In this blog post, I cover my blogging accomplishments in the year 2017.
The last year was in all probability one of the best years for my blog in terms of its reach, influence, and engagement. From being featured as one of the Top 5 Lifestyle Bloggers in the country (courtesy: Better Homes and Gardens Lifestyle Magazine in association with Social Samosa) to being invited to present at international conferences such as the STC Summit in Washington, 2017 was nothing short of a miracle.
Last year I wrote 60 stories on my blog, that is five stories per month on an average. Besides that, I was interviewed twice on TV - first, on NDTV Good Times for their show 'Britannia Nutrichoice presents Diabetic Food Trail', and then on Delhi Aaj Tak for their feature on the 'Nawabi Food Festival' at Ardor 2.1 Restaurant and Lounge in Connaught Place, New Delhi.
Last year I wrote 60 stories on my blog, that is five stories per month on an average. Besides that, I was interviewed twice on TV - first, on NDTV Good Times for their show 'Britannia Nutrichoice presents Diabetic Food Trail', and then on Delhi Aaj Tak for their feature on the 'Nawabi Food Festival' at Ardor 2.1 Restaurant and Lounge in Connaught Place, New Delhi.
I was the official blogger for the second edition of the Serendipity Arts Festival, India's biggest multidisciplinary arts festival that brings together some of the finest names from the world of craft, music, theater, dance, culinary arts, visual arts, and photography.
The festival took place along the banks of the river Mandovi in Panaji, Goa last year from December 15 to December 22.
I covered the third edition of the PNB Metlife Junior Badminton Championship (JBC 3) held at the Thyagaraj Sports Complex, New Delhi, from July 26 to July 28. The JBC 3 tournament is pegged as the biggest national open-platform for promoting badminton at the grassroots level for school children, including the underprivileged. Over the years, the tournament has grown significantly and hosted over 15,000 children cumulatively from all three seasons.
That wasn't all!
My blog was listed as one of the Top 300 blogs in the 7th edition of the Directory of Best Indian Blogs, published every year since 2011. Yours truly also featured among the Top 200 Outstanding Content Experience Strategists for 2017.
I will fondly remember 2017 for two major international conferences I was privileged to be a part of. In May, I was invited to present a paper on 'How Social Media Can Be Part of Your Set of Technical Communication Skills' at the 64th STC Summit in Washington, DC.
Two months later, I was part of the media delegation at RISE 2017, which was held in Hong Kong from July 11 to July 13. RISE is produced by the same team that is behind the Web Summit. In six short years, Web Summit has become Europe's largest tech conference which last year attracted 53,000 attendees from 136 countries around the world.
I felt a great sense of accomplishment last year to see my name in print. My article on 'How social media can be part of your set of tc skills' was published in the July edition of the tcworld magazine, tekom's English language magazine on international information management. I was also featured in ET Panache - the lifestyle supplement of The Economic Times, published on August 25, 2017.
In several ways, last year was all about pushing boundaries and exploring my real potential. I conducted a half-day training on Influencer Marketing in April to a small yet engaged audience.
The success of this training encouraged me to conduct another half-day training - on Media Relations this time - at Chicco India's head office in Gurgaon on August 1, 2017. Chicco is a premium Italian brand with nearly sixty years of worldwide expertise, offering a wide range of baby products in India related to feeding, baby toiletries, travel, toys, etc.
Here is a recap of the year gone by for me.
January
In the month of January, I wrote a blog post on Prankster, which is India's first food and brewery campus. I also wrote three detailed stories on Pier 38 Bar and Kitchen, Soi 7 Pub and Brewery, and Circus.
My Instagram followers were agog over my posts on Cafe Gatherings, Nosh, Agent Jack's Bidding Bar, Warehouse Cafe, Flying Saucer Cafe, Chocolate Desire, Smokey's BBQ and Grill, 18+ Cafe and Lounge, Feel Alive, Noorjahan restaurant, Farzi Cafe, etc.
I covered the sixth edition of the World Children Expo, India's first integrated children event, which since 2012 has attracted over 100,000 visitors and marquee children brands such as Disney, Cartoon Network, POGO, ZeeQ, Nickelodeon, Discovery Channel Networks, Microsoft Xbox, etc.
The highlight of January was a chance meeting with MasterChef Sanjeev Kapoor and a visit to Anna Maya Delhi, India's first European food hall promoting mindful eating.
February
February was a rather slow month as far as the blog was concerned. I only managed to publish two stories on the blog; however, my Instagram page was abuzz over my coverage of F&B properties like Khaaja Chowk, Nukkad Cafe, Guppy, t Lounge by Dilmah, Cafe Southall, Vega, Paan Singh, Goldfinch Hotel, Nariyal Cafe, Zaffran, Norenj, Brauhaus, Butterfly Lounge and Bar, etc.
I blogged about Pling, which is the most vibrant lux-lounge at Pullman New Delhi. My second blog post in February was about a tea tasting session hosted by Teamonk Global at the DLF Club 5 in Gurgaon.
I was the official blogger at the Lloyd Palate Fest 2017. It was during the course of this festival that I'd met Chef Sabyasachi Gorai (a.k.a. Chef Saby).
I did a sponsored Instagram post for 'Rent a Closet', a site that allows you to choose from a wide variety of luxury designer brands of national and international repute.
In February, I attended the only Indiblogger meet held in Delhi last year to promote Berger Express Painting. I also traveled to Bangalore to be a part of the Seventh Annual tcworld India Conference that took place on February 23–24 at ITC Gardenia.
