Dr. Zarine Manchanda: From Political Heritage to Personal Ambitions

Dr. Zarine Manchanda | CEO
Dr. Zarine Manchanda | CEO

The hospitality industry, known for its focus on providing exceptional experiences and services, has seen a remarkable evolution over the years. This sector, which includes everything from luxurious hotels and gourmet restaurants to charming cafes and unique dining experiences, has grown to become a significant player in the global economy. The industry’s core values revolve around customer satisfaction, attention to detail, and creating memorable moments for guests. As competition intensifies, businesses within this field continuously seek innovative ways to stand out, blending comfort, luxury, and personalized service to cater to a diverse clientele.

Dr. Zarine Manchanda, the CEO, has made a significant impact in the hospitality industry with her unique approach to hospitality. Her leadership has been instrumental in shaping and expanding the reach of her ventures. Known for her commitment to excellence, she has successfully introduced new concepts that resonate with both domestic and international audiences. Dr. Manchanda’s vision and dedication have helped elevate the standards of service and luxury within the sector, reflecting her deep understanding of market trends and consumer preferences.

Zarine Manchanda Company has emerged as a prominent player in the hospitality industry, offering unique high-end offerings and innovative approaches that set new benchmarks in luxury and service. From elegant cafes to exclusive dining experiences, the company’s blend of sophistication and charm appeals to a wide range of customers. Its commitment to excellence is evident in its meticulously crafted environments and personalized services, establishing it as a leader in redefining luxury in hospitality.

Let’s delve in to learn more about the transformative leadership:

Early Life and Ambitions

Zarine Manchanda was born and raised in a prominent political family near Dharamshala in Himachal Pradesh. As the daughter of a Minister and a successful businessman, she grew up in close proximity to the home of the Dalai Lama.

Pursuing a Dream

After completing her university education, Zarine moved to Mumbai with aspirations of becoming an actress. Despite facing numerous challenges in the glamour industry, her struggle eventually led her to a dramatic and life-changing career shift.

Charitable Endeavors

In 2019, Zarine established the Zarine Manchanda Foundation Aarey Colony in Mumbai to build her own political base. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic and related lockdowns, the Foundation successfully administered over 500 food and clothing donation programs in Aarey, earning a reputation as a top-rated and respected organization in Mumbai.

Hospitality Ventures

Capitalizing on her success in philanthropy, Zarine ventured into the hospitality industry by opening the luxurious Zarine Manchanda Café in Mumbai. The café, known for its slogan “Delicious, Luxurious Spiritual Charm,” features stylish décor and offers a unique experience with blessings for patrons and the ringing of Tibetan Bells from Dharamshala. Zarine Manchanda Interiors designed the café’s luxurious décor. She is now recognized as the founder of the 7-Star café experience in India and aims to expand the brand both nationally and internationally.

Recognitions and Awards

Zarine’s accomplishments have been widely recognized. She appeared on the cover of FEMINA magazine and was named one of the “Fabulous 50 Women” by Femina in 2020. Additionally, she was listed among India Today’s “45 Most Influential Indians” in their 45th-anniversary edition of 2020. Her contributions to business expansion and philanthropy were acknowledged with awards from the Economic Times and the Times of India, which honored her as a Young Philanthropist in January 2021.

Media Coverage and Titles

Due to her privileged background and outstanding charity work, Zarine has been labeled by India’s media as a “Princess of the Poor” and a potential “Mother to Millions,” drawing parallels to her role models, Princess Diana and Mother Teresa. In 2021, she was further honored with two National Awards for her exemplary work with the poor through her Foundation and received two Governor Awards from Bhagat Singh Koshyari, the Governor of Maharashtra.

International Recognition

In 2022, Zarine received the Nelson Mandela Peace Award, which included an honorary Doctorate Degree for her significant contributions to serving the poor and assisting India’s neediest through her Foundation’s programs. She was also awarded for her charity and philanthropic work at the All India Council on Human Rights & Social Justice in December 2022. That same year, she was honored with the “Power Woman Award” by Midday Magazine and named “Iconic Young Entrepreneur & Philanthropist of the Year” at the Governor’s House in Mumbai. She also received the “Young Entrepreneur of the Year” award in Delhi in March 2022, where she was a Guest of Honor.

Leadership and Appointments

Zarine’s substantial media coverage and achievements led to her appointment as Regional Director in Mumbai for BRICS, the prestigious geopolitical and economic trade organization. This appointment, made in December 2021 by the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, reflects her influence in fostering trade relations among Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. In June 2023, she was named Chairperson & Editor In Chief by India’s National Council of News & Broadcasting for Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, and Goa, overseeing issues related to press freedom, media reforms, human rights, and peace.

Fashion and New Ventures

Zarine showcased her diverse skills by featuring as a Showstopper at the Bombay Times Fashion Week Galas in December 2020 and October 2021. In 2022, she launched two new companies: “Heavenly Flavours,” a 7-star cloud kitchen and food delivery service, and Zarine Manchanda Premium Security Service, a 7-star security agency. She is notably the only woman to own a security services business in India.

Culinary Achievements

In 2023, Zarine opened Flavours of Himachal Pradesh, a 7-star restaurant in Mumbai, marking the city’s first Himachal restaurant. The restaurant specializes in Dham, a traditional vegetarian thali that is a culinary feast reflecting the rich history and traditions of Himachal Pradesh. The chefs, masters of Dham cooking, hail from Himachal Pradesh.

Political Aspirations

With her successful philanthropic and entrepreneurial ventures, Zarine is now focusing on her long-held political ambitions. She has launched The Zarine Manchanda People’s Party and plans to contest elections in Mumbai’s Andheri West area in April 2024. As a respected social activist and champion of the poor, Zarine aims to use her political platform to drive positive change, particularly for Mumbai’s poorest residents.