SAFFRONS WORLD

Friday, April 26, 2024

THE LEELA PALACES, HOTELS AND RESORTS PRESENTS THE 6th EDITION OF THE HIGHLY ACCLAIMED ‘SHEFS AT THE LEELA’

THE LEELA PALACES, HOTELS AND RESORTS PRESENTS THE 6th EDITION OF THE HIGHLY ACCLAIMED ‘SHEFS AT THE LEELA’ INITIATIVE ALONG WITH DEAN WITH US

Celebrating the 6th edition of ‘Shefs at The Leela’ at The Leela Palace Bengaluru

Hyderabad, APRIL 25, 2024: The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts announces the return of 'Shefs at The Leela' to The Leela Palace Bengaluru for its sixth edition, completing a full circle since its inception in 2022. 'Shefs at The Leela' is a renowned culinary initiative in collaboration with 'Dean With Us' (Rupali Dean and Akanksha Dean), aiming to globally inspire, recognize, and empower female culinary talent. Scheduled on May 1st and 2nd, the event promises a showcase of culinary excellence, featuring renowned Indian women chefs—Radhika Khandelwal, Prerana Bandal, and Devika Kumari. Through panel discussions, interactive sessions, and culinary demonstrations, the event continues its legacy of promoting diversity in the culinary profession.

These Indian women chefs, renowned for their inventive culinary approaches and expertise, will craft an unforgettable dining experience with their distinctive dishes and culinary interpretations. On Day 1, Chef Radhika Khandelwal, Chef Prerana Bandal, and Chef Devika Kumari will unite for a panel discussion and engage with young culinary aspirants from hospitality universities, alongside lady associates from The Leela Palace Bengaluru and The Leela Bhartiya City. Day 2 will showcase the talents of Chefs Radhika, Prerana, and Devika as they present a menu infused with global flavors and aromas, each reflecting their signature style. The Leela Palace Bengaluru will curate this delightful evening, promising a symphony of tastes, cuisines, and cooking styles, weaving together a narrative of diverse backgrounds, experiences, and culinary wisdom.

Commenting on the occasion, Madhav Sehgal, Area Vice President - South India, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, said, “The Shefs At The Leela program is our commitment towards celebrating Indian women chefs and supporting young talent in our kitchens. I am thrilled that the program has travelled across India starting in Bengaluru, Jaipur, Gurgaon, Chennai, and now returns to Namma Bengaluru in its’ sixth edition. While these events highlight our steadfast commitment to promoting women accomplishments in culinary, the program in itself supports, incentivizes and motivates women who wish to pursue a career in culinary arts. Most importantly, it becomes a platform for budding talent to engage with celebrate with celebrated Shefs, who are role models for them.”

Shefs at The Leela embodies an initiative by The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts aimed at women globally, designed to attract and inspire female talent to pursue culinary careers. In collaboration with 'Dean With Us' (Rupali Dean and Akanksha Dean), the program not only acknowledges achievements but also fosters talent and cultivates a supportive community promoting diversity in kitchens. Over time, 'Shefs at The Leela' has transformed into a platform for talent development within the culinary profession. Showcasing a diverse repertoire of culinary talent led by women, the program has traversed the country, leaving its mark on The Leela properties including The Leela Ambience Gurugram Hotel and Residences, The Leela Chennai, The Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru, and The Leela Palace Jaipur.

Event Details: 6^th Edition of Shefs at The Leela

- Date: May 02, 2024

- Venue: The newly opened Maharaja Ballroom, The Leela Palace Bengaluru

- Price: INR 6,500 plus taxes per person

To reserve your experience or for more information, contact: Mobile: [+91 89519 74424], Email: [fnbsales.tlpb@theleela.com]

More about the Shefs

Chef Radhika Khandelwal

Chef and Owner, Radish Hospitality

Cuisine Focus: Zero waste, local produce, biodiversity

Radhika Khandelwal has steadily carved a formidable foundation for herself in the Zero Waste and Biodiversity movements through her restaurant, Fig & Maple, in New Delhi, India. From the early days of her culinary training, Radhika has championed food security by promoting biodiversity. Her kitchen is renowned for showcasing indigenous Indian ingredients such as Black chakhao rice, bok phool from West Bengal, lotus stems, and a wide variety of seasonal greens in her salads. Passionate about ensuring a secure food future and advocating for local, sustainable, and seasonal cooking, Khandelwal adopts a zero-waste approach by focusing on root-to-shoot cooking.

