Celebrate Holi the Creamiest Way with Frozen Fun’s Shrikhand Special Gelato

As the colours of Holi begin to fill the air this March, Frozen Fun is adding a delicious new shade to the celebrations. Introducing Shrikhand, a festive, limited-edition gelato that doubles up as the brand’s Holi Special and March Flavour of the Month. 

Available across all Frozen Fun stores starting 26th February, this special flavour brings together nostalgia, tradition, and indulgence in every scoop. 

Inspired by the tangy richness of classic Indian shrikhand, this silky gelato reimagines the beloved festive dessert with a contemporary twist. Crafted to mirror the smooth, creamy texture of Greek yoghurt and infused with the signature sweet-tangy notes that make shrikhand a household favourite, the gelato is finished with a generous topping of nuts for added crunch and indulgence. Familiar yet refreshing, comforting yet celebratory, the Shrikhand gelato captures the spirit of Holi in a way that feels both rooted and modern. 

Perfect for post-celebration indulgence, festive gifting, or simply treating yourself to a seasonal classic in a new avatar, this limited-edition flavour promises to be a crowd favourite through the month of March. 

Availability: 26th February to 31st March, 2026.. 

Where: All Frozen Fun stores 

This Holi, celebrate with a scoop that tastes like tradition, only cooler.

Gurgaon Welcomes a New Luxury Wellness Address with 7 Ocean Fitness & Wellness Club

7 Ocean Fitness & Wellness Club opens in Gurgaon this February as a new destination for holistic wellness, bringing together fitness, recovery, and mindful living within a refined, luxury-led environment. Designed as a one-stop space for modern wellbeing, the club moves beyond the traditional gym format to offer a more considered experience - one shaped by community, intention, and elevated design.

Founded in 2022, 7 Ocean Fitness & Wellness Club was created for individuals who view fitness as a lifestyle rather than a routine. Conceived as a refined wellness destination, the club delivers a lush, immersive environment designed to encourage consistency, discipline, and long-term commitment to health.

The vision for the club belongs to Founder Mr. Ajeet Singh, a lifelong fitness enthusiast who recognised a shift in modern lifestyles — where luxury and experiential spaces increasingly influence everyday choices, while fitness often remains deprioritised. Believing that ambience inspires action, he envisioned a space that seamlessly blends world-class fitness with luxury aesthetics: a place people enjoy visiting, feel inspired by, and naturally return to, transforming fitness from an obligation into an experience.

The club has been conceived as an exclusive sanctuary for a close-knit community of like-minded individuals who view wellness as a shared lifestyle rather than an individual pursuit. Every element of the space has been thoughtfully curated to support a balanced approach to fitness and wellbeing, allowing members to pursue their personal journeys in an environment crafted with precision and care. Gurgaon was selected for its evolving lifestyle culture and infrastructure that supports a seamless, all-under-one-roof experience, bringing together fitness, wellness, café, parking, and essential amenities within a single destination.

Spanning 20,000 sq. ft., the club is organised around two complementary pillars - fitness and wellness, each offering a unique yet interconnected experience. One section is energised by movement, intensity, and motivation, while the other is designed for calm, restoration, and mindful recovery. This deliberate zoning allows members to move effortlessly between training and recovery, creating a natural rhythm that supports both performance and balance.

The fitness experience is powered by Technogym, the globally recognised Italian brand known for its technologically advanced equipment and its ‘Wellness Lifestyle’ philosophy. The club features a connected ecosystem of smart machines, digital platforms, and apps, supporting immersive, guided workouts across strength training, cardio, functional training, and a dedicated spinning studio equipped with Technogym bikes. BioStrength machines guide movement safely and efficiently, supporting full-range motion aligned with correct biomechanics and making training effective across different fitness levels.

Personalisation is supported through the Technogym Body Composition Analyzer, an advanced AI-driven assessment tool that delivers a holistic body check in seconds. The system analyses strength, posture, mobility, metabolism, cognition, and wellness age, and integrates with the Technogym App to enable real-time adjustments to individual training programmes.

The club integrates physical fitness with mental wellbeing, mindfulness, and recovery through a wide range of offerings. Group classes, including Dance, CrossFit, Kickboxing, Sculpt, and more, encourage motivation and community engagement, while yoga flow sessions and breath-focused practices support mental clarity and stress reduction. Recovery facilities include infrared red light therapy saunas, rock salt hammam steam rooms, and chilled showers designed to reduce inflammation and support physical rejuvenation.

Each member begins with a comprehensive individual assessment conducted by certified trainers, focusing on fitness levels, goals, and specific body requirements. Based on these insights, personalised programmes are created that integrate training, nutrition, and recovery for balanced and sustainable results. All trainers hold globally recognised certifications in exercise science, nutrition, and physical therapy, with equal emphasis placed on personalised service, motivation, and member-centric care.

Café 7 serves as the club’s in-house wellness café and lounge, designed as a calm, inviting space where nutrition and lifestyle come together. The café extends the wellness journey beyond training and recovery, reinforcing the idea that fitness, nutrition, and mindset function best as part of everyday life rather than isolated routines.

7 Ocean Fitness & Wellness Club is exclusively accessible to members and will operate from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Monday through Saturday, and from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Sundays. 

Membership enquiries can be directed to +91 76007-00002.

Rang, Ras aur Riwaaz! Celebrate Holi with a Festive Brunch at Boulevard, The Orchid Hotel Mumbai

Celebrate the festival of colours with a vibrant culinary experience as The Orchid Hotel Mumbai at Boulevard brings the spirit of Holi alive with a specially curated festive brunch. Known for its indulgent spreads and warm hospitality, the hotel is adding a celebratory twist to its regular brunch with an array of traditional Holi sweets, festive delicacies, and signature favourites that capture the essence of the season. 

Their chefs have handpicked a delightful spread of authentic Indian sweets and delicacies to make your celebrations extra special. Savour the rich, aromatic Thandai, melt-in-the-mouth Boondi Ladoo, and crispy, syrup-soaked Ghevar topped with creamy rabdi. Indulge in a variety of festive delights like Gujiyas, Malpua, and Puran Poli, each bursting with authentic flavours that truly embody the essence of Holi.

From nostalgic festive flavours to lavish main course selections and decadent desserts, the experience promises to be a wholesome celebration for families, friends, and food lovers looking to mark the occasion in style. Whether you are planning a relaxed afternoon with loved ones or a festive get-together, this Holi brunch offers the perfect blend of colours, flavours, and cheerful indulgence.

Details:

• When: March 1st and March 3rd, 2026 | 12:00 noon - 4 pm 

• Where: Boulevard, The Orchid Hotel, Mumbai

• Cost: ₹3099++ per person (Food & Soft Beverages)
            ₹3999++ per person (Unlimited Food with IMFL Liquor)

• Contact: +91 8655988697

Top 5 destinations in Delhi for the ultimate Holi food experience

Delhi is filled with colourful sights, sound and smell during Holi! The city truly represents an amazing culinary melting pot and has so many different types of festival foods celebrating cooking traditions from all over India including traditional gujiya and thandai-style sweets and drinks, and many more indulgent regional delicacies. You’ll want to celebrate your colour-filled day with a fantastic meal after spending time outside in the spring sun. Check these out: Here are the five best places in Delhi for the best Holi food experience!

