MEWA 2025 is an international platform spotlighting the latest advancements in research, innovation, production, trade, and consumption within the nuts and dry fruits sector. With participants from 50+ countries, 300+ exhibitors, and 10,000+ attendees, MEWA 2025 promises to be the premier showcase of the industry’s finest offerings.

About NDFC(I)

Website: https://ndfci.org/

The Nuts and Dry Fruits Council of India (NDFC[I]) serves as the unified voice for stakeholders across the nuts, dry fruits, seeds, raisins, berries, and dates industries in India. From growers to processors and distributors, NDFC(I) fosters unity and collaboration to drive progress and innovation.

Join us at MEWA 2025 to be part of this transformative journey, shaping the future of the nuts and dry fruits industry while celebrating its vibrant heritage.


The Dark Room Unveils ‘Beer Fest’ to Toast Community, Music, and Good Times

The Dark Room Unveils ‘Beer Fest’ to Toast Community, Music, and Good Times

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 2, 2025

The Dark Room by Wynnd Hotels has launched its much-awaited ‘Beer Fest’, a high-energy celebration that blends the love for craft brews with the joy of shared moments. Set in the heart of Galaxy Blue Sapphire Mall, Greater Noida West, the month-long event runs daily from 3:00pm to 8:00pm, starting July 1, 2025.

Positioned as a vibrant escape for after-work chills or afternoon hangouts, the Beer Fest is designed to bring people together with music, laughter, and enticing offers on brews and bites. Whether you're catching up with friends or looking for a laid-back yet exciting vibe, The Dark Room delivers a perfect blend of affordability and indulgence.

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The curated menu features value-rich combos tailored for all kinds of beer lovers—from the light sipper to the full-fledged enthusiast. Guests can enjoy:

  • 2 Beers + Nachos

  • 3 Beers + Starter 

  • 6-Beer Bucket + 2 Starters

  • 10 Beers + Veg/Non-Veg Platter

The event promises a diverse lineup of Indian and international beer brands, paired with crowd-favourite finger foods and starters, making it a complete gastronomic experience. All combos are subject to government taxes and a 10% service fee, maintaining transparency in billing.

Himanshu Sapra, Co-founder of The Dark Room, shared his thoughts on the festival:

“The Beer Festival is not just about drinks—it’s about community, energy, and the magic of shared experiences. We’ve seen the nightlife culture slowly morph into a bland, over-styled version of what it once was. At The Dark Room, we’re reclaiming that culture—the loud music, the intimate conversations over beer, the thrill of the unknown. This festival is a tribute to that original spirit.”

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Alongside the irresistible beer combos, guests can expect live DJ sets, vibrant music lineups, and an atmosphere that brings people closer—capturing the very soul of nightlife. The mission? Not just to pour beer, but to pour memories that linger long after the night ends.

With its urban-chic setting, signature mood lighting, and electric energy, The Dark Room’s Beer Fest is a must-visit this season for anyone in Delhi-NCR looking to celebrate beer, people, and music.


Daawat-e-Challenge at Omaxe Chowk: Chandni Chowk’s Street Food Legacy Comes Alive

Daawat-e-Challenge at Omaxe Chowk: Chandni Chowk’s Street Food Legacy Comes Alive

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 30, 2025

Delhi’s food capital, Chandni Chowk, is ready to stir up the appetite of the city with a celebration like no other. Omaxe Chowk is bringing the spotlight back to Old Delhi’s legendary flavours with ‘Daawat-e-Challenge’, a two-day food-eating competition to be held on June 28 and 29, 2025, at the popular Dawatpur Food Court.

Celebrating the rich heritage of Delhi’s culinary past, the event is designed as an immersive, high-energy food fest where over 100 teams from across Delhi-NCR will compete for prizes, pride, and of course—plates full of iconic street food.

The competition will unfold in multiple spicy and savoury rounds. On Day 1, participants will begin with Round 1, where 20–25 teams will take on the challenge of quickly finishing Golgappe, Dahi Bhalla, and Tikki in just a couple of minutes.

