With Dussehra and Diwali ushering in much-awaited long weekends this year, WelcomHeritage invites travelers to escape the ordinary and celebrate amidst heritage, nature, and understated luxury. From snow-draped Himalayan hideaways to the regal deserts of Rajasthan, and from the wild landscapes of Corbett to the timeless beauty of Kashmir, every WelcomHeritage property offers the perfect backdrop for the season of lights and togetherness. No matter which part of the country you’re traveling from, WelcomHeritage has the ideal getaway waiting to make your festive holidays truly memorable.

 Instead of conventional festive offers, WelcomHeritage presents curated stays designed for memorable celebrations, where families, couples, and friends can indulge in authentic regional experiences, delectable cuisines, and the signature warmth of Indian hospitality.

 Commenting on the festive season, Abhishek Bhattacharya , Head-Sales, WelcomHeritage said “Festivals are about joy, bonding, and creating memories. This year’s long weekends present the perfect opportunity to explore India’s diverse destinations with us. Each of our properties is steeped in local culture and history, ensuring guests don’t just celebrate the festivals but also experience the spirit of the region in its most authentic form.”

Guests can choose from a range of properties that perfectly complement the festive spirit:

•   WelcomHeritage Elysium Resort & Spa, Shimla – Nestled amidst pine and cedar forests, the resort offers sweeping views of the hills, a spa for rejuvenation, and an old-world charm perfect for a cozy Diwali retreat.

•   WelcomHeritage Tarangi Ramganga Resort, Corbett – For nature lovers, this riverside retreat offers the thrill of the wild with safaris and bonfire evenings, making it ideal for a festive family getaway.

•   WelcomHeritage Natraj, McLeodganj – Set against the backdrop of the Dhauladhars, this is where spirituality meets festivity, with Tibetan culture, bustling markets, and crisp mountain air.

•   WelcomHeritage Gurkha Houseboats & WH Grand, Srinagar – Experience Diwali lights reflecting over the Dal Lake, as Kashmiri hospitality blends seamlessly with timeless traditions.

•   WelcomHeritage Bal Samand Lake Palace, Jodhpur – A royal escape where guests can soak in the grandeur of Rajputana heritage, sprawling gardens, and the festive glow of Rajasthan’s Blue City.

•   WelcomHeritage Kasmanda Palace, Mussoorie – Overlooking the Doon valley, this colonial-era palace offers a majestic setting for festive family gatherings.

•   WelcomHeritage Santa Roza, Kasauli – Tucked in the serene hills, this boutique retreat is perfect for couples looking to celebrate Dussehra or Diwali in intimate luxury.

With carefully curated culinary delights, serene settings, and activities that range from safaris to spa therapies, WelcomHeritage ensures every festive holiday becomes an unforgettable story.

Book your festive escape now and let WelcomHeritage be a part of your celebrations.

For bookings and more information, please visit: www.welcomheritagehotels.in

What inspired the reimagining of Byg Brewski’s menu…

At Byg Brewski, we’ve always believed in pushing the boundaries of what a brewpub can offer. The idea behind the new menu was born from a desire to elevate the guest experience and respond to the growing demand for curated, immersive dining. Today, guests are not just looking for a meal—they’re seeking a story, an experience that lingers beyond the last bite. By pairing our signature craft beers with globally inspired dishes, we’re creating an environment where beer is no longer just a beverage but an integral part of the dining narrative. This reimagined menu reflects our commitment to innovation and positions us as pioneers in India’s evolving F&B landscape. It’s not merely a revamp—it’s a bold step forward in redefining beer cuisine and enriching our patrons’ journey with every visit to Byg Brewski.

