Mr. Abdul Hakeem, Founder and Proprietor of ELATŌ GROUPS, has transformed more than 35 years of experience in the ice cream industry into an ambitious premium hospitality venture. Guided by the philosophy, “ELATŌ – Where Every Celebration Begins,” he has developed a brand centred on quality, innovation, refined experiences, and genuine hospitality.
Before establishing ELATŌ GROUPS, he built extensive expertise in the ice cream sector through his association with the late Mr. Ganapathy Pai, founder of Ullas Ice Cream. His experience encompassed product quality, marketing, distribution, customer relationships, and business operations. During this period, he also established Ullas Marketing, a marketing and distribution enterprise that contributed to expanding the reach of Ullas Ice Cream.
He continues his association with Ullas Ice Cream, now led by Mr. Udaya Pai, while simultaneously steering ELATŌ GROUPS. Balancing these responsibilities reflects his enduring commitment to the industry and the relationships cultivated throughout his professional journey.
With the support of his wife and children, he transformed a long-held aspiration into ELATŌ GROUPS. Built on family values and entrepreneurial determination, the venture was conceived as more than a conventional café or ice cream parlour. Under his leadership, it has evolved into a premium hospitality destination offering handcrafted ice creams, signature desserts, specialty coffee, café cuisine, and an elegant ambience.
The inauguration of ELATŌ marked an important milestone, attended by Hon’ble Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka, Mr. U.T. Khader, Mr. Udaya Pai, family members, well-wishers, and distinguished guests. The occasion reflected the goodwill and professional relationships he has cultivated over decades.
Located in Panemangalore near Mangaluru, Karnataka, ELATŌ operates within a region renowned for its strong ice cream manufacturing heritage. The brand builds on this legacy by presenting signature creations prepared with ultra-premium ice cream, combining refined taste with contemporary hospitality.
The group subsequently expanded its portfolio through ELATŌ EVENTS & STAY, offering venues and accommodation for weddings, engagements, family celebrations, corporate gatherings, and private events. This expansion has strengthened the group’s positioning as an integrated destination where dining, celebrations, and hospitality converge.
Recognising the importance of contemporary branding, he has also encouraged ELATŌ’s digital presence through visual storytelling, creative communication, and customer engagement. These initiatives have helped the brand connect with modern audiences while reinforcing its premium identity.
ELATŌ GROUPS remains a family-driven enterprise, with Mrs. Surayya Farveen serving as Director, Ms. Maryam Shuha contributing to brand and creative coordination, and Mr. Mohammad Shuaim leading brand development and digital media initiatives. The youngest family member, Master Mohammad Shuwaiz, represents the next generation of the family’s shared aspirations.
Today, he continues to pursue the vision of establishing ELATŌ GROUPS among India’s respected premium hospitality brands. His journey combines decades of industry knowledge with entrepreneurial ambition, family values, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. While maintaining his association with Ullas Ice Cream, he remains focused on expanding ELATŌ through innovation, quality, and memorable experiences.
His professional journey has also been supported by longstanding industry relationships. He acknowledges the continued trust and guidance of Mr. Udaya Pai, along with the support of Mr. Sameer, Managing Head, Ullas Marketing; Mr. Venkatraman Bhat, Managing Head, Ullas Ice Cream; and the wider Ullas teams.
With its distinctive philosophy, “ELATŌ – Where Every Celebration Begins,” the brand continues to build its identity around exceptional food, heartfelt hospitality, and celebrations that leave a lasting impression.
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