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.


Safaris Are Back at Kabini and Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge Is Ready to Welcome You

Safaris Are Back at Kabini and Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge Is Ready to Welcome You

By Hariharan U

Published on March 10, 2026

Good news for wildlife lovers,safaris are back at the Nagarahole Tiger Reserve, and Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge is once again welcoming guests to experience one of India's most celebrated wildlife corridors.

Following the Karnataka Forest Department's announcement on the resumption of safari operations across the Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves, safaris in the Kabini region officially restarted on 22nd February 2026. Operations are currently running with restricted seating capacity and a limited number of vehicles as part of a phased reopening under revised guidelines issued by forest and wildlife authorities,a measured approach that keeps responsible access to the forest ecosystem at the centre of the restart.

The suspension had lasted several weeks, during which wildlife tourism activity came to a halt across the Bandipur-Nagarahole-Kabini landscape impacting not just travellers but also the local communities and livelihoods that depend on responsible wildlife travel. The resumption is being seen as a significant step towards reviving the region's tourism economy while keeping conservation values intact.

Jose Ramapuram, Director – Marketing at Evolve Back, shared his thoughts on the development,"Safaris are an integral part of the Kabini experience, allowing guests to witness one of India's richest wildlife habitats. The resumption of safari operations is encouraging for the local ecosystem of communities and stakeholders that depend on responsible wildlife travel to build their livelihoods. We look forward to welcoming guests back to experience the forests of Kabini."

Evolve Back Kuruba Safari Lodge sits on the banks of the Kabini River, right on the edge of Nagarahole National Park,a location that puts guests in the heart of one of India's most biodiverse regions. The lodge draws deep inspiration from the traditions of the indigenous Kadu Kuruba community, weaving their cultural heritage into the guest experience in a way that feels genuine and grounded. This Spirit of the Land philosophy,celebrating the natural and cultural identity of the region,runs through everything Evolve Back does across its properties.

For anyone who has been waiting to make the trip to Kabini, this is the signal to start planning. The forests are open, the wildlife is waiting, and one of India's most thoughtfully designed safari lodges is ready to make it count.


Frill Hospitality Marks 10 Years with New Launches at AAHAR 2026

Frill Hospitality Marks 10 Years with New Launches at AAHAR 2026

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 10, 2026

Frill Hospitality, a leading Indian manufacturer and supplier of premium hotel amenities and toiletries, is participating in AAHAR 2026, one of the country’s prominent hospitality and food industry exhibitions. The event is taking place from 10 to 14 March at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi and also marks the company’s 10th anniversary.

At this year’s exhibition, Frill Hospitality is introducing two new eco-friendly products under its portfolio. These include Qyro Toothpaste in an eco-friendly Craft Pouch and Qyro Shave Gel in an eco-friendly Craft Pouch. The products are designed to support sustainable hospitality practices while ensuring comfort and convenience for hotel guests.

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Known for supplying luxury bath products, shampoos, soaps, and other in-room amenities, Frill Hospitality has steadily built its presence across the hospitality sector in India. With sustainability becoming an important focus for hotels and resorts, the company continues to introduce solutions that combine quality with responsible design.

As a contributor to sustainable hospitality, Frill Hospitality aims to develop products that are practical for hotels while also reducing environmental impact. The newly launched craft pouch packaging reflects this approach, offering an eco-friendly alternative without compromising on guest experience.

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The company will also showcase its Isvara Naturals range at the exhibition. Crafted intentionally for modern luxury stays, the range is trusted by several hotels and resorts and is designed to meet the expectations of contemporary hospitality spaces.

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Visitors attending AAHAR 2026 can explore Frill Hospitality’s range of eco-friendly and luxury in-room amenities at the brand’s stall during the event. The company invites industry professionals to visit and learn more about its latest product launches and sustainable hospitality offerings.

For more information about Frill Hospitality and its products, visitors can also explore the company’s official website. https://www.frillhospitality.com/ 


Himalayan O₂ – The Tehri Lake Festival 2026 Inaugurated in Uttarakhand

Himalayan O₂ – The Tehri Lake Festival 2026 Inaugurated in Uttarakhand

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 10, 2026

The Himalayan O₂ – The Tehri Lake Festival 2026 was inaugurated at Tehri Lake from 7 to 9 March 2026, marking another important step in promoting Uttarakhand as a destination for adventure tourism. The event was officially launched by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Sri Pushkar Singh Dhami at Koti Colony in Tehri.

Addressing a large gathering that included athletes, tourists, and local residents from across India and abroad, the Chief Minister shared the government’s vision of transforming Tehri into a global hub for tourism and adventure sports. He expressed confidence that the scenic Tehri Lake, surrounded by the Himalayas, will soon gain international recognition for tourism, culture, and outdoor adventure activities.

Highlighting the purpose of the festival, Sri Pushkar Singh Dhami said the initiative brings together tourism, sports, environmental awareness, and local culture on a single platform. He noted that Tehri Lake is not only known for its natural beauty but is also emerging as an important centre for adventure sports. The festival marks the third international-level event hosted at the lake in the past two months.

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The Chief Minister also spoke about several development projects currently underway in the region. Projects worth more than ₹1,300 crore are being implemented to strengthen tourism infrastructure. These include the development of Tehri Lake, construction of a ring road, and the transformation of Timad village into a tourism village.

Adventure activities such as kayaking, canoeing, jet-skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving are becoming increasingly popular at the lake. The state government is also working on developing modern training facilities to support young athletes from Uttarakhand and help them compete at national and international levels.

During the event, the Chief Minister announced that the Koti Colony–New Tehri Ropeway will be developed to further improve tourism infrastructure in the region.

He also mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi shares a strong emotional connection with Uttarakhand and has consistently encouraged initiatives that support tourism and development in the state. The Chief Minister highlighted other sporting events promoted in Uttarakhand, including the high-altitude marathon at Adi Kailash and the MTB Challenge in Mana Village.

Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal said the festival is helping connect different parts of the district while supporting regional development. Tehri MP Mala Rajya Lakshmi Shah added that collective efforts are essential for the overall progress of Tehri and for strengthening its recognition at national and international levels.

Several public representatives and officials were also present at the event, including MLAs Kishore Upadhyay, Vikram Singh Negi, Vinod Kandari, and Shakti Lal Shah, OBC Commission Chairman Sanjay Negi, District Panchayat President Ishita Sajwan, and District Magistrate Nitika Khandelwal, along with athletes, tourists, and local residents in large numbers.

Himalayan O₂ – The Tehri Lake Festival is District Tehri Garhwal’s flagship celebration that brings together adventure, culture, and creativity. The multi-day festival features sports competitions, cultural performances, and artistic showcases, attracting participants from across India. The event aims to highlight regional talent while promoting sustainable tourism and the vibrant spirit of the Himalayas.

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