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By Nishang Narayan
Published on February 28, 2025
The Sommeliers Association of India (SAI), the only official ASI-affiliated body in India, has introduced a game-changing initiative for the Indian sommelier community. For the first time, the prestigious ASI Sommelier Diploma will be conducted in India, exclusively through SAI. This globally recognized certification is a hallmark of excellence in the wine and hospitality industry, setting a new benchmark for professionals in the field.
The ASI Sommelier Diploma Exam will take place on March 10, 2025, in Mumbai, and is open to SAI members with at least three years of experience. Candidates can qualify at three levels—Bronze (60%), Silver (65%), and Gold (75%), with an additional 10% bonus for foreign language exams in English, French, or Spanish. Those who pass will receive the ASI Sommelier Diploma, an official pin, and a certificate, granting them global recognition.
To further support professional development, SAI will host a special lecture by Mattia Antonio Cianca on March 17, 2025, at The Lalit Suri Hospitality School in Delhi. The following day, March 18, 2025, the ASI Certification 1 Exam will be conducted at the same venue, exclusively for SAI members. Interested candidates must register by February 28, 2025.
Speaking on this milestone, Amrita Singh, President of SAI, shared:"Bringing the ASI Sommelier Diploma to India is a monumental step for our industry. This certification validates the expertise of Indian sommeliers and opens doors to global opportunities, strengthening India's presence on the international wine stage. Our membership program is designed to empower sommeliers with the tools and connections they need to succeed."
Adding to its list of achievements, SAI recently concluded the 2025 Best Sommelier of India Competition, celebrating Jai Singh as the winner. Jai will now represent India at the 2025 ASI Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific Competition, with the ultimate goal of competing in the 2026 ASI Best Sommelier of the World Championship. The competition tested participants on knowledge, tasting expertise, and service skills, making it a defining moment for India’s sommelier industry.
In addition to these initiatives, SAI’s Membership Program provides exclusive benefits to sommeliers and wine professionals. As the only official ASI-affiliated body in India, SAI membership grants access to the ASI Sommelier Diploma, international networking, industry masterclasses, and top-tier competitions. Only SAI members can register for the ASI Diploma Exam and international sommelier contests, making membership a gateway to global success.
Mattia Antonio, Vice President of SAI, emphasized the significance of these developments, stating:"The ASI Sommelier Diploma and SAI Membership Program mark a new era for Indian sommeliers. By equipping them with world-class education and a global network, we are paving the way for India to become a key player in the international wine and hospitality industry."
SAI invites wine and hospitality professionals to be part of this transformative journey. Whether you aspire to earn the ASI Sommelier Diploma, compete for the title of Best Sommelier of India, or expand your professional network, this is your opportunity to elevate your career in the Indian wine industry.
For more information, visit: Sommeliers Association of India
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By Hariharan U
Published on October 22, 2025
ITC Hotels has expanded its premium Storii brand with the launch of Storii Narindera Orchards, Kufri, an experiential mountain retreat set amidst apple orchards with stunning views of the Dhauladhar ranges. The property blends the natural beauty of the Shimla Hills with refined hospitality, offering guests an immersive, soulful escape.
Storii Kufri features elegantly appointed rooms overlooking the valley, a spa with curated wellness experiences, and multiple dining options. Guests can indulge in Himachali delicacies and global cuisine at Daran Valley, enjoy open-air terrace dining with light bites and handcrafted beverages at Café Mehral, relax with teas and desserts at Baag View, or savour premium cocktails at Raspippin Bar. The Baghal Room serves as the signature banquet space, ideal for weddings, corporate retreats, and social gatherings.
“ITC Hotels Limited has a very strong presence in Himachal Pradesh and with the addition of Storii Narindera Orchards, Kufri, we further strengthen our footprint in the state. The property is inspired by the region’s rich heritage and culture, celebrating local artistry thoughtfully blended with contemporary comforts,” said Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited.
“Our dream was to create more than a hotel, we envisaged a destination that reflects the essence of Shimla Hills. We welcome guests to discover not just a stay, but a story that celebrates the region and the spirit of true hospitality,” said Udayvir Singh Punta, Owner of Storii Narindera Orchards, Kufri.
Visitors can enjoy orchard walks, curated treks, bonfire evenings, and wellness treatments at the spa and salon. Located just a short drive from Shimla, the retreat is positioned as a premier choice for leisure getaways, corporate retreats, and destination weddings.
With Storii Narindera Orchards, Kufri, ITC Hotels continues to expand its portfolio of premium experiential destinations, combining regional authenticity with modern luxury.
If you want, I can also draft a shorter social media-friendly version highlighting the scenic location, wellness offerings, and curated dining at Storii Kufri.
Lemon Tree Hotels Limited has announced the signing of its newest property, Lemon Tree Resort, Saj by the Mountain, Mahabaleshwar. The resort will be managed by Carnation Hotels Private Limited, the management arm and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lemon Tree Hotels Limited.
This signing marks an important milestone in the brand’s expansion across Maharashtra, further strengthening its leisure and resort portfolio. Known for offering vibrant, comfortable, and value-driven stays, Lemon Tree continues to attract both business and leisure travellers across India.
The upcoming Lemon Tree Resort, Saj by the Mountain will feature:
78 well-appointed rooms offering scenic views
A restaurant and a bar serving curated local and global cuisines
A banquet hall for events and celebrations
A swimming pool and spa for recreation and relaxation
Speaking on the signing, Vilas Pawar, CEO – Managed & Franchise Business, Lemon Tree Hotels, said, “With this signing, we will expand our leisure portfolio in Maharashtra, a state where we currently have 15 operational and 11 upcoming properties, in addition to this one. While growing our footprint across cities of all tiers, this partnership aligns perfectly with our vision of offering refreshing and comfortable stays across all destinations.”
The addition of the Mahabaleshwar resort highlights Lemon Tree’s strategic focus on premium leisure destinations, complementing its strong city presence. As the travel and tourism landscape continues to evolve, the brand aims to deliver distinctive experiences rooted in comfort, warmth, and value.
Published on October 21, 2025
Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel has announced the relaunch of its signature banquet space, the Jade Ballroom following an extensive redesign. The transformed venue combines contemporary elegance with the city’s cultural heritage, setting a new benchmark for events and celebrations in Hyderabad.
Speaking about the relaunch, Subhankar Bose, General Manager, Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel, said, “The relaunch of Jade Ballroom represents our commitment to offering Hyderabad an exceptional venue that honours tradition while embracing innovation. This space is designed to create magical moments for our guests — whether they are celebrating life’s milestones or hosting distinguished business events.”
The reimagined Jade Ballroom now offers 4,500 sq. ft. of flexible, pillarless meeting space, complemented by a 2,500 sq. ft. pre-function area. With a total capacity of up to 600 guests, it ranks among Hyderabad’s largest and most adaptable event venues.
Designed for versatility, the ballroom’s column-free architecture ensures unobstructed sightlines, allowing seamless transitions between intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. The space can also be divided into Jade 1 and Jade 2, offering flexibility for simultaneous events or customized layouts.
The enhanced pre-function area, ideal for cocktail receptions, networking sessions, or registration zones, features independent access for added exclusivity. State-of-the-art audio-visual systems and advanced lighting technology have also been integrated, ensuring every event is executed with sophistication and precision.
With its blend of timeless design, modern technology, and spacious versatility, the new Jade Ballroom reaffirms Sheraton Hyderabad’s position as a premier destination for weddings, social celebrations, and corporate events in the city.
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