Bringing a distinctive blend of on-property and agency expertise, Forum’s addition to the leadership team marks an exciting chapter in the hotel’s journey toward elevating its brand narrative and guest engagement.

Forum Shah’s career is a testament to her passion for luxury hospitality and innovative marketing solutions. Prior to joining Park Hyatt Hyderabad, Forum held pivotal roles with varied luxury hotels across India and South West Asia. 

With a knack for creating compelling brand stories and implementing strategies that drive revenue and enhance visibility, Forum has been instrumental in launching successful restaurant concepts, curating experiential events, and optimizing online platforms. Her hands-on approach to marketing has consistently resulted in measurable success, making her a key player in the hospitality sector.

“It is a privilege to join Park Hyatt Hyderabad, a brand synonymous with understated luxury and unique guest experiences. I look forward to working alongside the talented team to craft meaningful campaigns that resonate with our guests and further strengthen the hotel’s market position,” said Forum Shah upon her appointment.

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This franchise agreement signifies IPCPL’s commitment to enhancing the property, upgrading its facilities, and delivering the high-quality service that Ramada is known for.

The ‘Ramada by Wyndham Ghaziabad Vasundhara’ will be a dynamic conversion hotel offering 160 keys. The hotel is currently undergoing renovation and expansion and is expected to open in 2025.

Located in the heart of the rapidly developing Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR), Ramada by Wyndham Ghaziabad Vasundhara is ideally situated between Noida’s thriving IT hub and the Sahibabad Industrial Zone. The property is conveniently located just 9 km from Hindon Airport and 30 km from Indira Gandhi International Airport, making it easily accessible for both business and leisure travelers. The hotel will feature a sleek, modern facade, elegant interiors, and an extensive range of services tailored to provide a seamless and comfortable stay for guests.

Expressing his excitement, Manish Kumar Bansal, Partner at I.P Constructions Pvt. Ltd., stated, “We are honoured to partner with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the largest hotel franchising company in the world, to bring the ‘Ramada’ brand in Vasundhara that is a prominent industrial and residential region in Ghaziabad.” 

“Through this partnership with IPCPL, we are strengthening our presence in the Delhi-NCR region with the opening of the 160-key Ramada hotel in Ghaziabad. This signing will see the hotel undergo a significant upgrade, with new inventory and modern facilities to cater to both business and leisure travelers,” said Geoff Ballotti, Chief Executive Officer, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.

“This marks our third hotel signing in Delhi-NCR under the Ramada by Wyndham brand, and our fourth hotel in the region overall. The hotel’s strategic location near industrial zones and cultural landmarks makes it an ideal choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience,” said Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director, Eurasia, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts.

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South Asia delivered a strong full-year performance, with RevPAR growth of 11%, led by ADR and occupancy. Key metropolitan markets such as Hyderabad, Gurugram, Bengaluru, and Mumbai were instrumental in driving ADR growth.

Marriott International President and Chief Executive Officer, Anthony Capuano reaffirmed the significance of the South Asia region in the company’s global growth strategy during his recent visit to India. Highlighting the region’s dynamic hospitality landscape and immense potential for expansion, he emphasized Marriott’s commitment to strengthening its presence and delivering exceptional experiences to guests.

“We had a record-breaking year in 2024 with unprecedented signings and strong business performance in South Asia, underscoring the region’s immense growth potential. With a robust pipeline of openings, Marriott remains committed to driving economic impact, creating job opportunities and supporting local economies. As we continue to broaden our brand portfolio, expand into new tertiary markets, and enhance our Marriott Bonvoy travel platform, our focus remains on meeting evolving traveler needs and delivering exceptional experiences. I am confident in our momentum as we lead the industry and bring people together through the transformative power of travel,” said Anthony Capuano, President and CEO, Marriott International.