I promoted Zurie Design Studio, a luxury marketplace for ethnic and handcrafted artificial jewelry when they'd launched their first outlet in February at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Paschim Vihar.
The highlight of February was a gala 'Dine with Royalty' event hosted at the Embassy of Belgium on February 25. The event showcased the culinary delights of India with the members and representatives from 50 erstwhile royal families of India and about 20 embassy representatives. Food from the Rampur and Kangra royal kitchens was served, followed by an enthralling session of soulful music by Nizami Brothers, reliving the magic of the era gone by.
March
In March, I covered the Yin and Yang festival at the Empress of China restaurant in Eros Hotel Delhi. Through this food promotion activity, I got a bird's eye view of the Cantonese and Sichuan cuisines.
I also wrote a blog post on Taksim, which offers the best of world cuisine, with a special focus on Turkish and Indian food.
I was the official blogger at the 12th Culinary Art India event where more than 300 national level senior and apprentice chefs had participated to exhibit their culinary skills to the public.
I covered the first edition of the Arunachal Pradesh Tourism Conclave at Hotel Leela Palace, Delhi.
On my Instagram page, I promoted premium tea blends and tisanes from Rangsaa.
Other F&B properties promoted on Instagram included the likes of Biryani Art, Mother India, Me Kong Bowl, Cafe Sweet Obsession, Old School Brewhouse, AMPM, Sushi Haus, Papaya, The Classroom, Nukkadwala, India On My Plate restaurant at Fortune Select Excalibur Hotel, etc. I also promoted the "All You Can Eat" menu from Johnny Rockets.
The highlight of March was a B2B roadshow organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala. Through my social posts, I was able to introduce new initiatives, experiences, and attractions that Kerala has in store for visitors.
Another highlight was the coverage of Namaste Thailand Festival 2017 from March 3 to 5 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and India.
April
In April, I wrote a blog post on Nagai, a new fine-dining property in Gurgaon that specializes in contemporary Japanese cuisine and Sake bar.
My second blog post was about Baris, a new fine-dining restaurant where you can experience authentic and traditional Turkish cuisine blended in deep Mediterranean flavors.
The third blog post I published was about the AMPM Cafe and Bar, which offers innovative casual and comfort food, taking into account the best of Continental, American, Mexican, Italian, and Indian fusion cuisines.
My fourth blog post was about Jom Jom Malay, the first Malaysian restaurant of its kind to open up in the newly resuscitated Ansal Plaza, Khel Gaon Marg, Delhi.
One of my favorite posts in April featured Andrea's Eatery, a modern yet classic European bistro in the heart of Select Citywalk mall, Delhi.
I also wrote about the much-awaited sixth edition of India Internet Day, held on April 7 at Hotel Taj Palace, New Delhi.
On my Instagram page, I promoted F&B properties like The Junction, Bronx Brewery and Bar Exchange, Uncultured Cafe and Bar, The GT Road, Chai Point, etc.
The highlight of April was the magnificent Kolkata Food Festival, organized at the Dilli 32 restaurant of The Leela Ambience Delhi Convention Hotel. Patrons like myself visit the hotel time and again just to get a touch of class and grandeur, and festivals like these provide all the more reason to be there.
May
In the month of May, I traveled to the US to present a paper on 'How Social Media Can Be Part of Your Set of Technical Communication Skills' at the 64th STC Summit in Washington, DC. I also accepted the Gold Community Award on behalf of the STC India Chapter from Adriane Hunt (immediate past president of the STC) and Alyssa Fox (current president of the STC) at the Honors Reception.
June
In June, I wrote a blog post on Lady Baga, Olive's newest kid on the block which is thoroughly Goan in spirit, at heart, and in kitchen - a place so quirky, you just cannot afford to miss!
I also reviewed a new boutique club called BED, located in the busy N Block market of Greater Kailash 1 Delhi.
On my Instagram page, I promoted F&B properties like Rule the Rolls, Jamie's Pizzeria, etc.
The highlight of June was an invitation by the Best Western Resort Country Club in Manesar.
July
In July, I wrote a series of three blog posts covering the Grand Finale of the 3rd PNB MetLife Junior Badminton Championship (JBC 3) as an official blogger. The sports event was sponsored by PNB MetLife, one of India's leading life insurance companies and organized by SARA Foundation, an organization for the promotion of Sports, Education and Culture (SEC) globally.
I reviewed the Hawaiian theme brunch at Pavilion 75, WelcomHotel Dwarka's stylish round-the-clock restaurant.
Other F&B properties reviewed on the blog were Instapizza (a new pizza delivery concept with stores across Gurgaon, Delhi, and Noida), Majeed's (a new Mughlai takeaway and delivery outlet in Gurgaon), and two unique ice-cream cafes by the name of Fumo Creams and Ice Pan Creamery.
I covered the 8th Jagran Film Festival held at the Siri Fort Auditorium, Delhi from July 1 to 5. It was here that I got to meet Rishi Kapoor, famous Indian film actor, producer, and director known for his works in Hindi cinema.
I wrote a sponsored post on Artisans, Dwarka's first premium concept salon, makeup studio and academy, which was launched on July 9.
I was part of the media delegation at RISE 2017, which was held in Hong Kong from July 11 to 13. RISE is the largest and most exciting tech conference in Asia.
I covered the Delhi Regional Casting of Elite Model Look India 2017 and interviewed jury which included the likes of Supermodel Diandra Soares, model and actor Marc Robinson, fashion editor Vinod Nair, and fashion designer Rina Dhaka.
