Why India’s Leading Entrepreneurs Prefer The Camellias: Rajiv Chawla Shares Insights From A Community Built On Merit And Wealth Creation

Entrepreneurship

December 8, 2025

The Camellias in Gurugram has always been wrapped in a mix of curiosity, envy and jokes, but businessman Rajiv Chawla’s recent comments have added a refreshing layer to the story. Known for its sky-high prices, gleaming towers and billionaire neighbours, the luxury address has long been a favourite target for stand-up comics and social media memes. But Chawla, who also lives there, believes the jokes only scratch the surface.

Speaking on a podcast, he described The Camellias as a place where achievers of every kind quietly go about their day. According to him, even the most casual interactions reveal how driven the residents are. Gym partners turn out to be unicorn founders, neighbours are self-made entrepreneurs, and many families represent India’s first generation of wealth creators. Their children are now stepping into that world with the same ambition and hustle.

Chawla joked about the memes too — the laundry guy with a LinkedIn profile, parking lots that resemble supercar rallies, and delivery boys who look like they’ve cleared MBA interviews just to enter the gate. But behind the humour, he said, is a community built on grit rather than inheritance. The people here have endured rejection, sleepless nights, delayed salaries, EMI pressure and the long, lonely grind of building something from scratch.

He called the society a “museum of stories,” where every lobby, poolside chat and morning jog holds the journey of someone who built their life piece by piece. And that, he insists, deserves respect. Not because the residents are wealthy, but because most of them earned every bit of what they have.

Chawla’s message was simple: laugh at the memes, enjoy the jokes, but don’t forget the effort behind those marble walls.

TWH Hospitality Announces Ambitious Growth Plan, Launching 8 Outlets Across India by 2028

INVESTMENTS

SnackTeam

December 8, 2025

Goa-based TWH Hospitality has unveiled a bold growth strategy, announcing a Rs. 30 crore investment to expand its footprint in India’s Food & Beverage sector. The company aims to open eight new outlets across three cities by 2028, signaling a strong push to scale both its café and hospitality operations.

Currently, TWH Hospitality operates The Boho Cafe in Anjuna and The Boho Beach Resort in Morjim under its TWH Hotels division, both in Goa. With this expansion, the company plans to diversify its presence using a combination of franchise-led and strategic partnership models, including FOCO (Franchise-Owned, Company-Operated) and FOFO (Franchise-Owned, Franchise-Operated) formats.

“We are excited to take our brand to new markets and offer distinctive dining and stay experiences to our customers,” said a company spokesperson. “This investment will help us accelerate growth while maintaining the quality and authenticity our patrons associate with our brand.”

The expansion roadmap already identifies potential locations in Goa and the Tricity region, including Chandigarh, with discussions underway with international brands to bring new concepts to India. The company is also exploring partnerships with shopping malls in multiple cities to increase accessibility and attract a wider audience.

Industry experts say the move positions TWH Hospitality to leverage India’s growing appetite for curated dining experiences and boutique hospitality offerings. With urban consumers increasingly seeking lifestyle-oriented F&B outlets and experiential stays, the company’s strategy aligns with broader trends in hospitality expansion and franchising in India.

The planned rollout is expected to generate employment opportunities for hospitality professionals and provide a platform for entrepreneurs interested in franchise partnerships. By combining established brand values with aggressive growth, TWH Hospitality is setting the stage for a nationwide presence while reinforcing its identity as a lifestyle-focused F&B and hospitality player.

Quick Commerce Firm Zepto Faces ₹7 Lakh CCPA Fine for Hidden Charges

Quick Commerce

SnackTeam

December 8, 2025

The Central Consumer Protection Authority has imposed a penalty of ₹7 lakh on quick commerce firm Zepto for using deceptive online practices commonly referred to as dark patterns. The ruling follows an inspection conducted in January, which revealed that Zepto engaged in misleading pricing techniques that violated the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, and the 2023 guidelines on the prevention and regulation of dark patterns.

According to the CCPA, the platform employed “drip pricing,” where mandatory fees appeared late in the checkout process, and “basket sneaking,” under which add-ons such as Zepto Pass were automatically selected without explicit customer consent. These practices led customers to pay higher amounts than initially displayed, undermining transparency and trust in the platform.

