The Apurva Kempinski Bali: Leading the Way in Sustainable Ho

The Apurva Kempinski Bali: Leading the Way in Sustainable Hospitality

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on May 20, 2024

The Apurva Kempinski Bali has set a new standard in Indonesia's luxury hospitality sector by becoming the first hotel in the country to receive the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Certification.

The GSTC is a globally respected organization that promotes best practices in sustainable tourism through rigorous standards. Their certification process evaluates four key pillars: Sustainable Management, Social Impact, Cultural and Community Preservation, and Environmental Stewardship. The Apurva Kempinski Bali's achievement underscores its dedication to these principles.

Sustainability is at the core of The Apurva Kempinski Bali's brand strategy, aligning with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. The GSTC certification process, conducted by Control Union, involved a comprehensive audit that highlighted the resort's effective sustainability management. The resort integrates ethical business practices and has a dedicated ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) team to continuously monitor and enhance sustainable initiatives.

One of the key areas of focus for The Apurva Kempinski Bali is maximizing social and economic benefits for the local community. The resort has achieved a significant milestone by hiring 21.7% of its staff from surrounding communities as of December 2023. Additionally, the resort's Sustainable Agriculture program, in partnership with the Samsara Living Museum, educates local farmers on eco-farming techniques. This initiative not only meets the hotel's high standards for kitchen supplies but also creates direct supply relationships, eliminating middlemen and fostering a more sustainable economy.

Cultural heritage preservation is another cornerstone of The Apurva Kempinski Bali's sustainability efforts. The resort is a vibrant showcase of Indonesian culture, with its staff and performers embodying the nation's rich traditions. Annual campaigns and collaborations with various partners help curate unique guest experiences that celebrate Indonesia's cultural heritage.

Environmental stewardship is a key priority for the resort, which employs a science-based approach to minimize its environmental footprint. Initiatives such as the Hydroponic Rooftop Garden, comprehensive waste management programs, sustainable weddings, and the use of electric vehicles demonstrate this commitment. The resort has also partnered with Eco-Tourism Bali to launch a mangrove planting program, starting with 1,000 seeds, to further emphasize its dedication to climate neutrality.

Vincent Guironnet, General Manager of The Apurva Kempinski Bali, expressed pride in the resort's pioneering role in sustainable hospitality. "It is truly an honor for us to be the first hotel in Indonesia to receive the prestigious GSTC certification," he said. "This recognition reaffirms our commitment to providing unparalleled luxury experiences while leading the charge in sustainable tourism practices. We remain dedicated to creating impactful change and shaping a more sustainable future for generations to come."

Standing atop the majestic cliffs of Nusa Dua with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, The Apurva Kempinski Bali offers the epitome of beachfront luxury. The resort features 475 iconic rooms, suites, and villas, with 60% boasting private plunge pools. Guests can enjoy a unique culinary journey, indigenous spa treatments, spacious meeting rooms, and alluring chapels, making The Apurva Kempinski Bali a spectacular stage for curated experiences.

As Indonesia's first GSTC-certified hotel, The Apurva Kempinski Bali is not only setting a new benchmark for luxury hospitality but also leading the way in sustainable tourism. This achievement is a testament to the resort's comprehensive and ongoing commitment to sustainability, benefiting the environment, local communities, and cultural heritage while delivering exceptional guest experiences.

Coolberg’s ‘No Rules, Just Cool’ Campaign Speaks Gen Z’s Language

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 18, 2025

Coolberg, India’s leading non-alcoholic beer brand, has just dropped a campaign that’s as fearless and refreshing as its drinks. Titled “No Rules, Just Cool,” the campaign celebrates individuality, quirk, and the spirit of doing your own thing—just the way Gen Z likes it.

In a world shaped by social filters and rulebooks, Coolberg throws the script out the window. The campaign is more than just a marketing push—it’s a mindset. From bold relationship advice to powerful messaging around authenticity, it encourages people to be unapologetically themselves. Because for Coolberg, cool isn’t about fitting in—it’s about standing out.

Rolling out across platforms like Snapchat, Spotify, Meta, and top OTT channels, the campaign connects with young audiences where they are. And the message is clear: “The best rebounds aren’t people. They’re mindset shifts.”

