NRAI (National Restaurant Association of India) that launched its Kolkata Chapter in July 2019, recently hosted their ‘Energise Your Business’ session (a monthly initiative where guest speakers from the F&B industry are called upon to share their journey and views) at Ozora in Acropolis Mall. The guest for the recent edition was Zorawar Kalra, founder of Massive Restaurants Pvt. Ltd., host and judge of MasterChef India Season 5, a visionary, and son of Jiggs Kalra — the czar of Indian cuisine. Zorawar spoke at length about the present scenario of the F&B industry, dealing with the pandemic, coping mechanism, the future and more in the presence of Aditya Ladsaria, chapter head, NRAI Kolkata, along with other eminent restaurateurs from the city.
“The NRAI is a body whose sole reason for existence is to rake up the causes of the industry. It has been spearheading and providing guidance and is constituted of an incredibly diverse and progressive managing committee that is devoted to address the issues that directly affect the restaurants across the country. In today’s day and age brands need to know the importance of technology, HR and location. Massive Restaurants has a presence in over 10 countries now and is set on a trail of expansion in India. I want everyone in our community to benefit from my experience,” said Zorawar.
With over 600 restaurants as members, NRAI Kolkata Chapter aims to have more events like these with the object of imparting knowledge through experiences for its members and also those who want to venture into the F&B industry. Snapshots from the do.
Spotted
Sudhir Ahuja, managing director — Beyzaa Hotel and Suites
Sagar Daryani, co-founder of Wow Momo, Wow China and Wow Chicken, and vice-president of NRAI.
Rohit Ojha, co-owner Reality, Scrapyard, Mirosh and Kaidi Kitchen.
Ishani Priyadarshini, owner, Surfire
Aayush Killa, local franchise owner of Pa Pa Ya, SodaBottleOpenerWala and co-owner La Artisan
One, for the album, Team NRAI Kolkata Chapter posed for the t2 camera. “Having spent a decade-plus in the industry and with the experience of working in a start-up ecosystem, I personally relate to the challenges that any new foodpreneur might face. At NRAI, with the vast collective experience that we have, we understand that sharing is an important part of growth within the ecosystem and with the society at large. I am really happy to see the enthusiasm of the participants, speakers and members in these initiatives and it just strengthens our beliefs that this industry will thrive with a lot of new ideas, innovations and collaboration efforts,” said Aditya Ladsaria, who is also the co-founder of brands like Chai Break, Truly Publik and Air 1910.
While for Anirban Sengupta (secretary, NRAI Kolkata Chapter) the evening was an enriching one. “To see Zorawar Kalra talk about how he started small with a cart business and gradually scaled up his operations, which now spans across 10 countries with over 45 outlets, was amazing. The Energise Your Business event, curated by NRAI Kolkata chapter is a very encouraging step forwards revitalising the F&B industry reeling under pressure due to Covid-induced losses. Such knowledge-sharing platforms along with networking opportunities with the best restaurateurs of Kolkata was an event which will remain etched in memory and we will look forward to curate such events in the future,” said Anirban, who is also a partner at What’s Up! Cafe.
They loved
“It was great having the event at Ozora with the members of NRAI Kolkata. Sessions like these add a lot of relevance to what’s happening in the present scenario and help us address issues too as a team,” said Varun Mimani, co-founder and director, Ozora and M Bar— Kitchen & Cocktails.
“The event was a sell-out! The crowd was so enthusiastic to know his journey with having brands across all formats. Everyone had something to learn. His legacy added weight to the event and motivated enthusiastic restaurateurs,” said Nikhil Chawla, co-owner Marbella’s and Poach.
“The energy, dedication and the level of camaraderie of our fraternity that is visible in NRAI was truly exemplary. Meeting our friends from the industry and having such interesting conversations was amazing. The detailing, designing and execution of the event was top notch and I gained so much knowledge. I look forward to definitely attending it again,” said Amit and Vanita Bajoria, local franchisee owners of Lord of The Drinks, Warehouse Cafe and owner of Veneto.
Pictures: B. Halder