SOH - March 2025

CAN INDIA LEAD GLOBAL TOURISM?

India’s union minister of tourism & culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat lays down the future roadmap—the museum, the market, and the mission.

THE EXTRAORDINARY AWAITS

More Than a venue, it's an experience brought to life

Grand Hyatt Mumbai, Bandra Kurla Complex vicinity

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FOUNDER'S NOTE

PEOPLE AT HEART

Hospitality has always been, at its core, a peoplefirst industry. It’s the warmth of a smile at checkin, the attentiveness of a waiter who remembers your morning tea, the instinctive care of a housekeeper who notices what you didn’t say. Long before we speak of design, service, or culinary flair, we speak of people. They are the soul of every guest experience—and the reason hospitality matters.

But today, this people-first industry is facing a quiet crisis. The demand for skilled, serviceoriented professionals far exceeds the supply. Hotels across the country, from luxury resorts to city business hotels, are navigating a very real human resource crunch.

Recognising this, leading hotel groups are investing in skilling initiatives like never before. IHCL, for example, has pledged to train one lakh youth by 2030 through its skill development centres. Groups like ITC Hotels, and The Oberoi Group have all established dedicated hospitality schools or academies across India—offering structured training, on-the-job learning, and pathways to employment. These programmes go beyond technical skills; they equip young people with confidence, language, and the soft power of gracious service.

The growing presence of leading brands in Tier II and Tier III cities is also changing the game. Raipur, Bhubaneswar, Surat, Madurai, and Guwahati now find themselves on the hospitality map. This decentralisation is creating new opportunities where few existed before—allowing young people to build careers within their hometowns, without the social and financial burden of migrating to metro cities.

It is a quiet but significant shift that makes the industry more accessible and rooted.

Boutique and independently run properties, too, are contributing to this change. Many of them are deeply embedded in the communities they operate in. Instead of recruiting from metros, they often hire locally—bringing in people who may not have formal hospitality training but who bring a sense of ownership, authenticity, and pride to their work. With patient mentoring, these properties are not just creating jobs; they are nurturing new talent, restoring dignity to regional livelihoods, and expanding the definition of who belongs in hospitality.

Of course, there is more to do. Retaining good people requires us to rethink old ways of working. Some hotels are already experimenting with humane shift patterns, career pathing, better pay structures, and a more inclusive work culture. Others are finding ways to bring meaning and pride back into the service role. The goal is clear: to make hospitality aspirational again—not just in brochures, but in boardrooms, back-offices, and staff canteens.

If Indian hospitality is to truly thrive, we must reaffirm this truth: infrastructure may create capacity, but it is people who deliver magic. From the big chains in emerging cities to the smallest boutique stays, the future will belong to those who put people back at the heart of the experience—not just for guests, but for every single person who works to make hospitality what it is.

Because in the end, the soul of hospitality is human.

GURMEET KAUR SACHDEV gurmeetsachdev@soulinkkworldwidemedia.com

FROM MUSEUMS TO BORDERS AND BOARDROOMS

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, India’s Union Minister of Tourism & Culture, navigates a gruelling schedule—high-stake meetings, extensive travel, and critical policy decisions—yet remains composed, tackling tough questions on foreign tourist arrivals and ease of business in tourism. Shekhawat envisions a sustainable, globally competitive tourism sector, balancing economic growth with cultural and environmental preservation. In an exclusive cover interview with SOH, he discusses India’s tourism strategy, emphasising sustainable infrastructure, private-sector collaboration, and the world’s largest museum, which is coming up in Delhi.

In this edition, we look at the eastern India market, where the hospitality industry sees untapped potential and where branded hotels remain scarce outside Kolkata. Investors have long overlooked this region, but momentum is shifting.

Gender diversity remains a challenge—women comprise under 20% of the workforce and hold just 10% of managerial roles. We speak to 12 graceful ladies heading hotels across India to understand their motivation for joining the hospitality industry, besides putting a range of quirky questions that get us the best answers in our women’s special feature.

Tourism in India is increasingly experiential and offbeat. For instance, Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan is set to redefine border tourism, opening 77 historic battlefields—including 21 in Arunachal Pradesh and 14 in Ladakh—to boost local economies and heritage tourism. Restoration efforts are also gaining traction, with projects like Murshidabad’s Bari Kothi and Bhopal’s Sadar Manzil preserving India’s architectural legacy while adapting for luxury hospitality. From policy shifts and investment to gender diversity and heritage conservation, India’s tourism landscape is evolving—rich with opportunity but demanding sustained vision and action. Read these exciting tourism and hospitality stories exclusively in SOH’s edition that you are holding in your hand.

Warm regards,

DEEPALI NANDWANI, EDITOR, SOH

Founder and Publisher

Gurmeet Sachdev

Editorial

Editor Deepali Nandwani

Managing Editor Rupali Sebastian

Contributing Editor Suman Tarafdar

Digital Editor Nolan Lewis

Columnists

Manav Thadani

Creative

Creative Director Tanvi Shah

Team Shiv Soni

Contributing Artist Govinda Sao

Sales Manager

Deepa Rao

Office Manager

Deepak Rao

Accounts Head

Amey Acharekar

For queries:

editorial@soulinkkworldwidemedia.com

sales@soulinkkworldwidemedia.com info@soulinkkworldwidemedia.com

Printed and Published by Gurmeet Sachdev on behalf of Soulinkk World-Wide Media LLP. Registered office: 1/2, Old Anand Nagar, Nehru Road, Santacruz East, Mumbai, Maharashtra - 400055. Printed at Silverpoint Press Pvt. Ltd., A-403, TTC Industrial Area, Near Anthony Motors, Mahape, Navi Mumbai – 400709. Editor: Deepali Nandwani. All rights reserved worldwide. Reproducing in any manner without prior written permission prohibited. SOH takes no responsibility for unsolicited photographs or material all photographs, unless otherwise indicated, are used for illustrative purposes only. Unsolicited manuscripts will not be returned unless accompanied by a postage pre-paid envelope. All disputes are subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of competent courts and forums in Mumbai only. Copyright Soulinkk World-Wide Media LLP.

SOUL OF HOSPITALITY

GAJENDRA SINGH SHEKHAWAT

India’s Union Minister of Tourism & Culture on shaping India’s tourism future, building the world’s biggest museum, and facilitating travel.

58 The Leading Ladies Women GMs talk about their inspirations and their quirky choices.

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Bari Kothi Revived A Sheherwali mansion reawakens as a heritage hotel.

82 Voyages of Influence Abhay Deol on a life of travel, films and art.

112

Tea Trails India

Experience heritage, hospitality, and sustainability in India’s vibrant tea estates.

122

Market Intelligence

The eastern region is finally drawing interest from branded hotel groups.

100

Taj Taal Kutir Luxury meets nostalgia and modernity in Kolkata’s serene waterfront setting.

88

Atmosphere Core's Indian debut

Historic Sadar Manzil re-imagined as a luxury, couples-only retreat.

HICSA turns

Manav Thadani on shaping the hospitality landscape in India.

CHASING WILDFLOWERS

From spring’s rhododendron-cloaked hills to summer’s alpine meadows and autumn’s cherry blossom valleys, India’s floral wonders unfold with the seasons.

RUPALI SEBASTIAN

As winter loosens its grip, India celebrates Vasant Panchami, the festival of new beginnings, knowledge, and the colour yellow. Across the northern plains, mustard fields sway like golden oceans, a symbol of prosperity and warmth. But beyond this cultivated bloom, India’s wild landscapes begin their own grand transformation.

With the change of seasons, flowers bloom in waves—first in the Himalayan valleys, then across the monsoon-fed plateaus, and finally in the hidden nooks of the northeast, where autumn unfurls its delicate surprises. For those who believe travel should be immersive, timed to the pulse of nature, here’s a guide to India’s most spectacular floral landscapes, season by season.

THE SEASON OF AWAKENING

SUMMER (MARCH – MAY)

Yumthang Valley, Sikkim

Tucked deep in North Sikkim, Yumthang Valley is a symphony of colour each spring. Known as the Valley of Flowers of the Northeast, it bursts into bloom with rhododendrons, primulas, poppies, and irises. The valley is flanked by snowclad mountains, while the Lachung River snakes through its wild expanse. The effect is surreal—patches of fiery pink and crimson stand in stark contrast against the icy peaks, creating a landscape unlike any other.

As the last remnants of snow melt in the Himalayas, the valleys come alive in pinks, crimsons, and golds. Rhododendrons set the hills ablaze, while rare lilies and orchids make fleeting appearances.

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Dzüko Valley, Nagaland and Manipur

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Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Sikkim

Sikkim is home to over 40 species of rhododendrons, and nowhere is their display more dramatic than in Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary near Lachung. Here, every shade of pink, red, and purple explodes across the hillsides, making for vivid floral landscapes.

(JUNE – AUGUST)

THE ALPINE SYMPHONY

As the monsoon sets in, high-altitude meadows and plateaus in the Himalayas and Western Ghats begin their transformation. It is a season of short-lived but dazzling displays, as flowers bloom for just a few weeks before the rains retreat.

On the border of Nagaland and Manipur, Dzüko Valley remains a rarely explored floral wonder. In spring, it is carpeted with wildflowers—aconites, euphorbias, and its most famous resident, the Dzüko lily. Found nowhere else in the world, this delicate pink-and-white bloom dots the valley floor, creating a dreamlike landscape against the rolling green hills.

Kaas Plateau, Maharashtra

If the Valley of Flowers is the Himalayan jewel, then Kaas Plateau is its Western Ghats counterpart. Located in Maharashtra, this UNESCO Biodiversity Site transforms into a kaleidoscope of pink, yellow, and purple as balsams, orchids, and bladderworts take over. The blooms shift colours every few days, creating an ever-changing canvas of wild beauty.

Valley of Flowers, Uttarakhand

Few destinations in India hold the mythic status of the Valley of Flowers. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this remote Himalayan valley in Uttarakhand is a living canvas that changes by the week. By mid-July, it is awash with blue poppies, primulas, anemones, and cobra lilies. Snow-fed waterfalls cascade down its emerald slopes, and the towering peaks of Nilgiri Parbat loom in the background. The sheer variety of wildflowers here—over 500 documented species—makes it one of India’s most extraordinary natural spectacles.

MONSOON



Kashmir Valley’s Floral Tapestry

Dubbed ‘Paradise on Earth,’ Kashmir's alpine landscapes burst into bloom as the snow retreats.

Gulmarg, famed for winter skiing, transforms into a floral paradise in June and July. Buttercups, daisies, bluebells, and forget-me-nots blanket the meadows, framed by the majestic Apharwat Peak. Beyond Gulmarg, Yusmarg— 50kms. from Srinagar—offers a quieter escape, where wild irises, blue poppies, and rhododendrons bloom beside pine forests, with the Doodh Ganga River winding through.

The Hidden Blooms of Himachali Thaches

Scattered across the Dhauladhar, Pir Panjal, and Greater Himalayan ranges, thaches—highaltitude grazing meadows—erupt in floral splendour each summer. Unlike Uttarakhand’s vast bugyals, these meadows are tucked between ridges, framed by jagged peaks and deep valleys, creating a more intimate yet dramatic spectacle.

Kugti Thach, within Kugti Wildlife Sanctuary near Bharmour, is a riot of rhododendrons, blue poppies, and Himalayan primroses, with the mighty Manimahesh Kailash towering beyond. Further south, Thachi Valley in Kullu is a lesser-known wonder, blanketed in wild orchids, violets, and daisies, with deodar forests and apple orchards adding to its rustic charm.

For the rarest of blooms, Deo Tibba Thach, on the way to Deo Tibba Base Camp, stuns with Himalayan blue poppies, cobra lilies, and the sacred Brahma Kamal—delicate yet resilient against the stark glacial backdrop.

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The Alpine Glory of Uttarakhand’s Bugyals

High-altitude bugyals—rolling alpine meadows—define Uttarakhand’s summer landscape. Perched above 3,000mtrs., these pastures remain snowbound in winter but burst into floral brilliance with summer’s arrival.

Bedni Bugyal stuns with Himalayan asters, gentians, and daisies, set against Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks. Nearby, Ali Bugyal stretches endlessly, its slopes speckled with wildflowers and bathed in golden sunlight. Easily accessible, Dayara Bugyal offers panoramic views of Bandarpunch and Kalanag or Black Peak, while Panwali Bugyal, along the Kedarnath route, unfolds a floral spectacle against the backdrop of Gangotri and Yamunotri.

BLOOMS THAT KEEP YOU WAITING

Some flowers don’t follow the usual seasonal script. Their blooms are rare, fleeting, and almost mythical—appearing once in several years before vanishing, leaving behind only anticipation. This phenomenon, known as monocarpy, sees plants flower, seed, and die, their life cycle culminating in one breathtaking display. No one knows exactly why they do this, but their rarity makes them all the more fascinating.

Neelakurinji

Found only in the Western Ghats, the Neelakurinji is a flower of legend. Once every twelve years, it blankets the hills of Munnar, Ooty, and Kodaikanal in shades of deep blue and purple. For a few short weeks, the hills seem to pulse with an otherworldly glow. The next bloom is expected in 2030.

A close relative of the Neelakurinji, the Karvi plant follows a shorter seven-year cycle. Found in the Sahyadri hills of Maharashtra, it erupts in violet blooms that transform the landscape. The next mass bloom is expected in 2025 or 2026.

WHEN THE HILLS BLUSH PINK

While Japan’s cherry blossoms are world-famous, India’s northeastern states put on their own breathtaking display every autumn. Come autumn, the hills of northeast India trade their greens for dreamy pinks, as wild Himalayan cherry trees burst into bloom.

In Sikkim, Yumthang Valley and Rabong transform into a painterly palette of blush hues, set against the Eastern Himalayas. In Meghalaya, Shillong hosts the India International Cherry Blossom Festival, when Prunus cerasoides trees across the city and its outskirts bloom, turning roads and parks into a pastel dreamscape. In Nagaland, the Japfu Hills near Kohima surprise with a late-autumn spectacle—cherry blossoms mingling with towering rhododendrons, nature’s own stroke of genius.

AUTUMN (SEPTEMBER – NOVEMBER)

Karvi

FROM BATTLEFIELDS TO TOURIST TRAILS

India's new frontier in heritage tourism lies high in the icy expanse of Drass, Kargil, and Demchok, where history was carved in conflict. India is unlocking its most guarded battlegrounds for civilian visitors.

DEEPALI NANDWANI

In the thin air surrounding the snowy mountains of the Drass-Kargil sector, even sturdy helicopters strain to stay aloft. The mountains of Drass, Batalik and Kargil are a sheet of ice—an uninhabited, barren, glacial world. Much like the Siachen glacier, located in the eastern Karakoram range in the Himalayas, near the Indo-Pak and ChinaPak borders, which holds immense strategic and geopolitical significance for India.

Not many Indians may know about the high, icesheathed battlegrounds, but Kargil, and more recently Demchok in Ladakh, which witnessed a stand-off with China, are emblazoned in many memories.

The Indian government has now decided to open some parts of 77 historically significant battlefields for tourism under its Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan, with 21 in Arunachal Pradesh, 14 in Ladakh, 11 in Jammu and Kashmir, and seven in Sikkim to civilian visitors. This initiative, led by the Ministries of Defence and Tourism, aims to boost border region economies and foster patriotism. Many are stark, breathtaking landscapes where history was forged in conflict.

Once-forbidden zones are now accessible, though with careful regulation. Among the newly accessible sites are key locations in Arunachal Pradesh, such as Tawang, Bum La, Gorsam, Lohit, Kameng, and Walong. Ladakh’s Demchok and Galwan—where violent clashes occurred in 2020—are also on the list, along with Pangong Tso, a site of multiple military standoffs since 1962.

The initiative recognises that these sites hold more than just strategic importance; they are living testaments to the sacrifices made by India's armed forces.

To make this journey possible, a digital gateway has been created. The Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan app acts as a guide, offering historical context, virtual tours, and the crucial ability to obtain permits for these sensitive areas. It's a blend of technology and history, designed to bring these remote locations closer to the hearts of the people.

CLOCKWISE FROM OPPOSITE: An ice stupa is an artificial glacier that stores winter water for use in the summer; Drass, which was in the line of fire of Pakistani soldiers in 1999; the rugged, icy landscapes of Siachen.

Safety protocols

Connecting the infrastructure dots

Recent infrastructure development, particularly along the Line of Actual Control, has enabled battlefield tourism. The government has significantly expanded road networks and constructed new bridges and tunnels since the Galwan incident. Plans for increased rail infrastructure are underway. This initiative builds on improved border infrastructure, encompassing sites from the 1962 and 1967 conflicts with China, to the 1971 Battle of Longewala with Pakistan.

The Centre, along with the Rajasthan government, has developed and curated the Longewala border, and its associated history—the Tanot Mata temple, Kishangarh Fort, and Longewala War Memorial along with the picturesque villages within the vast desert landscape—have become major tourist attractions in the area.

General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff, has said that the battlefield tourism initiative is part of a "holistic development of border areas," providing a "one-stop solution" for travel information via its website.

He outlined four key pillars: infrastructure, communication, tourism, and education. As the Additional Directorate General of Public Information, Indian Army, posted on X: "The Indian Army is transforming border areas and historic battlefields into tourist destinations, offering citizens a chance to witness valour up close. Explore the hallowed grounds where gallant soldiers fought and serve the motherland, even today."

The Indian Army plays a vital role in ensuring visitor well-being, especially in high-risk zones, and clear protocols are in place. While core operational areas remain off-limits, the aim is to provide a meaningful experience, allowing citizens to understand the challenges and triumphs of those who defend the nation's borders. Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Shekhawat, in a written reply to Lok Sabha, has said, “In high-risk border zones, visitors are required to coordinate with army units for safety and clearances, facilitated via a single window, while in highaltitude areas, precautions have to be adopted and acclimatisation protocols are also being advised.” However, entry to certain high-altitude locations will be regulated and special permits can be issued for security purposes. Emergency evacuation protocols by the army are in place to provide immediate medical assistance, officials said, adding that weather advisories are issued to prevent mishaps in extreme conditions.

The local impact

The impact extends beyond mere sightseeing. Local economies are expected to thrive, as tourism brings new opportunities to these often-isolated regions. Small businesses will emerge, and communities will find renewed purpose. With the improvement of infrastructure, these areas will become better connected, fostering a greater sense of national integration. India, clearly, is writing a new chapter in its relationship with its military history. By opening these battlegrounds, it's not just promoting tourism; it's fostering a deeper understanding of national identity and the enduring spirit of its soldiers.

Pangong Tso Lake, which spans Ladakh (India) and Tibet administered by China, is the de facto border between India and China.

CELEBRATING SUKOON

A unique cultural event, The Sacred Amritsar celebrates India’s legendary mystic poets through diverse mediums in a city known for its religious tourism.

SUMAN TARAFDAR

Masta Bhaya Man, Phir Kya Bole Re, Magna Bhaya Man, Phir Kya Bole Re…

Approximately translated, it would mean: ‘A person who is enlightened from within, has attained nirvana, eternal peace, has no need to talk further.’

The immortal words of the 15thcentury mystic Kabir, brought to life magically by a contemporary band, Kabir Café, seemed to capture the essence of the unique festival that is The Sacred Amritsar.

Indeed, Amir Khusrau, Begum Akhtar, Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Kumar Gandharva, Amrita Pritam and many more legends of Indian music seemed to descend on Amritsar, at least in spirit, during this unique three-day medley of music and spirituality, which seems to address the soul as few events do.

The Sacred Amritsar Festival is a unique cultural event that celebrates the rich tapestry of Amritsar's spiritual heritage through music, poetry, and art.

Held annually, the festival brings together renowned artists, thinkers, and performers to honour the city's indomitable spirit and diverse cultural legacy.

Amritsar is characterised by its high volume of religious tourism, primarily to the city’s top landmark, the Golden Temple, a central religious place of the Sikhs and a symbol of human brotherhood and equality.

Also called Sri Harmandir Sahib, the temple’s shimmering gold façade, the sacred Amrit Sarovar (holy pool) surrounding it, and the continuous kirtan (devotional singing) create an atmosphere of deep devotion. The temple attracts 30-35 million visitors (3-3.5 crore) annually, making it one of the most visited religious sites in the world

Beyond the Golden Temple, Amritsar is also significant for its langar (community kitchen), where thousands of people from all walks

of life are served free meals daily, embodying the Sikh principles of seva (selfless service) and equality.

The city also holds importance due to sites such as Akal Takht, the highest seat of Sikh temporal authority; Durgiana Temple, an important Hindu pilgrimage site; Jallianwala Bagh, a memorial site that stands as a reminder of India's struggle for freedom; not to mention the Partition Museum. Amritsar is also a part of the heritage circuit developed by the Ministry of Tourism under Swadesh Darshan 1.0, which includes the circuit of Anandpur Sahib, Fatehgarh Sahib, Chamkaur Sahib, Ferozpur, Khatkar Kalan, Kalanour and Patiala, as per details from the Ministry of Tourism Swadesh Darshan 1.0 data.

Amritsar’s deeply spiritual energy, combined with its history, warm hospitality, and rich culinary heritage, makes it a city that nourishes the soul, whether you are a pilgrim, a traveller, or someone seeking solace. "Amritsar is steeped in history and spirituality, home to the Golden Temple and a rich legacy of Sufi and Sikh traditions," says Sanjoy Roy, Managing Director, Teamwork Arts, which produces

CLOCKWISE ON THIS SPREAD

FROM LEFT: Unlike many religious structures that are elevated, the Golden Temple is built lower than the surrounding areas, inviting people to step down into the sacred space; Four new museum galleries have been built at Jallianwala Bagh, showcasing rare documents, photographs, and interactive exhibits about the massacre and India’s freedom struggle; Kalapini Komkali, daughter of Pandit Kumar Gandharva and Vidushi Vasundhara Komkali, honours her father at the festival; The partition museum narrates stories of love, loss and life before India was partitioned through the stories of the people.

the festival. "The city’s deep-rooted cultural and musical heritage aligns perfectly with the festival’s ethos of celebrating sacred and poetic traditions. Venues like Gobindgarh Fort and the Partition Museum provide an immersive, historically resonant setting."

Namita Gautam, Director, Sheela Group of Companies, whose brand Sleepwell is the presenting partner of the festival, points out: "When you talk of Amritsar, you feel sacred. The congregation of people of different ages from all over the country and outside is a very good chance for bonding, especially with great music."

For the 2025 edition, delegates had come from as far afield as Singapore, the UK and the US expressly to attend the festival, which is building a new level of awareness for the city across the world. As Narayan Singh, owner of a phulkari store close to the Partition Museum, one of the multiple venues for the festival, said, the festival adds a new dimension to the city’s tourism landscape by bringing in audiences who may not come to Amritsar otherwise.

The Sacred Amritsar designs its programming to capture this ethereal essence of the city during

AMRITSAR VS. OTHER MAJOR RELIGIOUS TOURISM DESTINATIONS

AMRITSAR

Golden Temple 30-35M (3-3.5 crore)

Kashi Vishwanath Temple 20-25M (2-2.5 crore)

a three-day celebration. Steeped in the music of many bygone mystics, largely through modern renditions, the festival has a range of sublime offerings that instil a feeling of ‘sukoon’, peace/contentment.

Now in its third edition, the festival has expanded its offerings, refining its balance of music, literature, and heritage experiences. "This year sees an enhanced focus on immersive heritage walks and a richer dialogue on cultural memory, with more literature sessions at the Partition Museum," says Roy. "The Delegate Package has been introduced to offer exclusive experiences like reserved seating,

Tirumala Venkateswara Temple 35-40M (3.5 to 4 crore)

Ajmer Sharif Dargah 10-15M (1-1.5 crore)

Source: Ministry of Tourism, Government of India

curated walks, and Amritsari cuisine."

The festival curates a diverse lineup of artists whose work embodies the spirit of mysticism, poetry, and cultural heritage. Featuring a blend of legendary performers and contemporary voices, the programme offers artistic depth while ensuring meaningful audience engagement.

"Each year, we carefully select acts that showcase the universality of sacred traditions across regions, genres, and generations," says Roy. "We also strive to introduce fresh and unique performances, bringing new artistic flavours to Amritsar

Ganga Aarti & Spiritual Ashrams 15-20M (1.5-2 crore)

while staying true to the festival’s theme and ethos."

For hoteliers, collaborating with the festival adds another dimension to their offerings. The festival's official website indicates that partner hotels like Taj Swarna and Welcomhotel ITC Amritsar were sold out during the event, even at room rates as high as ₹56,000/night.

The Sacred Amritsar is not just a festival but a journey through time, music, and storytelling, elaborates Roy. "The festival creates moments of ‘sukoon’ through a carefully crafted programme that honours the past while resonating with the present."

Annual visitors (million/crore)

VARANASI

TIRUPATI

AJMER RISHIKESHHARIDWAR

The festival focused on immersive music, besides heritage walks and literary sessions.

TIDES OF CHANGE

From beach clean-ups to mangrove regeneration, IHCL’s Shoreline initiative, guided by its ESG+ framework Paathya, is turning the tide for coastal hospitality, blending environmental stewardship with community action.

Early one morning on Mumbai’s coastline, hotel associates and local youth fan out across the sand, collecting plastic bottles, discarded fishing nets, and other waste. This isn’t a one-off effort but part of IHCL’s larger mission to protect India’s fragile shorelines. In just four months, clean-ups in Mumbai—led by IHCL in partnership with United Way Mumbai—have removed nearly 50,000kg of waste from the city’s beaches, each bit ensuring a cleaner, safer coastline.

Guardians of the coastline

IHCL’s commitment to sustainable tourism runs deep. “As custodians of some of India’s most iconic coastal destinations, we recognise the need to protect fragile ecosystems,” says Gaurav Pokhariyal, Executive Vice

RUPALI SEBASTIAN

BELOW: An IHCL team member participating in a cleaning drive which has resulted in the removal of 50,000kg of waste from Mumbai's beaches alone.

President – Human Resources, IHCL. Through Paathya, the company has laid out an ambitious environmental strategy, with initiatives ranging from eliminating single-use plastics to achieving 100% renewable energy. But nowhere is this effort more visible than along India’s vast coastline, where Shoreline marries hospitality with habitat restoration.

This initiative takes a twopronged approach—mitigating environmental risks while restoring marine ecosystems. Large-scale beach clean-ups, mangrove plantations, and partnerships with environmental organisations are central to the mission. Across Goa, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and the Andaman Islands, IHCL’s coastal teams work to remove plastic waste before it re-enters the ocean. Recyclables are diverted from landfills, and by

Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa, Kovalam

Taj Kumarakom Resort & Spa, Kerala

Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Cochin

Taj Wayanad Resort & Spa Kerala

Taj Bekal Resort & Spa, Kerala

Bangaram Resort (IHCL SeleQtions), Lakshadweep

Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa, Goa

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Goa

Taj Cidade de Goa Horizon, Goa

Taj Lands End, Mumbai

The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai

Ginger Diu, Jalandhar Beach

Taj Puri Resort & Spa, Odisha

Taj Fisherman's Cove Resort & Spa Chennai

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans

All along peninsular India, IHCL's coastal properties such as Taj Fort Aguada Resort & Spa, Goa (OPPOSITE ABOVE), Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Cochin (OPPOSITE BELOW), and Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andamans (RIGHT) have contributed to a cleaner shoreline.