The highlight of July was my coverage of the International Street Food Fiesta at Mosaic - a multi-cuisine, all-day dining restaurant located in the lobby of Crowne Plaza hotel in Rohini, New Delhi.
August
In August, I was swamped with blogging projects from Trabug (India's first travel phone available to inbound tourists for rent, with delivery and pickup included), Pitstop BrewPub by SMAAASH (a new bar and restaurant with a microbrewery in Sector 29 Gurgaon), Chaayos (one of the most cherished Chai Cafe brands in Delhi-NCR), Hyper Local (a new multistoried thematic restaurant in SDA market, Delhi), Sasuraal (an Indian specialty restaurant in Sector 29 Gurgaon), and Sumeru Classiques Paratha 2.0 (a new range of frozen parathas from Innovative Foods Limited, one of the Top 4 Frozen Food Brands in the country).
I interviewed the gorgeous Mrs. Earth 2015 winner Priyanka Khurana Goyal at Khwaish - The Rav Fashions exhibition. Priyanka represented India at the Mrs. Earth 2015 pageant at the Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa on October 18, 2015. The pageant hosted contestants from 20 countries, who participated in various rounds like personal interview, evening gown, and high fashion modeling.
The highlight of August was meeting and interviewing the star cast of the Bollywood flick, Baadshaho, including Ajay Devgn, Ileana D'Cruz, Emraan Hashmi, and Esha Gupta. Baadshaho was a period heist action thriller set in the emergency era of 1975-77, written by Rajat Arora and directed and co-produced by Milan Luthria.
Another highlight was my coverage of Kidzania, a global indoor theme park for families that emulates the workings of a real city built-to-scale for kids.
September
In September, I did a story on Trend Bar and Kitchen - a newly opened casual dining restaurant in Ansal Plaza Delhi. This was followed by a feature on Wildfire, the only Brazilian Churrascaria in North India.
On my Instagram page, I posted about a chance meeting with Masterchef Vikas Khanna, who I met at the 'Cook for Smile' event, organized in support of Nutrition for Children.
I also posted about a High Tea Party with Chef Saransh Goila (courtesy: Olives From Spain) at Villa Serenity. Not only did I learn how to marinade olives using Indian condiments such as Idli Gunpowder (Molagapodi), it was a culinary treat to see Chef Saransh teach how to cook two mouth-watering Indian recipes namely Olives and Jackfruit Birjani and Mustard Prawns with Olive Rice Poha.
I also attended exclusive launch events for brands like MyTravelPie, 3X3 'Road to Mexico' basketball, Wonderchef (for their first brand store in North India), Housefull (Ramola Bachchan's Home Decor Show), ASUS 'Beyond The Edge' (to launch ZenBook UX430 - the thinnest-ever ZenBook with discrete graphics and VivoBook S15 - their latest flagship mainstream notebook), etc.
I attended the launch event of the Pop Smart TV, a 'Make in India' initiative from leading Smart TV manufacturer VU Luxury Televisions. At the event, Devita Saraf, CEO and Design Head at VU Luxury Televisions, announced a quiz contest. Up for grabs was a brand new 43" Pop Smart TV worth ₹ 41,999. And guess what, who was declared the winner? Who else but yours truly!
The highlight of September was my coverage of two leading food festivals - the Sizzlers and Beer Festival at Olive Bistro Gurgaon and the Dakshin Food Festival at Crowne Plaza New Delhi Rohini.
Another highlight was my coverage of Chicco - one of the biggest global baby care brands from Italy.
October
In October, I wrote a blog post on Gola Sizzlers - Delhi's Oldest Sizzler Makers.
This month one of my favorite restaurants at The Bristol - Palmyra - was relaunched after undergoing a massive revamp. To kick things off in style, Executive Chef Anil Dahiya hosted an exclusive Masterclass for patrons at Palmyra. I covered the masterclass and wrote a blog post on Palmyra - the all-day dining multi-cuisine restaurant at The Bristol.
I also wrote blog posts on Mr. Mamagoto (Mamagoto's new cousin in town who's slightly sophisticated still fully quirky), Twist (a vibrant Pan-Asian Bistro located in DLF Cyber City, Gurgaon), Oh So Stoned! (a new dessert parlor in DLF Cyber Hub Gurgaon), and Arriba (Delhi's first Mexican Grill and Tequilieria).
Apart from the F&B stories, I also shared my perspective on Vodafone's super initiatives for the betterment of Delhi-NCR and Cashify, which is the best online platform to sell your old or used gadgets.
My Instagram page was abuzz over the coverage of Lager N Barrel Festival (hailed as Gurgaon’s first music and beer festival, sponsored by Gaana.com and Carling -Britain's favorite lager). Other promotions in October included a masterclass on the newest fashion trends for women by Priyanka Kapadia, Senior Fashion Editor, Vogue India at the overview of Massimo Dutti Autumn-Winter 2017 Collection. The event was held at the Massimo Dutti store in DLF Mall of India.
I interviewed Yangdup Lama (mixologist and entrepreneur who heads Cocktails & Dreams, Speakeasy, one of the best bars in Gurgaon) and Parul Pratap (professional food stylist and food blogger) who curated special cocktails at Molecule, the official bar partner for Asian Hawkers Market last year.
The highlight of October was covering the Tomorrow's India Global Summit - an annual summit which sparks your imagination, inspires empathy, celebrates art, culture, and history, bridges the familiar with the unfamiliar, promotes business ideas, empowers knowledge, and enlivens young intellectual minds. Basically, a summit that encourages you to think for a 'Better India, Better Future'.