Radhika Khandelwal's culinary journey began in Melbourne, Australia, where she moved at the age of 17 to pursue a degree in Psychology. It was during her time working at a fine dining restaurant to support herself that she discovered her passion for cooking. Upon returning to India in 2013, she founded Radish Hospitality, under which she established Ivy and Bean in 2013 and Fig and Maple in 2016.

Fig and Maple serves as a platform to showcase India's vast indigenous biodiversity by utilizing local, seasonal, and lesser-known ingredients. Its inception marked the beginning of a sustainability movement that quickly gained traction across the city. As an advocate of sustainability and a member of the Chef’s Manifesto working towards fulfilling the objectives of SDG2 (Zero Hunger), Khandelwal launched a 45-day-long campaign titled “Be a #ZeroWasteHero,” raising awareness about hunger, biodiversity, climate change, and food waste.

As both a Chef and a food security activist, Radhika has represented India at prestigious events such as the World Economic Forum and the 75th UN General Assembly, World Chefs, and has been featured in eminent publications.

Chef Prerana Bandal

Head Chef at Amaya, Himachal Pradesh

Cuisine Focus: At Amaya, Prerana seamlessly integrates the abundance of its farm into each dish, eliminating the need for extensive explanations about their origins.

With over 10 years of experience at luxury brands, 5-star hotels, and boutique resorts, Chef Prerana Bandal possesses strong time and people-management skills. Her expertise extends to guest relations, menu planning, training, and development. Prerana finds passion in exploring new places and sharing her experiences. At Amaya, the essence of bespoke fragrances, crafted cocktails, and vibrant foraged salads converge under her skillful touch.

Amaya stands as a culinary sanctuary, offering a menu thoughtfully crafted with sustainable ethnic flair by Chef Prerana Bandal. Hailing from Maharashtra and recognized as a young culinary virtuoso, Prerana embarked on a solo biking expedition through her native region before making her mark at Amaya.

The cuisine at Amaya is distinctive, featuring ingredients exclusive to the restaurant such as fresh peas sourced directly from the expansive on-site vegetable garden. Additionally, the Emmer khapli wheat used in the delectable pot duck ragu originates from the farm in Nabha, Punjab.

Drawing inspiration from her Konkani Maharashtrian background, Prerana eloquently reflects that cooking embodies a personal narrative shaped by one's upbringing and life encounters.

Devika Kumar

Chef and Founder of Project Sweet Dish, Delhi

Cuisine Focus: Patisserie and Boulangerie

Chef Devika Kumar boasts an illustrious career spanning some of the country's finest kitchens. Her tenure leading the patisserie team at Le Cirque, New Delhi, and managing the bakery and pastry portfolio at the Oberoi, Gurgaon, from a young age, endowed her with invaluable expertise in the field. Collaborations with celebrated chefs like Jerome Le Tuff and Mike Bagale further fueled her journey, allowing her to cultivate a unique and exquisite style of baking.

Driven by her passion for bread-making and gourmet patisserie, Devika embarked on her entrepreneurial venture, founding Project Sweet Dish. With a vision to revolutionize the perception and consumption of bread and desserts in the country, Project Sweet Dish epitomizes Devika's commitment to innovation and high-quality standards. She endeavors to let her creations speak for themselves, continually honing her skills to deliver culinary excellence.

About The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts

Headquartered in Mumbai, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts is owned by a Brookfield Asset Management-sponsored private real estate fund and operates twelve award-winning properties in major cities and leisure destinations across India. These include the flagship hotel in the capital city of New Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Udaipur, Jaipur, Gurugram, East Delhi, Mumbai, Gandhinagar and now Kovalam and Ashtamudi in Kerala. The Leela celebrates each hotel through its unique location, art, culture and cuisine with thoughtful services, celebratory rituals, and immersive experiences. The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts was voted the World’s Best Hotel Brand twice in a row by Travel + Leisure, USA, World’s Best Awards Survey, 2020 and 2021. In 2023, the brand has once again been featured in the top 3 World’s Best Hotel Brands. An epitome of true Indian luxury hospitality, The Leela is committed to providing guests with unforgettable stays in settings that capture the essence of India. The brand has a marketing alliance with US-based Preferred Hotels & Resorts and is a member of the Global Hotel Alliance.

