Latest news with #TajMahalPalace
Yahoo
08-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
The 8th WeddingSutra Influencer Awards to be held on August 20 at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai
MUMBAI, India, Aug. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- WeddingSutra is all set to host the eighth edition of the WeddingSutra Influencer Awards on August 20, 2025, at the iconic Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai. The awards honour the creative forces driving India's ever-evolving wedding industry. From heartfelt moments and gourmet feasts to dazzling sangeet performances and immersive décor, every detail in Indian weddings is brought to life by a community of talented professionals who juggle tight deadlines with the need for constant innovation. These awards aim to recognise the unsung heroes powering the celebrations and shaping the industry with their innovation, excellence, and passion. The distinguished jury panel is led by Priya Tanna (President of The Right Side) and includes Ashish Bhasin (Founder of The Bhasin Consulting Group and former CEO, APAC, Dentsu), Digvijay Singh Kathiwada (Director, House of Kathiwada), Himani Rajiv Shah (Lifestyle and beauty influencer), Iqbal Khan (Actor), Karen Anand (Food Writer, Restaurant Consultant, and Chef), Khushnaz Turner (Luxury Lifestyle Influencer), Raaj Sanghvi (CEO, Culinary Culture & Co-founder, Sanguine & Caviar Noir), Rahul Jagtiani (Entrepreneur & Founder, Plush Ventures), Rashmi Uday Singh (Food Writer, TV Host, and Author), Renu Oberoi (Jewellery designer), Riyhad Kundanmal (Architect, Entrepreneur, and Founder, KaRRS Designs & Developments), Vaishali Banerjee (Managing Director, India, Platinum Guild International), and Vivek Dhadha (Luxury Lifestyle Influencer). With their diverse expertise across fashion, advertising, media, and entertainment, the jury will evaluate the entries based on creativity, impact, and industry influence. This year saw an outstanding response, with over 5,000 submissions across 27 categories, representing the full spectrum of wedding expertise. The upcoming event will be co-hosted by the IHCL Group and uniting standout names across the wedding landscape for an evening of celebration and recognition. Parthip Thyagarajan, Co-founder and CEO of says, "India's wedding ecosystem thrives on creative collaboration. These awards are a way to celebrate the work of those who are constantly pushing the envelope, offer a platform for discovery, and encourage new avenues for collaboration and growth." About WeddingSutra Launched in 2000, is today India's leading wedding media platform, connecting couples and families with some of the finest professionals in the industry, ranging from planners, caterers, photographers to entertainers and more, to help them curate unforgettable celebrations. Photo: View original content to download multimedia:
Daily News Egypt
12-07-2025
- Business
- Daily News Egypt
The Old Ministries District Is Cairo's Next Big Bet – But Only If We Get the Vision Right
With state institutions relocating to the New Administrative Capital and the government signalling its intent to repurpose the old ministries district, Downtown Cairo is at a pivotal crossroads. The question is no longer whether this historic core will be redeveloped – but how, for whom, and to what end. The area – once the nerve center of Egypt's bureaucratic machinery – is a rare urban gem. It's not only centrally located and steeped in history, but unlike most parts of Cairo, it comprises a full block with clear boundaries and planning potential. This alone presents an enormous advantage: a chance to implement a unified, curated vision without the complications of fragmented ownership or conflicting land use. But what we choose to build here will determine whether this becomes another formulaic real estate project, or a truly transformative district that redefines urban tourism and cultural life in Cairo. Hospitality with heritage at its heart The district's architectural fabric, which is a mix of grand historic buildings and more modern structures, offers a perfect opportunity for heritage-driven hospitality development. We've seen this model succeed globally: from the Taj Mahal Palace (hotel) in Mumbai to the Cairo Marriott in Zamalek. In both cases, older heritage buildings were integrated with modern infrastructure to create iconic destinations. This lies at the heart of what Al Ismaelia for Real Estate Development has been executing ever since it was founded 2008. In the ministries district, a similar approach could produce landmark boutique hotels and luxury accommodations. And there is ample space for fine dining, cultural venues, and high-quality retail. But here's the catch: what's on offer must be Egyptian. Not a standard tourist product, but an Egyptian contemporary product reflecting modern Egyptian identity with an authentic flavor. Tourists don't want replicas. They want real. Cairo's city centre is fast becoming a magnet for cultural tourists. They're not coming here to shop global brands they already know. There is an undeniably strong trend among younger generations toward immersive, culturally authentic experiences and local brands, driven by a desire for genuine connections with destinations. Sustainable Travel Research Report (2023) noted that 75% of survey respondents seek authentic experiences representative of local culture. A Trip Advisor survey in 2024 involving 4000 travellers revealed that 84% consider purchasing from local retail or food brands, with 90% of Millenials and Gen Z indicating a preference for authentic local products. Tourists are coming to feel