Haldiram’s:  Haldiram's 2026 theme "Holi Ab Hui Na: Iconic Gulal Aur Gujiya Jodi" - is the ultimate food experience for Holi in Delhi. The celebration is about togetherness and indulgence with a variety of curated products & hampers, as well as their signature GUJIYA line which includes the Kesar Gujiya (flavoured with saffron), and the Coconut Dry Fruit Gujiya (filled with coconut and dry fruit). All of the Gujiya products feature premium ingredients and traditional methods of preparation in order to provide the true Holi experience through the use of vibrant colours and nostalgic images. When served with chilled Thandai, this will complete your Holi experience.

Location: Haldiram's Restaurant Outlets Across North Delhi 

Chaina Ram Sindhi Confectioners: Chaina Ram Sindhi Halawai, an essential destination for indulging in generous quantities of sweets during the Holi festival is located in Delhi. Having been established in 1901, this legendary sweet maker has developed their expertise to create traditional mithai using ghee only. One of their most popular items is the Karachi Halwa, which has a chewy texture and glossy finish with bits of dry fruit that have made it a holiday favourite for many years. All the items they create are Balu Shahi, Doda Barfi, Pateesa, Motipak, and large laddoos, which will put you into an ecstatic mood. Be sure to be first in line to sample one of their hearty breakfasts of Halwa-Puri-Aloo; and don't forget to take home some Sindhi Gheyar, Mitha Samosa, or Gujiya to enjoy while celebrating Holi.

Location: 6499, Katra Bariyan, Fatehpuri, Chandni Chowk, Delhi

Bikanervala: Bikanervala is the place in Delhi to search out a fabulous Holi feast! This well-known Indian sweets shop assembles colourful Holi baskets of traditional sweetmeats, including gujia, aromatic thandai and different kinds of sweets, and can usually include festive gulal also. Their most popular Holi baskets are the Gujia Thal, Saffron Splash, and Thandai Tradition that make wonderful gifts for family and friends. In addition to the Holi baskets, their display cases are filled with traditional laddoos, barfis, rasgullas, savoury namkeens, and bhaji boxes which can be used for entertaining at home or simply to spoil yourself during the holiday!

Location: Rajiv Gandhi Handicraft Bhawan, Baba Kharak Singh Rd, opposite Hanuman Mandir, New Delhi, Delhi 110001

Giani’s Di Hatti: Every Holi food trail in the capital city of Delhi is incomplete without visiting Giani’s Di Hatti (Chandni Chowk), an institution that has served up some of the best traditional North Indian sweets for decades. After your vibrant colour explosion, enjoy a refreshing bowl of their world-famous Rabri Falooda or a cold glass of sweet Badam Milk. All of these delectable dishes are extremely rich, creamy, nostalgic and festive and represent the old-world charm that goes along with the celebration of Holi in our nation’s capital.

Location: Bagh Deewar, Katra Ghel, Fatehpuri, Chandni Chowk, Delhi, 110006

OM sweets: Om's Sweets has long been a leading supplier of sweet dishes for the festival of Holi. This year an exceptional selection is available for you, featuring traditional favourites such as crunchy coconut gujiya, golden jalebi right from the frying pan and a variety of colourful namkeen mixtures. The drinkable, refreshing, and flavourful syrup selected by Om's will give you everything you need to share the colours of the festival with your family and friends. All of our products are sure to bring out the spirit of Holi through their combination of old-fashioned and new flavours. For ease and completeness, you can purchase all of Om's sweets in a variety of packaged container options, making it easy for you to bring the colours, sweetness, and joy of this year's festival into your house.

Location: GL - 23, SHAHEED BHAGAT SINGH MARG, Jail Rd, Hari Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi 

Make your Holi celebrations in Delhi complete with out-of-this-world culinary experiences! You'll find a variety of sweet treats and regional dishes from around the country that will bring together all the delightful tastes of your favourite festival. 

Cricket Season Fuels Tourism Beyond Metros, With Searches More Than Doubling in Key Host Cities

India, February 2026 – India’s cricket season is sparking a surge in domestic travel, with Airbnb data revealing significant year-on-year growth in searches and bookings across match-hosting cities. Interestingly, the demand is shifting beyond traditional metro hubs, highlighting how marquee tournaments are reshaping the country’s tourism map.

Demand Shifts Beyond Metros

Between February and May, as major tournaments unfold, travel demand is dispersing into emerging cricket centres such as Ranchi, Thiruvananthapuram, Jaipur, and Lucknow. These cities are witnessing remarkable spikes in searches:

• Ranchi: nearly 120% increase year-on-year

• Thiruvananthapuram: over 110% growth

• Jaipur: more than 70% increase

• Lucknow: over 60% increase

This trend underscores how high-profile fixtures are accelerating travel into tier-2 locations, broadening the geographic spread of visitor demand beyond India’s traditional gateway cities.

Match-Day Spikes Drive Travel

The impact of marquee fixtures is even more pronounced. Searches for stays in Colombo during the India vs Pakistan clash (14–17 February 2026) surged by 325%, while bookings also rose significantly. Similarly, ahead of the cricket world cup final (7–10 March 2026), Ahmedabad recorded a 170% increase in searches, cementing its status as a marquee cricket destination.

Match Day = Travel Getaway

Cricket is no longer just a living-room experience—it has evolved into a travel phenomenon, especially among Gen Z. According to Airbnb’s Experience-Led Travel Insights survey, nearly 60% of India’s Gen Z plan to travel to attend live matches in 2026, with 70% preferring to go with friends or family. Importantly, these trips often extend beyond match days, with 53% of travelers staying longer to explore local culture, cuisine, and neighborhoods. The median trip length for a cricket getaway is now 3–4 days.

Search trends reflect this shift toward group and family-friendly travel. For example:

• In Ahmedabad, searches for entire homes nearly doubled compared to private rooms.

• Demand for homes with two or more bedrooms grew sharply in Ahmedabad (50% increase), Kangra (90% increase), and Visakhapatnam (75% increase).

A Cultural Shift in Travel

Amanpreet Singh Bajaj, Airbnb’s Country Head for India and Southeast Asia, noted:
“Cricket has long united the country in spirit. What we’re seeing now is that same energy translating into travel, with fans building meaningful trips around the game. Increasingly, these moments go beyond the stadium—people are extending their stays, travelling with friends and family, and exploring destinations more deeply.”

As India’s tourism ecosystem evolves, cricket-led travel is extending beyond metros, supporting local hospitality ecosystems and contributing to more geographically distributed tourism demand.

Smoke House Café Opens at Sky City Mall, Borivali, A Familiar Favourite in a New Form

Mumbai, February 2026: Impresario Entertainment & Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. has announced the launch of Smoke House Café at Sky City Mall, Borivali, marking a new chapter for the 15-year legacy of Smoke House Deli. The new format builds on the brand’s strong foundation while introducing a more contemporary café expression shaped for today’s neighbourhood dining culture. Carrying forward the essence of Smoke House Deli, the café presents a more refined, cleaner, calmer space and shaped for the way people gather today.

