Brandpost
The Highway Stop I Didn’t Expect to Fall in Love With
A road-tripper’s account of JollyGo Food Court, the Yamuna Expressway landmark turning a Delhi-Agra drive into part of the destination.
I’ll be honest – I wasn’t expecting to write 1,200 words about a food court. Highway stops are supposed to be functional: pull in, use the washroom, grab a chai, get back on the road before the kids start asking “are we there yet” again. That’s the deal you make with a long drive.
Then I pulled into JollyGo, somewhere along the Yamuna Expressway near Jewar, and the deal changed.
A Building That Makes You Pull Over Twice
The first thing that gets you is the architecture – which is not a sentence I expected to type about a highway dhaba. One of JollyGo’s two properties here borrows from Dutch design: clean gables, old-world detailing, the kind of silhouette you’d photograph in a European town square. The other leans more intricate detailing and colour – soaring lines, a quiet, contemplative calm that feels completely out of place next to a toll plaza, in the best way. I actually did a U-turn in the parking lot to get a second look before I’d eaten a single bite. I wasn’t the only one – every few minutes, someone else was doing the same thing, phone out, walking backward to fit the whole building in frame.
Everything, All at Once
At Jolly Da Dhaba, it’s North Indian comfort food done properly -thalis, parathas, chole bhature, the works. A few counters over, Murthy’s is turning out South Indian dosas and idlis with filter coffee that actually tastes like filter coffee, not the highway-stall version. I ordered a kulhad chai just to see if it lived up to the reviews, then ended up back in line twenty minutes later for a full deluxe thali because I’d changed my mind about “just a quick stop.” That seems to be the pattern here -whatever you’re craving, JollyGo tends to have it, and it tends to be good enough that you order more than you planned.
The Comfort of the Familiar, Right Next to the Adventurous
What struck me next was the brand mix. Starbucks, KFC, Burger King, Domino’s,Baskin-Robbins -all the names you’d recognise from any city mall – sitting shoulder to shoulder with the Indian counters. For the family in the car ahead of me, clearly on their way to Agra with an exhausted toddler, that Starbucks cup was a small mercy. For me, it meant I could talk a slightly nervous friend into trying kulhad chai for the first time, because I knew if it wasn’t her thing, a Baskin-Robbins scoop was thirty seconds away. It’s a strange kind of anxiety-free stop: nothing here is a gamble.
The Details You Don’t Expect to Notice – Until You Do
Here’s the part that actually earned my trust: I could watch several of the counters cook. Not through a service window, but right there, live -fresh ingredients going in, plates coming out, nothing hidden. After a few too many questionable roadside stalls over the years, that visibility matters more than I’d like to admit. The washrooms backed it up -genuinely clean, with separate facilities for families and women.
The Staff Remember You’re a Person, Not a Transaction
If the building gets you to stop the car, it’s the people who make you want to come back. I watched a floor manager crouch down to talk a lost toddler through finding her parents while three separate orders waited on his counter -patient, unhurried, like it was the only thing happening. That kind of attentiveness shows up in review after review, guests naming individual staff members the way you’d thank a friend. For a place that sees a relentless, ever-changing flow of travellers every single day, that’s not an easy thing to keep up. JollyGo has, somehow.
A Small World, Off a Big Highway
Sitting on the road to Agra -and now minutes from the newly opened Noida International Airport at Jewar -JollyGo has become an unlikely meeting point for the world. I watched a group of overseas visitors, clearly just off a long-haul flight and clearly not local, working their way through paratha thalis and masala kulhad chai with the wide-eyed enthusiasm of people trying something completely new. For a lot of them, this was probably their first taste of home-style Indian food -and the staff seemed to know it, taking a little extra time to explain what was on the plate. It’s a strange and lovely thing to witness: someone’s first real meal in India happening at a highway stop.
