AIR INDIA AND ZOMATO JOIN HANDS TO REDEFINE TRAVEL & FOOD LOYALTY

GURUGRAM, September 2025: Air India, India’s leading global airline, and Zomato, India’s food ordering and delivery platform, today announced a partnership that offers exclusive benefits, seamlessly blending travel experiences with food delivery rewards.

The partnership, which integrates the global ecosystem of Air India’s Maharaja Club loyalty programme with Zomato’s expansive food delivery platform, offers a range of exciting benefits for users, effective immediately. Zomato users who opt to link their Maharaja Club account on the Zomato app can avail the following benefits:

Earn Maharaja Points on Zomato transactions: Users will earn 2% Maharaja Points on all food delivery transactions above ₹499 on the Zomato app.

Welcome Bonus for new Maharaja Club members: New users enrolling in Air India’s Maharaja Club loyalty programme and linking their accounts via Zomato will receive a bonus of 2,000 Maharaja Points upon completion of their first flight activity with Air India, redeemable for future travel rewards.

Complimentary ticket voucher: Every day, one lucky member stands a chance to win a complimentary one-way Economy Class ticket voucher, valid for booking and travel within six months.

“We are delighted to partner with Zomato to bring together travel and food, two subjects that are at the heart of family discussions and individual lifestyles,” Sunil Suresh, Head of Marketing, Loyalty & E-commerce, Air India. “This partnership is in line with our continuing efforts to strengthen the value proposition of Maharaja Club and our vision of building it into one of the most rewarding loyalty programmes across industries.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Rahul Gupta, VP, Zomato, said, "We’re always looking for ways to make Zomato more useful in our customers’ lives. With this partnership, customers can earn Air India Maharaja points when they order food on Zomato. It’s a simple idea that makes our product more rewarding and will now take you places - literally.”

Customers can click here to learn more about the partnership and how they can link their Air India Maharaja Club accounts with Zomato.

As a member of Star Alliance, Air India offers Maharaja Club members global recognition and benefits across the alliance’s extensive network. Over the last two years, more than 50 brands across categories have entered partnerships with Air India for Maharaja Club, thus significantly enhancing the benefits for travellers.

About Air India group

The Air India group – comprising of full-service global airline Air India and value carrier Air India Express – is spearheading a new era of Indian aviation. The Air India story began in 1932 when JRD Tata piloted the airline’s inaugural flight and opened the skies for aviation in India. Today, Air India group employs more than 30,000 people, operates over 300 aircraft and carries customers to 55 domestic and 45 international destinations across five continents.

Returning to the Tata Sons in 2022 following 70 years under Government ownership, Air India group is in the midst of a five-year transformation program, Vihaan.AI. As part of the transformation, Air India placed the then largest-ever order for 470 new aircraft in 2023. In 2024, sister airlines Air Asia India and Vistara were successfully merged into Air India Express and Air India respectively, and the Airline opened South Asia’s largest aviation training academy.

A new flying school is scheduled to open in 2025, and construction of a greenfield maintenance base, to be operational in 2026, is underway. In addition to receiving new aircraft, all existing aircraft are progressively undergoing a full interior refit.

With transformation underway across all facets of the business and India’s rich legacy of hospitality, Air India is committed to being a world class global airline with an Indian heart.

Suba Hotels Limited Announces Opening of Initial Public Offering (IPO) on September 29, 2025

Mumbai, September 2025 – Suba Hotels Limited, one of India’s leading domestic hotel chains in the mid-market hospitality segment, announced the launch of its Initial Public Offering (IPO), which is set to open on Monday, September 29, 2025, and will close on Wednesday, October 1, 2025.

The Company operates across upscale, upper-midscale, midscale, and economy hotel formats, with a strong presence in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. As of July 2025, Suba had 88 operational hotels with 4,096 keys across 50+ cities, along with 40 upcoming properties comprising 1,831 rooms. Suba’s asset-light business model spans owned, managed, revenue-share, leased, and franchised hotels, and is further strengthened by its exclusive master franchise rights for Choice Hotels’ international brands - Comfort, Clarion, and Quality in India.

The Company intends to utilize the IPO proceeds towards funding capital expenditure requirements for upgrades and last-mile funding of hotel premises and general corporate purposes, enabling further scale-up in high-potential domestic and international markets.

IPO Details

• Issue Size: Up to 67,99,200 equity shares of face value ₹10 each

• Total Issue Size: ₹75.47 crore (at upper price band)

• Price Band: ₹105 – ₹111 per equity share

• Post-Issue Market Capitalization: ₹269.12 crore (at upper price band)

• Lot Size: 1,200 equity shares

• Listing Platform: NSE Emerge

IPO Timeline

• Anchor Investor Bidding Date: Friday, September 26, 2025

• Offer Opens: Monday, September 29, 2025

• Offer Closes: Wednesday, October 1, 2025

• Listing Date: Tuesday, October 7, 2025*

Share Allocation

• Qualified Institutional Buyers (QIBs): Up to 50% of Net Issue (including Anchor Investors, up to 60% discretionary allocation)

• Non-Institutional Investors (NII): Not less than 15% of Net Issue

• Retail Individual Investors (RII): Not less than 35% of Net Issue

• Market Maker Reservation: 3,40,800 equity shares

Utilisation of Net Proceeds

• Funding Capital Expenditure Requirements towards upgradation and last-mile funding of hotel Premises - ₹ 5,347.56 lakhs

• General Corporate Purposes

Offer Intermediaries

• Book Running Lead Manager: Unistone Capital Private Limited

• Registrar to the Offer: Bigshare Services Private Limited

Management Commentary

Mr. Mansur Mehta, Chairman and Managing Director of Suba Hotels Limited, said:
“Over the last two decades, we have built Suba into a trusted mid-market hospitality brand with a diversified portfolio across India’s key business and leisure hubs. With our asset-light model, global brand partnerships, and expansion into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, we are uniquely positioned for sustainable growth. The IPO will help us strengthen our balance sheet and accelerate our expansion plans.”

Mr. Mubeen Mehta, Chief Executive Officer, Suba Hotels Limited, commented:
"At Suba Hotels, our vision is to create a hospitality ecosystem that balances growth, innovation, and guest delight. With a strong pipeline of properties, focused investments in technology and loyalty programs, and a proven model across owned, leased, and managed formats, we are building scale with sustainability. This IPO marks not just a milestone for our company but also a commitment to our stakeholders to deliver consistent value while strengthening Suba’s position as one of India’s most trusted mid-market hospitality brands."

 Mr. Brijesh Parekh, Founder of Unistone Capital Private Limited, added:
“We are proud to partner with Suba Hotels Limited for their IPO journey. Suba Hotels is well-placed to capture India’s rising hospitality demand, especially in underserved Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets. Its strong multi-brand portfolio, proven ability to acquire and turnaround assets, and strategic international tie-ups make this IPO an attractive opportunity for investors.”

About Suba Hotels Limited

Incorporated in 1997, Suba Hotels Limited is a diversified hospitality company with operations across 88 hotels and 4,096 keys, spread across 50+ cities in India and overseas. The Company operates multiple brands, including Suba, Click, GenX, RnB, and international brands like Clarion, Comfort Inn, and Quality Inn under the exclusive master franchise agreement with Choice Hotels. Suba Hotels caters to a wide customer base spanning business, leisure, and religious tourism.

The Company has a proven track record of acquiring, upgrading, and profitably operating mid-market hotels through its asset-light model, while delivering attractive returns and exceptional guest experiences.

In FY25, the company achieved a Revenue of ₹7,924.32 lakhs, EBITDA of ₹2,327.12 lakhs with an EBITDA Margin of 29.09% and PAT of ₹1,515.14 lakhs with a PAT Margin of 18.94%.

Disclaimer:

Certain statements in this document that are not historical facts are forward looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties like government actions, local, political or economic developments, technological risks, and many other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by the relevant forward-looking statements. The Company will not be in any way responsible for any action taken based on such statements and undertakes no obligation to publicly update these forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

Lobby Goals: 5 Hotel Interiors That Will Make You Rethink Minimalism

As soon as you enter a hotel, the lobby tells you everything you will learn from now on. Although initially open space to sit and wait, the lobby is now big in everything it embraces - identity and intent. Minimalism, sometimes perceived as a rigid interpretation of design, and other times it symbolizes the culmination of aspiration and artistry in a building that recognizes its role somewhere in the middle. No longer hodgepodge and flamboyant, but rather functional and expressive, the new lobby now embodies concepts that balance, like function and artistry, and scale vs. intimacy. These five magnificent hotel interiors illustrate how less can in fact be more.

Al Habtoor Palace, Dubai: The lobby of Al Habtoor Palace is a stunning showcase of luxury, as part of the deluxe Al Habtoor City, and a representation of Dubai's unwavering taste for next-level extravagance. Al Habtoor Palace, which is designed in the Beaux-Arts style and is renowned for its royal hospitality and palatial touch, ushers visitors into the hotel with grand twin staircases, colossal marble pillars, and a magnificent chandelier that dominates the room. The décor is rife with understated details, along with live harp music, contributing to a certain majestic sensibility while simultaneously making the experience homey. The hotel embraces maximalism with its wealth of decor rather than minimalism, offering guests a first impression that feels nothing short of royal.

Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Habtoor City, Dubai 

The Ritz Paris, France: Entering The Ritz Paris immerses you into a gilded era of history, with crystal chandeliers, marble flooring, and antique furniture beaming Parisian spirit. This is maximalism at its best, where every ostentatious detail unfolds its own story. Ideally, The Ritz-Carlton lobbies globally took maximalism down a notch and took luxury to a modern iteration: lofty ceilings, modern marble, curated artwork, expansive racks of books, and contemporary yet simple grandeur that infuses serenity, versus overwhelming noise or agitation. The Ritz and The Ritz-Carlton collectively represent two angles of hospitality design; one that lays claim to a historically rich and luxurious era, and the other that embodies a contemporary sophistication of a luxurious lobby space. In both instances, a lobby is undeniably never just a corridor; a lobby is a destination!

Address: 13 Place Vendome, 75001 Paris

The Plaza Hotel, New York City: Walking into the lobby of The Plaza Hotel in New York City is an experience unto itself, and even the few steps are dynamic. The Plaza Hotel is a design masterpiece that contains an assortment of old-world elegance and new-world sophistication combined which makes it both a historical object and a modern one. The dropped chandeliers, ornate mosaics, and gilded finishes serve as reminders of its hospitality past, while the modern furnishings and subtle touches assist it in being relevant in the contemporary design world. The lobby transcends typical entry and lobby and is a destination where architecture, art, and atmospherics connect and happen. For design lovers, the lobby is a gallery of living styles that has inspiration at every turn and an actual lesson on what timeless luxury looks like.

Address: 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019

Marina Bay Sands, Singapore: The lobby of Marina Bay Sands, Singapore is as iconic as the skyline it sits beneath. With sky-high ceilings, full glass walls, and an interior with light pouring in, the lobby redefines minimalism outsize and outlandishly. The architecture, sleek yet modernist, is reminiscent of Singapore's forward-thinking identity while opening a window to the fusion of tranquillity and grandeur. The lobby is more than a corridor but rather a cultural space where luxury, modernity, and art reside together. Those who love design can't pass up this lobby, both an architectural feat and a representation of the city and its stature internationally.

Address: 10 Bayfront Avenue Singapore

The Leela Palace, Udaipur:  At The Leela Palace in Udaipur, the lobby is not simply a lobby but a stunning platform for royal architecture. Majestic domes, embellished jaali patterns, and exquisite hand-painted frescoes soar in every direction, while gorgeous views of Lake Pichola provide a calming counterpoint. The design embodies the spirit of Rajasthan’s royal past, and is modernized with luxurious accoutrements. It is more than a transition space, it is both a key architectural moment as well as a must-see for anyone looking to be inspired by design and craftsmanship.

Address: Lake, Pichola, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India

Today's luxury scenario demonstrates that the lobby is not a rest but a preamble. All of these interiors show that minimalism does not mean absence, but instead intentional elegance. By balancing grand with modest, hotels create spaces that are inclusive, impressive, and sustainable. Ultimately the modern lobby establishes a mood: less but better, and lasting impression.  

Atmosphere Core, in partnership with Pratyaksh Estates Private Limited, is delighted to announce the launch of a luxury boutique resort in southern Odisha

PRATYAKSH AN ATMOSPHERE EXPERIENCE CHANDRAGIRI will introduce the company to the scenic Eastern Ghats of Odisha, adding to the state’s attractions, often described as the “Best Kept Secrets of India”.

Bhubaneswa September 2025 — Atmosphere Core, in partnership with Pratyaksh Estates Private Limited, is delighted to announce the launch of a luxury boutique resort in southern Odisha, India. The new property, PRATYAKSH AN ATMOSPHERE EXPERIENCE CHANDRAGIRI, will open in the fourth quarter of 2027. Nestled in the valleys of the Eastern Ghats, the resort will be conveniently accessible from Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam, the capitals of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh.

Reflecting on Atmosphere Core’s growth, Founder and Group Managing Director, Mr Salil Panigrahi, noted, “As part of our dynamic expansion across India, a key focus is on developing premium experiences in scenic hill station destinations with cultural heritage connections. This upcoming resort in southern Odisha near Jirang Buddhist Monastery is carefully designed to cater to a diverse range of travellers. This is our effort to promote this beautiful destination and bring it to the global tourism map”.

Ms. Divyasnata Mohanty, Managing Director of Pratyaksh Estates Private Limited, stated, "Atmosphere Core’s legacy of excellence and luxury aligns closely with our vision to develop a world-class resort situated amidst the inspiring Chandragiri, fondly known as the Mini Tibet of India. Together, we are committed to crafting an ultra-luxurious sanctuary that reflects sophistication, grandeur, and authenticity. This partnership will not only elevate Odisha’s hospitality landscape but also shine a spotlight on Chandragiri as a truly inspiring global destination".

Operating under the distinguished “AN ATMOSPHERE EXPERIENCE” sub-brand, the resort will feature 90 keys, including cottages, suites, luxury tents, and villas. Guests will enjoy panoramic views of the Eastern Ghats, the Jirang Buddhist Monastery and surrounding greenery, creating a serene and immersive setting. 

The culinary offerings will include all-day dining with outdoor seating, a speciality restaurant serving Indian and Tibetan flavours, an in-house bakery, a lounge with a library, and a themed bar. Wellness facilities will centre around the award-winning ELE|NA Ayur Spa, offering tranquil therapy rooms, meditation and yoga decks with views of the monastery and mountains. Indoor and outdoor leisure activities will be curated for diverse experiences. For events, the resort will offer flexible indoor venues, expansive lawns, and dedicated boardrooms, making it a premier choice for corporate meetings, weddings, and social gatherings.

Chandragiri, around 250 km from Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam, is home to the Jirang Buddhist Monastery, inaugurated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 2010. One of the largest monasteries in Eastern India, it is a centre of Tibetan Buddhism and showcases traditional Tibetan architecture, vibrant murals, statues of Buddha, Padmasambhava, and other deities, a golden stupa, and prayer wheels. The region is also known for its verdant hills, Khasada Waterfall, and the scenic landscapes of the Eastern Ghats.

Mr. Souvagya Mohapatra, Managing Director of Atmosphere Core for India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan, said, “Odisha, especially southern Odisha, has always been key to our vision of creating iconic luxury experiences. Chandragiri, with its impressive Jirang Buddhist Monastery backdrop and lasting appeal, is a natural choice for our expansion. As plans for this destination unfold, I am confident this collaboration will redefine regional hospitality”.

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Powers Significant Expansion of ‘Series by Marriott’

Mumbai, 2025:  The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, is proud to announce strong response to its newest venture ‘Series by Marriott’, an exclusive brand collaboration with Marriott International. Since its launch, the strategic collaboration has witnessed an exceptional response from the Indian hospitality sector, with more than ten new independent hotel owners signing Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) in the first month alone.

In addition to the new signings, most of the hotel owners have expressed their confidence in the brand’s vision and are working towards transitioning their current properties and affiliating to the Series by Marriott brand.  This rapid uptake signals strong faith in the combined strength of The Fern’s sustainability-driven ethos and Marriott’s world-class standards of excellence.

The brand’s momentum was further reinforced at The Fern Day, celebrated during the prestigious Global Design & Development Confluence 2025, hosted by Marriott International. A major highlight of the event was the reveal of the Mock-Up Room, a model room showcasing The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Series by Marriott design philosophy. With a focus on sustainability and eco-conscious design elements, the room received overwhelming appreciation from developers, hoteliers and industry leaders alike.

Sharing his thoughts on this significant achievement, Rajeev Menon – President, Asia Pacific Excluding China, Marriott International said, “With most of the Fern Hotels across India set to join Marriott International’s portfolio, it is a powerful testament to the trust in Marriott’s brand strength, distribution network and world-class standards.  This also marks a significant leap for our company’s growth story in India, a nation that is set to be Marriott’s third largest market globally. Series by Marriott’s launch across India will underscore our growth strategy outside getaway cities and further highlight our ability to deliver value to owners and exceptional experiences to guests. Our collaboration with The Fern Hotels & Resorts is off to a fabulous start, and we are excited about the opportunities this will unlock in the years ahead”

Adding his thoughts, Mr Rahul Chaudhary - Managing Director & CEO, CG Corp Global and CG Hospitality Holdings said, “Our vision is to expand to 500 hotels in the next 5 years and we are already seeing strong momentum towards that goal after our collaboration with Marriott International.  This alliance brings together the best of global hospitality, excellence and The Fern’s deep rooted sustainability focus, creating a growth platform that benefits our guests, partners and communities”

Mr. Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, said, “The response we’ve received for The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Series by Marriott has surpassed all expectations. It is heartening to see such alignment between our commitment to sustainable hospitality and the industry's growing appetite for innovation, comfort and responsible design. We’re excited to grow this collaboration and expand our footprint across India.”

