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  • Alkesh Sharma to a high-level panel on the Internet and digital governance

    Alkesh Sharma to a high-level panel on the Internet and digital governance

    Mr. Alkesh Kumar Sharma, Senior bureaucrat and Electronics and Information Technology Secretary has been appointed to the inaugural Internet Governance Forum (IGF) Leadership Panel by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in a significant recognition of India’s growing prowess in digital governance and new-age technologies.

    Mr. Sharma, a 1990 batch Kerala cadre IAS officer from Rajasthan and a former Secretary in the Cabinet Secretariat, is among the panel of ten distinguished experts hailing from all regions of the globe on digital governance, which includes Nobel Prize-winning journalist Maria Reesa, and digital expert Vint Cerf.

    The Panel also consists of five ex-officiomembers, and they include Mr. Amandeep Singh Gill, the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology.

    The members have been appointed for a two-year term during the 2022–23 IGF cycles, the UN said. 

    Launched as part of the recommendations in Mr. Guterres’ Roadmap for Digital Cooperation, the Leadership Panel has the mandate to deal with ‘strategic and urgent issues of the internet. It also provides strategic advice to the IGF, which strives to bring people together from various stakeholder groups as equals on policy issues relating to the internet in both the public and private sectors.

    In his illustrious career, Mr. Sharma has also served a stint with the UN Development Programme (UNDP) as the national project director for Urban Development and Poverty Alleviation. Earlier, he was CEO and Managing Director of Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor Development Corporation (DMICDC) and had additional charge as the Member Secretary and CEO of the National Industrial Corridor Development & Implementation Trust (NICDIT), the apex body formed to oversee the development of all industrial corridors across the country.

    His other assignments included as Joint Secretary, Union Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, Director of Kerala Tourism (2001 to 2004), Managing Director of Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (2009-2012), Joint Secretary, Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (2012-2015), Managing Director of Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (2019-2021), and Director in Bharat Petroleum, Keltron, Western India Plywoods, Apollo Tyres, Geojit BNP Paribas Financial Services, and Indian Rare Earths Ltd.

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  • Vagamon Familiarisation trip

    Vagamon Familiarisation trip

    As part of the destination promotion,  a familiarisation trip was organised by the  Vagamon Resorts Owners Association  &  Vagamon Destination Makers Association at Vagamon from 30th August to 1st September. Twenty-one tour operators from Tamilnadu participated in the event.

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  • Escape to the flavors of the mighty Himalayas at Indore Marriott Hotel

    Escape to the flavors of the mighty Himalayas at Indore Marriott Hotel

    Bringing the cuisine of the mighty Himalayas to Indore, Indore Marriott Hotel hosts the Himalayan Trail Food Festival starting from the 2nd of September 2022 to the 11th of September 2022. The rich spread put together by Executive Chef, Shiv Parvesh and his team is set to transport you to the mountains. 

    Celebrating the rich culinary heritage of the Himalayas, the wide-ranging menu will feature traditional delicacies from the region of Himachal and dishes from Uttarakhand and Kashmir. The menu includes Kullu Trout Masala, Seppu Vadi, Swale, Fanu, Arse, Chane ka Madra, Chaa Gosht, and Pahadi Murgh among other preparations. Desserts like Bal Mithai will be the right end to the delicious meal.

    Talking about the Food Festival, Executive Chef, Shiv Parvesh, Indore Marriott Hotel said, “The heavenly Himalayan cuisine is so richly packed with nutritional values. My team and I at Indore Marriott Hotel have put together this Himalayan spread while keeping each ingredient intact to its core to retain its nutritional content. The menu focuses on the signature dishes from the region so that the guests can experience the culinary marvels that the mountains have to offer.”

    The restaurant will also be decked-up in traditional décor along with Himachali folk music to set the tone right for the regal dinner.

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  • Onam -A joyous annual nostalgia

    Onam -A joyous annual nostalgia

    Onam, the biggest festival of Kerala originated as a joyous annual nostalgia for the golden reign of King Mahabali, a mythical king, who ruled Kerala for a very long time. The celebration which lasts for ten days is not just a festival to the Keralites and falls during the first month of the Malayalam calendar which is Chingam.

