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.


Crowne Plaza Greater Noida Introduces New Awadhi and Mughlai Menu at Spice Art

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida Introduces New Awadhi and Mughlai Menu at Spice Art

By Hariharan U

Published on August 7, 2026

Crowne Plaza Greater Noida has announced the launch of an all-new menu at Spice Art, its signature Indian fine dining restaurant, bringing guests an immersive culinary experience inspired by the timeless flavours of Awadhi and Mughlai cuisine.

Curated by Chef Vijay, the refreshed menu celebrates the grandeur of India’s royal kitchens while presenting traditional recipes through a contemporary fine dining approach. The new offerings highlight authentic regional flavours, handcrafted spice blends, and refined culinary techniques, creating an elevated gastronomic journey for guests.

Known for its elegant ambience and soulful live ghazal performances, Spice Art continues its celebration of Indian culinary heritage with dishes inspired by the royal cuisines of Punjab, Delhi, and Lucknow.

The culinary experience begins with an extensive selection of starters, including Dahi Ke Kebab, Bhuna Masala Paneer Tikka, Badami Murgh Chandi Kebab, and Nimbu Neem Ki Tawa Fish, followed by comforting soups such as Tamatar Chakunder Shorba and Murgh Pudina Ka Ark.

The main course showcases the richness of Indian royal cuisine with signature dishes including Dal Spice Art, Martaban Ka Paneer, Subz Panchratan Masala, Nawabi Pasanda, Chaap-e-Awadh, Nalli Nihari, Dilli-6 Murgh Korma, Murgh Tikka Makhan Masala, Sarson Wali Macchi, and Saunfyani Kadhai Jhinga.

Highlighting traditional cooking techniques, the Murgh Tikka Makhan Masala features char-grilled chicken tikka prepared in a rich buttery tomato gravy, while Sarson Wali Macchi brings together mustard-marinated river sole with aromatic Indian spices. The Saunfyani Kadhai Jhinga combines succulent prawns with fennel and traditional spice flavours.

The menu also features aromatic biryanis including Murgh Dum Biryani, Lucknowi Gosht Biryani, and Subz Dum Biryani, paired with freshly baked Indian breads such as Roghni Naan, Sheermal, and Amritsari Kulcha. Guests can end their meal with classic desserts including Khubani Ka Meetha and Shahi Meetha.

Enhancing the dining experience, Spice Art has introduced handcrafted mocktails inspired by Indian flavours. Mehmaan Nawazi, featuring orange juice, sweet peach, and a subtle hint of house-made pickle, celebrates India's tradition of hospitality, while Jamun Jashn combines jamun, basil, lavender, black salt, and Sprite for a refreshing seasonal beverage.

Commenting on the launch, Sharad K. Upadhyay, General Manager, Crowne Plaza Greater Noida, said the new menu reflects the hotel’s commitment to celebrating India’s culinary heritage through authenticity, innovation, and exceptional hospitality.

Sharing his vision behind the menu, Chef Vijay said the new offerings aim to preserve the essence of Awadhi and Mughlai cuisine while introducing contemporary elements that allow guests to experience the stories, aromas, and emotions behind Indian food traditions.

With its new menu, refined ambience, and live ghazal performances, Spice Art continues to position itself as a destination for memorable dining experiences, whether for intimate dinners, family celebrations, or special occasions.

About Spice Art

Spice Art is the signature Indian fine dining restaurant at Crowne Plaza Greater Noida, offering an exceptional culinary experience inspired by the royal cuisines of Punjab, Delhi, and Lucknow. The restaurant combines authentic flavours, elegant interiors, and soulful live music to celebrate India’s rich gastronomic legacy.

Operational Timings: 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Reservations: +91 8527694313


Zydus Wellness Launches Complan Powerplay, Enters Ready-to-Drink Milkshake Segment

Zydus Wellness Launches Complan Powerplay, Enters Ready-to-Drink Milkshake Segment

By Hariharan U

Published on August 7, 2026

Zydus Wellness has announced the launch of Complan Powerplay, a ready-to-drink nutritional milkshake that marks the brand’s entry into India’s ready-to-drink dairy beverage segment.

Designed to cater to the nutritional needs of children aged 7 years and above, Complan Powerplay aims to create a new consumption occasion for the brand within the milkshake and flavoured milk category, which is estimated at ₹1,700 crore.

The launch comes at a time when children’s lifestyles are becoming increasingly active, creating demand for convenient and nutrient-rich options beyond traditional meal occasions. With parents seeking better nutritional choices that fit into busy routines, Complan Powerplay combines the brand’s nutritional expertise with the convenience of an on-the-go milkshake.