Marriott’s 2024 pipeline highlights strong, diversified growth in the region, with 50% of rooms in Tier 1 and gateway cities, 26% in leisure destinations, and a significant share from portfolio deals. This reflects developer confidence and aligns with the growing demand for travel experiences in sought-after locations. Marriott International currently has a diverse portfolio of 168 properties across 17 distinct brands in South Asia and anticipates opening 14 hotels across the region in 2025.

Luxury and Premium Brands Propel Demand, Charting a Strong Growth Trajectory in South Asia

The luxury segment is driving demand in South Asia as affluent travelers seek tailored experiences, with a focus on premium amenities, experiences rooted in the destination, and exceptional service. Growing Marriott’s presence across both established and emerging destinations, 75% of the rooms signed in 2024 in South Asia were in the luxury and upper upscale segments. 

Known for its legendary service and refined design, The Ritz-Carlton will continue to set the standard for luxury, with anticipated openings in Jaipur, Udaipur, and Chennai. Meanwhile, Hyderabad is expected to welcome the market debut of two iconic brands—W Hotels and St. Regis Hotels & Resorts—slated to open in 2028 and 2031, respectively. JW Marriott also continues its expansion, with 6 new properties in the pipeline, bringing the total number of JW Marriott branded hotels in South Asia to 27; and the highly sought-after lifestyle brand EDITION Hotels will make its expected South Asia debut with the opening of The Mumbai EDITION in 2029. 

Marriott’s premium brands strengthened their foothold in India with the milestone opening of the country’s 150th property, Katra Marriott Resort & Spa, in 2024. Meanwhile, expansion into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities continues to gain momentum, with upcoming properties in Jaipur, Surat, Shimla, Jalandhar, and Coorg.

Select Service Portfolio Fuels Growth in Key Cities and Emerging Destinations

Select Service brands continued to strengthen Marriott’s expansion across the region, offering travellers the quality of international hospitality at accessible price points. As of YE 2024, these brands represent 31% of signed deals (representing 25% of rooms signed), driving growth in emerging destinations and key capital cities.

Moxy Hotels—designed for the next generation of travelers—became the 17th brand to join Marriott’s South Asia portfolio with the 2024 debut of Moxy Bengaluru Airport Prestige Tech Cloud. The brand is set to expand further, with upcoming openings in Kathmandu, Chennai, Mumbai (Dadar), and Bengaluru.

Expanding Best-in-Class Technology Workforce in the Region

In October of 2024, Marriott (Marriott International) established the company’s first global capability centre (GCC) in Hyderabad. Leveraging Hyderabad’s top tech talent, the Marriott Tech Accelerator is an expansion of the company’s global technology team and will support Marriott’s tech infrastructure, engineering capacity, next-gen solutions, and security capabilities across its global enterprise in 141 countries and territories.

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The company now has a total of 39 properties in Maharashtra, operational and opening shortly.

Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, expressed his pleasure at the group’s continued growth and promise to delivering unparalleled hospitality. Speaking on the occasion, he commented, “We are delighted to extend our presence in this culturally rich state, providing unique hospitality experiences that honour both the allure of Maharashtra and our dedication to sustainability. We look forward to welcoming visitors to Hatgad-Saputara and providing the exceptional service that The Fern Group is known for.”

Nestled in the serene hills of Hatgad-Saputara, The Fern Heaven on The Hills offers a luxurious escape that seamlessly blends comfort with natural beauty. The resort features 68 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each thoughtfully designed to provide a unique experience. Guests can enjoy stunning valley vistas or charming garden views, with select accommodations featuring private sitting gazebos for a tranquil retreat. Additionally, Jacuzzi-equipped suites offer the perfect setting to unwind while soaking in breathtaking panoramic landscapes. 

The Fern Heaven on The Hills offers the perfect blend of luxury and adventure, with easy access to the region’s stunning natural and cultural attractions. Guests can explore Hatgad Fort, Saputara Lake, Gira Falls and Girmal Waterfalls or visit the Saputara Tribal Museum, Purna Sanctuary, Vansda National Park and serene temples and gardens.

