Radisson Blu Hotel & Suites GRT Chennai Celebrates Culinary Heritage Through The GReaT Conversation

Radisson Blu Hotel & Suites GRT Chennai Celebrates Culinary Heritage Through The GReaT Conversation

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 18, 2026

As hospitality increasingly moves beyond conventional dining and accommodation, creating experiences rooted in culture, heritage and storytelling has become an important part of guest engagement. Reflecting this evolving trend, Radisson Blu Hotel & Suites GRT Chennai, in partnership with Ministry of Chutneys, hosted the seventh edition of The GReaT Conversation Series – Regimental Mess & Summer Kitchens at Amir Mahal on 13 June 2026.

The event served as a curtain raiser to Regimental Mess & Summer Kitchens, the latest themed culinary showcase at Ministry of Chutneys. Inspired by the food traditions of military messes, cantonment kitchens and the summer food culture of the Madras Presidency, the initiative explored how culinary practices have shaped South India's food heritage over generations.

Moderated by Nawabzada Mohammed Asif Ali, Dewan to the Prince of Arcot, the evening featured a distinguished panel that included Nikhil Sharma, MD & COO, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group; Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts; Major (Dr.) Praveen Raj (Retd.), former Indian Army Officer and Commando; and Rakesh Raghunathan, Food Historian and MasterChef India Judge (Tamil).

Anchored by Ministry of Chutneys, Chennai's first and only dedicated Anglo-Indian restaurant, the discussion highlighted the role of food as a medium for preserving heritage, encouraging dialogue and bringing communities together through shared cultural experiences.

The initiative also reflected a growing focus within the hospitality industry on offering immersive experiences that connect guests with history, traditions and local culture. By blending conversation, cuisine and heritage, the event showcased how hospitality can serve as a platform for meaningful engagement beyond the dining table.

Speaking about the initiative, Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts, said:

"Today's guests seek experiences that go beyond dining. They are looking for authenticity, stories and meaningful connections. Through The GReaT Conversation and Regimental Mess & Summer Kitchens, we created a platform that celebrated heritage through dialogue and cuisine while reinforcing the role of hospitality as a curator of culture and community."

The gathering welcomed members of the diplomatic corps, Consuls General, honorary consuls, senior government officials, hospitality professionals, business leaders, media representatives, cultural custodians and distinguished guests. Together, they celebrated the rich legacy of military traditions, culinary heritage and storytelling under one roof.

At the centre of the initiative was Ministry of Chutneys, the award-winning Anglo-Indian restaurant located at Radisson Blu Hotel & Suites GRT Chennai. Extending the conversation beyond the venue, the discussion was streamed live on Instagram, allowing audiences to participate in real time. Highlights and the complete session were later made available on YouTube, ensuring wider access and continued engagement with the conversation.


Nadezhda Shalamberidze Shares Her Hospitality Journey Across Four Countries

Nadezhda Shalamberidze Shares Her Hospitality Journey Across Four Countries

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 16, 2026

Every hospitality career has its own story, shaped by different destinations, properties, teams and guest experiences. For Nadezhda Shalamberidze, the journey has taken her across Georgia, Qatar, the UAE and India, with each chapter adding something new to her professional growth.

Her hospitality career began in Tbilisi, Georgia, where she took her first steps in the industry with Raddison Blu Iveria. This marked the beginning of a career that would take her into different markets and luxury hospitality environments.

Her next opportunity came in Doha, Qatar, where she worked as a Butler at The St. Regis Doha. The role gave her valuable exposure to international luxury hospitality while strengthening her understanding of personalised service, attention to detail and creating memorable guest experiences.

Nadezhda later returned to Tbilisi, joining Hotels & Preference Hualing Tbilisi as a Guest Relations Manager. What began as a new career opportunity turned into a significant 9-year journey, giving her years of experience, professional growth and many memorable moments.

