Hotelier Talks

Strategic Growth in India’s Evolving Hospitality Landscape

Mr. Jayant Singh

Managing Partner of TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts

01-April-2026

Strategic Growth in India’s Evolving Hospitality Landscape

In an exclusive and insightful interaction, we bring you a compelling conversation with a leader who has consistently challenged the norms of Indian hospitality. Featured in our latest edition, Mr. Jayant Singh, Managing Partner of TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts, shares his journey, vision, and the philosophy that continues to shape one of India’s most distinctive hotel brands. At a time when most hotel chains focused their growth on metropolitan cities, Mr. Singh chose a different path, one that looked towards the India that was often overlooked. In this featured article, he reflects on the early insight that led to the creation of TreeHouse Hotels & Resorts, and how that vision has evolved into a multi-brand platform catering to diverse traveller segments across the country. From its beginnings in 2007 to becoming a network of over 500 keys across 17 operational properties, the brand’s growth story is rooted in a simple yet powerful idea: delivering reliable, comfortable, and heartfelt hospitality in emerging destinations. As he explains, the core philosophy of “Service Dil-Se” remains unchanged, even as the brand expands its architecture across economy, midscale, and upscale offerings. As the conversation unfolds, Mr. Singh offers a candid perspective on the dynamics of Tier II and Tier III markets, highlighting the growing demand driven by domestic travel and infrastructure development, alongside the gap in professionally managed supply. His insights reveal the strategic advantage of being an early mover, building strong local relationships and establishing brand trust in evolving markets. He also delves into the realities of managing multiple brands without overlap, maintaining consistency through strong operational frameworks, and fostering meaningful partnerships with property owners. Equally important is his honest take on the industry’s talent challenges, emphasising the need for stronger career pathways and continued investment in people. Looking ahead, his focus remains on thoughtful expansion and strengthening presence across emerging destinations, while staying aligned with the changing expectations of the Indian traveller. It is, without doubt, a rich and engaging conversation that captures both the journey and the future of India-first hospitality. To read the complete interview and explore deeper insights, readers can access the full feature in the HospitalityNews April magazine, available on our website and in print.

Inside Alivaa’s Bold Vision for India’s Hospitality Future

Vikramjit Singh and Akash Bhatia

Chairman & Managing Director and CEO, ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts

01-April-2026

Inside Alivaa’s Bold Vision for India’s Hospitality Future

In an exclusive and compelling interaction, we bring you a powerful conversation with two industry leaders who are quietly but confidently reshaping the narrative of Indian hospitality. Featured in our Insiders Talk section, Vikramjit Singh and Akash Bhatia of ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts share perspectives that reflect not just experience, but intent, resilience, and a forward-looking vision. At a time when the hospitality sector stands at a critical inflection point, conversations like these offer rare insight into what truly drives transformation. In this featured article, both leaders open up about their journeys, the lessons that shaped them, and the bold decisions that led to the creation of a brand built for tomorrow. There is a distinct depth to their reflections, whether it is Singh’s decision to step into entrepreneurship at a defining moment for the industry, or his observations on the evolving mindset of the post-pandemic traveller. From trust and hygiene becoming decisive factors to the growing appetite for new destinations, his insights capture the pulse of a rapidly changing market. Bhatia, on the other hand, brings a strategic lens to the conversation, detailing how ALIVAA is building a disruptive, asset-light ecosystem while maintaining strong brand identity across segments. His thoughts on “intuitive care,” consistency at scale, and the importance of empowered teams reveal the philosophy that underpins the brand’s growth. As the discussion unfolds, themes of technology, leadership, and adaptability take centre stage. From AI-driven revenue management to unified guest experiences, and from leading multicultural teams to building agile organisations, every response adds a new layer to understanding modern hospitality leadership. What makes this interaction particularly engaging is the honesty and clarity with which both leaders speak, not just about success, but about the realities of building something meaningful in a competitive landscape. It is, without doubt, an insightful and enriching conversation that reflects the spirit of reinvention in Indian hospitality. To explore the complete interview and gain deeper perspectives, readers can access the full feature in the Hospitality News April magazine, available on our website and in print.