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With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Chef Pawan brings a wealth of culinary expertise, further strengthening the hotel’s diverse and dynamic kitchen team.

Throughout his distinguished career, Chef Pawan has held key leadership roles with renowned hotel brands, spearheading pre-opening initiatives, overseeing high – profile banquet operations, and curating signature dining experiences. His innovative approach and deep understanding of global and regional cuisines make him a valuable addition to the Radisson Blu family.

Commenting on his appointment, Amit Raman, General Manager of Radisson Blu Pune Hinjawadi, stated, “We are thrilled to welcome Chef Pawan Kumar to our team. His extensive experience, creativity, and passion for culinary excellence perfectly align with our commitment to delivering exceptional hospitality and unforgettable dining experiences. We look forward to the innovative flavours and concepts he will introduce to our guests.”

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Leveraging its global expertise and local partnerships, RHG has established itself as a key player in India’s hospitality sector, catering to diverse markets from metropolitan hubs to emerging tier-2 and tier-3 cities. With a portfolio of nine distinctive brands in India, RHG offers tailored experiences for every type of traveller, from luxury lifestyle to midscale. By strategically expanding its footprint, the Group not only enhances accessibility for travellers but also drives socio-economic growth in regions across the country.

Headquartered in Belgium, the Group’s European roots inspire its global operations and partnerships. India and Belgium share strong trade relations, with bilateral trade estimated at over $15.07 billion in 2023-24 and foreign direct investments (FDIs) from Belgium into India exceeding $3.94 billion. Both countries are actively working towards boosting trade relations and driving investment ties, creating significant opportunities across various sectors, including hospitality. Radisson Hotel Group’s expansion strategy in India aligns seamlessly with this mission, further strengthening the ties between Belgium and India while contributing to the broader economic development of both nations.

As India continues to emerge as a global tourism hub, RHG is committed to its growth trajectory, focusing on expanding its footprint in both metro and emerging markets. Recent developments include flagship openings such as the Radisson Collection Hotel & Spa, Riverfront Srinagar, Radisson Hatgad Saputara, Radisson Namah Resort and new signings in key destinations like Kasauli, Nathdwara, Raipur, Siliguri, and Chennai, showcasing the Group’s strategic focus on luxury and midscale segments. The Group’s strategy is to have 240 hotels in operation and under development in India by end of 2025, driven by a strategic focus on tier 2 and 3 markets and the increasing demand for luxury lifestyle and midscale accommodations.

“As a global hospitality leader, we are committed to deepening our ties between Belgium and India, two nations united by a shared vision for growth and collaboration. Our goal to expand to 240 hotels in operation and under development in India in 2025 reflects our commitment to this market, where we aim to redefine hospitality experiences, create value for our partners, and support local economies.

Leveraging our global expertise and a deep understanding of the Indian market, Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) is reshaping the hospitality landscape, particularly in emerging destinations across the country. The Belgian Economic Mission to the Republic of India presided over by HRH Princess Astrid of Belgium, Representative of His Majesty the King presents an opportunity to strengthen our partnerships and explore new avenues to expand our impact across the region.” said Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director and Area Senior Vice President, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group (RHG).

“The Belgian Economic Mission in India presents a significant opportunity to strengthen the growing ties between India and Belgium, particularly in the hospitality sector. Being one of the first international hotel brands to establish a presence in India over 26 years ago, Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) has played a key role in the evolution of India’s hospitality landscape.

As this sector continues to expand, we remain focused on supporting the economy, enhancing guest experiences, and driving sustainable growth across both metro and smaller cities. This mission provides an opportunity for us to explore new avenues for collaboration and further deepen our role in contributing to India’s vibrant hospitality ecosystem.” said K.B. Kachru, Chairman, Radisson Hotel Group South Asia.