2. How does the new menu contribute to enhancing craft beer culture in India?

India’s craft beer culture is growing rapidly, but there’s still vast potential to explore. At Byg Brewski, we see food as a powerful medium to introduce guests to the depth and diversity of craft beer. Our new menu is designed to highlight the interplay between flavor profiles—how a smoky ale can elevate a spicy entrée, or how citrus notes in a beer can accentuate a fresh salad. By making beer the focal point of the culinary experience, we’re educating palates and fostering a deeper appreciation for artisanal brewing. This approach promotes mindful consumption and elevates beer from a casual drink to a gourmet experience. We’re not just serving food and beer—we’re creating a platform for discovery, which is essential to cultivating a mature and vibrant craft beer culture in India.

3. Can you tell us more about the collaboration between the culinary and brewing teams…

The collaboration between our culinary and brewing teams has been the driving force behind this menu transformation. We approached the process as a creative fusion—where each dish and each beer had to work in harmony to create a memorable experience. Klinth Lissy Crasta, our culinary visionary, led the charge with an unwavering commitment to innovation. She worked hand-in-hand with our master brewers, engaging in extensive tasting sessions and exploring countless ingredient combinations to craft dishes that not only complemented our beers but also elevated their profiles. For instance, our smoked pineapple ale found its perfect match in dishes that feature charred or spicy notes, creating a delightful contrast. This was more than a pairing exercise—it was an artistic collaboration that brought out the best in both food and beer. The result is a menu that tells a flavorful story, built on passion, craftsmanship, and a shared love for culinary excellence.

4. With locations across Bengaluru, how do you ensure consistency…

Consistency in guest experience is critical, especially when serving over 75,000 guests a month across multiple locations. At the same time, we understand the value of offering a localized and fresh experience at each venue. To strike that balance, we’ve implemented a standardized training program for our chefs and front-of-house teams—ensuring they understand not just the recipes, but the philosophy behind each dish and pairing. Simultaneously, we allow for some creative flexibility based on local preferences, seasonal ingredients, and special events. This ensures that each outlet—whether in Hennur, Sarjapur, or Yeshwanthpur—delivers the signature Byg Brewski experience while maintaining a unique character. Ultimately, our goal is to make every visit feel distinct yet unmistakably part of the Byg Brewski journey.

5. What’s next for Byg Brewski in terms of innovation and expansion?

The reimagined menu is just one of many exciting chapters in our journey. Moving forward, we’re exploring innovations in experiential dining—such as beer tasting trails, chef’s table dinners, and immersive events that bring brewing and cooking to life for our guests. We also plan to expand beyond Bengaluru, entering new markets where craft beer culture is gaining momentum. In addition, we’re investing in technological enhancements, sustainability initiatives, and community engagement. Our vision is to position Byg Brewski as a benchmark for brewpub excellence in India—a place where people come not just to eat or drink, but to connect, learn, and experience something truly memorable. Innovation remains our compass, and the road ahead is full of exciting opportunities.

6. How do you see the evolving consumer palate influencing…

Today’s consumers are more adventurous and informed than ever before. They’re not just eating—they’re exploring, experimenting, and seeking authenticity. This evolution has deeply influenced our food and brewing strategies. At Byg Brewski, we’ve embraced bold flavors, fusion ideas, and a strong focus on quality ingredients. Guests are eager to try beers with unique infusions or dishes with unexpected global influences, and our menu reflects that curiosity. We’re also responding to the growing demand for transparency and sustainability by sourcing local, seasonal produce and brewing with purpose. This evolving palate challenges us—in the best way—to constantly innovate while remaining true to our brand ethos. It’s a dynamic relationship: as our patrons grow in taste and awareness, so do we.

The Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival 2024 came to a grand conclusion, leaving the festival-goers amazed with a legendary lineup of performances, cultural showcases, and fun activities that made this year’s event truly unforgettable. Held at the RBDSA Sports Complex, the two-day festival attracted more than 50,000 visitors each day, celebrating music, at the “Music Capital of India”.

