Author: Khwaish Jain

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has expanded its international footprint with the opening of Taj Gangtey Resort & Spa in Phobjikha, Bhutan. This new 35-key luxury retreat marks a significant milestone in IHCL’s sub-continental growth strategy, offering travelers a unique blend of nature and spiritual culture in one of the world’s most sought-after leisure destinations. The resort is situated in the heart of the pristine Phobjikha Valley, known for its glacial beauty and as a winter home for black-necked cranes. The sanctuary features thoughtfully designed rooms that invite the valley’s stillness indoors. Guests can dine at…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) The global coffee scene in India just received a classic European upgrade. Austrian coffeehouse giant, Coffeeshop Company, has officially marked its entry into the Indian market with the inauguration of its first flagship store in Delhi. This launch represents a strategic partnership with Franchise India, aimed at bringing an authentic Viennese coffee experience to the country’s growing demographic of specialty coffee lovers. Known for its high-quality Arabica beans and traditional brewing methods, the Delhi flagship offers an extensive menu that blends European heritage with modern tastes. Highlights include the signature Viennese Melange, a creamy espresso-based delight,…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has announced the onboarding of Tree of Life Sariska Manor in Tehla, Rajasthan. This new conversion project strengthens IHCL’s presence in India’s offbeat leisure destinations and aligns with its commitment to offering nature-led, immersive stay experiences. Located in the immediate vicinity of the Sariska Tiger Reserve, the resort features 26 thoughtfully designed rooms that harmonize with the local landscape and cultural heritage. The property is positioned as a low-density retreat, catering to travelers looking for “slow travel” and a connection with the outdoors. The resort offers a variety of dining and…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) Celebrated Chef Manish Mehrotra has officially opened the doors to Nisaba, his highly anticipated flagship restaurant located in the heritage precinct of the Humayun’s Tomb World Heritage Site Museum at Sunder Nursery, New Delhi. Marking a significant new chapter under the Manish Mehrotra Culinary Arts (MMCA) banner, Nisaba is a collaboration with founding partners Amit Khanna and Binny Bansal. The restaurant moves away from the “modern Indian” or “progressive” labels that defined Mehrotra’s previous tenure at Indian Accent, opting instead for a grounded, deliberate, and deeply personal expression of Indian food. Set against the lush, historic…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) The Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) is preparing to table a significant proposal to increase licence fees for hotels, restaurants, nursing homes, and other commercial units. The proposed revision, set to be presented at the LMC House meeting on January 27, could see fees for hospitality outlets and commercial establishments rise by as much as five times the current rates. Under the Municipal Corporation bye-laws of 2003, all hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and bars within city limits are required to obtain and renew annual licences from April to March. The current move is aimed at enhancing revenue and…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) Barista Coffee, India’s oldest homegrown coffee chain, has officially crossed a historic milestone with the launch of its 500th café at Shaguna More in Patna, Bihar. The opening of this landmark outlet underscores the brand’s aggressive expansion strategy, focusing on emerging urban centers where the demand for premium coffee experiences is rapidly growing. Founded in 2000, Barista has been at the forefront of shaping India’s café culture for over two and a half decades. The brand now operates across 165+ cities, increasingly moving beyond traditional metro markets to capture the rising disposable income and evolving consumer…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) In a landmark deal for India’s Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry, Inspira Global, promoted by Aayush Madhusudan Agrawal, has entered into definitive agreements to acquire a controlling interest in Restaurant Brands Asia Ltd. (RBA). RBA is the master franchisee and operator of the Burger King brand in India and Indonesia, as well as the Popeyes brand in Indonesia. The move signals the complete exit of the existing promoter, QSR Asia Pte. Ltd. (majority-owned by Everstone Capital), following the completion of its planned investment lifecycle. The acquisition is valued at a significant premium, with Inspira Global acquiring…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) Sterling Holiday Resorts has announced the grand opening of Sterling Nirmaya Dharamshala, a stunning contemporary retreat nestled in the heart of the Himalayas. Marking Sterling’s sixth property in Himachal Pradesh, this new addition strengthens the brand’s robust leisure portfolio in North India, offering guests an immersive experience that blends the serenity of mountain life with vibrant, food-led social experiences. Perched majestically above the Kangra Valley, the resort provides uninterrupted views of the snow-capped Dhauladhar ranges. The property is designed to cater to various traveler needs, from family getaways and intimate celebrations to corporate gatherings. Each room…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) is making a significant move into the heart of India’s spiritual landscape, bringing internationally branded hospitality to some of the country’s most revered pilgrimage cities. By expanding its portfolio into Shirdi, Puri, Indore, and Ujjain, the Group is reinforcing its “first-mover” strategy in markets that are witnessing a massive surge in domestic and faith-led travel. This expansion aligns with the government’s vision for sustainable and inclusive tourism infrastructure. The Group’s latest projects include a diverse range of brands, from the contemporary Radisson RED to the refined Radisson Individuals and Park Inn &…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) Raffles Udaipur has officially announced the appointment of Gurnoor Bindra as its new General Manager. A seasoned professional in the luxury hospitality sector, Bindra joins the team with over 16 years of extensive experience spanning across Asia and the Middle East. Her appointment marks a strategic move for the resort, bringing in a leader with a nuanced understanding of modern luxury and a proven track record of managing diverse cultural expectations. In her new capacity, Bindra will oversee all operational aspects of the resort. Her primary focus will be on elevating the guest experience to new…