Vaidya Smita Naram Honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award at Global Ayurveda Conference in USA

Vaidya Smita Naram Honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award at Global Ayurveda Conference in USA

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 21, 2025

Vaidya Smita Naram, Co-Founder of Ayushakti, has been honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 67th International Global Ayurveda Conference held earlier this month in Pennsylvania, USA. The event was hosted by the Association of Ayurvedic Professionals of North America (AAPNA), a global non-profit organisation committed to promoting Ayurveda across 135 countries.

The four-day conference, themed “Ayurveda and the Mind,” brought together over 45 leading Ayurvedic experts for an immersive experience featuring clinical lectures, case study discussions, Vedic fire ceremonies, meditation, and community satsangs. Key topics included ancient traditions like Ashram logistics and Vedic lineage, healing through awareness, natural anti-obesity remedies, mental health through Ayurveda, and practices such as Vastu and Jyotish.

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Vaidya Smita Naram was chosen for this prestigious honour for her extraordinary contributions to Ayurvedic science and clinical practice across the globe. A fifth-generation Vaidya, she holds the Siddha Veda lineage, one of the oldest Ayurvedic traditions. Through her institution Ayushakti, which has a presence in over 28 countries, she has played a pivotal role in modernising and globalising Ayurveda.

With over 38 years of experience, she has:
• Trained more than 500 Ayurvedic practitioners worldwide

• Authored 42+ peer-reviewed research papers published in international medical journals

• Created 100+ proprietary Ayurvedic herbal formulations, rooted in traditional practices and validated through modern lab testing

• Provided care to notable personalities like the Dalai Lama, Mother Teresa, and global dignitaries

Under her leadership, Ayushakti USA has grown into a trusted wellness destination offering:

  • Online consultations using ancient pulse reading diagnostics

  • Herbal supplements tested for safety and efficacy

  • Accredited Ayurvedic education grounded in 2,500 years of healing wisdom

Dr. Smita Naram is not only a renowned pulse reader and detoxification specialist, but also a powerful voice in Ayurveda’s global evolution. Her passion for sharing ancient health solutions continues to inspire practitioners and patients worldwide.


The Binge Town Expands to Mumbai, Chennai, and Noida with New Private Theatres

The Binge Town Expands to Mumbai, Chennai, and Noida with New Private Theatres

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 9, 2025

The Binge Town, India’s pioneering private theatre celebration brand, has expanded its footprint with the launch of new outlets in Mumbai, Chennai, and Noida, further cementing its presence as a go-to destination for intimate and personalized celebrations.

The new Mumbai outlet in Andheri features six private theatres, including a spacious 20-seater for larger groups and a cosy 2-seater theatre ideal for couples. In Chennai, the brand enters the market with a launch on OMR Perungudi, offering three private theatres. Noida welcomes its fifth Binge Town outlet in the NCR region, also with three private theatres tailored for private screenings and celebration moments.

With these new additions, The Binge Town now operates 58 private theatres across 16 outlets in six cities, with ambitious plans to expand to 20 branches by the end of 2025.

“We are thrilled to bring The Binge Town experience to more cities and communities,” said Yash Agarwal, Co-founder of The Binge Town. “Our mission is simple — to make celebrations hassle-free, grand, and affordable. Whether it’s a birthday, proposal, or movie night, our theatres turn ordinary moments into unforgettable memories.”

Launched in January 2022, the brand has already completed over 1 lakh bookings, thanks to its customized celebration packages, 150-inch screens, Sony 5.1 surround sound, recliner seating, and flexible food and décor setups. The brand has grown rapidly as an alternative to traditional cinemas and OTT viewing, especially for small group events.

Currently operating at an ARR of ₹30 crore, The Binge Town is targeting ₹50 crore by the end of FY 2025-26, reflecting India’s increasing demand for premium private experiences.

The expansion is a mix of company-owned and FOFO (Franchise Owned, Franchise Operated) models. The new Andheri branch is a company-owned outlet with an investment of around ₹1.2 crore, while Chennai and Noida operate under the FOFO model with an investment of around ₹40 lakh each.

All bookings are managed via www.thebingetown.com, where customers can select themes, content, food, and timing. The brand’s 85%+ customer satisfaction score showcases its focus on service quality and celebration innovation.

Looking ahead, The Binge Town plans to enter 10 Indian cities by 2026, tapping into the booming demand for private celebration venues. With over 60% of bookings driven by birthdays, followed by anniversaries, dates, and proposals, the brand continues to be the preferred destination for India’s special moments.


Le Meridien Opens in Ahmedabad, Blending Mid-Century Elegance with Local Heritage

Le Meridien Opens in Ahmedabad, Blending Mid-Century Elegance with Local Heritage

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 6, 2025

Marriott International has officially opened Le Meridien Ahmedabad, marking the brand’s debut in India’s first UNESCO World Heritage City through the transformation of Courtyard by Marriott. With 164 design-forward rooms and curated art installations, the hotel draws inspiration from mid-century modern aesthetics while paying homage to Ahmedabad’s textile heritage and architectural legacy.

Strategically located at the city’s heart, the hotel offers guests a sophisticated experience that blends global elegance with local culture. Interiors include azure-tinted glass pieces referencing the Sabarmati River and bespoke lobby art symbolising movement and life.

Culinary offerings span The Market for global cuisine with local accents, Java+ café with Illy coffee, Drift – a poolside lounge that transitions into evening dining, and Bayleaf – a refined Awadhi kitchen. The Le Scoop programme adds a fun touch with artisanal frozen treats. Guests can also enjoy a 20,000 sq. ft. event space, Explore Spa, fitness centre, and an outdoor pool.

Initiatives like Unlock Art, which offers access to Archer Art Gallery, and Family Passport, which curates interactive stays for families, reinforce the brand’s experiential approach. 

“Le Meridien Ahmedabad celebrates the city’s rich identity through thoughtful design, evocative cuisine, and curated experiences. This is a story waiting to be lived and shared,” said General Manager Prashant Chadha. Ranju Alex, Regional VP – South Asia, Marriott International, added, “We’re excited to bring Le Meridien to Ahmedabad, a perfect backdrop for our brand’s celebration of the good life through art, culture, and cuisine.”


Monday Hotels to Launch Fourth Property in Hyderabad at Shamshabad

Monday Hotels to Launch Fourth Property in Hyderabad at Shamshabad

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 5, 2025

Monday Hotels is all set to expand its footprint in Hyderabad with the launch of its fourth property in the city, located in the rapidly developing area of Shamshabad. Just a short drive from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport and seamlessly connected through the Outer Ring Road, this upcoming hotel is ideally positioned to cater to business travellers, tourists, and transit guests seeking easy access and modern comfort. Slated to open later this year, the new property will feature 38 well-appointed rooms, smart business amenities, and a curated dining experience, all designed with the evolving needs of today’s traveller in mind. 

The brand continues to grow its presence in key hubs, and the addition of the Shamshabad location aligns with Monday Hotels' mission to provide seamless stays across well-connected urban and transit destinations.

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“We’re thrilled to expand in Hyderabad with this new Shamshabad location, which perfectly matches our brand’s energy and vision,” said Salim Shaikh, Co-Founder of Monday Hotels. The announcement marks another milestone in the group’s steady growth across South India’s hospitality sector.

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