About
The Curry Compass Experience
Embark on a journey with Curry Compass, where you’re the chef of your adventure through India’s vibrant offerings. From the calmness of yoga retreats to the pulse of wildlife safaris, craft journeys that are authentically yours.
Like handpicking ingredients for a bespoke curry, you select experiences that ignite your curiosity and interest. Through guidance with a conscious compass, we then ensure each choice comes together in a wholesome Curry experience that reflects a commitment to cultural immersion and mindfulness. Travel with purpose and tread slowly, creating a travel story you take back that’s as considerate as it is captivating.
With Curry Compass, discover India’s wonders through a lens of net-positive travel – a Curry experience that is mindful, considerate, and inspiring – for both wanderers and the places visited.
The Team
At the heart of Curry Compass are Balaji Seshan and Nandita Nanda, whose diverse backgrounds and shared dedication towards travel converge to create unique and conscious experiences.
Balaji’s extensive expertise in the Indian tourism sector is complemented by Nandita’s global perspective and adventurous spirit.
Balaji Seshan
Balaji Seshan’s journey in the travel industry spans over twenty years, a path that has been marked by a profound dedication to hospitality and an unwavering commitment to crafting bespoke travel experiences.
“Passion To India,” his former travel company, holds a special place in his heart. It was through this venture that Balaji cultivated a rich tapestry of knowledge and, a trusted network of on-ground partners. Since inception, he has built lasting relationships with people from across the globe, many of whom he now considers friends. His reputation for excellence in South India is a testament to his intimate understanding of the region and his ability to tailor journeys that are not just trips, but treasured experiences for more than 1,200 clients.
Balaji possesses an in-depth understanding of the Indian tourism sector. His personal guidance and interactions ensure that every moment becomes more than a mere story—it becomes an experience where guests feel safe, secure, and truly heard.
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Nandita Nanda
Nandita’s wanderlust ignited in her early twenties, fueled by an insatiable thirst for exploration and self-discovery. From the bustling streets of India to the enchanting landscapes of Europe and the untamed wilderness of South America, Nandita’s explorations have forged a profound understanding of experiential travel and its paramount importance in one’s life.
Having spent a decade living abroad in London and Berlin, earning an international master’s degree, and working in technology consulting in London for four years, she possesses a unique perspective that resonates with the expectations of international clientele. Her international linguistic skills in German and Spanish, combined with her year-long overlanding and camping expedition across South America and Africa, endow Curry Compass with an invaluable blend of worldwide understanding and offbeat discoveries.
Nandita’s adventurous spirit thrives in the great outdoors with nature and wildlife. She aspires to live more sustainably, mindful of the impact her travel discoveries have. Through this venture, she spreads awareness to fellow travelers—a purposeful journey transcending mere exploration.
The Advisors
Mr. Bhushan Oberoi & Mrs. Benjamine Oberoi
Bhushan Oberoi is a travel enthusiast and bon vivant. He is known to have owned several of Bangalore’s iconic restaurants, the “Casa Piccola”.
His curiosity and his love for discovery makes him a precious adviser who offers a wonderful insight on the beautiful locations in India.
He is currently in charge of a charming hotel, the “Casa Cottage”, and shares the same sense of hospitality as his wife. It is with pride that we present this duo who are recognized in the world of travel to South India. If you are looking to have fun in India and discover the roots that form its culture and heritage, this is the man for you!
Benjamine Oberoi was born in France and settled in Bangalore over thirty years ago with her husband. Benjamine loves to have a hearty conversation and always warmly welcomes her guests whose praise continues to increase. Many customers mention it when sharing their stay in India.
Benjamine says: “We love welcoming enthusiastic people from all over the world and it is a pleasure to see them meet here at Casa Cottage.” Not only is his Cottage affordable, but it feels like home. Benjamine is also the founder of the NGO “Casa Foundation” which supports several local NGOs in South India in the implementation of their projects for education, rural development and the emancipation of women.
Ms. Celine Barda
Celine Barda is French and lives in Paris. She has been traveling India solo for many years. Architect by profession she has a solid knowledge of Indian culture and in particular heritage and can guide your travel in India. Also passionate about nature and wildlife, she will advise you if you wish to visit one of the many national parks where she has stayed to bring back magnificent images.