COASTLINES

keeping the sand and surf debris-free, IHCL is safeguarding sea turtles, marine birds, and other coastal wildlife.

Communities as stakeholders

At the heart of Paathya’s impact is community engagement. “Sustainable impact is only possible when communities become active stakeholders in conservation efforts,” Pokhariyal affirms. In Mumbai alone, over 1,000 residents—30% of them women—have joined IHCL’s beach clean-ups and awareness drives.

Beyond clean-ups, street plays on waste management are helping spark conversations, while college partnerships are mobilising student volunteers. The initiative is shifting mindsets, encouraging locals to become custodians of their own coastal landscapes.

Greening the blue horizon

IHCL’s coastal properties stand as proof that luxury and sustainability can coexist. Taj Exotica Resort & Spa in the Andaman Islands, India’s first Zero Single-Use Plastic Hotel, exemplifies this ethos. Set within 46 acres of rainforest and mangroves on Havelock Island, the resort has eliminated plastic straws, single-use cutlery, and disposable bottles, replacing them with bamboo amenities, glass water bottles, and biodegradable packaging. Guided nature trails further immerse guests in local conservation efforts.

Across IHCL’s seafront resorts, similar initiatives are taking shape. Many hotels now bottle their own drinking water, drastically reducing plastic waste and carbon emissions. Solar energy is increasingly harnessed, cutting down dependence on non-renewable sources. Meanwhile, recognising the critical role of ‘blue carbon,’ IHCL has

launched mangrove restoration projects across Goa, Kerala, and the Andaman Islands, where these resilient trees act as natural shields against erosion and rising sea levels.

A sustainable future for coastal hospitality

With Paathya’s long-term vision, initiatives like Shoreline are transforming IHCL’s coastal hotels into model eco-friendly destinations. The results are already visible. Beaches are cleaner, enhancing both the guest experience and marine biodiversity. Coastal habitats are beginning to heal, while local communities are taking ownership of conservation efforts.

IHCL’s commitment to climateresilient hospitality is more than a corporate sustainability effort—it’s an integrated approach to environmental responsibility.

“Our vision is to integrate sustainability into every facet of our operations, ensuring that our hotels not only provide worldclass experiences but also protect the landscapes they inhabit,” says Pokhariyal.

As the tides continue to reshape India’s coastline, IHCL is ensuring that each wave carries not just change, but hope—hope for cleaner oceans, empowered communities, and a hospitality industry that truly gives back to the environment.

Taj Puri Resort & Spa, Odisha (LEFT ABOVE), and Taj Lands End, Mumbai (RIGHT ABOVE). Across destinations such as Goa, Kerala, and Odisha, IHCL’s coastal teams work to remove plastic waste before it re-enters the ocean.

BOUT IQUE

B LUE P RI I N T

THE STORY OF BARI KOTHI FROM FORGOTTEN TO FOREVER

Once abandoned, this Sheherwali mansion’s journey is a testament to meticulous restoration, cultural preservation, and a vision that defied time.

RUPALI SEBASTIAN

There was a time when Azimganj, a riverine town in Murshidabad, was a thriving centre of wealth and culture. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was home to the Sheherwalis, a Jain merchant community from Rajasthan who built some of Bengal’s grandest mansions. Among them stood Bari Kothi, built by Rai Bahadur Budh Singh Dudhoria in the late 1700s, a palace where royalty dined and the Bhagirathi carried echoes of whispered negotiations and celebration.

But history turned, and so did Azimganj’s fortunes. As British trade shifted to Calcutta, Murshidabad declined, and by the mid-20th century, land reforms and economic upheavals forced Sheherwali families to abandon their ancestral homes. Bari Kothi was left to decay—roofs collapsed, frescoes crumbled, and time etched its own story into the walls.

"Every time it rained, we’d get a call saying another section had collapsed," recall Darshan and Lipika Dudhoria, descendants of the family that once lived there.

Returning wasn’t easy. “It was eerie,” Darshan admits. “My father slept with a gun under his pillow.”

But the deeper question remained— if they didn’t restore Bari Kothi, who would?

What began as a modest effort to restore one courtyard soon turned into something much bigger. Canadian conservation architect Dr. Samar Chandra guided the restoration, focusing on preservation over replacement. Original wooden beams were reinforced, lime plaster replaced

PREVIOUS PAGE: The Gaddi Ghar is accommodated in a loggia delineated by delicate arches.

ABOVE: Architecturally, Bari Kothi is a fusion of Rajasthani, Bengali and European influences.

BELOW: Bada Aagan with a fountain (no longer functional) which once brought life and beauty to the courtyard.

cement, and stained-glass windows were carefully restored.

Then, National Geographic discovered Bari Kothi. Their feature on the restoration became a turning point. Encouraged, the family restored another wing, then more rooms. First, the family gatherings returned. Then friends came flocking.

Then, one evening, they hosted 500 guests.

From family legacy to boutique heritage hotel

“The house had to sustain itself,” says Darshan. “And what better way than to let people experience it the way it was meant to be?” What started as a personal effort to restore a family home soon transformed into something much larger—a boutique heritage hotel, part of the RARE India collection. Every space was restored with painstaking detail, ensuring that guests weren’t just staying in a hotel but immersing themselves in a living piece of history.

The guest accommodations at Bari Kothi reflect its heritage while offering an intimate luxury experience. The 15 rooms are divided into three categories: Heritage Suites, Royal Heritage Suites, and Maharaja Heritage Suites, all adorned with period furniture and artefacts—some more than a century old. Amar Pakshi, inspired by the mythical phoenix, features stunning stained-glass elements that cast shifting colours across the room, a tribute to the theme of rebirth and renewal. Mardana Mahal, restored with painstaking care, showcases antique Bengal bricks salvaged from the ruins, while Diamond Kamra, named for its elegance, features intricate detailing that captures the understated sophistication of Sheherwali grandeur.

Beyond the rooms, Bari Kothi’s public spaces reflect its deep-rooted past. The Gaddi Ghar, where the family once held court, has been transformed into an intimate lounge, a perfect contrast to the Darbar Hall, which showcases the grand European architectural influences that crept into Sheherwali homes over time. Both, incidentally, count among Darshan’s favourites. “Every corner has a story to tell, but these are like a seat of history, of power, of a lot of conversations.”

A stay steeped in storytelling

Bari Kothi is more than just a beautifully restored mansion—it is an experience, meticulously curated to immerse guests in the Sheherwali way of life. Every detail, from the first chime of temple bells in the morning to the

candlelit evenings by the river, is part of a grand narrative that celebrates the culture, history, and traditions of Azimganj. Guests wake up to the rhythmic lapping of the Bhagirathi and sip morning chai as the soft golden light filters through stained-glass windows, just as the Sheherwalis once did. Meals unfold as a sensory journey through centuries-old recipes, each dish a tribute to a lost culinary heritage, from the fragrant kathal biryani to saffronlaced sweets.

For Darshan, these experiences came from necessity as much as vision. “When I knew I had to protect the boys and girls who work here, I had to ensure we attracted the right kind of traveller. That meant curating an experience that matched the price point we were charging. So, we started crafting things that we ourselves would pay for—experiences that were meaningful and rooted in the land.” That philosophy has shaped every hour of a guest’s stay. No moment is left unconsidered—whether it’s a guided heritage walk through Azimganj’s forgotten lanes, a boat ride at dusk as the river glows with floating diyas, or an impromptu conversation with a local artisan.

The storytelling extends to the grand celebrations hosted at Bari Kothi. Among them, the most significant is Durga Puja, which the family has pledged to continue for nine years. Guests at Bari Kothi don’t simply witness the puja; they are guided through every step, understanding the symbolism, the artistry, the cultural depth behind the grand spectacle that unfolds.

Every experience at Bari Kothi is carefully mapped, ensuring that no guest is ever left idling—unless idling itself is an intentional part of their itinerary. “We’ve done very controlled experience planning,” Lipika says. “The host spends the first few hours getting a sense of what the guest enjoys, and then advises them—why don’t you do this, or maybe try that?” That might mean a deep dive into textile traditions, an afternoon of pottery, or an evening of Baul music that echoes through the corridors, connecting the past with the present. Designed not just for immersion but for preservation, these curated experiences safeguard both the tangible and intangible heritage of the region—celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of the Sheherwalis while also honouring Bengal’s wider artistic, musical, and culinary traditions.

Luxury here is not about excess—it is about time, space, and immersion. There are no infinity pools or over-the-top indulgences. Instead, Bari Kothi offers something far more rare: the opportunity to step into history, to linger in spaces where generations have come before, and to reconnect with a slower, more thoughtful way of life.

The Darbar Hall: vibrant majolica tiles, delicate chandeliers, ornate rose artwork, handpainted glass doors create an atmosphere steeped in history.

BELOW:

For Darshan and Lipika Dudhoria, the measure of success is not just the revival of their ancestral home but its impact on the community. The restoration process has provided employment to local youth, transformed unskilled workers into a skilled workforce, and touched lives beyond a single hospitality entity. Bari Kothi's transformation has not gone unnoticed—the property has been recognised with prestigious accolades, including the title of 'Heritage Grand Hotel of East India' by the India’s Ministry of Tourism. As the sun sets over the Bhagirathi, casting golden light on Bari Kothi’s Corinthian pillars, it is clear that the effort has been worth it. What was once a ruin is now a sanctuary. A palace that had fallen silent now hums with life once more.

REINVENTING HERITAGE DINING

In a state renowned for its love of fish and meat, Bari Kothi stands apart as a purely vegetarian destination— an unconventional yet deeply intentional choice. “We lose 20-30% of our business just by being vegetarian,” admits Darshan Dudhoria, Co-founder, Bari Kothi, “but every guest who dines here walks away convinced that vegetarian food can be extraordinary.”

Rather than serving predictable staples, Bari Kothi has turned Sheherwali cuisine into an immersive experience, where storytelling is as much a part of the meal as the flavours on the plate. The dining experience unfolds in seven carefully curated

courses, allowing guests to focus on the intricacies of each dish rather than the usual thali-style mix. Every meal is an education in history and migration—why does Kheere ki Kachori, a crisp pastry filled with refreshing cucumber, exist? What’s the origin of Saloni Mewa ki Khichdi, a delicately spiced rice dish with nuts?

Seasonal delicacies like Neemus, an airy saffroninfused milk froth, and Pitha, sweet dumplings similar to dim sums, are prepared with timehonoured techniques, their intricate folds a work of art in themselves. “We serve anything but ‘iPad’—I eat Paneer, Aloo, Dal,” Darshan jokes. Every dish has a history, and guests leave Bari Kothi not just with memories of a meal but with a newfound appreciation for India’s vegetarian heritage.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Siblings Lipika and Darshan Dudhoria, founders, Bari Kothi.

RIGHT: The boutique hotel serves delectable fare from the Sheherwali cuisine.

The Theatre Balcony, from where the family once watched live performances.

Restoring a heritage property is one thing, but running it as a boutique hotel is another.

To top that, you and Lipika were first-time hoteliers—what was that experience like? It was daunting, to say the least. I know I’ve shared a lot of happy stories, but the reality is that we worked incredibly hard to get Bari Kothi off the ground. Terms like FTOs, FITs, and DMCs meant nothing to us at first— we had to start from scratch, learning the language of the tourism business.

On top of that, we launched at the worst possible time—right before COVID hit. And our other businesses—textiles and retail—also took a massive hit because of the pandemic. Hospitality and retail were two of the worst-affected sectors, and we were caught right in the middle of both.

The restoration itself was another challenge. Murshidabad had incredible craftsmanship in its past, but most skilled artisans had left for bigger cities. The best carpenters were running their own shops, focused on their businesses rather than taking on projects. But when you start something with clarity of purpose, when you commit to making it work, the world opens up for you. Solutions present themselves. One

Darshan Dudhoria

CO-FOUNDER, BARI KOTHI WITH

The co-founder of Bari Kothi on restoring a Sheherwali palace, redefining luxury through authenticity, and creating a sustainable model where heritage, hospitality, and community thrive together.

connection leads to another, one door opens to another, and slowly, things start falling into place.

Ironically, what we thought was our worst nightmare—the pandemic—became the unexpected turning point. Before COVID, we had hosted almost exclusively international guests. But with travel restrictions in place, people from Kolkata, who had very few options for weekend getaways, started coming to Bari Kothi. It was just a four-hour drive away, and suddenly, we became a buzzword.

Why did you choose to hire and train local staff instead of bringing in experienced professionals from cities like Kolkata? It started as a very practical question—where would we find our team? Initially, we considered bringing in people from Kolkata, but then reality set in. Would they truly understand the ethos of Bari Kothi? Would they blend into the environment? And if they didn’t, would our guests feel that disconnect? Then there was the question of logistics—where would they stay? How would they adjust to life in a small town like Azimganj? At the same time, something incredible was happening around us. During the restoration, we had young men

and women working as daily wage labourers—picking up stones, moving bricks, clearing debris. And among them, some stood out—sharp, observant, eager to learn. One day, we just thought—why not ask them? Why not train them? And that’s how it began. One thing led to another, and before we knew it, we had a 30-member strong team—locals who didn’t just understand the property, but also the community, the history, and the kind of people who would visit. And every single person who works here lives close by. They either walk, cycle, or take a tuk-tuk, no more than 20 minutes from Bari Kothi.

How did you determine the pricing for Bari Kothi?

It was a fascinating process, actually—one that unfolded organically as we were restoring the property. The question was simple: if we were going to open our doors to guests, how do we price our rooms? We realised very quickly that we didn’t want just anyone walking in. Bari Kothi is not just about providing a place to stay; it’s about heritage, culture, and community. We wanted people who would appreciate and respect that.

We knew that if we priced ourselves at ₹5,000 or ₹7,000 a night, we would attract a different kind of traveller—one who might not value the historical and cultural depth of the place. That wasn’t the experience we wanted to create. So, we set our pricing aggressively at ₹16,000 to ₹20,000 per night in different package formats, ensuring that those who came were genuinely interested in what we were offering.

To be honest, a big part of it was also about protecting our team. The last thing I wanted was a guest walking in and speaking down to them—mocking their English, questioning their skills, or treating them with disrespect. That wasn’t something we were willing to compromise on.

Inclusivity seems to be a defining pillar at Bari Kothi. Was this always part of the plan, or did it evolve naturally?

Honestly, none of this was mapped out on an Excel sheet or written as a mission statement. It just happened. Our part of the world has such a diverse demographic, and people from all backgrounds found their way here. If someone had the right attitude and willingness to work, they became part of Bari Kothi— regardless of caste, creed, or faith.

Take our Diwali puja, for example. For the past seven years, it has been conducted by a Muslim girl. It’s become a tradition now, and we never even thought twice about it. And it’s not just religious inclusivity— our team is made up of women, transgenders, Santali tribals, and even those with disabilities. One of our most hardworking team members is deaf and mute.

Guests interact with him, and somehow, despite no spoken words, there is a connection. I’ve seen guests embrace him when they leave, forming bonds that go beyond language.

Sustainability is a word that’s often used in different contexts. What does it mean to you at Bari Kothi?

Sustainability is one of those words that gets thrown around a lot these days—it’s attached to textiles, organic food, eco-tourism, and so on. But for me, it’s something much deeper. It’s not just about ticking off a checklist of "green" initiatives. Sustainability, in my eyes, is about causing minimal damage to the environment while actively enabling it to thrive. If we can achieve that balance, then we are truly sustainable. So now impact has taken centre stage. Our model is called Project HHH—heritage, hospitality, humanity—building humanity through hospitality by saving heritage. Today, we are very proud that we’ve ticked off 13 of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. And in the next project that we're looking to do, we’re hoping achieve 17 out of 17.

How has Bari Kothi contributed to the local economy?

Bari Kothi has directly or indirectly impacted the livelihoods of at least 5,000 to 10,000 people in the local

LEFT: The Gaddi Ghar was once a hub for money lending, and has safes hidden with the walls. The delicate fluted Burma teak pillars contrast well with the striking diamond-patterned flooring. The ceiling is adorned with exquisite Murano chandeliers.

BELOW LEFT: A glimpse from Bari Kothi of the neighbouring buildings showcases the boutique property's historic milieu.

BELOW RIGHT: The kothi's delicate metal work, like the rest of the elements, has been painstakingly restored.

community. I’ll never forget the first people who came to thank us—it wasn’t the hotel staff, it wasn’t even our guests. It was the boatmen. They told us, “You’ve quadrupled our income.” The impact was immediate and tangible.

But for us, the realisation was clear—we could have built our own fancy boats, we could have imported furniture, we could have created a ‘picture-perfect’ heritage hotel. But that would have made us outsiders in our own land. We couldn’t impose a vision that was disconnected from the people who still lived here. Instead, we focused on two things: keeping everything genuine and authentic.

Who is the typical Bari Kothi guest?

Internationally, our guests are usually seasoned travellers, often slightly older, who have already seen the usual hotspots and now seek deeper cultural immersion. They appreciate history, storytelling, and authenticity. On the domestic

front, however, it’s much more varied. We host milestone celebrations—40th birthdays, 50th anniversaries, even remarriages in a traditional Bengali setting. We had a French couple travel all the way from Paris to celebrate their 50th anniversary with a Bengali wedding. Imagine—firsttime visitors to India deciding to get married in Murshidabad! That’s the power of social media and word of mouth.

Broadly, our guests are people who are done with cookie-cutter hotels. They don’t want soulless banquets or copy-paste luxury. They are looking for something that feels personal, immersive, and meaningful. And the most incredible part? Nearly 30% of our guests are repeat visitors.

How do you strike a balance between offering a luxury experience while maintaining authenticity?

I define luxury in three ways: the quality of what

A Royal Heritage Suite. This category of rooms are furnished with 250-year-old furniture and rich fabrics.

you touch and feel, the quality of the people you interact with, and the quality of time spent in a place.

At Bari Kothi, we’ve ensured that every physical touchpoint is of the highest standard. The bed linens, towels, and furnishings are all top-notch, designed to meet the expectations of a discerning traveller. But beyond material luxury, what truly elevates the experience is the human connection. The people who work at Bari Kothi are not just following scripted courtesies—they are genuinely invested in every guest’s experience. When they ask you what you do, they truly want to know.

The third aspect of luxury is how time is spent. Every experience at Bari Kothi is deeply curated. Whether it’s a heritage walk, a boat ride, or a storytelling session, it’s about narrating history with accuracy and passion. The way we structure our tours, the attention to detail, the effort to make every experience immersive—that, to me, is true luxury.

What’s next for Bari Kothi?

We’ve always believed that heritage restoration can be more than just preserving buildings—it can transform entire districts. That’s the vision for what’s next. Over the next five to seven years, we plan to restore five more Bari Kothis, each with its own distinct history, while maintaining the same ethos of authenticity, community engagement, and cultural revival.

We are already in the process of acquiring a second property, and this is where the real test begins—can we replicate this model? Can we take what we’ve done in Azimganj and apply it to another district, ensuring that the revival of one haveli creates an economic and social ripple effect?

If this works, we are no longer just restoring old mansions; we are creating a scalable model for heritage conservation and rural impact. That’s the dream—to build something that doesn’t just preserve history but actively uplifts the communities around it. If we can do that, then we’ve truly created something transformative.

Looking towards the Mardana Mahal, across the Amtala courtyard from the Janana Mahal. A jharokha, emblematic of Rajasthani architecture, links the two.

Mardana Mahal: The floor beneath the bed has been crafted from leftover slats of the original kharkhari (louvered) windows. The china surkhi (lime plaster) restoration is unique to this room.

BHAR AT K I KHOJ

In a candid conversation, India’s Union Minister of Tourism & Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, reveals the inner workings of his ambitious plan to revolutionise the nation's tourism sector, from addressing the complexities of FTAs to unveiling plans for the 'world's biggest museum'.

DEEPALI NANDWANI

CREATIVE DIRECTOR TANVI SHAH

PHOTOGRAPHED BY ROHIT GUPTA

As India’s Union Minister of Tourism & Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat juggles highstake meetings, travel, and policy decisions, with days stretching from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m . Yet, even at 10 p.m. , after a gruelling schedule, he remains sharp—both on and off camera—answering tough questions on why India struggles to attract foreign tourists and how the country can ease the business of tourism and hospitality, with a sense of equanimity.

Shekhawat says he is spearheading a transformative vision for the country’s tourism sector, with a “strategic focus on sustainability, global partnerships, and education, and aims to position India as a premier destination while ensuring long-term economic growth and cultural and environmental preservation”.

One of the government’s ambitious art-meets-travel projects is what he calls “the world’s biggest museum,” a collaboration with France’s national museum, Musée du Louvre, personally led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Though still under wraps, this initiative promises to be a game-changer.

Shekhawat has consistently emphasised tourism’s role in economic development, social inclusion, and sustainability.

At the G20 Ministerial Meeting in Belém, Brazil (September 2024), he reinforced India’s G20 theme—Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (One Earth, One Family, One Future)—advocating for resilient, inclusive tourism policies that balance growth with responsible stewardship. Engaging with tourism leaders from Brazil, Spain, Saudi Arabia, and other key nations, he focused on cultural exchange, visa facilitation, and improved air connectivity—critical factors in making India more accessible to global travellers.

Beyond policy and diplomacy, Shekhawat says he is tackling a fundamental industry challenge: the skill gap in hospitality and tourism education. Championing Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), he has facilitated MoUs between Central Institutes of Hotel Management (CIHMs) and leading hotel chains to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and workforce readiness—ensuring India’s hospitality sector remains globally competitive.

With an ambitious goal to raise tourism’s GDP contribution from 7.9% to over 10% within five years, Shekhawat is driving infrastructure expansion, launching new tourism schemes, and attracting private investment. His vision, he adds, is not just about growth—it’s about shaping a tourism landscape that is economically vibrant, environmentally responsible, and globally competitive.

In conversation with SOH, he shares that Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) continue to remain low but domestic tourism has proved to be a money spinner for the industry, why he believes tourism is a powerful employment generator in an economy which will turn “32 trillion” by 2047, and how the central government, under Prime Minister Modi, is facilitating this growth by building infrastructure that enables private sector and state-led sustainable tourism models.

WITH

GAJENDRA SINGH SHEKHAWAT

And yet, India doesn’t seem to be attracting too many foreign tourists and our foreign tourist arrivals continue to be at an all-time low…

2019 was India's best year for FTAs, with 10.3 million visitors. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021 crippled global tourism, but Hindustan ne kafi recovery ki hai (India has since made a strong recovery). Lekin agar hum peer competitors ke saath mein compare karein (if we compare ourselves to our competitors), Thailand attracts 40 million tourists, while Dubai sees 25 million. Bharat, despite its growth, receives only 13 million. On a global scale, France leads with 90 million annual tourists, followed by destinations such as Switzerland and the UK. That said, apart from the United States, no other country sees as many domestic travellers as Indians.

If you were to define India as a travel destination and outline its strengths, what would they be?

Hindustan is a land of unparalleled diversity, offering every experience a traveller could seek. From snowcapped mountains and skiing to sun-soaked beaches and surfing, from majestic forts and royal palaces to vibrant tribal cultures, and from lush wildlife sanctuaries to breathtaking landscapes—Bharat has it all. Rich in history, heritage, craftsmanship, and cuisine, it is also a hub for music, cultural festivals, and MICE events. As a destination, Bharat delivers a 360-degree travel experience, catering to every kind of explorer.

Hindustan ka domestic tourism hi Hindustan ki sabse badi taakat hai (India’s domestic tourism is its biggest strength.) The country’s economic growth has boosted disposable incomes, particularly among the middle class, shifting the travel landscape. Domestic travellers now outspend international tourists, reducing the industry's reliance on foreign visitors. Previously, hoteliers aspired to attract tourists from the Western world; today, no hotelier depends solely on them—Indians are significant spenders.

However, Bharat remains an expensive destination for budget travellers, who comprise 70% of inbound tourists. Meanwhile, for higher-income Indians, international destinations such as Baku in Azerbaijan, Dubai, Thailand, and Sri Lanka are often more affordable than domestic alternatives. This pricing dynamic partly explains why Bharat attracts fewer foreign tourists compared to its global counterparts, despite its vast tourism potential.

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: Kashmir's large-scale lavender cultivation is a new tourist favourite; from majestic forts to exhilarating wildlife, Rajasthan offers a variety of experiences; new destinations are being developed in Kashmir to ease pressure on popular ones such as Gulmarg, seen here.

ABID BHAT; PHOTOS BY THEBUGADI, SUMAID PAL SINGH BAKSHI; BOTH ON UNSPLASH

“

BHARAT REMAINS AN EXPENSIVE DESTINATION

FOR BUDGET TRAVELLERS, WHO MAKE UP 70% OF INBOUND TOURISTS. THIS PRICING DYNAMIC PARTLY EXPLAINS WHY BHARAT LAGS BEHIND GLOBAL COUNTERPARTS IN ATTRACTING FOREIGN TOURISTS, DESPITE ITS

VAST TOURISM POTENTIAL."

Domestic tourism, however, has surged. Ayodhya saw 13 crore visitors in the past year—surpassing the world's most-visited cities, which see around 9 crore tourists annually. Over 55 crore pilgrims have attended the Kumbh Mela, a scale unmatched globally.

As domestic travel booms, infrastructure is expanding in parallel. A Google Analytics study shows a 24% year-on-year rise in searches related to Indian tourism post-COVID. While this doesn’t directly equate to arrivals, it reflects strong interest. Hindustan’s tourism sector itself is growing at a CAGR of over 24%, highlighting its immense potential.

Can tourism elevate India’s global soft power, much like its cinema, culture, and cuisine?

Absolutely. Bharat is no longer just a destination—it is a global force. Soft power isn’t just about foreign visitors experiencing our culture; it’s also about Indian travellers shaping perceptions abroad. With outbound tourism surging, the demand for Indian travellers is skyrocketing worldwide.

The recent South Asia Travel & Tourism Exchange (SATTE) and Open Travel Market (OTM) expos saw 60–70 countries participating at full strength, eager to tap into the Indian market. This reflects Bharat's growing economic influence and global relevance, which, in turn, is driving the acceptance of Indian culture, science, and traditions. Aaj Pradhan Mantri ke initiatives ki wajah se, yog ko, Ayurved ko, humare organic and traditional agriculture ko, humare superfoods, jaise millets, ko, poori duniya accept kar rahi hai (take yoga—it

has gained worldwide recognition, thanks to Bharat’s rising stature and the Prime Minister’s initiatives. Ayurveda is now embraced globally, as is our organic and traditional agriculture. Millets, once a staple in Bharat, are now celebrated as a global superfood).

