Validation Flight Successfully Lands at Andhra Pradesh’s Bhogapuram Airport

Validation Flight Successfully Lands at Andhra Pradesh’s Bhogapuram Airport

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 6, 2026

A major milestone was achieved in Andhra Pradesh’s aviation journey with the successful validation flight at the upcoming Bhogapuram Greenfield International Airport. The proving flight was operated using an Air India aircraft, with Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu onboard, marking a crucial step towards the airport’s commercial operations.

A validation or proving flight is an essential requirement before any new airport becomes operational. It assesses whether the airport meets stringent regulatory, safety, and airside operational standards. Officials said the successful completion of this flight clears a key hurdle and paves the way for the commencement of commercial services in the near future. The aircraft was accorded a ceremonial water salute on arrival.

“On the auspicious occasion of the successful experimental landing of the first flight at the Bhogapuram Greenfield International Airport, special greetings to the people of North Andhra,” said Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu in a post on X.

Highlighting the region’s growth prospects, the Civil Aviation Minister, Mr. Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu said North Andhra Pradesh holds vast tourism and economic potential that had remained underutilised for years. He added that the airport’s inauguration would be taken up shortly at the national level.

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“This is a historic milestone in the development journey of Andhra Pradesh. Visakhapatnam is set to become the economic capital of the east. The Bhogapuram airport will serve as a powerful engine of growth, creating employment opportunities, catalysing regional industries, and significantly enhancing connectivity for people and businesses alike. The airport will strengthen trade, boost exports, and unlock the immense tourism potential of Andhra Pradesh,” he said, adding that the airport was first envisioned during the earlier tenure of the Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister.

Envisaged as a gateway to India’s eastern coastline, the Bhogapuram airport will initially be capable of handling 6 million passengers per annum. Once operational, it is expected to replace the existing Visakhapatnam International Airport, which currently handles a lower passenger capacity, officials noted.

The airport is expected to serve a wide catchment area covering Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam, surrounding hinterlands, and parts of South Odisha, significantly improving regional and inter-state connectivity.

The project is being developed by GMR Visakhapatnam International Airport Limited (GVIAL), a wholly owned subsidiary of GMR Airports Limited, under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Airports Authority of India, the Andhra Pradesh government, and GMR Airports were present during the proving flight.

Spread across 2,203.26 acres, the airport’s passenger terminal will cover 77,342 square metres. The terminal will feature 22 check-in counters, 18 self-baggage drop units, four baggage carousels, and 31 X-ray machines. Plans also include 12 immigration counters, 14 emigration counters, and 12 Digi Yatra pods, aimed at offering a seamless and technology-enabled passenger experience.

With this successful validation flight, Bhogapuram Airport moves closer to becoming a critical aviation and economic hub for Andhra Pradesh and the eastern region.


Celebrate Mother's Day with Timeless Gifting from Candere

Celebrate Mother's Day with Timeless Gifting from Candere

By Hariharan U

Published on April 30, 2026

As Mother's Day approaches, the focus shifts to celebrating the quiet strength, care, and everyday moments that define motherhood. This year, Candere, a lifestyle jewellery brand from Kalyan Jewellers, offers a curated selection designed to feel personal, wearable, and meaningful.

Moving beyond occasion-based gifting, the collection highlights jewellery that seamlessly fits into everyday life, pieces that reflect her individuality while adding understated elegance to daily moments. Each design balances simplicity with thoughtful detailing, making it both timeless and versatile.

The edit includes the Rylie Diamond and Fancy Gemstone Ring, a floral-inspired design that combines vibrant pink stones with delicate diamond accents, bringing a playful yet refined touch. For those who prefer minimalism, the Plain Glimmer Diamond V Ring offers clean lines and subtle sparkle, perfect for stacking or wearing solo.

Adding to the collection is the Classic Treand Diamond Cuff Bracelet, featuring twin motifs with blue stones and diamond detailing, designed to elevate both everyday and occasion wear. The Enchanting Floral Diamond and Fancy Gemstone Oval Bracelet introduces a softer, more playful aesthetic with multicoloured gemstones set against a sleek band.

For statement pieces, the Armida Diamond Earrings stand out with their layered, cascading form that catches light with movement, while the Giselle Diamond Dangle Earrings bring effortless elegance through a graceful drop design and refined brilliance.