A Conversation That Redefines Skill-Based Education in India

R. Boomee Nathan

Founder and Chairman of Chennais Amirta Group of Institutions

01-April-2026

A Conversation That Redefines Skill-Based Education in India

In an exclusive and thought-provoking interaction, we bring you insights from one of the most influential voices shaping skill-based education in India today. Featured in our latest edition, R. Boomee naathan, Founder and Chairman of Chennais Amirta Group of Institutions, opens up on the philosophy, milestones, and vision that continue to define his institution’s journey. At a time when the hospitality and aviation sectors are evolving rapidly, conversations like these offer rare clarity. Through this featured article, Mr. Boomeenaathan shares perspectives that go beyond conventional education, touching upon transformation, employability, and the larger purpose of learning. His journey, rooted in the idea of creating opportunities, reflects in every answer, making this an interview that is both insightful and inspiring. From building a multi-disciplinary institution to redefining practical learning through the “Earn While You Learn” model, he highlights how real-world exposure is shaping confident professionals even before they graduate. What stands out is his belief that education is not just about degrees, but about creating a life-changing ecosystem that impacts families and communities. As the conversation unfolds, he speaks about what truly differentiates a Chennais Amirta graduate industry readiness from day one. With infrastructure that mirrors real-world environments and a strong focus on discipline, adaptability, and global standards, the institution has consistently delivered professionals who stand out across industries. The discussion also brings to light powerful real-life transformations, global achievements like the Culinary Olympics, and the strategic expansion into aviation and nursing, sectors united by service excellence and human care. Each insight builds a deeper understanding of how integrated learning is becoming the future. Towards the end, Mr. Boomeenaathan shares his vision of positioning Chennais Amirta as a global hub for skill-based education, powered by technology, international collaborations, and a strong placement network. It is, without doubt, a compelling and enriching conversation that reflects both purpose and progress. To experience the complete interview and deeper insights, readers can explore the full feature in the Hospitality News April magazine, available on our website, and in print.

Shaping Colombo’s Luxury Hospitality Landscape: A Conversation with Andreas Streiber

Andreas Streiber

General Manager of Shangri-La Colombo

01-March-2026

Shaping Colombo’s Luxury Hospitality Landscape: A Conversation with Andreas Streiber

In an exclusive interaction with Hospitality News, seasoned hospitality leader Andreas Streiber offered a thoughtful and compelling perspective on leadership, guest experience, and the evolving role of luxury hotels in dynamic city destinations. As the General Manager of Shangri-La Colombo, Andreas brings with him over 25 years of global experience with the Shangri-La Group, shaping his people-first philosophy and deeply rooted approach to service excellence. Drawing from a career that spans multiple international markets, Andreas reflected on how global exposure has influenced his leadership style. He emphasised adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and empathy as critical elements in managing diverse teams and meeting the expectations of an increasingly global guest profile. According to him, understanding cultural nuances and fostering inclusive team environments are essential to delivering meaningful and authentic hospitality experiences. Speaking about Shangri-La Colombo, Andreas described the property as more than just a luxury urban hotel. As a landmark development and the first new luxury hotel to open in Colombo in over three decades, it represents confidence in the city’s future as a global destination. He highlighted the hotel’s unique balance of contemporary elegance and Sri Lankan heritage, positioning it as a social and cultural hub for both international travellers and local communities. Operational excellence remains a cornerstone of his leadership. Andreas shared insights into the importance of strong training programmes, quality control, and the strategic use of guest feedback to ensure consistency across service and performance. He also underlined the role of accountability and teamwork in delivering seamless guest experiences in a large luxury environment. Food and beverage, he noted, plays a powerful role in shaping a hotel’s identity. By blending authentic local flavours with global culinary influences, the hotel aims to create dining experiences that are both culturally rich and emotionally engaging. Looking ahead, Andreas outlined his vision for Shangri-La Colombo, one centred on deeper guest engagement, an inclusive and empowered team culture, and long-term leadership in sustainable luxury hospitality. This insightful exchange offered a rare glimpse into the mindset of a leader shaping one of Colombo’s most iconic hospitality destinations. It was truly a great conversation, and we invite you to explore the complete interview in the Hospitality News March magazine, available on our website and in the physical print edition.