The world’s appetite for Indian music, crafts, cuisine, and culture will only grow. This is Hindustan’s true soft power—and soon, we will not just participate but lead on the global stage.

Can India’s tourism sector thrive through public-private collaboration? Should hotels, restaurants, and other stakeholders work more closely with the government?

Tourism bina private investment ke chal hi nahi sakta, sirf Bharat nahi, poori duniya mein (tourism cannot function without private investment across the world).

The government’s role is to facilitate tourism growth, and it has done so by building critical infrastructure. Over the past 10 years, Bharat has constructed 1,50,000kms. of roads, doubled the number of airports, and launched semi-high-speed trains—with further expansion planned across roads, railways, airways, and waterways.

States are now competing to attract tourism investment, offering incentives to drive growth. A longstanding industry demand was infrastructure status for tourism and hospitality projects to enable access to long-term, low-interest loans. The government has addressed this by granting infrastructure status to investments in 50 iconic destinations, creating a positive industry outlook. To further support growth,

₹3,400 crore has been sanctioned to states under a special incentive scheme. Project approvals consider state readiness, future tourism potential, private investment feasibility, and sustainability.

Globally, private investment is crucial for tourism, and Hindustan is no exception. The government's facilitation, coupled with private sector participation, is key to unlocking the sector’s full potential.

For alternative destinations and unique experiences to thrive, last-mile connectivity is crucial. What steps is the government taking to improve it?

As I mentioned, the government acts as a facilitator, providing essential infrastructure—roads, airport and rail connectivity, sewage systems, drinking water, inner roads, and security—to enable private investment. Without this foundation, tourism growth is impossible. For every new destination, these elements are built organically into the plan. Since tourism is a state subject, we have urged states to prioritise holistic destination planning. The response has been remarkable—states are now more competitive than ever in marketing and developing tourism infrastructure. Having long been associated with the hospitality industry, I have never seen such a dynamic push for tourism as I do today.

What are the incentives the government is offering to attract investment in tourism and hospitality?

Rajasthan has the best tourism policy among Indian states. We have drafted a new policy by

“

TOURISM CONTRIBUTES 5.6% TO BHARAT'S FORMAL ECONOMY, BUT IF WE INCLUDE RELIGIOUS AND SPIRITUAL TOURISM, THE SECTOR’S IMPACT RISES TO 10% OF GDP. AS BHARAT’S ECONOMY GROWS— FROM $4 TRILLION TODAY TO $32 TRILLION BY 2047—TOURISM’S SHARE WILL EXPAND PROPORTIONALLY."

incorporating the best aspects of Rajasthan’s model and those from other states. Today, if you invest in tourism infrastructure in Rajasthan—such as building a hotel—land conversion is free, a singlewindow clearance system is in place, electricity tariffs are capped, there’s interest subvention, reduced license fees, and GST incentives. These measures make hotel construction significantly more viable for private investors. Iske saath, promoter ko agar long-term finance mil jaaye aur bank ka interest rate kam kar diya jaye, to unke liye bada incentive hota hai (beyond this, long-term financing and lower bank interest rates provide additional incentives for promoters).

We have seen a radical increase in the hospitality industry with these incentives. Consider Taj Hotels—after its first hotel, the Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai, it took 55 years to open a second. Then, reaching 100 hotels took decades. Today, five new hotels join the Taj portfolio every month, with similar expansions under Marriott and Radisson. This growth is driven by rising demand and government incentives, attracting massive investments.

Currently, tourism contributes 5.6% to Bharat's formal economy, but if we include religious and spiritual tourism, the sector’s impact rises to 10% of GDP. Looking ahead, as Bharat’s economy grows— from $4 trillion today to $8 trillion in the next 6–7 years, and $32 trillion by 2047—tourism’s share will expand proportionally. By then, tourism alone will contribute as much to Hindustan’s economy as the entire economy does today.

The Union Budget for 2024-25 allocated ₹2,479 crore to the tourism sector. What are the government's priority areas, and how will these funds be distributed?

Post-Covid, the global perspective on tourism has shifted significantly, with experiential tourism taking precedence. Travellers now seek immersive experiences rather than just sightseeing, making the creation of new tourism products a top priority. Additionally, with a quantum jump in traveller numbers, congestion at established destinations has become a challenge. To address this, the government is focused on developing alternative tourism destinations and introducing new offerings at existing locations—jaise ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ so that Goa ke beaches ko decongest kiya ja sake (for instance, the ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ initiative aims to decongest Goa’s beaches). Similarly, nine new destinations are being developed in Kashmir, ensuring a diversified tourism landscape.

Another key focus is expanding hotel infrastructure to meet the growing demand. Room tariffs in India are significantly higher than in peer destinations like Thailand or Dubai due to limited supply. With rising Indian spending power, there are no vacant rooms at key destinations. Increasing the number of hotel rooms will naturally help regulate pricing. The rapid growth of tourism also necessitates skilled manpower. The government has aligned educational institutes, state-run tourism bodies, and the industry to provide training tailored to market needs.

TOURISM BINA PRIVATE INVESTMENT KE CHAL HI

NAHI SAKTA, SIRF BHARAT NAHI, POORI DUNIYA

MEIN (TOURISM CANNOT FUNCTION WITHOUT PRIVATE INVESTMENT ACROSS THE WORLD). THE GOVERNMENT’S ROLE IS TO FACILITATE TOURISM GROWTH, AND IT HAS DONE SO BY BUILDING CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE.”

Sustainability is a global challenge, and the government is encouraging stakeholders to adopt eco-friendly practices. A new hotel ranking system based on sustainability—from 2-leaf to 5-leaf ratings, similar to the star-rating system—has been introduced to promote green initiatives. Finally, the government is focusing on enhancing traveller interactions by training youth, taxi drivers, hotel staff, homestay owners, shopkeepers, and souvenir sellers to foster responsible tourism. A 360-degree approach is being implemented to revitalise the entire tourism sector, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for visitors.

Eco-tourism is gaining global importance, and India, with its environmentally sensitive zones like the northeast and the Himalayas, has immense potential in this space. Do you think we can successfully develop ecologically responsible tourism in these regions?

As tourism infrastructure expands and visitor numbers rise, eco-sensitive zones face unique challenges and pressures. To promote sustainable tourism, we are focusing on homestays. With government support, 1,000 homestays are being developed in tribal areas, allowing visitors to experience indigenous culture, craft, and cuisine. Additionally, leading hotel brands are investing in luxury homestays—Taj has already begun developing its own, with other groups following suit. We will continue to facilitate the growth of such sustainable tourism models.

Many of India’s popular destinations, such as Goa and Manali, are facing overcrowding. Do you see an urgent need for more effective destination management?

Destination management ki shuruvaat decongestion se karni hogi, jiske liye hum alternative experiences and destinations develop kar rahe hain (destination management begins with decongesting overcrowded locations by developing alternative destinations and experiences). We are actively working on this through initiatives like ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’, a prime example of destination management. Similar efforts are underway across various locations. For instance, to decongest Gulmarg and Sonmarg, we are creating parallel and even better offerings. In Kashmir, we have introduced large-scale lavender cultivation, which has drawn nearly five million tourists this season alone. This floriculture initiative has become a new and unique experience, further enriching Bharat's tourism landscape.

Which segments of tourism do you see as the future?

Every segment of tourism will grow, but Bharat is poised to become a major destination for MICE— meetings, incentives, conferences, and events. After the capacity-building efforts following the G20, destinations across the country—from Delhi to Mumbai, Ahmedabad to Odisha—now have the infrastructure to host large-scale events, with 2,000 to 3,000 high-standard rooms available at each location. Additionally, as extravagant weddings remain a

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Homestays are being developed in eco-sensitive zones to allow visitors to experience indigenous culture, craft, and cuisine; improving infrastructure, such as semi-high-speed service of Vande Bharat Express, is making accessibility easier; the spotlight on the immensely popular Goan beaches is now being shifted to its other touristic offerings like backwater kayaking.

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TOURISM CAN BE BUILT AROUND

MULTIPLE CULTURAL VERTICALS—CRAFT,

CUISINE, MUSIC, AND DANCE. TODAY, TRAVELLERS PRIORITISE EXPERIENCES OVER SIMPLY VISITING MONUMENTS. BHARAT IS UNIQUELY POSITIONED TO CATER TO BOTH. ”

strong trend in Bharat, an increasing number of international travellers are choosing the country for destination weddings, making this a significant sector for the future.

A leading international food magazine recently listed three Indian destinations among the world's top 50 for travellers seeking authentic culinary and cultural experiences. How can India further elevate its food and dining scene to attract visitors solely for its cuisine?

Culture ke jitney bhi aspect hai, woh craft ho ya cuisine, woh music bhi ho ya dance, un sab ke verticals par tourism khada kiya ja sakta hai (tourism can be built around multiple cultural verticals—craft, cuisine, music, and dance). Today, travellers prioritise experiences over simply visiting monuments. Bharat is uniquely positioned to cater to both. For the aspirational middle class—25 crore people who have moved out of poverty, largely due to PM Modi’s initiatives—monumental tourism remains a source of joy. However, for the established middle class, upper middle class, and Gen Z, experiential tourism is becoming the driving force. They seek destinations inspired by craft, culture, cuisine, and music, shaping the future of Indian tourism in entirely new ways.

Many restaurateurs and hoteliers find licensing and compliance processes cumbersome, leading to delays in project completion. How are these

blocks being addressed by the government?

All licenses and permissions for tourism are issued at the state government level, while the Indian government provides overall policy guidance. To streamline the process, we created a comprehensive policy incorporating the best practices and shared it with the states for adoption. States such as Goa, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan were already implementing these measures, while Meghalaya, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh have now introduced highly investmentfriendly policies. Nearly all states are moving towards single-window clearances to expedite tourism and hospitality projects, ensuring faster execution and smoother investment processes.

State policies vary, leading to inconsistent visitor experiences. Do you think a national policy that gives a little more than guidelines to all states would help?

We have prepared a draft investment policy and shared it with the states. For training, we have aligned with all state governments and their institutes. While the gap you mentioned may persist for some time, Rajasthan's deep-rooted culture of hospitality has given it a natural advantage. However, awareness is growing in other states, and they are actively working to enhance their tourism offerings.

We have learned that the Government of India is planning to establish a major museum.

HINDUSTAN HAS ONE OF THE RICHEST CULTURAL TRADITIONS IN THE WORLD, WITH HISTORICAL RECORDS SPANNING OVER 2,000 YEARS THROUGH EXCAVATIONS, TEXTS, AND WRITTEN RECORDS. INSPIRED BY THE PRIME MINISTER, BHARAT IS NOW WORKING TOWARDS ESTABLISHING THE WORLD’S LARGEST MUSEUM. ”

Could you share some details about this initiative?

Hindustan has one of the richest and longest cultural traditions in the world, with historical records spanning over two thousand years through excavations, texts, and written records. Inspired by the Prime Minister, Bharat is now working towards establishing the world’s largest museum.

France, known for its expertise in adaptive reuse, has been involved in this initiative. The Louvre Museum, for example, was formerly France’s finance ministry. Similarly, Bharat is transforming the North and South Blocks outside Rashtrapati Bhavan into this grand museum. Planning and mapping are underway in collaboration with the Government of India, the National Museum, and Agence de Museum, in France.

This museum will surpass the Louvre in capacity and showcase Bharat's 10,000-year developmental journey—from ancient to modern Bharat. With vast collections from institutions such as the National Museum, Indian Museum, Victoria Memorial in Kolkata, and Salar Jung Museum, Hindustan possesses an unmatched repository of antiquities and artefacts.

Efforts are also underway to digitise these collections and collaborate with nearly 80 museums across states, integrating their most significant exhibits. While historical museums worldwide display only about 15% of their collections, and the new museums in Dubai have very little to showcase, Bharat currently exhibits just 3% of its vast treasures. This museum will offer an unprecedented opportunity to showcase India’s rich heritage to the world.

What role will technology play in preserving India's art and culture? How can we leverage it effectively?

The future will increasingly rely on digital platforms to showcase tourism products and cultural heritage. Museums, whether dedicated to stamps, railways, or other themes, can be marketed effectively through digital media, virtual tours, and online experiences. Tourism marketing has evolved—print media is nearly obsolete, and today’s travellers are inspired by Instagram reels and digital content. To stay relevant, we must promote our tourism offerings through modern digital channels, aligning with how the new generation discovers and engages with travel experiences.

You talked about Instagram reels, but largely Instagram reels focus on the destination. The wealth that we have in our country, our art, our artefacts, culture, palaces, all of that is probably not represented too well.

Aapne bilkul sahi kaha hai (you are right). The Indian government lacked a comprehensive repository. While revamping the Incredible India website with state collaboration, we recognised the need for more. We've engaged states and freelance photographers to contribute images and are now systematically creating reels and photographs to enhance our visual storytelling.

India launched the Incredible India campaign 20 years ago, a pivotal initiative in tourism promotion.

Do you think it's time to expand or reimagine it to align with evolving travel trends?

We have already begun this evolution—marketing India as Irresistible India, soon to become Inevitable India. The goal is to ensure that for any global traveller, Bharat is the first destination that comes to mind. We are working towards making this vision a reality.

At the start of your career, you travelled extensively across India, including its border regions. What was that experience like, and what did it reveal about the country?

As a traveller, I have driven across India multiple times with my wife and children, covering the country extensively—from Jodhpur to Bengal four times and the entire northeast. I have also spent nearly 20 years working in Bharat's border areas, travelling across all land borders, giving me a deep and firsthand understanding of the country. Additionally, my work and business have taken me across the world. Bharat holds immense opportunities, and as infrastructure improves, accessibility will only get better. While airports have been built, the number of aircraft still falls short of demand. Currently, Indian operators have 840 aircraft, but within three years, 1,700 new ones will be added, taking the total to 2,500. Similarly, Vande Bharat Express, with around 80–85 trains today, is set to expand to 590 in the next five years.

THE BEYOND B IO

GAJENDRA SINGH SHEKHAWAT

DURING YOUR TRAVELS ACROSS INDIA, WAS THERE A DESTINATION THAT WAS TRULY EYEOPENING FOR YOU—ONE THAT OFFERED A NEW PERSPECTIVE OR LEFT A LASTING IMPRESSION?

TO STAY RELEVANT, WE MUST PROMOTE OUR TOURISM OFFERINGS THROUGH MODERN DIGITAL CHANNELS, ALIGNING WITH HOW THE NEW GENERATION DISCOVERS AND ENGAGES WITH TRAVEL EXPERIENCES. ”

The first time I visited Arunachal Pradesh, I travelled to Tawang and then to Bumla with my daughter. There, on the border, we came across Koyna Lake—known to many as Madhuri Lake after a song from a Madhuri Dixit film was shot there. Seeing it felt like stepping into heaven.

In Leh, Chandratal appears along the way, and when you witness the mountains reflected in its pristine waters, it feels almost unreal. Meghalaya’s caves, stretching 25 kilometres into the earth, offer an experience beyond imagination. At Bhimbetka, seeing

2,500-year-old Panchatantra stories carved into stone is truly astonishing. And in Rajasthan, the sheer opulence and intricate carvings of its forts and palaces leave you in awe. Everywhere you go in Hindustan, the beauty is breathtaking—each destination an eyeopening wonder.

WHAT DOES TRAVEL MEAN TO YOU?

Pehle to mera passion hua karta tha, aur aaj mera profession hai. (What was once my passion is now my profession.)

ANY DESTINATION OR TOURIST SPOT THAT HAS BEEN AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE?

Always Tawang. Its natural beauty is unparalleled.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE HOTEL?

I travel 29 days a month, sleeping in a new place every night, so I don’t have favourites. My travels across Bharat were never planned—unlike today, with Google and OTAs for booking. We relied on an atlas, deciding the destination on the go. I can sleep in a tent, a car, a five-star hotel, or a small lodge— it’s the experience that matters, not the hotel.

But if I had to pick one, Umaid Bhavan Palace in Jodhpur would be my favourite. IS THERE ANY DESTINATION WHERE YOU FELT THE FOOD WAS TRULY OUT OF THIS WORLD?

That’s a tough question because I enjoy the local food wherever I go. Aloo paratha in Punjab, Amritsar’s lassi,

South Indian delicacies, and Hyderabad’s biryani—each region has its own incredible flavours. To pick just one would be unfair to the rich and diverse culinary heritage of India.

RAJASTHAN IS YOUR HOME STATE—HOW WOULD YOU DEFINE IT IN A FEW WORDS?

Hospitality is woven into Rajasthan’s DNA. Nowhere else in the world will you experience such warmth and genuine welcome. The richness of its culture, the vibrancy of its colours, and the depth of its traditions are unparalleled. The respect and faith embedded in its language, the purity of its people, and the sheer diversity of its landscapes—from the hills of Mount

ABOVE: Bundi, according to Shekhawat, is an underrated Rajasthani gem.

BELOW: The minister finds Tawang's natural beauty "unparalleled."

Abu to the jungles of Ranthambore, the sands of Jaisalmer to the mountains of Mewar— make Rajasthan truly extraordinary.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP OFFBEAT RECOMMENDATIONS IN RAJASTHAN?

Bundi remains an underrated gem, yet to receive the recognition it deserves. With its stunning forts, lush jungles, majestic palaces, and natural beauty, Bundi has immense potential. Mark my words—once the airport becomes operational, Bundi will emerge as a top destination in Hindustan.

IF YOU WEREN’T A POLITICIAN, WHAT CAREER PATH WOULD YOU HAVE CHOSEN?

I was already engaged in multiple fields— working on international borders for 20 years, running a technology company, and managing agricultural farms worldwide. Beyond that, I was involved in various other ventures. I would have continued along those paths.

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WOMEN RESHAPING INDIA'S HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY

While the hospitality industry still navigates a gender disparity, remarkable women are spearheading change. We spotlight influential female hoteliers, exploring their paths to leadership, their definition of what it takes to be a leader, and their perspectives on fostering a truly inclusive future.

DEEPALI NANDWANI

Women in the hospitality industry, particularly in top managerial positions, remain significantly underrepresented.

They make up less than 20% of the overall workforce, with only 10% holding key managerial personnel (KMP) positions, despite ongoing efforts to improve diversity. Female directors account for less than 20% of total board positions, according to the Mind the Gender Gap report by CFA Institute and CFA Society India. Take, for instance, one of India’s largest hospitality groups, IHCL, which aims to increase women's participation in its workforce to 25% by the end of 2025, up from 18% in 2022. This initiative is part of their She Remains the Taj framework, which also includes supporting women-led businesses and providing skill training to around 25,000 women over five years. However, most other hospitality groups offer little data on female representation within their workforce and managerial teams. Clearly, much remains to be done to ensure more women advance within hospitality organisations and climb that ladder to the top. And yet, many have made a significant impact. We reached out to some of the most influential women general managers across luxury, mid-market, and budget hotels to discuss their passion for hospitality, their inspirations, and, in the spirit of our women’s unique qualities, a few quirky questions— such as which movie would best represent their hotel and which historical guest they would love to host.

NIKITA RAMCHANDANI

MULTI-PROPERTY VICE PRESIDENT - MUMBAI AND GENERAL MANAGER AT JW MARRIOTT MUMBAI JUHU

I truly discovered my passion for hospitality once I started working full-time. I found myself drawn to the dynamic environment of a hotel. Being surrounded by people energised me, and I loved the sense of accomplishment that came from getting things done.

I thrive in places and situations where actions lead to tangible results, and the hospitality industry offers just that. Beyond the tasks and goals, it's the vivacity of the hotel that really excites me. I firmly believe in the power of energy, and hotels create an atmosphere that is both vibrant and inspiring.

I decided to pursue hospitality almost by chance after attending various vocational seminars, one of which led me to a hotel management institute. I was immediately drawn to the field and, at a pivotal moment in my life, had the opportunity to study hotel management in Switzerland. It was my first real step into the industry, where I met people from across the world and realised my potential. After graduation, I joined a luxury hospitality group in Orlando, Florida. Hospitality quickly became a key part of my journey, and what keeps me excited is the constantly changing and ever-evolving nature of the work.

Being a woman in hospitality does set you apart. In a room full of men, you naturally stand out. Early on, and even now, I have often been one of the few

“ Being a woman in hospitality does set you apart. In a room full of men, you naturally stand out. While the industry is still skewed, I see it as an advantage—there’s more visibility, and that often opens doors.”

women in the room. But I’ve always felt supported by my male colleagues and never uncomfortable in the minority. While the industry is still skewed, I see it as an advantage—there’s more visibility, and that often opens doors. At the same time, there’s no substitute for talent, and when you bring skill and determination to the table, you earn the respect of your peers, regardless of gender.

The most unexpected challenges came during the pandemic. No one prepares you for something like that.

Innovative, inclusive, and result-oriented—that’s how I would describe my leadership style.

If I could change one thing about the hospitality industry, it would be compensation and working hours.

The perfect hotel experience is when you feel like you are the most important person in the world.

The hotel I admire most evolves with different stages of life. At one point, I would have preferred a resort offering a variety of activities to make the most of my time. Now, however, I find myself drawn to more relaxed getaways. I favour properties that truly understand and cater to these shifting preferences.

While I don’t see it as a guilty pleasure, if I had the time, I would enjoy a spa experience when staying at a hotel.

I unwind by spending time with my family, as I believe it’s crucial to disconnect. Some nights I go for a walk, other times I relax with calming content. It varies each day, but I always make sure to disengage—it’s something I find essential.

SUNAINA SHARMA MANERKER

RESIDENT MANAGER, PULLMAN AND NOVOTEL DELHI AEROCITY

Hospitality wasn’t my initial calling, but it became one over time. I was unsure about which degree to pursue and struggling to make a decision when my friend suggested hospitality. I stumbled into it by accident, and there has been no looking back since. What started as a choice eventually turned into a passion.

No two days in hotels are ever the same. Every day brings something new—it's high-energy, dynamic, and filled with opportunities to work with a vibrant team while meeting people from all walks of life. That’s what keeps me motivated as a hotelier.

The best hospitality experience is all about connection, empathy, and creating memorable experiences—qualities that often come naturally to women. Being a woman in this industry has allowed me to bring a unique perspective to guest experiences, team dynamics, and leadership. It has helped me build strong relationships, navigate challenges with resilience, and create an inclusive and welcoming environment.

Every day brings its own challenges, and that’s the beauty of working in a hotel. The most unexpected situations are often the ones that require quick thinking and instant decisions— knowing that each choice can have repercussions makes it both exciting and rewarding. That’s where the true fun lies.

Empowering, adaptive, and agile is how I see myself as a leader. I would like to see more women join hotels and an equality of women in leadership roles.

The perfect hotel experience—from the guest’s perspective—is one where every single guest leaves with lasting memories. It's about seamless service, thoughtful personalisation, and moments that stay with them long after they’ve checked out.

If my hotel were a movie, it would be a Karan Johar

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Being a woman has allowed me to bring a unique perspective to guest experiences, team dynamics, and leadership, and helped me build strong relationships.”

production—glamorous, larger-than-life, and visually stunning. But unlike his usual romance-driven films, this one would be packed with high-energy action, reflecting the fast-paced and dynamic world of hospitality.

I would love to host George Pullman for a week. As the visionary behind the Pullman sleeping car, which later inspired the Pullman Hotels, it would be fascinating to show him how his legacy has evolved. I’d curate an experience that pays homage to his innovation—a gastronomic journey reminiscent of grand railway dining and a bespoke suite designed like a vintage Pullman sleeper car. It would be a full-circle moment, bringing his brainchild into the modern era of hospitality.

I admire Raffles Singapore, for its timeless elegance and rich history. It embodies a perfect blend of heritage, luxury, and exceptional service, creating an experience that feels both iconic and intimate.

Indulging in exquisite food and decadent chocolate desserts is my ultimate guilty pleasure when staying at a hotel—there’s something about the luxurious setting that makes every bite feel even more indulgent.

I unwind by taking my dog for a walk. It’s the perfect way to clear my mind, reflect on the day, and even plan for the next one. There’s something about the simplicity of it that brings balance after a busy day at the hotel.

SHILPA RAMEJA

GENERAL MANAGER, TAJ CONNEMARA CHENNAI

Hospitality was never just a profession—it was my way of life growing up. Guests were always treated like family, and I still remember the sheer joy of seeing someone’s face light up when they were offered a warm meal. Making someone feel at home has always been a special feeling, and that’s when I knew hospitality was my calling.

I have always been drawn to people and their experiences, and hospitality allows me to connect with them in the most interesting ways. What keeps me motivated is the thrill of creating memorable experiences for guests and going the extra mile to ensure they return.

Hospitality is all about empathy and relationshipbuilding, and women naturally bring these strengths to the table. Being a woman in this industry has given me the opportunity to champion diversity and inclusivity. Women are shaping the future of hospitality, and I am proud to be part of this change.

Running an all-women-managed property came with its own challenges—breaking stereotypes and building confidence. I tackled this by creating a strong support system and empowering my team through training and mentorship to ensure the highest service standards.

People connection, engagement, and infusing positivity define my leadership style.

Creating an environment where employee wellbeing isn’t just a priority but the norm is something I would love to change in the hospitality industry. Happier teams lead to better service, which ultimately results in a more memorable guest experience.

At Taj Connemara, Chennai, we craft truly bespoke experiences where heritage, hospitality, and personalised luxury come together seamlessly. The

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I am always drawn to hotels that beautifully balance heritage and modernity, places that have stood the test of time while preserving their rich history.”

perfect hotel experience is one where guests feel a sense of timeless elegance from the moment they arrive—where history meets modern comfort, and culinary experiences celebrate the soul of the city. Whether it’s a quiet retreat in our heritage rooms or a bespoke dining experience at Raintree, the goal is always to make every guest feel valued and eager to return.

Taj Connemara would be best represented by a movie that is a timeless icon, one steeped in history and charm—a film that balances old-world grandeur with contemporary elegance, just as the hotel blends its colonial heritage with modern luxury.

A movie like Guide, featuring the legendary Waheeda Rehman, comes to mind when I think of a film that would perfectly represent my hotel. She is a symbol of timeless beauty and grace—a lady who never ages and continues to captivate audiences across generations. In the same way, Taj Connemara has stood tall through the years, exuding grace and sophistication while continuing to fascinate its guests.

