Tag: Rajat Agrawal

  • Going Nuts Over Coffee as Barista Brews a Pistachio Winter Treat

    Going Nuts Over Coffee as Barista Brews a Pistachio Winter Treat

    MUMBAI: If winter had a flavour, Barista Coffee Company has just bottled it or rather, brewed it. This festive season, India’s largest homegrown café chain is going green (and not just environmentally) with a campaign that’s as indulgent as it is inventive. Titled ‘Barista Stars’, the new menu is a celebration of pistachio, that little nut that packs a big punch of flavour and warmth, perfect for the nip in the air.

    The festive spread, launched across 485 outlets in 165 cities, is an ode to indulgence meeting mindfulness. Think Pistachio Affogato, Pistachio Latte, Pistachio Cream Croissant, and even a Pistachio Kunafa Cheesecake, a Middle Eastern twist that’s as photogenic as it is decadent. And just when you thought that was nutty enough, there’s also a Valencia Orange Hot Chocolate in the mix, bringing a citrusy zing to the otherwise cosy affair.

    The menu isn’t just a creative experiment, it’s a full-bodied experience designed around taste, texture, and balance. Each dish reflects Barista’s knack for blending international café aesthetics with Indian palates, marrying creamy indulgence with a hint of wellness.

    Speaking on the campaign, Barista Coffee Company CEO Rajat Agrawal said the winter menu symbolises Barista’s evolving philosophy premium coffee culture with a conscience. “With the onset of winter, we’re delighted to launch our new festive campaign ‘Barista Stars’. Pistachio’s distinctive richness and warmth perfectly complement the season,” he said. “Our goal is to offer customers a wholesome yet indulgent experience, a celebration of flavour without compromising on quality or well-being.”

    The menu, available across all cafés from 20 October 2025, extends beyond the cup, it’s a nod to craftsmanship and café culture as an experience rather than a pit stop.

    Founded in 2000, Barista Coffee Company has long been synonymous with India’s early tryst with coffeehouse culture. Before latte art became Instagram gold, Barista was already pouring stories in ceramic mugs. Over two decades later, it remains the country’s most prominent indigenous chain, one that’s expanded across India and Sri Lanka, carving a niche between global giants and local favourites.

    Today, Barista isn’t just selling coffee, it’s selling conversations, comfort, and community. Its cafés are as much about creative ambience as they are about caffeine fixes. With every menu refresh, the brand continues to redefine what “homegrown” can mean in an industry once dominated by imported tastes.

    The new menu underlines a shift in consumer trends from pure indulgence to mindful luxury. Pistachio, often hailed as the “wellness nut”, fits right in. It brings a guilt-free edge to desserts and beverages, a theme that Barista has consciously leaned into as it strengthens its “premium yet health-conscious” positioning.

    Every offering, from the buttery croissant to the velvety affogato, reflects an obsessive attention to detail not just in flavour profiles but in ingredient sourcing, presentation, and consistency across outlets. That consistency is what’s fuelled Barista’s expansion and made it a comfort brand for café-goers who crave familiarity with a twist.

    In many ways, the ‘Barista Stars’ campaign is more than a festive menu, it’s a brand statement. As India’s café culture matures, Barista seems intent on proving that creativity need not come with a foreign accent.

    The brand’s steady reinvention, whether through curated menus or customer-centric design, has kept it relevant in a crowded market where novelty often burns out faster than a coffee machine at rush hour.

    And while pistachio may be the flavour of the season, the real takeaway is Barista’s ability to balance indulgence with intent, a blend as satisfying as a perfectly poured latte.

    So, if you’re looking to sip something that tastes like winter wrapped in a velvet blanket, you know where to head. Because this season, Barista isn’t just brewing coffee, it’s brewing a mood.

     

  • Barista Coffee etches 25 years of brewing memories across India

    Barista Coffee etches 25 years of brewing memories across India

    MUMBAI: The homegrown pioneer of India’s café culture, Barista Coffee is celebrating its 25 anniversary on 28 February 2025. For over two decades, Barista has been serving up aromatic brews, nostalgic moments, and a sense of belonging, cementing its position as one of India’s most loved coffee chains. With 465+ outlets across India and beyond, the brand continues to redefine coffee experiences for every generation.