Shreya Malpani on Building the Future of Experiential Entertainment

Shreya Malpani

Director at the Malpani Group

01-March-2026

Shreya Malpani on Building the Future of Experiential Entertainment

As India’s leisure and entertainment industry enters a more experience-driven era, leadership clarity and operational precision are becoming defining factors of success. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitality News, Shreya Malpani, Director at the Malpani Group, shared powerful insights into how immersive destinations are being built for the modern Indian consumer. Representing a new generation within the Group’s legacy, she is closely involved with brands such as ImagicaaWorld and Dave & Buster’s in India. Her vision signals a shift from traditional arcade-led formats to integrated, design-forward ecosystems where food, technology, and play converge seamlessly. At the heart of her leadership philosophy lies clarity of vision and uncompromising experience standards. She emphasised that while multiple formats may operate under one umbrella, alignment in guest experience principles is non-negotiable. For her, strategy cannot remain disconnected from operations. Brand storytelling, team culture and on-ground delivery must move in sync to ensure experience integrity at scale. Marketing, she explained, must evoke emotion before promoting offers. Campaigns are built around how guests should feel, ensuring that the promise communicated externally is consistently delivered internally. Emotional recall, according to her, is the true measure of brand strength in entertainment. Reflecting on launching Dave & Buster’s in India, she highlighted a critical learning: global formats must be contextualised. Indian consumers are aspirational yet discerning, requiring a fine balance between international benchmarks and local cultural relevance. Authenticity and operational discipline, she noted, are essential to sustaining credibility. On balancing creativity with operational excellence, she advocates “disciplined creativity”- encouraging bold ideas within structured systems that protect brand standards. Innovation, when supported by process, becomes sustainable. Looking ahead, she sees integrated, multi-format destinations, personalization, immersive technology, and community-driven programming shaping the future of leisure in India. It was a great conversation we had with her, one that reflects ambition, structure, and a clear direction for experiential growth. To explore the complete interaction, read the full feature in the HospitalityNews March Magazine on our website and secure your physical copy for an in-depth industry perspective.

People, Purpose, and Culinary Leadership

Chef V. Bharathan

Executive Chef at Avolta India, Bengaluru Airport (Terminal 1),

01-February-2026

People, Purpose, and Culinary Leadership

In an exclusive featured interaction with Hospitality News, Executive Chef V. Bharathan offers rare insights into the values and discipline that have shaped his remarkable journey in hospitality. From beginning his career at the very entry level of Food & Beverage service to leading complex culinary operations at Bengaluru Airport’s Terminal 1, his story reflects resilience, consistency, and purpose-led leadership. Now serving as Executive Chef at Avolta India, Chef Bharathan speaks candidly about the formative years that taught him patience, humility, and endurance, and the mentors who shaped his belief that leadership must be firm on standards yet humane in practice. He also reflects on balancing authenticity and innovation while cooking for fast-moving, diverse traveller audiences, ensuring comfort without compromising culinary identity. The conversation further explores his pioneering work in fireless and knifeless kitchen systems, developed to enhance safety, efficiency, and team confidence in high-volume airport environments. Equally compelling are his thoughts on inclusive employment, where dignity, trust, and opportunity emerge as the true pillars of hospitality. This thoughtful exchange goes beyond food, revealing a leader driven by character, discipline, and conscience. It is a meaningful conversation that captures the evolving essence of culinary leadership in India today. Readers can explore the complete interview in the Hospitality News February Magazine, available on our website and in the physical print edition.

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Shaping the Future of Indian Hospitality: A Conversation with FHRAI President Surendra Kumar Jaiswal

Surendra Kumar Jaiswal

President of the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI)

01-February-2026

Shaping the Future of Indian Hospitality: A Conversation with FHRAI President Surendra Kumar Jaiswal

At a time when India’s hospitality and food services sector is entering a decisive phase of transformation, strong leadership and clear policy direction have never been more critical. In an exclusive and in-depth conversation, Hospitality News brings forward the perspectives of Mr. Surendra Kumar Jaiswal, President of the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), who is steering the industry through a period of opportunity, reform, and reinvention. A second-generation hotelier and a respected industry voice, Mr. Jaiswal combines hands-on entrepreneurial experience with a deep understanding of policy, sustainability, and talent development. Leading a diverse hospitality portfolio across Uttar Pradesh and actively involved in philanthropic initiatives, his journey reflects both scale and sensitivity, qualities increasingly essential in today’s hospitality landscape. In this featured interview, Mr. Jaiswal speaks candidly about FHRAI’s evolving role as a proactive policy partner, the structural changes needed to keep Indian hospitality globally competitive, and the urgent reforms required to unlock long-term, sustainable growth. He also sheds light on how hospitality-led development in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities can reshape India’s tourism economy while creating inclusive regional opportunities. Beyond policy and expansion, the conversation delves into the future, where sustainability, skilling, and digital transformation intersect. From responsible operations and workforce development to the growing influence of contactless guest management technologies, Mr. Jaiswal outlines how the industry can embrace innovation without losing its human essence. What makes this interaction especially compelling is its balance of vision and pragmatism. Each response reflects not just ambition, but actionable pathways for hotels and restaurants of all sizes, making this discussion particularly relevant for industry leaders, investors, and emerging professionals alike. The complete and unfiltered conversation with Mr. Surendra Kumar Jaiswal is featured in the Hospitality News February Magazine. Readers can explore the full interview on our website e-magazine or experience it in print by getting their physical copy of the February edition, a must-read for anyone invested in the future of Indian hospitality.