something. To explore Egyptian creativity, try Egyptian food, meet Egyptian makers. And the good news is: Those makers are already here. We're seeing a new generation of local chefs, fashion designers, gallery owners, and entrepreneurs staking their claim in Downtown Cairo. These aren't copy-paste franchises or rebranded imports. They're contemporary, authentic, and rooted in place. The ministries district should embrace and accelerate this movement. If developed with this ethos, it could become the launchpad for Egypt's next wave of creative entrepreneurs, while offering tourists a living, walkable, locally immersive experience. A complementary vision for Cairo's core At Al Ismaelia, we see the ministries district and Downtown Cairo as two sides of the same opportunity. The former is perfect for larger-format hotels and serene urban design. The latter is already emerging as the cultural engine, full of energy, expression, and local flavor. Together, they can create a seamless ecosystem for tourism, commerce, and city life. And it's already happening. Our work in Downtown has shown that adaptive reuse of heritage buildings is not only viable, but profitable – and add to that, it's changing investor perceptions. What was once seen as risky or impractical is now being understood as Egypt's untapped edge: A real estate model that combines history, authenticity, and modern demand. If the ministries district follows this path, it could become a blueprint for similar projects across Egypt, in Alexandria, Port Said, and other cities rich with legacy and potential. The real differentiator: local ideas, not imported concepts I cannot stress this enough: What will make the ministries district and Downtown Cairo truly stand out is a bold commitment to contemporary Egyptian brands and experiences. That applies to everything: Hotels, restaurants, clothing stores, household items, performance venues, coworking spaces, bookstores, and beyond. Cheesy souvenir shops or local brands that mimic foreign trends are definitely not the way to go. The focus should be on original concepts that carry a modern Egyptian identity and truly, from the heart, reflect who we are today. If we get that right, we will redevelop a district by redefining Cairo for the next generation, and remind the world that this city has always been, and still is, a cultural capital worth discovering. Cairo is not only about the past but it is equally about the present and the future. By Karim Shafei Chairman & CEO, Al Ismaelia for Real Estate Investment
Time of India
19-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Jamsetji Tata's death anniversary: Here's why he built the iconic Taj Hotel - A story of sweet revenge and pride
Revenge story of Jamsetji Tata: On the occasion of Jamsetji Tata's death anniversary, the nation remembers the man who laid the foundation for India's industrial revolution. From starting India's first steel company to creating the Taj Hotel, Jamsetji Tata was more than just a businessman – he was a visionary who changed the face of India. Let's take a look at how Jamsetji Tata turned a personal insult into an iconic hotel that still stands tall as a symbol of Indian pride. Who Was Jamsetji Tata? Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata, also known as JN Tata, was born on 3 March 1839 in Navsari, Gujarat. He was the only son of Nusserwanji Tata. At the young age of 14, Jamsetji began helping in his father's small trading business. He received a Western-style education and later graduated from Elphinstone College in Mumbai in 1858. After working with his father for several years, Jamsetji decided to start his own trading firm in 1868 at the age of 29. This company would later grow into the world-renowned Tata Group. Jamsetji Tata's Contributions to India Jamsetji Tata popularly known as father of Indian industry was not just a businessman – he was a true pioneer. His ideas were ahead of his time. He set up India's first steel plant, the country's first hydroelectric power station, and supported higher education by helping to establish what would later become the Indian Institute of Science in Bengaluru. But one of his most famous legacies is the Taj Hotel in Mumbai – a grand project that was born out of pride and a desire to break racial discrimination. Why Did Jamsetji Tata Build the Taj Hotel? The story behind the Taj Hotel is as iconic as the building itself. During the British Raj, Jamsetji Tata was once denied entry into Watson's Hotel in Mumbai, a prestigious hotel that only allowed white guests. Feeling deeply insulted, not just for himself but for all Indians, he decided to build a hotel even more luxurious – one that welcomed everyone, regardless of race or status. This bold step was not just about business. It was a statement of Indian dignity and self-respect. The Birth of India's First Luxury Hotel – The Taj Mahal Palace The foundation of the grand Taj Hotel, officially called the Taj Mahal Palace, was laid in 1898. It opened its doors to guests on 16 December 1902, long before Mumbai's Gateway of India was even built. The Taj Mahal Palace was the first building in Bombay to be lit by electricity. It quickly became a symbol of Indian luxury, elegance, and hospitality. The hotel has two parts – the original Palace building and the newer Tower Wing, which was added in 1973. The unique blend of architectural styles makes it one of the most beautiful landmarks in Mumbai. Taj Hotel – A Guest House to History Since its opening, the Taj Hotel has welcomed many famous and powerful guests – from world leaders to celebrities. During World War I, it was turned into a 600-bed hospital for wounded soldiers. Even