    Onathappan

    It reflects the faith of the people in Kerala- a belief in the legendary past, religion, and power of worship. Onam is unique since king Maveli is revered by the people of Kerala from prehistory. Onam welcomes the spirit of a great king and assures him that his people are happy and wish him well. According to the legend, Kerala witnessed its golden era during the reign of King Mahabali when everybody in the state was happy and prosperous. This meant that the king was highly regarded by his subjects and it was this that even the Gods under Indra became jealous of. They approached Mahavishnu claiming that Mahabali is now equivalent to an Indra and because a world with two Indras represents imbalance, Mahavishnu assumed the form of a bhramin dwarf: the Vamana avatar, and tricked him to Pathalam, the Underworld where he was granted the rule the underworld and by the grace of Mahavishnu, Mahabali was granted another wish to visit his people on an annual basis. Mahavishnu serves Mahabali as a gatekeeper in the world of Pathalam as the Lord himself serves his greatest devotees.

    This can’t just be called history, because the whole of Kerala still celebrates Onam just like in the olden days. Although this festival has its origin in Hindu mythology, Onam is for all people of all classes, creeds, and religions. Hindus, Muslims, Christians, the wealthy, and the downtrodden, all celebrate Onam with equal fervor. The secular character of Onam is peculiar to this land where unity had always coexisted with diversity, especially during festivals, when people come together to celebrate life’s unlimited joys.

    Traditional Onam sadya served in banana leaf

    “Pookalam” also known as the floral carpet, is laid in front of every house to welcome the advent of the vanquished king, and earthen mounds representing Mahabali and Vishnu are placed in the dung-plastered courtyards. The most important things about Onam are the Onakkodi, the new clothes worn on this day, and Ona- Sadya, a feast which is quite elaborate and sumptuous home-cooked delicacies on plantain leaf and the lingering aroma of the sweet Payasam. Thinking of Onam these are the thoughts that strike every single Malayali. And so all this adds to the synonyms of Onam.

    One of the most wonderful façades of Onam is the unfolding of its rich and well-established culture. Known as the Malayalam New Year, Kerala is seen as its personified beauty at this time. The celebrations of Onam start on Atham, followed by Chithira, Chothi , Vishakam, Anizham, Thriketa, Moolam, Pooradam, Uthradom, and last but not least Thiruvonam.Each of these has its own significance and activities Normally Onam celebrations end by Thiruonam. However, two following days after Thiruvonam is also celebrated as Third and Fourth Onam, which are called Avvittom and Chathayam . Avvittom marks the preparations of King Mahabali for his ascension to the heavens. The main ritual for the day is to take the Onattappan statute placed in the middle of Pookalam for the past 10 days and immense in nearby rivers or seas. The Pookkalam will be cleaned and removed and marks the finale of the Onam celebrations

    Chathayam day is also important, as it marks the great dance of lions, known as Puli Kali where men in costumes of lions. Chathayam marks the birthday of one of the famous social reformers of Kerala, Sree Narayana Guru, and is celebrated as Narayana Jayanthi in his honour. The official government Onam celebrations end on this day in the capital city-Thiruvananthapuram.

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  • A Soulful, Sunday Brunch at JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resorts & Spa

    A Soulful, Sunday Brunch at JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resorts & Spa

    JW Marriott Bengaluru Prestige Golfshire Resorts & Spa, the opulent resort is all set to cater to your Sunday needs with their new premier Sunday Brunch from 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm. The perfect Sunday brunch was recently launched at ‘The Aviary’, an outlet ideal for both a quick getaway and a long refreshing escape, where one can sit back and enjoy a soulful bird-watching experience with an expansive, panoramic view of the Nandi hills. This surreal view adds to the extraordinary experience created with a variety of exceptionally curated dishes and beverages.

    The soothing surroundings that captivate the mind, body, and spirit, ensure that the guests feel at their best while enjoying not just a brunch, but a distinguished experience. Catering to your cravings with an eclectic mix of tastes and palates with an expansive buffet with live counters, a free flow of premium pours, along with a dedicated kid’s zone for parents to drop their kids and groove to the beats of the DJ or the live band.

    With fun activities to keep kids engaged, such as the Bouncy Castle, Balloon Maker, an Ice-Gola counter, Cotton Candy, Popcorn counter, Tattoo, and caricature, and a Kid’s Play Zone are sure to keep the young tots entertained. Furthermore, access to the pool with floaties, and a swim-up bar will be one of the highlights of the brunch.

    Savour delightful delicacies at one of the city’s most exotic Sunday brunch, where you may choose from a theater of gourmet dishes with a thrust towards conscientious and mindful eating, with myriad brunch options.

