Padma Awards 2025: Honoring Icons of Indian Hospitality

Padma Awards 2025: Honoring Icons of Indian Hospitality

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 28, 2025

As India celebrated its 76th Republic Day, the nation honored the recipients of the prestigious Padma Awards, recognizing their outstanding contributions across various fields. Among this year’s awardees are individuals who have left an indelible mark on the Indian hospitality and cultural sectors.

Nalli Kuppuswamy Chetti

Textile industrialist and philanthropist Nalli Kuppuswamy Chetti has been awarded the Padma Bhushan in the trade and industry category. Previously a Padma Shri awardee in 2003, Chetti’s contributions have been pivotal in elevating Indian silk to a global stage.

Taking over Nalli Silks in 1958, Chetti expanded the legacy established by his grandfather, Nalli Chinnasami Chetty, who famously wove a silk shawl for King George V in 1911. Starting with its first showroom in Chennai in 1928, Nalli Silks has grown to include outlets across India and internationally in the US, Singapore, and Canada. Over the years, its clientele has included dignitaries such as Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and legendary Carnatic singer MS Subbulakshmi.

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Beyond textiles, He is a patron of Carnatic music in Chennai, supporting venues and Margazhi music festivals. His efforts ensure these festivals remain vibrant celebrations of Chennai’s cultural essence which shapes hospitality sector in the region. Additionally, his Tamil literary worksVetrikku Moondre Padigal, Needhi Noolgalil Nirvagam, and Thyagaraya Nagar Andrum Indrum — reflect his diverse contributions to society.

Chef Damu

Chef Damodharan Kothandaraman, widely recognized as Chef Damu, has received the Padma Shri, marking him as the third chef in history to achieve this honor after Chef Imtiaz Qureshi and Chef Sanjeev Kapoor. His illustrious career spans 45 years, beginning at Taj Mumbai, and includes numerous accomplishments that have shaped India’s culinary arts.

Chef Damu, a Ph.D. holder in catering science from Madras University, is celebrated for his engaging cookery shows in Tamil and his role as a mentor in hotel management institutes. He is the President of the South India Chef’s Association (SICA) and has organized workshops and events to nurture budding chefs.

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Known for his Guinness World Record for the longest single-person cooking marathon, where he prepared 617 dishes over 24 hours and 30 minutes in 2010, Damu’s name is synonymous with culinary excellence. His books and television appearances have made him a beloved figure in households across South India.

Prashanth Prakash

Entrepreneur and venture capitalist Prashanth Prakash has been awarded the Padma Shri for his transformative contributions to India’s startup ecosystem. As a founding partner of Accel India, Prakash has been instrumental in the success of iconic startups like Flipkart, Swiggy, BookMyShow, Freshworks, and Urban Company.

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His efforts have not only revolutionized online food delivery with Swiggy but also empowered communities through initiatives such as ACT Grants and Sikshana Foundation. Prakash’s commitment to sustainability and innovation underscores the recognition of startups as a vital force in nation-building.

RG Chandramohan

RG Chandramogan, a pioneering entrepreneur in India’s dairy industry, has been awarded the Padma Shri for his significant contributions to trade and industry. From modest beginnings to steering one of India’s largest private dairy companies, Chandramogan’s journey is nothing short of inspirational.

Starting as a college dropout in 1970, Chandramogan launched a small-scale ice cream venture, which laid the foundation for Hatsun Agro Product. Today, under his leadership, Hatsun Agro stands as a titan in the dairy sector, with its products reaching millions of households across the country.

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Hatsun sources milk directly from over 450,000 farmers spread across 12,000 villages, ensuring quality while supporting the rural economy. Its brands, including Arun Ice Cream, Arokya Milk, and Hatsun Curd, have become household names in India. Arun Ice Cream, in particular, enjoys immense popularity for its wide range of flavors and quality offerings, cementing its place as one of India’s favorite ice cream brands.

Beyond business, Chandramogan is known for his philanthropic endeavors, supporting various initiatives aimed at rural development and community welfare. His vision has not only elevated India’s dairy industry but also positively impacted the lives of thousands of farmers and their families.

RG Chandramogan’s recognition with the Padma Shri highlights his role as a trailblazer in the dairy sector, blending business excellence with a commitment to societal upliftment. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and giving back to the community.

These exemplary individuals highlight the diverse contributions to India’s cultural, culinary, and economic fabric, setting benchmarks for future generations. The Padma Awards celebrate their enduring legacies and the significant impact they continue to make on society.