With a surge in interest and a pipeline of new collaborations already in motion, The Fern Hotels & Resorts is optimistic about the future as more hotels carry The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Series by Marriott flag. As the brand moves forward, it remains committed to delivering exceptional experiences rooted in sustainability, community and global hospitality standards.

Hotel Association of India introduces an Industry Mentoring Program structured for the hotel sector

Bold initiative to hone & nurture 100,000 hotel leaders to support India Tourism Vision 2047

New Delhi, 2025: The Hotel Association of India (HAI), the apex body representing the Indian hospitality industry, has unveiled a landmark initiative — an industry-first, structured mentorship platform designed exclusively for the hotel sector. This programme comes at a time when the industry is witnessing significant growth, especially in the tier-2 and tier-3 cities i.e., covering about 50 locations.

This initiative aims to address the widening talent gap in the Indian hotel sector and support its sustainable growth. The focus is on leadership development, career progression, organizational culture, and improving employee attraction towards the sector and their retention and engagement. A team of domain experts from HAI member hotels has designed the operational framework.

Hailing the initiative as a game-changer for the Indian tourism landscape,while launching the program, the Hon’ble Minister of Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said, “The Hotel Association of India’s innovative program marks a significant step towards establishing India as a global tourism powerhouse, with an ambitious goal of creating a USD 3 trillion tourism economy by 2047.” As the demand for tourism continues to surge, the need for talented and visionary leaders in hospitality has never been greater. This program will develop professionals prepared to lead the future of tourism and hospitality, setting a high standard that inspires excellence beyond our borders.”

KB Kachru, President, Hotel Association of India, Chairman - South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group added, “This is a one of its kind initiative by industry experts – rooted in the guru-shishya parampara, to provide expert mentorship, and inspire a lasting commitment to the future of hospitality leadership in India. The government and industry have set a target of creating around million branded hotel rooms to achieve the India Tourism vision 2047. This will require an addition of around 100,000 middle to senior management hotel managers to the existing pool."

HAI will work with its member hotels to adopt this programme and embed it into their brand culture, empowering future leaders and strengthening India’s position as a world-class hospitality destination.

Yatra launches DIYA: An advanced AI travel assistant offering end-to-end planning, booking & multilingual support

~ Complete trip planning, booking, and travel support in 100+ languages - all in one place~

National, 2025: Yatra Online Limited (Yatra), India’s leading online travel company, today announced the launch of DIYA, a state-of-the-art Generative AI-powered travel assistant that delivers an end-to-end experience, from trip inspiration to post-booking support, in over 100 languages.

Unlike traditional travel chatbots that focus only on planning or basic bookings options, DIYA is an advanced travel solution that combines complete trip creation, instant booking, post-booking management, and multilingual support into one seamless interface. Whether you are planning an international holiday, a weekend getaway, or simply need instant travel assistance, DIYA delivers fast, personalised, and accurate results.

Speaking on the launch, Manish Amin, Co-founder & CTO, Yatra Online Limited, said: “At Yatra, we are harnessing technology to make travel planning simpler, faster, and more personal. With DIYA, our AI-powered travel assistant, travellers can plan, book, and manage trips with instant, intuitive, multilingual support, available 24/7. From crafting itineraries and booking journeys to handling last-minute changes in your preferred language, DIYA is built for the way India travels today: fast, personal, and multilingual. It marks a major step forward in our mission to pair innovation with customer-first experience.”

Key Features of DIYA

• Complete Trip Planning: Plan entire journeys in one go. Find flights & hotels options in a single query with a detailed itinerary.

• Personalised filters: Search by airline, price, location, or preferences in the same conversation.

• Direct Booking Integration: Once satisfied with the suggestions, proceed to book without re-entering details

• Post-booking assistance: Cancel flights (even for individual passengers in multi-passenger bookings), check cancellation policies and charges, view upcoming trips, and generate e-tickets

• 100+ Language Support: Engage in your preferred language or script, including regional Indian languages

• Image Search & Landmark Insights: Upload a photo of a monument or location to identify it, uncover historical facts, myths, and legends, and get travel recommendations to visit

• Voice Search Enabled: Speak your request for faster results

• Personalised Travel Assistance for Yatra Customers: Cancel flights (including individual passengers from a multi-passenger booking), check cancellation policies, view upcoming bookings, generate e-tickets, and get answers to travel FAQs

“DIYA represents the culmination of years of work in AI architecture, natural language processing, and multilingual model optimisation. We’ve built a system that not only understands complex travel requests but can also act on them instantly, across 100+ languages, with cultural and contextual sensitivity. This is the kind of AI that doesn’t just answer questions—it anticipates traveller needs and solves them in real time,” said Dr. Shakti Goel, Chief Architect & Data Scientist at Yatra Online Limited.

The launch marks a significant leap in Yatra’s AI-led innovation roadmap, aiming to provide personalised, instant, and intuitive travel experiences for both domestic and international travellers.

DIYA is now live on the Yatra platform for both logged-in and guest users, making advanced travel planning accessible to everyone.

Real-world use case: A traveller can simply say, “Plan a trip to Prague from Delhi from Sept 10 for 7 days with visits to neighbouring countries, show me only Emirates flights, and hotels under ₹7,000 per night”  and DIYA will instantly create a complete plan, shortlist options, and allow direct booking, all in the language of the traveller’s choice.

Uttar Pradesh Opens Investment Gateway in Eco-Tourism

Uttar Pradesh Opens Investment Gateway in Eco-Tourism, Invites Partners to Run 11 World-Class Destinations

• UPETDB announces operations and maintenance bids for eco-tourism projects across 11 districts

• From lakes to waterfalls, heritage sites to floating restaurants, UP’s eco-tourism hubs ready for global investors

This is not just investment in eco-tourism, it is investment in sustainable journeys, local livelihoods, and Uttar Pradesh’s global tourism brand, says Jaiveer Singh

September 22nd, 2025: Signalling a bold step in sustainable tourism, the Uttar Pradesh Eco Tourism Development Board (UPETDB) has opened its doors for private investment, inviting bids for the operations and maintenance of 11 world-class eco-tourism destinations developed across the state.

Spanning Ayodhya, Chitrakoot, Ballia, Barabanki, Lalitpur, Banda, Jalaun, Kushinagar, Sitapur, Maharajganj, and Milkipur in Ayodhya district, these destinations bring together natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern eco-friendly infrastructure, positioning Uttar Pradesh as India’s emerging eco-tourism leader.

From a floating restaurant on the Saryu in Ayodhya to the majestic Pachanada confluence of five rivers in Jalaun, from Baghar Lake near Mahadeva Temple in Barabanki to the serene Sohrauna Tal in Kushinagar, and from Kalinjar Fort’s eco gateway in Banda to Kakrawal Waterfalls in Lalitpur—each project is designed to offer distinctive traveller experiences while creating high-value opportunities for investors. With amphitheatres, watch towers, cafés, wellness zones, cottages, boating facilities, craft markets, and cultural performance spaces already developed, the projects are investment-ready and primed to become signature eco-tourism attractions.

With Uttar Pradesh attracting 65 crore visitors in 2024, the state has emerged as India’s tourism powerhouse. These eco-tourism assets offer first-mover advantage in underexplored circuits where tourist footfall is rising rapidly. Backed by multiple revenue streams—including ticketing, boating, wellness retreats, cultural festivals, food courts, and souvenirs—and supported by a 15-year concession period extendable to 30 years, the projects combine sustainability with profitability.

“Uttar Pradesh is not only developing eco-tourism sites, it is creating destinations of pride and prosperity. These projects are designed to conserve nature, showcase our heritage, and at the same time, generate employment and empower local communities. I invite investors and operators to partner with us in shaping these sites into India’s most admired eco-tourism landmarks,” said Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh.

“These 11 destinations are a carefully curated mix of nature, heritage, and culture. Whether it is river confluences like Pachanada, spiritual wetlands like Sohrauna Tal near Kushinagar, or wellness escapes like Udhela Lake in Ayodhya, we have ensured that each site reflects both ecological sensitivity and tourism potential. Our goal is to position Uttar Pradesh as a global leader in responsible and experiential tourism,” said Prakhar Misra, Director (Eco), UP Tourism.

The model ensures inclusive growth by engaging local self-help groups, artisans, and youth in operations, strengthening community livelihoods alongside world-class tourist experiences.

Transparent e-tendering at etender.up.nic.in will allocate sites to the highest premium (H1) bidders, reinforcing credibility and openness in the process.

By transforming natural lakes, riversides, and heritage landscapes into sustainable destinations, Uttar Pradesh is making a clear statement: eco-tourism is not the future—it is the opportunity of today.

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Deepens Western India Footprint with New Launch in Solapur, Maharashtra

 The Fern Hotels & Resorts Announces the launch of The Fern Residency, Solapur

Mumbai, September 2025: The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, announces the launch of its latest property in Maharashtra - The Fern Residency, Solapur. Strategically located near Solapur Airport, the 54-room hotel offers contemporary accommodations, refined dining and comprehensive business facilities, catering to both corporate and leisure travellers. With this launch, the brand continues to expand its presence in Maharashtra with 40 properties in the state and continues to expand its national footprint, with 132 properties operational and opening shortly across India.