Smoke House Café is globally inspired by flavours, cultures, and the journey of ingredients across borders, where a single ingredient can tell a different story in every kitchen. Guided by the philosophy of From The World, To You, the café looks beyond geography to what the world is eating, craving, and talking about, drawing from new ingredients, techniques, and fresh combinations. These global influences are translated thoughtfully into dishes that feel familiar, delicious, and deeply satisfying, creating an experience designed for everyday dining, unhurried conversations, and repeat visits from the neighbourhood it serves.

Riyaaz Amlani, Founder and Managing Director, Impresario Entertainment and Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., said, “With Smoke House Café, we are introducing a format that feels current, intentional and deeply rooted in hospitality. It is about giving our guests something new without losing the emotional connection they have always had with the brand. This is the future of Smoke House, more contemporary, more neighbourhood driven, and built for everyday belonging.”

A Space That Fits Right Into Borivali

Set within Sky City Mall, Smoke House Café is designed as a neighbourhood café you can return to for a long lunch that turns into evening, a quick mid-week bite, an easy family meal, or an unhurried catch up. Borivali is a locality that values community and familiarity, and the café has been shaped with that spirit at its core.

The interiors are contemporary in expression, drawing subtle inspiration from the lush greens and untamed beauty of Sanjay Gandhi National Park, one of Borivali’s most iconic landmarks. Earthy textures, organic forms and muted tones create a quiet interplay between nature and modern living. The space feels rooted without being rustic, refined without being distant. The result is a café that feels grounded, welcoming and deeply connected to its surroundings, an urban space with a strong and authentic sense of place.

Commenting on the launch, Ms. Tanu Prasad, CEO Malls, Oberoi Realty said, We are pleased to welcome Smoke House Café and are confident that its presence will not only drive strong footfall but also contribute meaningfully to the growing culture of experiential dining across the western suburbs. At Sky City Mall, our focus has always been on creating destinations that go beyond shopping to become vibrant social hubs for families and young professionals alike. As a brand that has consistently resonated with discerning urban consumers, its refreshed and contemporary format aligns seamlessly with our vision of offering thoughtfully curated experiences that blend quality with comfort. 

Food and Drink at Smoke House Café

At Smoke House Café, the menu remains rooted in comfort, expressed through a lighter café forward rhythm and a stronger, focused commitment to meaningful vegetarian options. Drawing from cuisines across continents, the offering is thoughtful in execution and designed for the way people dine today, with shared plates, breakfast favourites, fresh pastas and pizzas, grills, and desserts that travel as well as one’s tastebuds do. The structure is clearer, making it easy to navigate across small plates, salads, breads, pizzas, pastas and mains, while still allowing guests to shape their experience depending on the occasion.

Guests can look forward to signature café plates such as the Signature Guacamole and Crispy Chilli Cheese that bring familiar comfort to the table. The Raw Papaya, Tender Coconut and Grilled Tofu Salad reflects the café’s fresh and thoughtful vegetarian direction, while the SHC Avocado Toast anchors the all day café mood. The Creamed Spinach, Feta, Tomato and Olive Pizza and the Ricotta and Greens Double Stuffed Ravioli highlight the brand’s European comfort legacy, and the Tofu and Baby Corn Curry with Jasmine Rice brings depth and warmth to the mains selection. Together, these dishes reflect a philosophy that balances familiarity with refinement, and comfort with clarity.

Alongside the food, the café also introduces a selection of zero proof sips that feel fresh and considered, designed for easy afternoons, light evenings and everyday moments. Guests can explore options such as the Cranberry Cold Brew, P.K Lemonade, Thai Spiced Chai, and the Lychee and Hibiscus Brew, each crafted to complement the café’s relaxed, all day rhythm.

Kids’ Menu and Why It Matters

Smoke House Café is designed to feel welcoming across generations and that includes families. The café features a kids’ menu that has been structured thoughtfully, not as an afterthought. It is built to make dining out feel easier for parents and genuinely enjoyable for younger guests, ensuring that everyone at the table finds their perfect dish and portion. In a neighbourhood like Borivali, where families form a strong part of the dining community, this becomes an important part of how the café shows up.

Vinod Shetty, Operations Head, Smoke House Café, said, “With Smoke House Café, we wanted to build something that feels natural to the neighbourhood. Borivali has a strong family culture, but it is also evolving and aspirational. The menu reflects that balance. We have strengthened our vegetarian offerings, clarified the structure, and introduced a dedicated kids’ section so that the experience feels complete. It is about creating a café that people can keep coming back to, across occasions and across life stages.”

Smoke House Café, Borivali is the next chapter for the brand. A place that still feels like a return. Familiar, easy and warm. A café you step into once and then keep coming back to because it simply fits.

Smoke House Café, Borivali is now open

Ground Floor, Sky City Mall, G.38, Dattapada Rd, Magathane, Borivali East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400066. Operational Hours: 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM

Beyond the Table: How Apero by Malvika Mulchandani Is Shaping Mumbai’s New Food Culture

Mumbai, February 25th, 2026: Food today is no longer just about what’s served, it’s about how it feels. From intimate gatherings to everyday indulgences, consumers are seeking experiences that are personal, thoughtful, and visually compelling. At the forefront of this shift is Apero, the Mumbai-based food and experience brand founded by Malvika Mulchandani, redefining how the city dines, hosts, and connects.

What began as Malvika Mulchandani’s instinctive love for bringing people together has grown into Apero, now recognised as one of Mumbai’s leading experiential catering studios. Menus span global influences, from Indian and Southeast Asian to Mexican and Italian cuisines, while signature bakes, cheese, confectionery, and personalised hampers add depth to the experience. The brand offers end-to-end catering, tailored event concepts, gourmet food deliveries spanning Indian and global cuisines, artisanal cheese and charcuterie, signature dips, handcrafted bakery creations, and thoughtfully curated corporate and personal gifting. Whether it is a wedding, a corporate event, an intimate dinner at home, or a thoughtfully assembled hamper, every Apero experience is rooted in warmth, abundance, and attention to detail.

Founded on a deep appreciation for hosting and visual detail, Apero has grown into one of the city’s most recognised experiential food studios. While the brand is widely known for its immersive, large-format celebrations and brand-led gatherings, its offerings extend seamlessly into everyday indulgence. From in-house bakery creations and artisanal cheeses to signature dips, curated platters, gourmet deliveries, and bespoke gifting, Apero has built a versatile portfolio designed to fit modern lifestyles.

“What people are looking for today isn’t just service, they’re looking for intention,” says Malvika Mulchandani, Founder of Apero. “Whether someone is hosting fifty guests or ordering a cheese platter for a quiet evening, the experience should feel considered and beautifully put together.”

Apero has become a trusted partner for private celebrations, weddings, corporate gatherings, and luxury brand events, working with an impressive roster that includes Dior, Excel Entertainment, Estee Lauder, Westside, Nykaa, Moroccan Oil, Mochi, Bobbi Brown, Tira, Architectural Digest, Clinique, Gaurav Gupta, Bank of America, The Ordinary, Ekaya Banaras, Kama Ayurveda, Forest Essentials, Gazal Gupta, Jo Malone, and KGL.