Another highlight was my talk on 'Don't Quit Your Job To Travel' at the 4th edition of #JustGoDelhi. This event was organized by F5 Escapes on October 14 at the Kunzum Travel Cafe.
November
In November, I wrote blog posts on Burma Burma (a new, wholesome and innovative casual dining Burmese restaurant in Gurgaon), SodaBottleOpenerWala (your Quintessential Bombay Irani Café and Bar), Gung The Palace (a casual dining restaurant in Sector 29, Gurgaon), Nueva (a new South American/Peruvian fine-dining restaurant in Delhi), TGI Friday's (an American restaurant chain focused on casual dining), and Saints 'N' Sinners (a new restro-bar in Global Foyer Mall, Golf Course Road, Gurgaon).
November started on a wonderful note as I was chosen as the official blogger for the 'Delhi Times Lifestyle Week 2017' held in association with Kohler and Panasonic Beauty.
I interviewed the crème-de-la-crème of the fashion and lifestyle world such as Diana Penty (Bollywood star and model), Evelyn Lakshmi Sharma (German model and actress), Rocky S (fashion designer), Mandira Wirk (fashion designer), Sana Dua (1st runner-up at Femina Miss India 2017), etc.
In another event, I met and interviewed popular Bollywood actor Vivek Oberoi, who has invested in a 'food on move' company, IchakDana LLP.
I also covered the first ever Seoul-India Friendship Festival organized by the Seoul Metropolitan Government at Cyber Hub, Gurgaon on November 8 and 9.
When Kingdom of Dreams (KoD) introduced 'Theater on Ice' for the first time in India, I was the first one to cover it on my Instagram page.
Ditto for the launch of Argentina's National drink 'Yerba Mate Tea' in India, where I'd interviewed tea sommelier Anamika Singh.
I promoted The Indian Luxury Expo, which is a two-day extravaganza held in the Kingdom of Dreams Gurgaon on November 18 - 19. The expo brings together leading luxury brands across 20 lifestyle segments to an elite and discerning target audience.
I even promoted Belgium based brand Deceuninck's first experiential store in Delhi. Deceuninck deals in UPVC Door and Window System, and with its first experiential store, the brand is eyeing to expand its footprint in the Indian Renovation and Individual Home Owners market.
I attended the Signature Start-up Master Class Season 2 with Boman Irani, who is an Indian film and theater actor, voice artist, and photographer of Parsi Irani descent.
In November, I joined an enlightening evening of wine tasting with French Winemaker Patrick Clerget at the Leela Gurgaon. Patrick introduced eight different wines under the aegis of Patrick Clerget in association with Lakeforest Wines.
It was a dream come true to see and hear the Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar live in person at the newly launched SMAAASH - India's most popular urban sports park - in Ambience Malls, Vasant Kunj.
The highlight of November was interviewing Rannvijay Singha, an Indian television host, film actor, and presenter, best known for hosting the adventure reality TV show, MTV Roadies.
Rannvijay was flown from Mumbai to host two-time Formula 1 World Champion, Mika Hakkinen at Ambience Island. Mika drove the Caparo T1 in support of Johnnie Walker The Journey's #JoinThePact initiative.
Another highlight was my visit to the ISKCON Food Relief Foundation in Palwal Haryana on Saturday, November 18, 2017. The trip was first of its kind, aimed to witness how large quantity of sattvic food is prepared in ISKCON's mega kitchen.
December
In December, I wrote blog posts on Gurgaon Pub Exchange (Cyber Hub's most pocket-friendly bar), Spice Art (a specialty fine-dining restaurant at Hotel Crowne Plaza New Delhi Rohini), Tea Street (a new venture from Mittal Teas, a 60-year-old brand known to bring the finest qualities of tea, herbs, and spices - with lingering taste, full-bodied flavor, and seductive aroma), Cafe Hawkers (a new casual dining restaurant in Ansal Plaza Delhi), and Cafe Delhi Heights (a new casual/comfort food dining restaurant in Connaught Place, Delhi).
I interviewed Darshan Raval who is a Singer, Composer, Lyricist, Actor, Performer, Artist, Musician, and Public Figure. Darshan visited the Airtel HQ in Gurgaon to celebrate the success of his new single 'Tera Zikr' which was promoted by Wynk Music app and is now #4 on the charts. On YouTube, the song has been viewed over 14 million times.
I also covered the launch of Apollo Munich's WINSURE, a new category in health insurance by launching first-of-its-kind Health Wallet plan. Bollywood actor Farhan Akhtar is appointed as the brand ambassador for the company.
I walked the yellow carpet at Smile International Film Festival for Children & Youth (SIFFCY), a unique platform to encourage and support the growing interest in meaningful cinema among young, aspiring, independent people without any favoritism.
I interviewed MasterChef Vikas Khanna yet again when he was in Delhi to unveil the new frost-free range of refrigerators from LG Electronics, powered by Linear Cooling Technology.
I also interviewed actor, model, singer, and drag queen Sushant Divgikar, who was crowned as Mr. Gay India 2014 and immensely popular for his participation in Bigg Boss season 8. Sushant participated in Kitty Su presents "Under the Rainbow" - India's first ever-fashion show featuring Transgender Models, Drag Queens and People with Disability.
In the same event, I interviewed Nitasha Biswas, a trans woman who hails from Kolkata, who was crowned the first Miss Transqueen India.
The highlight of December was to meet Priyanka Chopra in person. Priyanka is an Indian actress, singer, film producer, philanthropist, and the winner of the Miss World 2000 pageant. She was speaking at The Penguin Annual Lecture 2017 and the topic of her talk was 'Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Chasing a Dream'.