Hosting Queen Elizabeth II would have been an extraordinary honour, especially since she visited Chennai during her tours of India. She would undoubtedly find Taj Connemara’s colonial charm and fascinating past truly captivating. We would curate a regal experience for her, beginning with a private high tea at the Lady Connemara Bar & Lounge, followed by an Anglo-Indian dinner at The Verandah. A heritage tour of the hotel would bring its storied past to life, leading into an elegant Chettinad-inspired dinner at Raintree, where an exclusive Bharatanatyam performance would pay homage to the city’s cultural heritage. To unwind, she would experience a signature J Wellness therapy, blending age-old Ayurvedic techniques with luxurious Indian ingredients—an experience truly fit for a queen.

I am always drawn to hotels that beautifully balance heritage and modernity, places that have stood the test of time while preserving their rich history. Taj Connemara, for instance, is where every corridor tells a story, inviting guests to step into a world where the past and present exist in perfect harmony. Similarly, the Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai—India’s first luxury hotel—is more than just an icon; it’s an emotion, deeply intertwined with the city’s history and culture, which is what makes it truly unique.

My guilty pleasure when staying at a hotel is indulging in some quiet time with myself—a glass of wine in hand, a good book to unwind with, or a rejuvenating spa experience to truly relax.

Unwinding after a long day of managing a hotel means coming home to my parents, my son, and my dog. Their warmth instantly refreshes me—whether it’s sharing stories over dinner or simply enjoying a quiet moment with my dog, it’s the perfect way to end the day.

SHEETAL SINGH

GENERAL MANAGER, TAJ EXOTICA RESORT & SPA, GOA

Growing up in Jammu, hospitality wasn’t just practiced—it was woven into everyday life. Guests were welcomed like family, with an extra cup of kehwa always ready and a warm place to sit. There wasn’t a single defining moment that sparked my calling; rather, it was a feeling that grew over time. I remember a distant relative arriving, visibly tired and a little lost. When we offered them a simple meal and a place to rest, their face lit up—a moment that stayed with me. That’s when I realised hospitality isn’t just about food or shelter; it’s about making someone feel truly cared for.

My passion for people and their stories drew me to hospitality. What keeps me motivated is the dynamic nature of this field—the constant evolution, the challenges, and the opportunity to craft memorable moments for guests.

As a general manager navigating the ever-evolving landscape of hospitality, I understand the challenges women face in leadership. However, I take pride in working for a company that actively champions gender equality, placing women in diverse, impactful roles. We also prioritise a healthy work-life balance for all employees, recognising that well-being is essential for both performance and personal fulfilment.

One of the most unexpected challenges in my career was during the early days of the pandemic when Taj Bangalore became a crucial hub for the Vande Bharat mission. At that time, Bangalore was the only operational airport in South India, and the situation was overwhelming, with travellers arriving by air and road, all in need of support. We had guests of all ages, including pregnant women, and the anxiety in the air was palpable. Ensuring their comfort while prioritising safety—both for them and our team—was uncharted territory. The paperwork alone was daunting, and the sense of urgency never faded. What made it manageable was the unwavering support from my then bosses, Mr. Somnath Mukherjee, Area Director Karnataka, and Mr. Gaurav Miglani, the General Manager. They didn’t just delegate; they stood beside us, rolling up their sleeves, offering guidance, and providing emotional support. It felt like we were a family facing a crisis together.

My leadership style is in three words: Collaborative, empowering, and adaptive.

If I could change one thing in the hospitality industry, it would be accelerating the shift toward

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If I could host any historical figure, it would be Leonardo da Vinci. His insatiable curiosity and innovative spirit align perfectly with the essence of our resort.”

genuine inclusivity and sustainable work-life balance. While progress has been made, there’s still a gap between acknowledging these values and embedding them into the industry’s DNA. We need to foster a culture where equal opportunities are the norm, and employee well-being is not just encouraged but prioritised. By doing so, we create a more equitable and fulfilling industry while driving innovation and resilience.

At Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, we craft truly bespoke stays. Our dedicated butler service anticipates every need, acting as personal concierges to curate tailored itineraries—whether a floating breakfast in the pool or personalised wellness experiences. Sustainability is central to our ethos, with 100% sewage treatment, zero sea waste disposal, minimal single-use plastics, and eco-friendly waste management. Through our ‘Paathya’ initiative, we’ve established a bottling plant and solar panel installations. Every element is designed for an exceptional, responsible luxury experience.

If Taj Exotica were represented by a movie, it would be a blend of timeless elegance and vibrant energy— much like the films shot here, including Dhoom, Bride & Prejudice, and Bhoothnath. We are a place where classic luxury meets dynamic experiences, and I take immense pride in the fact that such iconic movies have chosen Exotica as their backdrop. To truly experience the magic that captivated these filmmakers, I encourage everyone to watch these films and then visit us to see them come to life.

If I could host any historical figure, it would be Leonardo da Vinci. His insatiable curiosity and innovative spirit align perfectly with the essence of our resort. His stay wouldn’t just be about luxury; it would be an immersive experience. We’d arrange private sessions with local artisans, showcasing Goan crafts and techniques, allowing him to sketch and observe. Excursions to the surrounding landscapes would inspire his scientific mind, while a dedicated creative space would be set up for him to experiment and ideate—perhaps sketching new inventions as he watched birds fly over the sea. And, of course, we’d curate a spectacular meal blending old and new flavours for him to explore.

I’m drawn to hotels that seamlessly blend luxury with cultural immersion—those that provide a genuine connection to their surroundings. In that regard, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa in Goa stands out. It offers a truly ‘exotic’ experience, celebrating the beauty and spirit of Goa in a way that is both sophisticated and authentic.

Even as someone in the hospitality industry, I cherish the simple luxury of an uninterrupted beach walk—especially at a place like Taj Exotica. Letting the sound of the waves clear my head is a true indulgence. I also have a deep appreciation for wellness retreats; in an industry that never stops, finding a space to disconnect and recharge is invaluable. While I love every aspect of a stay, I’m particularly drawn to local experiences—engaging in food talks, understanding regional cuisines, and immersing myself in the culture of the destination.

After a demanding day at Taj Exotica, I focus on a mix of wellness and connection to unwind. Journaling helps me reflect and process the day’s events, while a calming bath or brief meditation allows me to reset. And no matter how busy the day has been, a conversation with my parents always brings comfort and perspective, grounding me amidst the fastpaced world of hospitality.

SHERYL OLIVEIRA FERNANDES E DE SA

GENERAL MANAGER, FAIRFIELD

BY MARRIOTT GOA CALANGUTE

Fresh out of college, standing at the bell desk for the first time in my life, taking luggage to guest rooms, and completing guest requests, I discovered something special about myself through that experience. The energy and connection with guests were so rewarding, even if the work was physically demanding. That kind of magic, where I could feel excited to go back to work despite the aches, is when I knew that this was it!

I originally studied to be a dietician, and hospitality wasn’t really on my radar. But two decades ago, finding a job in a hospital wasn’t easy, especially in Goa, where tourism is the dominant industry. Rather than waiting for an opportunity in my field, I decided to step into hotels—and it turned out to be the best professional decision I ever made.

Being a woman in hospitality hasn’t necessarily given me a unique advantage. If anything, I’ve had to work just as hard—if not harder—to get to where I am today. That said, I do find that as a woman handling irate guests can sometimes be easier, and diffuse situations faster. I’m incredibly grateful to have had supportive male colleagues and leaders along the way who have valued my work and contributions.

I would describe my leadership style as collaborative, transformational, and empowering.

For me, the perfect hotel experience is about making guests genuinely happy through sincere kindness and warmth. It’s the little heartfelt gestures, thoughtful service, and moments of joy— sprinkled with fun and laughter—that create lasting memories.

Among the most challenging situations we have faced, as hoteliers, is the pandemic. Nothing could be more unexpected than the pandemic.

If I could change one thing about the hospitality industry, it would be an unrealistic expectation that general managers are omnipresent and can handle everything at once. While we strive to be everywhere, true success in hospitality comes from empowering a strong team, fostering a great work culture, and ensuring seamless guest experiences through collaboration—not just individual effort.

The (hospitality) industry teaches you empathy above everything else. Knowing first-hand how hard hotel teams work behind those warm smiles, I make sure not to add to anyone’s workload as a guest.

Among the hotels I deeply admire are selectservice hotels, which are run with such efficiency while still delivering exceptional guest experiences. This tier of hotels faces a unique challenge— balancing lean operations, controlled staffing, and strict cost management—yet they manage to create memorable stays for guests. It’s a testament to the management and the dedication of their teams.

“ Being a woman in hospitality hasn’t necessarily given me a unique advantage. If anything, I’ve had to work just as hard—if not harder—to get to where I am today.”

If my hotel were a movie, it would either be a comedy—fun, light-hearted with a mix of emotions, but mostly happiness, kindness, and plenty of laughter—or the occasional challenge we dodge like a plot twist. Could also be an animated film, where each of us plays a unique character with our own quirks and personalities, yet we all come together in a story of love, teamwork, and joy.

If my hotel had an opportunity to host a historical figure for a week, I’d invite a legendary musician, as music is woven into the very soul of Goa. We’d immerse them in the rhythm of Goan beats, curating a vibrant experience filled with live music, traditional dance, and an authentic Goan feast. It would be a celebration of culture, connection, and the universal language of music.

At the end of a long day, I enjoy chatting with my sons, Dylan and Liam, while watching a movie.

DEVIDYUTI GHOSH

HOTEL MANAGER, MULBERRY SHADES BENGALURU, NANDI HILLS

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The perfect hotel experience is unobtrusive service, a perfect bed to guarantee a good night’s sleep, and a superb breakfast.”

I have to share this—I was a gawky, bespectacled teenager studying engineering and law (in a typical Bengali family like mine, these were assumed to be the only paths to success) but with very little enthusiasm to pursue these streams. Then, I was introduced to my brother’s friends who were staying at The Oberoi Grand Kolkata as cabin crew, and man, they were super glamorous, living in a very fancy hotel! I thought this was a life worth trying for sure (never mind that I later discovered the hard work that goes on behind the scenes). That’s when the hotel and hospitality bug bit me.

I wanted to do something different, and I felt that this industry would offer me opportunities to work in beautiful places and a different day to look forward to every morning. I sat for the hospitality entrance exam along with several others for engineering and law. However, as soon as I cleared all of them, my mother instinctively knew I should pursue hotel management. Honestly, to this day, the fact that no two days are the same, with so much to look forward to, has kept me motivated.

Being a woman in hospitality has given me an advantage at times—especially if my performance stands out, with a dash of humour and style. It’s always a rare combination, irrespective of gender.

I’ve handled several unexpected challenges in a hotel. While some incidents have been very serious, others have been outright funny when I look back. I think I could write a book on these—under an incognito name, of course! It would be a laugh-aminute and definitely a bestseller. I actually already have the title of the book in mind!

Enthusiastic, effective, and competitive—that’s how I would describe my leadership style.

I actually love the industry because it is so diverse—there’s truly something for everybody. Of course, more perks would be very welcome!

The perfect hotel experience is unobtrusive service, a perfect bed to guarantee a good night’s sleep, and a superb breakfast.

If my hotel had to be represented by a movie or a series, it would be The White Lotus. It’s my new

favourite series, and some of us actually feel like we’re starring in the episodes. They’re so relatable!

If my hotel could host any historical figure for a week, it would be Frida Kahlo. Her surrealism in art resonates with the story behind our resort, centred around a child who spent her best days with her grandmother in a traditional shingle-roofed home at the foothills, surrounded by nature. We have a beautiful art piece depicting our story. It would be fun to know her perspective, and who knows—she may have been inspired to create her next artwork here!

The hotel I admire most is any hotel with a nice spa. I love my off-time on holidays with no itinerary and would love to spend time in a spa.

An upgrade is the best gift for me while I am vacationing—it just makes me feel like I got a steal deal!

I unwind after a long day of managing a hotel by catching up with my family and my dogs. I also take time to read, watch something on OTT, or go out with my friends.

POONAM NAIR

GENERAL MANAGER, RADISSON RESORT HATGAD SAPUTARA

My inspiration (to join the hospitality industry) came from my love for connecting with people and creating meaningful experiences. Hospitality is a dynamic industry where no two days are the same, and that unpredictability keeps me motivated. The opportunity to lead a team, innovate, and constantly evolve to meet guest expectations has been incredibly fulfilling. Seeing my team grow and succeed and knowing we’ve made a difference in someone’s life is what drives me every day.

I vividly remember the first time I witnessed the sheer joy on a guest’s face after a seamless and memorable experience at a hotel where I worked early in my career. That moment reinforced the idea that hospitality is not just about service—it’s about crafting unforgettable experiences. The ability to create that impact every day made me realise this was my true calling.

Hospitality is about emotional intelligence, attention to detail, and creating warm, personalised experiences—areas where women naturally excel. At Radisson Resort Hatgad Saputara, this advantage is further amplified because the resort boasts a 30% diversity ratio, with women leading three out of 10 departments.

The resort is deeply committed to empowering women across various roles, ensuring that talent and leadership opportunities are accessible to all, regardless of gender. By actively promoting diversity and creating pathways for women to grow within the organisation, Radisson Resort Hatgad Saputara is not only setting benchmarks in hospitality but also reinforcing the belief that a balanced and inclusive workforce drives innovation, operational excellence, and exceptional guest experiences.

We foster a work environment where women are encouraged to lead and make impactful decisions. Our team includes talented women in key leadership roles, driving operational excellence across various departments. As a woman leading a diverse workforce, I bring a unique perspective that helps create an inclusive, guest-centric culture.

I also understand firsthand the importance of mentorship and growth opportunities, which is why I’m passionate about strengthening our efforts to empower more women within the resort. Our goal is not just to maintain diversity but to actively enhance it, making Radisson Resort Hatgad Saputara a benchmark for inclusivity in hospitality.

One of the most unexpected challenges I faced as a hotel GM was handling a last-minute event cancellation during peak season. It wasn’t just about logistics—it was about keeping the team motivated and guests happy during a stressful time.

As a woman leader, I relied on quick thinking and empathy to navigate the situation. I worked closely with my team, many of whom are women, to find solutions and keep everyone positive. It reminded me that challenges often bring out the best in us when we work together and stay resilient.

Empowering, collaborative, and visionary are words that best describe my leadership style.

I would strive to make the industry more inclusive and diverse at all levels. While progress has been made, there’s still work to be done to ensure equal opportunities for women. A more diverse workforce brings fresh perspectives and innovation, ultimately benefiting the industry as a whole.

The perfect hotel experience is one where every detail is thoughtfully curated to make the guest feel valued and cared for. It’s about seamless service, personalised touches, and creating a sense of belonging. From the moment they arrive to the time they depart, guests should feel that their needs are anticipated and exceeded, leaving them with unforgettable memories.

If our hotel had to be represented by a movie, it would undoubtedly be Eat Pray Love. Nestled in the tranquil landscapes of Saputara, our resort offers a perfect blend of indulgence, self-discovery, and cultural immersion—just like the film’s journey.

“ Hospitality is about emotional intelligence, attention to detail, and creating warm, personalised experiences—areas where women naturally excel.”

If Radisson Resort Hatgad Saputara could host any historical figure, we’d choose Maharana Pratap, the legendary Rajput warrior. We’d welcome him with a royal Rajput-style ceremony, a heritage suite inspired by Rajputana architecture, and live folk tales under the stars. He’d enjoy horseback rides through Hatgad’s scenic trails, a guided tour of Hatgadh Fort, and a traditional Rajputana feast. To honour his love for nature, we’d offer serene moments at Sunset Point and Saputara Lake, along with yoga and meditation in the hills. This experience would celebrate his legacy of valour, heritage, and connection to nature.

The hotel I admire most is Burj Al Arab in Dubai. It’s an iconic symbol of luxury, with its sail-shaped design and private island location. Known for its opulent duplex suites, 24-karat gold interiors, and unmatched service, it’s often called the world’s only 7-star hotel. From personal butlers to Rolls-Royce chauffeurs and even helipad arrivals, it redefines exclusivity and elegance. It’s a true inspiration for delivering extraordinary guest experiences.

I absolutely relish indulging in hours of pure bliss at the spa whenever time permits. There’s nothing more exquisite and surreal than embracing self-care and indulgent pampering, allowing every stress to melt away.

I also have an undeniable weakness for decadent desserts, delighting in every bite as I satisfy my cravings and indulge my taste buds in the finest sweet creations. After all, luxury is best enjoyed when it tantalises the senses and nourishes the soul.

I unwind by taking a quiet walk around the property’s scenic trails. The tranquillity helps me recharge and reflect. I also enjoy reading a good book or spending time with my family, which keeps me grounded and reminds me of what truly matters.

SONALI CHAUHAN

GENERAL MANAGER, THE CONNAUGHT, NEW DELHI - IHCL SELEQTIONS

I am an accidental hotelier—it (the industry) just happened (for me), and there was no looking back! Maybe I can blame (my love for the hospitality industry) a little on my genes too.

The unpredictability, the energy, and the people keep me motivated. No two days are ever the same, and that’s what keeps me going.

Women have an innate ability to multitask, empathise, and lead with intuition—qualities that are invaluable in hospitality.

There are several challenges you face while running a hotel—from medical emergencies to fullscale construction projects, I’ve seen it all. Looking back, each challenge was a lesson in resilience and adaptability.

Empathetic, dynamic, and innovative, is how I would define my leadership style.

If I were to change one thing about the industry, it would be how it is perceived as a service industry— it’s actually about people, passion and creating unforgettable experiences.

Seamless service, intuitive hospitality, and those little surprises that make a stay truly memorable make for a perfect guest experience.

If a movie was to represent my hotel, I would say it would be any of Wes Anderson’s films—quirky, vibrant, and full of character!

Not exactly historical, but I’d love to have hosted the late Michael Jackson! The lobby would make for the most stunning stage.

The hotel I admire most is the W Barcelona—it was refreshingly quirky and ahead of its time!

My guilty pleasure when staying at a hotel as a guest is a full spa and wellness indulgence—no questions asked!

A jar full of ice cream—Hot Chocolate Fudge, to be precise is my end-of-the-day indulgence.

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If I were to change one thing about the industry, it would be how it is perceived as a service industry— it’s actually about people, passion and creating unforgettable experiences.”

RADHIKA TATA

GENERAL MANAGER, GRAND MERCURE MYSORE

Hospitality is more than just service—it’s about forging connections, whether with guests or the talented team members we call ‘Heartists’. Engaging with individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds requires both adaptability and an appreciation for their uniqueness. Delivering

exceptional service is an ongoing journey of learning and growth in this ever-evolving industry.

As a woman leader in hospitality, I knew this industry was my calling when I realised the true joy of seeing our guests and Heartists, as we call our team members, smile. Success isn’t just about efficient operations or business growth—it’s about the people I serve and the team I lead. Perhaps it was the moment I saw how my leadership could inspire others, especially women, to step into roles they once thought impossible.

I hold a Master’s in tourism and hospitality and spent the first 12 years of my career in tourism, never imagining myself on the other side of the table, serving guests. But transitioning into hospitality showed me that success in this field demands deep passion. What I love most is the balance between people and numbers. I thrive on problem-solving and crafting seamless experiences for guests and teams alike. Every challenge pushes me to grow, improve, and break boundaries. To me, hospitality is about being dynamic, adaptable, and driven to make a lasting impact.

Being a woman in hospitality has given me unique advantages, particularly in building deeper, more empathetic connections with guests and team members. Hospitality is about understanding people—their needs, emotions, and expectations— and as women, we often excel in fostering these connections through natural empathy and strong communication skills.

Challenges are inevitable in hospitality, especially in a people-centric industry. In such a dynamic environment, empathy is the key to managing crises. The most unexpected challenge for me was navigating the COVID-19 crisis. The industry became incredibly vulnerable, and the stakes were higher than ever. It wasn’t just about keeping the business afloat—it was about supporting our team, their families, and stakeholders who depended on us. Running a hotel with limited resources under immense pressure taught me invaluable lessons in resilience, leadership, and adaptability.

That period pushed me to refine skills in multitasking and problem-solving while deepening my understanding of empathetic leadership. I focused on empowering our ‘Heartists,’ encouraging them to take on greater responsibility—fostering both their growth and team cohesion. Though a time of uncertainty, it reinforced the power of leading by

example and standing by your team when it matters most.

If I could describe my leadership style in three words, they would be empathetic, empowering, and adaptable. I believe in leading with empathy, and understanding the needs and emotions of both my team and guests. Empowering others is key—I strive to help my team grow, develop new skills, and take ownership of their work. Lastly, adaptability is crucial, especially in an industry like hospitality, where every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn.

I would like to change the perception of hospitality as a profession. Negative sentiment often deters talent, creating a shortage of skilled professionals willing to grow in the industry. Many see hospitality as a tough field, overlooking the incredible opportunities it offers. In reality, it’s a ‘green’ flag— both outwardly and from within. While the early years can be challenging, success in any industry takes time and effort. Recognising this is the key to attracting and retaining talent.

Another area that needs attention is the evolving expectations of guests. As generations change, so do their demands. Younger guests have very different expectations, and we must adapt accordingly. This shift also affects our ‘Heartists’. To meet these new demands, we need to invest in ongoing training, ensuring our teams are wellequipped to engage with and serve younger generations effectively. Whether it’s refining their communication skills, embracing technology, or anticipating emerging needs, continuous learning will benefit both our guests and employees, helping them thrive in this ever-evolving industry.

The perfect hotel experience begins even before arrival, with a seamless, personalised reservation process. Whether through an intuitive website or a warm conversation with a reservations agent, guests should feel welcomed and valued from the very first touchpoint. For me, true perfection is about creating a deep sense of belonging. While the room, amenities, and service matter, the most memorable stays come from feeling heard, understood, and genuinely cared for. Thoughtful touches and attentive service turn an ordinary stay into an unforgettable experience.

If my hotel had to be represented by a movie, it would be Chak De India. The film perfectly reflects the spirit of our team at Grand Mercure Mysore.

“ We need to invest in training our teams to well equip them to engage with younger generations, who have different expectations.”

Just like in the movie, we come from diverse backgrounds, each bringing unique strengths, experiences, and perspectives. However, what unites us is our shared goal: not just to make Grand Mercure Mysore successful, but truly exceptional.

If my hotel could host any historical figure for a week, it would be Shivaji Maharaj. His leadership, strategic brilliance, and dedication to his people embody courage, vision, and resilience. To make his stay truly special, we would curate a royal welcome with an exceptional salutation, followed by a history and heritage tour that celebrates his enduring impact. The experience would culminate in a royal feast, showcasing traditional flavours and culinary grandeur befitting his legacy.

If I had to choose one hotel I admire the most, it would be Fairmont Banff Springs in Canada. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, it is surrounded by pristine wilderness and snowcapped peaks, creating a truly magical setting. The experience is especially enchanting during winter when the landscape is blanketed in snow, offering an incredibly serene and breathtaking environment. The scenic train ride through the Rockies enhances the journey with stunning views of the rugged terrain. What truly sets this hotel apart, however, is its remarkable architecture and rich heritage, making it an iconic destination.

My guilty pleasure when staying at a hotel is forgetting I’m just a guest—I feel like part of the place itself. I hold the elevator for others, letting every guest exit before me, even if I have to hold the door manually. I don’t fuss over minor delays, knowing these things take time. But my true indulgence? A lavish hotel breakfast—an indulgence that feels rare on busy workdays.

After a long day of managing a hotel, I unwind by cooking and taking care of household chores. It’s almost like a form of mindfulness—focusing on simple tasks helps me disconnect from the stresses of the day. There’s something deeply fulfilling about preparing a meal or tidying up; it brings a sense of accomplishment and calm.

NEHA KAPOOR

GENERAL MANAGER, HYATT PLACE VADODARA

My journey into hospitality happened by chance. From afar, the industry always seemed intriguing, but it wasn’t a planned career choice. In 2004, when career options were limited, hospitality was booming. I applied, got in, and before I knew it, I was part of this world. Though I hadn’t envisioned this path initially, once I stepped into it, I found my rhythm and never looked back.

I’ve never viewed being a woman as an advantage or disadvantage in hospitality—this industry demands equal effort from everyone. However, women often bring a more empathetic perspective to leadership. We naturally focus on the finer details that enhance both the guest experience and workplace culture, which makes a lasting difference.

At IHM Kolkata, I was introduced to the discipline that comes with working in hotels—grooming standards, daily audits, and structured schedules. Our professors ensured we understood the industry’s expectations, and that discipline became a part of my life. But what truly fascinated me was the dynamic nature of hospitality—no two days are the same, and guests are always at the centre of everything. Creating memorable experiences kept me engaged. Plus, as Indians, we are raised with the philosophy of Atithi Devo Bhava—treating guests with warmth and care. My first professional experience as part of Grand Hyatt Mumbai’s preopening team cemented my love for this industry.

Every day in hospitality brings unexpected challenges—no two days are the same. One incident that stands out is managing a double booking of a banquet venue. In such moments, quick thinking is key—offering alternate dates, providing rate benefits, and ensuring the client feels valued despite the inconvenience. Crisis management is a crucial part of hospitality, and how these moments are handled defines the guest experience.

Guest-centric, people-driven, and strategic thinker. That’s my leadership style. I believe in open discussions rather than closed-door decisionmaking. Whether it is finance, F&B, or operations, every team member should feel involved in shaping outcomes. Of course, there are times when strong decisions must be made, but I prefer a leadership style that values team input.

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Women often bring a more empathetic perspective to leadership, focussing on the finer details that enhance the guest experience and workplace culture.”

If there’s one thing I’d change about the hospitality industry, it would be balancing guest satisfaction with the well-being of those working tirelessly behind the scenes. Having worked my way up—from a Front Office Associate to where I am today—I’ve seen it all. I may be biased, but I truly believe Hyatt does it best. Care is at the heart of everything we do, whether it’s for guests or our employees.

The perfect hotel experience is a seamless journey where every touchpoint is thoughtfully covered— from a warm welcome at security to a well-prepared room and intuitive service throughout the stay. Every interaction should feel effortless and genuine, making the guest’s experience both memorable and personal. From check-in to check-out, it’s all about creating moments of comfort, care, and connection, with smiles all along the way.

If Grand Mercure Mysore had to be represented by a movie, it would be Dil Chahta Hai. The film resonates with both our guests and our team. Just like in the movie, there’s a sense of connection, warmth, and a journey that people love coming back to—whether as a guest or an employee.

Hosting Maharani Chimnabai II of Baroda at the hotel would be a privilege. She was a progressive leader who championed women’s education and social reform—values I deeply resonate with. Since she knew the old Baroda, I’d take her on a journey through the modern city of Vadodara, often referred to as the "Lil’ Big City," showing her how it has evolved while also gaining insights into the heritage and traditions of her time. For her dining experience, we’d curate a special tasting menu blending traditional Gujarati cuisine with modern influences, reflecting Vadodara’s rich cultural fabric.