Hyatt’s Commitment to Responsible Hospitality

Ruban Das

General Manager of Hyatt Regency Chennai

01-January-2026

Hyatt’s Commitment to Responsible Hospitality

In a featured interaction with Guestvento Hospitality News, Ruban Das, a seasoned hospitality leader with over two decades of experience across Hyatt, Hilton, and Accor, shared measured insights on what it truly means to build responsible, future-ready hotels. Known for blending operational discipline with a strong people-first approach, Das has played a key role in embedding sustainability into hotel operations, most notably through Hyatt’s journey toward EarthCheck Silver certification. During the conversation, Das spoke candidly about why sustainability today must go beyond intent and messaging. With increasing scrutiny from guests, partners, and global stakeholders, accountability and data-backed performance have become essential. He highlighted how benchmarking platforms like EarthCheck bring structure, transparency, and long-term thinking to sustainability efforts. The discussion also explored how the definition of luxury is evolving. From shifting away from imported ingredients toward mindful local sourcing, to partnering with Indian producers and artisans, Das underlined how responsible choices can strengthen both sustainability and business resilience. Community partnerships, particularly those supporting rural livelihoods and circular practices, emerged as a meaningful part of this philosophy. Importantly, Das shed light on the complex, behind-the-scenes efforts that define responsible hospitality from waste management and water recycling to reducing single-use plastics and strengthening procurement systems. It was a thoughtful and insightful conversation that reinforces why responsible luxury is no longer optional but essential. The complete interview can be read in the Hospitality News January magazine, available on our website and in print.

Where Food Meets Fun: Jolly Indian’s Culinary Adventure

Manoj Padmanaban and Japtej Ahluwalia

Founder - JOLLY INDIAN

01-January-2026

Where Food Meets Fun: Jolly Indian’s Culinary Adventure

In an exclusive interview with Hospitality News, Manoj Padmanaban and Japtej Ahluwalia, the visionaries behind Jolly Indian, shared their insights on redefining Indian dining. Manoj, renowned for his award-winning Pandan Club and pioneering zero-ABV beverage program, explains that Jolly Indian was designed as more than a restaurant. “Dining isn’t just hospitality, it’s food, entertainment, and memory-making,” he says. From a dhol-filled entrance to playful moments like a giant lassi machine and a potti-kadai-style paan counter, every detail is crafted to create joy and surprise. Japtej, a prominent NRAI board member, adds that the concept celebrates India as a mood, not a map. Jolly Indian fills a gap between traditional eateries and ultra-premium dining in Chennai, offering playful, elevated comfort foods that resonate with today’s urban diner. The founders emphasize the seamless blend of creativity and discipline, involving staff in storytelling and maintaining operational authenticity. Their approach ensures that the experience guests see online mirrors the vibrant atmosphere inside. This exclusive conversation is a glimpse into the minds behind one of Chennai’s most exciting culinary ventures. It’s a fascinating discussion full of passion, innovation, and inspiration. This was an engaging and insightful conversation, and readers can explore the complete article in the Hospitality News – January Edition, available on our website and in print.