The final day was a fitting climax. Internationally acclaimed British band Clean Bandit delivering an electrifying performance that had the audience swaying to their global hits. Bollywood sensation Kanika Kapoor added her signature charm, while Dutch-Moroccan DJ R3HAB brought the house down with his high-energy beats, transforming the arena into a pulsating dance floor. Local stars, including Khasi Bloodz and SK Korn, continued to shine, representing the vibrant talent of Meghalaya and showcasing the region’s deep connection to music.

The festival kicked off on November 15 with a spectacular Day 1, headlined by global R&B icon Akon, who mesmerized the crowd with hits from his Superfan Tour. Legendary band Boney M, on their Farewell Tour, delivered a nostalgic performance. Other highlights include renditions by Jasleen Royal, an electrifying show by international artist Lucas, and powerful performances by regional favourites like The Great Society, Rito Riba and Queen Sensation. The day also featured the highly anticipated Sakura Fashion Design Contest, alongside art installations and diverse food stalls that kept the crowd engaged throughout.

Adding to the festival’s success, the Japan Arena stood out as a hub, hosting anime screenings, cosplay competitions, and interactive activities that drew in fans of all ages. Across both days, visitors also enjoyed karaoke sessions, sumo wrestling demonstrations, and a host of engaging activities in the Japanese arena that made the festival an inclusive experience for all.

Akon, who arrived Assam yesterday was welcomed with a spectacular Khasi Welcome to Northeast at Hotel Mayfair Guwahati. Followed which, he also experienced a traditional welcome by the Khasi Seng Community.

The relentless efforts of Government of Meghalaya, through these festivals not only brings thousands of tourists to the state, creating an exceptional example of boosting economic growth but also promotes the local and aspiring stars of Meghalaya making the MGMP Artists perform at such a big platform. While inaugurating the festival yesterday, Hon’ble DoNER Minister Shri Jyotiraditya Scindia shared his incredible experience saying he has never seen such energy in any festival across India. He lauded the efforts of the Government and the people of Meghalaya, saying, “Hats off to Conrad; hats off to you all(the people of Meghalaya)”

Under the leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Conrad K. Sangma, the government has worked tirelessly to elevate the festival’s stature on the global stage. The seamless organization, diverse programming, and focus on showcasing local talent alongside international stars exemplify the vision and dedication of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, who is himself a musician and an ardent lover of music.

• As the curtain falls on this year’s festivities, the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival has once again proven to be a landmark event, bringing together the best of global and local culture while celebrating the unique beauty of Meghalaya’s Cherry
  

  Blossoms.

In his keynote address at the Closing Ceremony, His Excellency Firat Sunel, stated, “Literature is a vessel that carries the voices of all who came before us. It allows us to hear voices that has been marginalised and silenced in official histories. With the forgotten folklore project in Shillong, Meghalaya has shown its commitment for protection of its cultural heritage.” He said, “Meghalaya is a state of nature borne musicians.” He lauded the musical talent the state hold and invited the musicians of Meghalaya to perform in Turkiye.

Hon’ble Tourism Minister Bah Paul Lyngdoh stated, “It is indeed a privilege for me to bring the curtains down for the 4th edition of Lit Fest, 2024.” He said that this edition of Shillong Literary Festival has been the most successful edition of the literary festivals. “Lit Fest, 2024 is just a precursor for the next level where we will elevate and enhance the experience of literature.” He thanked his excellency, the Ambassador of Turkiye for inviting musicians of Meghalaya and accepted the invitation stating that the state will certainly take its best musicians to perform in Turkiye. Cuisine, culture, climate, customs- all of these are very strong and powerful USPs of Meghalaya, as a state.

Day Three of the festival opened with ‘The Lighthouse Family’, a candid conversation with His Excellency Firat Sunel, Ambassador of Türkiye, moderated by Cyril V. D. Diengdoh, IAS, Director of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya. His excellency Firat Sunel gave an eloquent introduction into his book where he took the audience to the “historical fiction set against the backdrop of Second World War.” On being asked about how he manages diplomacy and literature together, he added, “As a diplomat you meet a lot of people. You don’t need to run behind the story. The story comes to you.”