Radisson Hotel Group’s has been headquartered in Brussels, Belgium for 35 years. The group’s participation in the Belgian Economic Mission underscores its dedication to fostering international partnerships, driving socio-economic growth, and contributing to India’s dynamic hospitality landscape. By leveraging its global heritage and aligning with India’s evolving tourism and trade opportunities, the Group is poised to play a pivotal role in supporting the nation’s emergence as a leading destination for global travellers.

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An 80-key Luxury Oberoi Resort that will carry the “vilas” name, symbolising unparalleled luxury and personalised service as part of its branding. The second will be a distinctive 120-key five-star hotel with the Trident branding. Both hotels will be managed by EIH Limited, The Oberoi Group’s flagship company. 

Set amidst a breathtaking 60-acre site, embraced by the Ganges on three sides, these resorts will offer an unparalleled retreat near Rishikesh. The Oberoi Resort, carrying the “vilas” name and the Trident Resort are owned and being developed by Devprayag Ganges Resorts Pvt Ltd., and Jamuna Hotel Enterprises Pvt Ltd. respectively, both entities of The Ladhani Group. World renowned architect, Bill Bensley has been entrusted with designing these exceptional hotels, blending luxury with the natural beauty and spiritual essence of Rishikesh.

The two resorts in Rishikesh to be managed by EIH Limited are in addition to the 19 properties previously announced as part of EIH Ltd.’s ambitious growth strategy, that includes 16 hotels, two luxury boats, and a Nile cruiser to be completed by 2029. 

S.N Ladhani, Chairman of The Ladhani Group & SLMG Beverages Pvt Ltd., commented, “We are beyond excited to collaborate with The Oberoi Group, a brand synonymous with excellence in hospitality. Rishikesh is a destination of immense cultural and natural significance, and we are committed to developing resorts that celebrate its beauty while offering guests world-class experiences. With The Oberoi Group’s legendary expertise in hospitality and Bill Bensley’s visionary design, we are confident that the two resorts will set new benchmarks in luxury hospitality. This project, under my guidance, will be spearheaded by my grandchildren, Simran Ladhani & Rachit Ladhani.” 

Arjun Oberoi, Executive Chairman, The Oberoi Group said, “These two resorts reflect our unwavering commitment to expanding our presence in remarkable destinations. In partnership with The Ladhani Group, we are set to create a distinctive experience in Rishikesh, where the unique setting and Bill Bensley’s design expertise will come together to offer guests an oasis of luxury, tranquillity, and Oberoi’s legendary hospitality.”

Vikram Oberoi, CEO & MD, The Oberoi Group further added, “We are delighted to partner with The Ladhani Group on these exceptional resorts. As we continue to expand, our goal remains to create extraordinary hotels with strong financial performance in both city and leisure destinations that blend the very best in luxury, culture and heritage with personalised service that is distinctively Oberoi.”

With planning already underway, construction of the two resorts in Rishikesh is expected to begin in early 2026. These developments mark another important milestone in The Oberoi Group’s continued growth, reinforcing its leadership in luxury hospitality.

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Signia by Hilton’s debut in India follows the recent opening of Signia by Hilton Amman, the first Signia by Hilton hotel outside of the United States, as the brand aims to grow its portfolio with highly anticipated properties in key gateway locations.

Developed in partnership with Sandeep Bakshi and Family LLP, the 216-bedroom hotel in Jaipur is set to open in 2028. Hilton currently operates two hotels in Rajasthan which include Hilton Jaipur and DoubleTree by Hilton Jaipur Amer. 

Alan Watts, President, Asia Pacific, Hilton, said, “This signing marks the exciting debut of our Signia by Hilton brand in Asia Pacific, as we further deploy Hilton’s award-winning luxury portfolio to expand our premium offerings in key gateway destinations. Jaipur’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant tourism sector and growing significance as a thriving business hub makes it the perfect backdrop for Signia by Hilton, as we continue to diversify and accelerate our presence in India.”