Mr. Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, remarked, “The Fern Residency, Solapur represents our commitment to enhancing access to quality hospitality in important tier-two and tier-three cities. Solapur’s rising prominence as a commercial and industrial centre makes it a natural choice for expansion. This hotel is designed to provide a seamless blend of modern functionality and guest comfort, aligning with our standards of sustainable and efficient hospitality.”

The hotel features 54 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, each equipped with contemporary amenities, ensuring a well-balanced stay experience for today’s discerning traveller. Mosiaco, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, offers guests a curated menu featuring a variety of global and regional cuisines. With its flexible layout, the restaurant is divided into three sections- an air-conditioned indoor space, an alfresco area and a private dining section, making it ideal for business lunches, family meals and casual dining. For added convenience, a 24/7 in-room dining service is available, with a dedicated night menu catering to late-hour requests.

The hotel also offers extensive event and meeting spaces including Elysain (3,000 sq. ft.) and Zoom (950 sq. ft.), accommodating a range of events such as conferences, social gatherings and corporate workshops. Each venue is equipped with modern infrastructure and flexible seating arrangements to suit various requirements. Additionally, guests have access to a well-equipped gymnasium.

Conveniently located just 3 km from Solapur Airport, 5 km from Solapur Railway Station and 7 km from the Interstate Bus Terminal, the hotel offers excellent connectivity. At 256 km from Pune, it serves as an ideal stop for regional and interstate travellers. Whether visiting for business, transit or leisure, The Fern Residency, Solapur offers a reliable and refined hospitality experience in one of Maharashtra’s fastest developing cities.

Ebix Travels Launches Revolutionary e-Visa Platform, Setting New Industry Benchmark for Travel Partners

New digital solution streamlines visa applications across 40+ destinations, eliminating paperwork and reducing processing delays

New Delhi, September 2025: Ebix Travel, India’s leading technology-driven travel ecosystem operating through Via.com (online) and Mercury Travels (offline), today announced the launch of its comprehensive Via e-Visa platform, designed to revolutionize the traditionally complex visa application process for travel partners and corporate clients across India. The new platform at Via.com addresses critical pain points in the B2B travel industry by offering a centralized visa solution that eliminates physical paperwork and enables travel partners to manage visa applications from anywhere to deliver faster & more reliable services to their customers.

The Via e-Visa platform equips travel partners, and corporate clients with a streamlined solution to manage visa applications. By simplifying documentation, removing intermediaries, and enabling direct submissions to embassies and consulates, the platform not only reduces costs but also enhances speed, transparency, and customer trust—giving partners a stronger competitive edge.

The Via e-Visa platform covers visa applications for over 40 destinations spanning Asia, Africa, Europe, and beyond, including key markets such as Australia, Japan, the UAE, Russia, Kenya, Malaysia, Morocco, and Thailand. This extensive coverage has been carefully curated to meet the immediate needs of Indian travellers, with plans already underway to expand to more destinations based on market demand and evolving travel patterns.

Commenting on the launch, Ankur Sharmaa, Chief Business Officer at Via.com (Ebix Travel) said: The introduction of the Via e-Visa platform is a milestone moment for Ebix Travel and for the travel industry in India. By combining technology with our deep-rooted partner network, we are creating a scalable, transparent, and highly reliable solution that directly addresses one of the biggest pain points in international travel. This innovation is central to our vision of empowering our travel partners and corporate clients while making global mobility more accessible and efficient for millions of Indians”

With the launch of the Via e-Visa platform, Ebix Travel continues to build on its commitment to reshape the travel experience through technology, innovation, and a partner-first approach, reinforcing its leadership position as a trusted travel solutions provider in India.

About Ebix Group

Ebix is a global leader in software and e-commerce solutions, operating across six continents and serving industries such as insurance, financial services, travel, healthcare, and e-learning. Its expertise includes advanced insurance and reinsurance exchanges, SaaS-based CRM platforms, front- and back-end systems, outsourced administration, and risk and compliance solutions.

With a legacy dating back to 1976, founded as Delphi Information Systems; rebranded as Ebix in 2003, the Group today operates from more than 50 offices worldwide, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Latin America, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, the Far East, and India. In June 2024, Ebix entered a new era when it was acquired by Eraaya Lifespaces, a leading lifestyle and hospitality group.

Relocating its global headquarters from Atlanta to India, Ebix leverages India’s rich technology and talent base to drive innovation while combining global expertise with a strong India backbone. The Group operates across four key verticals in India: Ebix Payments, Ebix Technologies, Ebix Travel, and Ebix Next, serving millions of clients and consumers worldwide.

Ingredient Ideology | The Eggplant Trivia By: Dr. Kaviraj Khialani- Celebrity Master Chef.

A nutrient rich vegetable, numerous benefits to offer us, it has a number of names attached to it and ways of working with this natural beauty laced vegetable has been with us since a very long time now, while most of us in India call it as Baingan and Vangi its varieties, sizes, shapes and names have found their place in several countries and in number of cuisines as well.

While it has been called Eggplant in the United States, Aubergine in England, the Italians fondly call it Melanzana, Arabic cuisine calls is Badinjan and the word Brinjal comes from the influence of the Portuguese. It is one ingredient most of us enjoy having in our meals once in a while and its adaptability in our recipes has been much appreciated by a number of food connoisseurs.

Eggplant has been regarded as a member of the night shade family which means that both the fruit and the flower of the plant are considered edible. The word has become synonymous with the shape that looks like egg hence all those having a roundish oval shape to them would be addressed as eggplants!

We get brinjal in various shapes like the big bhartha variety used for making our all-time roasted flavoured baingan ka bhartha, the others include the long elongated ones, and the third category being the round or oval shaped eggplants. However, we also get white, light green, light purple and dark purple varieties as well in brinjal and each one of them has a unique character and role to attach when it gets ready to be dished out.

Health Benefits of Eggplants:

• They are high in iron content hence ideal to be included in our diets, also considered heart healthy.

• They assist in weight management, ideal to include in our weight watchers diet.

• Brinjal is considered good for our hair, skin tone, bone health.

• Eggplant is rich in fiber content and helps regulate cholesterol levels in our body.

• They are helpful in treating anaemia and should be consumed in healthy ways to secure its positivity.

• Brinjal is also regarded as an immunity boosting ingredient and vegetable with easy to use features.

• Aubergines also help remove any toxic build ups in our system and assist in flushing them out.

• Brinjal helps in our digestive system and also keeps our mind going healthy, it is also high in water content and moisture.

*Why do Eggplants discolour or go brown when we cut them?

A very commonly raised query by people and the simple reason being that since they are high in iron content, when we cut them they start oxidising as they get in touch with the outside oxygen in the air.

Some of the ways to ward off the browning or change in color of eggplants and to reduce the ph level is to use salt, vinegar or lime juice when we cut them, either place them in a bowl of water with salt in it or we can also add a few drops of lime juice/vinegar while they are being cooked.

CULINARY USES OF EGGPLANTS:

The most popular recipe in our Indian kitchen remains baingan ka bhartha, an awesome yummy and robust flavor which tells us much before that its cooking up!

• We also use it in making pakodas, bhajiyas, just having them fried with dry spices, baingan cutlets, brinjal patties etc as well.

• Baked aubergines with tomato sauce, cheese and herbs, stuffed eggplants with mincemeat, soy keema, tofu scramble.

• Bhagara baingan, Achari baingan ki subzi, baingan mussallam, baingan aloo, bharli vangi, masale bhaath, baingan ka pulao, stuffed baby brinjal with peanut, coconut and til ka masala.

• Taking it to the international kitchens we have it in a batter fried from the French kitchen called as brinjal beignets, the Chinese love it stir fried with combination of sauces and sesame oil and seeds.

• The Japanese would do them in their batter coated preparation called tempura which would be batter fried and served with variety of dips, sauces, wasabi etc.

• The Italians love making melanzana parmigiana, their most popular brinjal recipe, sliced, layered, fresh garlic & tomato sauce, herbs, parmesan cheese and olives, baked to perfection.

• Arabic cooking uses badinjan in curries and gravies called marag, rice preparations, and also in their mezze platter with dips like Baba Ganoush and muttabbal which use roasted eggplant.

• Brinjal also taste good when we lightly marinate them and grill them/pan fry them with spices/ add them to stir fry dishes/ toppings on bruschettas/ with sun-dried tomato and garlic as a pizza topping as well.

Here are a couple of ,easy-to-make, interesting Recipes with Eggplants:

Recipe-1] Baked Eggplant Roll Ups in Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

Long elongated eggplants- 200gms, sliced vertically.

For the stuffing:

Oil- 2 tbsp.

Chopped Garlic- 1 tbsp.

Chopped Onions- 1 medium size.

Fresh tomatoes- 2 cups puree

Salt and pepper to taste

Mixed herbs- 1 tsp

Chili flakes- 1 tsp

Soy keema/ chicken keema- 1 cup

Green peas- ½ cup boiled

Garam masala powder- 1 tsp

Water/stock as needed

Grated cheese- ½ cup

Chopped parsley/coriander- 2 tbsp.

Lime juice- 1 tbsp.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the recipe.