As dining culture continues to evolve, Apero reflects a broader shift, where food is no longer transactional, but experiential; no longer limited to large occasions, but woven into everyday hosting and connection. Because today, Apero is not just about catering, it is about creating food-led experiences, whether across a grand table or delivered to your doorstep.

The Mochi Revolution Comes to India: CK Israni Group Announces MOISHI Launch

The UAE's Most Celebrated Japanese Confectionary Brand MOISHI Makes Its Indian Debut with CK Israni Group in a Category-First Move

India’s culinary landscape is about to be hit with something it has never seen before. CK Israni Group,one of India’s most diversified and forward-thinking conglomerates, is thrilled to announce the expansion of its Lifestyle segment with the landmark introduction of MOISHI, UAE’s cult-favourite Japanese confectionary brand, to the Indian market.With this move, the CK Israni Group is not simply introducing a new dessert brand, it is establishing and leading an entirely new category within India’s organised food and beverage market.

MOISHI is not just a dessert brand, it is a category leader in handcrafted mochi ice cream. Often viewed as a cultural phenomenon and a sensory experience that has taken Dubai and the UAE by storm, MOISHI has amassed a fanatical following across generations and luxury food lovers worldwide. Its India debut represents not just a brand launch, but the formal entry of premium mochi ice cream as an organised retail segment within the country’s evolving dessert landscape.

First Time in India

Mochi ice cream as a premium, branded experience has never existed in India at this level. MOISHI’s arrival marks a genuine first—a category-defining moment for Indian food culture. CK Israni Group, known for identifying and nurturing world-class lifestyle brands, recognised that India’s increasingly sophisticated, globally-aware consumer—especially the youth—was ready for something genuinely new.

“India’s lifestyle and F&B sector is at an inflection point,” said Chandni Nath Israni, Co-Founder of CK Israni Group. “Over the past decade, we have seen a decisive shift in consumer behaviour. Urban audiences are more travelled, more informed and far more receptive to globally benchmarked formats. The market is no longer just experimenting with international concepts,it is ready to institutionalize them. MOISHI allows us to enter India with a proven category leader and build the premium mochi ice cream segment in a structured, scalable manner. This is not about following a trend. It is about recognising a ripe market opportunity and moving early with conviction.”

What is MOISHI? The Bite You Didn’t Know You Needed.

Born at the intersection of Japanese craftsmanship, Lebanese heritage, and Dubai’s pioneering energy, MOISHI creates handcrafted mochi ice cream — a centuries-old Japanese tradition, reimagined for the modern world. Think pillowy-soft glutinous rice cake dough, meticulously wrapped around premium Italian-grade ice cream, available in bold, unexpected flavor combinations that are as picture-worthy as they are indulgent. Every MOISHI piece is a small, perfectly formed moment of joy, handcrafted using

Partially imported Japanese ingredients fused with locally-sourced elements, ensuring that every bite is a work of art. No shortcuts. No compromises. Just craft.

Why MOISHI Hits Different.

The MOISHI difference lies in what it stands for:

• Japanese-Inspired Fusion Craftsmanship: Authentic mocha dough tradition meets premium icecream in unexpected, boundary-pushing flavour combinations. This is not imitation — this is innovation.

• Each mochi is individually handcrafted: Each mocha is individually crafted with an obsessive attention to detail, using ingredients partially sourced from Japan. Mass production has no place here.

• A Visual and Sensory Spectacle: MOISHI products are designed to stop scrolls. The vibrant colours, the soft textures, the perfect bite—this is the ice cream that was made to be seen, shared, and savoured.

• Culture in Every Bite: MOISHI is the product of three cultures colliding: Lebanese spirit,Japanese precision, and Dubai’s fearlessness.

• Format-Led Innovation: Rather than adapting existing ice cream in to a new shape,MOISHI’score expertise lies in the mochi format itself. Texture, temperature balance and flavour construction are central to the product experience.

• Gift-Worthy.Moment-Making:Whether it’s a curated gift box or a personal indulgence, MOISHI transforms ordinary occasions into unforgettable memories — perfectly aligned with India’s gift culture.

CK Israni Group: Setting the Benchmark

The launch further strengthens CK Israni Group’s position as a leading curator of premium global brands in India. Rather than competing within saturated segments, the Group has demonstrated a consistent strategy of introducing globally benchmarked concepts and building them into structured categories domestically.

With MOISHI, CK Israni Group is not following a trend. It is setting the standard for premium mocha ice cream in India and taking early leadership in a segment poised for rapid growth among young, globally aware consumers.

Launch locations and timelines will be announced shortly.

About CK Israni Group
CK Israni Group is a diversified, future-focused enterprise operating across infrastructure, lifestyle, entertainment, and social impact. Founded by Dr. Karan Israni and co-founded by Chandni Nath Israni, the Group is driven by a commitment to innovation, precision-led execution, and globally aligned standards. Through its core verticals, the organisation delivers technology-driven infrastructure, curates premium global lifestyle and hospitality brands, and develops culturally relevant creative ventures. With a strategic emphasis on design, sustainability, and consumer-centric experiences, CK Israni Group continues to build scalable, future-ready businesses that reflect evolving market and consumer landscapes.

Bastian Hospitality Unveils Mumbai’s First Beach Club in Juhu, Bringing Global Beach Culture to the City

Bastian Hospitality, helmed by Mr Ranjit Bindra, unveiled Mumbai’s first true beach club in Juhu, setting a new benchmark in experiential luxury. Introducing the culture of elevated, day-led indulgence to the city, the brand brings the indulgent spirit of Saint-Tropez beach culture to India’s evolving lifestyle landscape. 

Bastian Hospitality is guided by a philosophy of luxury that extends beyond food, focusing on delivering elevated experiences for its guests. This venture aims to redefine luxury leisure by blending elevated culinary offerings with beachfront entertainment, positioning Bastian as the city’s go-to beach lifestyle destination and a space that must be experienced to be fully appreciated. 

Talking about the launch, *Mr Ranjit Bindra, Founder and CEO of Bastian Hospitality*, said, “The beach club is a personal dream shaped by years of travelling and experiencing beach cultures around the world. For Mumbaikars, the beach has always been an integral part of the city’s fabric, but the city never had a destination that truly brought this experience alive.” He further added, “With Bastian Beach Club, we are spearheading a day-led entertainment format in a city known largely for nightlife, while also pushing Mumbai forward as a destination for tourism and beachside dining. Our vision is to move hospitality beyond evenings and create an all-day curated lifestyle by the shore, bringing together great food, music, and thoughtfully integrated wellness under one roof.” 

Designed by *Minal Chopra*, the space draws inspiration from European coastal aesthetics, combining influences from Ibiza, Mykonos and Saint-Tropez with a distinctly bold Bombay sensibility. The architecture embraces open layouts, natural light and sea-facing views to create a relaxed and luxurious environment that transitions from the calm daytime energy to high-spirited evenings. 