Winners will then advance to Round 2, a test of speed and spice tolerance with Paranthas, Kachori, and Matar Kulcha. The top teams will battle it out in the Grand Finale on Day 2, where a massive Grand Thali Challenge awaits. This round will push appetites and timing to the limit in a 5–7 minute showdown.

To honour the champions of this gastronomic showdown, exciting prizes are on the table:

  •  First Prize – ₹50,000

  • Second Prize – ₹30,000

  •  Third Prize – ₹20,000

Participants will also receive exclusive food vouchers, turning their eating efforts into a delicious win. The competition will feature dishes prepared by well-known food brands at Omaxe Chowk, such as:

  • Jung Bahadur Kachori

  • Kuremal’s Kulfi

  • Chaat Town

  • Gaya Prasad – Paranthe Wali Gali

  • Amritsari Express

  • Ghoomar

  • Cafe Chennai

From crispy snacks to rich desserts, the event is not only a contest but a true celebration of Chandni Chowk’s legendary food culture.

Speaking about the initiative, Jatin Goel, Executive Director, Omaxe Group, said:

“Omaxe Chowk has always aimed to revive and celebrate the timeless charm of Old Delhi’s culinary traditions. Through Daawat-e-Challenge, we are creating an interactive platform that brings the community together in a fun and culturally rooted way. We are excited to welcome participants and spectators to what promises to be a spirited and flavourful event.”

The contest will be open to teams of two, with a small entry fee per team. The format encourages teamwork and community participation, making it as much about shared memories as it is about winning.

With the Daawat-e-Challenge, Omaxe Chowk is once again reinforcing its position as a cultural and commercial landmark in Delhi. From golgappas to kulchas, the event promises laughter, flavour, fun, and fierce competition — all rooted in the timeless magic of Old Delhi’s street food. So whether you're in it to win it or just there to savour the vibe, Daawat-e-Challenge is where Delhi’s appetite meets its heart.


ibis India Partners with Chef Sanjyot Keer to Elevate Dining at Spice It

ibis India Partners with Chef Sanjyot Keer to Elevate Dining at Spice It

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 29, 2025

ibis India has announced an exciting new collaboration with renowned chef and culinary creator Sanjyot Keer, aimed at transforming the guest dining experience across its Spice It restaurants nationwide. This strategic partnership is part of ibis India’s broader initiative to refresh its food and beverage offerings and resonate more deeply with the evolving tastes of today’s travellers.

Founder of Your Food Lab, Chef Sanjyot Keer is celebrated for his unique storytelling and modern interpretations of Indian cuisine. With over two million followers on Instagram and collaborations with global and Indian icons like Ed Sheeran, Ajay Devgn, and Sourav Ganguly, Keer’s dynamic culinary sensibility makes him the perfect partner to infuse ibis India’s dining with fresh energy and creativity.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Chef Sanjyot Keer in this bold step forward for our dining experiences. His creative approach and cultural relevance perfectly reflect the ibis brand ethos. This partnership redefines what guests can expect from food and beverage at an economy hotel – approachable yet innovative cuisine served with heart,” said Tejus Jose, Director of Operations, ibis & ibis Styles India.

Sharing his excitement, Chef Keer added, “Partnering with ibis India is a wonderful opportunity to bring my culinary vision to life on a national scale. The menu we’ve created blends familiar Indian flavours with a global perspective, resulting in a collection of dishes that are comforting, imaginative, and made to spark conversation. I look forward to guests across the country enjoying this new dining experience.”

This collaboration reinforces ibis India’s commitment to delivering multi-sensory, memorable guest experiences that go beyond the usual expectations of economy hotels. Whether travelling for work or leisure, guests at Spice It can now look forward to a menu that’s thoughtfully crafted to connect people through great food, bold flavours, and a sense of shared enjoyment.

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