Brands
Cordelia Cruises commends PM Modi’s vision for Tamil Nadu’s development
Mumbai: Cordelia Cruises, a premium cruise line, commends the significant strides made in Tamil Nadu’s infrastructure and maritime sector, as highlighted by PM Narendra Modi during the inauguration ceremony of various developmental projects.
Under the visionary leadership of the PM and the unwavering support of the union minister of ports, shipping & waterways, and Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal, Cordelia Cruises is set to enhance India’s position on the global cruising map. Minister Sonowal’s strategic vision for cruise tourism has paved the way for monumental growth in the sector, emphasizing infrastructure upgrades, fee rationalisation, and improved passenger facilities. Cordelia Cruises is proud to be the pioneer of this transformative journey, further catalyzing Tamil Nadu’s progress with its expansion plans in cruise tourism.
Since 2021, Cordelia Cruises has welcomed 450,000 guests and successfully operated sailings from Mumbai, Kochi, and Goa to Lakshadweep, Chennai to Visakhapatnam, and Chennai to Sri Lanka. This year, the company is set to introduce Puducherry into its list of domestic destinations from Chennai, responding to the high demand for this route. Cordelia Cruises is committed to providing its guests with memorable experiences, showcasing the stunning coastal scenery of Tamil Nadu and beyond.
“At Cordelia Cruises, we are enthused to witness the significant progress and strategic vision PM Modi has unveiled for Tamil Nadu’s development. Our heartfelt appreciation goes to the Centre government and the ministry of ports, shipping & Waterways for their proactive efforts in advancing cruise tourism in India. We are committed to contributing to the realization of PM Modi’s Vision 2047 for waterways and cruise tourism. Dedicated to offering exceptional value to our passengers, creating job opportunities, and promoting sustainable tourism practices, we aim to propel India towards becoming a leading cruise destination by 2047.” Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt Ltd, Cordelia Cruises president and CEO Jurgen Bailom.
The launch of the first international cruise to Sri Lanka from Chennai last year and adding domestic cruises again this year marks a new era for the industry, showcasing Tamil Nadu’s potential as a burgeoning cruise destination. Cordelia Cruises is confident that its initiatives will not only bolster tourism but also create significant economic opportunities for the region.
Cordelia Cruises expresses gratitude for the support and proactive initiatives of the Tamil Nadu government, which have paved the way for its expansion and success. The company remains dedicated to providing unparalleled experiences to its guests while contributing to the socio-economic development of Tamil Nadu.
Brands
Devyani International names Sandeep Anand, Robinder Singh in key roles
Pizza Hut and Costa Coffee businesses see leadership refresh from April
MUMBAI: Devyani International has strengthened its senior leadership bench with a fresh set of appointments across its key brands, Pizza Hut and Costa Coffee, signalling a sharper focus on growth and brand momentum.
The company has appointed Sandeep Anand as chief marketing officer and business head for Pizza Hut. His appointment, approved by the board via a circular resolution on April 3, follows a recommendation by the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, as reported by CNBC-TV18. Anand will officially step into the role on April 6, 2026.
He takes over from Vijay Gogate, who currently serves as chief executive officer for Pizza Hut within the company’s operations. The move marks a strategic transition as the brand looks to sharpen its marketing and business playbook in a competitive quick service restaurant market.
Anand brings over two decades of experience across the food and FMCG sectors, with a strong track record in brand building and innovation. His career spans roles at major consumer-facing companies including Domino’s, Zydus Wellness, Zomato, GSK Consumer Healthcare, Reckitt and Ranbaxy, giving him a well-rounded perspective on both scale and agility.
Alongside this, Robinder Singh has been appointed business head for Costa Coffee and the company’s airport operations. He too will assume his new role on April 6, bringing more than 18 years of experience in operations, business expansion and customer experience transformation.
The twin appointments come at a time when Devyani International is doubling down on leadership depth to steer its portfolio through evolving consumer preferences and heightened competition. With fresh faces at the helm of two key verticals, the company appears set to brew up its next phase of growth with renewed energy.