2. Apply salt and little olive oil on the sliced brinjal and lightly grill them in a pan/non-stick tava for 2-3 mins.

3. Heat oil add in half of the garlic, onions, add in the tomato puree, salt, herbs, chili flakes, mix well simmer for 10 -12 mins, add little white wine if desired, keep it aside.

4. In a separate pan, heat little oil/butter saute the remaining garlic and onions, add in the soaked soy keema or chicken mince and green peas, salt and garam masala powder and saute it well, add a tsp of maida if it leaves too much water and continue cooking on a low flame, add little water and little of the tomato sauce as prepared above to cook the mixture- also add additional veggies of your choice as needed.

5. To assemble the dish finally, in a baking tray /dish place the tomato sauce at the base, roll up the keema filling in between each brinjal slice, roll them up one by one place it in the tray top with grated cheese, cover with a foil and bake it in a pre-heated oven at 180 Deg Celsius for 12-15 mins, later open it brown the cheese from the top/can also be made on a low flame covered and cooked on the gas as well and serve hot garnish with greens/olives and serve with garlic bread.

 Recipe-2] NUTTY AUBERGINE DIP

Ingredients

Big brinjal for roasting- 400 gms, roast, peel, chop

For the dip:

Olive oil- 2- 3 tbsp.

Tahini paste- 2 tbsp.- white sesame seed paste

Chopped garlic- 1 tsp.

Chopped onion-1/2cup

Chopped green chilies- 1 tsp

Chopped coriander -2 tbsp.

Boiled chickpea/rajma/ chauli beans- ½ cup puree with the roasted eggplant with little chilled water.

Salt and pepper to taste

White wine-2 tbsp. optional.

Chat masala-1/2 tsp

Roasted crushed jeera-1/2 tsp

Lime juice-2 tbsp.

Mint leaves-10-12 

Black and green olives- 4-5 no

Roasted crushed peanuts/ almonds/ pine nuts- 2 tbsp.

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the dip

2. In a pan heat up the oil, add in the garlic, chilies, onions and saute until light pink, add in the eggplant and bean mash.

3. Add salt and pepper, herbs and chili flakes to taste, white wine if desired, cook on a low flame for 3-4 mins stir well.

4. Remove from the flame and add in the tahini, lime juice, chat masala, coriander, mint, olives and mix, cool and serve it warm or chilled with snacks/chips/skewered grilled prawns/chicken/paneer/mushrooms/roast potatoes etc.

Recipe- 3] EGGCITING STUFFED EGGPLANTS

Ingredients

Big brinjal- 450gms, cut them half vertically, scoop them out, chop up the inside flesh, salt the cups and deep fry them/oven roast them with little oil and keep aside.

For the egg and veg stuffing:

Oil- 2 tbsp.

Onions- 2 small chop

Tomatoes-2 med size chop

Green chilies- 2-3 chop

Salt and pepper to taste

Eggs- 4- 5 no

Green peas- ½ cup boiled.

Chopped red/yellow capsicums- ½ cup

Boiled sweet corn- ½ cup

Garam masala powder-1 tsp

Red chili powder- ½ tsp

Dhaniya jeera powder- ½ tsp

Schezuan sauce- 2 tbsp.

Tomato ketchup- 2 tbsp.

Cheese- ¼ cup grated 

Coriander leaves- 2 tbsp.

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Prepare all the ingredients for the recipe.

2. Heat oil add in the onions, chilies and saute well, add in the scooped chopped brinjal flesh, salt, tomatoes, spices and saute well.

3. Add in the peas, corn and peppers and saute well, simmer for 3-4 mins and cook well.

4. Now add in the eggs scramble them well and make it like a bhurji concept/ in place of eggs we can also use soft textured tofu or paneer as well for a variation.

5. Check for seasonings, add in schezuan sauce, tomato sauce and mix well, stuff the pre-cooked brinjal cups and top with cheese and bake in a pre-heated oven at 180 Deg Celsius for 12-15 mins.

6. Remove and serve hot garnished with olives/herbs etc along with toasties/herbed focaccia bread.

Brief about the writer:

Dr. Kaviraj Khialani- celebrity master chef is a Mumbai based hospitality and culinary consultant, he has been awarded on national and global platforms for his creative ideas with food and education sector for the hospitality industry. He comes with over two decades plus of quality experience and is specialised in over 33 international cuisines.

Chef kaviraj is a renowned author, writer, food designer, critic and has also been featured on several food shows on star plus and colors television.

Why the Victorinox Swiss Classic Knife Set Should Be Your Next Kitchen Upgrade

Let's be honest, whether you're running a bustling hotel kitchen or perfecting your knife skills at home, the right tools make all the difference. And when it comes to knives that deliver professional-grade performance without the eye-watering price tag, the Victorinox Swiss Classic Knife Set has earned its reputation as the go-to choice for both seasoned chefs and culinary newcomers alike.

If there's one thing I've learned from talking to countless F&B managers and executive chefs over the years, it's this: you don't need to spend a fortune to get reliable, sharp, and durable knives that can handle everything from prep work to presentation. The Swiss Classic series proves that point beautifully.

The Sweet Spot Between Quality and Value

Here's what caught my attention about this particular knife set, it's that rare find that doesn't force you to choose between quality and affordability. At around $99.99 for the complete 6-piece set, you're getting Swiss-made precision that would typically cost three times as much from other premium brands.

The set includes everything you need to tackle most kitchen tasks: an 8-inch chef's knife (your workhorse), an 8-inch carving knife for those perfect slices, a 3.25-inch paring knife for detailed work, straight and wavy edge knives for bread and delicate items, plus a universal peeler that actually works without frustration. It's like having a complete toolkit that fits every cooking scenario you'll encounter.

Swiss Craftsmanship That Actually Matters

When Victorinox says "Swiss-made," they're not just slapping a fancy label on mass-produced cutlery. Each blade starts as a single sheet of high-carbon stainless steel, then goes through a meticulous process of hardening, tempering, grinding, polishing, and finishing, all done by skilled craftsmen in Switzerland.

What does this mean for you? Blades that hold their edge longer, resist staining, and can be resharpened over and over again thanks to Victorinox's special tempering process. For hospitality professionals dealing with high-volume prep work, this translates to less downtime for sharpening and more consistent results plate after plate.

The lifetime warranty against defects isn't just marketing speak, it's Victorinox backing up their confidence in what they've created. In an industry where equipment takes a beating, having that kind of guarantee means something.

Ergonomics That Your Hands Will Thank You For

Anyone who's spent hours in a kitchen knows the difference ergonomic handles make. The Swiss Classic series features the same Fibrox handle inspiration used in Victorinox's professional line, the ones preferred by chefs worldwide, but adapted for both commercial and home use.

These contoured nylon handles are surprisingly lightweight yet incredibly durable. More importantly, they're designed to minimize wrist tension during those marathon prep sessions. The slip-resistant grip means fewer accidents, and the NSF-approved design with minimal crevices makes them easy to sanitize, crucial for maintaining food safety standards in any professional setting.

For F&B managers training new kitchen staff, these knives are forgiving enough for beginners while still delivering the precision experienced cooks expect. It's that perfect middle ground where learning happens without compromising results.

Versatility That Covers All Your Bases

The beauty of this knife set lies in its comprehensive coverage of kitchen tasks. That 8-inch chef's knife? It's your everything tool, from breaking down proteins to julienning vegetables, from crushing garlic to transferring ingredients to the pan. The blade geometry is spot-on for both rocking and chopping techniques.

The carving knife ensures those uniform slices that make all the difference in presentation, whether you're portioning roasts for banquet service or creating that perfect charcuterie board for guests. And that paring knife handles all the detail work, deveining shrimp, hulling strawberries, creating garnishes that add that final touch of elegance.

What really impressed me is how the straight and wavy edge knives complement each other. The straight blade tackles crusty artisan breads without crushing the crumb, while the wavy edge glides through delicate tomatoes and soft fruits without the mess. For breakfast service or sandwich stations, this combination is pure efficiency.

Low Maintenance, High Performance

Here's where the Swiss Classic really shines for busy kitchens, these knives are fully dishwasher safe. Yes, you read that right. While knife purists might cringe, the reality is that commercial kitchens need equipment that can handle high-volume washing cycles without losing performance.

This doesn't mean you should throw knife care out the window, but it does mean you have options when time is tight. Hand washing is still ideal, but knowing you can run these through the dishwasher during peak service without damaging them is incredibly practical.

Perfect for Professional Development

For hospitality professionals at any stage of their career, these knives offer something valuable: a platform for skill development without the stress of potentially damaging expensive equipment. New line cooks can practice their knife cuts without worrying about ruining a $300 blade, while experienced chefs appreciate the consistent performance during service.

The balance and weight distribution make proper knife technique easier to learn and maintain. I've seen too many promising culinary students struggle with poorly designed knives that fight against good form. The Swiss Classic series actually helps develop proper technique rather than hindering it.