Thanks to all those who have continued to support my blogging journey in 2017.
[If you wish to collaborate with me on a blogging/social media project, feel free to drop an email at prabhakar.rahul@gmail.com or call 9958750992.]
The festival took place along the banks of the river Mandovi in Panaji, Goa last year from December 15 to December 22.
I covered the third edition of the PNB Metlife Junior Badminton Championship (JBC 3) held at the Thyagaraj Sports Complex, New Delhi, from July 26 to July 28. The JBC 3 tournament is pegged as the biggest national open-platform for promoting badminton at the grassroots level for school children, including the underprivileged. Over the years, the tournament has grown significantly and hosted over 15,000 children cumulatively from all three seasons.
That wasn't all!
My blog was listed as one of the Top 300 blogs in the 7th edition of the Directory of Best Indian Blogs, published every year since 2011. Yours truly also featured among the Top 200 Outstanding Content Experience Strategists for 2017.
I will fondly remember 2017 for two major international conferences I was privileged to be a part of. In May, I was invited to present a paper on 'How Social Media Can Be Part of Your Set of Technical Communication Skills' at the 64th STC Summit in Washington, DC.
Two months later, I was part of the media delegation at RISE 2017, which was held in Hong Kong from July 11 to July 13. RISE is produced by the same team that is behind the Web Summit. In six short years, Web Summit has become Europe's largest tech conference which last year attracted 53,000 attendees from 136 countries around the world.
I felt a great sense of accomplishment last year to see my name in print. My article on 'How social media can be part of your set of tc skills' was published in the July edition of the tcworld magazine, tekom's English language magazine on international information management. I was also featured in ET Panache - the lifestyle supplement of The Economic Times, published on August 25, 2017.
In several ways, last year was all about pushing boundaries and exploring my real potential. I conducted a half-day training on Influencer Marketing in April to a small yet engaged audience.
The success of this training encouraged me to conduct another half-day training - on Media Relations this time - at Chicco India's head office in Gurgaon on August 1, 2017. Chicco is a premium Italian brand with nearly sixty years of worldwide expertise, offering a wide range of baby products in India related to feeding, baby toiletries, travel, toys, etc.
Here is a recap of the year gone by for me.
January
In the month of January, I wrote a blog post on Prankster, which is India's first food and brewery campus. I also wrote three detailed stories on Pier 38 Bar and Kitchen, Soi 7 Pub and Brewery, and Circus.
My Instagram followers were agog over my posts on Cafe Gatherings, Nosh, Agent Jack's Bidding Bar, Warehouse Cafe, Flying Saucer Cafe, Chocolate Desire, Smokey's BBQ and Grill, 18+ Cafe and Lounge, Feel Alive, Noorjahan restaurant, Farzi Cafe, etc.
I covered the sixth edition of the World Children Expo, India's first integrated children event, which since 2012 has attracted over 100,000 visitors and marquee children brands such as Disney, Cartoon Network, POGO, ZeeQ, Nickelodeon, Discovery Channel Networks, Microsoft Xbox, etc.
The highlight of January was a chance meeting with MasterChef Sanjeev Kapoor and a visit to Anna Maya Delhi, India's first European food hall promoting mindful eating.
February
February was a rather slow month as far as the blog was concerned. I only managed to publish two stories on the blog; however, my Instagram page was abuzz over my coverage of F&B properties like Khaaja Chowk, Nukkad Cafe, Guppy, t Lounge by Dilmah, Cafe Southall, Vega, Paan Singh, Goldfinch Hotel, Nariyal Cafe, Zaffran, Norenj, Brauhaus, Butterfly Lounge and Bar, etc.
I blogged about Pling, which is the most vibrant lux-lounge at Pullman New Delhi. My second blog post in February was about a tea tasting session hosted by Teamonk Global at the DLF Club 5 in Gurgaon.
I was the official blogger at the Lloyd Palate Fest 2017. It was during the course of this festival that I'd met Chef Sabyasachi Gorai (a.k.a. Chef Saby).
I did a sponsored Instagram post for 'Rent a Closet', a site that allows you to choose from a wide variety of luxury designer brands of national and international repute.
In February, I attended the only Indiblogger meet held in Delhi last year to promote Berger Express Painting. I also traveled to Bangalore to be a part of the Seventh Annual tcworld India Conference that took place on February 23–24 at ITC Gardenia.
I promoted Zurie Design Studio, a luxury marketplace for ethnic and handcrafted artificial jewelry when they'd launched their first outlet in February at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Paschim Vihar.
The highlight of February was a gala 'Dine with Royalty' event hosted at the Embassy of Belgium on February 25. The event showcased the culinary delights of India with the members and representatives from 50 erstwhile royal families of India and about 20 embassy representatives. Food from the Rampur and Kangra royal kitchens was served, followed by an enthralling session of soulful music by Nizami Brothers, reliving the magic of the era gone by.
March
In March, I covered the Yin and Yang festival at the Empress of China restaurant in Eros Hotel Delhi. Through this food promotion activity, I got a bird's eye view of the Cantonese and Sichuan cuisines.
I also wrote a blog post on Taksim, which offers the best of world cuisine, with a special focus on Turkish and Indian food.
I was the official blogger at the 12th Culinary Art India event where more than 300 national level senior and apprentice chefs had participated to exhibit their culinary skills to the public.
I covered the first edition of the Arunachal Pradesh Tourism Conclave at Hotel Leela Palace, Delhi.
