Shimla Winter Carnival: A Historic Celebration Boosting Himachal's Tourism

Shimla Winter Carnival: A Historic Celebration Boosting Himachal's Tourism

By Author

Published on December 29, 2023

In a significant move to rejuvenate the tourism sector, the Himachal Pradesh government kicked off the inaugural Shimla Winter Carnival, a 12-day celebration aimed at uplifting the spirits of the hill state. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the event at the historic Ridge, marking a historic moment for the city.

The winter carnival holds special significance as it comes on the heels of a challenging period for Himachal Pradesh's tourism industry, severely impacted by the recent monsoon disruptions. Chief Minister Sukhu, during the inauguration, acknowledged the adverse effects of the monsoon fury but expressed optimism about the state's recovery. He highlighted the influx of 30,000 tourist vehicles in the past days as a promising sign of the tourism industry's revival.

Emphasizing the government's commitment to promoting tourism, Chief Minister Sukhu announced a substantial increase in the budget for the tourism sector, reaching Rs. 3,000 crores from the previous Rs. 50 crores. This financial boost aims to support the recovery efforts and further elevate Himachal Pradesh as a preferred tourist destination.

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To facilitate a seamless experience for visitors, the state government has permitted all restaurants, dhabas, and food shops to remain open 24 hours from December 20, 2023, to January 5, 2024. This move is aligned with the government's focus on providing a warm welcome to tourists and enhancing their overall experience in the state.

The Winter Carnival promises an array of attractions, including cultural parades, folk dance performances like Mahanati, and exhibitions featuring local dishes and cultural programs. The carnival, set to conclude on January 5, 2024, is strategically timed during the Christmas and New Year celebrations, adding to the festive atmosphere in Shimla.

Apart from being a delightful experience for tourists, the carnival aims to celebrate Himachal Pradesh's rich cultural heritage. Cultural programs such as Kullavi Nati and Singtu of Sirmaur district were presented, contributing to the vibrant celebration. The event, graced by dignitaries, including Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh and Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh, is expected to have a positive economic impact on the state.

The Shimla Winter Carnival signifies a turning point for Himachal Pradesh's tourism, ushering in hope, festive cheer, and a promising outlook for the future.


Holiday Inn Gurugram Sector 90 Appoints Milan Rawal as Human Resources Manager

Holiday Inn Gurugram Sector 90 Appoints Milan Rawal as Human Resources Manager

By Hariharan U

Published on June 11, 2026

Holiday Inn Gurugram Sector 90 has announced the appointment of Milan Rawal as its new Human Resources Manager.

Milan brings over nine years of progressive experience in hospitality human resources, having worked with reputed organisations such as Foodlink F&B Holdings Ltd., Hyatt Regency Gurgaon, Hyatt Place Hampi, and Goan Recreation Clubs Pvt. Ltd.

In her new role, she will oversee the hotel’s entire human resources function, including talent acquisition, payroll management, employee relations, workforce planning and budgeting, employee engagement, learning and development, as well as compliance with HR policies and labour laws.

Academically, she holds a PGDM from MIT University and a Master of Commerce degree from S.S. Dempo College of Commerce & Economics.

Speaking on the appointment, Rishabh Jain, General Manager of Holiday Inn Gurugram Sector 90, said, “We are delighted to welcome Milan to our leadership team. Her strong HR expertise and people-centric approach will play a key role in strengthening our workplace culture and supporting the hotel’s continued growth.”

Milan Rawal shared, “I am excited to join Holiday Inn Gurugram Sector 90 and look forward to contributing towards building a positive and engaging work environment while supporting the team’s growth and success.”

Outside of work, she enjoys playing badminton, travelling, and spending time with her family


Urban Italia Dallas Appoints Naveen Kandhol as Food & Beverage Manager

Urban Italia Dallas Appoints Naveen Kandhol as Food & Beverage Manager

By Hariharan U

Published on June 11, 2026

Urban Italia, a well-known destination for authentic Italian dining and premium hospitality in Dallas, has announced the appointment of Naveen Kandhol as its new Food and Beverage Manager.

With over a decade of experience across luxury hotels, fine-dining restaurants, and leading beverage companies in India, Naveen brings strong expertise in food and beverage operations, beverage programme development, guest engagement, team leadership, and revenue optimisation.

In his new role, he will be responsible for overseeing restaurant and bar operations, managing departmental budgets, driving profitability, curating innovative beverage menus, strengthening inventory and cost controls, and leading staff training initiatives to enhance overall guest experience. He will also collaborate closely with the culinary team to design curated food and beverage pairings that elevate Urban Italia’s dining offerings.

