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.


Frill Hospitality Launches Online Hotel Toiletries Shop: Premium Amenities Now Just a Click Away

Frill Hospitality Launches Online Hotel Toiletries Shop: Premium Amenities Now Just a Click Away

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 21, 2025

In a move to streamline procurement for the hospitality industry, Frill Hospitality, a leading Indian manufacturer and supplier of hotel toiletries, has recently launched its dedicated online store at www.hoteltoiletries.shop. This new platform allows hotels, resorts, and other hospitality businesses to directly order high-quality toiletries and amenities, with shipments delivered straight from the factory to their doorstep.

Frill Hospitality has long been recognized for its premium, Ayurvedic-inspired products that blend traditional wellness extracts with modern formulations. The online shop brings their extensive range directly to customers, addressing the need for quick, hassle-free access to toiletries, especially when supplies are required in short notice.

Wide Range of Premium Products

The store features an impressive selection of toiletries under Frill's signature brands, including Forestra, Sea Breeze, Isvara Naturals, and Divine. Key products include:

  • Core Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, and soap bars.
  • Amenity Kits: Dental kits, shaving kits, vanity kits, combs, shower caps, and more.

Packaging Variety: Options in boxes, pouches, plastic bottles, tubes, or eco-friendly materials like wooden elements. Products are available in guest-sized portions (e.g., 30-35ml bottles) as well as bulk formats, including large 5-liter cans for dispensers. 

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These products are designed to elevate the guest experience, offering luxurious scents, nourishing formulas, and sustainable options that align with modern hospitality standards.

Convenience and Trial Options

The launch emphasizes efficiency: orders are processed quickly, saving time on traditional procurement processes while ensuring reliable, direct deliveries. For hotels exploring options, the store offers sample kits, an affordable way to test various products and brands before committing to larger orders.

To explore the full catalogue and place orders, visit www.hoteltoiletries.shop. For bulk inquiries, custom branding, or any questions, reach out via email at info@frillhospitality.com or check their main site at www.frillhospitality.com.

This online initiative marks a significant step for Frill Hospitality in making premium hotel amenities more accessible, helping properties deliver exceptional comfort and care to their guests.


Pokiddo Junior Unwraps the Magic with a Grand Christmas Winter Ball in Mumbai

Pokiddo Junior Unwraps the Magic with a Grand Christmas Winter Ball in Mumbai

By Hariharan U

Published on December 21, 2025

This festive season, Pokiddo Junior is set to create holiday magic with its spectacular Christmas Winter Ball, a week-long celebration designed especially for children. Running from December 20 to 25, 2025, the event transforms Pokiddo Junior into a vibrant winter wonderland filled with creativity, talent, and festive cheer.

The celebrations begin on December 20 with the Grand Winter Ball, featuring interactive workshops in grooming, fashion, and dance. These sessions are thoughtfully curated to help children build confidence, express themselves, and prepare for the grand festive finale. The excitement builds up to December 25, when the much-awaited Pokiddo Jr. Christmas Ball takes centre stage, along with the Ms & Mr Pokiddo 2025 pageant.

Throughout the week, children can enjoy festive décor, themed photo booths, grooming and etiquette sessions, dance rehearsals, and special meet-and-greet moments with Santa and Pokiddo’s beloved characters. A key highlight is the Pokiddo Junior Prince and Princess 2025 pageant, where children participate by submitting their heartfelt “Letters to Santa,” celebrating imagination, confidence, and individuality. Winners will be crowned in a glittering ceremony with crowns, sashes, and exclusive Pokiddo Passports.

Adding to the experience is the Royal Pass, offering premium access to the celebrations. The pass includes entry for one child and one adult, access to all curated activities, and a seat at the Royal Buffet, featuring over 15 kid-friendly festive favourites. Early Bird pricing makes it easier for families to be part of this much-talked-about celebration.

With a strong focus on creativity, confidence-building, and festive joy, Pokiddo Junior’s Christmas Winter Ball promises to be one of Mumbai’s most exciting holiday events for children this season.

Bookings are now open and can be made online.

Dates: 20th – 25th December 2025
Venue: Pokiddo Junior, Mumbai


2025 Emerges as a Landmark Year for Chennai’s Rapidly Expanding Hospitality Scene

2025 Emerges as a Landmark Year for Chennai’s Rapidly Expanding Hospitality Scene

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 21, 2025

2025 is shaping up to be the most significant year yet for Chennai’s hospitality sector, as the city continues to expand its hotel landscape with new signings, long-term developments and growing investor confidence. With rising demand from business travel, leisure tourism and the IT corridor, Chennai’s hospitality ecosystem is steadily evolving, creating new experiences and employment opportunities across the city.

Adding momentum to this growth, three global hospitality brands have identified Chennai as a key destination for future expansion: Courtyard by Marriott Chennai World Trade Center, JW Marriott Chennai OMR and The Ritz-Carlton Chennai. These announcements have generated strong anticipation among residents and industry stakeholders alike, reinforcing the city’s position as a growing hospitality hub in South India.

Courtyard by Marriott Chennai World Trade Center, anticipated to open in FY 2027, is expected to feature 45 thoughtfully designed guestrooms and two dining outlets. The hotel will include a modern fitness centre and reflect the brand’s classic design language, offering seamless service focused on comfort and connectivity. Located close to major commercial office complexes, the property will also benefit from being approximately 13 kilometres from Chennai International Airport. It will form part of a mixed-use development that includes the World Trade Center, residential spaces and retail outlets.

JW Marriott Chennai OMR is scheduled to open in FY 2030 and will bring 250 guestrooms and suites to the city. The property is planned to feature wellness-led offerings such as the Spa by JW, a swimming pool and a fitness centre. Additional highlights include a JW Garden, five dining venues and around 1,400 square metres of meeting and event space. Located along Old Mahabalipuram Road, Chennai’s prominent IT corridor, the hotel will cater to both leisure and business travellers. Both Marriott properties are being developed in collaboration with Brigade Hotel Ventures Limited.

Industry circles are also awaiting further updates on The Ritz-Carlton Chennai, with more details expected to be announced in the coming days, adding to the excitement surrounding luxury hospitality growth in the city.

Beyond these developments, Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) is strengthening its footprint in Chennai with multiple projects. IHCL, in collaboration with the Chennai-based Ampa Group and Bharathi Meraki, is developing Taj Skyview Residences and Hotel on Nelson Manickam Road. This project marks India’s first Taj-branded residences alongside a new Taj luxury hotel and is expected to open by December 2027.

In another major move, IHCL has announced the signing of a new Taj hotel on Chennai’s East Coast Road as a greenfield development, in partnership with MGM Healthcare. This further underlines the brand’s long-term confidence in Chennai’s hospitality potential.

With several premium and luxury hotels in the pipeline, Chennai is preparing to offer one of its strongest hospitality portfolios yet. The coming years are expected to redefine the city’s accommodation landscape, positioning Chennai to deliver world-class hospitality experiences while supporting economic growth and employment generation.

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