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  • Onam Sadhya at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel

    Onam Sadhya at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel

    The harvest festival of Onam celebrates the annual return of the benevolent King Mahabali to his kingdom of Kerala. Celebrated with fervor every year, Lush, the all-day dining restaurant at Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel is the destination where you can meet the Kerala cuisine in Karnataka this Onam.

    Food is one of the greatest things in Indian culture and festivals, Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel, brings this cuisine from the god’s own country to those who appreciate delicious home-cooked food. The hotel welcomes guests to take part in a gastronomic adventure inspired by the flavours of Kerala with its exclusive Onam Sadya Special spread.

     Onamsadhya’s culinary splendour crafted by Executive Chef Neeraj and his culinary team is without a doubt the most notable feature, with traditional dishes like Kaaya varuthatha (banana chips), chena varuthatha (yam chips), sarkara upperi (Jaggery coated banana chips), mango pickle, lime pickle, pullingi (tamarind & ginger chutney), kichadi (Gourd in mildly spiced yoghurt), pachadi (Pineapple in yoghurt) , Olan ( ash gourd with black beans in a coconut milk gravy), stir-fried vegetables with grated coconut, theeyal (mixed vegetable gravy), Erissery (mashed beans and pumpkin with coconut gravy), Avial, Puliserry (yogurt based curry), Kootu Curry (black chickpeas curry), Sambar, Rasam, Spicy Buttermilk, Bananas, Papad and of course boiled rice.

    For the ones who would like to celebrate the festival in the comfort of their homes with friends and family, Renaissance has made sure you don’t miss this traditional feast at all. Order the special Onasadhya online with MBOW with Chef’s choice Onam menu and indulge in feastivities!  Also, you can dine and earn if you are a Marriott Bonvoymember and avail R&B points.

    For a traditional Onam Sadya, make a reservation at ‘LUSH’ with friends and family or order online via Swiggy or Zomato, or Direct order on MBOW!

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  • JETSTAR AND INDIGO PARTNERSHIP GO LIVE

    JETSTAR AND INDIGO PARTNERSHIP GO LIVE

    As demand for air travel continues to recover, Jetstar customers looking for low-cost travel options can now access IndiGo’s low fares from Jetstar’s hub in Singapore to key Indian destinations including  Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi, and Tiruchirappalli via jetstar.com.

    Jetstar Connect is an integrated booking system that allows passengers to select flights, buy bundled and unbundled ancillary products such as baggage and seats, and enjoy seamless connectivity between international flights.

    Mr. Poh Tiong Seng  Jetstar Asia Commercial Lead, said  “Today’s announcement is a significant milestone for Jetstar as we continue to expand our network via Singapore’s Changi Airport through our partnership with IndiGo.  “Jetstar Connect allows us to offer our customers more exciting opportunities to travel and more  great value fares all at the click of a button, making travel even more accessible.”

    Mr.Sanjay Kumar, Chief Strategy and Revenue Officer, IndiGo said   “This strategic agreement will enable both airlines to tap into the rising demand for international travel, with the upcoming festive season.  “The partnership will enable customers to enjoy seamless connectivity between Jetstar and IndiGo and access to a wide variety of destinations across the Asia Pacific. This partnership will also help us to expand our international connectivity to yet another continent through Jetstar’s network.

    “We look forward to having Jetstar’s customers on our lean clean flying machine, as we extend to them our on-time, affordable, courteous, and hassle-free travel experience.” Jetstar Asia currently operates services to 11 destinations in Southeast Asia. More details are available on our travel alerts.

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  • IBS Software partners with Brunei Shell Petroleum Co.

    IBS Software partners with Brunei Shell Petroleum Co.

    Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP) has announced a partnership with IBS Software to deploy the full suite of IBS’ next-generation cloud-based personnel logistics and accommodation technology platform – iLogistics.

    This partnership will enable BSP to transform end-to-end people logistics operations of close to 35,000 monthly passenger movements by helicopters, boats, ground, and Personnel On Board (POB) accommodations at over 200 offshore installations in the South China Sea.

    This integration of iLogistics technology platform solutions will power BSP to optimize logistics spending, reduce logistics emissions, improve operational safety, ensure offshore travel compliance, and provide end-to-end people supply chain visibility. 

    iLogistics cloud technology will further accelerate BSP’s digital transformation journey focused on delivering business value, reducing IT spending, ing and building a collaborative eco-system of suppliers and service providers. The software will also support BSP with its worldwide strategic initiatives, upholding its Safety-First culture and maintaining its relentless focus on Goal Zero. 

