Today’s Traveller, India’s leading travel, tourism, hospitality, and aviation magazine, hosted the distinguished Leadership Discussions and presented the prestigious Today’s Traveller Awards in a magnificent event at the Taj Palace, New Delhi on October 5th, celebrating 26 years of excellence.
The splendid anniversary event was orchestrated by the elegant Shivani Wazir Pasrich and witnessed the participation of over 400 elite celebrities, dignitaries, and trailblazers from the travel and hospitality industry, marking a milestone of persistent excellence amidst the challenges of a global revival and transformation.
Kamal Gill, the Executive Editor of Today’s Traveller Magazine and Managing Director of Gill India Group, initiated the evening with a rousing address, shedding light on the resilient leadership that spearheaded revival across hospitality, aviation, and tourism sectors. The spirit of the ‘Transformation’ has been encapsulated in the theme of the Collector’s edition, reflecting transformative strategies that shaped success during these interesting times.
She pointed out in her address, “Today, we don’t just commemorate an anniversary; we celebrate a journey— of the unwavering spirit of exploration and discovery that has defined our narrative at Today’s Traveller.”
“Transformation is the anthem of our times and we all live by it every day,” she said as she reflected on the theme of Today’s Traveller Celebrations, adding, “In essence, we are active participants, co-creators, and beneficiaries of the process of Transformation. From relationships born out of wanderlust to investments that shape the future of our explorations and technologies that enable us to reach new heights, every facet of our journey is intertwined with transformation.”
She made a special mention of gratitude to the sponsors who helped to make the event a grand success: Focus Brand Partner: Kandla Special Economic Zone; Gold Partner: Goa Tourism; Gold Partner: The Grand Venice Mall; Technology Partner: Frontline Performance Group; Gifting Partner: SoulTree and Experience Partner: One Hotels.
Navigating the Future: Insightful Leadership Panel Discussions at Today’s Traveller 26th Anniversary
Elevating conversations and navigating through the intricacies of the industry, the 26th Anniversary Event of Today’s Traveller delved deep into pivotal subjects during its expert-led panel discussions. The gathering was a rendezvous of thought leaders, innovators, and pioneers, generating insights that stirred the industry’s future direction amidst the ongoing global challenges.
Aviation Leaders Panel Discussions: Transforming the Skies
Moderated by Kapil Kaul, CEO – South Asia, Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation, this insightful discussion engaged key leaders of the aviation sector, exploring strategic responses to industry shifts and the profound transformations encountered amidst the sky of adversities.
Aviation Leaders including Mohammad Sarhan, Vice President – India and Nepal, Emirates, Arun Pandeya, General Manager and Country Head, Air Canada, Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales, IndiGo, and Praveen Iyer, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer, Akasa Air touched upon aspects like resilience, innovation, and strategic pivoting that airlines need to adopt to navigate through the rapidly changing times. They focussed on the indispensable role of visionary leadership in steering through new challenges of technology and policies across borders.
A concurrent audio-visual presentation by Goa Tourism, the Gold Partner, brought to the fore the mesmerizing allure and vibrant cultures of Goa, promising revitalization and memorable escapades for travellers amidst its scenic vistas.
Hospitality Leaders Panel Discussions: The Revenue Champions: Decoding the Impact of Frontline Associates in Hotels
The sector that arguably felt the pandemic’s repercussions, as well as its amazing revival most palpably, was in the spotlight with The Revenue Champions: Decoding the Impact of Frontline Associates in Hotels.
Hemant Mediratta, Chief Empowerment Officer, HMC, moderated a crucial dialogue amongst hospitality leaders including Anil Chadha, Divisional Chief Executive, ITC Hotels, Paul McLoughlin, International – President, Frontline Performance Group, Parveen Chander Kumar, Executive Vice President – Sales & Marketing, IHCL, Jatin Khanna, CEO, Sarovar Hotels Pvt Ltd, and Philip Logan, Chief Operating Officer, Royal Orchid Hotels
Their discussions revolved around critical strategies employed by hotels to safeguard and bolster revenue streams in these challenging times, shedding light on how frontline associates are pivotal in maintaining operational excellence and ensuring guest satisfaction amidst trying circumstances.
Investment Leaders Panel Discussions: Hotel Investment Landscape: Risk vs Reward
A thorough exploration of the investment climate within the hospitality industry, especially concerning hotels, was brought forth in this segment.
Rajiv Kaul, Founder, Kaul Advisory, mediated discussions amongst investment magnates like Gajjala Yoganand, CMD, Manjeera Group and Founder Trustee, GY Foundation, Ajay Bakaya, Managing Director, Sarovar Hotels & Resorts, Jaideep Dang, Managing Director, Hotels & Hospitality, JLL, and Ashish Vohra, Founder & CEO, Justa Hotels & Resorts.