“Coolberg is the ultimate drink for Gen Z as it's fun, inclusive and unique,” says Shubham Shukla, Head – Marketing at Ghodawat Consumer Limited. “With No Rules, Just Cool, we aim to align with Gen Z’s mindset—a generation that thrives on authenticity, individuality, and freedom of expression. We’re not just selling a beverage; we’re building a culture.”

Coolberg’s journey has been nothing short of dynamic. Acquired in 2022 by Ghodawat Consumer Limited (GCL), a key player in India’s FMCG space, Coolberg quickly scaled up. Today, it's available in over 50,000 retail outlets across 150 cities and exported to 15+ countries. The brand is also served at major fast food chains like KFC, Barbeque Nation, and WoW Momos, and is listed on Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy Instamart, Flipkart Minutes, and Amazon.

About Ghodawat Consumer Limited (GCL)

GCL, the FMCG arm of Sanjay Ghodawat Group, has been redefining everyday consumption with its wide range of products under the ‘Star’ brand—covering everything from cooking oils and atta to snacks and beverages. Its premium portfolio includes TBH (a real veggie snack brand) and Coolberg.

About Sanjay Ghodawat Group (SGG)

Founded in 1993, SGG is a diversified conglomerate with interests in aviation, education, retail, energy, and more. With over 10,000 employees and 21,000+ students across institutions, SGG continues to impact lives with its innovation-driven approach and commitment to excellence.

PM Modi Inaugurates India’s First Vertical Lift Sea Bridge in Rameswaram

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 7, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a historic moment on the occasion of Ram Navami by inaugurating India’s first vertical lift sea bridge—the new Pamban Bridge—in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. The event was accompanied by the launch of the Rameswaram–Tambaram Express, a new train service enhancing connectivity between the temple town and Chennai.

Built at a cost of over ₹550 crore, the 2.08-kilometre-long bridge connects Rameswaram Island to mainland India and features a 72.5-metre vertical lift span that can rise up to 17 metres, allowing ships to pass smoothly without disrupting train movement. Designed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), this modern engineering marvel replaces the iconic British-era Pamban Bridge, which served pilgrims and traders for over a century since 1914.

The new structure incorporates advanced materials like stainless steel reinforcements, high-grade protective coatings, and fully welded joints, making it highly durable and corrosion-resistant. Capable of handling speeds up to 80 kmph, the bridge is designed for a 100-year lifespan and supports dual rail tracks for future traffic needs.

PM Modi also flagged off a Coast Guard ship that sailed beneath the elevated span during the event, showcasing the bridge's sea-lift functionality. Visuals of the first train crossing the newly inaugurated bridge added to the symbolic significance of the day, as the event coincided with the “Surya Tilak” celebration in Ayodhya—an alignment the Prime Minister referred to as a “divine coincidence.”

Notable dignitaries present at the ceremony included Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, and state Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu. The absence of Chief Minister MK Stalin was noted. PM Modi had just returned from a three-day visit to Sri Lanka and received a warm welcome from local leaders, including Union Minister L Murugan and BJP Tamil Nadu chief K Annamalai.

With improved connectivity and a future-ready design, the new Pamban Bridge is poised to become a key gateway to South India's spiritual tourism circuit, while also strengthening regional infrastructure.

Kadak Surve – Chai Bhari: Society Tea Unveils Power-Packed Ad Film Featuring Riteish Deshmukh

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 26, 2025

Society Tea, a brand deeply rooted in Maharashtra’s tea culture, has launched its latest ad campaign, ‘Kadak Surve – Chai Bhari’, starring Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh. The film pays homage to the bold and full-bodied essence of kadak chai, a favorite across the state.

The campaign introduces Riteish Deshmukh as Kadak Surve, a fearless cop who embodies the spirit of kadakness. Shot in Marathi and Hindi, the ad film reflects the deep-rooted love for strong, dust tea in Maharashtra, with high-energy storytelling, dynamic visuals, and a compelling narrative.

A Tribute to Maharashtra’s Love for Chai

"Kadak chai is more than just a beverage—it's an emotion," said Karan Shah, Director, Society Tea. "With ‘Kadak Surve – Chai Bhari,’ we wanted to encapsulate the strength and energy that a cup of our dust tea delivers. Riteish Deshmukh brings this vision to life with his dynamic presence, making this campaign truly bhari!"

The power-packed ad film is now live across Meta and YouTube, inviting chai lovers to experience the boldness of Society Tea’s dust tea.

TVC Credits

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