Few journeys in the culinary world are as inspiring as that of Jerson Montereyjack Fernandes. Today, as Director of Culinary Operations at Sodexo India and a Guinness World Record holder, Chef Jerson exemplifies how passion and perseverance can turn humble beginnings into extraordinary achievements. His mantra "Never forget your roots", underscores a career built not just on technical mastery, but on heart, purpose, and authenticity.

Chef Jerson holds the unique distinction of being the only Indian chef to cook twice for the White House Delegates, USA. A testament to his international caliber. His accolades speak volumes: India’s Best Chef 2021-22 and 2022-23, Star Chef Award of India 2019, and felicitations from the Chief Minister of Goa and the Mayor of Mumbai. He also became India’s first Executive Hotel Chef to deliver a TEDx talk, sharing culinary wisdom with a broader audience. He was also recognized as the most Creative chef of India in 2016 and 2017.

From corporate boardrooms to Bollywood sets, Chef Jerson’s clientele reads like a roll call of Indian excellence. He has crafted meals for the whose who of the corporate, sporting and glamor industry. To name a few, business titans such as Azeem Premji (Wipro), Rohit Java (Hindustan Unilever), Sindhu G (SAP), Naveen Jindal (Jindal Steel) etc, while delighting Bollywood stars Kareena Kapoor, Abhishek Bachchan, Ajay Devgan, Vicky Kaushal etc, Tollywood heroes Prabhas, Ravi Teja, Sathyaraaj etc and sports legends Steve Waugh, Kapil Dev, Mary Kom, Leander Paes etc.

Beyond the glamour, Chef Jerson has pioneered meaningful initiatives. He became India’s first Executive Chef to train and collaborate with special needs children, a CSR effort close to his heart. He has also imparted culinary training to the armed forces at INS Hamla, earning their special recognition.

With 150,000 plus organic Instagram followers, 4 million average monthly views, and 61,000+ LinkedIn connections making him the second-most-followed Indian chef globally, Jerson has mastered the art of digital storytelling. His appearances on the sets of MasterChef India in 2024 and 2025 further cemented his status as a household name.

Chef Jerson Fernandes proves that with dedication, humility, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, even a dishwasher can cook for the world’s best and inspire millions along the way. His journey shows that humble beginnings are no barrier to extraordinary achievements. From cooking for the celebrities to mentoring future chefs, his story blends talent with heart. Beyond awards and recognition, his work inspires, uplifts, and makes a meaningful impact. He proves that with passion, perseverance, and purpose, even the loftiest dreams are within reach.

Chef Jerson currently heads the Corporate Food segment for Sodexo India, the French multinational renowned for its global food and facilities services. He reports to Mr. Rakesh Agarwal (COO – Corporate Food, India), whom he fondly regards as his guiding light and mentor in the corporate world.

Devki Nandan Saini has officially joined Regenta Anantam Resort Khatu Shyam Ji as the Sales Manager, bringing expertise and enthusiasm to the pre-opening phase of this upcoming 4-star property. Strategically located near the sacred Khatu Shyam Ji Temple, the resort aims to offer visitors a blend of comfort, luxury, and spiritual connection.

Regenta Anantam features 120 elegantly designed rooms, a pure-vegetarian restaurant called Amritam, the Prasadam Coffee Shop, and grand venues suited for weddings and special events. Every facility has been thoughtfully created to ensure a premium hospitality experience that caters to both leisure and spiritual travellers.

Expressing excitement about the new role, Devki said, “I am thrilled to be part of the pre-opening team and look forward to welcoming guests soon to Regenta Anantam Resort Khatu Shyam Ji – near the Holy Temple.”

As the resort prepares to open its doors, the team is focused on creating an inviting and memorable experience for every visitor, combining luxury, tradition, and exceptional service.

Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park have announced Sujeet Kumar as their new cluster general manager. In this role, Kumar will lead operations at the dual-branded property, strengthening its position as one of Bengaluru’s most dynamic hospitality destinations.

With more than 30 years of global hospitality experience across leading international brands, Kumar brings a strong record in leadership, operations, and delivering exceptional guest experiences. A graduate of the renowned WGSHA, he began his career as a management trainee before rising to senior leadership roles with ITC Hotels, Marriott International, and Conrad Hotels.

Over the years, Kumar has managed some of Asia’s most iconic hotels, including JW Marriott Medan, The Westin Pune, Sheraton Colombo, Sheraton Grand Bangalore, Sheraton Grand Jakarta, and ITC Ratnadipa Colombo. Known for inspiring high-performing teams and demonstrating strong strategic and financial skills, he has consistently driven market leadership, particularly in food and beverage operations.

At Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, which houses 619 keys and is a flagship property for Hilton India, Kumar will oversee day-to-day operations while enhancing the hotel’s reputation as a vibrant destination for business and leisure travellers.

Commenting on his appointment, Kumar said, “It is an honour to rejoin Bengaluru, a city close to my heart, and to lead Hilton’s flagship dual-brand property in India. I look forward to working with the talented team here to further elevate our guest experience and reinforce Hilton’s leadership in this vibrant market.”