On my Instagram page, I promoted premium tea blends and tisanes from Rangsaa.
Other F&B properties promoted on Instagram included the likes of Biryani Art, Mother India, Me Kong Bowl, Cafe Sweet Obsession, Old School Brewhouse, AMPM, Sushi Haus, Papaya, The Classroom, Nukkadwala, India On My Plate restaurant at Fortune Select Excalibur Hotel, etc. I also promoted the "All You Can Eat" menu from Johnny Rockets.
The highlight of March was a B2B roadshow organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala. Through my social posts, I was able to introduce new initiatives, experiences, and attractions that Kerala has in store for visitors.
Another highlight was the coverage of Namaste Thailand Festival 2017 from March 3 to 5 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and India.
April
In April, I wrote a blog post on Nagai, a new fine-dining property in Gurgaon that specializes in contemporary Japanese cuisine and Sake bar.
My second blog post was about Baris, a new fine-dining restaurant where you can experience authentic and traditional Turkish cuisine blended in deep Mediterranean flavors.
The third blog post I published was about the AMPM Cafe and Bar, which offers innovative casual and comfort food, taking into account the best of Continental, American, Mexican, Italian, and Indian fusion cuisines.
My fourth blog post was about Jom Jom Malay, the first Malaysian restaurant of its kind to open up in the newly resuscitated Ansal Plaza, Khel Gaon Marg, Delhi.
One of my favorite posts in April featured Andrea's Eatery, a modern yet classic European bistro in the heart of Select Citywalk mall, Delhi.
I also wrote about the much-awaited sixth edition of India Internet Day, held on April 7 at Hotel Taj Palace, New Delhi.
On my Instagram page, I promoted F&B properties like The Junction, Bronx Brewery and Bar Exchange, Uncultured Cafe and Bar, The GT Road, Chai Point, etc.
The highlight of April was the magnificent Kolkata Food Festival, organized at the Dilli 32 restaurant of The Leela Ambience Delhi Convention Hotel. Patrons like myself visit the hotel time and again just to get a touch of class and grandeur, and festivals like these provide all the more reason to be there.
May
In the month of May, I traveled to the US to present a paper on 'How Social Media Can Be Part of Your Set of Technical Communication Skills' at the 64th STC Summit in Washington, DC. I also accepted the Gold Community Award on behalf of the STC India Chapter from Adriane Hunt (immediate past president of the STC) and Alyssa Fox (current president of the STC) at the Honors Reception.
June
In June, I wrote a blog post on Lady Baga, Olive's newest kid on the block which is thoroughly Goan in spirit, at heart, and in kitchen - a place so quirky, you just cannot afford to miss!
I also reviewed a new boutique club called BED, located in the busy N Block market of Greater Kailash 1 Delhi.
On my Instagram page, I promoted F&B properties like Rule the Rolls, Jamie's Pizzeria, etc.
The highlight of June was an invitation by the Best Western Resort Country Club in Manesar.
July
In July, I wrote a series of three blog posts covering the Grand Finale of the 3rd PNB MetLife Junior Badminton Championship (JBC 3) as an official blogger. The sports event was sponsored by PNB MetLife, one of India's leading life insurance companies and organized by SARA Foundation, an organization for the promotion of Sports, Education and Culture (SEC) globally.
I reviewed the Hawaiian theme brunch at Pavilion 75, WelcomHotel Dwarka's stylish round-the-clock restaurant.
Other F&B properties reviewed on the blog were Instapizza (a new pizza delivery concept with stores across Gurgaon, Delhi, and Noida), Majeed's (a new Mughlai takeaway and delivery outlet in Gurgaon), and two unique ice-cream cafes by the name of Fumo Creams and Ice Pan Creamery.
I covered the 8th Jagran Film Festival held at the Siri Fort Auditorium, Delhi from July 1 to 5. It was here that I got to meet Rishi Kapoor, famous Indian film actor, producer, and director known for his works in Hindi cinema.
I wrote a sponsored post on Artisans, Dwarka's first premium concept salon, makeup studio and academy, which was launched on July 9.
I was part of the media delegation at RISE 2017, which was held in Hong Kong from July 11 to 13. RISE is the largest and most exciting tech conference in Asia.
I covered the Delhi Regional Casting of Elite Model Look India 2017 and interviewed jury which included the likes of Supermodel Diandra Soares, model and actor Marc Robinson, fashion editor Vinod Nair, and fashion designer Rina Dhaka.
The highlight of July was my coverage of the International Street Food Fiesta at Mosaic - a multi-cuisine, all-day dining restaurant located in the lobby of Crowne Plaza hotel in Rohini, New Delhi.
August
In August, I was swamped with blogging projects from Trabug (India's first travel phone available to inbound tourists for rent, with delivery and pickup included), Pitstop BrewPub by SMAAASH (a new bar and restaurant with a microbrewery in Sector 29 Gurgaon), Chaayos (one of the most cherished Chai Cafe brands in Delhi-NCR), Hyper Local (a new multistoried thematic restaurant in SDA market, Delhi), Sasuraal (an Indian specialty restaurant in Sector 29 Gurgaon), and Sumeru Classiques Paratha 2.0 (a new range of frozen parathas from Innovative Foods Limited, one of the Top 4 Frozen Food Brands in the country).
I interviewed the gorgeous Mrs. Earth 2015 winner Priyanka Khurana Goyal at Khwaish - The Rav Fashions exhibition. Priyanka represented India at the Mrs. Earth 2015 pageant at the Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa on October 18, 2015. The pageant hosted contestants from 20 countries, who participated in various rounds like personal interview, evening gown, and high fashion modeling.