Applications Across Hospitality Operations

Whether you're outfitting a new hotel kitchen, upgrading your restaurant's knife inventory, or setting up a catering operation, this knife set adapts to various operational needs:

Executive Chef Kitchens: Reliable backup knives for high-volume service Catering Operations: Lightweight, efficient tools for off-site events
Training Kitchens: Forgiving yet professional knives for culinary education Banquet Prep: Consistent performance for large-scale food preparation Room Service: Compact, versatile tools for limited-space kitchens

The Real-World Test

I've spoken with several executive chefs who keep Swiss Classic knives as their "workhorse" blades: the ones they reach for when they need reliable performance without babying expensive cutlery. One F&B director at a busy resort told me these knives handle everything from morning breakfast prep to late-night room service orders without missing a beat.

The key is setting realistic expectations. These aren't heirloom pieces you'll pass down to your grandchildren, but they're solid, dependable tools that will serve you well for years. They're the reliable friend in your knife roll: always ready, never temperamental, and consistently delivering good results.

Making the Upgrade Decision

If you're currently working with dull, poorly designed, or mismatched knives, the improvement will be immediate and noticeable. The Swiss Classic set provides that cohesive kitchen experience where each tool complements the others, creating a workflow that just makes sense.

For those upgrading from basic home knives to something more professional, this set bridges that gap perfectly. You'll get a taste of what quality cutlery can do without the intimidation factor of ultra-premium brands.

The Victorinox Swiss Classic Knife Set represents that sweet spot where Swiss precision meets practical accessibility. Whether you're running a kitchen brigade or perfecting your culinary skills at home, these knives deliver the performance and reliability that turn cooking from a chore into a craft.

In a world where kitchen equipment often forces you to choose between quality and budget, the Swiss Classic series proves you can have both: and that's exactly why it should be your next kitchen upgrade.

The Hospemag Edge: Turning Industry Professionals into Thought Leaders

Let's be honest: becoming a recognized thought leader in hospitality isn't just about knowing your stuff. It's about having the right platform, the right stories, and the right connections to amplify your voice. And that's exactly where Hospemag comes in.

We've spent years building something special: a platform that doesn't just report on the industry: it actively shapes it by turning passionate hospitality professionals into the voices that matter. Whether you're a chef with revolutionary ideas, a hotel manager with innovative guest experience strategies, or a PR professional looking to elevate your clients, we've cracked the code on thought leadership development.

What Makes a Hospitality Thought Leader?

Before diving into how we do it, let's talk about what real thought leadership looks like in our industry. It's not about having the fanciest title or working at the biggest hotel chain (though those don't hurt). True thought leadership is about having something meaningful to say and knowing how to say it in a way that resonates.

Take someone like Chef Shriram Rajendran, who we featured in one of our exclusive interviews. He didn't become a thought leader overnight: it was through sharing his unique perspective on culinary innovation and sustainability that he built his reputation. The magic happened when we gave him the platform to tell his story authentically.

That's the thing about thought leadership in hospitality: it's deeply personal. Every professional has a unique journey, a different lens through which they view the industry. Our job at Hospemag is to help you discover that unique angle and then amplify it to the right audience.

The Hospemag Approach: Beyond Traditional Media

What sets us apart from other hospitality publications? We don't just report on what's happening: we create conversations that shape what happens next. Our approach to building thought leaders is multi-faceted and, frankly, pretty exciting.

Exclusive Interview Platform: Our exclusive interviews section isn't just another Q&A format. We dive deep into the minds of industry innovators, exploring not just what they do, but why they do it and what they see coming next. When Aman Talreja shared his insights on operational excellence, it wasn't just an interview: it became a masterclass that other professionals reference.

Career Milestone Coverage: We understand that every promotion, every new appointment is an opportunity to build thought leadership. When we covered Henna Punjabi's appointment as Director of Public Relations and Communications at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai, we didn't just announce it: we explored what her vision means for the future of hospitality PR.

Industry Trend Analysis: Through features like our coverage of The Best Chef Awards 2024, we provide context and commentary that helps professionals understand not just what's happening, but what it means for their careers and the industry.

Real Stories, Real Impact

Let me share something that gets me genuinely excited: the transformation we see in professionals who engage with our platform. Take Amar Nath Pandey, whose interview with us opened doors to speaking opportunities and industry recognition he never expected.

Or consider Chef Hardeep Singh, who used his feature story as a springboard to launch his own culinary consulting practice. These aren't just feel-good stories: they're proof that the right platform can accelerate thought leadership in ways that surprise even us.

The beauty of working with Hospemag is that we don't just publish your content and move on. We create evergreen resources that continue working for you long after publication. Vinayak Patnekar's interview from months ago still generates inquiries and collaboration requests.

For PR Professionals: Your Secret Weapon

If you're in PR, you know the challenge: getting your clients noticed in a crowded marketplace. Traditional press releases get lost in the noise, but thought leadership content? That cuts through.

We've worked with PR agencies to transform their clients from name-droppers to name-makers. When Saba Dhanani was elevated to Corporate Head Marketing and Communications at Sayaji Hotels, we didn't just cover the appointment: we explored her strategic vision for hospitality marketing in the digital age.

That's the Hospemag difference for PR professionals: we help you build narratives that position your clients as industry experts, not just service providers.

For Brands: Beyond Traditional Marketing

Brands are realizing that authentic thought leadership drives more meaningful engagement than traditional advertising. When your executives become recognized thought leaders, your brand benefits from association with their expertise.

We've seen hotels transform their market positioning through strategic thought leadership development. Arunkumar Raman's insights on operational efficiency didn't just showcase his expertise: they positioned his organization as an innovation leader in the space.

The ripple effect is remarkable. One well-crafted thought leadership piece can lead to speaking opportunities, partnership inquiries, and yes, business development opportunities that traditional marketing rarely achieves.

The Content That Counts

Not all content creates thought leaders. We've learned what works: stories that reveal process, insights that challenge conventional thinking, and perspectives that offer practical value to other professionals.

Chef Sana Khan's feature worked because she didn't just talk about her dishes: she shared her philosophy on sustainable sourcing and its business impact. Mayank Prasad's interview resonated because he offered actionable insights on team management that other leaders could immediately implement.

That's our editorial sweet spot: content that educates, inspires, and provides genuine value to the hospitality community.

The Network Effect

Here's something that might surprise you: thought leadership isn't a solo journey. The professionals who work with us become part of a community of industry innovators. Amandeep Sharma connected with other featured professionals and ended up collaborating on industry initiatives.

This network effect amplifies thought leadership exponentially. When you're featured on Hospemag, you're not just reaching our readers: you're connecting with other thought leaders who can amplify your message across their networks.

Beyond the Article: Long-term Thought Leadership Strategy

We don't just publish and pray. We work with professionals to develop long-term thought leadership strategies that build on each piece of content. Rajan Sethi's journey from featured interview to industry speaker to consultant happened because we helped him see the bigger picture.

Our approach includes:

• Strategic content planning that builds on previous pieces
• Cross-platform promotion that maximizes reach
• Connection facilitation with other industry leaders
• Speaking opportunity identification and support

Ready to Make Your Mark?

If you're reading this and thinking, "I have something valuable to share with the industry," you're probably right. The hospitality industry needs more authentic voices, more innovative perspectives, and more leaders willing to share their expertise.

Whether you're a seasoned executive with decades of experience or an emerging professional with fresh ideas, Hospemag can help you find your thought leadership voice and amplify it to the right audience.

The transformation from industry professional to thought leader doesn't happen overnight, but with the right platform and strategy, it happens faster than you might think. And honestly? Watching that transformation is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do.

Ready to explore what's possible? Visit Hospemag and let's start a conversation about your thought leadership journey. Because in an industry built on hospitality, shouldn't we be hosting the conversations that matter most?

Please connect with Ms Ritika +91 72639 19682 or email her at outreach@hospemag.me

Sterling Launches Sterling Hibis Vellore – A Resort-Style Escape for Business & Leisure

• Sterling’s First Resort in Vellore

• Strengthens presence with 9th resort in Tamil Nadu

• A Destination for Pilgrims, Medical Visitors, Families, and Corporate Retreats

Sterling Holiday Resorts announced the opening of Sterling Hibis Vellore, a 40-key resort located on a lush 5.3-acre estate just off Tiruvannamalai Road. This marks Sterling’s entry into Vellore and adds a unique bleisure destination to its growing national portfolio.

Positioned at the crossroads of pilgrimage, healthcare, education, and commerce, Sterling Hibis Vellore caters to a diverse spectrum of travellers—from devotees visiting the famed Golden Temple at Sripuram, to families exploring the historic Vellore Fort, to medical and academic visitors bound for CMC and VIT, and corporates seeking a retreat-style venue in the city. 

Guests can also extend their holiday circuits with nearby Sterling resorts – Sterling Yelagiri and Sterling Arunai Anantha Tiruvannamalai combining spiritual, cultural, and leisure experiences.

The resort features 36 Classic Rooms and 4 Suites, blending modern comforts with a villa-style layout. Dining experiences are anchored by Orchid Restaurant, which showcases Arcot Nawabi heritage flavours alongside global cuisines, and Iris Bar, a vibrant lounge offering signature cocktails and light bites. A full-service spa, fitness centre, and a 2,500 sq. ft. swimming pool with a kids’ section add leisure indulgence to the stay.

