Food

Tackling Food Waste In India: How These Organizations are making a difference

Food waste is one of the major issues in India. It is estimated that 67 million tons of food are wasted every year. It is almost equal to 40% of the country’s total food production. But the good news came in the form of organizations in India that are working towards reducing food waste by recovering surplus food and redistributing it to those in desperate need. Dhanush Kumar lists down some of the organizations and their amazing work.

1. Akshaya Patra Foundation

The Akshaya Patra Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides mid-day meals to school children across the country. The organization operates in almost 19 locations across 12 states in India and serves more than 1.8 million children every day. The meals are prepared in kitchens and transported to schools in vehicles. The foundation recovers surplus food from various sources and uses it to prepare meals.

Phone Number: 040 4003 1456

2. Feeding India

Feeding India is an NGO that works towards eradicating hunger and reducing food waste in the country. The organization has a wide network of over 23,000 volunteers who collect surplus food from various restaurants, corporate offices, and weddings and distribute it to those in need. The organization also runs community kitchens and food banks in various cities across the country.

Phone Number: 09871178810

3. Robin Hood Army

The Robin Hood Army is a volunteer-based organization that works towards eliminating hunger and food waste in India. The organization has a presence in over 200 cities and a wide network of over 50K volunteers. The volunteers call themselves “Robins” and they collect surplus food from restaurants and distribute it to those in need. It also runs community kitchens in various cities.

Phone Number: +91 89719 66164 (WhatsApp Only)

4. No Food Waste

No Food Waste is one of the most popular NGOs out there and it works towards reducing food waste in India. The organization has an ambitious network of volunteers who collect food from weddings, parties, and other events and distribute it to those in need. The organization also runs community fridges in various cities across the country, where people can donate and collect food.

Phone Number: 9866006269

5. Shuddhi NGO

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Shuddhi is one of the most popular NGOs in India. They are partnered with the National Geographic channel, the Government Of India, and others. The NGO works to support poor children living on the streets who do not have food, shelter, and education.

Phone Number: 09654815105

6. The Annakshetra foundation

The Annakshetra Foundation is an NGO that works towards reducing food waste and providing meals to communities in India. The organization collects surplus food from various sources and distributes it to orphanages, and other charitable organizations. They are not only reducing hunger but they are also addressing the issue of food waste.

Phone Number: 090012 95293

Conclusion

These are just a few of the many organizations in India that are working towards a great cause of reducing food waste and providing meals to those who are in need. If you are interested in doing charitable work or volunteering with them. You can call their numbers to learn more.

March 31, 2023

Celebrity Owned Restaurants Lighting Up Mumbai’s Dining Scene

Mumbai is known as the city of dreams, and that extends well beyond Bollywood and cricket into its glittering culinary landscape. A growing number of celebrities have ventured into hospitality, fusing their personal flair with luxury dining experiences. From heritage mansions to rooftop lounges, these celeb-owned restaurants offer more than just food—they serve style, exclusivity, and Instagram-worthy moments. Hashtag Magazines gives you a lowdown of Mumbai’s hottest celebrity-backed dining destinations. 1. One8 Commune – Juhu Owned by: Virat Kohli (Indian cricketer) In the heart of Juhu, One8 Commune brings together nostalgia and modernity. Set in the former bungalow of music legend Kishore Kumar, this restobar marries casual luxury with a buzzing energy. Virat Kohli’s personality is evident in every corner—from the bold art and neon signs to the laid-back yet upscale vibe. Cuisine: The menu offers a global tour with gourmet pizzas, Asian stir-fries, sliders, and indulgent desserts, complemented by signature cocktails. Ambience: Quirky, vibrant, and artsy, the space is perfect for brunches, late-night hangouts, and influencer meet-ups. The lush alfresco section is particularly popular for sunset selfies. Why go: Celebrity ownership, stylish interiors, and a well-executed menu make it one of Juhu’s trendiest spots. 2. Neuma – Colaba Owned by: Karan Johar (Filmmaker) True to Karan Johar’s flair for drama and design, Neuma is more than a restaurant—it’s a cinematic experience. Housed in a restored colonial bungalow in Colaba, the space is divided into multiple zones, each telling a different story. Cuisine: Modern European and Mediterranean, with dishes like truffle mushroom risotto, burrata salads, and an exquisite cocktail list. Ambiance: Whether you’re sipping in the Garden Café surrounded by greenery or enjoying a cocktail in the moody Rose Bar, every corner is designed for visual impact. Vintage chandeliers, velvet sofas, and curated dinnerware add to the charm. Why go:

