By Lyla Shroff

Start the new year with a bang as 2024 brings an array of exciting and innovative brand launches and events. From delectable gastronomy to mesmerising art exhibitions, this week’s lineup of new offerings is all set to captivate you. Get ready to dive into a world of fresh possibilities and indulge in these remarkable brand releases that promise to set the tone for an extraordinary year ahead.

1. The Griffin Bar Unveiled at JW Marriott Kolkata

JW Marriott Kolkata proudly introduces The Griffin Bar, redefining the city’s nightlife. This innovative establishment transitions seamlessly from a morning coffee haven to an evening cocktail oasis. A paradigm shift from traditional concepts, The Griffin Bar promises curated cocktails, exquisite coffee, and delectable dishes. Led by Varun Sudhakar, a renowned culinary expert, the menu offers unparalleled sophistication.

2. Kyma Sets Sail in Pune after Two Years in Mumbai

Celebrating two years in Mumbai, Kyma, the fusion haven of Asian and Mediterranean flavours, announces its journey to Pune. A symbol of refined dining, Kyma blends relaxation with all-day dining, captivating patrons with private cabanas and luxurious dining. The Pune menu features Kyma classics and innovative selections like Prawns Rubiyan and Truffle Edamame Dumpling. With gratitude for Mumbai, Kyma embraces new adventures, promising an unforgettable culinary experience in Pune.

3. ‘The Evolution of Now’ Showcases a Pop Up Exhibition for Young Collectors

Teesta Bhandare has curated ‘The Evolution of Now,’ a pop-up exhibition catering to young collectors. It follows her success with the Young Collectors’ Weekend, fostering art dialogue. Merging art, technology, workshops, and discussions, the event will run from 11th to 14th January at Kathiwada City House in Mumbai. The exhibition showcases diverse Indian artists, each exploring evolving themes. With an emphasis on art-tech fusion via blockchain, the exhibition prioritises provenance via Art Garde’s technology. The event showcases digital twins of artworks for provenance and authenticity, aligning with Art Garde’s mission.

4. Mexico’s Premier Tequila ‘Don Julio’ Lands in India

Diageo introduces Don Julio, the iconic tequila brand, to India. Don Julio, long favoured by elite circles globally, debuts amid high-profile launch parties in Gurgaon and Mumbai, attended by prominent personalities like Harsh Varrdhan Kapoor and Nia Sharma. Founded in 1942 by Don Julio González, the brand’s legacy reflects meticulous agave cultivation. Offerings include Blanco, Reposado, Anejo, and the esteemed 1942 variant. With initial availability in select markets like Haryana, Chandigarh, Maharashtra, and Goa, the tequila signifies opulence and innovation in India’s luxury landscape.

5. The Body Shop Achieves 100% Vegan Formulations—a Global Beauty Milestone

The Body Shop has announced a historic achievement of becoming the first global beauty brand to offer 100% vegan product formulations, spanning skincare, body care, haircare, makeup, and fragrance, certified by The Vegan Society. With over 1000 products and 4000 ingredients validated, this milestone reflects the brand’s commitment to cruelty-free beauty. The move aligns with the growing global demand for vegan cosmetics, emphasising a sustainable vision of beauty and animal welfare, a cause the brand has championed since campaigning against animal testing in 1989.

6. Nirvair Singh Rai’s ‘Reclaiming Spaces’ Exhibition at Method Juhu

Method Juhu has introduced Nirvair Singh Rai’s solo exhibition, ‘Reclaiming Spaces’, which showcases Mumbai’s essence captured by his lens. Rai’s portrayal delves into the city’s diverse realms, exploring how people navigate the pressures of urban life. His frames depict Mumbai’s unity amidst adversity, highlighting locations like Bandstand and Marine Drive as symbols of the city’s embracing character. His lens captures the resilience of nature against urban sprawl, prompting reflection on the city’s relentless expansion and its impact on individual spaces. The exhibition will run from 11th January to 11th February, 2024.

7. Sheraton Colombo Hotel: A Hub of Urban Comfort & Connectivity

Sheraton Hotels & Resorts debuts the Sheraton Colombo Hotel, its second property in Sri Lanka, emphasising community and cultural integration. Strategically located in Colombo’s business and shopping district, the 320-room hotel offers a blend of contemporary urban vitality and historical charm. Boasting upscale dining, exclusive club lounges, and a rejuvenating Shine Spa, it aims to foster productivity, connections, and relaxation for both business and leisure travellers.

8. AlUla Falcon Cup Sets a Record with Highest Prize Money & Ancient Traditions

The inaugural AlUla Falcon Cup, hosted in collaboration with the Saudi Falcons Club, showcased falconry traditions in the Arabian Peninsula. The event took place from 28th December , 2023, to 5th January, 2024, at the Mughaira Heritage Sports Village in AlUla, featuring a total prize of 60 million SAR. It held falcon racing and beauty competitions, signifying a step toward reconciling cultural heritage while offering immersive experiences amid AlUla’s scenic landscape.

9. Lufthansa Group Teams Up with LGE Travel for Sustainable Aviation

Lufthansa Group and Singapore-based LGE Travel have forged a groundbreaking partnership for sustainable aviation, culminating in the largest Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) bulk deal in the Asia-Pacific for Lufthansa Group. This landmark collaboration not only signifies a significant leap towards sustainability but also marks the first bulk SAF deal in Singapore. LGE Travel’s proactive approach aligns with the growing demand for eco-friendly travel, echoing Lufthansa Group’s commitment to shaping a greener aviation future.

10. Anish Gawande Leads a Panel Discussion on ‘Art Beyond the Canvas’

Explore ‘Art Beyond the Canvas’ in a panel led by Anish Gawande with Tina Tahiliani Parikh, Kamal Malik, and Sangita Kathiwada at Kathiwada City House on 13th January. The conversation will redefine art, transcending conventional boundaries, and offering a unique insight into its role in business, design, and architecture.