The Story Doesn’t End at Jewar
Here’s the part that made me sit up: JollyGo isn’t staying put. The brand has opened a new outpost nearly a thousand kilometres away, in Sendhwa, right on the Mumbai-Agra highway where Madhya Pradesh meets Maharashtra -a route travelled daily by an entirely different crowd of interstate drivers, families, and long-haul truckers. Same idea, new highway: architecture worth stopping for, the same mix of Indian and international food, the same visible hygiene standards, the same kind of staff who actually look up when you walk in.
JollyGo, At a Glance
- Where: Yamuna Expressway near Jewar, UP -both the Delhi-Agra and Agra-Delhi sides -plus a new stop in Sendhwa on the Mumbai-Agra highway
- Rating: around 4.8 out of 5 across hundreds of Tripadvisor reviews
- Food: North Indian, South Indian, Chinese, and Italian, alongside classic highway favourites
- Brands on site: Starbucks, KFC, Burger King, Domino’s, Baskin-Robbins, Murthy’s & Jolly da Dhaba
- Accessible by design: wheelchair ramps, separate and well-maintained washrooms for families and women
More Than a Pit Stop
I’ve driven the Delhi-Agra route more times than I can count, mostly treating every stop along the way as a necessary interruption rather than part of the trip. JollyGo is the first one that’s changed that math for me. The architecture gets you out of the car. The food, the visible hygiene, and honestly the people are what make you linger longer than you meant to. And with a second outpost now open on the Mumbai-Agra highway, it seems I’m not the only one who thinks a highway break deserves better than a vending machine and a dirty washroom. Some journeys are about the destination. On this one, I’d argue the food court is part of it.
Brandpost
Kalyani Patidar’s 52-Second Hanuman Chalisa Recitation Earns World Record Recognition
Bangrod, Ratlam: A proud moment for Bangrod and Ratlam district unfolded as Kalyani Patidar achieved recognition in the London Book of World Records for completing the recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa in just 52 seconds. Her accomplishment reflects a combination of dedication, concentration, regular practice and a deep interest in India’s spiritual and cultural traditions.
Kalyani has been associated with devotional and cultural activities from an early age. Her interest in religious literature, Sanskrit verses, devotional songs, bhajans and Indian traditions encouraged her to develop her recitation abilities. Over time, consistent practice helped her improve her fluency, pronunciation, rhythm and confidence.
The 52-second recitation represents a distinctive accomplishment that required extensive preparation and familiarity with the complete text. Maintaining clarity and continuity while reciting at such speed demands considerable concentration and practice. Kalyani’s performance has therefore become a significant milestone in her journey and a source of happiness for those who have supported her.
In recognition of the achievement, Kalyani Patidar was presented with a World Record Certificate, Gold Medal, Memento and Certificate of Honour. The recognition has been warmly welcomed by her family and members of the local community.
Her accomplishment has also highlighted the continuing relevance of India’s devotional traditions. In an era where young people are increasingly exposed to diverse cultural influences, Kalyani’s achievement demonstrates how traditional interests can be pursued with dedication and transformed into meaningful accomplishments.
On the occasion of the felicitation ceremony, Mrs Universe Central Asia and World Record Brand Ambassador Dr. Divya Patidar honoured Kalyani Patidar and congratulated her on the achievement. Dr. Divya Patidar extended her best wishes for Kalyani’s bright future and appreciated her dedication towards Indian spiritual and cultural traditions.
Dr. Divya Patidar also emphasised the importance of supporting young talent and encouraging children and youth to remain connected with India’s rich heritage. She noted that spirituality, literature, music and traditional knowledge form an important part of India’s cultural identity and that dedicated young individuals can help carry these traditions forward.
The achievement has received appreciation from educators, social workers, cultural enthusiasts and prominent citizens from the region. Several well-wishers congratulated Kalyani and expressed their hope that she will continue to develop her talents and achieve further milestones.