The regulator has ordered Zepto to overhaul its app and website to ensure all fees and charges are disclosed upfront, remove dark pattern tactics, and submit proof of compliance within 15 days. Zepto is the second company to be penalized under these norms, following ride-hailing firm Rapido, which was fined ₹10 lakh in August over misleading auto-opt-in features.

This enforcement comes amid heightened scrutiny of digital businesses in India. Earlier this year, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs directed 11 major e-commerce and quick commerce platforms, including Zepto, Uber, and Ola, to audit their systems and remove manipulative practices. In response, 26 platforms submitted self-declaration letters confirming adherence to anti-dark pattern guidelines.

The CCPA’s action signals a more aggressive approach toward protecting consumers from hidden charges and coercive online tactics. By penalizing Zepto, the authority aims to set a precedent that ensures pricing transparency, strengthens consumer rights, and curbs exploitative practices in India’s rapidly expanding e-commerce and quick commerce markets.

India’s Patanjali Eyes Global Expansion, MoU with Russia to Promote Ayurveda and Wellness Products

Business

SnackTeam

December 8, 2025

Baba Ramdev-led Patanjali Group has formally entered into a strategic collaboration with the Russian government, signing a Memorandum of Understanding to facilitate the company’s foray into the country. The agreement, inked on Saturday, outlines a multi-faceted agenda including the promotion of health and wellness, Ayurveda, yoga, naturopathy, and research-based initiatives.

Ramdev, representing Patanjali, emphasized the significance of Russia as a key gateway for the company’s global wellness ambitions. “People in Russia actively engage with yoga and Ayurveda. This partnership allows us to take India’s wellness traditions, knowledge of the sages, and cultural heritage to a broader international audience, with Russia serving as the entry point,” he said. The MoU also focuses on facilitating health tourism, exchange of skilled professionals, and collaborative research to strengthen scientific and cultural links between the two nations.

Signed on behalf of Russia by Sergey Cheremin, Minister of Commerce and Chairman of the Indo-Russia Business Council, the agreement underscores Moscow’s commitment to integrating Ayurveda and holistic wellness into its healthcare ecosystem. Cheremin noted that the adoption of Patanjali’s wellness practices would contribute to improving public health and promoting disease-free lifestyles among Russian citizens.

The MoU further opens doors for trade promotion between the two countries, including marketing Indian wellness brands in Russia and Russian products in India. Patanjali, which operates across FMCG, Ayurvedic, and nutraceutical categories through Patanjali Ayurved and Patanjali Foods, has positioned this expansion as a strategic step in its global growth strategy.

Analysts see this move as part of Patanjali’s broader ambition to reach nearly 200 international markets, combining commercial expansion with the dissemination of India’s cultural and wellness heritage. With Ayurveda and yoga gaining popularity worldwide, Russia is expected to become a pivotal market in Patanjali’s international portfolio.

Reckitt Sees India as Strategic Powerhouse with Offline Retail Driving 85 Percent of Sales

Retail & Ecommerce

SnackTeam

December 8, 2025

Reckitt has placed India firmly at the centre of its global growth map, describing the country as a nucleus of excellence as its flagship brands now reach an extraordinary ten million stores. The company highlighted this scale at its investor meet in London on December 4, calling India one of the most strategically important markets within its emerging economies portfolio.

Nitish Kapoor, global president for emerging markets, told investors that the retail reach in India is unlike any other geography. He noted that India alone has nearly eleven million stores, a figure that exceeds the total number of retail outlets across Europe. Dettol, Lizol, Mortein, Moov, Veet, Air Wick and Strepsils anchor the company’s presence across the country, supported by long running programmes like Dettol Banega Swachh India which have strengthened brand trust since 2014.

The company’s latest quarterly figures underline the momentum. Reckitt reported like for like net revenue growth of seven percent in the September quarter. Emerging markets contributed strongly, growing by more than fifteen percent. India’s business is benefiting from wide distribution and a sharpened focus on product assortment suited to neighbourhood retail stores which continue to dominate consumer shopping habits.

Traditional kirana outlets still account for eighty five percent of all FMCG sales. Quick commerce platforms have expanded rapidly but contribute around fifteen percent of Reckitt’s India revenue. Kapoor said the rise of Blinkit, Instamart and Zepto has helped push ecommerce and quick commerce combined to fifteen percent of the company’s India turnover, up from barely one percent a decade ago.

Reckitt manufactures most of its India portfolio within the country, with local production covering ninety five percent of its needs. The company noted in its annual report that India now contributes eight percent of its global core net revenue, making it one of the most influential pieces of its wider emerging markets strategy.