Guests can look forward to an immersive hospitality experience that seamlessly blends leisure, wellness, and indulgence. Envisioned as a versatile destination, the space lends itself with ease to family day outings and leisurely weekend and brunches with family and friends, complemented by curated experiential activities for kids and families. As the day unfolds, the destination transitions into golden-hour sunset seatings and elegant sundowners, followed by thoughtfully crafted evening parties and intimate social gatherings, making it a place inclusive to all. 

With the Beach Club, Bastian Hospitality evolves into a larger lifestyle experience format, moving beyond restaurants and nightlife to create a space where people can spend an entire day by the sea. Bringing a global beach club culture to Mumbai, the destination blends great food, relaxed leisure, wellness and lively evenings, all with the signature Bastian energy. 

As a brand, Bastian Hospitality envisions positioning India as a global tourism hub, inviting travellers from across the world to experience the country’s evolving hospitality landscape, while firmly establishing itself as a leader in destination hospitality, lifestyle-driven experiences, and future-forward hospitality formats. Bastian Hospitality’s diverse portfolio spans marquee brands such as Blondie, Ammakai, Riviera, and more.

Introducing Sweeney - Where Home Recipes Meet Modern Craft A Home for Thai & European Cuisine, Rediscovered & Reimagined

Born out of extensive research, return visits, and time spent in kitchens that rarely call themselves restaurants, Sweeney brings together home-style Thai and European cooking in a way that feels both deeply familiar and newly alive. This food is shaped by memory, repetition and care - recipes rediscovered from homes, preserved with respect, and reimagined for the table today.

At Sweeney, “home” is not a concept; it is the starting point. From Southern and Northern Thai households, where meals revolve around shared pots, rice, and instinctive balance, to Italian kitchens of nonnas, where food is cooked slowly, generously, and without performance, every dish begins with how food is truly lived with. The menu reflects months of immersion into domestic kitchens — not as nostalgia, but as living practice.

Sharing her vision, Malaika Arora says, “Sweeney is the taste of comfort - the flavours I return to wherever I am in the world. It’s a second home that feels warm, instinctive and lived-in — where you arrive hungry, stay longer than planned, and leave feeling quietly looked after.”

Dhaval Udeshi adds, “Sweeney was built through research and return — understanding how food is actually cooked at home, and how craft is learned at the bar. It preserves what deserves protection, while actively building the next generation of talent.”

The kitchen is rooted in domestic Thai traditions - bold, coconut-rich Southern flavours layered with turmeric and fermented pastes, alongside the gentler, herb-forward warmth of Northern Lanna cuisine. Complementing this is an intimate European narrative, beginning with Italian home cooking - olive-oil-rich preparations, slow-simmered sauces, handmade pastas - gently extended with subtle French refinement and Mexican warmth. The result is a menu of curries built for sharing, herb-laced grills, rice-led plates, slow-cooked meats, and pastas that comfort rather than perform - dishes that impress as a consequence, not an intention.

Chef Ravraj Singh Chandok shares, “The focus is on preservation and reinvention — carrying these home-style dishes forward with care, technique, and intention.”
If the kitchen looks to inheritance, the bar looks to the future. Designed as a women-led platform and exchange programme, the bar functions as an incubator for bartenders of tomorrow. Led by Beverage Director Fay Barretto, the drinks programme is anchored in modern classics, precision, balance, and discipline - where learning happens during service, under pressure, behind the counter. Each cycle, one drink is quietly entrusted to a bartender in becoming, held to the same uncompromising standard as the rest.

The space mirrors this philosophy — a slow reveal of sage green interiors, layered natural textures, warm shifting light, intimate dining pockets, and a seamless alfresco extension. It is calm yet alive, refined yet welcoming.Sweeney does not rush you. It offers consistency, quiet confidence, and food that tastes as it should.

The kitchen remembers.
The bar becomes.

Sweeney is where home cooking is honoured and craft is built for the future.

Beyond the Table: How Apero by Malvika Mulchandani Is Shaping Mumbai’s New Food Culture

Mumbai, February 2026: Food today is no longer just about what’s served, it’s about how it feels. From intimate gatherings to everyday indulgences, consumers are seeking experiences that are personal, thoughtful, and visually compelling. At the forefront of this shift is Apero, the Mumbai-based food and experience brand founded by Malvika Mulchandani, redefining how the city dines, hosts, and connects.

What began as Malvika Mulchandani’s instinctive love for bringing people together has grown into Apero, now recognised as one of Mumbai’s leading experiential catering studios. Menus span global influences, from Indian and Southeast Asian to Mexican and Italian cuisines, while signature bakes, cheese, confectionery, and personalised hampers add depth to the experience. The brand offers end-to-end catering, tailored event concepts, gourmet food deliveries spanning Indian and global cuisines, artisanal cheese and charcuterie, signature dips, handcrafted bakery creations, and thoughtfully curated corporate and personal gifting. Whether it is a wedding, a corporate event, an intimate dinner at home, or a thoughtfully assembled hamper, every Apero experience is rooted in warmth, abundance, and attention to detail.

Founded on a deep appreciation for hosting and visual detail, Apero has grown into one of the city’s most recognised experiential food studios. While the brand is widely known for its immersive, large-format celebrations and brand-led gatherings, its offerings extend seamlessly into everyday indulgence. From in-house bakery creations and artisanal cheeses to signature dips, curated platters, gourmet deliveries, and bespoke gifting, Apero has built a versatile portfolio designed to fit modern lifestyles.

“What people are looking for today isn’t just service, they’re looking for intention,” says Malvika Mulchandani, Founder of Apero. “Whether someone is hosting fifty guests or ordering a cheese platter for a quiet evening, the experience should feel considered and beautifully put together.”

Apero has become a trusted partner for private celebrations, weddings, corporate gatherings, and luxury brand events, working with an impressive roster that includes Dior, Excel Entertainment, Estee Lauder, Westside, Nykaa, Moroccan Oil, Mochi, Bobbi Brown, Tira, Architectural Digest, Clinique, Gaurav Gupta, Bank of America, The Ordinary, Ekaya Banaras, Kama Ayurveda, Forest Essentials, Gazal Gupta, Jo Malone, and KGL.

As dining culture continues to evolve, Apero reflects a broader shift, where food is no longer transactional, but experiential; no longer limited to large occasions, but woven into everyday hosting and connection. Because today, Apero is not just about catering, it is about creating food-led experiences, whether across a grand table or delivered to your doorstep.

Jaipur National University Sets Stage for India Book of Records – India’s Largest Millet Base Pizza

Jaipur National University is preparing to make history as its School of Hotel Management and Catering Technology attempts to set a record with India’s Largest Millet Base Pizza on 27th February 2026. The event, to be held at the SADTM JNU Campus, Admin Lawn, will showcase the nutritional benefits of millets while highlighting the creativity, teamwork, and culinary expertise of the university’s hospitality students.