When it comes to hotels I admire, Grand Hyatt Bangkok and Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur stand out. These properties have seamlessly integrated local culture into every touchpoint across the hotel. When travelling to such destinations, guests seek immersion in the local culture, and these hotels have mastered the balance between luxury and authenticity.

My guilty pleasure when staying at a hotel? Food. The breakfast buffet. Waffles. Pure indulgence!

After a long day managing a hotel, unwinding means spending time with my family. At the end of the day, we all gather, share how our day went, and enjoy a warm, comforting meal together. It’s simple, but it’s what truly helps me unwind.

IRENE MARIA ALMEIDA

GENERAL MANAGER, GOLDEN TULIP VAGATOR (SAROVAR HOTELS)

Hospitality is more than just a career; it’s a passion for crafting unforgettable experiences and building meaningful connections. Growing up in a home where every milestone was celebrated with warmth and love, I learned the value of creating joyful moments. This drive to exceed expectations with extraordinary surprises continues to fuel my motivation.

The hospitality industry is an exhilarating journey where each day brings new discoveries and unique challenges. The thrill of navigating these everevolving situations is what makes this field so captivating.

From a young age, I envisioned a life of sophistication—spaces filled with comfort, warm lighting, and mood-setting music. This vision, combined with my passion for creating inviting environments, made me realise that hospitality was my true calling. I am confident that opportunities to leverage my perspective will arise soon.

A perfect hotel experience revolves around personalised service and meaningful interactions. Every guest should feel seen, valued, and understood, leaving a lasting positive impression of the property.

Transformational, authentic, and participative would be the words I would use to describe my leadership style.

If I could change one thing about the hospitality industry, it would be advocating for greater representation of women in top management. Women's unique insights and perspectives can significantly enhance strategies and drive innovation, leading to more balanced and effective decision-making.

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The hospitality industry is a dynamic journey of constant discovery, where the thrill of navigating ever-evolving challenges makes it truly captivating.”

If my hotel had to be represented by a movie, it would be Maid in Manhattan. The movie's essence of elegance, warmth, and transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary memories aligns perfectly with the hospitality experience we strive to create.

I would love to host the Late Queen Elizabeth for a delightful afternoon tea. The setting would be adorned with delicate bone china cups, serving the finest brews, creating an enchanting and regal experience fit for a queen.

The hotel I admire the most is Dolce by Wyndham Hanoi Golden Lake in Vietnam. Its unparalleled luxury, exceptional service, and attention to detail make it a remarkable example of world-class hospitality.

My guilty pleasure when staying at a hotel as a guest is showing appreciation to the hotel staff. A little kindness and gratitude go a long way in making the stay even more enjoyable.

At the end of the day, spending time with my boys rejuvenates me with energy and joy, making it the perfect way to unwind and recharge.

A LIFE SHAPED BY TRAVEL AND CINEMA

From film sets in Rajasthan to serene beaches in Thailand, Abhay Deol’s journeys are as diverse as his roles. Whether trekking in the Himalayas or embracing Goa’s ‘susegad’ lifestyle, travel fuels his creativity, offering both adventure and introspection.

AS TOLD TO DEEPALI NANDWANI

Ornate and historic, some of the theatres along the Broadway date back to the early 20th century.

Travel is an absolute passion of mine, a driving force in my life. Fortunately, my profession as an actor provides ample opportunities for exploration, with film shoots taking place both within India and internationally. Film festival appearances, such as my trips to Venice and Toronto, further fuel my wanderlust. In fact, a significant part of my motivation for pursuing acting stems from the inherent travel it entails.

My early travel memories are deeply intertwined with cinema. I recall our family's annual summer trips to Ooty, a cherished tradition for three consecutive years. Growing up in a film family, much of my childhood travel revolved around movie productions. I accompanied my uncle, Dharmendra, on his film shoots, which exposed me to the diverse landscapes of India, from rural villages to charming hill stations. It was through these experiences that my dual love for movies and travel blossomed. I also have vivid memories of Shimla and Srinagar. Srinagar, with its breathtaking Dal

THIS SPREAD, CLOCKWISE FROM EXTREME LEFT: Venice thrives on waterways, regulated by Adriatic tides; Dal Lake nestles amid the icy Zabarwan Range; Lohagarh Fort’s thick mudclay walls remain impenetrable; Jaisalmer’s sandstone architecture fuses Rajput and Mughal influences, adapted to the Thar Desert; Kutch’s vast white salt desert; Ooty’s tea gardens delight travellers.

I consider myself a luxury traveller, drawn to boutique hotels, good airlines, fine dining, and the thrill of discovering new food and music. Whether it's the beach or the mountains, I explore in style. Travel isn't just a pastime for me; it's a way of life, woven into my work and personal experiences.

Lake and surrounding beauty, stands out as one of the most stunning places I've ever encountered.

I enjoy trekking and immersing myself in nature. Despite living in urban environments like New York for a year, I yearn for outdoor adventures. A family trek to Lohagarh Fort in Lonavla allowed me to reconnect with nature's beauty and the joy of physical activity. However, my ultimate holiday indulgence is basking in the sun on a pristine beach, embracing the tranquillity of doing absolutely nothing.

One of my films, Road Movie resonated deeply with my own love for travel. The film, which follows a man driving a mobile cinema truck, is a journey of adventure and discovery. Shooting in Delhi, Rajasthan, and Kutch allowed me to explore remote areas, particularly around Jaisalmer. Even within Jaisalmer, I relished solo explorations, venturing out on foot to discover hidden corners and observe local life.

Food is an integral part of my travel experiences. I delight in trying new dishes, especially local specialties, and have a particular fondness for desserts. However, shopping is not a significant aspect of my travels.

My connection to Goa Goa has given me the lifestyle I always sought. My home in Assagao is my sanctuary, nestled in the wilderness, made almost entirely of glass so that I feel

connected to nature even when indoors. The concept was simple—I wanted no walls obstructing my view, no bugs, and a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience. The slower pace of life here suits me perfectly; I avoid chaos and noise, yet I remain productive. The balance between work and leisure in Goa is invaluable. When I’m not shooting, I return to this peaceful retreat rather than heading to a bustling city.

Embracing 'Susegad'

The Goan philosophy of ‘susegad’—a relaxed and content way of life—resonates deeply with me. The best way to explore Goa is by embracing susegad. Living here allows me to disconnect when I need to while still having a vibrant community within reach. My home reflects my personality—there are sound bowls for meditation, DJ equipment for when I’m in the mood to celebrate, and canvases leaning against the walls, waiting for inspiration to strike. Books and magazines are scattered around, a nod to my constant curiosity and love for storytelling.

My favourite destinations:

I like big cities: New York for the energy and, of course, Broadway; Los Angeles for the lifestyle and weather; Paris for the architecture; Thailand for its beaches and the blend of adventure and tranquility; and Barcelona for partying. As a country, I really enjoy visiting Spain. Los Angeles holds a unique appeal for me, primarily due to its vibrant entertainment industry and thriving music scene. The city's efficient infrastructure, particularly its well-developed roads and transportation systems, also contribute to its ease of navigation. However, I find the city's architectural aesthetic, characterised by a prevalence of 'boxy' structures in many areas, to be somewhat lacking. In contrast, Mumbai's allure lies in the deep connections

THIS SPREAD, CLOCKWISE FROM EXTREME LEFT: Los Angeles holds a unique appeal due to its vibrant entertainment industry; Barcelona is a fabulous party and nightlife destination; Abhay Deol’s glass house in Assagao, Goa is his serene sanctuary from chaos; Mizu, a Japanese-style izakaya is one of his favourite restaurants; Deol calls Japan his ‘soul destination.

I have with friends and family; unfortunately, the city's pervasive pollution is a significant drawback. Goa, on the other hand, has become my sanctuary, a place where I truly feel at home. While I adore Goa, I also recognise the importance of occasional travel to maintain a sense of novelty and rejuvenation.

But I also enjoy Himachal Pradesh for the rugged beauty and immersive local culture I like to frequently return to.

Travelling for film and art

Balancing commercial success with artistic integrity has been a conscious choice throughout my career. It has taken me to various destinations. If Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara took me to Spain, Dev.D helped me explore the inner workings of Mumbai. For Bun Tikki, we went to the mountains which were beautiful. Premiering at the Palm Springs International Film Festival, the film left a deep impact on audiences.

Beyond acting, I continue to explore other creative passions. I’ve recently completed an art course and find joy in painting, DJing, and curating experiences that blend storytelling, music, and visual art. My love for Japanese culture, which I often describe as having a ‘Japanese soul’, has also influenced my artistic sensibilities. I love travelling to Japan.

Food and dining preferences

Food plays a significant role in my travels. I enjoy experiencing diverse cuisines, with a particular fondness for Japanese and Italian food. Some of my

go-to dining spots include Mizu in Mumbai and One8 Commune in Hyderabad. While I appreciate fine dining, I also enjoy discovering local flavours and hidden gems. I am not adventurous when it comes to exotic food unless it is vegetarian, which wouldn’t be considered adventurous.

On my bucket list.

While I enjoy the tranquility of Goa, I’m also eager to travel—South America is high on my list, besides Machu Picchu in Peru, an Incan citadel set high in the Andes Mountain, Bali for its vibe and beaches, Argentina for the culture, and northern Cananda to see the aurora borealis.

For me, travel is more than movement—it’s a way to connect, reflect, and create. And no matter where I go, I always return to my sanctuary in Goa, where life moves at just the right pace.

A ROYAL REVIVAL IN BHOPAL

The resurrection of Bhopal’s Sadar Manzil as Atmosphere Core’s Indian debut in luxury hospitality is a restoration shaped by memory, material, and deep reverence for the past.

RUPALI SEBASTIAN

At the heart of Bhopal, standing as a silent witness to history, Sadar Manzil has long been an architectural jewel of the city. Originally built in 1898 as a royal durbar hall, this grand structure once hosted courtly gatherings, dignitaries, and cultural celebrations. Over the years, however, time took its toll. The once-imposing arches bore the weight of neglect, the intricately carved columns gathered dust, and the echoes of history faded into silence.

That silence was broken when RDB Group took on the monumental task of restoring and repurposing Sadar Manzil into a heritage hotel—a project that required an exquisite balance between preservation and intervention. Designed by Architectonic Services and operated by Atmosphere Core, Sadar Manzil Heritage by Atmosphere Bhopal marks the brand’s first venture into India—and it does so with a property that is as much a cultural revival as it is a luxury retreat.

Tasked with restoring and adapting Sadar Manzil into a luxury heritage hotel, architects Aditya Goswami and Runa Dasgupta Goswami of Architectonic Services knew that this wasn’t merely a design challenge—it was a test of historical sensitivity, technical precision, and architectural restraint. “This project was about unlearning,” they say. “You can’t approach a structure like Sadar Manzil with a modern architectural mindset. You have to listen to what the building wants. That’s what heritage is all about.”

A layout already aligned for luxury

Most heritage restoration projects face the challenge of adapting historical layouts to modern hospitality needs. But Sadar Manzil had a surprise in store—its original spatial programme was already aligned with the workings of a luxury hotel.

“The way royal palaces functioned—segregation of private and public areas, discreet service routes, grand central gathering spaces—is exactly how a premium hotel operates,” explains Runa.

“In that sense, the building was already prepared for this transformation.”

The upper floors, originally housing the royal family, were converted into guest rooms and

The lobby, adorned with paintings of the Begums, pays homage to Bhopal’s regal past.

suites, while the lower levels, once used for courtly functions, now accommodate common areas and restaurants. The grand entrance, located near the the Sadar Darwaza (part of the walled city), naturally lent itself to becoming the hotel reception, and the courtyard, once a space for royal gatherings, seamlessly transformed into an alfresco dining and event venue. “So, each part of the building has been utilised in the same spirit as it was originally intended,” states Runa.

Restoration as a delicate surgery

Reviving a 127-year-old building naturally did not involve designing from scratch. Instead, every addition and intervention undertaken during the two-year restoration process had to be minimal, strategic, and invisible. “We weren’t just architects—we became surgeons,” says Aditya. “You can’t treat a structure like this with broad strokes. You have to work microscopically, ensuring that every repair is done with the lightest touch.”

PREVIOUS SPREAD: Diwan-i-Khas, the restaurant which occupies the erstwhile durbar hall, celebrates craftsmanship of the spatial and culinary varieties.

LEFT: Built by Shah Jahan Begum, an ardent patron of architecture, Sadar Manzil reflects the authentic Bhopali Mughal style, blending oriental and occidental influences.

BELOW: The central courtyard remains a venue for gatherings and events, continuing its legacy as the heart of the palace.

Rather than carving out new spaces for modern mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems (MEP), the team worked surgically— “zipping through” walls with precision, creating slots and sleeves instead of disruptive shafts and ducts to integrate modern comforts without taking away from the heritage. The only element that is apparent to the eye is the elevator. “But even this,” says Runa, “was designed in steel and glass to blend seamlessly and minimise visual disruption.”

Material memory

The success of any restoration lies in staying true to its materiality. At Sadar Manzil, this meant rejecting modern materials in favour of traditional construction techniques. Cement was out; limewash was in. Lime plaster, a staple in historic buildings, was reintroduced to let the walls breathe, ensuring that the restoration preserved not just the façade, but also the palace’s natural ability to regulate temperature and humidity.

'Modern' materials like glass and steel were used sparingly and purposefully—glass for visual continuity and steel for minimal structural intrusion, ensuring that every intervention remained as unobtrusive as possible.

A technology-driven resurrection

One of the biggest challenges was dealing with lost architectural

details—carvings that had worn away, frescoes that had faded, and structural elements that had crumbled. Here, technology played a crucial role. The team used Augmented Reality (AR) to reconstruct gaps, creating digital projections of what elements would have originally looked like using partial details.

“In India, heritage buildings often have details that get plastered over or eroded with time,” explains Aditya. “With AR, we could visualise what was once there and restore it with accuracy. Also, these buildings had several diverse influences spatially. These reconstructed details were then meticulously crafted by artisans, ensuring that every element remained faithful to the building’s original architectural language.

FROM LEFT: Chesterfield sofas in neutral tones settle beneath arched ceilings and carved columns, offering a refined setting for the bar; Diwan-i-Khas, where frescoed friezes, multifoil arches, carved columns, and intricate wall details immerse guests in an atmosphere steeped in history; the entrance to the restaurant.

REVIVING SADAR MANZIL FOR A NEW ERA

For Akshat Jain, CEO, RDB Bhopal Hospitality, the revival of Sadar Manzil was more than just a business venture—it was an opportunity to bring a historic landmark back to life.

"Bhopal, with its rich Mughal heritage and incredible connectivity, has always fascinated us," says Jain. "When the Government of Madhya Pradesh launched a leasing initiative for heritage restoration through Smart City, we knew this was the perfect opportunity. Sadar Manzil was a jewel waiting to be polished.”

For its management, the team sought a global name with a deep understanding of heritage hospitality. Atmosphere Core, known for its exceptional resorts in the Maldives, was a natural choice. "Atmosphere Core’s expertise in women-staffed, couples-only resorts made them the ideal fit for India’s first couples-only heritage hotel. Partnering with them under the ‘Heritage By Atmosphere’ sub-brand was a seamless decision,” says Jain.

Akshat Jain

CEO, RDB BHOPAL HOSPITALITY

“ Bhopal, with its rich Mughal heritage and incredible connectivity, has always fascinated us. Sadar Manzil was a jewel waiting to be polished."

Mohallawalas: the real historians

For all the technology, research, and architectural expertise that went into the restoration, some of the most valuable insights came not from books, but from the people of Bhopal. “The mohalla historians, the neighbourhood elders, and local artisans knew more about this building than any document ever could,” says Aditya.

Walking through the site, speaking to people whose families had lived near Sadar Manzil for generations, the team uncovered forgotten stories, details about lost elements, and narratives that helped shape the restoration process. “If you just listen to the sound of the neighbourhood, heritage reveals itself,” he says. “Buildings don’t exist in isolation. They belong to the people.”

RIGHT: The upper gallery now enjoys subtle protection from an unobtrusive glass canopy, ensuring comfort without disrupting its historic integrity.

BELOW: The grand podium that seated royalty has been reimagined as a serene pool area, blending heritage with relaxation. In one corner, a sleek glass tower houses the elevator, standing as the only distinctly modern intervention within the historic setting.

Runa Dasgupta Goswami

PRINCIPAL & CO FOUNDER, ARCHITECTONIC SERVICES

“

The way royal palaces functioned is exactly how a premium hotel operates. So, each part of the building has been utilised in the same spirit as it was originally intended."

HONOURING HISTORY THROUGH HOSPITALITY

One of the most unique aspects of Sadar Manzil Heritage by Atmosphere Bhopal is its all-women guest-facing team—a nod to the city's remarkable history of female leadership.

Between 1844 and 1926, Bhopal was ruled by four

Aditya Goswami

PRINCIPAL & CO FOUNDER, ARCHITECTONIC SERVICES

“

If

you just listen to the sound of the neighbourhood, heritage reveals itself."

successive Begums, making it one of the few princely states governed by women for nearly a century. The decision to have a women-led front-of-house team is a continuation of that legacy.

Beyond symbolism, this

approach also reflects a shift in luxury hospitality, where a deeply personal, refined, and warm service model is prioritised over rigid formality. Guests are welcomed into Sadar Manzil with a level of care and grace that mirrors the hospitality of Bhopal’s royal courts.

A PALACE REIMAGINED FOR TODAY

For Souvagya Mohapatra, MD (India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka) at Atmosphere Core, Sadar Manzil Heritage by Atmosphere Bhopal is more than just a hotel—it is a timeless tribute to Bhopal’s regal past.

“Bhopal is a breathtaking city, celebrated for its lakes and rich heritage,” says Mohapatra. “We are proud to manage this iconic 127-yearold property, which has been meticulously restored by RDB Group and now infused with a world-class touch under our ‘Heritage by Atmosphere’ sub-brand.”

The property’s exclusivity sets it apart—just 22 luxurious rooms and suites, designed for couples seeking an immersive heritage experience. “From the moment our guests arrive, they are treated like royalty, with warm welcomes, enchanting evening entertainment, and personalized touches that create an unforgettable stay,” Mohapatra explains.

A bold move in the hospitality landscape, Sadar Manzil is India’s first couples-only, vegetarian heritage hotel. The decision, Mohapatra notes, was strategic: “Today’s discerning travellers are seeking unique, culturally rich experiences. Our chefs have crafted a global vegetarian menu, blending innovation with heritage, ensuring that dining here is a true culinary indulgence.”

Souvagya Mohapatra

MD (INDIA, NEPAL, BHUTAN, SRI LANKA), ATMOSPHERE CORE

“Today’s discerning travellers are seeking unique, culturally rich experiences. Our chefs have crafted a global vegetarian menu, blending innovation with heritage, ensuring that dining here is a true culinary indulgence."

The art of controlling darkness

Lighting is not just about illumination—it is about storytelling. In historic structures, where textures, reliefs, and intricate details define the architecture, light plays a crucial role in revealing their character. The right lighting enhances depth, form, and materiality, bringing spaces to life while preserving their timeless aura.

At Sadar Manzil, lighting was designed to celebrate the shadows rather than erase them. Strategic placement of lights ensured that architectural details were highlighted rather than washed out, allowing the play of light and shadow to accentuate the historic materials. The effect is most striking at twilight, when the soft glow enhances the architectural depth without overpowering its

charm. “I always envisioned this project in twilight,” Aditya adds, “where the contours of history become visible in the way light touches them.”

An intrinsically green building

“What is more sustainable than has already stood a building that for over 100 years? And now, with adaptive reuse, it continues to thrive,” reflects Runa. As a luxury hospitality space, modern comforts like active cooling were essential.

However, these additions do not diminish the fact that Sadar Manzil was inherently sustainable long before sustainability became a buzzword. Its courtyards and material choices naturally regulate temperature, creating a passive cooling system that has functioned for over a century. “Sustainability isn’t about adding new tech,” says Aditya. “It’s about recognising the intelligence of the past and ensuring that it continues to function.”

Sadar Manzil Heritage by Atmosphere Bhopal is not just a restored audience hall of the nawabs—it is a story of preservation, of architectural humility, and of a city reclaiming its history. “For us, the most rewarding part was seeing how the neighbourhood changed,” say the architects. “When a neglected structure is reborn, it doesn’t just change the skyline— it changes the way people feel about their heritage. That’s the true power of restoration. It creates pride.”

THIS PAGE: Period-style furniture infuses the rooms with timeless grace, offering an ambiance that echoes the elegance of a bygone era.

A CONTEMPORARY RETREAT ROOTED IN MEMORY

Taj Taal Kutir redefines luxury in Kolkata, blending nostalgia with modernity through architecture, craft, and a seamless connection to its waterfront setting.

RUPALI SEBASTIAN

THIS

OPPOSITE: With its thoughtfully designed landscape, the entry to Taj Taal Kutir is like a green embrace.

PAGE: The narrowness of the reception block is 'erased' by the soaring vaulted ceiling. The reception itself is encased in terracotta with patterns reminiscent of the state's well-known Jamdani weave.

ABOVE:

Set on the edge of Eco Park Lake in New Town , Kolkata, Taj Taal Kutir unfolds as a sanctuary amidst the city’s fast-growing urban landscape. Part of the larger 480-acre Eco Park, the hotel enjoys an unparalleled waterfront setting, offering guests a sense of retreat while remaining firmly embedded within the city’s evolving business and cultural district.

Unlike a typical standalone hotel, the 75-key Taj Taal Kutir is a two-block campus, comprising the convention block and the guest block, both designed by Salient Design Studio to function as distinct yet complementary entities. While the convention block, completed first, is designed as a formal, enclosed space suited for events and gatherings, the guest block takes an entirely different approach, prioritising openness, seamless indoor-outdoor connections, and a deep engagement with nature. This feature focuses on the guest block, where architecture and landscape work in harmony to craft an immersive hospitality experience.

For Harshvardhan Neotia, Chairman of Ambuja Neotia, the guest block was conceived as an urban sanctuary, distinct from typical business hotels. "The city of Kolkata has a rich cultural heritage, and its colonialera clubs and gymkhanas were once the hub of social gatherings." Building on this thought, the vision was to create a resort-like retreat that would be deeply connected to its waterfront setting. "The idea was to create a hotel that would revere an expansive lake," he explains.

LEFT FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: The hotel celebrates indoor-outdoor living; the cascase feature of the pool court that adds a pleasing white noise to the ambience; palms, MS brise soleils and louvered windows combat the region's hot sun.

Taj Taal Kutir's scenic waterside location.

Architecture: looking forward, looking back

For the guest block, the approach was clear: comfort, sustainability, and an intuitive connection to the outdoors.

"The convention side is a closed courtyard design, but the guest room block is an open court," says Vivek Rathore, Principal Architect, Salient Design Studio. "The idea was to invite guests outdoors, into semi-open and open spaces—something you rarely experience in city hotels, where you’re in a boxy, air-conditioned environment."

The architecture fosters a seamless relationship between indoors and outdoors, maximising views of the lake, natural ventilation, and daylight harvesting. "In the guest block, almost 70% of the spaces have daylight harvesting," says Rathore. The fenestration has been carefully crafted to provide shade, reduce glare, and optimise thermal comfort. "Kharkhari (louvered) windows allow wind to come in while shading from the sun. This is a distinct feature of the zamindar bari," he explains.

The pitched terracotta-tiled roof, another vernacular design element, plays an important role in passive cooling. "From the source, you reduce absorption of heat," Rathore explains. "The terracotta tiles do not allow excessive heat to be absorbed, making the spaces more comfortable."

At the heart of the guest block is a court with a swimming pool, a modern reimagination of the uthan (courtyard) of Bengal’s zamindar homes. "The zamindar bari courtyards used to create a microclimate,

A LANDSCAPE WOVEN IN WATER AND LIGHT

At Taj Taal Kutir, the landscape is more than just a setting—it is a journey, a quiet unfolding of space, light, and nature. Designed by Anuradha Rathore of Salient Design Studio, the landscape merges seamlessly with Eco Park Lake, transforming the site into an immersive waterfront retreat, where terraces spill into promenades and private decks brush the water’s edge.

Inspired by Bengal’s timeless connection to water, the design echoes the rhythms of the land. Tall coconut palms stand as silent sentinels, their reflections dancing on the rippling lake. The deep green swimming pool, mirroring the Kolkata sky, blurs into the water beyond, creating a layered canvas of reflections—of clouds, trees, and the shifting light.

Here, movement is choreographed to heighten awareness of the landscape. Winding pathways weave through fragrant groves of Michelia Champaca, Bauhinia, and Bakul, leading guests from sun-dappled courtyards to intimate, shaded verandahs. Private decks extend into shallow water features, inviting quiet moments of stillness. The drop-off ramps curve through undulating greenscapes, creating a sense of anticipation as guests arrive.

This is a place where the landscape is not just seen but felt—a sanctuary where water, earth, and memory entwine, inviting guests to slow down, pause, and simply be.

Unlike the closed courtyard planning of the adjacent convention block, the guest block has an open courtyard so that guests can enjoy views of the lake.

Vivek Rathore

PRINCIPAL ARCHITECT, SALIENT DESIGN STUDIO

“

The idea was to invite guests outdoors, into semi-open and open spaces—something you rarely experience in city hotels, where you’re in a boxy, air-conditioned environment."

which diffused into the rooms," says Rathore. Here, the cooling effect of the lake is complemented by the shaded courtyard, the swimming pool, and the continuous shimmering waterfall along the deck. "There’s a nice microclimate being created by the lake and also by the pool," Rathore adds. "Palms around the courtyard cast a shadow, stopping direct sun, while the waterfall creates white noise that enhances the overall ambience."

Privacy is subtly woven into the guest block’s spatial planning. The ground floor sits five and a half to six feet above the pool level, ensuring that rooms aren’t directly exposed to public spaces. The rooms are layered in two rings—the inner ring overlooks the courtyard, while the outer ring faces landscaped views. "Towards the east, rooms overlook the Japanese garden, which we designed in 2015. On the convention side, the rooms look into private landscaped courts," says Rathore.

While Salient Design Studio led the architectural planning, Studio Lotus, as the interior architects, contributed key refinements to the elevation treatment and select façade elements. Their interventions included the addition of Juliet balconies for a standing experience in guest rooms, the integration of brise soleils to enhance shading, and the detailed articulation of columns and mouldings. They also introduced the greenish hue of the swimming pool, ensuring it blended seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. These thoughtful enhancements reinforced the hotel’s timeless yet contemporary aesthetic, creating a façade that feels both elegant and contextually rooted.

Water becomes central to the spatial experience, whether through the swimming pool, reflective water bodies, or the lake beyond.

Interiors: a contemporary expression of nostalgia

For interiors too, interestingly, the facade is where it all began. "It really set the tone for the restraint of the palette, the importance of form and proportion, the importance of connections between the indoor and the outdoor," reveals Asha Sairam, Principal, Studio Lotus.