Why Hyderabad’s Food Scene May Explode This Year: Inside The New Culinary Tourism Accelerator

Business

SnackTeam

December 8, 2025

Telangana is stepping into the culinary spotlight with an energy that has food lovers buzzing. The state has launched India’s first Culinary Tourism Accelerator, a one of a kind effort that brings its rich kitchen culture forward in a fresh, modern way. It celebrates not only the flavours that define the region but also the people who keep these food traditions alive every single day.

The program is designed to bring chefs, home cooks, farmers, food researchers, small business owners and young entrepreneurs under one roof. The goal is simple. Turn Telangana’s food heritage into an experience that travelers remember long after they leave. With iconic dishes like Hyderabadi biryani, tamarind rich stews, millet based plates and a wide range of pickles and spice blends, the state has always had a strong food identity. The accelerator now gives it the structure and push it deserves.

One of the standout ideas behind this initiative is its focus on storytelling. Visitors will not only taste a dish but also learn the origin, ingredients and people behind it. This creates a deeper connection, especially for tourists who want more than a casual meal. Workshops, food walks, chef collaborations, rural tasting trails and seasonal menus are expected to be a part of the experience.

For entrepreneurs, the accelerator becomes a launchpad. It offers mentorship, ingredient sourcing support, branding guidance and access to investors who are eager to explore fresh food ventures rooted in regional authenticity. For local communities, it promises new income opportunities that can grow steadily.

As the accelerator expands, Telangana is set to become a major culinary destination. It blends tradition with innovation and invites the world to explore a food culture that feels warm, proud and unmistakably its own.

TCPL Eyes Danone India Nutrition Unit as Protein and Wellness Demand Surge

FMCG

SnackTeam

December 8, 2025

Tata Consumer Products is closing in on a potential acquisition of Danone’s India nutraceuticals and specialised nutrition portfolio, according to people tracking the discussions. Talks that began earlier this year have picked up pace in recent weeks, with both sides nearing agreement on valuation. If sealed, the deal would mark Tata Consumer’s biggest push yet into the fast-expanding wellness and nutrition economy.

The company behind Tata Tea has been steadily stitching together a wider health-focused portfolio through buys such as Soulfull, Capital Foods and Organic India. It has also been building out categories like functional drinks, organic staples and protein-rich foods, sectors that have seen double-digit growth since the pandemic reshaped consumer priorities.

Industry analysts say the move will place Tata Consumer in direct competition with global heavyweights such as Nestlé and Abbott in the premium nutrition space. Abneesh Roy of Nuvama Institutional Equities noted that while the Tata brand commands trust, especially in sensitive categories like infant nutrition, the segment demands strict compliance and deep expertise. He added that protein has become one of the fiercest battlegrounds in India’s fast-moving consumer goods sector, with nearly every major company entering the field.

Danone’s portfolio in India, built largely around its Rs 1,576 crore acquisition of Wockhardt’s nutrition business, includes well-known brands such as Farex, Dexolac and Protinex. These categories have consistently outpaced overall packaged foods growth, driven by rising interest in preventive health and stronger demand for immune-supporting products. India’s demographics amplify this opportunity, with about 23 million births each year and a rapidly ageing population projected to reach nearly 500 million people above 65 by 2030.

Over the past decade, Danone has pivoted repeatedly in India after exiting its dairy venture in 2018. A sale to Tata Consumer would signal another turning point for the French group and potentially give the Tata conglomerate a deeper foothold in one of the country’s most active consumer markets.

Madhuri Dixit Paid Rs 1.6 Crore to Promote Odisha Handloom as State Bets Big on Celebrity Power

Online Desk

December 6, 2025

Image of Odisha Handloom — Madhuri Dixit Paid Rs 1.6 Crore to Promote Odisha Handloom as State Bets Big on Celebrity Power

Odisha’s handloom sector has stepped into the spotlight after a statement in the Assembly confirmed that Madhuri Dixit is being paid Rs 1.6 crore for her role as the state’s handloom brand ambassador. The announcement immediately stirred interest across political and cultural circles, partly because of the size of the fee and partly because of the growing importance of celebrity endorsements in promoting traditional crafts.