The initiative is being guided by Hon’ble Chancellor Sandeep Bakshi, whose leadership continues to inspire innovative, practical learning. Under the dynamic direction of Dr. Sandip Tapkir, Director of the School of Hotel Management and Catering Technology, faculty and students are enthusiastically preparing for the mega event. The core culinary team includes Chef Jhinesh Rajoria, Chef Mandeep Singh, Chef Somy Gupta, Chef Anand Singh, and Chef Sanjay Saini, who are leading the planning and execution of this record-breaking attempt.

Supporting them is the event coordination team comprising Praveen Chaudhary, Garvit Bhardwaj, Rajkumar Badgurjar, Vikrant Meshram, Saket Dixit, and Shivam Sharma, ensuring smooth execution. The organizing team emphasized that the event is not only about setting a record but also about promoting sustainable food practices and encouraging students to think creatively on a grand scale.

The celebration is expected to witness enthusiastic participation from students, faculty members, and distinguished guests. With meticulous planning and collective effort, Jaipur National University is poised to achieve a remarkable milestone in culinary arts. Such initiatives reflect the university’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and holistic learning—blending tradition, nutrition, and professional skill development into one historic achievement.

Event Details:

• Date: 27th February 2026

• Time: 10:00 AM

• Venue: SADTM JNU Campus, Admin Lawn, New RTO Road

Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur Introduces AI-Powered Service Robots, Redefining Hospitality Innovation in Kolhapur

February 2026, Kolhapur: Sayaji Hotel Kolhapur has introduced two AI-powered service robots as part of its ongoing commitment to innovation and enhanced guest experiences. This pioneering initiative represents a significant step in integrating smart technology into hospitality operations in Kolhapur, positioning the hotel among the early adopters of AI-driven service solutions in the city while preserving its hallmark of warm, personalised hospitality.

The deployment includes a Lobby Service Robot that welcomes guests with drinks and water on arrival, creating a memorable first impression, and a Restaurant Service Robot at Moon Tree Café that assists with food delivery, improving service efficiency while adding a distinctive, futuristic element to the dining experience. Designed to support the service team, the robots navigate seamlessly through guest areas, enhancing both speed and consistency during busy periods.

Commenting on the initiative, Mukesh Rakshit, General Manager, Sayaji Kolhapur, said: “At Sayaji Kolhapur, we continuously seek ways to elevate guest experiences. Introducing AI-powered service robots allows us to blend modern technology with our core values of warmth and personalised service. This step enhances operational efficiency while ensuring that hospitality remains human-centred.”

The introduction of robotics reflects the hotel’s forward-looking approach to hospitality innovation in Kolhapur. By combining advanced technology with its established service ethos, Sayaji Kolhapur aims to deliver experiences that are efficient, engaging, and memorable, reinforcing its position as a progressive player in the city’s hospitality landscape while maintaining the essence of traditional guest care.

Le Méridien Dehradun Resort & Spa: A New Haven in the Himalayas

Marriott International has expanded its luxury portfolio in India with the debut of Le Méridien Dehradun Resort & Spa, a serene retreat nestled in the picturesque Doon Valley. This new property invites travelers to embrace a slower pace of life, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Himalayas.

A Resort Designed for Relaxation

• Location: Set against the backdrop of the Himalayas, overlooking the Nun River and lush hills.

• Rooms & Suites: 103 thoughtfully designed accommodations, blending modern amenities with a nature-inspired palette.

• Atmosphere: The resort emphasizes leisure and mindfulness, encouraging guests to “slow down and savour the good life.”

Culinary & Wellness Experiences

• Dining: Multiple restaurants and bars offering local flavors and international cuisine.

• Spa & Wellness: A full-service spa and wellness center designed to rejuvenate body and mind.

• Outdoor Activities: Opportunities for nature walks, cultural explorations, and immersive local experiences.

A Gateway to Uttarakhand

Dehradun, known for its scenic landscapes and pleasant climate, has long been a sought-after leisure destination. With this new resort, Marriott aims to elevate the region’s hospitality offerings, blending European sophistication with Indian warmth.

Part of Marriott Bonvoy

As a member of Marriott Bonvoy, the resort allows guests to earn and redeem points, connecting them to Marriott’s global network of luxury properties. This opening marks a significant milestone for Marriott in India, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to offering curated experiences that celebrate both local culture and global luxury standards.

OPO Hotels Expands Delhi NCR Portfolio with OPO Horizon – The Venue in Mahipalpur

New Delhi, February 2026: OPO proudly announces the management signing and operational presence of OPO Horizon – The Venue, a newly built upscale midscale hospitality destination located in Mahipalpur, New Delhi. The management agreement was formally finalized on 15th February 2026, marking a significant milestone in OPO’s expansion strategy within the Delhi NCR region.

Strategically positioned in Mahipalpur, one of NCR’s most dynamic hospitality corridors, OPO Horizon – The Venue benefits from immediate proximity to Indira Gandhi International Airport, ensuring unmatched accessibility for corporate, transit, and event-driven travelers. Seamless connectivity via National Highway 48 and close access to Aerocity further strengthen the hotel’s commercial relevance and demand potential. Together, these advantages position the property as a high-impact hospitality destination within Delhi NCR’s fast-moving business ecosystem.

Operating under a management model, the 50-key hotel is thoughtfully designed to cater to the evolving needs of modern business and transit guests. The property features 50 well-appointed rooms and a 40-cover all-day dining restaurant, offering a seamless blend of comfort, efficiency, and contemporary hospitality.

Already operational for corporate and transit segments, OPO Horizon – The Venue is well-aligned with the growing demand generated by airport-driven travel, corporate movement, and regional business activity. Its newly built infrastructure ensures modern amenities, operational efficiency, and a guest-centric experience from day one.

Commenting on the launch, Sandeep Basu, CEO, OPO Hotels, said: “OPO Horizon – The Venue represents our focused strategy of strengthening presence in high-demand, high-yield micro-markets. Mahipalpur continues to be a critical gateway location for Delhi NCR, and this property allows us to serve corporate and transit travelers with efficiency, quality, and consistency. This signing reinforces our commitment to scaling OPO Hotels as a dominant force in the managed midscale and experiential hospitality segment.”

Suba Hotels Limited Expands “Click Hotels” Brand with Three New Properties in Hyderabad, Ujjain, and Visakhapatnam

Suba Hotels Limited announced the signing of three new properties under the “Click Hotels” brand. The three properties are located in Hyderabad, Ujjain, and Visakhapatnam. Currently, the company manages 35 hotels under the same brand.

Informing about the signing of the hotels, the Managing Director of the company, Mansur Mehta, said, “Our brand Click Hotels has been gaining a lot of popularity and acceptance with both guests and owners. We are extremely happy with the response, and the entire team at Suba Hotels will strive hard to ensure that the Click Hotels brand receives more recognition and accolades from everyone.”

Reacting to the positive development of signing three properties, the CEO, Mubeen Mehta, said, “I congratulate the entire team on such a wonderful achievement. It truly shows the utmost commitment of the team. Such results are possible due to dedicated teamwork.” He added that it is also a testimonial to the fact that the Suba Group is expanding at a brisk pace.