PGC Chennai: Where Lifestyle, Leisure and Family Experiences Come Together

Ms. Sonali Jain,

Managing Partner of PGC

01-December-2025

PGC Chennai: Where Lifestyle, Leisure and Family Experiences Come Together

Ponneri Gymkhana Club (PGC) has emerged as one of North Chennai’s most dynamic lifestyle and hospitality destinations. Spanning 60,000 sq. ft., it stands as the region’s largest and most integrated family club, offering a unique blend of recreation, sports, celebrations, wellness and stay experiences under one expansive space. In an engaging conversation with Hospitality News, Ms. Sonali Jain, Managing Partner of PGC, shared the vision that guides the club’s growth. Her clarity, warmth and community-first approach define PGC’s identity. “Our goal at PGC is simple. We want every guest and every member to feel valued, cared for and connected. Hospitality should make people feel at home, and that is what we strive for,” she notes. Her vision translates into a thoughtfully designed destination for every member of the family. The club features over 170 rooms and suites, a grand 800-seater banquet hall, a 5,000-capacity open lawn and facilities for 12 sports including badminton, squash, cricket, golf and table tennis. It also houses a pool party lawn, gym, spa, salon, private theatre, multi-cuisine restaurant, café and business lounge. Enhancing its culinary offerings, PGC now includes a dedicated Pure Vegetarian Kitchen, ensuring elevated hygiene, tradition and comfort. PGC has become a preferred venue for weddings, corporate events, celebrations, vacations and fitness experiences. Its membership offers strong lifestyle value with complimentary stays, full facility access, priority bookings and a vibrant community environment. Founder & Managing Director Mr. Rajeev Ajmera reinforces this purpose, “North Chennai deserved a world-class leisure and sports destination. Our objective was to build a space that families can truly call their own.” His vision continues to shape PGC as a benchmark for hospitality and community living. Guests and prospective members are invited to explore a destination that truly feels like home, Read more details and the full article in our Hospitality News December edition, available on our website and in print.

Moth to Flame – A Hotelier’s Journey Illuminating Indian Hospitality

PK Mohankumar

Founder & CEO - Turnstone Hospitality LLP

01-December-2025

Moth to Flame – A Hotelier’s Journey Illuminating Indian Hospitality

"Moth to Flame” is one of those rare stories that lingers in the heart long after the final page. Authored by veteran hotelier P. K. Mohankumar, fondly known as PKMK, the book transcends the boundaries of a traditional memoir. It is a poetic reflection on a life shaped by humility, purpose, and an unwavering devotion to the art of hospitality. Born in the serene city of Trivandrum, Mohankumar chose a path less travelled when he pursued hotel management at the prestigious Institute of Hotel Management, Mumbai, an unconventional decision at a time when engineering, medicine, and civil services dominated aspirations. The book gracefully follows his rise through the Indian Hotels Company Limited (Tata Group), where he spent over four decades contributing to the soul of Indian hospitality. From the corridors of the iconic Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, to his leadership roles as Managing Director and CEO of Taj Gateway and Ginger Hotels, his journey reflects a deep belief that hospitality is not merely a profession but a calling built on empathy and service. Along the way, readers encounter rare insights from his interactions with visionaries such as the late J. R. D. Tata and the late Ratan Tata. Mohankumar also offers an intimate look at balancing an intense career with family life, anchoring his journey in discipline, integrity, and meaningful moments despite the demands of the industry. Honoured with the Hall of Fame Award by IHM Dadar and the Lifetime Achievement Award by TajLifers Collective, he continues to guide the next generation. “Moth to Flame” stands as an inspiring tribute to passion, purpose, and the timeless spirit of hospitality. It was a truly inspiring journey and knowing about PK Mohankumar, whose leadership continues to redefine the essence of modern hospitality. This was an engaging and insightful conversation, and readers can explore the complete article in the Hospitality News – December Edition, available on our website and in print.About the Book Title: Moth to Flame Author: P. K. Mohankumar Genre: Memoir, Hospitality and Leadership Now available for readers and dreamers who believe that true hospitality begins with heart. To order your hard copy of “Moth to Flame,” please fill out the form below and complete the payment via GPay:   After payment, share a screenshot for confirmation. Your copy will be delivered within 10 working days. 