For events, Sterling Hibis Vellore offers a Grand Banquet Hall accommodating 150 guests and an expansive party lawn for up to 600, making it a sought-after choice for weddings, social celebrations, and corporate offsites.

“Sterling Hibis Vellore embodies our vision of offering urban travellers the best of both worlds—a tranquil resort setting within city limits, tailored equally for leisure and business. From pilgrims and medical visitors to families and corporates, this property is designed to meet every need with warmth and authenticity,” said Vikram Lalvani, MD & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts.

“Partnering with Sterling for Hibis Vellore allows us to bring an international standard of resort hospitality to the city. With its villa-style rooms, expansive lawns, and wellness amenities, thisproperty sets a new benchmark in Vellore, appealing to both local gatherings and visiting travellers,” said Mr. Prabu Ramalingam, Managing Director, Dolphin Ecco Resort Hotels.

Sterling Hibis Vellore is well-connected, just 3 hours from Chennai Airport, 20 minutes from Vellore Cantt Railway Station, and 30 minutes from Katpadi Junction. The resort joins Sterling’s strong presence across Tamil Nadu, complementing its resorts in Ooty, Kodaikanal, Yelagiri, Madurai, Tiruvannamalai, and Yercaud

Sanskriti se Samriddhi: Where Tradition Meets Innovation at the 24th Chandiwala Hospitality Ensemble- 2025.

Chandiwala hospitality ensemble, the mega event of bcihmct, has grown over the past 25 years into a national platform that celebrates culinary brilliance and hospitality talent. Supported by leading hotels, hospitality organizations, and academic institutions across the country, CHE has become a hallmark of creativity, skill, and innovation in the world of hospitality education. The Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology, New Delhi, proudly announces the 24th edition of the Chandiwala Hospitality Ensemble (CHE), to be held from October 15 to 17, 2025.

This year, the Ensemble is centered around the inspiring theme “Sanskriti se Samriddhi” which underlines the idea that true prosperity lies in embracing and celebrating India’s cultural and traditional roots. The theme highlights how the wealth of our nation—both in spirit and in industry—emerges from its cultural heritage, regional traditions, and culinary diversity. This event  amalgamates the various qualities of Ek Bharat Shreshth Bharat, making it a true testimony to this vision that will eventually make our nation great once again. Through this celebration, the Ensemble urges young hoteliers to connect deeply with India’s rich legacy and translate it into sustainable, innovative practices that will define the hospitality industry of tomorrow.

Over three days, students from across India will engage in competitions that bring alive the colors and flavors of the nation. One of the event, Millet Culinary Challenge 2025 focuses on reviving millet innovation with traditional recipes while reimagining them for modern palates. BCIHMCT strongly promotes the use of millets as a step towards healthier lifestyles, sustainable food systems, and the revival of India’s ancient heritage. The Regional Indian Cuisine Challenge and Regional Indian Drinks Challenge will restore long celebrated recipes and beverages from diverse states, while contests like Biryani competition, Zone Barwizard Challenge, Future Chef Contest, Taj Hospitality Brain Twister 2025, will showcase the creative innovation of the next generation of hoteliers. Adding to the vibrancy will be artistic showcases such as Chandiwala Floral Decoration and Towel Origami, reaffirming the deep connection between Indian culture and the aesthetics of hospitality.

Institutes and colleges from across the country are invited to take part in this prestigious event, with each institution allowed to nominate up to seven participants accompanied by a faculty member. With registrations capped at thirty institutes, early participation is highly encouraged. The 24th Chandiwala Hospitality Ensemble 2025 promises to be a celebration of culture, cuisine, and creativity—where Sanskriti truly leads to Samriddhi. Join us at BCIHMCT, New Delhi, to witness hospitality’s future leaders rise with innovation, rooted in tradition.

Young Entrepreneurs Start-up Fest 2025

Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management and Catering Technology (BCIHMCT) organized the Young Entrepreneurs Start-up Fest 2025, a vibrant showcase of student talent, creativity, and innovation. The event, held under the Department of Developing Innovation, Culture and Entrepreneurship (DICE), provided students with a hands-on platform to transform their ideas into real business ventures.

The fest featured 12 unique stalls, each conceptualized and managed by students. From food and beverages to lifestyle and wellness, the stalls reflected originality, sustainability, and entrepreneurial vision. Junction-e-Jalwa dazzled with flaming Indian desserts, while Humaribagiya  promoted eco-friendly living with handcrafted planters. Food enthusiasts enjoyed comfort bites at Drizzling Flavours and health-packed indulgences at Healthy Bites and  COCOME. Love-It and Layers of Frosting impressed with sustainable bakery treats, and Feet & Treat introduced a novel wellness concept combining nutrition with relaxation therapies.

Other highlights included SaMeFlavours, serving live pasta and cold coffee, and Big Booze, which promoted non-alcoholic mocktails as stylish party alternatives. Sip’n’Chip allowed personalized snack creations, while Masakli offered handcrafted jewelry with a storytelling touch. Nivala by Nandini closed the circle with preservative-free cookies made from natural ingredients, emphasizing mindful eating.

The event was more than a display of products; it was an immersive entrepreneurial experience where students handled ideation, branding, execution, and customer interaction. Chandiwala students have proved that actual research is creating your product—when ideas turn into reality through innovation and execution.

The overwhelming success generated excitement for future editions, reaffirming BCIHMCT’s commitment to nurturing innovation, entrepreneurship, and future leaders of the hospitality industry.

Gunjan Foundation’s ‘दस्तक - ए- ददल’ Brings Kabir Café Live to Delhi to Support Education for Marginalized Children

New Delhi, September 2025 — Gunjan Foundation, a leading NGO dedicated to empowering underprivileged  children through education for over 20 years, announces its much-awaited annual fundraiser event,  “दस्तक - ए- ददल”. This year’s soulful celebration will feature Neeraj Arya’s Kabir Café, the acclaimed  Mumbai-based band known for blending Kabir’s timeless poetry with folk, rock, and fusion rhythms. 

The concert will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at Kamani Auditorium, New Delhi, and  will be hosted by renowned journalist and anchor Ms. Richa Anirudh. 

Founded in 2004, Gunjan Foundation runs two flagship scholarship programs—Gunjan-Sashakt (school education) and Gunjan-Utkarsh (higher education)—which have benefited over 2,300  students to date. With chapters in Jaipur and Ahmedabad and its main office in Delhi, the  Foundation continues to break barriers to education, especially for girls. 

“This event is not just a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of our shared commitment to building a better,  more equitable future for every child,” said Ms. Sushma Singhvi, Founder of Gunjan Foundation.  “We invite everyone to join hands with us, enjoy an evening of music and poetry, and help transform  lies through education.” 

Proceeds from दस्तक - ए- ददल will directly support the Foundation’s core education programs. Event Details: 

• Date: October 1, 2025 

• Time: 6:00 PM 

• Venue: Kamani Auditorium, New Delhi 

• Tickets: BookMyShow Link 

About Gunjan Foundation 

Gunjan Foundation is a registered non-governmental organization working since 2004 to provide  quality education to marginalized children and youth across India. Through its scholarship programs  that support both school and higher education, the Foundation has enabled over 2,300 students to  pursue their dreams and lead empowered lives. 

IHG Hotels & Resorts signs Holiday Inn Siliguri, bringing world-class hospitality to the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas

The 111-key hotel will cater to rising demand from MICE events, business travellers, and leisure guests in Eastern Province

India, September 2025:  IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, has signed a management agreement for Holiday Inn Siliguri, in partnership with  Four Vedas Hotels & Resorts Private Limited, a joint venture between Kaysons Group, Sagar Group and Golden Goenka Group. Located in West Bengal, India, and slated to open in 2027, the upcoming hotel underscores IHG’s commitment to strengthening presence in high-potential secondary markets across India.

Situated at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, Siliguri is a vital commercial gateway for North-East India, connecting the region to the rest of the country. The city also serves as a strategic trade corridor with Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan, making it a thriving hub for cross-border commerce, logistics, and transport. This unique positioning ensures strong business and leisure demand for international-branded hotels in the region.

With more than 1,200 open hotels worldwide, Holiday Inn has consistently evolved to meet the needs of today’s travellers, earning a reputation as one of the world’s most loved and trusted hospitality brands. Embodying the brand’s next-generation standards, Holiday Inn Siliguri will feature the brand’s transformative Open Lobby concept, designed as a versatile social hub where guests can dine, work, or unwind in a seamless environment. Strategically located in Siliguri’s city centre, the hotel is poised to capture demand from the city’s growing MICE sector, business hubs, and leisure tourism.

Commenting on the signing, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are delighted to announce the signing of Holiday Inn Siliguri, further strengthening our mainstream portfolio in India. Siliguri’s significance as a commercial and transit hub, along with its growing prominence in trade and MICE, makes it an ideal location for us to open a hotel. With its modern design, versatile offerings, and the trusted hospitality IHG is known for, the hotel will be a key addition to our expanding network in India.”

