Author: Asmita Mukherjee | Hyderabad
Fenestration – the art and science of designing windows, doors, and skylights has evolved from being a mere functional necessity to an essential element of architecture that defines aesthetics, sustainability, and comfort. At the forefront of this transformation in India is Window Magic, a pioneer in uPVC and aluminium window and door systems. Established in 2002, the company set out to revolutionise the fenestration industry by introducing German technology that combined performance with eco-friendliness and visual appeal. Manish Bansal, CEO and Director of Window Magic, a graduate of the University of Kent, UK, has brought strategic foresight, global perspective, and a…
The hospitality industry still fighting to close its gender gap, Mandeep Kaur has claimed a historic first, leading South Asia’s only luxury service residence run entirely by women. As the General Manager of Taj Wellington Mews, Chennai, she commands an all-female workforce that powers every department, from the kitchen to engineering, rewriting old rules in a sector long dominated by men. For Kaur, this isn’t just about running a hotel; it’s about building an empire of opportunity, where women’s leadership is not the exception but the standard. On a busy stretch of Old Mahabalipuram Road, in the heart of Chennai’s IT corridor,…
Ritesh Mastipuram, an entrepreneur from Hyderabad is best known for building Asia’s largest organised spa chain, O2 Spa, which is now called Ode Spa. He is now making a significant investment in a new area; wellness-driven hospitality real estate. As the Founder and Managing Director of Ridhira Group, Mastipuram is creating a niche in the sub-100-room resort market. Here, luxury is defined not by marble and chandeliers but by sustainability, personalised care, and the promise that guests will leave healthier than they arrived. His career spans Silicon Valley tech, disruption in the spa industry, and wellness-focused communities. He is positioning…
Delhi NCR-based Lebanese food chain Arabian Delites is gearing up for an ambitious expansion plan to reach INR 100 crore in revenue and open 100 outlets nationwide. “Our immediate focus is to establish seven self-owned outlets in Delhi NCR; this will create a solid operational base,” said Mandeep Singh, Managing Director of Arabian Delites. “Once we accomplish that goal, we plan to seek external funding to support our larger expansion plans. We will use the investment to open 100 new outlets in tier-I and tier-II cities, build a strong supply chain, and enhance our backend operations.” Currently, Arabian Delites…
With decades of experience in the hospitality industry and a strong commitment to improving the housekeeping profession, Jayashree Nagaraj is a key figure in changing behind-the-scenes service into a respected part of hospitality. As the Founder-President of the Professional Housekeepers’ Association (PHA), she has not only supported professional development and recognition for housekeepers but has also helped create a lively platform across India and Asia that empowers thousands in the industry. In a conversation with Asmita Mukherjee, Nagaraj reflects on her personal journey, the significance of PHA’s 10th anniversary, the challenges housekeeping faces today, and her bold vision for the…
With a career spanning over 37 years, Vaneeta Arora, Corporate Director, Housekeeping, The Park Hotels has witnessed housekeeping’s transformation from a purely operational, behind-the-scenes function into a strategic pillar of guest satisfaction, brand identity, and sustainability. At The Park, she leads with a philosophy that blends meticulous attention to detail, empathy, and smart technology — ensuring her teams deliver not just efficiency, but memorable guest experiences. In a conversation with Asmita Mukherjee, she reflects on key shifts in the profession, the role of empathy in process-driven environments, and how innovations like digital housekeeping systems, ergonomic tools, and sustainable practices are reshaping staff well-being…
Café Delhi Heights, known for its quirky and relaxed vibe, is preparing for a major expansion. The brand plans to increase its outlets from 46 to 120 by 2028. This ambitious goal is a key part of its long-term strategy and aims to boost the brand’s revenue to an impressive INR 500 crore, according to co-founder Vikrant Batra. He also informed that , This next phase of growth will see the brand deepen its presence in tier-I cities like Mumbai, while also entering emerging tier-II markets such as Meerut and Mohali. Batra attributes the brand’s confidence to “the love, trust,…
The roots of Priya Living are very personal. Its Founder, Arun Paul, grew up witnessing the emotional impact of migration. His parents left part of themselves in India so their child could have better opportunities abroad. That sacrifice set the stage for a lifelong mission, to create meaningful, connected communities for older adults. Founded to rethink aging, Priya Living offers more than just housing. It creates vibrant, purpose-driven communities where residents can thrive, lead, and feel they belong. Now, as Priya Living opens its first community in Hyderabad, the mission comes full circle. In an exclusive interview with Asmita Mukherjee,…
After honing his skills in top kitchens and Michelin starred restaurants across India and London, Chef Balaji Balachander returned home with a mission to build something of his own. A Taj Coromandel alumnus, he Co-Founded Salt, Indian Restaurant & Grill with longtime colleague Chef Goutham Balasubramanian. While Chef Bala’s global experiences shaped his culinary vision, adjusting to India’s changing work culture posed challenges. Chef Bala quickly realised that finding talent with the right mindset was harder than he thought. However, with patience and determination, he focused on creating a strong cultural foundation. Today, Salt’s team reflects those values, with many…
Hyderabad’s mindful dining bar to invest INR 85 Cr, eyes 15 outlets In a city where oversized platters and Instagrammable portions often take centre stage, PAWWA is flipping the narrative with its ‘Quarter Culture’- a unique concept that promotes mindful consumption, culinary freedom, and everyday accessibility. “We wanted to revive the soul of quarter bars and toddy shops,” says Sanjay Kumar Reddy Mula, Founder of PAWWA. “But we’ve upgraded the idea—now, you can get quarter, half, or full portions not just for drinks but for food too.” At PAWWA, portion flexibility isn’t just a gimmick, it’s the core philosophy. “A vegetarian, a seafood lover, and…