For more information, please visit our website www.theleela.com and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

THE CURATORS

AKANKSHA DEAN

Food & Travel writer and culinary researcher, Independent Chef & Events Specialist

https://www.instagram.com/deanakanksha/

Akanksha Dean, a trained hospitality professional hailing from the Institute of Hotel Management Aurangabad, holds the unique distinction of being the first and sole Indian chef to undergo training under the esteemed Massimo Bottura at Modena, Italy. Bottura, renowned for his three Michelin-starred Osteria Francescana, continues to be celebrated as the world’s premier chef. Through her extensive travels, which focused on local cuisine and cultural experiences, Akanksha has cultivated a distinctive perspective that reflects her appreciation for innovation and forward-thinking approaches. Notably, Akanksha was honoured with the coveted Magicka Award for her remarkable achievement as the ‘F & B Concept Curator of The Year’, with the ‘Shefs at The Leela’ project standing out as a notable accomplishment. Furthermore, she also received the prestigious ‘Culinary Event Curator of the Year Award’ from Food Food recently.

RUPALI DEAN

Award winning Journalist; Food & Travel Photographer; A Catalyst and an Events specialist.

https://www.instagram.com/rupalidean/

Awarded as the ‘Best food writer in the country’ by the Indian culinary forum, WACS and the ministry of Tourism, Rupali Dean is a familiar name in Travel & Food writing. With an ardent devotion to her craft, she embarks on captivating journeys within India and abroad, leaving an indelible mark on discerning readers through her published works in esteemed newspapers and magazines. Notably, Rupali has been the recipient of the coveted Magicka Award for ‘Top Food Influencer of The Year’. Furthermore, her unparalleled creativity and innovation in conceptualizing extraordinary gastronomic experiences led her to clinch the highly esteemed ‘Culinary Event Curator of the Year Award’ by Food Food in recent times.

The Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Status Now Extended To The Gem & Jewellery Sector: GJEPC

GEM AND JEWELLERY EXPORT PROMOTION COUNCIL

The Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Status Now Extended To The Gem & Jewellery Sector: GJEPC

National, 25^th April 2024: The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) is pleased to announce a significant milestone for the gem and jewellery industry in India. Following extensive efforts by the GJEPC in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) status is now being extended to the gem and jewellery sector. The AEO programe was introduced as piolet project in 2011 vide Circular No. 37/2011 – Customs dated 23^rd August. 2011.

The AEO program, a crucial part of the broader ease of doing business initiative, has been instrumental in simplifying export operations across various sectors, resulting in significant time and cost savings for exporters. Despite the benefits it offers, the gem & jewellery sector was initially denied participation in the AEO program.

However, through proactive engagement with relevant Ministries, the GJEPC successfully advocated for the inclusion of the gem and jewellery industry in the AEO program. Consequently, the Ministry of Finance has communicated that units within the gem and jewellery industry are now eligible to apply for participation in the AEO program, thereby enabling them to avail associated benefits.

In line with this development, the GJEPC recently conducted an informative Outreach Program focused on obtaining Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) status. The event, held on March 18, 2024, at the Bharat Diamond Bourse, brought together industry stakeholders eager to enhance international trade operations, strengthen supply chain security, and improve global competitiveness.

Encouragingly, 20 companies have already applied for AEO status. Based on these applications, as of now Asian Star, a premier diamond and diamond jewellery manufacturer has been granted AEO Status, making it the first in the Indian gem and jewellery industry to receive the certificate.

The GJEPC expresses its gratitude to the Government, particularly the Ministry of Finance, for considering the council’s request and bringing the gem and jewellery industry under the purview of the AEO program.