Kalyani Patidar’s recognition in the London Book of World Records has added a memorable chapter to the cultural achievements associated with Bangrod and Ratlam. Her 52-second Hanuman Chalisa recitation stands as an example of what can be achieved through focused preparation, discipline and dedication.
Her accomplishment has brought pride to her family and community while offering an encouraging message to young people: passion becomes a powerful strength when combined with practice, perseverance and commitment.
Brandpost
YASHAS Para Sports Academy and Affectionate Hands Support Visually Impaired Cyclists at L’Étape Mysuru 2026
Mysuru, October 2, 2026: In a significant move for inclusive sport, YASHAS Para Sports Academy (R) and Affectionate Hands are facilitating the participation of visually impaired cyclists Hemanth HKM and Swetha T, along with their tandem Captains Mohammed Suhaib and Bharath, in the 20 km category of L’Étape Mysuru by Tour de France 2026. The initiative brings tandem cycling into a mainstream sporting environment while highlighting the role of structured training, volunteer support and inclusive participation.
Tandem Cycling Built on Trust, Training and Teamwork
Hemanth and Swetha, together with their respective Captains, have been training regularly at Cubbon Park in Bengaluru, covering approximately 25–30 kilometres every Sunday. Tandem cycling requires close coordination between the visually impaired cyclist and the Captain, with communication, rhythm, balance and mutual trust playing a central role throughout the ride.
The regular training has helped the participants prepare for the demands of a longer organised cycling event while also creating an environment in which athletes and Captains can develop the teamwork needed for safe and confident participation.
Hemanth HKM Brings Endurance Experience to Tandem Cycling
Hemanth HKM, a visually impaired athlete associated with YASHAS Para Sports Academy, comes to the cycling event with substantial endurance-sport experience. He has completed four full marathons, seven half marathons, 21 10K races and three 5K races, covering more than 500 kilometres across organised running events.
His participation at L’Étape Mysuru marks a new chapter in that sporting journey. Moving from long-distance running into tandem cycling gives Hemanth an opportunity to explore another discipline while bringing the endurance, consistency and race experience developed through years of running.
Swetha T Expands Her Sporting Journey
Swetha T, also a visually impaired athlete, has established herself in para athletics. At the 34th State Para Athletics Championship 2026 in Karnataka, she won a Silver Medal in the 400 metres and a Bronze Medal in Shot Put in the visually impaired category.
Her participation in L’Étape Mysuru adds tandem cycling to her competitive sporting experience. The transition illustrates how athletes with disabilities can explore multiple disciplines when training opportunities, guidance and participation platforms are made available.
Building Wider Pathways Through YASHAS Para Sports Academy
YASHAS Para Sports Academy (R) works to identify, train and support visually impaired and para athletes through regular sporting opportunities and competition-focused preparation. Its current activities include Goalball, swimming for visually impaired athletes, tandem cycling and athletics, alongside other inclusive sports programmes.
The Academy’s approach centres on consistent training, community participation and connections with volunteers, Captains and supporters. By creating opportunities to compete and train, it aims to help athletes progress towards state, national and international-level sporting opportunities and pursue their wider sporting ambitions.
Affectionate Hands Strengthens the Inclusion Network
Affectionate Hands, founded by Mohammed Suhaib, has also been supporting inclusive activities involving visually impaired athletes. Suhaib has supported visually impaired champions for the past four years by running alongside them in marathons, taking them trekking and participating in inclusive programmes with YASHAS Para Sports Academy and Guide Runners India.
He has also received four International Awards for his short documentary on the graffiti clean-up at Dhanushkodi Rock, Melukote, and was honoured with the Visionary Leadership Award for setting up libraries at Melukote. His involvement reflects a broader focus on community-led initiatives that connect sport, volunteering and social participation.
