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 Expands Presence in Jammu & Kashmir with a New Gateway Resort in Patnitop

IHCL Expands Presence in Jammu & Kashmir with a New Gateway Resort in Patnitop

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 28, 2025

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced the signing of a new hotel under its Gateway brand in Patnitop, Jammu & Kashmir. This is a conversion project with future plans for expansion.

Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said, “Patnitop is a hidden gem in Jammu & Kashmir, offering travellers a quick winter escape. With the largest room inventory in the destination, this Gateway resort will cater to the growing demand from Punjab, Delhi NCR and Jammu. Serving as a gateway to the Himalayas, this signing aligns with our strategy to expand the brand in such leisure markets. We are delighted to partner with FIL Industries Private Limited for this project.”

Located amidst serene natural landscapes, the 78-key Gateway Patnitop, Jammu & Kashmir will offer guests an immersive experience of the region’s beauty. The resort will include an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant and a bar. Guests can enjoy two swimming pools, including a heated pool, along with a modern fitness centre and treatment rooms. For social and corporate events, the resort also provides a spacious banquet hall covering over 4,000 sq. ft.

Mr. Owais Altaf Syed, Director, FIL Industries Private Limited, added, “We are happy to collaborate with IHCL to bring the Gateway brand to Patnitop. This partnership with IHCL marks a significant milestone in enhancing the region’s hospitality landscape.”

Patnitop is a peaceful hill station surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped peaks. Travellers can enjoy adventure activities such as paragliding, trekking and skiing or explore attractions like Natha Top and Billo Ki Powri. With this signing, IHCL now has 12 hotels in Jammu & Kashmir, including 6 under development.

About the Owning Company

FIL Industries Private Limited is a diversified enterprise operating across agriculture, food and beverage, travel, hospitality and health sectors. Its portfolio includes agri-input solutions, natural fruit concentrates, functional drinks, beverages, packaged drinking water, post-harvest advisory services, storage solutions and sustainable mobility through aerial ropeways and tourism infrastructure.
In his role as Director, Mr. Owais Altaf Syed oversees ropeway management and hospitality. The company has been awarded major ropeway projects including the Dehradun–Mussoorie Ropeway and the Yamunotri Ropeway Project.


Frill Hospitality: A Renowned Name in Premium Hotel Toiletries and Amenities

Frill Hospitality: A Renowned Name in Premium Hotel Toiletries and Amenities

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 26, 2025

In the world of luxury hospitality, it's often the finest details that create unforgettable guest experiences. Frill Hospitality has firmly established itself as a trusted leader in the industry, delivering premium hotel toiletries and amenities that blend exquisite fragrances, thoughtful designs, and superior quality. With a state-of-the-art manufacturing unit in Gurugram, India, Frill produces everything under strict GMP standards, ensuring paraben-free, 100% vegan, and phthalate-free formulations crafted with the finest ingredients.

Recently honored as the Most Trusted Brand in Hotel Toiletries at the India Hotel & Homestay Summit & Awards 2025, Frill continues to set the benchmark for excellence in guest-centric innovation.

Signature Collections: Where IFRA-certified Fragrance Meets Luxury

Frill Hospitality offers a stunning range of premium toiletries across three captivating brand lines, each designed to transform ordinary bathroom routines into spa-like rituals:

  • Forestra – We built it for hotels that want to deliver a truly premium, nature-inspired experience. With its elegant fragrance blend of, Bergamot, Geranium & Blond Woods, Forestra brings a boutique luxury feel to every room. The texture is rich, the packaging is sophisticated, and the performance is exceptional, making it the preferred choice for upscale resorts and modern boutique properties. 

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  • Sea BreezeSea Breeze is designed for hotels that want premium quality at smart pricing. With its clean, refreshing fragrance of Sea Salt & Lavender and high-performance formulation, Sea Breeze delivers a consistent guest experience every time. The packaging is modern, the texture feels luxurious, and the cost makes it a clear winner for high-rotation rooms. Perfect for 3- to 5-star properties looking for reliability without compromising quality. 

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  • Isvara Naturals – Our modern Ayurvedic formulations, premium textures, and the signature Soul & Vanilla fragrance create an unforgettable guest experience. Designed for luxury and boutique properties, Isvara offers high-quality, conscious amenities that elevate your brand image instantly.Every product boasts amazing, long-lasting fragrances and sophisticated packaging that seamlessly complements upscale hotel branding.

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Innovative & Sustainable Packaging for Dry Amenities

Frill offers exceptional versatility in presentation, especially for dry amenities. Options include eco-friendly kraft boxes and pouches, butter paper pouches, laminated boxes, flow-wrap sachets, and more. These sustainable choices not only reduce environmental impact but also allow hotels to customize packaging that reflects their unique identity while maintaining premium aesthetics.

The White Thread - Premium Hotel Slippers: Comfort Meets Style

Beyond toiletries, Frill manufactures high-quality hotel slippers with Frill detailing in a variety of premium materials:

  • Soft fleece for cozy warmth
  • Plush fur for indulgent comfort
  • Natural jute for an eco-friendly, textured option

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These slippers provide the perfect finishing touch to any in-room experience.

Elevate Your Guest Experience with Frill

Whether you're a boutique hotel, luxury resort, or chain property, Frill Hospitality delivers complete in-room solutions that impress guests and strengthen brand loyalty. Their commitment to quality, sustainability, and customization has made them a preferred partner for hospitality businesses across India and beyond.

Ready to experience the difference?

Please visit the official website: www.frillhospitality.com.  For more information, samples, or to place orders, write to info@frillhospitality.com


‘Whispers of the Rainforest’ Art Camp Celebrates Nature and Creativity in Wayanad

‘Whispers of the Rainforest’ Art Camp Celebrates Nature and Creativity in Wayanad

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 26, 2025

CGH Earth, one of India’s leading boutique hospitality brands, recently organised a 15-day art camp titled “Whispers of the Rainforest,” reflecting its ongoing commitment to responsible tourism and the natural heritage of Wayanad. The camp, curated by Sathyapal, was held at Wayanad Wild, the brand’s forest lodge in Lakkidi. From September 10 to 25, twelve senior artists from different parts of Kerala came together to create artworks inspired by the region’s rich rainforest landscape.

David Raju, Lodge Manager at Wayanad Wild - CGH Earth, said, “We are situated within a dense forest belt of the Western Ghats, one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. Hosting the artists’ camp here was special because these artists saw what we see daily: the silent intelligence of nature. They translated this into twenty-nine remarkable artworks!”

The artworks created during the camp are now displayed at the David Hall Art Gallery in Fort Kochi. The exhibition stands as a vibrant connection between art, nature, and sustainability, echoing CGH Earth’s belief that hospitality extends beyond comfort and supports both the community and the environment.

The participating artists include Ajayakumar, Ajit Kumar G, Baijudev, Basil Baby, Biji Bhaskar, Shobharaj KR, Sindhu Divakaran, Sivadasan K.C, Sriya K.R, Sujith Navam, Sunil Rocky V.G, and V.B Venu. Each artist originally planned to create two artworks, but some were so moved by the surroundings that they produced additional pieces.

Curator Satyapal added, “Anyone visiting this place will have a profound experience, or in fact a realisation that this earth does not belong to humans alone. We must explore nature, learn about the flora and fauna flourishing in these deep forests, and the people who live there.”

Wayanad Wild, spread across twelve acres of rewilded land, recreates a native rainforest setting where mist-covered canopies, the sounds of cicadas, and exceptional biodiversity offer visitors meaningful experiences rooted in nature. Every part of the lodge is designed to ensure that sustainable practices are a part of daily operations.

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