Enrise by Sayaji Debuts in Junagadh, Elevating Hospitality in Saurashtra

Enrise by Sayaji Debuts in Junagadh, Elevating Hospitality in Saurashtra

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 3, 2026

Sayaji Hotels has announced the launch of Enrise by Sayaji in Junagadh, marking its entry into the culturally rich Saurashtra region. Located on Bhesana Road, the 24-key property expands the brand’s Enrise portfolio and offers travellers a comfortable and well-connected base to explore one of Gujarat’s most historic destinations.

Known for its deep-rooted heritage, Junagadh blends history, culture, and architecture. The city, whose name translates to “Old Fort,” is home to the ancient Uparkot Fort, believed to date back to the 4th century BCE. It also houses the Ashokan Rock Edicts, featuring inscriptions from around 250 BCE, along with a later Sanskrit inscription by Rudradaman I. Architectural landmarks like the Mahabat Maqbara further highlight the city’s rich Nawabi-era influence.

Junagadh also serves as a gateway to some of Gujarat’s most iconic attractions. Girnar Hill stands as a major pilgrimage site for Hindus and Jains, while Gir National Park, located about 80 km away, is the last natural habitat of the Asiatic lion. Together, these destinations make the region a unique blend of wildlife, spirituality, and heritage tourism.

Enrise by Sayaji, Junagadh is designed to complement this diverse travel experience with thoughtfully planned accommodations. The property features 24 spacious 1-BHK villa-style rooms, each spread across 425 sq. ft., offering comfort, privacy, and suitability for families and longer stays.

Dining at the hotel is centred around Momentt, its multi-cuisine restaurant with 52 covers. For events and celebrations, the property offers Jewel, a 4,000 sq. ft. banquet hall that can accommodate up to 300 guests, along with the expansive Vrindavan Lawn spanning 15,500 sq. ft., ideal for hosting up to 500 guests for weddings and social gatherings.

The hotel enjoys convenient connectivity, located 15 km from Junagadh Railway Station, 55 km from Keshod Airport, and 130 km from Rajkot Airport, making it easily accessible for both leisure and business travellers.

Bharat Shingala, Owner, Enrise by Sayaji, Junagadh said, “Junagadh is a destination of immense cultural and natural significance, yet quality stay experiences have remained limited. With Enrise by Sayaji, we aim to offer travellers a space that complements the richness of the region while delivering the comfort and consistency the brand is known for.”

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Mr. Rajendra Joshi, Associate General Manager at Sayaji Hotels, added, “The Enrise brand is designed for the modern, curious traveller, and Junagadh, with its wildlife, pilgrimage routes, and historic landmarks, is an ideal fit. This launch also marks an important step in strengthening our presence in Gujarat, a key market in our growth journey.”

With the summer travel season approaching, Enrise by Sayaji, Junagadh is set to become a preferred choice for families and leisure travellers. Its spacious accommodations and proximity to key attractions make it a convenient and comfortable base for exploring the region.


Courtyard by Marriott Enters Andhra Pradesh with Tirupati Launch

Courtyard by Marriott Enters Andhra Pradesh with Tirupati Launch

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 2, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott has officially entered Andhra Pradesh with the opening of Courtyard by Marriott Tirupati, bringing its signature hospitality to one of India’s busiest spiritual destinations. The 130-key hotel marks the brand’s first presence in the state and is designed to cater to pilgrims, business travellers, and leisure guests alike.

Located in the temple city of Tirupati, home to the revered Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, the hotel benefits from strong connectivity. It is just a short 15 minutes’ drive from the railway station and around 20 minutes from Tirupati Airport, making it a convenient choice for travellers arriving from across the country. The property blends a calm and welcoming atmosphere with modern comforts, offering a stay experience that feels both relaxing and efficient.

“This opening represents an important milestone in our growth strategy in India, as we continue to expand our footprint in high-demand destinations and enter newer markets with strong travel potential”. Kiran Andicot, Senior Vice President – South Asia, Marriott International commented, “Tirupati is one of the country’s most prominent spiritual destinations, drawing significant year-round footfall, and establishing a presence here is a meaningful achievement for us. It reflects our ambition to serve a broader spectrum of guests and to bring trusted, high-quality hospitality to destinations where travel demand is both substantial and evolving. Courtyard by Marriott is well positioned to serve a destination like Tirupati, where travelers are looking for comfort, connectivity, and a stay experience that is both seamless and relevant.”

The hotel features 130 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites that focus on both comfort and functionality. With ample natural light, plush bedding, and well-equipped workspaces supported by high-speed connectivity, the spaces are created to suit both relaxation and productivity. Guests can unwind at the spa, take a dip in the outdoor pool, or maintain their fitness routine at the 24/7 gym.