The highlight of August was meeting and interviewing the star cast of the Bollywood flick, Baadshaho, including Ajay Devgn, Ileana D'Cruz, Emraan Hashmi, and Esha Gupta. Baadshaho was a period heist action thriller set in the emergency era of 1975-77, written by Rajat Arora and directed and co-produced by Milan Luthria.
Another highlight was my coverage of Kidzania, a global indoor theme park for families that emulates the workings of a real city built-to-scale for kids.
September
In September, I did a story on Trend Bar and Kitchen - a newly opened casual dining restaurant in Ansal Plaza Delhi. This was followed by a feature on Wildfire, the only Brazilian Churrascaria in North India.
On my Instagram page, I posted about a chance meeting with Masterchef Vikas Khanna, who I met at the 'Cook for Smile' event, organized in support of Nutrition for Children.
I also posted about a High Tea Party with Chef Saransh Goila (courtesy: Olives From Spain) at Villa Serenity. Not only did I learn how to marinade olives using Indian condiments such as Idli Gunpowder (Molagapodi), it was a culinary treat to see Chef Saransh teach how to cook two mouth-watering Indian recipes namely Olives and Jackfruit Birjani and Mustard Prawns with Olive Rice Poha.
I also attended exclusive launch events for brands like MyTravelPie, 3X3 'Road to Mexico' basketball, Wonderchef (for their first brand store in North India), Housefull (Ramola Bachchan's Home Decor Show), ASUS 'Beyond The Edge' (to launch ZenBook UX430 - the thinnest-ever ZenBook with discrete graphics and VivoBook S15 - their latest flagship mainstream notebook), etc.
I attended the launch event of the Pop Smart TV, a 'Make in India' initiative from leading Smart TV manufacturer VU Luxury Televisions. At the event, Devita Saraf, CEO and Design Head at VU Luxury Televisions, announced a quiz contest. Up for grabs was a brand new 43" Pop Smart TV worth ₹ 41,999. And guess what, who was declared the winner? Who else but yours truly!
The highlight of September was my coverage of two leading food festivals - the Sizzlers and Beer Festival at Olive Bistro Gurgaon and the Dakshin Food Festival at Crowne Plaza New Delhi Rohini.
Another highlight was my coverage of Chicco - one of the biggest global baby care brands from Italy.
October
In October, I wrote a blog post on Gola Sizzlers - Delhi's Oldest Sizzler Makers.
This month one of my favorite restaurants at The Bristol - Palmyra - was relaunched after undergoing a massive revamp. To kick things off in style, Executive Chef Anil Dahiya hosted an exclusive Masterclass for patrons at Palmyra. I covered the masterclass and wrote a blog post on Palmyra - the all-day dining multi-cuisine restaurant at The Bristol.
I also wrote blog posts on Mr. Mamagoto (Mamagoto's new cousin in town who's slightly sophisticated still fully quirky), Twist (a vibrant Pan-Asian Bistro located in DLF Cyber City, Gurgaon), Oh So Stoned! (a new dessert parlor in DLF Cyber Hub Gurgaon), and Arriba (Delhi's first Mexican Grill and Tequilieria).
Apart from the F&B stories, I also shared my perspective on Vodafone's super initiatives for the betterment of Delhi-NCR and Cashify, which is the best online platform to sell your old or used gadgets.
My Instagram page was abuzz over the coverage of Lager N Barrel Festival (hailed as Gurgaon’s first music and beer festival, sponsored by Gaana.com and Carling -Britain's favorite lager). Other promotions in October included a masterclass on the newest fashion trends for women by Priyanka Kapadia, Senior Fashion Editor, Vogue India at the overview of Massimo Dutti Autumn-Winter 2017 Collection. The event was held at the Massimo Dutti store in DLF Mall of India.
I interviewed Yangdup Lama (mixologist and entrepreneur who heads Cocktails & Dreams, Speakeasy, one of the best bars in Gurgaon) and Parul Pratap (professional food stylist and food blogger) who curated special cocktails at Molecule, the official bar partner for Asian Hawkers Market last year.
The highlight of October was covering the Tomorrow's India Global Summit - an annual summit which sparks your imagination, inspires empathy, celebrates art, culture, and history, bridges the familiar with the unfamiliar, promotes business ideas, empowers knowledge, and enlivens young intellectual minds. Basically, a summit that encourages you to think for a 'Better India, Better Future'.
Another highlight was my talk on 'Don't Quit Your Job To Travel' at the 4th edition of #JustGoDelhi. This event was organized by F5 Escapes on October 14 at the Kunzum Travel Cafe.
November
In November, I wrote blog posts on Burma Burma (a new, wholesome and innovative casual dining Burmese restaurant in Gurgaon), SodaBottleOpenerWala (your Quintessential Bombay Irani Café and Bar), Gung The Palace (a casual dining restaurant in Sector 29, Gurgaon), Nueva (a new South American/Peruvian fine-dining restaurant in Delhi), TGI Friday's (an American restaurant chain focused on casual dining), and Saints 'N' Sinners (a new restro-bar in Global Foyer Mall, Golf Course Road, Gurgaon).
November started on a wonderful note as I was chosen as the official blogger for the 'Delhi Times Lifestyle Week 2017' held in association with Kohler and Panasonic Beauty.