About The Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC)

The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), set up by the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India (GoI) in 1966, is one of several Export Promotion Councils (EPCs) launched by the Indian Government, to boost the country’s export thrust, when India’s post-Independence economy began making forays in the international markets. Since 1998, the GJEPC has been granted autonomous status. The GJEPC is the apex body of the gems & jewellery industry and today represents 10000+ members in the sector. With headquarters in Mumbai, GJEPC has Regional Offices in New Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, Surat and Jaipur, all of which are major centres for the industry. It thus has a wide reach and is able to have a closer interaction with members to serve them in a direct and more meaningful manner. Over the past decades, GJEPC has emerged as one of the most active EPCs and has continuously strived to both expand its reach and depth in its promotional activities as well as widen and increase services to its members.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/GJEPC
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gjepcindia
Youtube: www.youtube.com/gjepcindia
Twitter: www.twitter.com/GJEPCIndia

६ मे पासून पाहा सज्जनांसाठी देवी आणि दुर्जनांचा काळ ठरणारी ‘आदि शक्ती’ फक्त ‘सन मराठी’ वर

६ मे पासून पाहा सज्जनांसाठी देवी आणि दुर्जनांचा काळ ठरणारी

‘आदिशक्ती’ फक्त ‘सन मराठी’ वर

“सज्जनांसाठी देवी आणि दुर्जनांसाठी काळ, सहज नाही लागणार ह्या आदिशक्तीचा ठाव”, असं म्हणत ‘सन मराठी’ने नुकताच ‘आदिशक्ती' मालिकेचा नवा प्रोमो रिलीज केला आहे, ज्यामध्ये अभिनेता सुयश टिळक महत्त्वाच्या भूमिकेत दिसतोय. कोण कोणाच्या विरोधात उभं राहिल, कोण कोणाचा शत्रु बनेल हे कधीच कोणी सांगू शकत नाही आणि वडीलांची शत्रु स्वत: त्यांची मुलगी असेल तर काय... भितीने थरकाप उडेल अशी घटना चिमुकल्या जीवाशी घडणार असेल तर आईचं काळीज घाबरणारच... पण आई लेकीच्या संरक्षणासाठी आदिशक्तीकडे प्रार्थना करणार आणि तिच्या पाठीशी उभी राहणार दैवी शक्ती, हे या प्रोमोमधून दाखवण्यात आले आहे.

रोमांचक, थरारक, कथेशी खिळवून ठेवणारी कथा घेऊन ‘सन मराठी’ वाहिनी नव्या पध्दतीने प्रेक्षकांचे मनोरंजन करण्यासाठी पुन्हा सज्ज झाली आहे. दैवी शक्ती नेहमी चांगल्या कर्माच्या, माणसांच्या पाठीशी उभी असते हे या मालिकेतून अधोरेखित करण्यात आले आहे. तसेच सुयश टिळक, पल्लवी पाटील, सावी केळकर, अंबरिश देशपांडे, सुश्रुत आदी कलाकारांचा अभिनय अनुभवण्याची संधी प्रेक्षकांना मिळतेय. एकंदरीत ही नवी मालिका देखील प्रेक्षकांच्या घराघरांत आणि मनात हक्काचं स्थान निर्माण करणार हे नक्की.

नक्की पाहा ‘आदिशक्ती’ येत्या ६ मे पासून सोमवार ते शनिवार रात्री ८:३० वाजता फक्त सन मराठी वर.

दिग्दर्शक आणि अभिनेता रोहीत राव नरसिंगे यांच्या वाढदिवसानिमित्त ‘प्रेमम्’ या त्यांच्या आगामी सिनेमाचे पोस्टर प्रदर्शित

दिग्दर्शक आणि अभिनेता रोहीत राव नरसिंगे यांच्या वाढदिवसानिमित्त ‘प्रेमम्’ या त्यांच्या आगामी सिनेमाचे पोस्टर प्रदर्शित

एम आर जोकर एंटरटेनमेंट एल एल पी प्रस्तुत आणि गोल्डन स्ट्राईप्स एंटरटेनमेंट एल एल पी निर्मिति 'प्रेमम्’ सिनेमा येत्या २९ नोव्हेंबर २०२४ रोजी संपूर्ण महाराष्ट्रात प्रदर्शित होणार आहे. धर्म, जात यांच्या नावाखाली स्वतःसह दुसऱ्याच्याही आयुष्याची राखरांगोळी करणाऱ्या तरुणांच्या डोळ्यांत झणझणीत अंजन घालून त्यांना खऱ्या प्रेमाची ओळख करून देण्याचा प्रयत्न म्हणजे ‘प्रेमम्’ चित्रपट होय. भविष्यातील खरी ताकद असलेल्या तरुण पिढीचा डळमळीत होणारा आत्मविश्वास पुन्हा मिळवून देणारा परिपूर्ण फॅमिली एंटरटेनमेंट असलेला हा सिनेमा आहे. ‘प्रेमम्’ या सिनेमाचा पोस्टर लॉँच सोहळा नुकताच या सिनेमाचे दिग्दर्शक रोहित राव नरसिंगे यांच्या वाढदिवसा निमित्त पार पडला. नुकताच त्यांनी या सिनेमाचे पोस्टर सोशल मीडियावर शेअर केले आहे. या पोस्टरमध्ये अभिनेता रोहीत राव नरसिंगे आणि अभिनेत्री चैताली चव्हाण झळकले आहेत. या सिनेमाचे पोस्टर पाहता हा सिनेमा उत्कंठावर्धक असणार आहे याची प्रचिती होते.