Speaking on his appointment, Naveen Kandhol said,“I am excited to join Urban Italia and contribute to its commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences. I look forward to creating innovative beverage programs, strengthening operational excellence, and building memorable experiences for our guests.”

Prior to this role, Naveen served as Key Accounts Manager at Piccadily Agro Industries Limited, where he handled the Indri Indian Single Malt and Camikara Rum portfolios across Delhi and Haryana. His work included cocktail innovation using Indian ingredients, bartender training programmes, research and development initiatives, and brand collaborations to strengthen market engagement.

His career journey also includes leadership roles at Townhall New Delhi as Food and Beverage Manager, where he successfully increased beverage sales through contemporary cocktail innovation and strategic premium brand partnerships. He has also held key positions at Novelle Shangri-La New Delhi, Whisky Samba Gurugram, and The Fatty Bao New Delhi.

Known for his creativity in beverage development, strong operational discipline, and leadership capabilities, Naveen has consistently contributed to improving guest satisfaction, enhancing operational efficiency, and building high-performing hospitality teams.

Urban Italia stated that Naveen’s extensive industry experience and passion for hospitality will play a key role in strengthening the restaurant’s position as one of Dallas’ preferred dining destinations.


World Gin Day 2026: Bengaluru’s Mixologists Unveil a Bold Line-Up of Signature Gin Cocktails

World Gin Day 2026: Bengaluru’s Mixologists Unveil a Bold Line-Up of Signature Gin Cocktails

By Hariharan U

Published on June 11, 2026

As World Gin Day 2026 is celebrated across global cocktail communities, Bengaluru’s bar scene is marking the occasion with a creative showcase of gin-forward cocktails that highlight the spirit’s versatility. From botanical complexity and tropical freshness to playful heat and citrus-driven refreshment, the city’s mixologists are presenting drinks that reflect both craftsmanship and contemporary drinking trends.

Java Jolt – Maize and Malt, Whitefield

Created by mixologist Mahesh Bhatt, Java Jolt is an aperitif-style gin cocktail that bl  ends botanical depth with Indian inspiration. Gin is paired with sweet vermouth and aromatic bitters, while Nannari bubbles add a distinctly earthy sweetness and refreshing effervescence.

The cocktail delivers layered herbal notes balanced with subtle spice and floral undertones, making it both nostalgic and modern in expression.

Ingredients: Gin, Sweet Vermouth, Aromatic Bitters, Nannari Bubbles
Palate: Herbal, Aromatic, Effervescent, Balanced, Refreshing

Festum – Gladia Brewery & Kitchen

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Festum is a vibrant, botanical-forward creation crafted for World Gin Day, built on Gondraj lemon-infused gin. The cocktail layers floral hibiscus, ripe peach sweetness, and homemade ginger ale, resulting in a bright and refreshing highball.

Light, aromatic, and citrus-led, Festum captures the celebratory spirit of gin with an easy-drinking yet flavour-rich profile.

Ingredients: Gondraj lemon-infused gin, hibiscus, peach, homemade ginger ale
Style: Floral citrus highball
Palate: Bright citrus, floral, fruity, refreshing, lightly spiced

Lime Emerald – Oasis Brewery, Whitefield

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Crafted by mixologist Abhijeet, Lime Emerald is a refined tropical gin cocktail built on clarified coconut water and fresh lime juice. Kaffir lime leaves add aromatic complexity, creating a clean yet layered drinking experience.

Served in a coupe glass, the cocktail is designed to be visually elegant while delivering crisp citrus freshness and subtle tropical depth.

Ingredients: Gin, clarified coconut water, sugar syrup, fresh lime juice, kaffir lime leaves
Glassware: Coupe glass
Palate: Crisp, Citrusy, Tropical, Aromatic, Refreshing

Knock Out Kick – Amoeba Sports Bar

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Created by mixologist Arindam Das, Knock Out Kick is a high-energy gin cocktail inspired by game nights and celebratory moments. It balances peach syrup sweetness with fresh jalapeño heat, lifted by citrus and tonic water.

The drink starts fruity and smooth before building into a gentle spicy kick, making it a bold yet approachable celebratory serve.

Ingredients: Gin, peach syrup, fresh jalapeño, citrus, tonic water
Palate: Bright, Fruity, Crisp, Subtly Spiced, Refreshing

As gin continues to evolve as one of the most expressive spirits in modern mixology, Bengaluru’s bar landscape reflects a growing appetite for creativity, regional ingredients, and experiential drinking. Whether it is herbal complexity, tropical clarity, citrus brightness, or spicy indulgence, each cocktail offers a distinct interpretation of celebration—perfectly timed for World Gin Day 2026.

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