    This new partnership builds upon the long-time relationship between Shell and IBS Software, working closely on logistics technology innovations including the successful deployment of iLogistics Check-In App in 2021, which enables real-time personnel tracking using RFID technology.

    Remasankar Sivasankaran Nair, Vice President of Energy & Resources Logistics, IBS Software comments “iLogistics is helping energy customers to accelerate upstream supply chain decarbonization and overcome offshore logistics challenges while reducing logistics spend, improving personnel safety, and minimizing logistics emissions. We are proud to partner with BSP to accelerate the logistics digital transformation and help Shell achieve its business goals.”

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  • Sheraton Grand Palace Indore appoints Karam Dogra as  Executive Chef

    Sheraton Grand Palace Indore appoints Karam Dogra as Executive Chef

    Sheraton Grand Palace Indore has announced the recent appointment of Karam Dogra as the Executive Chef of the property. In his new role, he will be responsible for planning, supervising, and managing the kitchen operations including procurement and maintenance of inventory for smooth functioning of all operations.

    Prior to joining Sheraton Grand Palace Indore, Karam was associated with Dyota Hospitality, Delhi as the Director of Operations. With over 20 years of experience, he has worked his way through the culinary discipline holding various positions across leading brands such as ITC, Radisson, Hilton, and Shangri-la. A skilled culinary professional, Chef Karam specializes in Continental as well as Indian Progressive cuisine and brings strong interpersonal skills and creative thinking. 

    Commenting on his appointment chef Karam Dogra said, “I am elated to be associated with Sheraton Grand Palace Indore and eagerly look forward to giving my best to enhance and improve the overall guest dining experience at the property.”

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  • Mammoth Lakes

    Mammoth Lakes

    Mammoth Lakes is a perfectly situated springboard to the ultimate in sightseeing adventures in summer. A national park, national monument, state parks, an official ghost town, and the world’s oldest trees are all within easy reach for amazing day trips. See the region’s most unbelievable natural and historic site on a three-day trip to Mammoth Lakes and the Eastern Sierra.

    The Yosemite Valley at Sunset, as seen from Tunnel View – panorama.

    YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

    No trip to California would be complete without visiting Yosemite National Park which is known for its deep valleys containing some of the world’s tallest waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, and wild meadows. Yosemite’s eastern entrance is just 45 minutes from Mammoth Lakes and together they make a great pairing on any outdoor enthusiast’s itinerary.

    To get there from Mammoth Lakes during summer and fall, take the Tioga Pass State Highway 120 to the eastern gate into Yosemite National Park. Or take Yosemite Area Regional Transit (YARTS) which offers transportation for visitors who would prefer to travel by bus from outlying communities into Yosemite Valley rather than drive themselves.

    AN ANCIENT LAKE & GOLD RUSH HISTORY

    Over a million years old and covering nearly 105 square miles, Mono Lake, is situated just north of Mammoth Lakes. Mono Lake is a sightseer’s fairy tale, a nature lover’s dream, and an outdoor adventurer’s mecca. Whether launching kayaks through the tufa towers of Navy Beach or meandering along the boardwalks of the South Tufa Area during an evening sunset, there is a way for everyone to explore this unique area.

    Just 11.8 miles north you’ll reach the weathered buildings of Bodie State Historic Park, California’s official ghost town and the largest unrestored ghost town in the West. Back in Mammoth Lakes, you can explore additional mining history at the Mammoth Consolidated Gold Mine in the Mammoth Lakes Basin or at the Hayden Cabin Museum on the bank of Mammoth Creek.

    REDS MEADOW

    Catch the scenic shuttle from Mammoth Adventure Center to Reds Meadow (no private vehicles allowed), where you’ll find Devils Postpile National Monument and the 101-foot Rainbow Falls. Hike along the San Joaquin River to see the unique rock formation. Then, continue on the easy 2-mile hike downstream to Rainbow Falls, named for the colorful rainbows reflected in the mist by the midday sun.

    Wrap up your adventure with lunch at the Mule House Café at Reds Meadow Resort before catching the shuttle back to Mammoth Lakes. When you’re back at the Mammoth Adventure Center, take a ride on the Scenic Gondola to the summit of Mammoth Mountain and admire the views from 11,053 feet.

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