VERTICES PARTNERS advises Curaa on INR 40 Crore Fundraise in Series A led by 3ONE4 CAPITAL

New Delhi, 2026: One of India’s leading legal advising firm with a notable track-record in private equity and venture capital space through their complex legal processes, VERTICES PARTNERS, recently advised Curaa - a New Delhi-based kitchen and lifestyle brand operated by Mojojojo Creators Private Limited, on its INR 40 crore Series A fundraise. Led by 3one4 Capital, the round also saw participation from existing investors including Kae Capital, Lumikai Fund and Better Capital.

The funding will aid Curaa to scale its operations in the direct-to-consumer kitchen and lifestyle segment. The newly raised capital will help support the company’s plans across product development, brand building and supply chain capabilities, while also helping it expand its omnichannel presence.

VERTICES PARTNERS played a vital advisory role in the transaction, with Partner Vishal Mehta leading the engagement. He was supported by Associate Manager Nisha Dharod and Associate Abhishikha Moyal, while Founder and Managing Partner Vinayak Burman provided strategic inputs through the transaction.

Operating in the D2C space, Curaa focuses on kitchen and lifestyle products. The freshly raised capital will help the company with additional resources to continue expanding its product portfolio and bolstering the infrastructure needed in scaling up presence across both online and offline channels.

On the investor side, Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas advised 3one4 Capital. The team was led by Partner Manish Gupta, with Principal Associate Rashi Singh and Associate Mannshree Sikchi also involved in the transaction.

IC RegFin Legal Partners LLP represented Lumikai Fund, with Partner Anish Jaipuriar leading the matter alongside Associate Utsav Vats.

Speaking about the transaction, Vinayak Burman, Founder & Managing Partner, VERTICES PARTNERS, said, “The Series A investment will provide Curaa the opportunity to deepen its product portfolio and strengthen the capabilities that will support its forthcoming growth phase. We are focused on helping the brand build a robust presence across the kitchen and lifestyle space. The transaction was an interesting opportunity for our team to work closely with the company and its investors.”

For VERTICES PARTNERS, the Curaa transaction adds to its work in advising growth-stage businesses and investors on private equity and fundraising transactions. The firm’s involvement covered the transaction from the advisory side, with its team working alongside the company and other stakeholders through the funding process.

The INR 40 crore fundraise comes as consumer-focused brands continue to build businesses around specialised product categories, direct customer engagement and omnichannel distribution.

The White Garba: Mumbai’s First All-White Pre-Navratri Celebration

Mumbai is all set for The White Garba, a large-scale pre-Navratri celebration presented by Epitome Live on 4th October 2026 at Dome, SVP Stadium.

Bringing Mumbai its first all-white Garba experience, the evening will feature popular Gujarati singer Kinjal Dave, along with non-stop Garba, an all-white setting, a curated flea market and a gourmet food experience.

The celebration brings together the traditional spirit of Garba with a fresh, stylish setting, with music, décor, food and entertainment coming together for a complete festive experience. With a large venue and live entertainment, The White Garba is set to bring a new flavour to Mumbai’s pre-Navratri celebrations.

Event: The White Garba
Presented by: Epitome Live
Featuring: Kinjal Dave
Date: 4th October 2026
Venue: Dome, SVP Stadium, Mumbai
Tickets: BookMyShow & District by Zomato

Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts Expands North Goa Portfolio with 40-Key Hotel in Calangute

Sibaya Courtyard by Stone Wood Premier becomes the second property under the Sibaya portfolio, with further expansion planned across India

2026, Goa: Sibaya, in partnership with Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts, has expanded its presence in North Goa with the opening of Sibaya Courtyard by Stone Wood Premier, a 40-room hotel in Calangute. The property marks the second hotel under the Sibaya portfolio, with Stone Wood Hotels & Resorts providing hospitality management and operational expertise.

Located in Khobra Vaddo, Sibaya Courtyard by Stone Wood Premier is positioned within the Baga–Calangute hospitality market, approximately a five-minute walk from Tito’s Lane and with convenient access to both Baga Beach and Calangute Beach. Despite its proximity to one of North Goa’s busiest tourism belts, the hotel is situated away from the more crowded stretches of the neighbourhood.

The property features 40 rooms across three categories: Deluxe Rooms with Balcony, Premium Rooms with Balcony and Pool View Rooms with Balcony. All rooms include private balconies.

Sibaya Courtyard also features a 1,507 square feet conference and banquet hall with a capacity of approximately 80 to 100 guests, allowing the hotel to cater to small corporate meetings, private functions and social celebrations. Other facilities include a swimming pool, an air-conditioned multi-cuisine restaurant with a bar and an open courtyard café.

