Women Who Lead: Trailblazing Entrepreneurs in the Food & Beverage Industry

Women Who Lead: Trailblazing Entrepreneurs in the Food & Beverage Industry

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 5, 2025

The food and beverage industry has long been a challenging space, yet these remarkable women have broken barriers to carve their own path. As International Women's Day draws near, we recognize and celebrate the achievements of women who have not only established thriving culinary businesses but have also inspired countless others with their entrepreneurial spirit and innovation.

Divya Kadam – Baliboo

Mumbai’s Baliboo is the brainchild of Divya Kadam, a passionate entrepreneur who transformed her love for travel and food into a vibrant dining experience. Launched in 2023, Baliboo quickly became a hotspot for those seeking a tropical escape within the city. Despite having no background in hospitality, Divya’s global culinary explorations inspired her to create a space that blends exotic flavors, immersive ambiance, and a unique dining culture.

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Geeta Amin – Amelia

With over three decades in architecture, Geeta Amin’s expertise goes beyond structures—it extends into crafting experiences. As the visionary behind Amelia, a contemporary European dining destination in Mumbai’s OneBKC, Geeta merges her passion for design and fine dining. Drawing inspiration from her travels across 75+ countries, she has created a space that is both culturally rich and architecturally stunning. Beyond hospitality, she is also a celebrated wildlife photographer with her work published in the official book of Ranthambore Tiger Reserve.

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Bobby Patel – Thyme & Whisk and Mad Doh

A certified culinary and baking chef, Bobby Patel has redefined the vegetarian and plant-based dining experience. As the Culinary Director of Thyme & Whisk and Mad Doh, she has championed sustainability and innovation in food. Her flagship brand, Thyme & Whisk, launched in Vadodara in 2018, has expanded to 16 locations. Mad Doh, a Mumbai-based venture, is on the path of rapid expansion into major Indian cities. With expertise certified by City & Guilds London, Bobby is at the forefront of creating delectable and mindful culinary experiences.

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Eesha Sukhi – The BlueBop Cafe

From the corporate world to the culinary stage, Eesha Sukhi’s journey has been one of passion and transformation. In 2019, she launched The BlueBop Cafe in Mumbai’s Khar, a space known for its exceptional cuisine and live jazz performances. Her commitment to quality food and immersive entertainment has earned the cafe multiple accolades, including the Times Food & Nightlife Award for three consecutive years. Eesha’s story is a testament to how passion and strategic vision can create a successful brand.

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Rinka Jha & Rashmi Mehra – Two Gud Sisters

From friendship to entrepreneurship, Rinka Jha and Rashmi Mehra co-founded Two Gud Sisters with a mission to create a space where food fosters connections. Their venture reflects their shared love for quality products, homemade flavors, and meaningful experiences. Whether through handcrafted meals, artisanal coffee, or innovative culinary offerings, they have cultivated a brand that resonates with people seeking warmth and authenticity in their dining experiences.

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Aayusha Joshi – ZAKÌ

Taking over a 25-year-old Mumbai bakery and transforming it into a contemporary brand, Aayusha Joshi is redefining tradition with a fresh perspective. Armed with a BA (Hons) in Entrepreneurship from NMIMS and a design certification from ISDI Mumbai in collaboration with Parsons School of Design, Aayusha blends aesthetics with culinary expertise. Her passion for exploring global cuisines and desserts fuels the evolution of ZAKÌ, creating a brand that respects its roots while embracing innovation.

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Neha Chowdhury – Courtyard by Marriott

With nearly 20 years in luxury hospitality, Neha Chowdhury, Director of Sales & Marketing at Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport, is a force to be reckoned with. Her deep understanding of business strategy and human connection makes her a leader who not only drives revenue but also shapes guest experiences. Neha’s success reinforces the belief that women can excel in leadership roles, inspiring the next generation of female professionals in the industry.

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These women have redefined the food and beverage industry with their dedication, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit. Their journeys serve as a beacon of inspiration, proving that passion and perseverance can transform dreams into thriving businesses.


5 Best Sites Offering Festive Flight Deals This Season

5 Best Sites Offering Festive Flight Deals This Season

By Hariharan U

Published on December 3, 2025

Festive travel in India often comes with excitement and rising airfares. With families planning reunions, quick getaways and year-end breaks, booking flights can get expensive as the season gets closer. Thankfully, several travel platforms are offering attractive festive deals, cashback options and flash discounts to make the journey easier on your budget.

Whether you’re travelling home for Diwali, planning a winter break or exploring new destinations, the right booking platform can help you find pocket-friendly fares. Here are five trusted websites offering some of the best festive flight deals this year.

1. Wego
Wego is known for its simple interface and real-time fare comparisons across airlines and travel portals. This festive season, it’s rolling out app-only offers, special discounts and fare alerts to help you catch the lowest prices. For domestic and international trips, Wego ensures you never miss a good deal.

