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By Nishang Narayan
Published on January 29, 2025
Loca Loka, the Indian AlcoBev company making waves worldwide, has appointed Rajiv Ghumman as its Global Business Head, marking a significant step in its global growth journey. With over two decades of experience in the AlcoBev industry, Rajiv has worked with renowned brands such as Bacardi, Jose Cuervo, and United Distillers India Ltd, where he led marketing for iconic names like Black & White, Vat 69, and White Horse Whisky.
In his new role, Rajiv will focus on global expansion strategies, sales operations, and innovative marketing initiatives to establish Loca Loka as a leading name in premium tequila. The company, which recently launched in the United States and Southeast Asia, aims to tap into the rising global demand for high-quality agave-based spirits.
Commenting on his appointment, Rajiv Ghumman shared, “It is an honor to step into this global role at such a transformative time for Loca Loka and the tequila industry at large. Tequila is more than just a spirit; it embodies tradition, culture, and the artistry of Mexico. I’m excited to bring our authentic tequila experience to new audiences, delivering exceptional quality and fostering brand loyalty worldwide.”
Harsha Vadlamudi, Founder of Loca Loka, expressed confidence in Rajiv’s leadership: “Rajiv has consistently demonstrated unparalleled strategic insight and a deep understanding of the industry. As we expand into key markets like the US, Southeast Asia, Dubai, and London, his expertise will be instrumental in establishing Loca Loka as a global force in the tequila category.”
In the past six months, Loca Loka has achieved major milestones. The brand launched its handcrafted tequila offerings—Tequila Blanco and Tequila Reposado—in the United States and Southeast Asia, targeting markets with high demand for premium spirits. With reports showing a CAGR of 8.1% in the global tequila market (2022-2028), Loca Loka is poised to capitalize on the growing trend toward premium and craft tequila.
The Tequila Blanco, retailing at $40, offers a vibrant profile with fruity flavors of cooked agave and floral notes from Highland agaves. The Reposado, priced at $49, boasts a richer aroma and is aged in French and American oak barrels, creating a smooth, premium experience.
Founded by Rana Daggubati, Anirudh Ravichander, and Harsha Vadlamudi, Loca Loka represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation. With a commitment to crafting exceptional spirits that narrate stories of heritage and cross-cultural collaboration, the company embodies modern India's vibrant energy. Starting with tequila, Loca Loka aims to expand its portfolio, catering to a global audience with unique and high-quality offerings.
With Rajiv Ghumman at the helm, Loca Loka is set to redefine the tequila landscape and establish itself as a global powerhouse in the AlcoBev industry.
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By Hariharan U
Published on October 26, 2025
Pullman Hotels & Resorts has announced two key appointments at Pullman Chennai, bolstering its leadership team and strengthening its foothold in South India’s corporate and MICE market.
Sabarinath R joins as Director of Sales and Marketing, bringing over two decades of experience in luxury hospitality sales and marketing. He previously served as Vice President – Business Development (South) at Foodlink F&B Holdings and as Director of Sales & Marketing at The Leela Palace Chennai. Known for driving exceptional performance, Sabarinath has led successful pre-opening teams, MICE and catering operations, and strategic pricing initiatives. His tenure at The Leela Palace Chennai saw record achievements, including an RGI Index of 139 and the #1 ADR position in February 2024. He was also honoured as Chief Closing Officer of the Year (2022) and HOD of the Year (2014–15) for his leadership excellence.
Joining him is Anish C. Mohan, appointed as Director of Sales. Anish brings extensive experience across hospitality sales and business development, with leadership roles at Taj Coromandel Chennai, The Leela Palaces & Resorts, and aloft Chennai. His expertise spans strategic planning, revenue optimisation, and client relationship management, with proven success in driving growth across corporate, MICE, and leisure segments in competitive South Indian markets.
Commenting on the appointments, Vinodh Ramamurthy, General Manager, Pullman Chennai, said, “We are delighted to welcome Sabarinath and Anish to the Pullman Chennai family. Their extensive experience, strategic insights, and deep understanding of the South Indian market will be instrumental in strengthening our market presence and delivering exceptional experiences to our guests. These appointments reflect our commitment to growth, innovation, and maintaining Pullman’s position as a leading destination for both business and leisure travellers.”
With these appointments, Pullman Chennai continues to expand its corporate and MICE offerings, ensuring guests experience innovative sales strategies, personalised service, and world-class hospitality synonymous with the Pullman brand.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore has announced the appointment of Rupesh Karbhari as its official sommelier. Karbhari brings nearly two decades of experience from prestigious luxury hotels and cruise lines, including Cunard Cruise Lines, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts, and The Oberoi Hotels & Resorts. His credentials include the Introductory Sommelier Certificate from the Court of Master Sommeliers (2024) and the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines & Spirits (2015). In 2017, he was recognised as a ‘Nominated Educator’ by the Wines & Spirits Education Trust, London, for his exceptional teaching of WSET programmes.
Karbhari expressed his excitement: “Wine has a magical way of connecting people, creating stories and memories with every sip. At The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, I find immense joy in curating experiences where each glass sparks a conversation between place, culture, and taste, leaving guests with moments they’ll cherish.”
Reuben Kataria, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore, said, “We are delighted to welcome Rupesh Karbhari. In an era where the art of the sommelier is often overlooked, we champion its revival, placing craftsmanship, deep knowledge, and meaningful engagement at the heart of our beverage philosophy. His global expertise will elevate our offerings and redefine Bangalore’s wine and culinary landscape. Rupesh will inspire wine enthusiasts, fostering deeper appreciation and dialogue.”
With Karbhari on board, The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore continues to set benchmarks in elegance, sophistication, and unforgettable guest experiences.
Published on October 25, 2025
MRG Group has announced the appointment of Manjunath Kowtal as General Manager – Sales, reinforcing its focus on building a strong leadership team amid an ambitious expansion plan across its hospitality brands.
A seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience, Mr. Kowtal brings expertise in sales strategy, brand positioning, and business development, with a strong emphasis on sustainable growth and market leadership. His career includes associations with leading hospitality names such as The LaLiT Ashok Bengaluru, Hammerhead Experiences, Sarovar Hotels, Ibis & Novotel Bengaluru Techpark, and Ramada by Wyndham, where he successfully crafted sales frameworks combining performance with purpose.
At MRG Group, Mr. Kowtal will lead the Group’s sales architecture, enhancing revenue models, unlocking new market opportunities, and expanding the brand’s reach across geographies and business verticals.
Commenting on the appointment, Gaurav Shetty, Managing Director of MRG Group, said:
"We are pleased to welcome Manjunath to the leadership team. His deep understanding of market dynamics and people-centric approach to sales leadership align perfectly with MRG’s growth vision."
Reflecting on his new role, Manjunath Kowtal added:
"Joining MRG Group at this pivotal stage is an exciting opportunity. I look forward to contributing to its dynamic portfolio and driving initiatives that not only boost business outcomes but also enhance the guest experience."
With several new projects underway, MRG Group continues to focus on strengthening its portfolio, nurturing leadership talent, and setting new benchmarks in hospitality excellence.
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