Author: Khwaish Jain

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) Ran Baas, The Palace, Patiala is officially celebrating its first anniversary, marking a significant milestone as Punjab’s very first luxury heritage palace hotel. Since its grand opening in January 2025, the property has transformed into a beacon of heritage-led luxury, demonstrating how historical restoration can be seamlessly integrated with world-class hospitality operations. Located within the storied walls of the Moti Bagh Palace complex, Ran Baas has spent its inaugural year reviving the cultural and luxury travel identity of Patiala. By foregrounding the city’s royal history, traditional crafts, and unique culinary traditions, the hotel has successfully positioned…

-Shalini Chandrasekaran (editorial1@imaws.org) When it comes to bustling cities in Tamil Nadu, Madurai is the first that comes to mind. The city is incredibly busy 24 hours a day. And then there’s the food parotta, kari dosa, watery chutney, and a wide variety of non-vegetarian dishes – the culinary delights of Madurai are endless. In this vibrant city of Madurai, ‘Temple City Hotel’ is attracting customers with its more than 20 branches. While expanding this hotel chain on the highways, S.J. Abhiram Vikas, the Managing Director of Temple City Hotel, spoke to us. “We first opened ‘Temple City Hotel’ in…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) In a major leadership transition, Deepinder Goyal, the founder and CEO of Zomato (rebranded as Eternal), has announced he will step down after 18 years at the helm. Taking his place as the Group CEO is Albinder Dhindsa, the current head of Zomato’s quick-commerce arm, Blinkit. A Shift Toward Quick-Commerce Dominance The appointment of Dhindsa signals Eternal’s strategic pivot toward the $11.5 billion instant delivery market, where Blinkit has recently become the company’s largest revenue driver. New Leadership: Albinder Dhindsa, who founded Blinkit in 2014 and led its successful integration into Zomato in 2022, will now…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) In the high-stakes world of the Indian culinary industry, a name is more than just a label, it is a promise of consistency, taste, and heritage. For decades, the name ‘Sangeetha’ has been synonymous with the quintessential Chennai vegetarian dining experience. However, the ongoing legal skirmish between Sangeetha Caterers and Consultants LLP and its former franchisees, now operating under the brand ‘Geetham,’ has reached a critical juncture. On Thursday, the Madras High Court reserved its judgment in this long-standing trademark dispute. While the court’s decision will eventually settle the legal technicalities, the case serves as a…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org)  Minor Hotels Australasia has announced the appointment of Anup Mathur to the newly created role of Account Director – India. Based in Bengaluru, Mathur will be responsible for driving business growth and strengthening strategic partnerships across India, a market identified by the group as having significant long-term potential for travel into Australia and New Zealand. Strategic Focus on the Indian Market The creation of this dedicated leadership role underscores Minor Hotels’ commitment to the Indian source market, which has shown accelerating growth for the Australasian region. Expertise: Mathur brings over 17 years of experience in hospitality…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) The Postcard Hotel has officially opened The Postcard on the Mandovi River, a bespoke 18-room retreat in North Goa. Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Mandovi River, this brand-new property is designed to offer a “slow holiday” experience, blending understated luxury with deep cultural immersion. The retreat emphasizes privacy and seclusion, featuring its own private jetty for seamless river access. Design & Guest Experience The property is crafted to harmonize with its natural surroundings, offering guests a peaceful escape from the typical hustle of North Goa. Intimate Accommodations: The hotel features just 18 rooms, each…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) Marriott International has officially launched Ummrao Saaj at the Courtyard by Marriott Mumbai International Airport, marking its first-ever “Modern Indian” restaurant concept in South Asia. Guided by the philosophy of “Modern Plates, Rooted Stories,” the restaurant serves as a contemporary tribute to Awadhi cuisine, blending heritage-led storytelling with refined culinary techniques and a sophisticated sensory experience. The Three Pillars: Nava, Raag, and Sangam The identity of Ummrao Saaj is built upon three core conceptual foundations: Nava (Evolution): Traditional Awadhi recipes, such as Galawat Kebabs and slow-braised meats, are reimagined through modern expression while maintaining their authentic…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) Lemon Tree Hotels Limited has announced the signing of Lemon Tree Premier, Omkareshwar, marking a significant addition to its portfolio in Madhya Pradesh. Strategically located in one of India’s most revered pilgrimage sites, the hotel aims to provide a high-quality, vibrant stay experience for devotees and leisure travelers alike. This new project bolsters the brand’s presence in the state, which currently features four operational and ten upcoming properties. Strategic Location: The Heart of Spiritual Tourism Omkareshwar, situated on an island in the Narmada River, is home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) Summit Hotels & Resorts has officially entered the retreat hotel segment in Sikkim with the launch of Summit Signature Retreat Pangthang in Gangtok. Perched on a hilltop amid pine plantations, the 38-room property offers breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Eastern Himalayas, including Mount Kanchenjunga. Designed for travelers seeking seclusion and wellness, the retreat marks a strategic expansion of Summit’s “destination-led” mountain hospitality in the Northeast. Property Highlights & Guest Experience The retreat is built to offer a slower, more immersive travel experience, balancing nature with modern comfort. Accommodations: 38 rooms and suites across five categories, including…

-KH News Desk (editorial1@imaws.org) The Waffle Co., a rapidly growing dessert brand, has announced an aggressive expansion strategy to launch over 200 new stores by the first half of 2026. This move is aimed at solidifying its nationwide presence, spanning major metropolitan areas as well as high-growth Tier II and Tier III cities. By focusing on accessibility and consistency, the brand seeks to capture a larger share of India’s evolving quick-service dessert market. Strategic Expansion: From Mumbai to Gangtok The brand’s growth roadmap covers a diverse geographical footprint, targeting high-footfall locations in malls, high streets, and neighborhood hubs. Mumbai Offensive:…