Author: Khwaish Hingad
-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…
-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…