Food

Latest Food Restaurants in India

What: Dessert Therapy launches its 5th outlet Where: Ghatkopar, MumbaiNestled in R City Mall, Ghatkopar, Dessert Therapy’s fifth outlet is a serene escape for Mumbai’s sweet-toothed souls. The minimalist black-and-brown interiors bring calm luxury, a signature touch of this design-led dessert chain. From the indulgent Mango Cheesecake to the tropical flair of the Pina Colada Cheesecake, each dessert is thoughtfully crafted and picture-perfect. The all-vegetarian menu spans over 20 cheesecakes, pancakes, and decadent specialities like Tiramisu and Churro Chips, making it a haven for both sit-down dessert dates and quick sweet cravings. The summer-exclusive Tropical Menu, with hits like Mango Matcha Latte and Hazelnut Praline & Mango Dark Chocolate Cake, is a standout. With dine-in, takeaway, and delivery options, Dessert Therapy remains a delightful escape where design meets dessert indulgence. A must-visit for dessert lovers! What: Samosa Singh ExpandsWhere: Delhi Samosa Singh has taken another delicious leap by opening new QSR outlets in Delhi, Noida, and Greater Noida, located at hotspots like Pacific Mall (NSP) and Bhutani City Centre. This much-loved brand is redefining Indian street food with a menu beyond samosas. While their signature Punjabi, Paneer Tikka, and Cheesy Corn samosas remain fan favourites, the menu also includes hearty Kachoris, Dahi Bhalla, Raj Kachori, Chole Kulche, and a variety of chaats, along with exciting fusion snacks like the Samosa Burger and Samosa Wraps. Each item is made with premium ingredients and deep-rooted flavours, blending tradition with innovation. Samosa Singh also offers healthier, baked options, appealing to the mindful eater. What: Dolci Brings a Taste of Europe to Lavelle Road Where: Bangalore Dolci’s newly launched premium outlet on Lavelle Road is a charming ode to European café culture, wrapped in Santorini-inspired aesthetics and warm hospitality. The café’s standout menu fuses classic European techniques with innovative twists—think Pain Au Chocolat with

Food

Beyond Coffee: 5 Hidden Gems Where Compassion Meets Culture in South Delhi

In the heart of South Delhi, away from the mainstream spotlight and curated Pinterest grids, lie special spaces pulsing with purpose. These aren’t just restaurants or art corners—they’re sanctuaries. Along with offering mouth-watering food and drinks that you just won’t be able to forget, these places dare to go above and beyond to offer safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community, donate to a larger cause, and empower people in their unique ways. Mehak Walia, on some of the most amazing hidden gems in South Delhi that are serving coffee and more, with beautiful causes! It’s quite safe to say that each one of these is a hidden gem, not just because they are roads less travelled, but also because they’re built on empathy and uniqueness. So, are you looking for a touch of kindness and peace with a side of acceptance and awesomeness in a city known for its active chaos? Read on to learn more about these must-visit places. 5 Hidden Gems Making a Difference: ‘Where silence speaks louder than words’ Tucked away in the bustling lanes of Kailash Colony, Echoes is not your usual café. Sure, it serves mouth-watering momos and indulgent shakes, but that’s not all, it’s also a space where empathy and expression go hand-in-hand (pun intended). This is because most of the team is hearing and speech-impaired, and yet, communication flows effortlessly, all thanks to a thoughtfully designed system of cue cards, sign language charts, and even light buzzers. Trust me, you wouldn’t be able to help loving the equalitarian message put across. It’s quite safe to say that the founders didn’t just build a business; they built a bridge. Dining here isn’t just about good food; it’s about feeling seen, heard, and being a part of something more. Don’t Miss: Pro-Tip: If you’re one

Food

Navara Red Rice: The Healing Grain of India

In the diverse world of Indian rice varieties, Navara Red Rice, also known as Navara or Navarra rice, stands out not only for its distinct reddish hue but also for its incredible health-boosting properties. Native to the southern state of Kerala, this ancient and medicinal variety of rice has been cherished for centuries in Ayurvedic practices and traditional wellness regimens. Hashtag Magazine shares the health benefits… What is Navara Red Rice? Navara is a unique heirloom variety of red rice indigenous to Kerala. It has a protected geographical indication (GI tag), ensuring its authenticity and preserving its heritage. Unlike common rice types, Navara has a short grain, is deep red in color due to its anthocyanin-rich bran, and is traditionally grown using organic methods. Often described as a “functional food,” Navara rice is not just a staple grain—it’s a therapeutic food often prescribed for convalescents, lactating mothers, and those with specific medical conditions. Health Benefits of Navara Red Rice 1. Natural Immunity Booster Navara rice is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support immune function. Its high polyphenol content helps the body fight oxidative stress and inflammation. 2. Rich in Iron – Great for Anemia One of the most celebrated health benefits of Navara rice is its high iron content. It is particularly beneficial for: 3. Ideal for Diabetes Management Navara rice has a low glycemic index, making it a better option for diabetics compared to white rice. It releases sugar slowly into the bloodstream, preventing spikes in blood glucose levels. 4. Gut-Friendly and Easily Digestible Unlike polished white rice, Navara retains its outer bran layer, which is rich in dietary fiber. This promotes: 5. Beneficial for Joint and Muscle Health According to Ayurvedic texts, Navara rice is used in Navarakizhi—a therapeutic massage involving a bolus of cooked Navara rice that is dipped in herbal decoction and milk. It’s