The hotel is designed to cater to independent leisure travellers, families, small corporate groups and social gatherings, while its location provides convenient access to the wider Baga–Calangute tourism and entertainment district.

The design of the property draws from its Goa setting, with tropical influences incorporated through the colour palette, décor and bedroom wallpapers. The courtyard, private balconies and open social spaces have been designed to create a relaxed environment while maintaining the convenience of a centrally located North Goa hotel.

Commenting on the property, Shaminder Singh, Managing Partner, Sibaya Courtyard by Stone Wood Premier, said: “While developing Sibaya Courtyard, our focus with the architects was on creating a hotel that reflects what travellers increasingly seek in North Goa: proximity to the action without having to compromise on comfort or privacy. We have carried a tropical character through the interiors, including the colour palette, décor and bedroom wallpapers, to keep the design connected to its Goa setting. The courtyard, private balconies and open social spaces add to that approach, while the banquet and dining facilities allow us to serve leisure guests, corporate groups and intimate celebrations.” 

Shikhar Kumar, Managing Partner, Sibaya Courtyard by Stone Wood Premier, said, added: “North Goa is a highly competitive market, and location alone is no longer enough to differentiate a hotel. Travellers are looking for better-designed stays that offer access, comfort and a sense of privacy. Sibaya Courtyard has been developed around that requirement. It also allows us to address small-format corporate and social events, which are becoming an important source of year-round demand in Goa.”

The opening of Sibaya Courtyard by Stone Wood Premier marks another step in the development of the Sibaya portfolio, which began with Sibaya Beach Resort in Morjim.

Fairmont Mumbai Awarded the Prestigious Michelin Key 2026

Mumbai, 2026: Fairmont Mumbai has been awarded the prestigious Michelin Key 2026, one of the world's highest honours in luxury hospitality. Announced as part of the Michelin Guide's global 2026 hotel selection, the recognition celebrates hotels that offer exceptional stays through outstanding design, service and a strong sense of place. 

 defining addition to Mumbai's luxury hospitality landscape since February 2025, Fairmont Mumbai brings together the brand's signature codes of timeless elegance, grand design, thoughtful service and immersive cultural experiences. Inspired by the city's rich Art Deco heritage while reflecting Fairmont's global legacy of iconic hotels, the property has established itself as one of Mumbai's most distinctive luxury destinations in a short span.

“Receiving the Michelin Key is a very proud moment for all of us at Fairmont Mumbai. We have put a lot of thought into creating a hotel that has its own character from the design and the spaces to the food, experiences and, most importantly, the way we look after our guests. But none of this comes to life without the people behind it. It is their passion, attention to detail and genuine care that bring the entire experience together. To have that recognized by the MICHELIN Guide is incredibly meaningful to our team and a wonderful milestone for the hotel.”

— Mr. Rajiv Kapoor, General Manager, Fairmont Mumbai & Roswyn, A Morgans Originals Hotel

The Michelin Key places Fairmont Mumbai among a select collection of hotels recognised globally for delivering exceptional and memorable guest experiences.

Angsana Velavaru Inspires the Next Generation Through Sustainable Tourism on World Tourism Day 2026

Velavaru, Maldives | 2026 — In celebration of World Tourism Day 2026, Angsana Velavaru welcomed eight (8) students & three (3) teachers from the neighbouring islands of Hulhudheli for an educational and engaging day exploring tourism, resort operations, sustainability and marine conservation.

Held ahead of World Tourism Day on 27 September, this year’s theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” highlights the transformative role of technology and innovation in shaping a smarter, more competitive and sustainable tourism industry. At Angsana Velavaru, the occasion provided an opportunity to bring the spirit of the theme closer to the local community by introducing young islanders to the tourism industry and highlighting the importance of responsible practices in protecting the Maldives’ natural environment.

During the visit, students were given a direct tour of Angsana Velavaru, visiting different departments across the resort to gain a first-hand understanding of how a resort operates. From guest-facing teams to the departments working behind the scenes, students were introduced to the people, skills and processes that come together to create the overall guest experience. The tour also provided an insight into the diverse career opportunities available within the hospitality and tourism industry.

A key part of the programme was learning how sustainability is incorporated into the resort’s daily operations. Students were introduced to Angsana Velavaru’s waste management and resource conservation practices, including waste segregation, reduction, reuse and recycling. The session demonstrated how responsible waste management can reduce environmental impact and contribute to maintaining a cleaner and healthier island environment. It also highlighted that sustainability is built through everyday actions, with both associates and guests playing an important role in making responsible choices.

The students were also introduced to Angsana Velavaru’s ongoing marine conservation efforts through the resort’s Marine Lab. They learned about the importance of coral reefs to the Maldivian ecosystem and the role they play in providing habitats for marine life. The Marine Lab currently supports two coral rope nurseries and one coral garden within the lagoon, alongside ongoing conservation activities including coral planting and reef cleaning.