In a culture known for its vibrancy, the design firm’s proposed direction—a crisp black and white—was bold and unexpected. The monochrome palette is punctuated by just one other colour—terracotta—used sparingly yet meaningfully to anchor the interiors in Bengal’s craft traditions. Collectively, they set the stage for a design narrative that was at once familiar and contemporary. "Making a

black-and-white hotel in a city like Kolkata, in a country like India, is quite a sharp thing to do," says Sairam. "Very few owners and operators would be willing to take that risk. But Mr Neotia was happy to lead into it."

The idea of nostalgia occupied the core of the design direction. "We wanted the building to give a nod to a certain period in history," says the designer, "but we never wanted it to feel like a historical space. It is very much a modern hotel, designed for the modern traveller." The team carefully threaded memory into the fabric of the hotel—not through literal period references, but through craft, materiality, and proportion. "It's that fine line of reinterpreting and the notion of what would be nostalgic in the new avataar that we were playing with through the entire design process."

Nowhere is this reinterpretation more evident than in the reception, with its terracotta-clad expanse ornamented with patterns inspired by Bengal’s Jamdani weave. "Terracotta is deeply embedded in West Bengal’s craft traditions," says Sairam. "We wanted it as part of our architectural palette, tying it in with the terracotta khapra roof tiles."

The terrazzo flooring, another layer of nostalgia, was reimagined for practicality. "We got Kalinga to customise the scale of the aggregate and pre-engineer large-format terrazzo slabs," says Sairam. These came to the site ready to be cut like stone, laid efficiently, and polished seamlessly, ensuring the longevity and patina of terrazzo without the practical difficulties of traditional craftsmanship.

ABOVE LEFT: The Lakeside Lounge bears a distinct art deco influence, seen in the articulation of the wall panelleing and the furniture forms.

ABOVE RIGHT: A close-up of the seating in the rooms shows how traditional art (Ganjifa playing card-inspired table-top) and craft (Kantha-embroidered cushions) have been woven into the narrative.

An Island of Luxurious Darkness

Lighting at Taj Taal Kutir is not just functional—it is experiential. Designed by Lucent Worldwide, the lighting scheme was crafted to enhance guest comfort, align with the property’s old-world charm, and create an intimate yet inviting atmosphere.

"The first thing we prioritised was visual comfort," says Sarvdeep Basur, Principal at Lucent Worldwide. "It’s a high-end property—very personalised, very specialised—so we knew the lighting had to feel effortless, warm, and immersive."

The façade and landscape lighting were designed to blend seamlessly with the architecture, evoking a sense of timeless luxury. But in the courtyard, where the swimming pool

sits, the approach was different. "We’ve actually mimicked fire all around the courtyard to give it a little extra cosiness," says Basur. "At night, it looks like there’s fire in water."

The effect, created with ultra-warm lighting for the bubblers—almost to a candlelight level, transforms the space into a mesmerising focal point, visible from the guest rooms, restaurant, bar, and all-day dining.

Being located by a taal (lake), the property contrasts with its surroundings. "On the other side, things are brightly lit and colourful," says Basur. "We took it as an opportunity to downplay the lighting. We set out to create an island of luxurious darkness." The lighting is subtle, warm, and inviting, never overpowering.

Inside the guest rooms, the lighting approach prioritises simplicity and user control. Rather than complex automation, the rooms feature basic dimmers and switches, allowing guests to adjust brightness to their preference. "We hardly have any controls in the rooms," says Basur. "People can dim the light, add to the intensity they want, or brighten it. Every guest sets it to their taste because it is very friendly."

All decorative lighting was bespoke, designed to complement the architecture’s colonial elegance. "We wanted that old-world charm with light as well," says Basur. And at Taj Taal Kutir, that vision comes to life beautifully.

Asha Sairam

PRINCIPAL, STUDIO LOTUS

“ It's that fine line of reinterpreting and the notion of what would be nostalgic in the new avataar that we were playing with through the entire design process."

The architectural formalisation recalls zamindar baris with their pitched roofs clad in khapra (clay) tiles.

DESIGNING FOR THE YOUNGER DEMOGRAPHIC

"The younger travellers were a thought in our mind when we were designing this hotel," says Asha Sairam, Principal, Studio Lotus. "Most of our team members are millennials transitioning into Gen Z. It was interesting—especially when it came to the façade and the poolside."

With a tight footprint and an open courtyard layout, there was an early concern about sightlines—guests on their balconies could see others by the pool, or even catch glimpses into rooms across the courtyard if the curtains were left open. But conversations with the younger members of the Studio Lotus team led to a shift in perspective.

"We started realising that there is much more excitement and openness in younger travellers today about finding a sense of community," says Sairam. "It wasn’t jarring to them that someone staying in the adjacent room or by the poolside might be able to see them. If anything, it became an opportunity to say hi, to meet people, to have a conversation in a really quiet space."

This insight shaped the final approach—landscape and water features were introduced as subtle buffers for sound and distance, but strong visual barriers were intentionally left out. Instead of enforcing separation, the design allows guests to find solitude when they need it, while still feeling part of a shared, social experience.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Guest rooms enjoy openness and views; the private dining room of the all-day dining has a custom wallpaper with Sunderbans foliage; the entry to the Lakeside Lounge exemplifies the hotel's crisp black, white and terracotta scheme.

FACT FILE

ARCHITECTURE

SALIENT DESIGN STUDIO

INTERIORS

STUDIO LOTUS

STRUCTURAL

CONSULTANT

MNC CONSULTANT

LIGHTING LUCENT WORLDWIDE

HVAC

PANKAJ DHARKAR & ASSOCIATES

PHE

KROMATICS MEP CONSULTANT

ELECTRICAL CONSULTANT

SAENT INDIA

ENGINEERING CONSULTANT

LANDSCAPE

SALIENT DESIGN STUDIO

Throughout the interiors, Studio Lotus wove nostalgia into everyday interactions. Tabletops in the standard rooms are screen-printed with patterns inspired by Ganjifa playing cards, their graphic borders reinterpreted for a contemporary setting. In the Executive Suites, headboards feature Kantha embroidery, seamlessly blending craft and comfort. "We wanted to recall elements people would find familiar, but reinterpret them in a way that felt entirely modern," says Sairam.

Bringing all of these influences together required extensive exploration and refinement. "It was a lot of trial and error," says Sairam. "Whether it was making the standard rooms feel intimate yet luxurious, or using vaults to exaggerate the height of the narrow reception area and create a sense of arrival—every decision was tested, reworked, and finetuned to balance proportion and atmosphere."

Beyond aesthetics, natural ventilation was a key consideration. Every guest room has operable glazing, allowing fresh air to flow through. "While Kolkata has high humidity, there are months when the weather is beautiful—especially in the evenings," says Sairam. "We wanted guests to have the choice to switch off the AC, open the glazing, and enjoy fresh air." Ceiling fans were installed in all rooms and balconies, ensuring that even semi-outdoor spaces remain comfortable.

The fenestration, designed by Salient Design Studio, added another layer of complexity. With windows framed in a classical rhythm, furniture placement became an exercise in restraint and balance. "There were so many windows, you couldn’t just place furniture against a wall," says Sairam. Instead, the team internalised seating arrangements, creating clusters for dining, lounging, and quiet retreat. The brise soleils, another key architectural element, shaded the interiors while allowing soft light to filter through.

For Studio Lotus, Taj Taal Kutir was an opportunity to create not just a hotel, but an interpretation of Kolkata itself. "Good design has always been alive in Kolkata—in its cafés, boutique stores, and independent creative spaces," says Sairam. "To craft a hospitality space that carries that spirit forward, with a visionary client who understood the importance of restraint and refinement, was an incredibly exciting challenge for us."

Taj Taal Kutir’s guest block doesn’t lean on nostalgia in the obvious way. There are no over-the-top references, no forced gestures. Instead, it achieves something harder to pin down—a sense of familiarity, a quiet indulgence, a feeling of having stepped into a place that has always existed, even if you’re experiencing it for the first time.

The cottages at The Lodge at Wah, Palampur, are made of local materials and worked on by skilled craftsmen from the region. They are part of the Wah Tea Estate, one of the largest manufacturers of tea in the Kangra region.

From tranquil estates to immersive experiences, India’s tea tourism invites travellers to sip, savour, and stay in the heart of tea country. Explore the heritage, hospitality, and sustainability that brew the perfect blend of culture and luxury.

INDIA’S TEA TOURISM CHARM

RUPALI SEBASTIAN

Chai. Cha. Chaya. Chaha. Tea.

It’s more than just a beverage; it’s a cornerstone of Indian life. The day’s first sip, a healing concoction when infused with herbs and spices, a remedy for wearied souls, and the unassuming catalyst of countless conversations and connections. Tea in India transcends its cup—it’s a cultural emblem, thriving everywhere from humble roadside stalls to opulent five-star hotels.

This love affair traces back to the British, who cultivated tea on an industrial scale to shatter China’s monopoly. Today, India stands as one of the world’s largest tea producers, boasting celebrated varieties like Darjeeling, Assam, Nilgiri, and Kangra. But tea’s story doesn’t end in the cup— it extends to the heart of its origins: the tea estates, nestled in picturesque landscapes—from the misty hills of Darjeeling to the rolling plains of Assam; from the lush Nilgiris to the serene Kangra Valley.

In the landscape of India’s cultural and natural diversity, these estates are an understated gem. Steeped in history and bathed in tranquillity, they offer more than just a beverage; they encapsulate heritage, landscapes, and hospitality—rolled into an immersive experience called tea tourism, which invites guests to engage with tea not just as a drink but as an entire lifestyle. The trend aligns beautifully with the mindset of the modern traveller who seeks deeper connections with destinations, authentic cultural experiences, and meaningful engagement.

An immersive experience

A genuinely enriching tea tourism experience transcends the perfunctory factory tours, unfolding instead within the curated charm of boutique stays within or near tea estates, where every detail reflects the essence of tea culture and its intimate connection to the land. These are intimate spaces, often with less than 10 rooms, offering personalised attention.

Take Glenburn Tea Estate in Darjeeling, for instance. Spread across 1,600 acres, the estate cradles 1,000 acres of private forests, two rivers, and uninterrupted vistas of the majestic Mount Kangchenjunga. Its two meticulously restored colonial bungalows—the Burra Bungalow and the Water Lily Bungalow—house just eight suites, each exuding old-world charm. Over in Kangra, The Lodge at Wah, Palampur, unfurls its six eco-friendly rooms amidst 530 acres of tea gardens, offering a retreat infused with the serenity of the Himalayan foothills.

Further south, Sinna Dorai’s Bungalows take guests on a journey through southern India’s tea belt. Set within sprawling estates like Kadamane, which spans an awe-inspiring 7,000 acres (with only 1,000 acres under cultivation), these bungalows—at three locations, Valparai and Kadamane (both offering six rooms) and Mango Range (three rooms)—are an ode to the quiet luxury of plantation life. In Assam, the Wild Mahseer property nestles within the 1,000acre Addabarie Tea Estate. Its 22-acre homestead comprises five independent heritage bungalows with a total of 16 rooms.

ABOVE: The certified heritage building of the Burra Bungalow, Wild Mahseer.

BELOW: Tea service at Glenburn, with a tea cosy featuring the 'two leaves and a bud' tea motif.

The Postcard’s latest addition to its portfolio is also located in Assam. Set amidst 1,400 acres of the Durrung Tea Estate (one of Assam’s oldest estates), the boutique hotel features a restored 1960s high-ceilinged, deep-verandahed plantation bungalow and ‘luxury chalets’ set lightly in the sprawl of the plantation itself. Calling it an ode to Assam, Kapil Chopra, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, The Postcard Hotel, says, “This destination offers a rare chance to immerse yourself in the wonders of India’s northeast and, of course, indulge in one of the world’s finest teas.”

Bespoke

hospitality: where tea meets design, cuisine, and warmth

Tea tourism isn’t solely defined by boutique stays. Anandini Himalaya Tea redefines the concept by crafting stay-free experiences that celebrate the rich diversity of Himalayan teas through bespoke activities. “At Anandini Himalaya Tea, we offer curated tea tasting sessions, pairing workshops, and therapeutic tea walks that allow visitors to deeply connect with tea culture,” shares C o-founder Anamika Singh. Guests can also explore tea gardens and witness the intricacies of tea processing during factory tours. Singh adds, “These experiences not only showcase the nuances of our teas but also the rich heritage of Himalayan tea production.”

Tea tourism finds its most exquisite expression in the bespoke hospitality offered by India’s tea estates. These are not just stays— they are finely curated experiences where tea becomes a way of life, infused into every detail, from the cuisine to the décor to the deeply personal touches that make guests feel at home.

At Glenburn, owner and founder Husna-Tara Prakash’s vision seamlessly integrates tea into every facet of the experience. Guests are welcomed with tea-infused pakoras and tea-smoked chicken on the menu, while the 'two leaves and one bud' motif adorns the bed linen, reminding one of the estate’s very essence. The immersive tea

The sweeping main verandah of the Burra Bungalow, Glenburn Tea Easte, set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas.

tours guide guests through Glenburn’s sprawling plantation and factory, culminating in tastings of Darjeeling’s iconic first flush, second flush, and autumn crescendo teas.

“We offer an experience in a colonial bungalow where you can live the grand life of a tea planter, but also get involved and up close to the local community who are the heart and soul of what we do,” Husna-Tara shares. She notes that neither she nor her team has traditional hospitality backgrounds, yet they’ve created an extraordinary narrative by imagining what they would love as guests themselves. “When you exit the baggage hall, there's a Glenburn driver with a glass of nimbupaani, a cool towel, our own cars… Then, a four-hour drive up to the estate. Transport is available whenever you need it—to Darjeeling town or Kalimpong. Plus, you can explore the 1,600 acres within Glenburn.”

This attention to detail extends to staffing, ensuring unparalleled personal service. With a maximum capacity of 16 guests, an extensive team ensures every need is met. “I don't think people have realised the depth of the operations that we offer on a tea estate to give people that experience,” HusnaTara remarks in an online discussion.

Shoba Anand, founder of RARE—a collection of boutique, concept hotels with a sharp focus on ‘conscious travel’, including Glenburn, The Lodge at Wah, and Wild Mahseer—applauds Glenburn’s tea-centric approach. “Husna was one of the few who really took accommodation experience to that level where she could command that price, and people are paying,” she says, noting that even Indian travellers, once hesitant about the cost, have, postpandemic, begun flocking to Glenburn, drawn by its unparalleled offerings.

Down in Kangra, The Lodge at Wah offers a deeply personal experience. Owners Surya and Upasana Prakash treat their guests as personal house visitors, with one of the family members always present to ensure warmth and attentiveness. The estate not only showcases Kangra’s famed orthodox teas but also innovates with tea seed oil, a versatile product with culinary and cosmetic applications. “We’ve had guests who discover the intricacies of tea and leave saying, 'We’ll never look at a cup of tea the same way again',” shares Upasana.

At The Postcard Durrung Tea Estate, visitors can embark on a guided journey that explores tea’s transformation from leaf to cup. The experience includes a scenic walk through the estate, where guests learn about the

HUSNA-TARA PRAKASH OWNER AND FOUNDER, GLENBURN TEA ESTATE

“I don't think people have realised the depth of the operations that we offer on a tea estate to give people that experience.”

TOP TO BOTTOM: Different expressions of immersive luxury. Guest rooms at The Lodge at Wah; The Postcard Durrung Tea Estate; and Glenburn Tea Estate.

TEA TOURISM IN NUMBERS

The global agro-tourism market was valued at over $5 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 16.2% from 2022 to 2030. Tea tourism forms a significant sub-sector within this growing market.

India is the second-largest tea producer globally, contributing around 23% of the world's tea production. This positions India as a key destination for tea tourism.

The Indian tea tourism market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12-15% over the next five years, fueled by increased interest in rural tourism, cultural experiences, and premium offerings.

Darjeeling’s tea gardens attract over 50,000 domestic and international tourists annually, drawn by the unique experience of visiting heritage estates producing the worldrenowned Darjeeling tea.

Tea tourism adds substantial value to the tea industry. Tea estate homestays and luxury resorts charge a premium, with average spending per tea tourist ranging from $300 to $1,500 per trip depending on the destination and accommodation type.

Recent data indicates a surge in interest for tea tourism in regions like Ooty, Palampur, and Chikmagalur. In the first quarter of 2024, Ooty experienced a 46% increase in searches compared to the same period in 2023, followed by Palampur at 44%, and Chikmagalur at 35%.

Luxury tea estates in India, such as Makaibari (Darjeeling) and Wild Mahseer (Assam), generate significant revenue through boutique stays, charging between ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 per night for premium experiences.

Home to the world's largest concentration of tea plantations, Assam boasts over 800 major estates and 60,000 small estates spread across 300,000 hectares. Assam tea estates have seen a growth in eco-tourism, hosting 30,000+ visitors annually across their plantation stays and festivals.

The average tourist spends ₹20,000 to ₹40,000 per trip in Darjeeling on these experiences. All data from Expert Market Research and Statista

history and art of tea cultivation while trying their hand at plucking the finest buds under the guidance of an expert. A visit to the estate's factory reveals the intricate process of transforming these leaves into a flavourful brew, culminating in a private tasting of The Postcard’s signature tea, ‘Merchant of the East’.

Beyond tea: connecting with the land and community

Tea estates are not merely about the brew; they are gateways to unique experiences. Guests can embark on nature trails, birdwatching excursions, slow cycling tours through the plantations, or engagement with nearby villages centred around their life, or, in some cases, their artisanal offerings.

At The Postcard Durrung Tea Estate, aside from jungle safaris and other adventurous experiences, guests can take a 45-minute drive to an “off-the-grid” village where over 500 women create handloom products high on quality and craftsmanship, using the region’s native Eri and Muga silk. To deepen the cultural immersion, guests can revel in the vibrant rhythm of the Bihu dance, accompanied by the resonant beats of the double-headed dhol, the melodic horn-pipes, and the soulful flute.

The gastronomic creations at Glenburn include a variety of European dishes that make full use of the Italian herbs and salad leaves grown in the boutique hotel's well-stocked kitchen garden.

At Sinna Dorai’s Bungalows, the lush Western Ghats unfold in a breathtaking tapestry where tea fields and forests intertwine seamlessly. Guests can wander these biodiverse landscapes, where every turn reveals patches of untouched wilderness or stretches of manicured tea gardens. The estates’ commitment to conservation is evident in collaborations with NGOs to restore biodiversity and foster ecological research.

Wild Mahseer in Assam elevates the connection to nature with its Eastern Himalayan Botanic Ark, a 22-acre wonderland boasting over 300 species of trees and plants, many of them rare and endangered. Guided by expert naturalists, guests can delve into the stories of the flora, learn their medicinal and ecological significance, or marvel at the kaleidoscope of life—92 bird species and 72 butterfly varieties—flitting through this living sanctuary. Activities such as jungle bathing and tree-hugging offer a profound sense of immersion, while treks and cycling tours meander through tea gardens, riversides, and villages, blending adventure with cultural storytelling.

Glenburn Tea Estate crafts equally enchanting encounters, inviting guests to venture beyond its eight picturesque villages to explore the

A table laid out for a tea tasting experience at The Lodge at Wah.

SURYA JAI

PRAKASH

OWNER, THE LODGE AT WAH

“Tea tourism a lowhanging fruit that adds a supplemental income, saves jobs, and makes the tea garden the hero.”

heritage and landscapes of the surrounding Himalayan communities. From hikes through bamboo forests and waterfalls to discovering hidden shrines and Lepcha villages, every path is steeped in history and natural beauty. Rustic river camps and the luxurious comfort of the estate’s bungalows form the perfect bookends to these unforgettable journeys. Meanwhile, at The Lodge at Wah in Kangra, yoga sessions unfold amidst pristine tea gardens.

Brewing a sustainable future

Tea tourism in India is undergoing a significant transformation, blending the country’s time-honoured tea traditions with a renewed commitment to sustainability. Estates across the nation are adopting organic practices, implementing water conservation measures, and prioritising the preservation of local biodiversity. This shift isn’t just about eco-friendly farming; it extends to how these estates conduct tourism, creating experiences that resonate with environmentally conscious travellers.

"Tea tourism in India has evolved beyond just offering serene experiences—it's increasingly embracing sustainability as a core principle," says Singh. “Many tea gardens, including ours in Dharamshala, are incorporating sustainable practices not just in tea production but also in how we conduct tourism activities. This includes organic farming practices to minimising waste during tea tastings and workshops. What's particularly encouraging is that visitors themselves are now asking questions about sustainability—they want to know about our farming practices, how we process our teas, and the impact on local communities."

Estates like Glenburn and the Lodge at Wah are leading by example. Glenburn’s sustainability initiatives have earned it national recognition, while the latter has recently gone fully organic, reflecting its long-standing commitment to eco-friendly tourism.

A helping hand for estates

The Indian tea industry faces rising costs, stagnant markets, and financial pressures that threaten its survival. While bulk tea production remains the primary revenue stream, tea estates also serve as lifelines for entire

Cultural performances is one of the highlights on offer for the guest at Wild Mahseer.

ICONIC TEA ESTATES TO VISIT

Tea plantations, steeped in tradition and nestled in breathtaking landscapes, offer a glimpse into the rich heritage and meticulous artistry behind India’s iconic teas.

Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Bodinayakanur, Tamil Nadu

Jorhat Tea Estates, Jorhat, Assam

Known as the ‘Tea Capital of the World’, Jorhat is home to several iconic estates and the Tocklai Tea Research Institute. Visitors can explore the science and art behind Assam’s tea production while enjoying the lush surroundings.

Perched at an altitude of 7,900ft., Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is the highest tea plantation in the world. Known for its panoramic views of the Western Ghats, the estate offers visitors a unique experience of tea-making using ageold orthodox methods. The journey to Kolukkumalai is an adventure in itself, involving scenic, rugged mountain trails.

Kanan Devan Hills Plantation, Munnar, Kerala

Located in the scenic hill station of Munnar, this sprawling estate is operated by Tata Tea and is one of southern India’s largest tea plantations. The estate also features a Tea Museum where visitors can learn about the history of tea in the region and experience interactive tea-tasting sessions amidst stunning landscapes.

Makaibari Tea Estate, Kurseong, West Bengal

A pioneer of organic tea farming, Makaibari Tea Estate offers a blend of history, sustainability, and luxury. Visitors can savour its globally acclaimed teas, tour the biodynamic plantations, and stay in homestays that echo local traditions. Taj Guras Kutir, nestled within Makaibari Tea Estate, adds a touch of luxury to the serene surroundings.

communities, supporting workers and their families. This essential yet burdensome infrastructure highlights the urgent need for alternative revenue sources.

Tea tourism is emerging as a solution, providing estates with financial stability while preserving their heritage. Husna-Tara explains in an online discussion, “The kind of human statistics that are behind the cup of tea that everybody drinks every morning is huge. Running a hotel, growing maybe avocados one day, or something like that, is a way of keeping those communities safe.” Diversifying into hospitality allows estates to support their vast networks while adapting to modern challenges.

Surya calls tea tourism a “low-hanging fruit” that “adds a supplemental income, saves jobs, and makes the tea garden the hero”. By offering teainfused experiences, estates can educate visitors about their products while fostering loyalty and generating revenue.

ANAMIKA SINGH

CO-FOUNDER, ANANDINI HIMALAYA TEA

“There’s an opportunity to create a distinct identity for Indian tea tourism that differentiates it from other tea-producing regions.”

Singh highlights the ripple effects of such hospitality and educational undertakings, something beyond direct income: “When visitors connect with our teas through immersive experiences, they often become longterm customers and brand advocates. We've observed that participants in our tea workshops and tastings typically make larger purchases and show stronger brand loyalty compared to regular customers.” Thus, for boutique operations, tea tourism builds both brand value and sustainable growth.

Despite these hurdles, the opportunities in this sector are immense. The global demand for experiential, sustainable, and wellness tourism aligns perfectly with what tea tourism has to offer. Indian tea, with its rich heritage and diversity, provides unique experiences that can’t be replicated elsewhere. “We’re seeing increased domestic interest in understanding tea culture, particularly among young urban professionals who are eager to learn about artisanal teas and traditional production methods,” Singh adds. Digital platforms and social media have also become powerful tools for marketing tea tourism to a global audience. Virtual showcases of estates and immersive experiences have helped attract travellers seeking authenticity and depth. Singh highlights an exciting prospect: “Most importantly, there’s an opportunity to create a distinct identity for Indian tea tourism that differentiates it from other tea-producing regions, highlighting our unique traditions, diverse tea varieties, and the cultural heritage of different teagrowing regions.”

Tea tourism is more than just an escape; it’s a journey through history, culture, and community. As Anand eloquently puts it, “The tea story is way beyond the stay. It extends into the community. It extends to the owners, their vision about tea, their style, and, of course, their embracing of the local community and what they do with these things to create value—for them and for your travels.”

The Postcard Durrung Tea Estate features luxury chalets set amidst the plantation.

EAST INDIA

WILL THE GREEN SHOOTS SPROUT?

Still a comparative black hole for Indian hospitality, there seems to be a movement, finally, within the state governments to leverage India’s growing passion for travel, and within hospitality groups, to expand into the virgin region with immense possibilities.

SUMAN TARAFDAR

OPPOSITE PAGE: The shimmering tomb of Sher Shah Suri has put Sasaram, Bihar, on the tourism map



LEAD STAKEHOLDERS IN THE EASTERN REGION SHED LIGHT ON TOP PRIORITIES FOR THE REGION.

INDRANIL SEN

MINISTER OF STATE FOR TOURISM, WEST BENGAL

“At the recently concluded Bengal Global Business Summit (BGBS), West Bengal received investment proposals worth nearly ₹5,600 crore.”

 NITISH MISHRA

MINISTER OF STATE FOR TOURISM, BIHAR

“Come and invest in Bihar without hesitation, the government will support you at every step.”



SUDIVYA KUMAR SONU

MINISTER OF STATE FOR TOURISM, JHARKHAND

“The state tourism budget will go back to its traditional focus of religious tourism, balanced with its rich culture, nature, and heritage.”



PRAVATI PARIDA

DEPUTY CHIEF MINISTER, ODISHA

“We have decided to promote Odisha as a preferred destination for the MICE and destination weddings segment.”



HARSHAVARDHAN NEOTIA

CHAIRMAN, AMBUJA NEOTIA

“I see a lot of potential in destinations beyond Calcutta, which have very few branded hotels right now.”

GAURAV SONEJA

CLUSTER GENERAL MANAGER, ITC ROYAL BENGAL & ITC SONAR

“The initiatives to enhance infrastructure, develop tourist attractions, and support local businesses are notable strengths.”