A Frontrunner of Industry Insights
The aforementioned deliberations at the Today’s Traveller 26th Anniversary Event augmented a better understanding of the industry’s pulse, challenges, and future trajectory, thereby serving as a catalyst for adaptive strategies and innovative practices in the times ahead.
The discourse touched upon investment strategies, risk management, and foresightedness required in making investment decisions amidst a global crisis, underlining that calculated risks can burgeon into rewarding outcomes when aligned with strategic foresight and adept crisis management.
Today’s Traveller continued through these discussions in being the harbinger of pertinent discussions, industry insights, and celebrating milestones within the travel, hospitality, and aviation sectors. The evening was further enriched by an array of illuminating talks and special addresses.
Tete-à-Tete: Hotel Dilemma: Franchise Vs Management presented by Nathan Andrews and Nikhil Sharma.
An exclusive tête-à-tête featuring Nathan Andrews, Strategic Advisor, DS Group, a distinguished veteran in hospitality and real estate, alongside Panellist, Nikhil Sharma, the Market Managing Director of the Eurasia Region for Wyndham Hotels and Resorts elevated the dialogues at Today’s Traveller’s Hospitality Leadership Discussion 2023.
The session delivered on its promise to unveil a wealth of actionable insights as both speakers explored the intricate web of challenges and possibilities inherent in hotel Management and Franchising. The enlightening discussion reflected both hotel owners and hotel management companies’ viewpoints on strategies for revenue enhancement and long-term growth.
A special address on ‘Cultural Values and Heritage Conservation’ by Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar
A compelling special address by Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, Executive Director, HRH Hotels Pvt Ltd was received by tumultuous applause.
Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar’s family legacy spans over eight centuries, serving as the guardians of the Mewar region’s cultural treasures. As the driving force behind HRH Hotels, Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar skilfully melded heritage conservation with modern-day hospitality, setting an example in sustainable tourism.
Captivating hearts in the audience, Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar’s special address was nothing short of transformative. His words echoed through the hall, resonating with all—from seasoned industry professionals to emerging entrepreneurs. His future-forward thinking sparkling with wit amidst deeply relevant issues, was met with waves of applause and awe, seeding inspiration across the audience.
A special address by Illustrious Nakul Anand, Executive Director, ITC Limited, on ‘Sustainability – The Next Level’
The evening was illuminated by a thought-provoking address on ‘Sustainability – The Next Level,’ delivered by none other than India’s Green Champion, Nakul Anand, Executive Director of ITC Limited.
Championing the ‘Responsible Luxury’ initiative, Nakul Anand seamlessly melded sustainability with lifestyle, directing ITC Hotels towards blossoming as a verdant haven with sustainability at its soul. The tale of ITC Hotels’ growth is interwoven with a staunch belief in sustainability, as affirmed by Anand: “Saving the planet ultimately equates to saving ourselves.” A sentiment that not only reflected his leadership vision but also aligned with India’s broader mission of reducing emissions towards a sustainable collective future.
A testament to this commitment was the stellar achievement where 10 properties of ITC Hotels have achieved the distinguished “Net Zero Carbon Status”, awarded the “LEED Zero Carbon Certification” by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). This unshakeable dedication to eco-awareness as a fundamental pillar of his philosophy for over a decade was the leitmotif of his scintillating Address.
Celebrating a Silver Milestone: Radisson Hotel Group Marks 25 Years of Excellence in India
The sparkle at Today’s Traveller 26th Anniversary Celebrations was notably amplified by concurrently commemorating the Silver Jubilee of the Radisson Hotel Group, honouring their 25 years of successful operations in India.
The Radisson Hotel Group’s remarkable ascent over the past 25 years is a testament to countless man-hours, thorough planning, and judicious use of resources, fueling consistent and substantial growth.
Two champions, K B Kachru, Chairman Emeritus and Principal Advisor South Asia, and Zubin Saxena, Managing Director and Area Senior Vice President, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group graced the stage, reflecting on the triumphant 25-year passage and envisioning the road ahead.
Embarking on a nostalgic journey down memory lane, K B Kachru, with his over three-decade association, spoke of navigating the brand through the years, etching Radisson as a key player in Indian hospitality. His speech vibrated emotionally with the audience and he received a standing ovation from the 400-plus leaders of the industry.
Zubin Saxena took forward the Radisson story with how the Radisson Hotel Group will continue to command a leading presence in the Indian market, marking RHG as one of the nation’s largest international hotel operators
Their speeches, an amalgamation of emotional and proud moments, highlighted the synergy between pioneering strategies and the vibrant new drive propelling the brand forward. Under their leadership, Radisson Hotel Group has not just thrived but substantially expanded, ensuring a Radisson within every 4-hour drivable distance nationally.