अभिनेता - दिग्दर्शक रोहित राव नरसिंगे प्रेमम् या सिनेमाच्या पोस्टरविषयी सांगतात, “प्रेम म्हणजे नेमके काय आणि प्रेम विवाह म्हणजे काय यातील फरक दाखविण्याचा प्रयत्न या सिनेमातून दर्शविला जाईल. कॅप्टन फैरोज अन्वर माजगावकर, महादेव अशोक चाकणकर आणि आदित्य देशमुख यांची निर्मिती असलेल्या या सिनेमाचे दिग्दर्शन मी स्वतः केलं असून कथा, संवाद देखील मी केले आहेत. प्रथेप्रमाणे एखाद्या सिनेमाचा मुहूर्त सिनेक्षेत्रातील नामांकित मंडळी, राजकारणी अथवा इतर मान्यवरांच्या हस्ते केला जातो. मात्र या सिनेमाच्या टीमने अशा पारंपरिक प्रथेला बगल देत एक वेगळाच पायंडा पाडला आहे. ‘प्रेमम्’ सिनेमाच्या चित्रीकरणाचा मुहूर्त दिनांक १० जून २०२४ रोजी चालू होणार असून पहिल्यांदाच विजय सुखलाल चव्हाण यांच्या हस्ते नारळ वाढवून करण्यात येणार आहे.”

पुढे ते सांगतात, “अभिनेता रोहित राव नरसिंगे, साहिल कुम्मार, शशिकांत ठोसर,आणि अभिनेत्री चैताली विजय चव्हाण व केतकी पायगुडे हे कलाकार प्रमुख भूमिका करत असून, फैरोज अन्वर माजगवकर यांचा अभिनय देखील सिनेमात पाहायला मिळणार आहे. गीतकार डॉ. विनायक पवार,यांच्या लेखणीतून सजलेल्या गाण्यांना सनी - सुशांत यांनी संगीत दिलं आहे. गायक अरिजित सिंग, श्रेया घोषाल,जावेद अली या सारख्या गायकांच्या विविधांगी आवाजांचा स्वरसाज सिनेमातील गाण्यांना चढला जाऊ शकतो. बाल कलाकार आदिन माजगवकर यांच्या खुमासदार अभिनयाची झलक यातून पाहायला मिळणार आहे. या सिनेमाच्या निमित्ताने २९ नोव्हेंबर पासून महाराष्ट्रात 'प्रेमम्' ची लाट लागू होणार आहे, असे म्हटल्यास वावगे ठरणार नाही.”

Wednesday, April 24, 2024

First ever K-Pop and Assamese collab where Aoora has featured and sung Bihu song

First ever K-Pop and Assamese collab where Aoora has featured and sung Bihu song titled “Oi Nasoni” along side famous Assamese singer and composer Nilotpal Bora

Distinguished K-pop virtuoso, Aoora, transcends cultural boundaries with his groundbreaking collaboration, "Oi Nasoni," marking his triumphant entry into the vibrant world of Assamese music. Teaming up with the illustrious Nilotpal Bora who has composed the song, Aoora delivers an ethereal fusion of Korean and Assamese melodies, igniting the hearts of listeners worldwide.

Aoora, known for his unparalleled artistry, not only lends his mesmerizing vocals to the Korean segment but also crafts a lyrical masterpiece that resonates with the soul along with featuring in the song. His dedication to bridging cultural divides shines through in every note, reaffirming his status as a trailblazer in the global music scene.