The session Words on Screen: Bollywood x Northeast, featuring Nicholas Kharkongor, Director of Axone and Nancy Nisa Beso in conversation with Mayank Shekhar, explored the intricate relationship between the film industry and the representation of Northeast India.

Travel: The World and Northeast India, a conversation between Samrat Choudhury and Mitra Phukan, took attendees on a metaphorical journey reflecting on growing prominence of travel writing. Choudhury, while discussing his book ‘A Braided River’ and his travel anecdotes besides the Brahmaputra, said, “The Brahmaputra is the original highway of the entire region”.

The magic of oral storytelling came alive during the session: The Power and Magic of Oral Storytelling, where Desmond Kharmawphlang engaged in a spirited discussion with Janet Dkhar. Desmonfmd Kharmawphlabg said, “There is a misconception that all the epics are written. There are these amazingly long complex stories which are not characteristic as epics as they are not there in the written version”, reflecting on oral storytelling in Garo hills and Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya.

Nina Sabnani, in conversation with Samanda Nora Pyngrope, unravelled the art of storytelling in animation and film during the session Crafting Worlds.

In the penultimate session of the three-day celebration of literature titled ‘Publishing Unveiled: The Art of Fact and Fiction’, Elizabeth Kuruvilla and Anindita Ghose examined the delicate balance between truth and imagination in publishing. The session provided aspiring writers with valuable insights into navigating the world of literature and publishing.

The festival concluded with a closing ceremony, featuring a keynote address by His Excellency Firat Sunel in presence of Bah Paul Lyngdoh, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism. The welcome address to the closing ceremony was given by Cyril VD Diengdoh, Director of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya.

The evening culminated in a mesmerising musical performance, Mamma Mia, by the talented students at St. Edmund’s School, leaving the audience enthralled. Every evening, the artists from MGMP performed in the festival alluring the visitors.

The 4th edition of this literary extravaganza, till date, has been the most successful festival in terms of footfall (Over 15,000 visitors) as well the line-up of speakers and moderators, ranging from the legends like Vikram Seth, Shobha De, Jerry Pinto, Anita Agnihotri, Arupjyoti Saikia, Kynpham S Nongkynirh, Sanjoy Hazarika, Madhu Raghavendra, Patricia Mukhim, Malavika Banerjee, Kanishka Gupta and many other doyens from the field of art, literature and cinema.

UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds paid tribute, calling Tata a “titan of the business world” who played a significant role in shaping British industry.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, describing Tata as a “visionary business leader, compassionate soul and an extraordinary human being.” Modi, deeply saddened by his passing, reflected on their “countless interactions” in a tribute shared on X.

Shahnaz Husain, founder of The Shahnaz Husain Group expressed her condolences and said, “I had the honour of meeting Ratan Tata, albeit briefly, during an event that celebrated the achievements of Indian enterprises on the global stage.” When introduced to him, he greeted me with a warm smile and, in his characteristic understated manner, said, ‘You have taken Ayurveda to the world; I have taken India to the world.’ Those words, so simple yet powerful, have stayed with me ever since. He was a role model and inspiration to the world. His kind of person who lived and loved will never be born again.”

N. Chandrasekaran, Tata Sons Chairman, expressed, “On behalf of the entire Tata family, I extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones. His legacy will continue to inspire us as we work to uphold the values he so passionately championed.”

National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah and PDP’s Iltija Mufti condoled the death of Ratan Tata, saying he was a humble man whose contribution can never be forgotten.

“It is shocking. He (Tata) was a humble man. He opened his family organisation for everyone. He took his company to the entire world,” Abdullah said.

Tata’s passing marks the loss of a leader who transformed Indian business market. His leadership, humility and commitment to social responsibility earned him admiration worldwide. Tributes emphasise not only his business achievements but also his remarkable kindness. Tata’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

The event was held in the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, on Thursday, 1st August 2024. Frankfinn received awards for the Highest Training Centre Affiliation for Student Paid Programme and the Highest Enrolment in Student Paid Programme. These awards were presented by Mr. Rajan Bahadur, CEO of THSC, and received by Mr. Anshul Gauba, Director of sales and Operations, Frankfinn Group.

