NRAI Mumbai Chapter Offers 20% “Democracy Discount” to Encourage Voter Participation

NRAI Mumbai Chapter Offers 20% “Democracy Discount” to Encourage Voter Participation

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on November 20, 2024

The National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI) Mumbai Chapter has launched a unique initiative aimed at boosting voter turnout in the upcoming general elections. In an effort to engage the city's urban voters, NRAI has introduced the "Democracy Discount," a 20% discount on dine-in bills at over 50 participating restaurants across Mumbai. This offer will be available on November 20th and 21st, 2024, for voters who can show proof of voting.

The initiative comes at a pivotal time, as Chief Election Commissioner Shri Rajiv Kumar has expressed concerns over low voter participation in urban areas and emphasized the importance of involving young voters in the election process. By offering an incentive, the NRAI hopes to motivate residents of Mumbai, particularly younger voters, to cast their ballots and make their voices heard.

Rachel Goenka, Head of the NRAI Mumbai Chapter, highlighted the importance of the initiative, saying, “This initiative by the NRAI aims to inspire our young urban voters to actively engage in the voting process, celebrating our country’s vibrant and robust democratic framework, one of the largest in the world. I extend heartfelt thanks to all the participating brands and restaurants for enthusiastically joining this cause and encouraging young voters to make the most of this unique offer.”

The 20% discount is available to dine-in customers who present a voter ID showing Mumbai residency along with an inked finger as proof of voting. Over 50 well-known restaurants in Mumbai are participating in this drive, including popular spots such as Silver Beach Cafe, Nom Nom Khar, The Sassy Spoon, Bonobo, and The Bombay Canteen. This offer provides voters with an additional incentive to visit their favorite restaurants while contributing to the democratic process.

Participating Restaurants Include:

1. Silver Beach Cafe

2. Nom Nom, Khar

3. Estella

4. Akina

5. The Sassy Spoon

6. Saz Cafe

7. Pings

8. Nksha

9. Tamak

10. Taftoon

11. Lyla

12. EVE - Powai & Worli

13. Donna deli

14. Shy

15. Bonobo

16. Jamjar Diner

17. SOCIAL - All Outlets

18. SMOKE HOUSE DELI - All Outlets

19. ⁠Lord of the Drinks

20. ⁠Not Just TAMASHA

21. ⁠GARNET

22. ⁠FLYING SAUCER

23. ⁠Steps Cafe, Bandra

24. ⁠Great Punjab, Dadar

25. ⁠Pints of Wisdom, BKC

26. ⁠Oh So Silly Khar

27. ⁠Mirchi & Mime, Powai & Thane

28. Madeira & Mime, Powai

29. Zima

30. Shawarma Factory

31. ⁠JOSHH: Indian Eat Street

32. The Clearing House

33. ⁠TAT-Vikhroli

34. ⁠Que Sera Sera-Andheri

35. ⁠Blah ! - BKC and Santacruz outlet

36. Saffron & Soy, Juhu

37. ⁠Lord Of The Drinks, Powai

38. ⁠Farzi Cafe Oberoi

39. ⁠Pa Pa Ya (all outlets)

40. ⁠Mainland China

41. ⁠Asia Kitchen by Mainland China.

42. ⁠Episode.

43. ⁠Bohoba.

44. ⁠Global Grill, Malad.

45. ⁠Gong

46.  Aegyo - Cafe & Bakehouse

47. ⁠The Bombay Canteen

48. ⁠O Pedro

49. ⁠Veronica's

50. ⁠Bombay Sweet Shop

51.  Hakkasan

52.  Yauatcha

53. Nara Thai

54. CinCin

55. Ode

56. Waarsa

With such an extensive list of participating restaurants, the initiative is expected to encourage a large number of people to vote while enjoying a meal out. This drive is part of NRAI’s ongoing efforts to promote social responsibility and community engagement.

About NRAI

Founded in 1982, the National Restaurant Association of India is the primary voice of the Indian restaurant industry, representing over 500,000 restaurants. The NRAI aims to promote and strengthen the food service sector in India, with a broad network that spans across cities and states. The organization supports its members with initiatives that enhance the growth and sustainability of the industry.


Fine Acers Expands to North India, Eyes INR 100 Crore Revenue from Delhi-NCR

Fine Acers Expands to North India, Eyes INR 100 Crore Revenue from Delhi-NCR

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 28, 2026

Fine Acers, India's pioneer branded luxury resort developer and a leader in the sale-and-leaseback investment model, has expanded its footprint in North India with the inauguration of its new office in Gurugram, Delhi-NCR, on 23rd July 2026. The move follows the company's recent announcement of its London office and marks another step in its growth strategy.

The new office was inaugurated by Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director – Eurasia, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, in the presence of investors, business leaders and industry stakeholders. The expansion further strengthens Fine Acers' collaboration with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts while enhancing its presence in one of India's key real estate markets.

Located at DLF Corporate Greens, Gurugram, the office will serve as Fine Acers' North India hub, helping the company engage more closely with investors looking for professionally managed, hospitality-led real estate opportunities.

Fine Acers' business model combines globally recognised hotel brands, professionally managed hospitality operations and premium resort developments. Through its sale-and-leaseback model, investors can own branded resort residences and lease them back to a professional hospitality operator, enabling them to earn rental income without managing day-to-day operations.

Speaking ahead of the inauguration, Dinesh Yadav, Founder & Managing Director, Fine Acers, said:

"The launch of our Gurugram office marks an exciting new chapter for Fine Acers. Delhi-NCR has emerged as one of India's strongest markets for luxury real estate investments, with growing demand for professionally managed, experience-led assets. Our sale-and-leaseback model offers investors the opportunity to own premium resort residences while benefiting from professionally managed hospitality operations and rental returns. Establishing a presence in Gurugram allows us to be closer to our investors and strengthen our presence in North India."