The Future of Resort Investments in India by Dinesh Yadav

Dinesh Yadav

Founder & MD of Fine Acers

01-December-2025

The Future of Resort Investments in India by Dinesh Yadav

In an exclusive feature for Hospitality News, we spoke with Dinesh Yadav, Founder & MD of Fine Acers, who shared sharp insights into the fast-evolving landscape of luxury resort investments in India. He explained that branded resorts operating on a sales-leaseback model are increasingly appealing as they offer consistent yields and long-term value appreciation. With higher occupancy, premium pricing, and rising operating margins, branded properties continue to strengthen investor confidence. As India’s luxury hospitality segment matures, these resorts also command stronger resale values, lower operational risks, and predictable cash flows, especially when professionally managed by reputed hospitality brands. Yadav highlighted that the Fine Acers model focuses on accessibility and risk mitigation by partnering with established hotel operators and creating structured opportunities that allow even smaller-ticket investors to participate in high-quality assets. Clearly outlined revenue-share models, lease arrangements, profit-sharing mechanisms, fixed returns, or minimum guarantees enhance transparency and reduce downside risk, while branded assets naturally enjoy greater appreciation due to sustained demand and brand credibility. He further noted that India’s hospitality sector is poised to attract nearly USD 1 billion by 2028, supported by rising occupancy, ADR, and RevPAR across leisure segments. Fine Acers evaluates key indicators such as brand strength, tourism potential, contract structures, projected cash flows, and exit opportunities while assessing their resort portfolio. According to Yadav, their structured sales-leaseback model stands apart from traditional real estate or independent hotel investments by offering minimal operational involvement, stronger brand advantages, and a more secure path for investors seeking exposure to luxury hospitality. It was a truly inspiring conversation with Dinesh Yadav, whose leadership continues to redefine the essence of resort investmensts. This was an engaging and insightful conversation, and readers can explore the complete interview in the Hospitality News – December Edition, available on our website and in print.

Chef Jerson Fernandes: A Culinary Story of Resilience

Chef Jerson Fernandes

Director of Culinary Operations (Corporate Food) at Sodexo India

01-November-2025

Chef Jerson Fernandes: A Culinary Story of Resilience

In the high-octane world of gastronomy, few stories blend humility and achievement quite like that of Chef Jerson Fernandes. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitality News, the Guinness World Record holder and Director of Culinary Operations (Corporate Food) at Sodexo India opens up about a journey defined not by fame, but by fortitude. Today, as one of India’s most respected culinary leaders, his story isn’t just about mastering recipes, it’s about mastering resilience. Before the accolades and White House invitations, there was a young man in a modest kitchen, learning the true value of hard work. Chef Jerson began his journey as a dishwasher, a role that taught him humility, patience, and the discipline that would one day define his leadership. For most chefs, the dream of cooking for international delegates belongs to fantasy. For Chef Jerson, it became history, twice. Being the only Indian chef to cook for White House delegates on two separate occasions placed Indian flavours at the heart of global diplomacy. His achievements include being named Best Executive Chef of India across seven platforms and winning the Hotelier India Award twice, an unmatched feat in the industry. Beyond accolades, his philosophy remains deeply human. He believes authenticity is India’s greatest luxury—whether in a simple Goan curry or a contemporary tasting menu. His culinary repertoire has touched the lives of global icons across business, cinema, and sports, yet his focus remains unchanged: connection through food. As a mentor, leader, and advocate for inclusion, Chef Jerson has trained special needs children, collaborated with the armed forces, and transformed kitchens into spaces of learning. With over 4 million monthly digital impressions, he continues to inspire and educate a generation of young chefs. It was a privilege speaking with Chef Jerson Fernandes, whose journey proves that true success is born from humility and heart. Read the complete interview in the November issue of Hospitality News on our website, or get your physical copy to explore his full story.

The Art of Soulful Hospitality at GRT Hotels

Vikram Cotah

CEO of GRT Hotels & Resorts

01-November-2025

The Art of Soulful Hospitality at GRT Hotels

In an era when luxury is often measured by grandeur, Vikram Cotah, CEO of GRT Hotels & Resorts, is crafting a new narrative, one where luxury feels human, purposeful, and rooted in culture. In an exclusive conversation with Hospitality News, he delves into how GRT Hotels has evolved into a symbol of Soulful Hospitality, blending design, sustainability, and local storytelling to create experiences that truly connect people with people. Under his leadership, GRT has not only expanded its footprint across South India but also redefined what modern Indian hospitality can be conscious, inclusive, and deeply experiential. In this featured interview, Vikram shares insights on how the brand’s journey began, the inspiration behind The Great Butterfly Effect, and how initiatives like The Great Being and Great Divine Darshan are shaping wellness and spiritual tourism for the next generation of travelers. From sustainable operations to promoting women in leadership, and from reimagining the Indian wedding experience with Great Ceremonies to integrating AI for hyper-personalized service, every aspect of GRT’s evolution reflects a balance between innovation and emotion. Vikram’s reflections go beyond business; they reveal a philosophy that hospitality, at its core, is an act of care and connection. What stands out most in our exchange is his conviction that India’s future in tourism lies in authenticity, in celebrating regional identities while delivering global excellence. It’s a vision that feels both ambitious and deeply grounded. It was a truly inspiring conversation with Vikram Cotah, whose leadership continues to redefine the essence of modern hospitality. Read the full interview in the November issue of HospitalityNews, available now on our website  and don’t miss your chance to grab a physical copy for your collection.

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