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.


IHCL Opens Ginger Ahmedabad, Kristar in Thaltej

IHCL Opens Ginger Ahmedabad, Kristar in Thaltej

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 15, 2025

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced the opening of Ginger Ahmedabad, Kristar, located in the vibrant neighbourhood of Thaltej. The launch further strengthens Ginger’s footprint in Ahmedabad, one of India’s fastest-growing urban centres.

Speaking on the opening, Ms. Deepika Rao, Executive Vice President – New Businesses & Hotel Openings, IHCL, said, “Ahmedabad is one of India’s fastest-growing urban centres, driven by its thriving industrial and entrepreneurial ecosystem. Ginger’s lean luxe offering resonates with the city’s evolving preference for smart, contemporary stays. With five Ginger hotels present in multiple micro markets of the city, the opening of Ginger Ahmedabad, Kristar reaffirms our commitment to cater to its increasing demand for quality hospitality.”

Designed to offer comfort and convenience, Ginger Ahmedabad, Kristar features well-planned rooms that reflect the brand’s contemporary design language. The hotel also houses Soulinaire, a global cuisine restaurant, catering to varied dining preferences of guests. In addition, the property offers versatile meeting spaces, making it suitable for both business and leisure travellers.

The hotel provides seamless access to key destinations across the city, allowing guests to explore Ahmedabad with ease while enjoying Ginger’s signature blend of functionality, smart design, and efficient service.

Known as the commercial capital of Gujarat, Ahmedabad is home to thriving industries, leading educational institutions, major global events, and iconic architectural landmarks. With this new opening, IHCL continues to strengthen its presence in the city, aligning with its growing demand for modern and reliable hospitality experiences.


Lemon Tree Hotels Launches Lemon Tree Suites in Gurugram, Its Eleventh Property in Haryana

Lemon Tree Hotels Launches Lemon Tree Suites in Gurugram, Its Eleventh Property in Haryana

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 15, 2025

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited has announced the launch of Lemon Tree Suites, Gurugram, marking its latest managed property and the brand’s eleventh hotel in Haryana. This opening further strengthens the group’s growing presence in northern India and reinforces its position in the state, where it now has ten operational properties.

Located in Gurugram, a prominent city in Haryana and part of India’s National Capital Region, the hotel sits within one of the country’s major financial and industrial hubs. Often referred to as the Millennium City, Gurugram is known for its modern infrastructure, corporate offices, high-rise developments, and expansive retail spaces, making it a preferred destination for both business and leisure travellers.

Lemon Tree Suites, Gurugram features a total inventory of 246 well-appointed rooms and suites. In the first phase of operations, 151 rooms have opened, with the remaining rooms scheduled to be launched in the second phase. The hotel’s contemporary interiors and thoughtfully designed spaces create a stylish yet comfortable ambience for guests.

Guests can enjoy a range of dining and leisure options at the property, including Citrus Café, the hotel’s all-day multi-cuisine restaurant, and Slounge, a relaxed recreation bar. The hotel also offers several wellness and recreational facilities such as Fresco, the rejuvenating spa, a fully equipped fitness centre, Refresh, a dedicated recreation room, and a swimming pool designed to offer a refreshing escape.

Commenting on the launch, Vishvapreet Singh Cheema, President, Lemon Tree Hotels, said, “With the opening of Lemon Tree Suites, Gurugram, we are delighted to strengthen our presence in the city, which already has eight hotels, including the first one from the brand at Udyog Vihar. Located in a key business hub, this hotel is perfectly suited for both corporate and leisure travellers seeking comfort, convenience, and an elevated stay experience.”

With its blend of modern design, comprehensive facilities, and strategic location, Lemon Tree Suites, Gurugram is positioned to cater to travellers looking for a seamless and comfortable stay in one of NCR’s most dynamic cities.


Air India Enters Interline Partnership With Scoot to Expand Connectivity Across Asia and Australasia

Air India Enters Interline Partnership With Scoot to Expand Connectivity Across Asia and Australasia

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 15, 2025

Air India has announced a new unilateral interline partnership with Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, aimed at significantly enhancing international connectivity for Indian travellers. The partnership strengthens Air India’s reach across Southeast Asia, North Asia, and Australia via Singapore, allowing guests to seamlessly access most of Scoot’s extensive network spanning over 70 destinations across 18 countries.

Through this collaboration, Air India’s extended international network now includes several destinations that were previously not covered under its existing partnerships. These newly accessible locations include Macau SAR in China; Padang and Labuan Bajo in Indonesia; Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Langkawi, Ipoh, Kuantan, Miri, Sibu, Malacca, and Kota Bharu in Malaysia; Davao and Iloilo City in the Philippines; Koh Samui, Chiang Rai, and Chiang Mai in Thailand; and Nha Trang and Phu Quoc in Vietnam.

Air India guests can travel non-stop from Delhi, Mumbai, or Chennai to Singapore and continue their onward journeys on Scoot flights to these destinations, along with several other points across Scoot’s network. To improve passenger convenience, both airlines have implemented Inter-Airline Through Check-In, enabling guests travelling on a single ticket to receive boarding passes for both Air India and Scoot flights at their point of origin. This also allows passengers to check in their baggage through to their final destination, subject to applicable local laws and regulations, ensuring a smoother transfer experience at Singapore Changi Airport.

Commenting on the partnership, Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer, Air India, said, “Asia Pacific remains the world’s fastest-growing region for aviation, with intra-regional air travel demand surging at significant rates. Our new interline partnership with Scoot taps into that momentum, meeting the rising Indian traveller appetite for seamless access to far-flung corners of the continent - from Malaysia’s rainforests to Vietnam’s beaches and Indonesia’s emerging cities.”

Calvin Chan, Chief Commercial Officer, Scoot, said, “This partnership marks an important step in broadening travel options for customers in India to discover unique destinations across Scoot’s extensive network via Singapore. We look forward to welcoming Air India customers onboard and connecting them to new experiences with Scoot.”

Air India currently operates 49 weekly flights between India and Singapore, including thrice-daily services from Delhi, twice-daily flights from Mumbai, and twice-daily flights from Chennai. In addition to this new interline agreement, Air India and Singapore Airlines continue to be codeshare partners, offering seamless connectivity to over 60 destinations worldwide for their shared customers.

The interline itineraries under this partnership will be progressively made available across Air India’s official booking channels, including its website, mobile applications, and through travel agents worldwide.

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