Located 28km from Jaipur International Airport, with seamless access to the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway (NE-4), the new property is just a three-hour drive from Gurugram, making it ideally positioned to attract travelers from Delhi NCR, a major domestic source market. 

Sandeep Bakshi, Managing Partner, Sandeep Bakshi and Family LLP, said, “Jaipur has long been synonymous with luxury, heritage and world-class hospitality. As Rajasthan continues to attract discerning luxury travelers and high-profile business guests, the arrival of Signia by Hilton marks a pivotal moment in elevating the city’s hospitality stature. We’re excited to collaborate with Hilton to bring this brand to the city which is beaming with growing demand from luxury guests and business travelers.”

Akansha Bakshi, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Sandeep Bakshi and Family LLP, added, “Our vision is to bring a world-class luxury experience to Jaipur, blending contemporary elegance with the city’s rich cultural heritage. Signia by Hilton will offer an elevated experience tailored to discerning travelers and event planners looking for world-class services. With this property, we are poised to meet the needs of business leaders, global travelers, and those seeking opulent celebrations and event experiences.”

Designed to meet the growing demand for world-class meetings and events coupled with an exceptional stay, the property will include more than 2,250 square meters of event space, including a 9,700 square foot grand ballroom. Guests can choose from stylish standard rooms, executive suites and private pool villas. Highlights include the exclusive Club Signia lounge, a striking artificial lagoon, and diverse dining options with four outlets. Additional amenities, including a spa, fitness center, pools, and a kids’ club, make it a premier destination for both business and leisure travelers.

Clarence Tan, Senior Vice President, Development, Asia Pacific, said, “The signing of Signia by Hilton Jaipur puts us on track to more than double our luxury estate in India following the signings of Waldorf Astoria Jaipur and Conrad Jaipur, which highlights our commitment to serving sophisticated luxury customers seeking vibrant offerings that meet both business and leisure needs.”

Signia by Hilton participates in Hilton Honors®, the award-winning guest-loyalty program for Hilton’s 24 distinct hotel brands. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount that can’t be found anywhere else and free standard WiFi. Members also enjoy popular digital tools available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app, where Hilton Honors members can check-in, choose their room and access their room using a Digital Key.

Hilton’s portfolio of trading and pipeline hotels in South Asia now stands at 64, reflecting the company’s strong growth trajectory and underscoring its commitment to establishing a formidable presence in the region. 

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With nearly 6 years of experience  in luxury hospitality, Harsh will be spearheading the F&B operations at the soul-stirring destination.  Known for his innovative hospitality skills and leadership expertise, he remains steadfast in his  commitment to upholding the highest standards of service and excellence. 

Harsh is a highly experienced professional with a proven track record in managerial and leadership roles  across diverse culinary environments. His extensive expertise is complemented by exceptional  communication skills and a deep understanding of spiritual destinations. Starting his career as a Hotel  Operations Trainee at Taj Nadesar Palace, Varanasi, Harsh embarked on a journey that has seen him excel  in various roles within the Taj Group. His dedication and growth within the company led to his promotion  to Catering Assistant at both Taj Ganges and Taj Nadesar Palace, Varanasi, after just one year. In 2019,  Harsh further advanced his career by assuming the role of Restaurant Manager at Taj Nadesar Palace,  Varanasi. 

Commenting on the appointment, Vikas Nagar, Hotel Manager, Pilibhit House, Haridwar- IHCL  SeleQtions stated, “We are excited to welcome Harsh Rawat to the Pilibhit House team. With his exceptional dedication and impressive journey at Varanasi, we are confident that he will significantly enhance our F&B operations and take them to newer heights. His extensive knowledge and leadership  skills will introduce innovative ideas, further strengthening our commitment to excellence.” 