MANISHA SHARMA

GENERAL MANAGER, WESTIN KOLKATA RAJARHAT

“Emphasising cultural heritage, improving infrastructure, and promoting local businesses has enhanced West Bengal’s appeal.”

“We will see a lot of new hotels opening up in Bhubaneswar in the next year or so, and 15-20 brands coming in.” 

GLEN D’SOUZA

GENERAL MANAGER, HYATT CENTRIC BALLYGUNGE KOLKATA

“West Bengal has successfully showcased its rich culture and supported eco-friendly tourism initiatives.”

VAISAKH SURENDRAN

GENERAL MANAGER, LYFE, BHUBANESWAR

K MOHANCHANDRAN

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT –OPERATIONS, EAST & NORTH EAST, IHCL

“Each of the eastern states has different moods and different challenges, and are starting from a very low base.”



SUNIL KUMAR

GENERAL MANAGER, JW MARRIOTT, KOLKATA

“Comprehensive frameworks that balance economic prosperity with environmental sustainability and cultural preservation are essential.”

“The east is wonderful”. “The people are so warm”. “The culture is so vibrant”. “How can I invest there?”

Though the initial three sentiments are often aired, unfortunately, the last one is not often expressed. Yes, the potential of the region is huge. “However, right now, we are not sure if we can viably operate hotels in the region,” is the widely held belief. That, perhaps, sums up the attitude of the hospitality sector in India.

Outside of Kolkata, there are hardly a handful of branded hotels in West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand and Odisha. About five years ago, the east, again outside of Kolkata, was an afterthought for the branded hospitality players. Perhaps rightly, given the under-penetration of hotels in most of the country. Regions other than the east, metaphorically and literally, are lower-hanging fruit, ideal for faster RoIs.

Hotelivate’s report, Indian Hospitality: Trends & Opportunities 2024, notes that in 2023/24, 25% of hotels reported occupancy rates of 50% or lower, a notable increase from the previous year. “The Eastern region, in particular, experienced

FROM TOP: The largest mangrove forest in the world, the spectacular Sundarbans, West Bengal, is a unique ecosystem; Tapang Green Lake, located at Nijigarh in Odisha is an emerging destination; Kolkata, West Bengal, has the largest extent of spell binding Victorian and Edwardian era buildings globally, including the Victoria Memorial.

INDIA: EASTERN STATES

a considerable increase in hotels with occupancy levels of 50% or lower.”

Similarly, for RevPAR in 2023-24, while the east experienced notable gains, reaching ₹4,313, with improved occupancy and rising rates, it is significantly below the other regions—west (₹5,744), north (₹5,634) and south (₹5,127), according to the same report. The comparisons are not flattering even in terms of growth. In terms of proposed branded hotel rooms across various parameters (2023/24 to 2028/29), the east’s share is 11%, compared to the north (42%), west (29%), and south (18%).

Indeed, the first branded five-star hotels in the country began in the east—as far back as the 18th century. What is now the Elgin Fairlawn started life in 1783! Similarly, the Auckland hotel (now The LaLit Great Eastern) opened circa 1840. The even older but since demolished Spence Hotel was, for long, the address for the top-end traveller. The Astor Kolkata began in 1905, while The Grand, now The Oberoi Grand, opened in the 1910s. As long as Kolkata was the political capital, and one of the two largest commercial centres of the subcontinent

along with Bombay (now Mumbai), hospitality saw rapid growth, at least in the city. That long shadow of that headway continued for a few decades even after the capital of the country shifted to Delhi in 1911.

Unfortunately, other prominent cities in the region, such as Patna, underwent a steady decline during the colonial period in comparison to the rest of the country. While limiting this slower pace of growth to any one reason would be an oversimplification, a combination of factors, such as ill-thought-out political and economic policies, and the division of Bengal causing the loss of a huge hinterland, contributed immensely to the slowing down.

“The city of Calcutta (Kolkata) may be reasonably well served with many brands here, but if you look at West Bengal in general, and particularly the tourist destinations, there are very few branded hotels outside the city of Calcutta, so I see a lot of potential there,” says Harshavardhan Neotia, Chairman, Ambuja Neotia, which has about 15 hotels in eastern India and a few more in the pipeline. While most of the group’s hotels are in West Bengal, it has just opened its first upscale hotel in Patna, almost all properties flying the Taj flag.

Regional disparities

Even within the region, there is vast disparity. Almost all the luxury and premium-end hotels are located in Kolkata, with branded top-end openings in the state coming only within the last few years. Indeed, the only other location to have a branded top flight in the region is Bodhgaya, which caters to a niche segment of religious tourism. While Bhubaneswar has been seeing branded hotels in the last few years, Patna’s only five-star hotel opened late in 2024.

BIHAR

JHARKHAND WEST BENGAL

ODISHA

Darjeeling and the Himalayan foothills in Bengal, a tourism destination for more than a century, have also seen top-flight hotels open only recently. The rest of the region remains devoid of branded hotels, which can be seen as hesitancy by owners and operators to invest in a region with great potential.

Emerging trends

Yes, there's a significant opportunity, says K Mohanchandran, Senior Vice President – Operations, East & North East, IHCL, whose ambit includes not just the eastern states, but also the northeastern states along with Bhutan and Nepal. “Each of them has different moods and different challenges. They are all starting from a very low base—Bihar, Odisha, Jharkhand, and even Chhattisgarh, so putting it together also takes its own pace. However, each of them has got so much going on, so much to offer.”

The eastern market seems to have developed brands and chains of its own, from the veteran Swosti, largely in Odisha, to the more contemporary Mayfair and Lyfe. Indeed, Lyfe, which opened its rather standout ‘round’, well technically oval, hotel in Bhubaneswar recently, is looking to add six to seven properties in the next few years, including opening a 30-acre MICE resort on the outskirts of the city shortly, reveals Vaishakh Surendran, General Manager, Lyfe, Bhubaneswar. “The group is adding greenfield and brownfield properties in locations such as Puri, Paradip, Rourkela and Bhitarkanika. The state is growing rapidly, and we are eager to grow our portfolio to tap into this market. We are looking at smaller cities as well. While a lot of markets suffer from being overly developed, these are areas in which there's a lot of potential to grow and develop. And that's where the focus is right now.”

Surendran is confident the state will see rapid growth in the coming years. “We will see a lot of new hotels opening up in Bhubaneswar probably in about the next year or so. There should be about 15, 20 brands

INDIA OCCUPANCY, ADR AND REVPAR 2019-24

Source: *mohfw.gov.in. Source: ' statisticstimes.com

The Lingaraja Temple in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is a masterpiece of Kalinga architecture and one of the most significant temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.

FY 2023-24 GSDP IN LAKH CRORE

Bhitarkanika National Park, Odisha is India's second largest mangrove ecosystem after the Sunderbans.

coming in. Whenever there is a lot of room supply in the market, it can take bigger events and we can contribute to the rooms and it actually helps the entire market to sustain.”

Cultural capital and policy initiatives

Source: Created with mapchart.net

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₹20-30 LAKH CRORE

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₹10-15 LAKH CRORE

₹5-10 LAKH CRORE

LESS THAN 5 LAKH CRORE

The region is particularly well poised to cash in on its rich cultural legacy and offerings, and has the potential to develop several niche sectors that can be tourism hubs. Bodhgaya , Bihar has demonstrated this amply. Similar opportunities await in cities such as Puri, Odisha, which is already an established destination for religious tourism and is seeing branded hotels set up shop, including the recently opened Taj Puri Resort & Spa. Deoghar, Jharkhand is a locally popular hill station in a region dotted with scenic spots. Chilika Lake and Bhitarkanika, Odisha are magnets for nature tourism already and have great potential to develop into premium destinations.

Shantiniketan, Rabindranath Tagore’s centre for a then new evolved way of life, again is a popular destination locally but sees comparatively few tourists from beyond, and lacks branded hotels. Bengal’s old capitals of Murshidabad and Pandua are finally seeing an efflorescence of boutique hotels. Crafts, art and culinary tourism are on the rise in all the states of the region due to products such as Baluchari saris, ikat, rosogolla, etc.

West Bengal’s policy for hospitality and tourism has played a crucial role in driving growth and development within the sector, says Manisha Sharma, General Manager, Westin Kolkata Rajarhat. “By emphasising

cultural heritage, improving infrastructure, and promoting local businesses, the policy has successfully enhanced the region's appeal to both domestic and international travellers. Continued focus on sustainable practices, digital innovation, and workforce development will further solidify the state's position as a leading destination. With its rich cultural offerings and a supportive policy environment, the hospitality and tourism sector is well-positioned for sustained success and growth.”

The state’s hospitality and tourism policies have made notable progress, particularly in promoting cultural heritage, eco-tourism, and improving infrastructure, points out Glen D’souza, General Manager, Hyatt Centric Ballygunge Kolkata. “The state has successfully showcased its rich culture, supported ecofriendly tourism, and enhanced connectivity, making it a more attractive destination.”

According to Gaurav Soneja, Cluster General Manager, ITC Royal Bengal & ITC Sonar. “The initiatives to enhance infrastructure, develop tourist attractions, and support local businesses are notable strengths. Additionally, the focus on eco-tourism and communitybased tourism is praiseworthy. The

GSDP* AT CURRENT PRICES (IN 7 BILLIONS)

Spanning the Hugli, the Howrah Bridge, Kolkata, (now Rabindra Setu), has been the city’s defining image for the past eight decades.

presence of ITC Hotels in Kolkata, celebrating indigenous flavours, rooted in the soil, and paying tribute to Bengal, contributes to the overall enriching experience for guests.”

D’souza cautions that there are areas that need attention.

“The state could benefit from stronger marketing efforts to better compete with other popular destinations. Additionally, while infrastructure in major areas has improved, remote regions still require better facilities. Streamlining bureaucratic processes would also encourage more investment in the hospitality sector. For further growth, I’d recommend more aggressive marketing, simplifying regulations for businesses, and focusing on sustainable tourism practices. Public-private partnerships could also play a crucial role in boosting infrastructure and services, particularly in lesser-known destinations.”

States of eastern India in bold

Built in 1928, the Golmuri Golf course in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand annually hosts the Tata Open Golf Tournament.

SECTORAL GROSS VALUE ADDED (GVA)

2023-24 WEST BENGAL

2023-24 ODISHA

2023-24 BIHAR 2023-24 JHARKHAND

Source: GVA graphs - Niti Aayog

Green shoots, hurdles

Can a combination of tea, sand and beach, hills and mountain resorts, forest getaways, bountiful riches of the culinary and cultural variety, and a welcoming atmosphere combine with modern infrastructure for tourism and hospitality to make for a better future for the sector in the east? Time will tell. The directional graph for the region finally seems to be turning to point consistently upwards.

The governments across the region are finally taking proactive measures to enhance tourism, introducing supportive policies and rolling out initiatives aimed at facilitating growth and attracting more visitors.

OHVI: KEY OPERATING STATISTICS BY ADMINISTRATIVE ZONES (2011/12-2023/24)

Source: Hotelivate Research

TOP TOURISM DESTINATIONS BY STATE

Each of the four states, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal and Odisha, are replete with tourism spots. While some are of national and international acclaim, nearly all do not yet get the kind of tourism they could get, whether it be Konark, Sundarbans, Chilika, Nalanda or even Kolkata. Hospitality has matched these trends, with quality infrastructure only beginning to come in some sites, and non-existent in others. The potential is truly immense though.

THE TOP 10 DESTINATIONS IN EACH STATE ARE LISTED IN THE FOLLOWING PAGES.

Ghora Katora, ‘Horse Bowl’, is a natural lake near Rajgir, Bihar.

WEST BENGAL

LEADING THE PACK

West Bengal, the region’s largest economy, leads in terms of hospitality infrastructure. At the recently concluded Bengal Global Business Summit (BGBS), West Bengal received investment proposals worth nearly ₹5,600 crore in the state, according to the West Bengal minister of state for tourism, Indranil Sen. He also revealed that apart from these, 70 tourism-related projects will be taken up in the 2025-26 fiscal, including 38 in southern Bengal. Forty new luxury hotels are expected to be added to the supply of organised room inventory in West Bengal, according to Nandini Chakravorty, Principal Secretary, Government of West Bengal.

Indeed, visitor numbers are also up in the region, with government data mentioning that while about eight crore domestic tourists visited various tourist destinations in West Bengal in 2022-23, that figure has increased to 18.4 crores to date in 2024-25, according to Sen. “Foreign tourist arrivals in the state stood at 10 lakh in 2022-23, which has risen to 31 lakh till date in 2024-25.”

West Bengal’s policies serve as a cornerstone for the hospitality and tourism industry's growth and development, says Sunil Kumar, General Manager, JW Marriott, Kolkata. “Comprehensive frameworks that balance economic prosperity with environmental sustainability and cultural preservation are essential. By fostering a conducive climate for investment, innovation, and skill development, governments can significantly contribute to the sector's success and its role in driving overall economic growth.”

The eastern region has lagged behind most other parts of the country economically in recent decades, “and that is reflected in its hospitality as well. Kolkata, Bengal and maybe the eastern region are currently not at par in terms of ARRs or RevPar to other parts of the country,” admits Neotia. “There was a period when the supply was high. The demand is picking up. International traffic was low generally. We did have a lot of people from Bangladesh, but not generally from the Western world. I think that's gradually picking up. So we should get there as other cities are. Of course, Kolkata is a cheaper city than Bombay and Delhi. So sure, the prices will be less than those cities, but I think the gap is narrowing.”

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The Himalayas around Darjeeling boast multiple viewpoints, such as Golpahar here; the historic Kathgola Palace, Murshidabad, is now a museum; Durga Puja is an annual religious festival cultural phenomenon for Bengal.

In evaluating the state's policies, one area that could see improvement is promotion and branding, says Soneja. “A more robust marketing strategy is needed to position West Bengal as a premier tourist destination both nationally and internationally. Furthermore, investing in training programs for hospitality professionals is crucial to elevate service quality and enhance guest experiences. Addressing these areas of improvement could significantly boost West Bengal's allure as a tourist destination and ensure a more sustainable and fulfilling experience for visitors.”

About 30 top-flight hotels are expected to come up in Bengal over the next two to three years, according to state officials. Interestingly, Kolkata is expected to see the first Indian hotel of the Atmosphere Core Group, Ozen, open in the city. Siliguri, the largest city in the state in the north, has ten upscale hotels in the pipeline. At BGBS, Ambuja Neotia announced an investment plan of around ₹2,700 crore in West Bengal’s tourism and hospitality sector over the next five years. The group is also working on Bengal’s first internationalstandard golf township, featuring an 18-hole golf course, villas, apartments, and a golf hotel at an expected investment of ₹5,000 crore. The Kolkata-based Jain Group has recently announced it will invest ₹500 crore in the hospitality sector by 2030.

MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) is an emerging focus for the state. State tourism officials claimed that the direct potential of MICE tourism in the state is about ₹4,700 crore while the indirect impact could go up to ₹11,000 crore. “Bengal’s strategic position as the gateway to South-East Asia and the northeast, coupled with our vibrant heritage and modern infrastructure, makes us an unmatched MICE investment destination,” they said. According to Sudesh Poddar, President, Hotel and Restaurant Association of Eastern India (HRAEI): “The state’s initiative to promote Bengal as a MICE destination will be a game changer for the tourism and hospitality sectors.”

Chakravorty has spoken about how keen the state government is on establishing a convention facility in the city to explore its potential as a MICE destination, for which the state is exploring multiple funding options such as government-funded, private-sector, or PPP. She also spoke about exploring the MICE tourism potential for cities such as Asansol, Durgapur and Digha.

WEST BENGAL

Destinations with no branded hotels

COOCH BEHAR: A rare planned town in India, it is known for its architectural heritage and eco tourism.

DIGHA: West Bengal's most popular sea resort, criminally underserved by hospitality ‘brands’.

NABADWIP: Along with neighbouring Mayapur, it is a pilgrimage site on nine islands on Ganga.

SHANTINIKETAN: Home to the Visva-Bharati University, Rabindranath Tagore's vision of creating a better world for humanity, today full of unique festivals and art.

Destinations with branded hotels

BISHNUPUR: The terracotta temples, built during the Malla dynasty, are attracting global renown for not just their allure, but also technology. Peerless.

DARJEELING: Once a summer resort for the British Raj elite, its numerous attractions include the ‘Toy train’, views of the Kanchendzongkha, Himalayan landscapes, tea estates and monasteries. Mayfair, Taj, Elgin, some premium independent hotels.

DOOARS: Literally meaning ‘doors’, this is a stunningly picturesque region at the foothills of the Himalayas, its tea plantations, wildlife sanctuaries, forests, rivers and fields making for a unique region. Some boutique hotels spread across the region.

KOLKATA: Once the second largest city of the British empire, this commercial hub is also a tourism hotspot, blending cultural, culinary, architectural heritage with modern attractions. Think rosogollas, Balucharis, phuckhas, trams, Howrah Bridge… Taj, ITC, Marriott, Hyatt, Lemon Tree, Hyatt, Lalit, Accor, Park, IHG, Pride, Peerless, Golden Tulip, Sarovar, Fern, Treebo, some significant independent and a few boutique hotels.

MURSHIDABAD: With one of the largest historic palaces of the world, this medieval capital of the region is full of impressive built heritage. A couple of premium boutique hotels.

SUNDARBANS: The largest mangrove forest in the world, is one of the most biologically productive of all natural ecosystems. A riverine way of life combines with the only natural mangrove tiger habitat. Hotel Sonar Bangla.

BIHAR

EMERGING FROM SLUMBER

Bihar, too, seems to have emerged from a long slumber regarding its tourism potential. The state, which is poll bound this year, saw extensive announcements of projects, including in the tourism sector. The announcements totalled an outlay of over ₹60,000 crore for various projects. In addition, the government’s decision to develop sites related to the Buddha for tourism is expected to help Bihar, which has several key holy Buddhist sites. The upgradation of existing airports in Patna and Bihta was also announced. The state has been bereft of ‘branded’ top-end hotels for long. 2024 saw both Taj and Radisson open hotels in Patna, while The Fern launched in Bodhgaya, which arguably has the largest number of premium hotels outside Kolkata in the eastern region, including Hyatt and Sarovar.

The state’s tourism minister Nitish Mishra announced that the Bihar Tourism Department has introduced the Bihar Tour Operators, Travel Agency and Hotel

Management Incentive Scheme 2024 to bolster tourism activities. The Bihar Tourism Policy provides additional incentives for tour operators, hotels, and resorts. In January 2025, the Bihar government initiated the process for the construction of three new five-star hotels in Patna. Of course, the ongoing overhaul of the Patna Museum is also expected to become a major attraction, joining the already stupendous Bihar Museum, arguably the best museum in the country.

“Come and invest in Bihar without hesitation, the government will support you at every step. We are organising investment sessions along with roadshows across the country, with the next event scheduled in Kolkata next month,” Mishra said. Vinay Kumar Rai, Director, Bihar Tourism said at a state tourism roadshow in Delhi: “In 2023, Bihar attracted 82.1 million domestic and foreign tourists, and we are committed to further increasing this number.”

The Darbhanga Palace in Patna, now part of Patna University, was built by the Maharajas of Darbhanga, one of the wealthiest zamindars of Bihar.

BIHAR

Destinations with no branded hotels

BHAGALPUR: One of the largest universities of its time, the ruins of the Pala dynasty Vikramshila University, including stupas and chaityas, are an impressive reminder of the region’s ancient cultural roots.

MADHUBANI: An ancient city known for its richness in art and culture, especially the eponymous paintings.

NALANDA: Known as an education hub from the 5th to 12th centuries, the remnants of the Nalanda University are still impressive.

PAVAPURI: Jal Mandir marks the cremation site of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism.

RAJGIR: Associated with Buddha, it is today known for the modern Vishwa Shanti Stupa, or the World Peace Pagoda.

SASARAM: Best known for one of the most impressive tombs, that of Sher Shah Sur, the founder of the Sur Empire.

SONEPUR: The annual Sonepur Cattle Fair is one of the world's largest cattle fairs.

VAISHALI: A crucial stop on the Buddhist circuit, Buddha is said to have delivered his last sermon and announced his Parinirvana here.

Destinations with branded hotels

BODH GAYA: This is where Gautama attained enlightenment to become Buddha, and is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists from around the world. Hyatt, Sarovar, Fern, some premium independent hotels.

PATNA: The ancient Patliputra, capital of multiple kingdoms, including the Mauryan, today its most impressive remnants are the colonial era Golghar and the museums, especially Bihar Museum. Taj, Lemon Tree, Treebo, some reputed independent hotels.

ODISHA

A WELL-PLACED CONTENDER

Odisha, which traditionally has had the best-known tourism offerings in the region, is probably the best placed amongst these states, though its tourism department tagline, ‘India’s best kept secret’ almost belies the claim. Bhubaneswar and Puri already have a well-established hotel network, and more are being added. Radisson entered the state this year, while Taj has opened a hotel in Puri. Mayfair Lagoon has been a benchmark for hotels not only in Bhubaneswar, but the state, and the group is set to launch another resort in the city soon.

Meanwhile, ITC is to launch a Fortune soon. Even the Hotel Association of India (HAI) has initiated a chapter in Odisha recently. Rambha Palace opened by Lake Chilika, while Oyo launched its first homestay last year. During its budget outlay in 2024, the state government has allocated ₹800 crore to

The seaside town of Puri is the site of popular Jagannath Temple.

ODISHA

Destinations with no branded hotels

BARIPADA: A historic town known as the ‘second Puri’, it abuts the famous Simlipal National Park.

CHANDIPUR: An idyllic beach destination, it is very popular in the region.

BHITARKANIKA: Home to the state’s best known national park, it has some of the most spectacular flora and fauna.

HIRAKUD DAM: The 56 km-long dam is one of the most impressive dams ever built and a marvel of modern Indian architecture.

KONARK: An outstanding 13th century temple built by the Eastern Ganga dynasty, is, even in its ruined form, one of the most impressive temples ever made.

SAMBALPUR: ‘The gateway to the western Odisha, it is known for its distinctive culture and its hilly terrain, surrounded by rivers, hills, valleys, and forests.

Destinations with branded hotels

BHUBANESWAR: The temple city of India, is known for its architecture and grand temples. Also home to the Udayagiri and Khandgiri caves. Mayfair, ITC, Taj, Swosti, Lyfe, Lemon Tree, Oberoi.

the tourism sector, with a focus on the development and management of tourist destinations. The government has proposed to invest ₹445 crore for the development and management of existing and new tourist infrastructure.

At the Utkarsh Odisha - Make in Odisha Conclave 2025, held in January, the Odisha government revealed its decision to promote the state as a global destination for MICE and wedding tourism. “We decided to promote Odisha as a preferred destination for the MICE and destination weddings segment," Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said. “This is the perfect time for further investment in the state's tourism sector.”

CHILIKA: The largest salt water lake in Asia, it is known for its teeming wildlife and unique way of life. Swosti, OTDC, and some quality boutique hotels.

GOPALPUR: One of the state’s most charming seaside resort destinations, deserving of high end hospitality.  Mayfair, Park.

PURI: The Jagannath Temple is easily the biggest draw of the town, though increasingly its beach is also finding favour with the tourists. Mayfair, Swosti, Taj, ITC, some premium independent hotels.

PHOTO BY VIKAS ROHILLA ON UNSPLASH

The 13th century Sun Temple is one of the most magnificent built structures in the Indian subcontinent.

KEY OPERATING STATISTICS BY ADMINISTRATIVE ZONES (2022/23)*

Source: Hotelivate Research

Tea tourism

Focus for growth

While the scope for growth for most segments within tourism is significant, states such as West Bengal have chosen to focus on tea tourism to attract attention—and prospective visitors. In the last few years, the West Bengal government has received proposals totalling ₹1,400 crore aimed at developing tourism and allied businesses within the region’s tea gardens, according to Hotelivate.

The updated Tea Tourism and Allied Business Policy of 2019 permits tea estates to allocate up to 15% of their land area—limited to 150 acres—for tourism purposes. This policy has unveiled significant, yet largely untapped, potential in tea tourism. “The state has chosen tea as a big thing immediately,” points out K Mohanchandran, Senior Vice President – Operations, East & North East, IHCL. “So whether it's a Mayfair or a Taj or a Hyatt, hospitality brands are looking at getting into the north.”

The policy has led to an increasing proliferation of resorts and hotels in and around tea gardens, such as Taj Chia Kutir and Mayfair Tea Resort Shiliguri. Other hospitality brands have also signed on to open hotels amongst the tea plantations.

Assam, too, is beginning to focus on tea. The state has launched a recent initiative, ‘Promotion and Development of Tea Tourism Infrastructure in Assam’, which aims to enhance the tourist experience at the state’s sprawling tea estates. The adoption of tea tourism by the state governments should give a fillip to the segment, and highlight the sheer beauty of the region at a time of greater attention on the visual appeal, especially through social media.

includes Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Manipur, Nagaland, Odisha,

PHOTO BY ARYAN SINGH ON UNSPLASH

JHARKHAND

Destinations with no branded hotels

BOKARO: Initially an industrial township, it is a city with lakes, and beautiful parks, ideal for relaxation.

DEOGHAR: The site of one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples, it is a popular religious destination.

DHANBAD: ‘The coal capital of India’ is surrounded by several notable attractions, including Panshet and Maithon dams.

GHATSHILA: A town known for its festivals, which offer a glimpse into tribal ways of life.

HAZARIBAGH: A beautiful town, it is located amidst dense forests and striking rock formations.

MASSANJORE: Home to the ‘Canada Dam’, across the Mayurakshi River.

NETARHAT: A popular hill station for locals, it is the highest point of the Chhota Nagpur plateau.

SHIKARJI: Home to Parasnath Hill, the highest mountain in Jharkhand, and a pilgrimage site for Jains.

Destinations with branded hotels

JAMSHEDPUR: Located amidst the picturesque Dalma Hills, this hub for the Tatas is a rare planned city. Home to The Taj Group, Ramada, Lemon Tree and Treebo.

RANCHI: Once the summer capital of Bihar, its cool climate, and surrounding waterfalls and forests make a quick getaway possible. Home to Radisson, Sarovar, Treebo, FabHotel, Oyo, and Capitol Hill Hotel, which is the highest rated.

Jharkhand, known for its mining prowess, is looking to transform its image to become a tourist destination. And it has huge potential. The government has proposed the development of a 506-kilometre, four-lane road network, designed to enhance connectivity and make travel seamless for visitors exploring the state’s attractions. According to the Indian Tourism Statistics 2023, Jharkhand welcomed more than 3.8 million domestic travellers and nearly 200,000 international visitors in 2022.

Playing to its strengths, the state plans to focus on eco-tourism, women’s empowerment, and professional hospitality partnerships to take the state’s tourism offerings forward. The state is launching the Netarhat Utsav, to be held towards the end of the year. The state is also to make Topchanchi Lake a major tourism destination. Jharkhand’s hilly terrain and location on the Chhota Nagpur Plateau means the state is rich in ideal tourist getaways.