Ratanbai Petit, the wife of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, founder of Pakistan, stayed at the Taj during her final days. Her sister-in-law Sylla Tata was a member of the Tata family, further connecting the hotel to the country's history. Taj Hotel and the 2008 Mumbai Attacks The Taj Hotel faced one of its darkest days during the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks. Despite the destruction and loss, the hotel was rebuilt and restored with even more pride and care. Today, it stands stronger than ever, a true symbol of resilience. Jamsetji Tata Death Anniversary – Remembering a Visionary As we observe the Jamsetji Tata death anniversary on 19 May, it's important to remember the values he stood for – courage, dignity, and the spirit of building something for the greater good. His dream was never just about business profits. It was always about empowering India and making it stand tall on the global stage. Taj Hotel: A Brand That Keeps Growing Today, the Taj Hotel chain is the flagship brand of Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), the largest hospitality group in South Asia. According to the 2024 "Hotels 50" report by Brand Finance, Taj Hotels has become the world's strongest hotel brand with a massive brand value of $545 million (Rs 4,553 crore). It's also the second-fastest-growing hotel brand in the world, after Sheraton's Four Points. Even after over a century, Jamsetji Tata's vision continues to grow stronger. Jamsetji Tata, the man behind the Taj Hotel, is remembered as one of India's greatest pioneers. On his death anniversary, we pay tribute to his incredible legacy – from steel plants and education to lighting up Indian hospitality with the Taj. The Taj Hotel is not just a building – it's a reminder of what one man's vision can do. And that's the real power of Jamsetji Tata. For the latest and more interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Click here.
Time of India
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Sabyasachi brings quiet power to the Met Gala 2025
The inspiration behind the look? Deeper than you might think. In an Instagram post following his appearance, Sabyasachi reflected on the theme of 'Black Dandyism' and how it intersects with Indian history. He drew parallels between this bold form of self-expression and the legacy of Jamsetji Tata - the legendary founder of the Taj hotels, who built a world-class hotel in response to being denied entry to a 'Whites only' colonial club. 'Black dandyism originated as a form of self-expression to defy societal, racial and gendered norms,' Sabyasachi wrote. 'Within an Indian context, I think of Jamsetji Tata... who was denied entry to Watson's Hotel in Bombay. That experience led him to build the world renowned Taj Mahal Palace hotel as a symbol of resistance and empowerment.'
Yahoo
10-04-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Alleged co-conspirator in Mumbai terror attacks lands in India after being extradited from US
A suspect accused of facilitating the deadly Mumbai terror attacks in 2008 has been extradited by the United States to India, 17 years after the country was jolted by one of the worst tragedies to occur on its soil. Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a Canadian citizen of Pakistani origin, landed in New Delhi on Thursday, two police officials with knowledge of his movements told CNN Thursday. He faces trial in India after the US approved his extradition following years of legal wrangling over the case. India accuses Rana of conspiring to carry out one of the country's deadliest attacks, when 10 Pakistani men associated with the terror group Lashkar-e-Tayyiba killed more than 160 people during a four-day rampage through Mumbai that began on November 26, 2008. That date is etched in the memory of the nation and is often referred to as India's 9/11. The attackers traveled to Mumbai by boat from the Pakistani port city of Karachi, hijacking a fishing trawler and killing its five crew members along the way. The men then docked at the waterfront near the iconic Gateway of India monument and split into at least three groups to carry out the attacks, according to police. Using automatic weapons and grenades, they targeted the city's largest train terminal, the luxury Taj Mahal Palace and the Oberoi Trident hotels, the popular Leopold restaurant, a Jewish community center, and a hospital. Nine of the 10 terrorists were killed by police during a cat-and-mouse chase across the city. The lone surviving gunman, Ajmal Kasab, was executed in 2012. Rana, who lived in the US at the time, is accused by New Delhi of conspiring with the terrorists and proving them with information required to carry out their attack. He previously denied similar accusations in a US court. India's federal investigative agency has charged Rana with several crimes, including attempting to wage war, murder and forgery. If found guilty, the 64-year-old could face the death penalty. On Thursday, the country's National Investigation Agency confirmed Rana's extradition, writing in a statement that he was sent to India after he exhausted all legal avenues to stay in the US. In 2011, a US court acquitted Rana of conspiracy to provide material to support the Mumbai attackers, but he was found guilty of two other charges, including providing material support to Lashkar-e-Tayyiba. He was serving a 14-year sentence in a Los Angeles jail for those charges when his extradition was approved earlier this week. India's foreign ministry on Wednesday said the US Supreme Court had rejected Rana's plea to stay his extradition, but did not answer further questions about the case.