I interviewed the crème-de-la-crème of the fashion and lifestyle world such as Diana Penty (Bollywood star and model), Evelyn Lakshmi Sharma (German model and actress), Rocky S (fashion designer), Mandira Wirk (fashion designer), Sana Dua (1st runner-up at Femina Miss India 2017), etc.
In another event, I met and interviewed popular Bollywood actor Vivek Oberoi, who has invested in a 'food on move' company, IchakDana LLP.
I also covered the first ever Seoul-India Friendship Festival organized by the Seoul Metropolitan Government at Cyber Hub, Gurgaon on November 8 and 9.
When Kingdom of Dreams (KoD) introduced 'Theater on Ice' for the first time in India, I was the first one to cover it on my Instagram page.
Ditto for the launch of Argentina's National drink 'Yerba Mate Tea' in India, where I'd interviewed tea sommelier Anamika Singh.
I promoted The Indian Luxury Expo, which is a two-day extravaganza held in the Kingdom of Dreams Gurgaon on November 18 - 19. The expo brings together leading luxury brands across 20 lifestyle segments to an elite and discerning target audience.
I even promoted Belgium based brand Deceuninck's first experiential store in Delhi. Deceuninck deals in UPVC Door and Window System, and with its first experiential store, the brand is eyeing to expand its footprint in the Indian Renovation and Individual Home Owners market.
I attended the Signature Start-up Master Class Season 2 with Boman Irani, who is an Indian film and theater actor, voice artist, and photographer of Parsi Irani descent.
In November, I joined an enlightening evening of wine tasting with French Winemaker Patrick Clerget at the Leela Gurgaon. Patrick introduced eight different wines under the aegis of Patrick Clerget in association with Lakeforest Wines.
It was a dream come true to see and hear the Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar live in person at the newly launched SMAAASH - India's most popular urban sports park - in Ambience Malls, Vasant Kunj.
The highlight of November was interviewing Rannvijay Singha, an Indian television host, film actor, and presenter, best known for hosting the adventure reality TV show, MTV Roadies.
Rannvijay was flown from Mumbai to host two-time Formula 1 World Champion, Mika Hakkinen at Ambience Island. Mika drove the Caparo T1 in support of Johnnie Walker The Journey's #JoinThePact initiative.
Another highlight was my visit to the ISKCON Food Relief Foundation in Palwal Haryana on Saturday, November 18, 2017. The trip was first of its kind, aimed to witness how large quantity of sattvic food is prepared in ISKCON's mega kitchen.
December
In December, I wrote blog posts on Gurgaon Pub Exchange (Cyber Hub's most pocket-friendly bar), Spice Art (a specialty fine-dining restaurant at Hotel Crowne Plaza New Delhi Rohini), Tea Street (a new venture from Mittal Teas, a 60-year-old brand known to bring the finest qualities of tea, herbs, and spices - with lingering taste, full-bodied flavor, and seductive aroma), Cafe Hawkers (a new casual dining restaurant in Ansal Plaza Delhi), and Cafe Delhi Heights (a new casual/comfort food dining restaurant in Connaught Place, Delhi).
I interviewed Darshan Raval who is a Singer, Composer, Lyricist, Actor, Performer, Artist, Musician, and Public Figure. Darshan visited the Airtel HQ in Gurgaon to celebrate the success of his new single 'Tera Zikr' which was promoted by Wynk Music app and is now #4 on the charts. On YouTube, the song has been viewed over 14 million times.
I also covered the launch of Apollo Munich's WINSURE, a new category in health insurance by launching first-of-its-kind Health Wallet plan. Bollywood actor Farhan Akhtar is appointed as the brand ambassador for the company.
I walked the yellow carpet at Smile International Film Festival for Children & Youth (SIFFCY), a unique platform to encourage and support the growing interest in meaningful cinema among young, aspiring, independent people without any favoritism.
I interviewed MasterChef Vikas Khanna yet again when he was in Delhi to unveil the new frost-free range of refrigerators from LG Electronics, powered by Linear Cooling Technology.
I also interviewed actor, model, singer, and drag queen Sushant Divgikar, who was crowned as Mr. Gay India 2014 and immensely popular for his participation in Bigg Boss season 8. Sushant participated in Kitty Su presents "Under the Rainbow" - India's first ever-fashion show featuring Transgender Models, Drag Queens and People with Disability.
In the same event, I interviewed Nitasha Biswas, a trans woman who hails from Kolkata, who was crowned the first Miss Transqueen India.
The highlight of December was to meet Priyanka Chopra in person. Priyanka is an Indian actress, singer, film producer, philanthropist, and the winner of the Miss World 2000 pageant. She was speaking at The Penguin Annual Lecture 2017 and the topic of her talk was 'Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Chasing a Dream'.
Thanks to all those who have continued to support my blogging journey in 2017.
[If you wish to collaborate with me on a blogging/social media project, feel free to drop an email at prabhakar.rahul@gmail.com or call 9958750992.]
Wow they all are such awesome achievements. It does look like 2017 was truly your year and you did a lot of things that were worth remembering. It’s great that you have penned them down too. Awesome.
ReplyDeleteI wish to achieve the same and write a blog.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations for the wonderful 2017 and may u keep reaching high.
Also, ur an inspiration for many.
Wow those are some awesome accomplishments. I wish I could even touch 1/4 of it. I'm new in the blogging world with just 2 years in it and still trying to expand and bloggers like you inspire and motivate to write better and grow.
ReplyDeleteThis is amazing! Kudos to you. Wishing you success in the coming years
ReplyDeleteYour accomplishments are really good.. And your hard work is worth it. You still have a long way to go. Good Luck!
ReplyDelete