The underrepresentation of women in the restaurant industry can be attributed to various factors, like societal stereotypes and gender roles. The restaurant industry has traditionally been viewed as male-dominated, with societal stereotypes portraying cooking and culinary arts as more suitable for men. These stereotypes have discouraged women from pursuing careers in restaurant management, culinary arts, or other hospitality-related roles.
The restaurant industry has a challenging and demanding work environment, characterised by long hours, high-pressure situations, and a male-dominated culture. Women perceive this culture as unwelcoming or hostile, particularly in kitchen settings where the “bro” culture can prevail. Sexual harassment, discrimination, and lack of support for work-life balance further contribute to the deterrent for women considering careers in the restaurant industry.
Addressing these challenges requires efforts to challenge gender stereotypes, promote inclusive workplace cultures, and create pathways for women to advance and thrive in the restaurant industry. Initiatives such as mentorship programs, leadership development opportunities, and policies that promote diversity and equity can help break down barriers and create a more inclusive environment for women in restaurants.
Some of the key women who have made a difference in Bangalore’s thriving hospitality industry include…
Amandeep Kaur – Amandeep is the savvy General Manager of ITC Hotels. Ascending to the role of General Manager, Amandeep has not only led her team through the tumultuous times of the pandemic but also championed innovative business operations. Her recent accolade as ‘Best General Manager- South’ in the upper upscale category by Indian Hospitality Awards 2023, is a clear indicator of her outstanding leadership and dedication.
Sita Lekshmi, General Manager – Aloft Hotel, Bangalore. Sita won the Marriott international award for creating and promoting a “take care” culture in the hotel in the first year as a GM with Marriott. She was instrumental in growing the women work force to 28%. As a dynamic leader, Sita spearheads all operational facets of the hotel, while nurturing talent and fostering growth opportunities. With her visionary approach, she aims to elevate Aloft Bengaluru ORR into a coveted destination for the next gen. Her academic background includes a B.Sc. in Hospitality Administration from IHM Kovalam, complemented by a PGDM from the Oberoi Centre of Learning & Development. Sita actively contributes to the hospitality community as a state council member of the Women’s Indian Chamber of Commerce, India, Hospitality and Tourism – Karnataka chapter.
Sita participated in the Mrs. India Pride of Nation 2023 contest for spreading breast cancer awareness and was crowned as 1st runner up. She did this solely because she believes that one must stand for a cause and support women in every way one can.
Shraddha Amit, Director of Kshemavana – Shraddha Amit’s exemplary leadership in the wellness industry, coupled with her commitment to women’s empowerment, positions her as a valuable contributor to delving into India’s healthcare sector. With a Master’s in Psychology, she advocates diversity and fostering positive change in healthcare at Kshemavana, a wellness retreat that offers a holistic approach to health and wellness through Naturopathy, Yoga, and customised therapies.
Divya S – Divya is the founder & managing director of the hugely popular South Indian eatery Rameshwaram Café. She is also a qualified chartered accountant and Chairman of SIRC, Bangalore Chapter. She was eight months pregnant when she was travelling with her husband Raghav to scout for new locations before becoming a proud mom recently. During the recent launch of Rameshwaram Café Hyderabad, she effortlessly managed all the logistics along with managing her small baby.
Pallavii Gupta – A serial F&B entrepreneur with successful brands like Hungry Hippie, Sante Spa and The Kind Roastery & Brewroom. Supported ably by her husband Arjun Shhetty, all her projects exude elegance and sophistication. Arjun and Pallavii are avid travellers and their travel soirees are a subtle mix of work and pleasure.
These amazing women besides many others are inspiring a generation of women professionals and entrepreneurs to take up hospitality as a preferred career of choice.
- BY RAUNAK KUNDU, FOUNDER OF BANGALORE FOODIES CLUB.