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 LaLiT New Delhi Hosts Michelin-Star Chef Philipp Dyczek for Exclusive Culinary Showcase at OKO

The LaLiT New Delhi Hosts Michelin-Star Chef Philipp Dyczek for Exclusive Culinary Showcase at OKO

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 19, 2026

The LaLiT New Delhi recently hosted an exclusive culinary showcase at its signature Pan-Asian restaurant, OKO, featuring Michelin-starred Austrian chef Philipp Dyczek. Held over two special evenings, the intimate dining experience introduced guests to Chef Dyczek’s distinctive culinary philosophy, blending modern European techniques with Japanese precision.

Chef Dyczek, founder of Restaurant ARTIS, is recognised as one of Austria’s leading contemporary chefs. His restaurant earned its first Michelin Star in 2025 and continues to receive acclaim from global gastronomic guides. Known for his disciplined approach to ingredients, seasonality, and craftsmanship, his cuisine reflects balance, clarity, and refined elegance.

For the showcase, Chef Dyczek curated an eight-course tasting menu inspired by the Japanese Omakase philosophy, where each dish unfolded as a carefully planned progression of flavours, textures, and aromas. The experience was further elevated with premium Austrian wines, thoughtfully paired with each course.

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The culinary journey began with Bluefin Tuna O-Toro Tartlet, followed by King Crab Beignet, and a refreshing Hamachi Ceviche that balanced acidity and freshness. Guests were then served Austrian Chicken Chawanmushi, highlighting the chef’s cross-cultural approach with subtle and layered flavours.

Seafood courses featured Skrei and Red Snapper, combining European techniques with Japanese influences. The menu continued with Suckling Pig, followed by Duck paired with water spinach and green asparagus, infused with delicate Southeast Asian notes. The evening concluded with a Topfen Soufflé served with Riesling sabayon and vanilla ice cream.

A thoughtfully designed vegetarian menu was also presented, featuring dishes such as Pea and Asparagus Tartlet, Carrot and Miso Beignet, Tomato and Avocado Tartare, Burnt Eggplant with curry butter, Savoy Cabbage Sushi, and seasonal mushrooms, ending with the signature dessert.

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Speaking about the showcase, Vishal Sharma, General Manager, The LaLiT New Delhi, said:

"It was an honour for The LaLiT New Delhi to host Chef Philipp Dyczek and bring his Michelin-starred culinary artistry to OKO. Experiences like these allow our guests to explore global gastronomy at the highest level while reinforcing our commitment to offering exceptional and immersive dining experiences."

The evenings concluded on a celebratory note, with diplomats, patrons, media, and culinary enthusiasts coming together to enjoy the curated menu and lively ambience. With live music and engaging conversations, the event created a vibrant and memorable atmosphere for all attendees.

Presented in collaboration with Chef’s Table India, the exclusive two-night pop-up welcomed guests for an intimate Chef’s Table experience. The showcase further reinforced OKO’s position as one of Delhi’s leading destinations for elevated international dining and global culinary collaborations.


Naked & Famous Celebrates International Whiskey Day with Signature Cocktails

Naked & Famous Celebrates International Whiskey Day with Signature Cocktails

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 19, 2026

Naked & Famous, known as the first of its kind octagonal bar, is celebrating its first International Whiskey Day with a special showcase of two whiskey-based cocktails, The Showgirl and 3 Acts of Citrus.

The celebration begins with The Showgirl, a cocktail crafted using Woodford Reserve Bourbon Whiskey, maraschino cherry, mandarin orange, and aromatic bitters. The drink carries a classic character with notes of sour mash, fruitiness, cherry, and zesty citrus, balanced by a bittersweet depth. While it stays true to traditional flavours, it also brings a subtle twist that adds to its appeal.

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The second offering, 3 Acts of Citrus, is made with Jameson Irish Whiskey, blended with tri-citrus marmalade and green lime. This cocktail delivers a bright and refreshing profile, with tart citrus notes complemented by a clean malt and whiskey base, creating a smooth and balanced finish.

Together, these cocktails reflect Naked & Famous’s approach to reimagining familiar drink styles through refined technique and flavour. The bar presents a fresh yet approachable way for guests to experience whiskey without moving too far from classic preferences.

Marking the occasion, Naked & Famous invites guests to raise a toast with The Showgirl and 3 Acts of Citrus, celebrating whiskey through two distinct and thoughtfully crafted creations.


Nashville Fried Chicken Has Landed in Pune and the Crispy Revolution Is Here

Nashville Fried Chicken Has Landed in Pune and the Crispy Revolution Is Here

By Hariharan U

Published on March 18, 2026

Pune's fried chicken scene just got a serious upgrade. Nashville Fried Chicken, the bold comfort food concept from Zorawar Kalra and Massive Restaurants Pvt Ltd, has officially arrived in the city, bringing the same crispy, flavour-packed experience that has already built a loyal following across Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai.

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This isn't your standard fried chicken chain. Nashville Fried Chicken has a very specific approach to getting it right, and the details matter. The chicken is massaged with robust spices and marinated for 18 hours before it's ever fried. The buns are proofed for 18 hours to achieve that soft, cloud-like texture that holds up to the fillings without falling apart. And the sauces, including Comeback Sauce, Secret Sauce, Honey Mustard, and Hot n Spicy, are all made in-house. Every element of the experience has been thought through, which is exactly what you'd expect from the team behind Louis Burger and Slyce Pizza.

The menu covers a lot of ground and does it well. The signature Fried Chicken Bucket with Peri Peri and Hot n Spicy sauces is the go-to for those who want heat and plenty of it. Glazed Chicken Tenders and Wings bring a slightly different texture to the table, while the Nashville Style Fried Chicken Burger, finished with spicy slaw and a dusting of paprika, is the standout sandwich on the menu. The Big Cluck Burger, Tandoori Fried Chicken Burger, and Hot American Summer round out the non-vegetarian options, while Pretty Boy Fries, Clucking Coop Wrap, and Fiery Double Chicken Wrap give you more reasons to order generously. Vegetarian options are also on the menu for those who want something from the spread.

For delivery, the packaging has been specifically designed to keep the chicken crispy throughout the journey, which matters more than it sounds when you're ordering fried chicken at home or at the office.

Zorawar Kalra shared his enthusiasm for the Pune launch. "Having seen the love from our patrons across India for Louis Burger, we are thrilled to now bring the bold flavours of Nashville Fried Chicken to Pune. Our team has worked tirelessly to develop a menu that combines global culinary expertise with the authentic indulgence of great fried chicken. With Pune's vibrant food culture and love for comfort food, we are excited to offer fried chicken enthusiasts a truly exceptional experience that they can enjoy from the comfort of their homes."

Nashville Fried Chicken is available on Zomato and Swiggy in Pune.

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