The next chapter took her to the UAE, where she joined Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island as an Assistant Guest Relations Manager. During her 1 year and 11 months at the property, she further developed her leadership skills while gaining experience in the luxury resort environment. Today, Nadezhda's hospitality journey continues in Mumbai, India, where she has joined The St. Regis Mumbai as a Loyalty Manager.

Reflecting on her career, she highlights how every destination, hotel, colleague and guest has contributed to the professional she has become. From Georgia


Athulya Senior Care Inaugurates Third Senior Care Facility in Bengaluru

Athulya Senior Care Inaugurates Third Senior Care Facility in Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 14, 2026

Athulya Senior Care has inaugurated its third senior care facility in Bengaluru at Mathikere, further strengthening its presence and commitment to building a comprehensive senior care ecosystem in the city.

U.T. Khader, Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka, inaugurated the new facility in the presence of healthcare professionals, senior citizens, partners and members of the Athulya family. Athulya Senior Care also acknowledged the support of Raksha Ramaiah and the MSR Infrastructure team for their partnership in developing the new facility. The purpose-built centre has been designed around the specific needs of seniors, bringing care, comfort, rehabilitation and dignity together under one roof.

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Located in Mathikere, one of Bengaluru's premium residential neighbourhoods, the new geriatric care centre has been developed exclusively for senior citizens. It offers a range of services aimed at supporting seniors through different stages of care while also promoting active ageing and overall wellbeing.

The facility features 75 suite rooms, well-appointed living spaces and dedicated rehabilitation zones. It also includes technology-enabled physiotherapy services with virtual reality-based rehabilitation, specialised memory care infrastructure, emergency medical support, nutritious diet management and recreational spaces.

With the new centre, Athulya Senior Care now has 13 facilities live across India, including three centres in Bengaluru. The organisation has also crossed 300+ dedicated senior care beds in Bengaluru, expanding access to specialised geriatric care in the city. The new facility adds to Athulya's wider network of senior care services, with 1500 beds across India. Its expansion reflects the growing need for dedicated senior care spaces that combine medical support with rehabilitation, comfort and everyday wellbeing.

With 1500 beds across India and 300+ beds in Bengaluru, Athulya Senior Care continues to work towards one shared commitment, enabling seniors to age with dignity, independence and purpose.


ICAI to Support TTD in Strengthening Accounting and Financial Management Systems

ICAI to Support TTD in Strengthening Accounting and Financial Management Systems

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 11, 2026

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) held the 16th Meeting of its Strategy and Perspective Planning and Monitoring Committee at Tirupati on August 5, 2026, reaffirming its focus on supporting public institutions through professional expertise and research.

As part of the initiative, the ICAI Accounting Research Foundation (ICAI ARF) will conduct a detailed research study and prepare a project report to develop a stronger framework for the accounting and audit systems of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). The proposed work will focus on strengthening the existing systems and bringing accounting and financial management practices in line with current requirements.

During the visit, Sri Muddada Ravichandra, IAS, Executive Officer, TTD, met with the Central Council Members of ICAI. The discussions covered areas of collaboration between ICAI and TTD, including accounting reforms, financial reporting and governance. The Central Council Members also shared suggestions on expanding the partnership into other areas.

Speaking on the occasion, CA. Prasanna Kumar D, President, ICAI, said, "ICAI is collaborating with TTD in reviewing and updating the Accounting Manual of TTD, including the Chart of Accounts, to align it with the prevailing Accounting Standards and global best practices. The initiative will also focus on integrating ERP-based accounting processes to ensure uniformity and strengthen financial management systems across all institutions under TTD."

Appreciating the initiative, Sri Muddada Ravichandra, IAS, Executive Officer, Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), stated, "We appreciate ICAI for extending its support to TTD in strengthening our accounting and financial management systems."

The collaboration reflects ICAI's continued efforts to support public institutions through professional expertise, research-based inputs and the use of best practices in accounting, auditing and financial management. The initiative is expected to help TTD develop a modern and stronger financial management framework, while aligning its systems with contemporary accounting standards and governance requirements.

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