    To mark this milestone, Barista is treating its loyal customers with a special anniversary offer—free beverage upgrades from 28 February to 2 March. Adding to the celebration, the brand will unveil limited-edition anniversary coffee packs, blending nostalgia with innovation.

    Reflecting on this achievement, Barista Coffee CEO Rajat Agrawal expressed, “Celebrating 25 years is an incredible milestone for Barista Coffee. As India’s largest homegrown coffee chain, we have consistently evolved to keep pace with the ever-changing preferences of coffee lovers. Over the years, we have introduced innovative menus, unique campaigns, and experiences that resonate with generations. Barista Coffee is more than just a café—it’s a place where stories are brewed, friendships are forged, and memories are made. We are excited to continue this journey with the same passion and commitment.”

    Since its inception, Barista Coffee has been instrumental in shaping India’s coffee culture. Whether it’s a steaming cup of cappuccino on a busy morning or a relaxed evening with friends over a cold brew, the brand has been an integral part of countless moments.

    As Barista steps into its next chapter, it aims to further expand its footprint, introduce bold new flavours, and continue its mission of making coffee more than just a beverage—it’s a lifestyle. 

  • “Boonie Bears: Guardian Code” special screening held on Mother’s Day

    “Boonie Bears: Guardian Code” special screening held on Mother’s Day

    Mumbai: “Mother’s Day” celebrated at a special screening of “Boonie Bears: Guardian Code” kids’ film with moms & their children well-known mommy bloggers from Mumbai, New Delhi, Bangalore & Chennai treated themselves & their kids to a special siesta. This screening held in various multiplexes was a joyful ride & witnessed them taking selfies in various poses with the standees & backdrops of the film. They were so connected with the film that one can see them rooting for the 2 brothers fighting against all odds to get their lost mother back. In the end, some of them were noticed getting teary-eyed watching the brothers reunite with their mother.

    Critics from all the national publications and online-digital platforms have given good favourable reviews to the first-ever Boonie Bears film from the universally loved global franchisee to be released in Indian theatres.  

    “Boonie Bears – Guardian Code” is a cute alluring journey of two lovable Bear Cubs Briar & Bramble who have been living happily with their mother Barbara in the forest of Crystal Peaks until a devastating fire separates them from their mother. Many years later they get a mysterious clue about their mother being alive. Determined to unravel the mystery of her disappearance with grit & courage, the bear brothers ultimately emerge victorious by confronting the truth & rescuing her from the villains. The title of the Hindi version is called “ “Boonie Bears – Mumma Ki Khoj” & the Bear Cubs are called Bunnu & Munnu.

    This is the eleventh animation feature film from the globally beloved “Boonie Bears” animated franchise which has captivated audiences across 82 countries worldwide since 2012.

    Ultra Media & Entertainment Group director Rajat Agrawal quoted, “ We are extremely thrilled to bring Boonie Bears to Indian cinemas. The sheer fan following that the franchise had been enjoying globally is a testament of its universal appeal. The emotional quotient of the film will resonate well with the Indian audience. We also have been observing that there is a dearth of good films for children in India. Hence we also strategically timed the release to sync it with the summer vacation of the children, so that they can enjoy it in the theatres with their family in leisure “  

    The adventures of Bonnie Bears have transcended language barriers, fascinating audiences of all ages with their endearing antics & heartwarming narratives. They have become a cultural phenomenon, enchanting generations with their timeless charm & universal appeal.

    Boonie Bears, an international franchise has evolved into a highly cherished animated universe with 10 films & extensive TV series spanning 11 seasons with 728 episodes worldwide since its debut on 22 January 2012. Alongside it, Boonie Bears has also expanded its reach with five books, further enriching its immersive universe. It is currently being streamed on Netflix, Sony & Disney globally.

    The “Boonie Bears” film series is based on the wildly popular animated television show produced by Fantawild Holdings Inc. Boonie Bears series started its worldwide theatrical journey in 2014, Boonie Bears : Guardian Code garnered a Worldwide Box office of  $220 million. The film is acquired & released in India by Ultra Media & Entertainment Group.

    Television series: Boonie Bears was first shown on television in 2013 with BB: Homeward & in 2014 with BB: Robo-Rumble. It garnered huge traction & became the most popular children’s show globally. Following this an array of TV series was aired which spanned 11 seasons with 728 episodes worldwide since its debut.