Through the experience, students were able to see how tourism and environmental conservation can work together. Beyond simply enjoying the natural beauty of the Maldives, the visit encouraged the students to understand the responsibility involved in protecting the marine environment and the natural resources that support the country’s tourism industry.

For Angsana Velavaru, World Tourism Day is an opportunity not only to celebrate the tourism industry, but also to connect with the young people who will help shape its future. By welcoming students from nearby islands and sharing the resort’s operations and sustainability practices, the resort aims to inspire greater awareness of tourism, encourage future career aspirations and nurture a stronger sense of environmental responsibility among the next generation.

Sterling Deepens Spiritual Tourism Strategy with Entry into Varanasi

Sterling Varanasi opens near Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, strengthening the brand’s network across India’s high-intent spiritual destinations.

Chennai,  2026: Sterling Holiday Resorts Limited has announced its entry into Varanasi with the opening of Sterling Varanasi, adding one of India’s most significant spiritual destinations to its growing portfolio.

Located near the revered Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, the 33-room hotel offers convenient access to Assi Ghat, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Banaras Hindu University and the ghats of the Ganges, giving guests a well-connected base from which to experience Kashi.

The opening strengthens Sterling’s presence across destinations where faith and spirituality are powerful reasons to travel. With Ayodhya, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Guruvayur, Tiruvannamalai, Pushkar, Madurai and Puri already part of its network, Varanasi adds an important destination to the company’s growing spiritual travel footprint.

For Sterling, the opportunity goes beyond pilgrimage. Faith-led journeys are increasingly intersecting with family travel, culture, cuisine, heritage and discovery, while travellers seek greater comfort, reliability and quality hospitality.

Commenting on the opening, Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts (SHRL), said:

“Our strategy is to understand why India travels and build around those reasons. Spiritual travel has always been one of India’s most enduring travel motivations; what is changing is the traveller and the experience around the journey.

In Varanasi, the reason to travel may begin with faith, but the journey can extend into family, culture, cuisine, history and discovery. Our role is to make that experience more comfortable, reliable and meaningful. Kashi therefore becomes an important addition to Sterling’s destination-led growth strategy.”

Sterling Varanasi features 33 contemporary rooms, including the unique Premier Rooms with balconies offering views of Kashi.

Its vegetarian restaurant, RASA KASHI, draws inspiration from Varanasi’s food traditions while offering a wider menu for contemporary travellers, bringing together two elements deeply associated with the city—food and faith.

On the fifth floor, KASHI REGALIA, a partially covered glass-roof venue with 180-degree views across Varanasi, offers a distinctive setting for intimate celebrations, family gatherings and special occasions.

Guests can build their stay around the rhythms of the destination—from early-morning boat journeys on the Ganges and the evening Ganga Aarti to temple visits, Sarnath, Banarasi cuisine, silk and local craft traditions.

Mr. Arya Vishwajeet Singh, Aditi Group, Owner of Sterling Varanasi, said:

“Our vision was to create a contemporary hospitality address that understands why people come to Varanasi and makes that journey easier and more comfortable. Sterling brings the brand reach, operating expertise and distribution strength to establish the property as a trusted hospitality address in the city.”

The addition of Varanasi further advances Sterling’s Destination Architect strategy—building its network around why people travel, rather than conventional destination categories alone. A journey may begin with the hills, wildlife, wellness, culture or spirituality.

Series by Marriott Debuts in South Korea with the Opening of Anook Signature Seoul Guro

Series by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy's global portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today announced its debut in South Korea with the opening of 104-room Anook Signature Seoul Guro, Series by Marriott. The opening marks the latest milestone in the Asia Pacific expansion of Series by Marriott, following the brand’s global debut in India in 2025 and entry into Japan in April 2026. Three additional hotels are expected to join the portfolio in South Korea by the end of 2026, in Insadong (Seoul), Guwol (Incheon) and Haeundae (Busan).

“The debut of Series by Marriott in South Korea marks another important step in the brand’s expansion across Asia Pacific,” said Cristiano Rinaldi, Chief Lodging Product & Services Officer, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. “Through Series by Marriott, we are bringing regionally recognized hotel groups into our portfolio while preserving the character and familiarity that have earned the trust of local travelers. Anook Signature Seoul Guro reflects this vision, combining a distinctly local hospitality experience with the quality, care and global connectivity guests expect from Marriott.”

• Brand Milestone: First Series by Marriott hotel in South Korea, following the brand’s launches in India and Japan. Three further South Korea openings planned in Insadong, Guwol and Haeundae by the end of 2026.

• Accommodation & Location: 104 guestrooms and suites, located near Guro Digital Complex, with convenient access to Gimpo International Airport and Incheon International Airport.