Dining at the hotel brings together a variety of experiences through its three food and beverage venues. The Kitchen Collective serves as the all-day dining restaurant, offering a mix of global favourites, wellness-inspired dishes, and authentic Andhra flavours. The Spirit Society provides a stylish lounge setting with crafted cocktails and small plates, ideal for both casual meetings and evening downtime. For a more laid-back experience, Deck9 offers poolside dining with refreshing beverages and a selection of local and international bites.

The hotel also stands out as a strong venue for events and celebrations, with over 6,220 sq. ft. of banquet and meeting space. At the centre is a grand pillarless ballroom, supported by flexible venues that can host weddings, corporate meetings, conferences, and social gatherings. With modern facilities and elegant design, the property is set to become a preferred choice for large-scale events in the city.

Speaking on the opening, Samata Danday Chand, General Manager, Courtyard by Marriott Tirupati shared, "We are delighted to introduce Courtyard by Marriott to Tirupati, a city that holds immense cultural and spiritual significance. The hotel is aimed at creating an environment where great things can happen, enabling our guests to focus on their journeys, or simply relax. Connecting travelers through comfortable and innovative spaces, intuitive service and a commitment to personal fulfilment is at the foundation of what we offer at Courtyard by Marriott Tirupati, while also creating a vibrant destination for memorable gatherings.”

The hotel is part of Marriott Bonvoy, the brand’s travel programme that allows members to earn and redeem points across its wide portfolio of hotels and resorts. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, guests can also enjoy a more personalised and contactless experience during their stay.

For reservations and more information, guests can visit the official website.


The Wedding Company Partners with Shagun Vivah Utsav 2026 to Host Grand Mass Wedding in Delhi

The Wedding Company Partners with Shagun Vivah Utsav 2026 to Host Grand Mass Wedding in Delhi

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 2, 2026

The Wedding Company partnered with Shagun Vivah Utsav 2026, a large-scale mass wedding initiative held in Delhi that focuses on enabling safe and dignified marriages for women from economically vulnerable backgrounds. The ceremony took place at The Zora Convention Center, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, and included traditional rituals such as varmala, pheras, and vidaai.

The event saw the presence of Ram Nath Kovind, former President of India, Rekha Gupta, Chief Minister of Delhi, and Pujya Shri Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj, adding significance to the occasion. This year, 51 women were part of the ceremony, marking another step forward in supporting community weddings with care and respect.

As the execution partner, The Wedding Company managed the overall wedding planning for the event. Their role included handling photography for all couples, documentary coverage, selfie booths, and guest arrangements along with comforter distributions. The team also ensured smooth coordination across rituals, stage flow, guest seating, and timelines, creating a well-organised and stress-free experience for every bride.

Shagun Vivah Utsav is part of the Shagun Initiative by Ladli Foundation Trust, which works towards addressing financial and social challenges linked to marriage, including dowry pressures. Since it began in 2012 with 44 couples in Gurgaon, the initiative has supported over 2,067 women through safe and dignified community weddings.

Devendra Shastri, Founder, Laadli Foundation, shared, “We are grateful to The Wedding Company for supporting us in the planning and execution of this initiative and for ensuring that every wedding was conducted with dignity and care. Our work does not end with the wedding ceremony; we are also committed to supporting the brides through skill development and opportunities that help them build independent and dignified lives”

One of the key aspects of the programme is its strong focus on safety. This includes police verification of grooms to prevent fraud and ensure secure and respectful marriages for all participants.

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Speaking about the initiative, Pawan Gupta, CEO of The Wedding Company, said:
“Shagun Vivah Utsav represents dignity, responsibility, and community coming together for meaningful beginnings. At The Wedding Company, our goal is to bring structure and professionalism to weddings of every scale, ensuring every couple experiences a seamless, dignified, and memorable celebration. Through this partnership, we enabled families to focus on the moment while we ensured smooth execution"

The Wedding Company also highlighted that such collaborations reflect its larger vision of making professionally managed weddings more accessible and well-coordinated. With experience in planning, logistics, vendor and guest management, and on-ground execution, the company continues to support both large-scale and community-driven events.

Shagun Vivah Utsav 2026 is convened by Avdheshan G Mission, Ladli Foundation Trust, and Rashi Entertainment. The initiative brings together service, compassion, and continued support through post-marriage education and entrepreneurship opportunities, aiming to set a strong example for dignity and safety in community weddings.

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