A Collective Effort Behind the Mysuru Participation
The participation of Hemanth and Swetha has involved support from a wider group of individuals associated with inclusive sport. YASHAS Para Sports Academy and Affectionate Hands have acknowledged Reet D’Souza from NEB Sports, Manjunath Nagaraj, Meera Ashok, Dr. Bhumika Patel, Founder of Guide Runners India, and its members for their continued support and encouragement.
Such collaborations are particularly relevant to tandem cycling, where athletes depend on trained Captains, regular practice and a supportive sporting environment. The collective effort demonstrates how participation can become possible when organisations, volunteers and event stakeholders work together.
A Step Towards More Inclusive Mainstream Sport
The participation of visually impaired cyclists at L’Étape Mysuru 2026 highlights the importance of bringing athletes with disabilities into mainstream sporting spaces. For Hemanth and Swetha, the 20 km ride offers competitive exposure and an opportunity to extend their sporting experiences beyond their established disciplines.
For YASHAS Para Sports Academy and Affectionate Hands, the initiative reflects a continuing effort to create practical opportunities rather than limiting para-sport participation to specialised events. With regular training, appropriate support and access to competitions, visually impaired athletes can continue to develop skills, confidence and experience across different sporting disciplines.
Brandpost
Parkview Ventures Expands Founder Platform Across an 80-Company Portfolio and 10,000+ Accelerator Network
Since 2007, Parkview Ventures has worked alongside ambitious founders to build and support high-potential companies across industries and geographies. Led by a founder-focused investment philosophy, the firm combines capital deployment with strategic support, technology access and ecosystem connectivity. Parkview Ventures also reports a wider network of more than 10,000 accelerator and startup ecosystem partners, extending the resources available to founders beyond the firm’s direct portfolio.
Portfolio at a Glance
Parkview Ventures’ portfolio currently includes 80 companies, with nine new investments made in 2026. Since inception, the firm has invested approximately $1.27 billion, including $86 million during 2026. The companies in its portfolio have also raised substantial follow-on capital, recording approximately $3.4 billion since inception and $240 million during 2026.
The employment footprint associated with the portfolio is another part of the firm’s reported impact. Companies supported by Parkview Ventures have collectively created or retained approximately 9,800 jobs, including 1,150 jobs in 2026. These figures provide a broader view of the company-building activity surrounding the portfolio beyond investment totals.
Founder Support at the Centre
Founder support remains a central part of Parkview Ventures’ approach. The firm’s portfolio includes 14 repeat founders, while its platform reports more than 12,500 hours of founder support. Its broader ecosystem includes more than 340 co-investor relationships, over 85 strategic partners and a reported network of 10,000+ accelerator and startup ecosystem partners, giving founders access to capital, expertise, technology resources, partnerships and growth opportunities.
For early-stage companies, these connections can be particularly important as founders work through product development, customer acquisition, hiring, fundraising and market expansion. Parkview Ventures’ founder-focused model positions the investor relationship as an ongoing partnership that can extend beyond the initial financing round.
Technology and Sector Exposure
Technology and innovation account for a significant portion of the portfolio, with companies spanning artificial intelligence, enterprise software, healthcare, infrastructure, consumer technology and financial technology. The reported sector distribution includes 13 Artificial Intelligence companies, eight Enterprise Software companies, eight Healthcare companies and six Infrastructure companies.
The portfolio also includes four Consumer companies, three FinTech companies, one Deep Tech company and one Cybersecurity company, alongside 49 companies classified across other sectors. Parkview Ventures’ impact metrics further highlight 54 AI-native companies, reflecting the growing role of artificial intelligence across the wider portfolio.
Global Portfolio
Parkview Ventures has developed a geographically diverse portfolio across established and emerging technology ecosystems. The United States represents the largest concentration with 46 companies, followed by Europe with 13 companies, India with seven, the Middle East with six and Asia-Pacific with five. Three additional companies are represented across other regions.
This geographic spread gives the firm exposure to different startup markets, founder communities and technology ecosystems. For founders, a cross-border network can also create opportunities to access customers, investors, strategic partners and market knowledge beyond their immediate geography.