The hall pulsated with high energy, with the exuberant RHG team lighting up the stage with their pride and achievements. The audience erupted to cheers and raised a virtual toast to 25 years of unwavering dedication, robust growth, and an unparalleled hospitality experience.
A Night to Remember: Cover Launch of Today’s Traveller Collector’s Edition ‘Transformation’ and the Prestigious Today’s Traveller Awards 2023
The luminous launch of the Collector’s Issue ‘Transformation’ was graced by the esteemed presence of Justice Jasti Chelameswar, Former Judge, Supreme Court of India and Chief Justice of Kerala High Court and Guwahati High Court, along with Vinod Duggal, Former Governor – Mizoram and Manipur, Nakul Anand, Executive Director ITC Limited, KB Kachru, Chairman Emeritus & Principle Advisor, RHG and Rajiv Kaul, Founder, Kaul Advisory
Chief Guest Jasti Chelameswar, Former Judge, of the Supreme Court of India and Chief Justice of Kerala High Court and Guwahati High Court, also presented the Today’s Traveller Awards, recognizing stellar contributions across various domains for 2023.
Today’s Traveller Awards 2023 recognised and honoured outstanding performers in the corporate, hospitality, travel and tourism industries. The annual Today’s Traveller Awards celebrated winners who have pushed the boundaries of excellence, customer satisfaction, and ground-breaking strategies. The celebrations carried through the evening over cocktails and dinner.
Before closing, the organisers expressed their heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors, panellists, speakers, dignitaries, and attendees who made the event a monumental success.
Going forward, Today’s Traveller continues to play its role as more than a successful magazine and a portal– but also as a curator of news, trends, and future shifts in the travel, hospitality, and aviation sectors. As Today’s Traveller marks this momentous occasion, the team remains committed to bringing forth insightful and thought-leading content and celebrating and fostering visionary leadership in the travel, tourism, hotels, and aviation industries.
Today’s Traveller Awards Winners 2023
Goa Tourism – Best All-Season Destination
Kandla Special Economic Zone – Most Promising Government Initiative for Infrastructural Development
ITC Hotels – Pride of India Recognition for ITC Hotels for showcasing Brand India’s Culinary Heritage at G20 Summit, Bharat Mandapam
IHCL – Best Hotel Global Sales & Marketing Organisation
The Ritz-Carlton, Bangalore – Best Luxury Business Hotel in Bangalore
Taj Hotels – Best Luxury Hotel Chain
JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru – Best Business Hotel in Bengaluru
Andaz Delhi – Best Luxury Business Hotel in Delhi
Radisson Blu Mumbai International Airport – Best Lifestyle Business Hotel in Mumbai
Resort World Cruises – Best Cruise Line for On-board Entertainment
ITC Maratha – Best Luxury Spa Hotel in Mumbai
Fairmont Jaipur – Best Luxury Environmentally Responsible Hotel in Jaipur
Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Alibaug – Best 5-Star Resort Hotel in Alibaug
Crowne Plaza Kochi – Best Luxury MICE Hotel in Kochi
Oakwood Residence Kapil Hyderabad – Best Premium Lifestyle Residences/Service Apartments in Hyderabad
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts – Best International Hotel Chain
Mementos by ITC Hotels Ekaaya Udaipur – Best 5-Star Resort Hotel in Udaipur
Fortune Park Hotels – Premier Upscale Hotel Chain
Radisson Hotel Group – Most Promising Hotel Chain
Visit Oulu, Pohjola Route Finland – Best Destination for Sustainable Tourism
The Grand Venice Mall – Most Innovative Transformation of Mall and Retail Space
Bloom Hotels – Best Hotel Chain for Customer Satisfaction
Radisson Hotel Group – Best Hotel Group Website
JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar – Best Luxury Business Hotel in Mumbai
South African Tourism – Best Adventure Tourism Destination
Radisson Blu Hotel GRT Chennai – Best Luxury MICE Hotel in Chennai
Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach – Best Leisure Hotel in Visakhapatnam
Karma Lakelands – For Hospitality Excellence
BRANDit India – Best Company for International Tourism Representation
Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel – Trendiest Business Hotel in Bengaluru
Sterling Holidays Resorts – Best Domestic Hotel Chain
Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Spa, Udaipur – Best Wedding Hotel in Udaipur
TRAC Representations (I) Pvt Ltd – Best International Representation for Interactive Trade Shows
Le Meridien New Delhi – Best Wedding Hotel in New Delhi
Eleven Inc. – Best Integrated Marketing Communications Agency
PLUGD – Best Architectural Design Studio for Designing F&B Spaces at Airports and Highways
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