Novotel debuts in Bhubaneswar with first international branded hotel
Accor has expanded its footprint in eastern India with the opening of Novotel Bhubaneswar, the city’s first internationally branded hotel. Conveniently located near the airport, railway station and key landmarks, the 118-room property offers modern accommodation, 12,000 sq. ft. of event space, multiple dining venues and recreational facilities. The hotel is designed to cater to business travellers, families, conferences, weddings and social events.
Air India, Saudia strengthen partnership with strategic MoU
Air India and Saudia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to deepen strategic cooperation and enhance air connectivity between India and Saudi Arabia. Building on their existing codeshare partnership, the agreement explores expanded network connectivity, terminal co-location, loyalty programme collaboration and operational synergies. Both airlines will also evaluate extending cooperation to sister carriers, including Air India Express and flyadeal.
Akasa Air to launch daily Jaipur flights from October 11
Akasa Air will expand its domestic network by launching daily non-stop flights connecting Jaipur with Mumbai and Bengaluru from 11 October 2026. Jaipur becomes the airline’s 29th domestic destination and its second in Rajasthan after Udaipur. The new services aim to strengthen connectivity between Rajasthan and two of India’s key commercial hubs, while boosting tourism, business travel and regional economic growth.
Maharashtra Tourism showcases Warkari Heritage through ‘Chala Pandharisi Jaau’
The Maharashtra Tourism Department presented ‘Chala Pandharisi Jaau’ at Mumbai’s Ravindra Natya Mandir, celebrating the state’s Warkari tradition, saint heritage and religious tourism. Featuring devotional music, storytelling and dance, the cultural programme received an enthusiastic response from audiences. Senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary (Tourism) Sanjay Khandare, IAS, attended the event.
#First Opinion
“As an experiential tour company since 1994, Tornos is placing a strong bet on Uttar Pradesh’s first integrated meadery tour by Mbrosia at Madhav Udhyan, offering immersive farm-to-table mead tasting experiences. Such initiatives align perfectly with the goal of attracting high-value tourists. India produces world-class beverages, yet many hotels and airlines continue to prioritise imported spirits. It is time to introduce dedicated menus showcasing Indian beverages—including meads—which are rapidly gaining popularity across international markets.”
Prateek Hira,
President & CEO, Tornos
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