With this Mother’s Day edit, Candere focuses on jewellery that feels natural rather than extravagant, pieces that become part of her daily story while holding emotional value. The collection reflects a shift towards gifting that is thoughtful, personal, and enduring, making each piece more than just an accessory.


JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Hosts Immersive Fashion Showcase by Sounia Gohil

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Hosts Immersive Fashion Showcase by Sounia Gohil

By Hariharan U

Published on April 30, 2026

On April 25, EL at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar hosted an exclusive and intimate fashion showcase by designer Sounia Gohil, unveiling her latest collection in association with Volvo, presented by Cedamint by Vinay Singh.

Breaking away from the conventions of a traditional runway, the showcase embraced a more immersive and interactive format. Set against Mumbai’s skyline, EL offered a fluid, open environment where guests could experience the collection at their own pace. Models moved seamlessly through the space, allowing attendees to engage with the garments up close, creating a sense of intimacy rarely seen in conventional showcases.

The evening brought together a diverse mix of guests, from fashion insiders and tastemakers to patrons of luxury mobility and hospitality, reflecting a dynamic convergence of industries. The experience was complemented by a refined food and beverage selection, thoughtfully curated to enhance the evening without overshadowing the showcase.

More than a fashion presentation, the event highlighted a broader shift in how hospitality spaces are being reimagined. EL, known for its elevated dining and panoramic views, is steadily evolving into a multi-dimensional cultural venue that embraces fashion, design, music, and curated social experiences.

With this showcase, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar strengthens its positioning as not just a hospitality destination but a platform for creative expression and community-led experiences in the city.

Commenting on the initiative, Sachin Mylavarapu, General Manager at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, said, “At JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, we’re increasingly looking at how our spaces can go beyond traditional hospitality to become platforms for culture and creativity. Hosting this showcase at EL was a natural extension of that vision. We’re delighted to curate experiences that are refined, progressive, and engaging for our guests.”

Located close to Mumbai’s international and domestic airports, JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar offers 588 well-appointed rooms, multiple dining destinations, and expansive event spaces. Its venues, including Romano’s, JW Café, BarQat, and AUTM – JW Lounge & EL, reflect the city’s diverse culinary landscape. The property also features Spa by JW, offering holistic wellness experiences.

Part of Marriott International, the hotel aligns with a global portfolio of over 9,500 properties across 144 countries, continuing to bring world-class hospitality experiences to India


Niraamaya Retreats Kumarakom Wins ‘Most Luxurious Spa Resort’ Title

Niraamaya Retreats Kumarakom Wins ‘Most Luxurious Spa Resort’ Title

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 29, 2026

Niraamaya Retreats Backwaters & Beyond, Kumarakom has been awarded the title of ‘Most Luxurious Spa Resort’ at the Global Spa Awards 2025. The recognition highlights Niraamaya Life’s continued focus on offering wellness experiences built around authenticity, sustainability, and refined hospitality.

The award was presented on 22 April 2026 at JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, in the presence of key figures from the wellness and hospitality sectors, along with members of the film fraternity. Allen Machado, Chief Executive Officer, accepted the award on behalf of the organisation.

This marks the fourth time Niraamaya Life has been recognised at the Global Spa Awards, reflecting its consistent approach towards holistic wellbeing and guest-focused experiences. The brand’s philosophy centres on preventive wellness, with therapies and programmes designed to support long-term health and balance. The recognition also highlights the property’s curated spa journeys, inspired by nature-led treatments and the principles of Ayurveda.

Commenting on the recognition, Allen Machado stated:

“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the Global Spa Awards. It reflects the collective commitment of our teams to deliver preventive wellness experiences that support holistic wellbeing. We remain focused on advancing wellness hospitality through authenticity, personalisation, and consistency in delivery.”

Niraamaya Life continues to expand its presence in the wellness hospitality space, with plans to grow across both domestic and international markets over the next two years. This growth is supported by a clear focus on thoughtful programme design, calm environments, and intuitive service.

With this recognition, Niraamaya Life further strengthens its position as a leading wellness-focused hospitality brand, staying aligned with its vision of offering meaningful and immersive guest experiences.

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