Giving details of the three signed properties, the VP Operations of the company, Abinash Ashok, said, “The Click Hotel, Gachibowli, Hyderabad, is a 48-room property and is being developed in association with Multiverse Hotels. The Click Hotel, Ujjain, comprises 53 rooms, and The Click Hotel, Visakhapatnam, is a 32-room hotel developed in association with Abhiram Hotels & Resorts and Indus Group.”

Suba Hotels Limited is one of India’s largest and fastest-growing domestic hotel chains in the mid-market segment, offering a comprehensive mix of upscale, upper midscale, midscale, and economy brands. With a strong footprint across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, Suba has established itself through strategic market penetration, asset-light growth models, and a commitment to superior guest experiences at accessible price points.

Agoda Reports Holi Travel Trends in India, with Jaipur and Udaipur Drawing Strong Interest

Rising accommodation searches highlight growing appeal of cultural celebrations and immersive festival experiences

India, February 2026 – As Holi approaches, travellers are planning trips centred around places where the festival is most deeply and uniquely celebrated. Digital travel platform Agoda analysed accommodation search data for domestic travel for the upcoming Holi week, revealing a rise in travel interest compared to last year in destinations such as Jaipur, Udaipur and Vrindavan, where traditions, rituals and community celebrations shape the experience. Alongside temple towns and heritage cities, travellers are choosing destinations that allow them to participate in vibrant festivities and shared cultural moments.

Rajasthan’s Pink City, Jaipur, known for its grand palace-led Holi celebrations and home to the iconic Amer Fort, registered a 282 percent increase in accommodation searches compared to the Holi period last year. Udaipur saw a 233 percent rise in travel interest, as visitors look to experience lakeside Holi festivities set against the backdrop of Lake Pichola, with heritage hotels and boutique stays hosting curated celebrations. Pushkar, the revered pilgrimage town, experienced a 195 percent increase in searches, appealing to travellers drawn to its vibrant street gatherings and community-led celebrations unfolding around Pushkar Lake and its 52 bathing ghats.

In the north, Vrindavan draws travellers to its temple courtyards where flower Holi ceremonies, bhajans and traditional festivities create an immersive spiritual celebration, recording a 126 percent rise in travel interest. Mathura recorded a 109 percent increase in interest, attracting visitors keen to witness Holi in the birthplace of Lord Krishna, where temple rituals and traditional street celebrations bring the festival to life. Moving south, Hampi saw a 128 percent rise in searches, as its UNESCO-listed ruins and open temple squares transform into lively Holi gatherings that appeal to culture and history enthusiasts. Shanti Niketan in West Bengal, known for its Basanta Utsav, a distinctive cultural interpretation of Holi centred around music and art, registered a 43 percent increase in travel interest. These destinations saw a collective rise in travel interest of 211 percent.

International interest also added to the trend. Udaipur recorded a 459 percent increase in searches from across Asia compared to the previous year, while Jaipur saw over 191 percent growth in travel interest. The rise in interest was led by travelers from Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Japan and South Korea.

Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda said, “Holi has evolved into a key travel moment for both domestic and international visitors. India’s cultural festivities continue to strengthen the country’s global appeal, drawing travellers to plan their trips around distinctive local experiences. The increasing travel interest in temple towns and heritage cities reflects how cultural calendars are influencing travel decisions. At Agoda, we aim to simplify holiday planning by bringing together a diverse mix of stays, flights, and experiences, helping travellers make the most of their time during special occasions like Holi.”

As festivals like Holi continue to shape travel behaviour, Agoda provides access to a wide range of accommodations across price points and property types, alongside flights and activities that can be booked together in one place. With over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, travellers can plan complete trips with ease. Discover the latest deals on the Agoda mobile app or visit Agoda.com for more information.

CONNECT 2026 – Bengaluru: Karnataka Tourism Society Hosts Landmark Stakeholder Meet

Bengaluru, February 19, 2026: The Karnataka Tourism Society (KTS), in association with the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, successfully hosted CONNECT – 2026 Bengaluru, a premier platform designed to foster dialogue, strengthen partnerships, and generate actionable ideas for advancing Karnataka’s tourism and hospitality sector.

CONNECT 2026 was organised as an interactive session with travel, tourism, and hospitality stakeholders from Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Bengaluru South (Ramanagara), Kolar, Chikkaballapura, and Tumakuru districts. The program also included a felicitation segment recognising contributors to the success of the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE 2025), whose efforts elevated Karnataka’s visibility on the global tourism stage.

The event was graced by the presence of:

Shri. H.K. Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Law, Justice, Human Rights, Parliamentary Affairs & Legislation, and Tourism

Shri. K.V. Thrilok Chandra, IAS, Secretary to the Tourism Department, Govt. of Karnataka

Shri. Prashant Kumar Mishra, IAS, Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation Ltd.

Shri. Prashant Shankhinamath, IFS, Managing Director, Jungle Lodges & Resorts Ltd.

Alongside government leaders, KTS office bearers and stakeholders from across the tourism and hospitality sector of the participating districts were present, underscoring the collaborative spirit of CONNECT. 

Mr. K. Syama Raju, President of KTS in his welcome address said, “CONNECT is about building bridges—between destinations and communities, between government and industry, and between tradition and innovation. Our collective mission is to showcase Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty to the world, while creating opportunities that empower local communities and strengthen the tourism ecosystem.” 

Shri. K.V. Thrilok Chandra, IAS, Secretary to the Tourism Department, Govt. of Karnataka addressing the gathering said, “Karnataka offers immense opportunities for investors and stakeholders across eco-tourism, heritage conservation, adventure tourism, and hospitality infrastructure. Through our Tourism Policy 2024–29, we are committed to creating a robust ecosystem that balances growth with sustainability, while ensuring community participation and global visibility for Karnataka as ‘One State, Many Worlds’. The policy is anchored on nine strategic pillars—ranging from infrastructure development and skill training to sustainable tourism and digital initiatives. We have identified 25 tourism themes and 44 priority projects, backed by subsidies, concessions, and incentives to encourage private participation. Our goal is to attract over ₹7,800 crore in direct investments, create 1.5 lakh jobs, and showcase Karnataka in at least 50 global tourism events. By strengthening PPP models and institutional mechanisms, we aim to transform Karnataka into one of the top three states for domestic tourism and among the top five for foreign tourist visits by 2030.”

Mr. S. Mahalingaiah, Vice President of KTS said, “Over the past year, KTS has worked tirelessly to strengthen Karnataka’s visibility through B2B roadshows across Coimbatore, Cochin, Madurai, Salem, Indore, Nagpur, Aurangabad, Nashik, and Pune. These initiatives connected over 1,200 buyers with 70+ stakeholders, creating new linkages across regions. Equally significant was the success of KITE 2025, organised in February 2025, which brought together 130 exhibitors, 100 international buyers, 250 domestic buyers, and extensive coverage by international and national media. At CONNECT 2026, we were pleased to felicitate the exhibitors, members, and officials whose tireless contributions made KITE 2025 a landmark event. Looking ahead, our focus is on expanding outreach through programs like Discover Bidar, Explore Kalyana Karnataka, and upcoming roadshows in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Gujarat. These efforts will ensure Karnataka’s tourism sector continues to grow inclusively and sustainably.”

