Shankar Distillers Opens High-Tech Distillery in Troy, Michigan

Shankar Distillers Opens High-Tech Distillery in Troy, Michigan

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 28, 2024

Shankar Distillers, the latest venture by tech entrepreneur Varchasvi Shankar, has officially opened in Troy, Michigan. This advanced distillery features a state-of-the-art 45-foot continuous distillation column, so large that the distillery's roof had to be modified to accommodate it. Located in an industrial park, the distillery's glass ceiling is a distinctive landmark visible from I-75, just north of the 14 Mile exit near Oakland Mall.

Varchasvi Shankar, the first Indian immigrant to open an American whiskey distillery, celebrated the grand opening of Shankar Distillers on Friday, July 12. Shankar has also expanded into international markets, making the Varchas Whiskey line the first American craft bourbon exported to India. The distillery team includes master distiller Kylash Sivakumar and senior advisor Dennis Archer Jr., who have together crafted several award-winning spirits. Among their accolades is the Varchas Reserve 102 Straight Bourbon Whiskey, which won gold at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its smooth, earthy flavor profile featuring notes of wood, leather, tobacco, and caramel.

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Shankar expressed his enthusiasm for sharing these whiskeys directly with the public. “This is a dream come true for me. I never imagined that I would open a distillery in the USA. I came here for a technology career, but whiskey has always been my passion, and I'm thrilled to bring this unique cultural experience to the people of this country,” he said. “I'm excited to see visitors experience in person the fusion of Eastern and Western traditions in our spirits.”

Shankar Distillers offers a range of spirits, including Varchas Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Varchas Straight Rye Whiskey, Dasara Gin, and Varchas Vodka. Visitors can purchase these products along with branded merchandise like whiskey glasses, flasks, and T-shirts. The tasting room features plush lounge seating and a premium atmosphere, with a diverse cocktail menu that includes classics like Manhattans and barrel-aged sazeracs, as well as a unique gin and tonic made with Indian tonic. House specialties also include the “Gimme Some More,” made with Varchas Vodka, cucumber, and elderflower liqueur.

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Shankar Distillers stands out not just for its story of transitioning from tech to distilling but also for the beauty of its bottles. The 750 ml glass bottles feature a two-headed eagle on the label, a symbol of Shankar’s home state of Mysore in southern India, and a 3D eagle on the cork, highlighting Shankar’s accomplishments in the United States. The distillery is proud of its Michigan roots, using locally sourced water and corn in its products.

For those interested in visiting, Shankar Distillers at 1030 Chicago Road in Troy is open from 3-10 p.m. Wednesday through Thursday, 3 p.m.-midnight on Friday, 11 a.m.-midnight on Saturday, and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Sunday. Tours are available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons. 

For more information, visit shankardistillers.com.


Six Fields Launches #CheersForMore Campaign with Anil Chaudhary

Six Fields Launches #CheersForMore Campaign with Anil Chaudhary

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 16, 2026

Six Fields has launched its Summer 2026 campaign, #CheersForMore, bringing internationally recognised cricket umpire Anil Chaudhary on board to create a fresh and engaging cricket-viewing experience. Launched during the ongoing cricket season, the campaign aims to encourage fans to celebrate not only match-winning moments but also the smaller moments that shape the game.

At the centre of the campaign is a digital film featuring Anil Chaudhary in a role not commonly seen in cricket brand campaigns. Instead of focusing only on players and high-impact moments, the campaign highlights the many events that keep fans emotionally invested throughout a match, from wides and dot balls to appeals, boundaries, near misses, and changing momentum.

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The idea behind the campaign comes from an interesting insight into fan behaviour. While cricket viewers remain emotionally connected from the first ball to the last, celebrations usually happen only during major moments like sixes, wickets, or final victories. Through #CheersForMore, Six Fields aims to make every moment worth celebrating.

Using familiar umpire signals as a creative element, the campaign transforms official gestures into easy fan reactions that people can use while watching matches together. Through this approach, Six Fields hopes to build a more interactive and socially driven viewing culture among modern cricket audiences.

Speaking about the campaign, Prem Dewan, Chairman and Managing Director of DeVANS Modern Breweries Ltd., said: “Cricket is one of India’s biggest entertainment experience and our campaign #CheersForMore celebrates the energy that exists in every moment of the game. The campaign reflects this energy and encourages fans to engage more actively throughout the game.”

