The Leela Palaces Launches 'Shefs at The Leela' Program

The Leela Palaces Launches 'Shefs at The Leela' Program

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on March 20, 2024

The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and Resorts have introduced an exciting initiative aimed at nurturing aspiring female chefs – the 'Shefs at The Leela' Programme. This structured culinary development program not only serves as a pathway to a career in the hospitality industry but also provides a solid foundation for long-term success within The Leela organization.

Launched on International Women’s Day 2024, the 'Shefs at The Leela' Programme was unveiled during the 5th edition of the event held at The Leela Palace Jaipur. The event featured a grand gala dinner curated by globally acclaimed women chefs, showcasing their expertise and celebrating culinary excellence.

Since its inception in 2022, 'Shefs at The Leela' has successfully hosted editions at various Leela Palaces locations, promoting equality in kitchen spaces and offering opportunities for aspiring female chefs to pursue their culinary dreams.

Anuraag Bhatnagar, CEO of The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and Resorts, expressed the organization's commitment to diversity and equity, stating, "We at The Leela are dedicated to creating an inclusive work environment that celebrates the achievements of women in hospitality. With the 'Shefs at The Leela' Programme, we aim to provide a platform for aspiring female chefs to excel and carve a niche for themselves in the industry."

The program, certified by The Leela, combines academic study with comprehensive on-the-job training, aiming to develop the next generation of culinary experts in various cuisines. Additionally, quarterly 'Shefs at The Leela' events will foster a vibrant culinary community, featuring masterclasses, panel discussions, and curated dinners prepared by celebrated women chefs.

Structured over two years, the program consists of two phases focusing on developing foundational culinary skills and advancing expertise. Graduates receive certification from The Leela, priority consideration for internal transfers and career advancement, and serve as brand ambassadors of the program.

Furthermore, The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and Resorts are expanding their commitment to gender diversity with initiatives like the Leela Leadership Development Programme (LLDP), aimed at strengthening competencies and skills across all organizational levels.

The 'Shefs at The Leela' Programme is not just about empowering female chefs; it's about creating a supportive and inclusive environment where culinary talent can thrive and flourish.


Clarks Exotica Is Offering Special Spa Deals This Women's Day — and They're Worth It

Clarks Exotica Is Offering Special Spa Deals This Women's Day — and They're Worth It

By Hariharan U

Published on March 7, 2026

Sometimes the best way to celebrate Women's Day is also the simplest, just stop, breathe, and give yourself a proper break. And Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa is making that very easy to do this 8th March.

The resort is rolling out special Women's Day spa offers that are genuinely good value, the kind that make it hard to say no, whether you're treating yourself or gifting someone a little moment of calm.

Set in peaceful, serene surroundings, Clarks Exotica is already the kind of place that makes you exhale the moment you arrive. This Women's Day, they're leaning into that with curated spa experiences at prices that are hard to beat.

Here's what's on offer:

Foot Massage and  Massage Chair, Whether it's a quick midday reset or a thoughtful gift for a woman who deserves a little extra care  these offers tick both boxes without burning a hole in your pocket.

The resort's setting does the rest of the work. Stepping away from the usual rush, even for just an hour, can do a lot and having a calm, beautiful space to do it in makes the whole experience feel that much more special.

This Women's Day, Clarks Exotica is keeping it simple and meaningful — good care, honest prices, and a genuine invitation to slow down.

  • Date: 8th March 2026
  • Location: Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa

Sector 144 JP Nagar Is Hosting a Rooftop Women's Day Brunch — and It Sounds Like a Great Sunday

Sector 144 JP Nagar Is Hosting a Rooftop Women's Day Brunch — and It Sounds Like a Great Sunday

By Hariharan U

Published on March 7, 2026

Some celebrations don't need to be loud or over the top, sometimes the best ones are just good food, good people, and a rooftop with a view. And that's exactly the kind of Women's Day Sector 144 in JP Nagar is putting together.

The Bengaluru restaurant is marking the occasion with a specially curated Sunday brunch that keeps things relaxed, flavourful, and genuinely fun. Guests can pick from a thoughtful à la carte selection of dishes and refreshing beverages, all while soaking in the breezy rooftop ambience that the place is known for. It's the kind of afternoon that doesn't rush you, just lets you settle in, eat well, and enjoy the company around you.

The idea behind the brunch goes beyond just a meal. It's a small but heartfelt tribute to creativity, community, and the everyday warmth that women bring into the lives of those around them. Whether you're coming with your best friend, your mother, your colleagues, or just treating yourself the vibe is welcoming, the food is comforting, and the atmosphere is everything a lazy Sunday should feel like.

Comforting favourites sit alongside more contemporary plates on the menu, with drinks to match. The rooftop setting adds a light, open feel to the whole experience  lively enough to feel festive, but laid-back enough that you can actually slow down and savour the moment.

More than anything, it's about togetherness shared stories, joyful moments, and the kind of afternoon you'll want to repeat. Sector 144 has always had a warm, easy hospitality about it, and this Women's Day brunch feels like a natural extension of that.

Here are the details:

  • Where: Sector 144, JP Nagar — 4th Floor, above Style Union, JP Nagar 7th Phase, Karnataka 560078
  • When: 8th March 2026
  • Time: 12:30 PM onwards

If you're looking for a genuinely good way to spend Women's Day in Bengaluru, this one's worth showing up for.


Suba Hotels Opens Its Third Property in Ayodhya — And It's Right Next to Ram Janmabhoomi

Suba Hotels Opens Its Third Property in Ayodhya — And It's Right Next to Ram Janmabhoomi

By Hariharan U

Published on March 6, 2026

Suba Hotels Limited just made its third move in Ayodhya, and it's a big one. The hospitality group has opened a brand-new Click Collection Hotel in the holy city, adding to its two already-running properties, Quality Inn Rama and Click Hotel Narayana, Ayodhya.

The new hotel sits close to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, which makes it a natural pick for pilgrims visiting the city. It's also a short distance from Hanuman Garhi Temple and the Saryu Ji Aarti site, two other spots that draw large crowds of devotees. Guests even get a complimentary shared drop service to the temple gate, which is a thoughtful touch for those travelling for religious purposes.

Talking about the launch, Managing Director Mansur Mehta shared, "The city's evolving hospitality landscape presents a unique opportunity for the company to make steady progress in this important temple town and pilgrimage destination. We see significant business potential here, and this expansion reflects our commitment to delivering quality service and warm hospitality. Our existing two properties in Ayodhya have been performing strongly, and, encouraged by this positive response, we decided to further strengthen our presence in the city."

The group's CEO, Mubeen Mehta, also pointed out that this isn't just about Ayodhya, it's part of a larger plan. "We have been consciously expanding our presence in religious destinations. We already have a strong footprint in Varanasi and Vindhyachal, both prominent pilgrimage centres. With rising demand in this segment, we see tremendous potential in further strengthening our presence across key pilgrimage destinations."

The hotel has 48 rooms spread across three categories, all designed to keep comfort and practicality in mind, especially for families and pilgrims who need a reliable place to rest. Rooms come equipped with air conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi, a tea/coffee maker, minibar, LED smart TV, and an in-room safe, among other amenities.

For food, the hotel has Cinnamon, a vegetarian restaurant that serves a range of Indian dishes, keeping in mind the preferences of pilgrims visiting the city. The property also has modern banqueting facilities for group needs.

With Ayodhya growing fast as a pilgrimage and tourism hub, Suba Hotels seems well-placed to ride that wave and this third property adds another solid layer to their presence in the city.

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