Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach has taken a significant step towards inclusivity by introducing Braille menus. This groundbreaking initiative, implemented at the famous Indian speciality restaurant Zaffran, positions the hotel as a trailblazer in Andhra Pradesh, championing empowerment and equality.
The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of esteemed officials, including Dr Vishwamitra, Coordinator of the District Blindness Control Society, HOD Ophthalmology from Visakhapatnam, and dignitaries from Andhra Medical College and Varun Group, making the occasion even more meaningful.
“Our ethos revolves around fostering inclusivity, ensuring every individual feels esteemed and embraced,” emphasized Mrs Lakshmi Sridhar, General Manager at Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach and The Bheemili Resort managed by Accor.
The event witnessed the presence of distinguished individuals, including Dr G. Butchi Raju, Principal of Andhra Medical College, Dr. Allu Padmaja, Head of DREH, and Dr. Vasupalli Ravi, HOD, Anesthesia & CCM, KGH. The introduction of the Braille menu was met with heartfelt joy by visually impaired guests, offering them the ability to explore and make selections from the menu independently.
This initiative highlights Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment in the hospitality sector. The Braille menus represent not just a menu but a pathway to empowerment and self-reliance for individuals with visual impairments.
Furthermore, Lakshmi Prabhu Kishore, Director, Varun Group, added significance to the occasion by reinforcing their dedication to inclusivity and diversity.
In alignment with this commitment, Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach has hired six visually impaired individuals across different departments. Two of these exceptional employees participated in the event, joyfully perusing the Braille menu and placing their orders, exemplifying the success of inclusivity in practice.