  • Motivational cricket anthem ‘Bolo Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ on Ultra Music for cricket lovers

    Motivational cricket anthem ‘Bolo Bharat Mata Ki Jai’ on Ultra Music for cricket lovers

    Mumbai: The anthem aims to infuse immense enthusiasm among Indian cricket lovers & citizens. It will be available in Hindi in both video & audio formats from 6 October 2023. This anthem is to invigorate the spirits of every Indian & instil a sense of excitement & pride in our Indian Cricket team.

    The anthem will showcase the Cricket fever in India in its complete frenzy. It will have crowds cheering & praying for their team, fans hysteria in the stadium, Players celebrating each other & many more enchanting moments. The motivating lyrics for this anthem are penned by Deepak Chauhan & the resounding music has been composed by the dynamic duo Neel & Nataraj. Neel is also the lead vocalist for the same.

    The music video will be streamed on the Ultra Music YouTube channel and will also be simultaneously streamed on: Gaana, Spotify, JioSaavn, Amazon Music, iTunes, Wynk Music  & other leading music streaming platforms.

    This anthem of pride & glory is an ode to our nation. It’s a call for unity & a reminder of the unified strength that lies in our diversity. It will resonate deeply with every Indian & invigorate their love & trust in our Indian Cricketers & fuel the sportsman spirit of our Indian cricket team as they embark on their journey to conquer the world.

    This Anthem also goes beyond the boundaries of the cricket pitch, it infuses an unparalleled sense of excitement and can be proudly watched & played at any patriotic events & celebrations. All thanks to the energy and positivity it exudes.

    Ultra Media and Entertainment Group director Rajat Agrawal said: “India has performed phenomenally both in Cricket & Asian games recently. We all are just waiting for them to bring in the most coveted title in International Cricket & close this year with a bang. “Bolo Bharat Mata Ki Jai” is a drive to awaken every Indian to the promise that lies in our cricketers & give them the needed boost to put India on the world map & bring in the biggest accolades to our nation in this World Cup”

  • Barista appoints Media Mantra as its communication partner

    Barista appoints Media Mantra as its communication partner

    Mumbai: Barista has appointed Media Mantra as its PR agency to handle the communication of its chain of espresso bars and cafes. As Barista’s strategic communications partner, Media Mantra has been tasked with improving the company’s reputation, increasing brand awareness, and assisting the brand’s aggressive expansion in India. Barista’s selection of Media Mantra is consistent with the company’s vision to revitalise the brand with new inspiration and creativity, expand into emerging markets, and build on its long history of success in the country.

    Barista CEO Rajat Agrawal said, “Over the years, Barista has not only grown in reputation but also in growth numbers. With the increasing number of players in the ever-competitive Indian landscape, Barista is at an exciting juncture of reinventing its approach and entering a strong growth and expansion phase. This is where Media Mantra’s well-demonstrated creativity, unmatched expertise, and vast experience will play an integral role in our efforts to position our brand in the market.”

    He further added, “The agency has a high level of passion and a clear understanding of our business and communication needs. We look forward to our next phase of growth in India with Media Mantra as our communication partner.” 

    Media Mantra director and co-founder Pooja Pathak said, “We, at Media Mantra take immense pride in becoming the PR partner of a legacy brand like Barista that has transformed coffee houses into cultural hubs and much more in India. With a clear understanding of the brand’s ambitions and priorities, we are conscious of our role as strategic advisers, and look forward to supporting Barista’s vision and mission in what promises to be an important success story.”

    Media Mantra CEO Rahul Mehta said, “Barista is one of the biggest names in the Indian F&B ecosystem with a unique brand story, rich heritage and legacy. We are thrilled to partner with them and very excited about all the possibilities we can create together to elevate the brand reputation and reinforce the brand love through dynamic storytelling. We are hopeful that our relationship will yield greater connection and engagement for the brand with its customers.”

    As part of its revamp strategy, the Indian coffee chain has rapidly expanded in tier II and tier III towns. In addition to introducing new formats like Barista Diners, an all-day dining establishment with a live kitchen, it has also modified its menu to suit the tastes of Indians. Recently, it has also increased the variety of FMCG products it offers by introducing chocolates, cookies, and coffee powder.