Madhuri’s involvement is meant to give Odisha’s handloom industry a stronger national presence. Her long standing popularity, television reach, and huge social media following have made her one of the most recognisable faces in Indian entertainment. Officials believe her association will help the state’s rich weaving traditions reach new audiences, especially younger buyers who often look to familiar personalities when discovering regional crafts.

Odisha’s handloom legacy includes famous styles such as Sambalpuri, Bomkai, and Berhampuri. Despite their beauty and history, these textiles often struggle to compete with mass produced fabrics that dominate the urban market. By bringing in a well known national figure, the government hopes to increase visibility and open fresh business opportunities for weavers who depend on the craft for their livelihood.

The decision, however, has sparked a debate inside the Assembly. Some members questioned whether such a large fee is justified at a time when several weaving clusters are still recovering from slow sales and rising production costs. Others argued that strategic marketing is essential if the sector is to grow and that investing in a high profile ambassador can bring long term returns.

Madhuri’s presence at recent cultural events has already created a noticeable buzz. The state now hopes that this renewed attention will translate into stronger demand, better income for artisans, and a brighter future for Odisha’s celebrated handloom heritage.

Prada Taps Chinese Superstar Yang Mi as New Ambassador as She Brings a Fanbase of 113 Million

SnackTeam

December 6, 2025

Prada has added fresh star power to its global roster with the appointment of a new brand ambassador who already commands massive influence across Asia. The luxury house revealed the news with a polished campaign that instantly caught attention across fashion circles. The move reflects Prada’s growing focus on China, a market that continues to play a decisive role in shaping luxury trends and consumer behaviour.

The actress featured in the announcement is known for her long list of blockbuster television dramas, strong box office performances, and an online presence that few can rival. With more than 113 million followers on Weibo, she brings a level of visibility that most global brands dream of. Her partnership with Prada signals a closer alignment between prestige fashion labels and top tier Chinese talent, particularly at a moment when luxury spending patterns in the region are shifting quickly.

Prada’s choice also reflects the brand’s recent creative direction, which blends clean Italian elegance with a sharper, more contemporary image. The actress’s poised style, often seen in tailored silhouettes and muted colours, fits naturally with the house’s current aesthetic. Industry watchers see this collaboration as a major step toward strengthening Prada’s connection with younger consumers who admire her confidence, work ethic, and polished public persona.

Fashion analysts expect the partnership to extend beyond campaigns and public appearances. There is speculation that Prada may use her presence to highlight upcoming collections in key Asian markets, deepen cultural ties, and create limited edition collaborations that speak directly to her enormous fanbase.

With this announcement, Prada has made a clear statement. The brand is not only investing in global visibility but also embracing a cultural force who continues to shape conversations in entertainment, beauty, and style across China.

Anheuser-Busch Acquires Majority of BeatBox in $490 Million Deal, Expands Beyond Beer Portfolio

Beverages

SnackTeam

December 6, 2025

Anheuser-Busch has struck one of its most significant deals in the ready-to-drink beverage segment, agreeing to purchase an 85 percent stake in BeatBox for a transaction valued at 490 million dollars. The agreement, which was finalized this week, includes a structured path for Anheuser-Busch to move toward complete ownership over the next five years, signaling the company’s confidence in the explosive growth of flavored alcoholic beverages.

BeatBox, best known for its brightly packaged, high-ABV party punches, has built a strong presence among younger consumers and has consistently ranked among the fastest-growing alcohol brands in the United States. Industry analysts say the company’s ability to blend viral marketing with strong retail performance has made it an attractive target for major strategics looking to diversify beyond traditional beer categories.

For Anheuser-Busch, the acquisition marks a deliberate step forward in expanding its Beyond Beer portfolio. The global brewer has spent the past several years assembling a lineup of high-performing brands outside the core beer category, including Cutwater Spirits, NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer, and Phorm Energy. Adding BeatBox positions the company to capture more share in the ready-to-drink and flavored malt beverage market, which continues to outpace traditional beer in growth.

Executives familiar with the deal say BeatBox’s distribution network, brand equity, and momentum among Gen Z and millennial drinkers made it a strategic fit for Anheuser-Busch’s long-term modernization plans. With the transition to majority ownership now underway, both companies are expected to outline their integration strategy in the coming months, focusing on scaling BeatBox’s footprint across national retail chains and expanding production to meet accelerating demand.

The acquisition underscores a broader shift across the beverage alcohol industry, where established giants are increasingly turning to innovative, lifestyle-driven brands to fuel future growth.

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