According to Sudivya Kumar Sonu, Jharkhand’s Tourism Minister, the state tourism budget will go back to its traditional focus of religious tourism. “I aim to balance this, ensuring that the diverse aspects of Jharkhand’s tourism, its rich culture, nature, and heritage, are given equal prominence,” he said in an interview. “Another challenge is that most of Jharkhand’s prime tourist spots are situated in forest areas, and historically, there’s been little collaboration between the tourism and forest departments.” He plans to change that and to partner with hotel management institutes to train locals in hospitality service.

The east, with almost a fifth of India’s population, is growing rapidly economically. Starting from a comparatively lower base compared to the rest of India, it has a larger headroom for growth. Stymied for decades by several factors, including policy and lack of investment, the region seems to be finally set for significant growth and possibly transformation. Not lacking in economic resources or potentially popular tourist destinations, from heritage to religious, from beachside to mountains and hills, adventure, cultural, and culinary and even modern MICE tourism, the right policies should see it grow rapidly. However, traditional challenges are not easy to overcome at a go, and the states will have to be careful not to lag further back as the rest of the nation advances.

Jharkhand is dotted with multiple lakes, such as the Jhiri Lake.

2024 THE YEAR TO EMULATE

From the depths of 2020 to the records of 2024, it has been a remarkable roller coaster ride for Indian hospitality. A closer look reveals just how amazing this ride has been.

Indian hospitality is on a high as almost never before. The industry is seeing near record-breaking levels, whether for occupancy, ADRs and RevPAR, largely fuelled by a surge in demand for travel and events. The sector is currently valued at over $24 billion and is expected to build on this growth and reach $31 billion within the next five years. Investment in the sector is growing at an unprecedented pace, almost across all tourism

SUMAN TARAFDAR

hubs as well as major urban centres. From city centre hotels to resorts catering to various niches—leisure, wildlife, adventure, beach, mountain, etc., all are attracting ever greater interest from investors, as is religious tourism. The investment in the premium segments— luxury, upper upscale by several institutional and branded players is especially notable, which is likely to result in a record number of branded

hotels in the coming years. An unprecedented number of players in the sectors also went public, delivering an optimistic outlook for the sector.

The shortage of skilled staff has been actively addressed over the previous year, and even though it’s a long-term challenge, the sector is seeing increasing employment opportunities and the sector is drawing back increasing numbers, many of whom had exited during COVID.

INDIA OCCUPANCY, ADR, REVPAR 2019-24

INDIA OCCUPANCY, ADR, REVPAR 2019-24

Source: CoStar

KEY MARKETS - ADRs & OCCUPANCY

Source: Horwath HTL

UDAIPUR

DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL SUPPLY SHARE

Source: Horwath HTL

The numbers tell the story. And what a story.

 2024 reported all India occupancy at 63.9%.

 The ADR was just short of 8k (₹ 7,951).

 RevPAR was over ₹ 5,000.

 RevPAR growth y-o-y stood at 10.7%.

 India finally has over 200,000 branded hotel rooms.

 About 14,400 rooms were added in 2024. New Build hotels added 11,700 rooms, conversions (net) added 2,000 rooms and another 700 from expansions or hotel completions.

 The supply pipeline has grown to 105,000 rooms to be opened by 2029.

 The total current pipeline of branded rooms stands at 113,000.

 The average size of new build hotels was 69 rooms; of conversions, 46 rooms.

 67% of supply addition in 2024 and 65% of pipeline supply were in markets outside the top 10, widening the spread of operations and demand.

 43% of pipeline supply is in leisure destinations; this includes 12% growth in religious destinations.

 India had 61,000 rooms in the leisure segment in 2024, about 31% of the total supply.

 Seven markets had at least 70% occupancy - Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Lucknow, Indore and Coimbatore.

 23 of the 24 largest markets for hospitality in India saw RevPAR growth, Ahmedabad being the only exception.

 Amongst leading markets, Udaipur had the highest ADR of ₹ 15,946 followed by Mumbai (₹ 11,500), Goa (₹ 10,900) and Delhi (₹ 10,300).

 For RevPAR, Mumbai topped with ₹ 8,900 followed by Udaipur, Delhi and Goa topping the ₹ 7,000 mark.

 ADR figures are remarkable –in Udaipur, the Luxury & Upper Upscale segment crossed

₹ 24,000.

 Two hotel portfolios were listed, along with an owner-operator hotel

SEGMENTAL OCCUPANCY

Source: CoStar

company. 3 other hotel companies are listed on the SME exchange.

 Market capitalisation of the sector has increased almost 12 times, from ₹ 207 billion in March 2015 to ₹ 2.5 trillion as of the end January 2025.

 Increased revenues have enabled improved EBITDA margins for hotels. Data for listed companies, covering about 44,000 rooms, reflect average EBITDA margins of 36% for FY24 (+1 pt from FY23) and 32% for the half year April 24 to September 24 (similar to the corresponding previous year period).

 The debt for Indian hospitality is reducing. Data from various hotel companies representing ownership of over 53,000 rooms,

shows loan to value at about 12.5% reflecting lower risk levels to date.

 Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTA) for H1-24 were 4.8 million (+9.1% over 2023). The slowdown of travel from Bangladesh (the largest source market, according to GoI data) has impacted H2-24 with arrivals from January to October 2024 at 7.68 million (+2.8% over 2023), but behind 2019 levels.

 The quantum of YoY ADR gain has slowed in comparison to 2022 and 2023, but these were unusual years of recovery.

 For the first time in several years, the net effect of conversions (adjusted for de-flagged hotels) was positive, adding 2,000 rooms to the overall supply.

 Among 169 new-build hotels –

• 3 hotels with 200-225 rooms.

• 37 hotels with 50-75 rooms.

• 73 hotels with less than 50 rooms.

The market is growing in capacity and size. In 2024, demand increased by 29,000 rooms per day compared to 2019.

Source: India Hotel Market Review 2024, Horwath HTL

2024’s impressive growth should augur well for the sector, despite its notorious cyclical nature. Just how durable and solid the year has been in the next five to ten years. Till then, everyone can bask, and raise a toast to the year that was.

LUX-UPUP UP-UPMID M-E

THE UNTOLD CHAPTER

HICSA is 20. Two decades of shaping the hospitality investment landscape in India, filled with iconic speakers, groundbreaking discussions, and a fair share of behind-the-scenes chaos.

MANAV THADANI, MRICS, FOUNDER CHAIRMAN, HOTELIVATE

HICSA (Hotel Investment Conference South Asia) is turning 20 this year, and, wow, what a journey it’s been! Much like a parent watching their child turn 20—filled with pride, nostalgia, and a deep sense of accomplishment—I feel the same about HICSA. I’ve seen all the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Let me tell you, organising a conference like this is like herding lions while juggling flaming torches. It’s chaotic and unpredictable, and somehow, it all comes together in the end, even if it means dancing the way to the stage.

Over the years, HICSA has delivered some truly unforgettable moments, shaping the discourse of hospitality investment while bringing together the brightest minds in the industry. Who could forget the times when industry titans like Ratan Tata and Raymond Bickson graced the stage, sharing their unparalleled wisdom and vision? Their insights not only inspired but also set benchmarks for the future of Indian hospitality.

As the conference evolved, so did the way we engaged with our audience. The introduction of live polls and interactive sessions was a game-changer, transforming HICSA from a traditional conference into a dynamic, participant-driven experience. Suddenly, delegates weren’t just attendees; they were active contributors, shaping the conversations in real time.

One of the most defining moments in HICSA’s journey was the launch of the HICSA Lifetime Achievement Awards—a tribute to the pioneers who have redefined hospitality. Legends like PRS Oberoi, Capt. CP Nair, KB Kachru, Ajit Kerkar and Nakul Anand, to name a few, have been honoured,

celebrating their invaluable contributions to the industry. These awards have not only recognised individual excellence but also set a benchmark for future generations of hoteliers.

A personal favourite moment came in the post-COVID era when we introduced a thematic approach to HICSA. That year ʼs theme, Harder. Better. Faster. Stronger. reflected the resilience, innovation, and adaptability required to navigate an industry rebounding from the crisis. It was a defining moment—one that underscored the industry's ability to come back stronger than ever.

HICSAʼs content has also mirrored the industry ʼs rollercoaster ride and evolved with time. The early 2000s were all about Indiaʼs tourism boom and debates. By 2017, luxury was king,

with panels dissecting ʻInstagrammableʼ hotels and fusion restaurants. The pandemic years felt like survival mode, but 2024 roared back with record crowds, AI-powered sustainability talks, portfolio expansions and all-time RevPar highs.

And then, there was HICSA 2024, which raised the bar yet again. With a record-breaking 750 delegates in attendance, the conference saw a trio of global CEOs—Sébastien Bazin, Mark S. Hoplamazian, and Federico J. González—sharing the stage, delivering insights that resonated across boardrooms and investment portfolios alike. It was a true testament to HICSAʼs influence on the global hospitality landscape.

Of course, no edition of HICSA would be complete without the legendary gala dinners—where the industry ʼs finest come together for an evening of great food, high-powered networking, and just the right amount of fun after a packed day of thought-provoking discussions. These gatherings have become the perfect setting for candid conversations, new partnerships, and, occasionally, a few unexpected surprises! We took it to another level last year with the ʻCulinary Carnivalʼ, where we had seven iconic restaurants take centre stage and serve the delegates an unforgettable spread.

While HICSA was synonymous with Mumbai in its early years, it has embraced change, moving to Delhi and Bangalore before making its muchanticipated return to Mumbai this year. Each location has added a unique flavour to the conference, but thereʼs something special about bringing it back to the city where it all began. As we celebrate 20 years of HICSA, itʼs

Over the years, HICSA has delivered some truly unforgettable moments, shaping the discourse of hospitality investment while bringing together the brightest minds in the industry.

impossible not to look back at these moments with immense pride. But if history has taught us anything, it’s that the best moments are yet to come.

But behind the glitz and glam, there’s a lot of hard work. Planning starts months in advance—picking the right venue, lining up speakers, coordinating with sponsors, and making sure every detail is just right. And let’s not forget the egos. You’ve got speakers who are legends in the industry, hotel owners with strong opinions, and investors who want everything their way. Everyone has their vision of how things should go, and my job is to make sure everyone feels heard while keeping the event on track. It’s a delicate dance—like trying to balance a tower of champagne glasses on a wobbly table. One wrong move, and it all comes crashing down.

And then there’s the constant change. Nothing is ever confirmed until it actually happens. Speakers drop out at the last minute, panel topics shift, and schedules get flipped upside down. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve had to rewrite the agenda or scramble to find a replacement speaker.

One year, we had a keynote speaker cancel the night before the conference due to a health scare. A few times, it’s been that a foreigner has shown up at the airport not realising that s/he did not have a valid visa or that they simply did not apply for it.

Panel confusions, moderators taking over the discussion, keynote speakers going beyond time or me deciding to dance for my opening speech, there is never a dull moment. But despite all the chaos, there’s something magical about seeing it all come together. When the conference finally kicks off, and you see people networking, sharing ideas, and making deals, it’s all worth it. The energy in the room, the buzz of conversation, the “aha” moments during panel discussions—it’s what makes all the stress and sleepless nights worthwhile.

This year, being the 20th edition, feels extra special. We’ve got some exciting new features planned, and I can’t wait to see everyone come together to celebrate how far we’ve come. The theme this year is “20 Years: Past, Present and Prophecies”.

Keeping in line with the theme, there are 20 things I want to highlight as mishaps or faux-pas! Often what we refer to internally as ‘behind the scenes’. Let me dive into them, in excruciating detail—much to my own regret (and your amusement).

The 20 faux-pas

Let me start with an easy one, the host hotel’s "discounted room block" turns out to be more expensive than just booking directly. Making it really embarrassing for us as conference hosts.

More on the joys of hotel overbookings—because who doesn’t love a little chaos? The front desk chose to start asking our VIP guests to walk away and book another hotel as they couldn’t confirm their confirmed reservations.

The simple art of spelling—who knew it could cause such drama? You’d think we had personally rewritten their entire identity just to mess with them. Cue the awkward smiles, frantic apologies, and the collective realisation that sometimes, a misplaced letter can cause more damage than a missed flight.

Ah, my personal favourite—the ever-reliable presentation clicker

When Manav Thadani decided to accompany his opening speech with a dance.

deciding to retire midperformance. Picture this: me on stage, confidently clicking away, only to realise the slides aren’t budging. So, what’s the backup plan? An elegant, almost telepathic nod to my AV guy for every single slide change, turning what should be a seamless presentation into an elaborate game of charades.

The magic of virtual conferences—where technology promises to bring us closer but mostly just tests our patience. Post-pandemic, our grand return to conferencing kicked off with a virtual session that, true to form, started streaming… completely mute. Attendees were treated to a high-stakes game of lip-reading, only for the universe to balance things out by cutting the video the moment the sound finally returned. A truly immersive experience— just not in the way we intended!

The green room is a treasure trove of behindthe-scenes chaos that deserves its own tell-all article. One of my all-time favourites? A speaker who completely forgot that his mic was still on and, as he confidently stepped off stage, muttered something… well, let’s just say it was less than ideal for public broadcast.

The perfect storm of panel disasters—and my personal nightmare is a poor moderator. Or a

moderator who actually believes he or she is good and insists on getting that slot back for themselves, year after year. Look, if we are not reaching out then just get the message. We rate our moderators and take feedback every year from the audience.

Nothing adds excitement to a keynote quite like an unexpected AV glitch. The keynote speaker is on stage, and the presentation cannot be found! Awkward silences, frantic scrambling and sheer confusion. Yes, unfortunately this has happened on more than one occasion.

Once, the banquet room’s acoustics were so spectacularly awful that the panellists on stage had a hard time. They couldn’t hear themselves, let alone each other, turning what was meant to be an engaging discussion into a high-stakes game of guesswork.

A speaker who is supposed to be on stage and does not show up. We had to send him up there 15 minutes late to join the panel much to his own embarrasment.

While giving away door prizes one morning, a single delegate won the door prize three times as his card kept getting magically pulled out. Trust me, I enjoyed embarrassing the poor person. Never again has he made it back to the conference, either.

Oh, the one time a decade ago, a lady hotel executive chose to sneak into the conference without registering. She chose the perfect disguise to dress up in Grand Hyatt clothes of black and white to fit in as an employee only to be unfortunately recognised as a star actor. Shh….lets not name her as she’s still around in the business at a much more senior position today.

A guest jacket caught fire because there were simply too many decorative candles in the Grand Hyatt Courtyard. We found a simple solution and exited the candle decoration business.

An easy one, a bus breakdown to the closing dinner on Western Expressway.

A nightmare: a lunch banquet without chairs and cutlery.

This was a serious one. A union workers’ protest outside the hotel premises protesting a global hotel CEO’s presence in town required us to get police protection and get clearance to allow delegates to come through.

A break out session which simply does not attract any interest by delegates to attend. Unfortunately, it’s a common thread—sessions on Education, HR and Sustainability just haven’t worked at Hotelivate. The only way to make them work is for us to send our

own employees to attend and fill the room.

Nothing like a bout of tummy belly on stage. Yes, we had to see a certain panel speaker make an early exit.

Once, I left my opening speech behind and realised it only when I arrived at the podium – that’s when you discover something called brain freeze or, in Indian words, you have a “Bheja Fry” moment.

Lastly, perhaps one of my biggest faux pas was not to thank the host hotel team in Delhi (IHCL) when they had been generous enough to host the entire conference postCovid.

Despite all this, I would do it every year, mostly more than once, because it's the tangible manifestation of months of planning, the validation that you've created a space where minds connect and possibilities unfold, that keeps me going.

This year, as we celebrate the 20th milestone for HICSA, that feeling is amplified tenfold. It's not just another conference; it's a testament to two decades of shared passion, a legacy built on countless 'aha' moments, and a reminder that the pursuit of knowledge, the fostering of connection, is always, unequivocally, worth it. Here’s to making this year’s HICSA the most unforgettable edition yet!

NEW SPIRITS, NEW TRENDS

SOH explores three spirits that are testament to meticulous craftsmanship and offer distinct qualities to enrich your bar's selection.

DEEPALI NANDWANI

For hoteliers seeking to elevate their beverage offerings and cater to discerning guests, three distinct spirits are making waves: Amrut Expedition, Davana Vermouth, and The Glenwalk. Amrut Expedition, a pinnacle of Indian whisky craftsmanship, presents an ultra-premium experience with its 15-yearold single malt, limited to just 75 bottles and priced at ₹10 lakh. Meanwhile, Davana Vermouth introduces a unique, locally inspired twist to the vermouth category. Founded by Adarsh Gadvi and drawing on his family's distillation expertise, Davana offers both Rosso and Bianco variants, each infused with a blend of Indian botanicals, including wormwood. Finally, The Glenwalk, a blended Scotch whisky crafted in collaboration with actor Sanjay Dutt, brings a touch of Scottish tradition with an Indian flair. This award-winning whisky, with its smooth caramel notes and a hint of the Mahura flower, offers a balanced and approachable experience, ideal for hotel bars aiming to provide a classic yet distinctive Scotch offering.

AMRUT EXPEDITION

Rs 10 lakh. 15 years. 75 bottles. And a whisky.

Amrut Distilleries new whisky, Amrut Expedition, has created a tiny storm in the spirits industry because of the numbers involved: matured for 15 long years, this limited edition single malt, of which only 75 bottles are available, costs a whopping ₹10 lakh.

THE ART OF CRAFTING: The single malt has been aged years in two exceptional casks, the first eight years in a ex-Sherry cask from Europe, which infused it with sherry’s sweetness, and the next seven in an exBourbon cask from the US, affording it layers of complexity and texture.

ON THE NOSE: The first scent of sherried truffle and cane molasses is followed by whiffs of fruit marmalade, sandalwood, oak, and even vanilla.

TASTING NOTES: Bottled at 62.8% ABV, Amrut Expedition’s flavour profile spans sherried truffle, sweet cane molasses, hints of sandalwood and oak. As you sip along, the notes soften and become silkier, before 

segueing into hints of black pepper. The finishing notes are long and refreshing with hints of dried fruits, vanilla, and bitter cocoa.

“The balanced profile of the whisky has to be spot on. I didn’t want to compromise on that,” said Amrut’s Master Distiller Ashok Chokkalingam. “What’s fantastic at 14 years of age can be completely spoiled at 14 years and 6 months. So the difference between life and death is a few months,” he added, sharing that he tasted samples every two months until it reached perfection.

THE BOTTLE: The bottle, designed by Glencairn Crystal Studio, is diamond-shaped, hand-carved with gold engravings, individually numbered, and embedded with an NFC tag and authentication card. Crafted over six months and five prototypes, it comes in a metal-and-wood box. Collectors also receive a handcrafted silver peg measure from a Bangalore silversmith and a scroll with a note from the master distiller.

DAVANA VERMOUTH INDICA

On a summer afternoon in Goa, ideal for laidback launches, Adarsh Gadvi hosted the tasting of Davana Vermouth Indica, India’s first vermouth brand—a tribute to his love for this bold, fortified, and aromatised wine. Davana aims to carve a unique niche in India's burgeoning spirits market by not only introducing a locally crafted vermouth but also redefining it as a standalone drink, best enjoyed “on the rocks” rather than just in a martini or negroni. “We’re promoting easy serves, like vermouth on the rocks or with tonic and a pinch of salt, alongside cocktails such as our jamun-infused creation, reminiscent of kala khatta—a nostalgic throwback to childhood,” says Gadvi.

His family’s legacy in distillation, under the banner of Naveen Distillery—known for producing spirits for major brands—was his calling card until he set out to launch an Indian vermouth. Joining him is master distiller Evgenii Savvateev, who hails from a lineage of distillers and began exploring distillation, maceration, and production at 18. In India, Savvateev recognised a gap in the market for unique, high-quality craft spirits and played a pivotal role in bringing Davana Vermouth Indica to life, ushering in a new era of Indian craft aperitifs.

Vermouth is an aromatised wine infused with botanicals and herbs, a process Gadvi likens to gin production, but with wine as the base instead of a neutral spirit. Like wine, it is infused with various botanicals, notably the distinctive wormwood. “We are focusing on five pillars,” says Gadvi. “Authenticity—India’s first homegrown vermouth, made with locally sourced ingredients; Innovation—the first vermouth to feature wormwood (called davana in Kannada, and hence the name), a uniquely Indian botanical; Craftsmanship—a precisely developed recipe perfected over two years and 50 trials; Versatility—crafted for cocktails yet refined enough for sipping on its own; and Cultural Heritage—inspired by Ayurveda and India’s rich botanical traditions.”

It is available in two variants. Davana Rosso has a base of white wine infused with a complex blend of 23 botanicals, including herbs, spices, and flowers such as wormwood, cinnamon, cloves, and citrus peel. Davana Bianco, with 18 botanicals, uses a mix of herbs, spices, and flowers like chamomile, vanilla, cinnamon, and citrus peels.

THE ART OF CRAFTING: Davana Vermouth is crafted through a meticulous process, with its creation unfolding in three key stages: base wine selection, botanical extraction, and blending and maturation.

A high-quality base wine is used, which is then infused with various botanicals, prime among them wormwood. “We use both individual and combined extractions, working with grape and grain spirits, and sometimes infusing botanicals

directly into the wine. After testing over 50 formulations, Davana has perfected a method that results in a nuanced, balanced, and distinctly Indian vermouth,” says Gadvi. “The entire process, from extraction to bottling, spans 45 days, with each batch yielding around 1,000 litres.”

ON THE NOSE: Davana Bianco offers citrusy notes with hints of honey, vanilla, and white chocolate, balanced by floral, fruity aromas and a touch of spice with dry flower nuances. Davana Rosso exudes warm, spiced aromas reminiscent of Christmas spices like cinnamon, complemented by candied orange, rich red berries, caramel, raisins, and subtle apricot notes.

TASTING NOTES: During the tasting session, we had the opportunity to check the aroma profile of the concentrate, and the one for Davana Bianco particularly hinted to a delicious citrusy flavour profile. What first hit me is a well-balanced sweetness that transitions into subtle bitterness. The flavours of candied orange is followed by a lingering herbal finish. Adding a cube of ice to the vermouth brings out floral and fruity notes, and decreases the sweetness. Davana Rosso is far more complex blend of sweet and spicy flavours. Notes of orange and lemon, are followed by a subtle peppery finish. Ice enhances the complexity and brings out more of the spice.

THE BOTTLE: Davana’s bottle celebrates its Indian heritage, with botanical illustrations on the labels showcasing ingredients sourced from across India. The design evokes an Indian terroir, highlighting the brand’s commitment to local sourcing and craftsmanship.

THE GLENWALK

The Glenwalk, a blended Scotch crafted in Scotland and inspired by the picturesque Scottish glens, is the product of a collaborative effort between Cartel Bros' co-founders and actor Sanjay Dutt. This venture is deeply rooted in the Sani family's impressive 50-year legacy within the alcohol industry, a journey that began with a transition from mechanical engineering to alcohol retail, culminating in the establishment of the successful spirits retail venture, Living Liquids.

The Glenwalk's craftsmanship has won the whisky a Gold Medal at the India Wines and Spirits Award (IWS) 2024, and Silver medals at both the 2024 London Spirits Competition and the IWSC 2024.

DISTILLATION AND MATURATION: The Glenwalk’s creation involves a meticulous process of blending fine malt and grain Scotch whiskies, each matured in carefully selected traditional oak casks. This maturation process is crucial in achieving the whisky's signature smooth character and complex flavour profile. With an ABV of 40%, The Glenwalk is designed to offer a balanced and approachable drinking experience.

ON THE NOSE: Characterised by sweet caramel interwoven with subtle notes of flapjack and treacle, the inviting bouquet sets the stage for the tasting experience that follows.

TASTING NOTES: The whisky is smooth on the palate with a more dry finish, offering a clean, spicy medium length with sweet raisin and hay notes, and a distinctive hint of the Mahura flower, adding a regional touch to this otherwise classic Scotch blend.

THE BOTTLE: The bottle design features a black label adorned with an illustration of the Scottish Highlands, reflecting the whisky's origin.

WERE YOU AWARE?

BY DEEPALI NANDWANI

Jahanara’s Grand Caravanserais

Jahanara Begum, daughter of Shah Jahan, was a formidable Mughal princess and patron of architecture, commerce, and public welfare. As Padshah Begum, she shaped Mughal India's urban and economic landscape through her grand caravanserais—vital trade hubs that were both functional and architecturally magnificent. Adorned with intricate Mughal embellishments, lush courtyards, and water channels, these spaces offered respite and grandeur to weary travellers. Her most renowned caravanserai near Chandni Chowk in Delhi exemplified her vision, reinforcing trade while showcasing Mughal opulence. Through these commissions, Jahanara strengthened the empire’s economic dominance and upheld the royal tradition of public patronage.

Palaces, Power & Hospitality

The story of hospitality’s leading ladies is incomplete without the royal palaces turned luxury hotels, shaped by the women who owned them. Rambagh Palace in Jaipur, among the first to be transformed, was the vision of Rajmata Gayatri Devi. In Bhopal, Jehan Numa Palace—commissioned by General Obaidullah Khan, also the son of Nawab Begum—carries the legacy of the powerful Nawab Begums of Bhopal. From 1819 to 1926, Qudsia, Sikandar, Shahjehan, and Sultan Jahan led with progressive governance, military acumen, and advocacy for women's rights. Today, Jehan Numa Palace and its sister properties preserve the hospitality Bhopal is famous for, classical heritage, and a forward-thinking spirit.

Chanel & Sher-Gil: Hotels as Muse

Women-Only Hotel Floors

To meet the rising demand from solo female travellers, hotels worldwide have introduced women-only floors with enhanced security, privacy, and tailored amenities. These exclusive spaces feature controlled access, all-female staff, thoughtful touches like wellness kits, specialised toiletries, and dedicated lounges. In Singapore, Naumi Hotel offers a secured women-only floor with curated comforts. In India, luxury brands like The LaLit and ITC Hotels provide similar offerings, including female butlers, restricted keycard access, and in-room safety enhancements—ensuring a seamless blend of comfort and security.

Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel had a deep affinity for hotels, finding refuge in their elegance—most notably, the Ritz Paris. More than indulgence, it was a statement of independence and avant-garde spirit. Just steps from her atelier at 31 rue Cambon, the Ritz became an extension of her creative and social world. Similarly, India’s Amrita Sher-Gil was drawn to the Raffles Hotel in Singapore, where she painted some of her most famous works while immersing herself in colonial high tea culture. For both women, hotels were not just residences but sanctuaries of inspiration.

JOURNEY OF EXCELLENCE

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