Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan marked the start of the festive season with a Mediterranean-inspired Cake Mixing Ceremony, blending tradition with creativity in a celebration filled with warmth, joy, and togetherness. Known for offering thoughtful guest experiences, the hotel reimagined the classic Christmas ritual through Mediterranean influences, a culture known for its emphasis on community, abundance, and shared happiness.

Guests, corporate partners, and team members gathered to celebrate in an atmosphere filled with cheerful energy. Long banquet tables were arranged with a rich selection of dry fruits, candied peels, nuts, and select spirits. Adding a Mediterranean flavour, the mix featured figs, dates, apricots, prunes, pistachios, almonds, and lemon zest, ingredients symbolising prosperity, warmth, and festive abundance.

The aromatic mixture prepared during the ceremony will be left to mature in the coming weeks before it is transformed into traditional Christmas plum cakes and festive treats. These seasonal offerings will soon be available at MoMo Café, the hotel’s popular bakery outlet.

The event was hosted by Jitendra Thakur, Director of Food & Beverage, who guided guests through each step of the ritual, from stirring the mixture clockwise to making heartfelt wishes for the year ahead. His warm hospitality captured the spirit of gratitude and optimism that defines the festive season.

Adding to the evening’s charm was a stunning floating dining setup at the poolside, creating a beautiful visual highlight. Guests enjoyed a Mediterranean-inspired culinary showcase, live music, and an engaging flair bartending act, all of which elevated the mood and created a memorable festive experience.

Speaking on the occasion, Amol More, General Manager, said, “Our Cake Mixing Ceremony symbolizes the spirit of hope and togetherness that defines the festive season. This year’s Mediterranean inspiration celebrates life, warmth, and diversity. It reminds us that every celebration is an opportunity to grow, share, and look ahead with optimism.”

The Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) has completed a remarkable first year, emerging as a strong national platform for wine education and hospitality in India. Since its membership launch in October 2024, the Association has crossed 200 members, hosted India’s first SAI Best Sommelier Competition, and introduced the globally recognised Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI) certifications and diploma programmes to India for the very first time.

SAI made its international debut when Co-Founder and President Amrita Singh presented India’s vision at the ASI 55th Anniversary and General Assembly in Monaco, where India was unanimously voted as a Member of ASI’s College of Applicants. This achievement placed India alongside globally recognised sommelier associations and opened doors for Indian professionals to connect with international standards in wine knowledge, service, and competitions.

“From the moment we stood before the ASI Executive Board in Monaco, our mission was clear, to build a platform that delivers rigorous education, real career pathways, and international exposure for Indian sommeliers,” said Amrita Singh, President, Sommeliers Association of India. “This first year proved that with focus, community, and collaboration, India can raise service standards, celebrate its culinary diversity, and compete confidently on the world stage.”

SAI’s first year featured several important milestones. Jai Singh was recognised as the 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India and went on to represent the country at the 2025 ASI Contest Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He has also been confirmed as India’s official candidate for the 2026 ASI Contest Best Sommelier of the World in Lisbon, Portugal.

The Association hosted India’s first ASI Diploma and ASI Certification Level 1, and supported five Indian sommeliers as they attended the ASI Bootcamp in Singapore. National initiatives such as the Sommelier of the Month programme and the upcoming SAI Job Board and Travel Board continue to engage and support members across the country.

SAI has also built strong partnerships with leading international platforms including JancisRobinson.com, JaneAnson.com, GuildSomm, California Wines, Sonal Holland Wine Academy, and Food Matters Group, giving Indian sommeliers access to world-class learning resources.

The leadership team includes Amrita Singh (Co-Founder & President), Mattia Antonio Cianca (Co-Founder & Vice President), Salvatore Castano (Co-Founder & Vice President), and Vinod Abrol (Co-Founder & Vice President), bringing together some of the most respected names in global wine education. Their collective vision centres on education, integrity, inclusion, and opportunities for sommeliers, bartenders, and enthusiasts across India’s fast-growing hospitality sector.

Looking ahead, SAI aims to expand its certifications and partnerships while working towards hosting ASI Certification Level 2 and the ASI Diploma 2026 in India. The Association is also developing a national mentorship and scholarship programme to support emerging talent.

“This is just the beginning,” said Mattia Antonio Cianca, Co-Founder and Vice President of SAI. “We are shaping a generation of Indian sommeliers who will not only serve with skill and knowledge but represent India as part of the global dialogue on wine, hospitality, and culture.”

Urban Square Mall, Udaipur has enhanced its premium retail offerings with the launch of Palmonas, one of India’s most loved demi-fine jewellery brands. This new addition marks Palmonas’ first store in Rajasthan, bringing its blend of elegance and contemporary style to the City of Lakes. Located on the ground floor with a 750 sq. ft. space, the store adds a fresh mix of modern design and everyday luxury to the mall’s retail line-up.

Palmonas introduces Udaipur shoppers to an exquisite range of demi-fine jewellery that balances luxury and everyday wear. The store features a carefully curated collection of necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings, crafted with high-quality materials and modern aesthetics. Each piece reflects the brand’s focus on elegance, versatility, and fine craftsmanship, making it ideal for both daily use and special occasions.

Nandini Taneja, CEO, Bhumika Enterprises, said, “The launch of Palmonas' first store in Rajasthan at Urban Square Mall reflects our commitment to bringing distinctive and aspirational brands closer to Udaipur's shoppers. Palmonas adds a touch of modern elegance and individuality to our retail mix. Urban Square has been designed as a complete lifestyle destination where visitors can explore everything, from fashion and jewellery to dining and entertainment, all under one roof.”

With Palmonas now part of its growing portfolio, Urban Square Mall continues to elevate Udaipur’s retail and lifestyle experience. The mall has become a vibrant destination where fashion, food, and entertainment come together, shaping a modern and enjoyable shopping environment for the city.