Indeed, Aoora's becomes the first artist to seamlessly integrate Korean and Assamese languages in a musical masterpiece. ”This collaboration is a celebration of diversity and harmony," says Aoora "Through 'Oi Nasoni,' we aim to showcase the beauty of cultural exchange and create a musical experience that knows no bounds”

Watch the song here- https://youtu.be/rlTMGGqcUfU

TV’s Atal celebrates a milestone of 100 Episodes!

TV’s Atal celebrates a milestone of 100 Episodes!

It's time for celebration for &TV's Atal as the show completes its 100th episode milestone! Launched in December 2023, the show's storyline is set against British colonial rule in India, offering insights into the formative years of former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's life. To mark this achievement, the stellar cast comprising Neha Joshi (Krishna Devi Vajpayee), Vyom Thakkar (Young Atal), Ashutosh Kulkarni (Krishan Bihari Vajpayee), Milind Dastane (Shyam Lal Vajpayee), Prachittee Ahhirrao (Vimla), among others, gathered to commemorate this joyous occasion and reflect on their remarkable journey through 100 episodes. Sharing her joy on the 100-episode completion, Neha Joshi, essaying Krishna Devi Vajpayee, says, “Completing the 100-episode mark is a big moment for us, and we are quite excited. First, thank our audience for this unwavering love and support for the show. And not to forget my co-stars and the dedicated crew behind the scenes, whose seamless coordination and hard work made it all possible. This journey has afforded me countless opportunities to delve into a spectrum of emotions as an actor, and reaching this milestone fills me with gratitude. The outpouring of affection from our audience is heartening and serves as a driving force for each of us. Recently, during our visit to Ram Mandir in Ayodhya to seek blessings for our show's success and celebrate Ram Navami, we were humbled by the overwhelming love of our fans, who expressed their adoration for the show and its characters. We marked this celebration with our 'Atal' team on set, reflecting on the shared experiences that have shaped our journey together.” Vyom Thakkar, essaying Young Atal, says, “This is such a special moment for all of us! I am so happy that we have completed 100 episodes. It has been a wonderful journey, and we have become like an extended family. Congratulations to everyone for this incredible achievement!” Ashutosh Kulkarni, essaying Krishan Bihari Vajpayee, says, “My journey with Atal has been incredible. The warmth and appreciation from our audience towards my character bring me immense happiness. I consistently receive messages expressing their appreciation of our show and the characters. The collective effort of our dedicated team has made the show a success, and reaching the milestone of 100 episodes is a big moment for us. Heartiest Congratulations to everyone. We marked this special occasion with a joyful cake-cutting ceremony. Here’s to more such milestones to come!”

Watch Atal at 8:00 pm, airing every Monday to Friday only on &TV!

GJEPC’s International Buyer Seller Meet Held at the Iconic Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC SEEPZ for the First Time Ever

GJEPC’s International Buyer Seller Meet Held at the Iconic Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC SEEPZ for the First Time Ever

· Global buyers from the U.S, Latin America and Oceania, enamoured by ‘Make in India’ Designer Jewellery

· International buyers hail India as a hub for fashion-forward & bespoke jewellery

National, 23^rd April 2024: The Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council of India (GJEPC), the apex trade organization dedicated to promoting Indian gem and jewellery exports worldwide, organised the International Gem and Jewellery Buyer Seller Meet (BSM) the first ever at the newly inaugurated Bharat Ratnam, Mega CFC SEEPZ in Mumbai. This event is specifically designed to cater to international buyers from the U.S., Latin America (Argentina, Brazil), Oceania, Australia, Dubai, Italy, Lebanon, South Africa and Uzbekistan; comprising a total of 33 international buyers from 25 companies.

Present on the occasion were: Mr. Ranjit Rawool, Senior Authorised Officer (SEEPZ); Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. Colin Shah, Head - Working Group, Bharat Ratnam - Mega CFC; and Shri Sabyasachi Ray, ED, GJEPC.

The iconic Mega CFC SEEPZ provided international standard facilities for the diverse groups including key stakeholders from various sectors of the diamond industry, large chain retailers, wholesalers, importers, top designers, distributors, and retail jewellers from around the world.

Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC, said, “The first ever International BSM meet at Mega CFC promotes India as a hub for ‘Make in India’ jewellery and showcases our technological advancements. Through the Buyer Seller Meets (BSM), Indian gem and jewellery manufacturers presented an extensive array/ variety in offerings, which incorporated ‘Finished diamond jewellery and loose diamonds’ from India. The BSMs reinforce India’s positioning as the primary source for quality jewellery that is on-trend, fashion-forward, and margin-friendly especially for bespoke jewellery. This BSM event showcased a comprehensive view of the Indian jewellery industry, covering both the production and supply side for the International consumer retail business.”

Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman of GJEPC, said, "Today marks a historic milestone for India's gem & jewellery industry, as we gather here at the Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC, SEEPZ, Mumbai, for the first ever show to be held since its inauguration. This exclusive gem and jewellery Buyer Seller Meet (BSM) will facilitate meaningful engagement between exhibitors and international buyers. Indian gem and jewellery industry is taking all efforts to enhance its trade relationship with buyers across the world. Indian Govt. has taken several steps and initiatives towards achieving gem and jewellery exports targets and the FTAs and Bharat Ratnam, Mega CFC are significant initiatives in this direction.”

Mr. Colin Shah, Head - Working Group, Bharat Ratnam - Mega CFC, and past Chairman, GJEPC, said, “The first ever Buyer Seller Meet (BSM) at Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC is a proud moment for all SEEPZ jewellery exporters and we have all participated whole-heartedly to make it a grand success. Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC is truly a unique initiative taken by India and you will not find it anywhere else in the world. It has several facilities such as the 3D Printing facility, which is the first in Asia. This BSM Meet has something for everyone and it will help international buyers to do more business in India.”

Mr. Theodore M. Pizanis from Janu Gems Inc., California-based wholesaler in business for over 3 decades, said, "India is a good sourcing hub for ruby, tanzanite, emerald, big tourmalines and sapphire among precious stones; and facetted and cabochon coloured stones. I find Indian manufacturers to be knowledgeable and at the cutting edge of business and technology in whatever they do. I admire their craftsmanship and expertise in setting small diamonds in jewellery."

Ms. Melinda Kavanaugh from Lindy's Inc. said, "I have been dealing in everyday wearable jewellery since 25 years. India is a good sourcing destination for natural diamond and gemstone jewellery, and I have been dealing with Indian vendors for a long time and highly appreciate their willingness to customise products specially for my clients, who prefer not so flashy jewellery. I appreciate the mix of jewellery available at this BSM event. Indian jewellers are very good at customizing jewellery; especially in terms of a quick turnaround. I am very fascinated by Bharat Ratnam Mega CFC Concept and looking forward to the tour of all facilities in one building."

Judith Fisher, Senior Vice President – Merchandising at Reeds Jewelers said “Indian manufacturers have made tremendous headway in honing their manufacturing skills by investing in technology and innovation. Even the designs are more in alignment with global aesthetics." She praised Indian manufacturers, saying, "they are hungry for knowledge and are invested in understanding their customers. As for trends, Judith adds," Yellow gold with high polish has made a massive comeback in the US, and today’s generation is keen on personalizing their jewellery."

Shaheer Hosh from Cristino Fine Jewelry, U.S., said, "In America, customers continue to prefer natural diamonds for key celebratory milestones such as engagements, anniversaries and weddings. Indian jewellery adds a distinct touch to jewellery with gemstones and coloured diamonds. It is exciting to come to India and witness how Indian manufacturers keep evolving to the next level."

Jill Borgerding Jillian Samuels Jewelry said, "This is my first visit to India and I am truly enamoured by the colours, designs and patterns. Indian exporters are customer-centric and it is easy to do business with them and make them to adapt to the requirements of the Western market." Speaking about the BSM venue, Bharat Ratnam - Mega CFC, she said that it's an impressive complex, with multifold benefits, especially for small and medium jewellery exporters.”

The BSM followed a structured Buyer Seller Meet format, featuring pre-scheduled one-on-one meetings lasting approximately 30 to 40 minutes between buyers and sellers during the two day meet.

The United States holds immense significance for the Indian gem and jewellery industry. Notably, cut and polished diamonds account for a substantial portion of these exports. India's pivotal role in the global gem and jewellery supply chain have created deep-rooted ties between the two nations. GJEPC has further lined up events aimed at providing Indian gem and jewellery manufacturers with global exposure in the near future.