2. MakeMyTrip
MakeMyTrip’s festive offers are popular among Indian travellers, featuring cashback on select credit cards, wallet discounts and coupon codes. Their seasonal “Festive Sale” usually includes flash deals and savings on round-trip bookings, helping you book smarter during peak travel time.

3. Skyscanner
Skyscanner helps you track price drops and find the cheapest days to travel with its smart algorithms. This season, the platform is highlighting budget airline offers and multi-city flight options — ideal for travellers planning long festive breaks or visiting multiple destinations.

4. Cleartrip
Cleartrip is offering attractive festive-season savings through its partnerships with major banks like HDFC, ICICI and Axis. With extra discounts on select card payments and the Cleartrip Rewards program that lets you earn and redeem points, it makes festive travel more affordable.

5. Ixigo
Ixigo continues to gain popularity for its AI-powered fare alerts and Ixigo Money cashback. This festive season, it’s offering limited-time deals on domestic routes and bonus rewards for app bookings, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travellers.

With these platforms stepping up with smart tools and festive offers, planning your holiday travel becomes easier, faster and more affordable.


A Sustainable Christmas Shines at Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach

A Sustainable Christmas Shines at Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 3, 2025

Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach marked the beginning of the festive season with the unveiling and lighting of its Sustainable Christmas Tree, a thoughtful tribute to Andhra Pradesh’s cultural heritage and the hotel’s commitment to conscious hospitality. The ceremony welcomed guests, dignitaries and members of the media, creating a warm start to a joyful and meaningful Christmas season.

This year’s Christmas tree stands out for its sustainable design. Every element has been selected to honour local artisans, represent regional traditions and promote eco-friendly living. The installation blends culture, craftsmanship and responsibility, reflecting the hotel’s dedication to mindful celebrations.

Speaking about the initiative, Ms Lakshmi Sridhar, General Manager, Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, said, “Our Sustainable Christmas Tree is not just a festive centrepiece, it is a meaningful tribute to Andhra Pradesh’s artisans, a celebration of conscious craftsmanship, and a reflection of our commitment to honouring local traditions in a responsible way. At Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach, we take pride in championing initiatives that celebrate our community while promoting mindful hospitality.”

The tree features responsibly sourced Araku bamboo that represents purity and green living, handwoven Mangalagiri sarees that bring colour and elegance, and traditional toys from Ettikoppaka and Kondapalli that celebrate the state’s artistic heritage. Together, these elements highlight the region’s rich culture while supporting local craftspeople.

Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach looks forward to welcoming guests throughout the season to enjoy Christmas celebrations that are joyful, conscious and deeply connected to the community.


Swasthya Retreat at The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal Unveiled

Swasthya Retreat at The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal Unveiled

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 3, 2025

The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal has introduced its newest wellness experience, Swasthya Retreat, with an exclusive preview event hosted at The LaLiT Ashok Bengaluru. The gathering brought together wellness advocates, travel industry guests, and media friends for an early look at a programme that aims to redefine India’s holistic wellness landscape.

Located between the peaceful Nombili River and the Arabian Sea, The LaLiT Bekal is known as one of India’s most serene hideaways. With the arrival of Swasthya Retreat, the resort adds a new dimension to its offerings, where luxury blends with purpose to create a personalised journey of balance, healing, and renewal.

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Inspired by the Sanskrit concept of “Swasthya,” meaning a natural state of well-being, the retreat focuses on harmony between the body, mind, and spirit. Created in collaboration with Spiceology, it features six signature programmes: Panchakarma Detox, Pain & Joint Care, Weight Management, Anti-Ageing & Rejuvenation, Geriatric Care, and De-Stress & Burnout Recovery.

Each retreat is designed by experienced Ayurvedic physicians and yoga practitioners. Guests experience personalised therapies, sattvik cuisine, yoga, meditation, and lifestyle guidance. The programme also supports long-term well-being through pre-arrival consultations and post-retreat follow-ups to help guests continue their wellness journey even after their stay.

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The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal offers a setting where nature and comfort flow together. Spread across lush green landscapes, the resort features 38 luxury suites with private jacuzzis and lagoon views, along with a 20,000 sq. ft. Ayurvedic Spa that houses 11 treatment rooms. Days unfold in a calming rhythm of sunrise yoga, Ayurvedic rituals, fresh local meals, and quiet moments by the backwaters.

Swasthya Retreat is also a reflection of The LaLiT’s commitment to conscious living. The programme emphasises sustainability, inclusivity, and a deep respect for local culture, with initiatives such as farm-to-table ingredients, zero-waste kitchens, and support for regional craftsmanship.

Set across 26 acres of greenery, The LaLiT Resort & Spa Bekal continues to celebrate India’s heritage, art, and holistic living. With its Kerala-inspired architecture and its strong connection to the land and community, the resort brings together mindful luxury and meaningful experiences.

For reservations and enquiries, visit www.thelalit.com/the-lalit-bekal or email - resvbekal@thelalit.com spiceology.bekal@thelalit.com

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