• Dining & Wellness: Korean cuisine at Anook Restaurant, plus a sauna and fitness center.

• Meetings & Social Spaces: Meeting facilities for intimate groups, a business center, rooftop lounge and outdoor terrace.

The 17-story hotel is situated in Seoul’s southwestern business corridor, near Guro Digital Complex, where technology, business and everyday local life intersect. Offering convenient access to meetings, dining and events across Guro, Gasan, Yeouido and other west Seoul destinations, the hotel is well suited to short business trips and extended stays. It is located approximately 16 km from Gimpo International Airport and 57 km from Incheon International Airport, providing a convenient base from which to explore the wider city.

A Korean-Inspired Approach to Rest and Renewal

The name Anook comes from the Korean word for coziness and comfort, reflecting the country’s long-standing culture of rest centered on warm water, nourishing food and restorative sleep. At the heart of the hotel experience is a continuous “Recovery Ritual” that takes guests from sauna, to dining, to sleep. Beginning in the hotel’s sauna, guests can ease the tensions of travel and city life before continuing their journey through comforting Korean cuisine and a restful night’s sleep. The experience unfolds within a “Layered Urban Retreat,” where clean lines, warm wood tones and indirect lighting create a calm contrast to the surrounding city. Together, the design and guest experience offer a contemporary interpretation of Korea’s culture of rest and renewal.

Comfortable Guestrooms and Spacious Suites for Business and Leisure Stays

Anook Signature Seoul Guro, Series by Marriott features 104 guestrooms and suites, ranging from Standard Rooms to spacious Junior and Penthouse Suites. Designed for both short business trips and extended stays, accommodations feature individual climate control, a 43-inch LED television and a dedicated work area. Select suites offer separate living areas or an in-room whirlpool, while accessible accommodations are also available.

Korean Dining, Sauna Facilities, and a Complimentary Fitness Center

Guests can enjoy Korean cuisine at Anook Restaurant, while their stay can be complemented by wellness facilities at the hotel including a sauna and fitness center. The hotel also offers meeting space for intimate groups, a business center, rooftop lounge and outdoor terrace, providing flexible settings for work, relaxation and informal gatherings.

Shin Hyun-wook and Kim Jun-ha, Co-CEOs of The Hyusik, said, “We are delighted to bring Series by Marriott to South Korea for the first time through our partnership with Marriott International. Travel demand in Korea is expanding beyond the city center into districts where daily life and business intersect, and Anook Signature Hotel Seoul Guro, Series by Marriott, will offer a new option for travelers seeking dependable, well-executed stays at a reasonable value.” 

Anook Signature Seoul Guro, Series by Marriott participates in Marriott Bonvoy, the award-winning travel program from Marriott International, allowing members to earn points for their stay at the new hotel and at other properties across Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of extraordinary hotel brands. With the Marriott Bonvoy app, members enjoy a level of personalization and a contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind.

Designing for Slow Living: How Architecture Is Changing the Way We Experience Luxury

Luxury design is increasingly moving beyond aesthetics to shape how people experience space, nature and time. At Awas Country Club, a patrons-only private club in Alibaug, architecture and landscape come together to create a setting centred around privacy, nature, well-being and a slower rhythm of living.

Set within mature mango trees and landscaped greens, the property is designed as a biophilic oasis, with natural light, open spaces and the landscape woven into the experience. The pool opens to the sky, while shaded pathways and dense greenery create a naturally calm setting.

The same approach extends into the three private five-bedroom villas, each spanning over 4,700 sq. ft., with garden-facing bedrooms, private terraces, generous living and dining areas, and contemporary coastal interiors. Natural light and handcrafted finishes add to the understated aesthetic, while the terraces create an open connection with the surrounding landscape.

Across the club, the Green Zone brings together squash, padel, pickleball, a golf simulator and fitness facilities, creating dedicated areas for movement and active leisure. The Blue Zone combines a Himalayan Salt Room, Saltstone Spa, jacuzzi, cold plunge, steam, sauna and open-to-sky areas for pause and recovery. Bringing these offerings within one estate allows patrons to move naturally between activity and downtime, without the need to follow a fixed pace.

The wider property also accommodates moments of gathering, with living and dining areas within the villas flowing into one another and private terraces extending the interiors outdoors. At the clubhouse, Drift’s multi-cuisine dining, private lounging areas and the Blue Mind Central Court sit alongside a mini theatre, karaoke room, card room and Mahjong room, offering settings for dining, recreation and socialising.

At Awas, architecture is therefore closely tied to the way the property is experienced: through natural surroundings, open areas, private residences and a considered mix of wellness, recreation and hospitality. Rather than imposing a single way to spend time, the property brings these elements into one setting, allowing patrons to shape their own rhythm within the club.