From Capital to Company Building
The firm’s approach extends beyond investment capital. Parkview Ventures describes its role around strategic support, ecosystem access and practical assistance as companies move from early concepts toward scalable businesses. This can include support around talent, go-to-market strategy, fundraising and product and engineering development.
That model reflects the realities of early-stage company building, where product-market fit may still be developing and founders are often making high-impact decisions with limited resources. The combination of capital, experience and relationships can provide founders with additional capabilities as they build teams, develop products and prepare for subsequent stages of growth.
A 10,000+ Accelerator and Startup Ecosystem Network
A major part of Parkview Ventures’ platform is its wider startup ecosystem. The firm reports relationships across a network of more than 10,000 accelerator and startup ecosystem partners, alongside co-investors, strategic partners, advisors and technology providers. For portfolio founders, this network can create additional routes to customers, infrastructure, startup programs, technical resources, follow-on capital and experienced operators.
The scale of this network is intended to complement direct investment rather than replace it. By connecting founders with relevant accelerators and ecosystem partners, Parkview Ventures can help companies identify specialized programs, market-entry opportunities, technology benefits and strategic relationships as they move from early product development toward growth.
Measuring Long-Term Impact
Parkview Ventures tracks its reported impact through several indicators, including investment activity, follow-on funding, employment, founder support and exits. Since inception, the portfolio metrics cited by the firm include 80 companies invested in, $1.27 billion in capital invested, $3.4 billion in follow-on capital raised, 9,800 jobs created or retained and 12 successful exits.
The firm’s broader impact metrics also reference 210 companies supported, while its founder-support platform records more than 12,500 hours of direct support. Parkview Ventures additionally reports a network of 10,000+ accelerator and startup ecosystem partners. Together, these measures present an investment platform focused on company development, ecosystem participation and long-term founder support alongside capital deployment.
2026 Activity Reflects Continued Deployment
In 2026, Parkview Ventures reports nine new investments and $86 million in capital deployed. Companies across its portfolio raised approximately $240 million in follow-on funding during the year, while 1,150 jobs were created or retained.
The latest figures add a current dimension to the firm’s longer operating history and show how its investment and founder-support activities continue to translate into portfolio development. The combination of new investments, follow-on capital and employment activity also reflects the multiple stages through which portfolio companies can progress.
The Founder-First Perspective
For Aris Step and Parkview Ventures, the underlying approach is built around the idea that early-stage investing is a long-term relationship. By combining capital with strategic guidance, ecosystem access and practical resources, the firm seeks to work alongside founders as they develop products, build teams, reach customers and prepare for future growth.
As technology continues to reshape industries and create new markets, early-stage investors have an opportunity to participate before companies become widely established. Parkview Ventures’ stated model places that early partnership at the centre of its approach, with a focus on supporting ambitious founders and technology-driven businesses over the longer term.
Looking Ahead
With 80 companies in its current portfolio, a global footprint, a reported network of 10,000+ accelerator and startup ecosystem partners, and continued investment activity in 2026, Parkview Ventures is positioned around a model that combines financing with founder support and ecosystem connectivity. Its reported metrics on follow-on funding, employment, exits and founder engagement provide additional measures of how the platform participates in company building.
For founders, the value of an early-stage investment relationship can extend beyond the capital itself. Access to experience, networks, strategic partners and practical support can become part of the journey from an early idea to a more established company. Parkview Ventures’ approach is built around that broader relationship, with long-term company building remaining a central theme.
Connect With Parkview Ventures
For more information about Parkview Ventures, its investment approach and founder resources, visit the firm’s official website. Aris Step’s professional profile is also available on LinkedIn.
Parkview Ventures: https://www.parkviewventures.vc/
Partnership inquiries: partnership@parkviewventures.vc
Aris Step on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aris-step-19b5a338/
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