Alongside the product launch, Complan has introduced its integrated campaign “Har Passion Ko Do Poshan”, celebrating children’s diverse interests and encouraging parents to support their ambitions with the right nutrition.

Complan Powerplay provides 10g of high-quality milk protein in every 160 ml serving, along with calcium and 30% of the recommended daily allowance of Vitamin D2. The product also contains prebiotics and is formulated with no added sugar, preservatives, artificial colours, or artificial flavours.

Commenting on the launch, Tarun Arora, CEO & Whole Time Director, Zydus Wellness Ltd., said, “Children's lifestyles today are fundamentally different from what they were a decade ago, and nutrition solutions must evolve alongside them. At Zydus Wellness, our innovation strategy is centered on identifying emerging consumer behaviours and creating relevant formats that seamlessly fit into everyday life.”

He added, “Complan Powerplay is a natural extension of the brand's trusted nutrition heritage into a fast-growing adjacent category, allowing us to address new consumption occasions while remaining focused on delivering science-backed nutrition.”

The launch is supported by an integrated marketing campaign across platforms including Meta, YouTube, Snapchat, and other digital channels. The campaign is anchored by a television commercial that brings the message “Har Passion Ko Do Poshan” to life, showcasing children pursuing their interests across sports, music, dance, and other activities while highlighting the role of parents in supporting their journeys.

Available in Chocolate and Vanilla variants, Complan Powerplay is positioned as a convenient nutrition solution to support children during school, sports, and hobby-related activities.

About Zydus Wellness

Zydus Wellness is a consumer wellness company with an Indian heritage and global presence. With over 35 years of operational experience, the company’s portfolio includes brands such as RiteBite Max Protein, Complan, Sugar Free, Sugar Free D’lite, Glucon-D, Nutralite, I’m Lite, Everyuth, and Nycil.

Headquartered in Ahmedabad, Zydus Wellness operates four manufacturing facilities across Aligarh, Ahmedabad, and Sikkim, along with 18 co-packing facilities across India, New Zealand, Dubai, and Bangladesh.


The Serai Resorts, Bandipur Appoints Siddharth Manjeshwar as Resort Manager

The Serai Resorts, Bandipur Appoints Siddharth Manjeshwar as Resort Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 7, 2026

The Serai Resorts, Bandipur has announced the appointment of Siddharth Manjeshwar as its new Resort Manager, further strengthening the leadership team at the award-winning luxury wildlife retreat located on the edge of Bandipur National Park.

Siddharth brings extensive international hospitality experience, having worked across luxury hotels, resorts, and restaurants in India, Thailand, Japan, the UAE, and the Maldives. Over the years, he has held leadership roles with leading hospitality brands including IHCL, Alila Hotels & Resorts, Sterling Holidays, Club Med, and Lily Beach Resort & Spa.

His expertise spans resort operations, food and beverage management, guest experience, and team leadership. Throughout his career, he has built a strong reputation for driving operational excellence, improving guest satisfaction, and leading high-performing teams.

Siddharth holds a Master's degree in Business with a specialisation in Hospitality Management, combining strong business knowledge with hands-on operational experience in the hospitality sector.

Welcoming him to the team, Saibal Sen, Chief Operating Officer, The Serai Resorts, said:

"With Siddharth joining the leadership team, he will play an important role in the next chapter for The Serai Bandipur. His proven track record in luxury hospitality, passion for service excellence, and deep understanding of resort operations align perfectly with our vision of crafting meaningful, destination-led experiences for the unhurried explorer. We are excited to have him on board and look forward to his leadership in further elevating the thoughtful experiences, and authentic connections that define The Serai Resorts."

As Resort Manager, Siddharth will oversee the overall operations of The Serai Resorts, Bandipur, with a focus on delivering seamless guest experiences, strengthening service standards, improving operational efficiency, and developing the resort's team. He will also work closely with the leadership team to further position the property as one of India's leading luxury wildlife destinations.

Sharing his thoughts on the appointment, Siddharth Manjeshwar said:

"I am delighted to join The Serai Resorts, Bandipur, a destination that beautifully blends nature, thoughtful experiences, and gracious hospitality. Having worked across diverse hospitality markets and brands, I look forward to collaborating with the team to create meaningful guest journeys, strengthen our culture of service excellence, and deliver the immersive, destination-led experiences that make every stay at The Serai Resorts truly memorable.”

With Siddharth's appointment, The Serai Resorts, Bandipur continues its focus on delivering authentic, immersive, and guest-centric experiences while strengthening its position in India's luxury wildlife hospitality segment.

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