He further added: "This is our second long-term investment in infrastructure development post our new office announcement in London. We are expecting more than INR 100 crore revenue from Delhi-NCR market."

The expansion comes at a time when demand for branded residences, managed holiday homes and experience-driven real estate investments continues to grow across India. As more investors seek professionally managed, income-generating assets, Fine Acers aims to strengthen its position through its hospitality-focused development model.

The Gurugram office will also help the company showcase its portfolio of branded luxury resort developments while increasing awareness of its sale-and-leaseback investment proposition across North India. The inauguration brought together key investors and industry leaders, reflecting the growing momentum of hospitality-led real estate and Fine Acers' vision for the future of luxury resort ownership.


Taj Retains World's Strongest Luxury Hotel Brand Title for Fifth Consecutive Year

Taj Retains World's Strongest Luxury Hotel Brand Title for Fifth Consecutive Year

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 26, 2026

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India's largest hospitality company, has announced that its iconic brand Taj has been recognised as the World's Strongest Luxury Hotel Brand in Brand Finance UK's 'Hotels 50 2026' report. This marks the fifth consecutive year that Taj has received the prestigious recognition from the global brand valuation consultancy.

Sharing his thoughts on the achievement, Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, IHCL, said, “For over a century, Taj has been the embodiment of Indian hospitality for the world. The dual honour of being India's Strongest Brand and the World's Strongest Luxury Hotel Brand, reflects the strength of Taj's legacy and its continued relevance to travellers across generations and geographies.”

He added, “This recognition is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our 50,000+ associates, who continue to serve with the values that have shaped our identity.”

According to the Brand Finance 'Hotels 50 2026' report, Taj secured a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 93.5 out of 100 along with an AAA+ brand strength rating. The report also noted that the brand's value increased by 32% to USD878 million, helping Taj retain its position as the World's Strongest Luxury Hotel Brand.

Brand Finance highlighted that as luxury travellers increasingly look for authentic and experience-led stays, Taj continues to stand out through its unique combination of Indian heritage, personalised hospitality, and timeless luxury. The report also recognised the brand's ability to deliver meaningful guest experiences while preserving its cultural identity on the global hospitality stage.

Commenting on the recognition, Mr. David Haigh, Chairman & CEO, Brand Finance, said, “Taj’s continued recognition as the world’s strongest luxury hotel brand is a remarkable achievement. With an exceptional Brand Strength Index score of 93.5, Taj demonstrates how a brand can build global stature while remaining deeply rooted in its cultural identity. Its distinctive blend of Indian heritage, timeless luxury and personalised hospitality continues to create powerful guest affinity and sets an important benchmark for the global luxury hospitality industry.”

Today, Taj has a portfolio of 150 hotels across 14 countries, spanning grand palaces, city hotels, beach and spa resorts, wildlife safaris, and serviced residences, further strengthening its position as one of the world's leading luxury hospitality brands.


Gulshan Group to Invest ₹1,000 Crore in Premium Housing Project at Wave City

Gulshan Group to Invest ₹1,000 Crore in Premium Housing Project at Wave City

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 24, 2026

Gulshan Group, one of North India's leading real estate developers, has announced the launch of Gulshan Empire, a premium residential project at Wave City. The company will invest approximately ₹1,000 crore in the development, which is expected to generate sales realisation of over ₹1,200 crore.

Spread across 5.5 acres (22,505 sq. m.), the single-phase project will feature 500 residential units, further strengthening the developer's presence in the NCR housing market. The project has been designed to meet the growing demand for premium homes that combine quality, comfort and long-term value.

While Gulshan Group is known for its luxury developments, Gulshan Empire has been positioned as a premium residential offering for homebuyers looking for the brand's signature construction quality, thoughtful design and reliability at a more accessible price point. The project has been primarily planned for end users, with a focus on spacious homes, integrated communities and sustainable value.

Commenting on the launch, Deepak Kapoor, Director, Gulshan Group, said:

"The residential market continues to witness strong demand from discerning homebuyers who value quality, thoughtful planning, and long-term value creation. Gulshan Empire reflects our commitment to developing communities that respond to these evolving aspirations while maintaining the construction standards and design philosophy that define the Gulshan brand. Our investment of ₹1,000 crore also underscores our long-term confidence in Wave City as an emerging residential destination supported by improving infrastructure and sustained end-user demand."

The development will be completed in a single phase, with delivery scheduled in line with the RERA timeline of 2031. The project will be financed through a combination of internal accruals, financial institutions and customer sales proceeds.

In the first phase, the company has launched around 9 lakh sq. ft. of residential space. Buyers can choose from 3 BHK residences with a helper room, starting at ₹2.20 crore, and 4 BHK residences with a helper room, starting at ₹3 crore. According to the company, the project has received an encouraging response since its launch, reflecting continued demand for premium homes in well-connected urban locations.

Speaking about the project, Yukti Nagpal, Director, Gulshan Group, said:

"Today's homebuyers are making more informed decisions, with equal emphasis on quality, design, location and the overall living experience. Gulshan Empire has been envisioned as a premium residential community that combines low-density planning, expansive green spaces, private garden residences and contemporary lifestyle amenities while staying true to Gulshan Group's legacy of delivering thoughtfully designed developments. We believe the project addresses the aspirations of families looking for homes that offer both everyday comfort and enduring value."

With Gulshan Empire, the company aims to strengthen its premium residential portfolio while addressing the evolving preferences of homebuyers seeking modern living spaces backed by quality construction and long-term value.

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