Speaking on behalf of Four Vedas Hotel and Resorts Pvt. Ltd, Mr. Pradip Agarwal, Managing Director, Kaysons Group, Mr. Anil Goyal, Managing Director, Sagar Group, Mr. Girdhari Lal Goenka, Manging Director, Golden Goenka Group, commented in a joint statement: “We are proud to partner with IHG Hotels & Resorts to bring the globally renowned Holiday Inn brand to Siliguri. With IHG’s strong brand equity, operational expertise, and international standards, we are confident that Holiday Inn Siliguri will redefine hospitality in the city and emerge as a preferred choice for travellers.”

Holiday Inn Siliguri will feature 111 rooms, three dining options, two flexible meeting venues, and a fitness centre. The new hotel will serve a wide spectrum of guests, from corporate and MICE travellers to leisure tourists exploring the Himalayan foothills.

Where to Go When You Want to Do Nothing: 6 Resorts to Celebrate JOMO

We live in a world addicted to hustle, deadlines, and digital noise, and amidst the chaos, we all have FOMO at times. What we seek at the end of the day is a space where we just feel joy of missing out (JOMO), where the goal is to exhale, as there is a quiet joy in doing nothing. JOMO is about stepping back, switching off, and letting yourself breathe, without feeling guilty about it. If you’re craving quiet places where the pace slows and pressure fades, these six handpicked resorts offer just that.

Tucked away in serene corners from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, each of these stays invites you to unwind. There’s no itinerary to follow, no rush—just open skies, still moments, and room to truly relax.

Mayfair Spring Valley Resort, Guwahati, Assam
Spanning 50 acres of green valley on the quiet outskirts of Guwahati, Mayfair Spring Valley blends luxury, space, and comfort in every corner. As the largest and most premium resort in Eastern India, it features 260 well-appointed rooms, along with private villas and cottages nestled in the hills. Designed with traditional Assamese patterns, these spaces open to sweeping valley views. Here, you can slow down, breathe deeper, and reconnect with nature. Sip local tea on a balcony, walk through landscaped gardens, or unwind with a spa treatment. The infinity pool melts into the forest canopy, while scenic dining highlights fresh regional flavors. With warm hospitality and a focus on well-being, this retreat invites travelers to unplug and fully embrace the Joy of Missing Out.

Shakti 360° Leti, Kumaon Himalaya

Giving a 360° view of the Himalayan peaks along the India-Nepal border, Shakti 360 is a high-end lodge designed for complete escape. Four cabins crafted from stone, wood, and glass offer stunning mountain vistas and full privacy. The lodge embraces simplicity with no Wi-Fi, minimal technology to help you disconnect and soak in the silence of the mountains. Mornings begin with fresh mountain air and panoramic sunrises, while days pass watching clouds float over rugged peaks from floor-to-ceiling windows, wrapped in warm blankets in a quiet reflection amid breathtaking surroundings.

The Oberoi Sukhvilas Spa Resort, Chandigarh, Punjab

Tucked within 8,000 acres of Siswan Forest near Chandigarh, The Oberoi Sukhvilas Spa Resort offers calm, space, and quiet luxury with a landscape of beautiful gardens with fountains, reflection pools, and traditional architecture. Listed as ‘One of the World’s Greatest Places,’ the resort consists of spacious villas and luxury tents, and premier Rooms which open onto private gardens.  The Oberoi Spa is designed for travelers to feel, ‘to be near oneself’, with a luxury hammam, hot stone massage, and many other treatments available within the resort. Meals are crafted with seasonal, farm-fresh ingredients that are deeply nourishing, and surrounded by forest silence and regal comfort. You can settle effortlessly into stillness, whether soaking in the spa, resting in the filtered light of a garden pavilion, or simply enjoying the luxury of doing nothing at all.

Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa, Uttarakhand

Set 30 km from Rishikesh, Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa rests between the Shivalik mountains, deciduous forests, and the flowing Ganges. Built from locally sourced materials, the resort reflects Himalayan village and temple fort architecture across 50,000 square metres. Rooms and villas offer uninterrupted views of the river and hills, with interiors that blend Garhwali charm and quiet luxury. Curated antiques, warm fireplaces, and jaali-screened spaces invite calm. You can unwind with spa therapies, yoga, or meditation at the J Wellness Circle. Organic, regional cuisine and signature drinks come with sweeping views. From the riverside aarti to starlit hammocks, every detail invites stillness, being a perfect location for a soulful escape, where you can feel the JOMO within.

Brunton Boatyard, Fort Kochi, Kerala

Overlooking the Arabian Sea in Fort Kochi, Brunton Boatyard by CGH Earth blends colonial charm with quiet elegance. Once a 19th-century shipyard, the restored heritage hotel reflects Portuguese, Dutch, and English influences through high ceilings, antique furniture, and curated artifacts. Watch ships drift across the Arabian Sea from a breezy balcony or sip cardamom chai on the jetty as dolphins pass by. Each space invites stillness, from the planter’s chair to the open courtyard. The scent of history lingers in the walls, echoing Fort Kochi’s trading past when Kerala’s pepper rivaled gold. Surrounded by sea breeze and timeless architecture, Brunton Boatyard is where the JOMO becomes a gentle, everyday pleasure.

Barefoot at Havelock, Andaman Islands

A 90-minute ferry from Port Blair brings you to Beach No. 7, which consists of pure white sand, rocks, and blue water, echoing the sound of crashing waves. Just a minute's walk from a secluded beach lies the  Barefoot at Havelock Resort, built using environmentally sensitive, indigenous materials. It is the first sustainably designed property in the Andaman Islands, consisting of thirty-one thatched villas that sit quietly within tropical forest, without air-conditioning or televisions to distract from nature. Staff deliver fresh coconut water to your doorstep every two hours, leaving you to choose between a hammock nap or a stretch of white sand. Afternoons pass slowly, and by 5 p.m., slipping into the warm, glassy sea feels like joining the ocean at rest. With nothing urgent to do and nowhere else to be, this is the kind of place where JOMO finds its true home.

Conclusion

Choosing JOMO doesn’t mean giving up comfort—it means redefining it. These six retreats prove that true luxury lies in space, silence, and the freedom to disconnect. Set in some of India’s most tranquil landscapes, each resort invites you to pause without pressure, to rest without guilt. Step away, slow down, and let stillness renew you. After all, doing nothing isn’t idle, it’s intentional, restorative, and quietly powerful.

Mayfair Spring Valley Resort, Guwahati Wins “Best Luxury Resort – Destination Wedding” at India Travel Awards 2025

The national recognition positions the resort as a leading luxury wedding destination in Northeast India and a benchmark for high-profile celebrations

Guwahati, September 2025: Mayfair Spring Valley Resort, Guwahati, one of Northeast India’s leading luxury hospitality landmarks, has been named “Best Luxury Resort – Destination Wedding” at the prestigious India Travel Awards 2025. The award, presented by Mr. Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister for Tourism, in New Delhi, and was received by Mr. Parvesh Sharma, Director, on behalf of the resort.

At a time when destination weddings are driving India’s luxury hospitality growth, with the market valued at USD 3.5 billion in 2024 and projected to reach USD 25.7 billion by 2033, the recognition positions Guwahati and the wider Northeast as emerging hotspots for high-profile celebrations. Competing with leading resorts across the country, Mayfair Spring Valley stood out for its blend of lush landscapes, contemporary design, and personalized guest experiences, making it a preferred choice for upscale weddings in the region.

The property boasts 260 well-appointed rooms, 72,000 square feet of versatile indoor event spaces, and sprawling green lawns spanning 2.2 lakh square feet—perfectly suited for grand outdoor celebrations. It also features the largest banquet hall in East India, a stunning 30,000 square feet venue that accommodates large-scale events with ease and elegance. Over the years, it has hosted several marquee weddings, social events, and corporate off-sites, drawing families and guests from across India. Its integration of natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and world-class amenities has made it a versatile venue for luxury celebrations, leisure stays, and bespoke experiences in Northeast India.

Speaking on the accolade, Mr Parvesh Sharma, Director, Mayfair Spring Valley, said, “This award reflects the dedication and expertise of every member of our team, from operations to guest services. It’s a recognition of the consistent effort we put into understanding what our guests value, whether it’s seamless planning, personalized experiences, or attention to detail in every aspect of a wedding or corporate retreat. Being acknowledged on a national platform motivates us to innovate further, invest in training, and continually refine our offerings so that every celebration and stay at Mayfair Spring Valley is truly exceptional.”

The win underscores the resort’s stature and highlights the growing appeal of Northeast India as a destination for luxury experiences, offering couples and travelers alternatives to traditional venues in India.

With this achievement, Mayfair Spring Valley Resort, Guwahati, cements its reputation as a premier choice for weddings, events, family holidays, corporate off-sites, and luxury getaways, placing Assam firmly on the map of India’s most desirable destinations.

About Mayfair Spring Valley Resort, Guwahati

Mayfair Spring Valley Resort in Guwahati offers a peaceful escape with comfortable, well-designed rooms set amidst lush greenery. The resort features rejuvenating spa services, multiple dining options, and spacious venues for events and gatherings. With attention to detail and warm hospitality, it creates a welcoming environment for guests seeking both relaxation and convenience.