Hon’ble Tourism Minister, Shri H.K. Patil, while delivering the keynote address said, “Karnataka as a beautiful destination has much to offer. The recent discovery of the Lakundi gold treasure reminds us that Lakkundi was once a major economic and cultural center under the Kalyana Chalukyas, renowned for its 150 temples and inscriptions. Many such places across Karnataka stand as living proof of the state’s rich heritage. For the inclusive development of tourism, all stakeholders must join hands. While the Government can initiate and facilitate a few key measures, it is through the collective strength and creativity of stakeholders that we can multiply these efforts manifold. That is why we are pushing forward the PPP model—so that private enterprise, community participation, and government support can converge to unlock Karnataka’s full tourism potential.”

CONNECT – 2026 Bengaluru concluded with a call to action: to build bridges, strengthen networks, and showcase Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty to the world. The felicitation program for KITE 2025 contributors stood as a symbolic gesture of partnership between government and industry, reinforcing the shared commitment to elevate Karnataka’s tourism on the global stage.

Hunaaan Marks Lunar New Year with a Festive Menu Inspired by Tradition and Togetherness

Hunaaan, a contemporary Pan-Asian dining destination known for its flavour-led approach, welcomes the Lunar New Year with a thoughtfully curated menu that reflects the essence of tradition, renewal, and shared celebration. Available from 17th February to 3rd March, the special menu marks a time-honoured festival observed across Asia as the beginning of the lunar calendar, Rocsymbolising fresh beginnings, prosperity, and meaningful gatherings around food. Embracing this spirit, Hunaaan presents a festive menu designed for communal dining, where time-honoured symbolism meets modern Pan-Asian craftsmanship.

For the season, Hunaaan reimagines Lunar New Year dining through a carefully curated spread that balances comfort, cultural significance, and contemporary flair. The menu draws inspiration from dishes traditionally associated with luck and abundance, interpreted through Hunaaan’s signature lens of bold flavours, premium ingredients, and refined presentation. The result is a celebratory offering that feels indulgent yet familiar, crafted for families and friends coming together to mark the occasion.

The Lunar New Year menu features highlights such as Edamame Truffle Dumplings, Chicken Pouch Dumplings, and soft, flavour-packed baos like the Kung Pao Tofu Open Bao. The feast is anchored by celebratory mains including Blue Truffle Edamame & Corn Fried Rice and Fried Whole White Pomfret with Thai Basil Chilli Sauce, with the whole fish traditionally symbolising abundance and prosperity. A classic Daarsan with Salted Caramel Ice Cream rounds off the experience on a sweet, festive note.

At its core, Hunaaan is a modern Pan-Asian dining space that champions regional Asian flavours through a contemporary, lifestyle-driven lens. With its vibrant ambience, thoughtfully designed interiors, and a menu built around shared experiences, the restaurant has positioned itself as a destination for celebratory dining. This Lunar New Year, Hunaaan offers guests a setting that seamlessly blends culture, flavour, and modern hospitality, making it a natural choice for ringing in the season with style and substance

Vaarta Launches in Goa as the First Restaurant Redefining Indian Street Food Through Interactive Dining

A 160-Year-Old Home Where Indian Street Food, Memory and Conversation Come Together

National, February, 2026: In a restored 160-year-old Goan home tucked away in Sangolda, a new restaurant is quietly changing the way Indian street food is experienced. Vaarta, a fine-dine yet deeply approachable concept, opens its doors with a simple but powerful idea: food is never just about flavour it’s about memory, conversation, and belonging.

Unlike conventional street food destinations, Vaarta is not a chaat counter or a nostalgia-themed café. It is a carefully thought-through dining experience that gives Indian street food the time, dignity, and emotion it deserves, set within a heritage Goan home that already carries stories of its own.

What makes Vaarta first-of-its-kind in Goa is how interactive nostalgia is woven into the experience. Guests are welcomed by a live Puchka counter that anchors the experience, where each puchka is assembled fresh . They can choose from fillings like Aloo Masala, Aloo Dum, Dahi Aloo and Churmur, before selecting from the house-made waters from Sharp Jaljira and Tangy Tetul to sweet Saunth and cooling Pudina recreating the anticipation of a bustling street-side ritual, now reimagined in an intimate heritage setting.

Adding to the theatre is a ‘Make Your Own Barf Ka Gola’ cart, brought directly to the table, allowing diners to personalise flavours, textures, and spice levels turning a familiar childhood treat into a shared, conversational moment.

The space itself sets the tone long before the menu arrives. The 160-year-old home has been thoughtfully restored, with its original arches, aged flooring, and vintage windows preserved . The lighting is interconnected across the space, and the use of vintage round bakelite power switches has been intentionally retained to bring in an old-world, nostalgic feel. Rather than redesigning the house to fit a concept, Vaarta lets the home lead creating an atmosphere that feels intimate, unhurried, and deeply rooted in Goa.

“Vaarta was born from a simple longing, the kind of food that carries memory and invites conversation. I didn’t want to recreate street food; I wanted to give it the space and respect it deserves.” says Neha Mehta, Founder of Vaarta

The menu is rooted in Indian street food traditions from across cities and states, approached with care, restraint and deep respect for their origins. Each dish is thoughtfully composed to evoke memory while preserving the warmth, spontaneity and comfort that lie at the heart of street food.

It flows seamlessly from chaat favourites such as Palak Patta Chaat, Jhal Muri and Tokri Chaat to familiar, comforting snacks like Chelo Kebab, Suz Ke Seekh and Aloo Ki Taheri. The bar bites features flavour-forward plates including Spinach Chop, Tujj Tikka and Chicken Roast Kulcha, while the main courses celebrate regional depth with dishes like Dalcha Gosht, Gavran Chicken, Bharwaan Karela, Moti Pulao and Cholar Dal amongst others. Desserts bring the experience to a nostalgic close, with classics such as Bhapa Doi, Patishapta, Payasam, Shahi Tukda and Basundi offering a quiet sense of indulgence.

The bar menu mirrors the spirit of the kitchen, offering a playful yet thoughtful selection of drinks inspired by familiar Indian flavours. From the Pani Puri Popper and Kala Khatta Kamikaze to the Masala Chai Martini, Nimbu Mirch Margarita and Aam Panna Sour, each cocktail reimagines everyday tastes in unexpected ways. Lighter, refreshing options like the Shikanji Sparkler and Rose & Cardamom Lassi add a nostalgic finish, making the bar experience both inventive and comfortingly familiar.

Vaarta speaks equally to Goans, long-term settlers, and travellers. For locals, it recalls familiar flavours tied to markets, seaside evenings, and everyday indulgences. For those who have moved to Goa, it offers an emotional anchor, a reminder of flavours that once shaped home. And for travellers, it becomes an unexpected discovery: a place where Indian street food feels both refined and deeply personal.

In a state known for beach shacks and global cuisine, Vaarta offers something different: an intimate return to Indian flavours that shaped childhoods and cities alike. Here, street food slows down, conversations linger, and every bite carries a story.