The Leela Gandhinagar Appoints Prakash Shah as Director of Engineering

The Leela Gandhinagar Appoints Prakash Shah as Director of Engineering

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 18, 2024

The Leela Gandhinagar has announced the appointment of Prakash Shah as its new Director of Engineering. In his new role, Mr. Shah will be responsible for overseeing the hotel’s engineering operations, as well as the Mahatma Mandir Convention and Exhibition Centre, which is managed by The Leela Gandhinagar.

With over 32 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Mr. Shah has an extensive background, having worked with prominent hotel brands such as Oberoi, Taj, Accor, and Radisson Hotels. His most recent position was as Corporate Head of Engineering at Radisson Blu MBD Hotel, where he oversaw engineering and maintenance operations across multiple properties.

Mr. Shah’s vast expertise includes hotel pre-opening setups, project handovers, and facility management. He has led numerous initiatives in procurement, contract management, and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements. Additionally, he has been at the forefront of energy conservation efforts, leveraging cutting-edge systems and technologies to optimize operational efficiency.

Vikas Sood, General Manager of The Leela Gandhinagar, expressed his enthusiasm for Mr. Shah’s appointment, saying, "We are excited to welcome Prakash Shah as our new Director of Engineering. His vast experience and expertise in engineering, combined with his commitment to energy conservation and sustainable practices, align perfectly with The Leela Gandhinagar's values of excellence and innovation. We are confident his leadership will further elevate our engineering standards and operational efficiency."

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Commenting on his new role, Prakash Shah said, "I am thrilled to join The Leela Gandhinagar and I look forward to contributing to the exceptional standards of engineering and sustainability that are integral to this iconic property. It is a privilege to be part of such a prestigious brand, and I am keen to lead the team in further enhancing the guest experience through engineering excellence."

Mr. Shah holds a diploma in electrical engineering and a certificate in electrical service technology from the Technical Examination Board in Gujarat. His commitment to excellence and energy conservation makes him an ideal fit for The Leela Gandhinagar, known for its innovative approach to hospitality and sustainability.

The Leela Gandhinagar is confident that with Mr. Shah at the helm of its engineering department, the hotel will continue to set benchmarks in operational efficiency and guest satisfaction.


Saurabh Arya Appointed as Associate Vice President – Domestic MICE at FCM Meetings & Events in India

Saurabh Arya Appointed as Associate Vice President – Domestic MICE at FCM Meetings & Events in India

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 8, 2025

Saurabh Arya has been appointed as Associate Vice President – Domestic MICE at FCM Meetings & Events in India.

With more than two decades of experience in the travel and events industry, Saurabh brings a strong background in contracting, vendor management, liaising, and project execution. He began his career with MakeMyTrip and most recently served as Senior General Manager – Procurement and Execution at Thomas Cook India Ltd.

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At FCM Meetings & Events, Saurabh will lead the domestic MICE segment, focusing on elevating event experiences and driving strategic growth across the Indian market. His appointment marks a significant step in strengthening FCM’s position in the MICE domain, combining operational excellence with innovative event delivery.

With his deep industry knowledge and leadership, FCM is set to achieve new milestones in the domestic events landscape.


India Flexes Readiness with Operation Sindoor Led by Women in Uniform and Nationwide Mock Drill

India Flexes Readiness with Operation Sindoor Led by Women in Uniform and Nationwide Mock Drill

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 7, 2025

On May 7, 2025, India witnessed a rare alignment of strategic action and civil preparedness. As part of a national push to enhance wartime readiness, the Ministry of Home Affairs directed 244 districts to conduct a large-scale Civil Defence Mock Drill, simulating real-time emergency scenarios like air raids, blackouts, evacuations, and first-aid training. This exercise marked the first such nationwide drill since the 1971 war.

Coinciding with this drill was a decisive military action—Operation Sindoor, a meticulously planned strike by the Indian Armed Forces targeting nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation was launched in direct response to the recent brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians lost their lives.

The operation’s name, Sindoor, carried deep cultural significance. Named after the red vermilion worn by married Hindu women, it was a tribute to the widows and families of those who perished in the Pahalgam attack. The symbolism wasn't just in the name—it extended to the leadership behind its announcement.

For the first time, two decorated women officers—Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi of the Indian Army—led the press briefing from the National Media Centre, New Delhi. Their poised presence on national television not only conveyed India's military intent but also marked a historic shift in the representation of women in defence communication.

Meanwhile, the mock drill exercises included city-wide blackouts, activation of air raid sirens, school evacuations, public training at community centers, and protection simulations of critical infrastructure such as hospitals and power stations. Volunteers, students, health workers, police, and district officials coordinated the drill to identify gaps and improve emergency response mechanisms.

Government officials emphasized that the timing of the drill and the military strike was no coincidence. It was a dual-layered show of strength—one on the battlefield, the other in civil society. Together, they reflected India’s evolving national defence doctrine that blends military precision, civilian readiness, and symbolic unity.

With Wing Commander Singh and Colonel Qureshi leading from the front, India sent a powerful message—not only about its strategic capabilities, but also about the inclusive, resilient, and forward-looking spirit of the nation.

List of All 244 Locations for the Mock Drill

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Spectrum@Metro and Fever FM Bring Cricket Fever to Life with ‘Ball Kids’ Bash

Spectrum@Metro and Fever FM Bring Cricket Fever to Life with ‘Ball Kids’ Bash

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 7, 2025

Spectrum@Metro Mall, in a spirited collaboration with Fever FM, turned up the excitement with a two-day cricket extravaganza — Ball Kids — celebrating the boundless energy and cricket dreams of young fans.

Hosted by popular RJs Rahul Makin and Ilahi, the event featured engaging commentary, lively interactions, and nonstop fun. The box cricket format brought kids together for friendly matches filled with enthusiasm, team spirit, and plenty of memorable moments.

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Participants vied for exciting rewards including signed bats, jerseys, and exclusive merchandise, while the mall buzzed with cheer and cricket-themed excitement.

Ajendra Singh, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Spectrum@Metro, shared,

“We were thrilled to see the incredible talent and enthusiasm of these young cricket fans. At Spectrum@Metro, we are committed to creating engaging experiences that bring families and communities together, and this event was a perfect example of that spirit.”

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With community-focused initiatives like these, Spectrum@Metro continues to reinforce its role as not just a retail hub, but a vibrant destination for connection, celebration, and shared joy.

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