Harsh Rawat holds a B Sc. in Hotel Management from the reputed International Institute of Hotel  Management, New Delhi. Furthermore, he is certified Level 2 Expert from the Wine and Spirit Education  Trust Certification and has successfully completed Front of House Service Excellence Program by the  British Butler Institute adding feathers to his existing skillset.  

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Organized in Porvorim, this historic theatrical tribute transported audiences back to the 17th century, showcasing the courage, vision, and relentless spirit of one of India’s greatest warriors.

The Housing Board Ground in Porvorim was transformed into a sea of spectators, with thousands of people gathering in an overwhelming show of admiration and respect for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The sheer scale of the crowd, to witness this grand spectacle, was a testament to the deep reverence Shivaji Maharaj commands even today. People stood shoulder to shoulder, cheering, applauding, and immersing themselves in this once-in-a-lifetime theatrical experience. The electric energy, roaring chants, and emotional resonance in the air made it clear—Shiv Shahi was not just a play; it was a movement that rekindled the true spirit in Goa.

Written, produced, and directed by Mahendra Mahadik, Shiv Shahi left the Goan audience spellbound with stunning performances, a massive revolving stage, and a larger-than-life retelling of Shivaji Maharaj’s legendary battles and conquests. Featuring over 150 artists, real horses, bullock carts, a golden plough, and a breathtaking 18-foot ship named Konkani, the play brought history to life with cinematic intensity. The five-floor set, crowned with a revolving tower and a towering 12-foot idol of Goddess Bhavani, served as a powerful backdrop to the awe-inspiring tale of valour and strategy.

One of the most gripping moments of the performance was the dramatic confrontation between Shivaji Maharaj and Afzal Khan, a scene that held audiences on the edge of their seats as the Maratha warrior’s legendary foresight and unmatched battle tactics unfolded in a mesmerizing spectacle.

The significance of bringing ‘Shiv Shahi’ to Goa was profound. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s historical ties to Goa, his conquests against the Adil Shahs, and his unwavering commitment to safeguarding cultural and religious freedom deeply resonate with the Goan spirit. It was in Goa that the first written accounts of Shivaji Maharaj emerged, as Portuguese traveler Cosme De Guarda documented the immense admiration Goans held for the Maratha ruler.

The Department of Tourism, under the visionary leadership of Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, played a crucial role in bringing this grand spectacle to Goa, reinforcing the state’s commitment to preserving and promoting cultural tourism. Speaking on the success of ‘Shiv Shahi,’ Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte remarked, “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy is a guiding force for generations.

Goa shares a profound historical and cultural connection with the Maratha Empire, and it is our responsibility to ensure that such glorious chapters of history are brought to life. Through ‘Shiv Shahi,’ we have not only celebrated his valor but also reinforced Goa’s role in India’s grand historical narrative. This is more than a play—it is a movement that ignites pride and consciousness among Goans.”

Hon’ble Rajya Sabha Member Shri Sadanand Shet Tanawade praised the event, stating, “Shivaji Maharaj’s ideals of Swaraj, bravery, and justice are timeless. ‘Shiv Shahi’ is a magnificent tribute, and seeing Goa embrace this historic production with such enthusiasm is truly heartening.”

Emphasizing the department’s commitment, Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik said, “The Department of Tourism is committed to promoting Goa’s rich cultural heritage through events like ‘Shiv Shahi.’ This production has set a benchmark for historical storytelling in the state, and we look forward to more such grand initiatives.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC, added, “Shivaji Maharaj’s connection with Goa is undeniable, and ‘Shiv Shahi’ has successfully revived that legacy. The response from the audience has been overwhelming, proving that history, when told with passion, continues to inspire.”

With a packed audience, standing ovations, and an electrifying atmosphere, Shiv Shahi in Goa was a historic success, reaffirming the state’s dedication to celebrating its deep-rooted history. The Department of Tourism remains steadfast in its mission to bring forth such cultural initiatives that preserve, educate, and inspire.

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