The THSC awards recognise companies that rank in skilling and training performance. Other prominent awardees were JITM, PVR, The Leela, The Oberoi Group of Hotels, and Frankfinn. Frankfinn’s history of excellence is already documented; the “Best Training Partner” award by THSC was received by Frankfinn four times between 2017 and 2023. This year’s recognition further consolidates its position of providing quality training through its various centres spread across India, including smaller cities.

With the industry experience since 1993, Frankfinn has committed its three decades to the cause of carving the future of aspiring air hostesses and is now geared up for exponential growth. As an add-on to this partnership with Air India, the detailed cabin service familiarisation is extended to the students, culminating in a co-branded certificate that enhances their credentials. Frankfinn centres are fully equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure like advanced computer labs and audio-visual aids, creating a professional learning environment. Courses are conducted by the institute’s highly trained resource persons, and hands-on training is given on leading computerised reservation systems used globally in the airline, hotel, and travel industries.

Frankfinn is affiliated with NSDC (National Skill Development Corporation) and THSC. It has showcased robust placement records, where nearly 11,000 students were placed in the aviation, hospitality, travel, and customer service sectors in one year. The institute has continuously been in the Limca Book of Records for the highest cabin crew placements yearly. The highest salary package offered to Frankfinn students stands at Rs 1.75 lakh per month, which speaks volumes about the quality of training imparted by this institute.

Honours for Frankfinn include “Best Air Hostess Training Institute” for eleven successive years from 2011-2022 and the Gold Award for “Best Higher Vocational Institute for Skill Development” by Assocham for four successive years from 2016-2019. The institute also won the “Best Aviation Training Institute-2021” titin the Assocham Knowledge Management Virtual Meet and Awards on Leadership Excellence. It was awarded the “Outstanding Contribution in Cabin Crew Training” award by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry in 2019. More recently, in January 2022, Frankfinn was awarded the “Best Institute in Placement” at the Assocham Education Excellence Summit cum Awards Ceremony.

Since its inception, TravWalky has grown exponentially, establishing itself as a leading player in the travel industry. The company’s commitment to providing personalized travel solutions, leveraging cutting-edge technology, and maintaining unparalleled service quality has set it apart in a highly competitive market.

“Celebrating six years is a momentous occasion for TravWalky. Our journey has been fueled by our unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional travel experiences and our passion for innovation ,” said Priyank Jain, Founder and Director of TravWalky. We are grateful to our clients, partners, and dedicated team members who have been instrumental in our success. As we look to the future, we remain committed to pushing boundaries and setting new standards in the travel trade industry.”

TravWalky has expanded its footprint globally, serving travelers from diverse regions and enhancing its network of trusted partners. The company has introduced state-of-the-art technology solutions to streamline travel planning, booking, and management processes, ensuring a seamless experience for clients. As TravWalky celebrates this milestone, it remains focused on its mission to revolutionize the travel industry through continuous innovation, exceptional service, and a customer-centric approach.

About TravWalky

TravWalky is a premier travel solutions provider, dedicated to delivering personalized and innovative travel experiences. Founded in 2018 by Priyank Jain, TravWalky has rapidly grown to become a trusted name in the travel trade industry, known for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. The company offers a wide range of services, including travel planning, booking, and management, catering to both individual travelers and corporate clients.

Quote by Priyank Jain, Founder and Director of TravWalky:
“Celebrating six years is a momentous occasion for TravWalky. Our journey has been fueled by our unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional travel experiences and our passion for innovation. We are grateful to our clients, partners, and dedicated team members who have been instrumental in our success. As we look to the future, we remain committed to pushing boundaries and setting new standards in the travel trade industry.”