The campaign’s choice of Anil Chaudhary also stands out. While many cricket campaigns usually feature current or former players, Six Fields has selected a personality closely associated with the game’s structure and authenticity. Having retired from IPL umpiring only last year, Chaudhary continues to be recognised as the most experienced umpire in IPL history, bringing familiarity and credibility to the campaign.

The initiative also reflects how cricket consumption habits are evolving, especially among younger audiences. Fans today interact with matches through memes, reels, fantasy leagues, watch parties, social media discussions, and live conversations beyond television screens. Brands are increasingly trying to become part of these moments rather than simply seeking visibility.

The campaign will roll out extensively across digital and social platforms during the cricket season. It will include creator collaborations, fan participation formats, influencer content, and real-time conversations to make the cheering behaviour more engaging and visible online.

Speaking on the campaign, Anil Chaudhary said: “Every signal on the field exists because every moment matters in cricket. Through #CheersForMore with Six Fields, we wanted to bring that same spirit to fans and encourage them to stay engaged with the game beyond just the major moments.”

With #CheersForMore, Six Fields is looking to strengthen its connection with cricket culture, social engagement, and celebration moments during one of India's biggest sporting seasons. Cheers For More with Six Fields!


Sheraton Grand Palace Indore Launches “Sarafa se Chappan” Culinary Experience

Sheraton Grand Palace Indore Launches “Sarafa se Chappan” Culinary Experience

By Hariharan U

Published on May 15, 2026

Sheraton Grand Palace Indore has introduced a new immersive dining concept titled “Sarafa se Chappan,” designed to celebrate the vibrant street food culture of Indore through a curated culinary journey.

The experience brings together the iconic flavours of Sarafa Bazaar’s lively night food scene and the diverse offerings of Chappan Dukan, two of the city’s most celebrated culinary destinations. Hosted at S Café, the initiative transforms familiar street food favourites into a refined, sit-down dining format while preserving their authenticity and regional character.

The specially curated menu features a wide range of Indori street food staples, including Potato Hot Dog, Sweet Potato Spiral, Jeeravan Spiced Corn, Indori Chatpati Bhel, and Tandoori Fruits. Complementing the food selection are locally inspired beverages such as Jamun Shots and Pineapple Crusher, designed to reflect the bold, tangy, and refreshing flavours associated with Indore’s street culture.

The concept is built around storytelling through food, where each dish represents a sensory connection to the city’s culinary heritage. By blending nostalgia with presentation-driven dining, the experience aims to recreate the energy and vibrancy of Indore’s bustling food streets within a premium hospitality setting.

According to the hotel, the initiative is designed to offer guests more than just a meal, focusing instead on immersive dining that engages taste, memory, and culture. The emphasis remains on authenticity, creativity, and regional identity, while presenting street food in a structured and elevated format.

The “Sarafa se Chappan” experience will be available every weekend from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM at Sheraton Grand Palace Indore, offering guests a curated journey through one of India’s most celebrated food cities.


Oliveto brings Venerdì Italiano evenings to The St. Regis Goa Resort this June

Oliveto brings Venerdì Italiano evenings to The St. Regis Goa Resort this June

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 15, 2026

Oliveto at The St. Regis Goa Resort is set to bring the charm of Italy to Goa with the launch of Venerdì Italiano evenings this June. Inspired by the relaxed and soulful dining traditions of Italy, the experience invites guests to slow down and enjoy a specially curated evening centred around food, conversation, and timeless flavours.

Scheduled every Friday throughout June, the dining experience embraces the essence of La Dolce Vita and recreates the warmth of a classic neighbourhood trattoria in a refined setting.

Guests can look forward to a chef-curated set menu featuring beloved Italian favourites thoughtfully presented with a contemporary touch. The menu will take diners through a carefully planned culinary journey, beginning with elegant antipasti and moving through signature classics before ending on indulgent dessert notes.

Designed to blend authenticity with modern finesse, Venerdì Italiano aims to offer more than just a meal. The evening promises a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy the comfort of traditional Italian dining with a refreshed perspective.

The experience will take place every Friday in June from 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM at Oliveto, The St. Regis Goa Resort.

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