The LaLiT Mumbai has etched its name in history as the host of India’s first-ever internationally recognized sommelier competition, organized in partnership with the Sommeliers Association of India (SAI). This groundbreaking event marks a new milestone for India’s wine industry, providing a platform for aspiring sommeliers to showcase their skills and pave their way to global recognition.

A Historic Collaboration

Held on 23rd January 2025 at The LaLiT Lawn, this competition is a first-of-its-kind alliance between SAI and a hospitality group in India. The event sets the stage for the SAI Best Sommelier of India Competition, which serves as a qualifier for prestigious international contests like the ASI Contest Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific and the ASI Contest Best Sommelier of the World.

Prestigious Presence

The competition brought together some of India’s finest sommeliers, who demonstrated their expertise before a distinguished panel of judges. The event also welcomed representatives from celebrated wine brands, including:

• Good Drop Wines
• Fratelli Wines
• Grover Zampa
• Angel’s Share
• Vallonne Vineyards
• Rad Elan

Prominent industry leaders, including Nina Basset FIH, Saiko Tamura Soga (ASI Vice President, Asia & Pacific), Henri Chapon MS, Sonal Holland MW (India’s first and only Master of Wine), and Reva K. Singh (Founder and Editor-in-Chief, Sommelier India Wine Magazine), also graced the event, creating a platform for networking, learning, and celebrating excellence in the world of wine.

The LaLiT’s Commitment to Innovation

Known for consistently raising the bar in the hospitality industry, The LaLiT Mumbai hosted this event as part of its ongoing efforts to foster innovation and excellence. Speaking about this historic occasion, Charles Donnadieu, Corporate Sommelier of The LaLiT Suri Hospitality Group, stated:
"The Sommelier Competition by the Sommeliers Association of India is an undertaking to elevate the Indian wine industry. By hosting this competition, The LaLiT aims to empower aspiring sommeliers, foster innovation, and position India on the global wine map."

A Milestone for India’s Wine Industry

With this initiative, The LaLiT Mumbai has not only set a new benchmark in hospitality but also created opportunities for Indian sommeliers to shine on global platforms. This event represents a significant leap toward promoting wine culture in India, fostering talent, and celebrating the art of sommeliership.

Ambica Empire Hotel, a leading name in Chennai’s hospitality landscape, achieved a remarkable feat at the Tamil Nadu Leadership Awards 2024, held at Taj Club House, Chennai. The prestigious event, endorsed by CMO Asia, World Federation of Hospitality Professionals, and Stars of the Industry Group, saw the participation of celebrated personalities from the hospitality industry.

Ambica Empire was honored with the title of "Luxury Business Hotel of the Year 2024" in recognition of its exceptional service standards and commitment to guest satisfaction. The award was presented by Dr. Sanjeev Seth, Managing Director of IL&FS Tamil Nadu Power Company Limited, and Mr. Raji Thomas, Chief Corporate Relations & Outreach Officer at Indira Group of Institutes, Pune.

Adding to the accolades, Mr. R. Kalathinathan, General Manager of Hotel Ambica Empire, was bestowed with the prestigious Tamil Nadu’s Best General Managers Award in the Hospitality Industry for 2024. Known for his exceptional leadership and dedication, Mr. Kalathinathan has consistently exceeded expectations, ensuring the success of 4-star and 5-star properties under his management.

Mr. Kalathinathan's illustrious career is decorated with numerous achievements, including the Hospitality Leadership Award by Golden Star Awards and recognition for Best Performance and Best Service in the Industry. He is a respected figure in the hospitality community, frequently featured in television interviews, newspapers, magazines, and social media platforms for his contributions to the field.

Speaking about their success, the hotel shared their heartfelt motto, “Home Away from Home”, emphasizing their commitment to creating memorable experiences for their guests. “Guests who stay with us always stay with us,” proudly echoed the team at Ambica Empire.

For reservations, contact 044-23621818 and experience the unmatched hospitality that makes Ambica Empire a true gem in Chennai’s hotel industry.

GRT Hotels & Resorts took a significant step toward inclusivity this World Braille Day, launching an initiative aimed at enhancing accessibility for individuals with visual impairments. With the initiative rolled out across most of the group's 22 properties, the hospitality brand reaffirms its commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all guests.

The cornerstone of this initiative was the introduction of Braille menus at all of GRT Hotels & Resorts' all-day dining restaurants, including those at Grand by GRT Hotels, Regency by GRT Hotels, Radisson GRT Hotels, and GReaT Trails by GRT Hotels. This move ensures a more accessible and personalized dining experience for guests with visual disabilities.

To commemorate the occasion, GRT Hotels & Resorts hosted special events at two of its flagship properties—Grand Chennai by GRT and Radisson Blu Hotel & Suites GRT Chennai. During these events, visually impaired guests were invited to enjoy a curated lunch and experience the newly launched Braille menus firsthand. Additionally, other properties collaborated with local NGOs to host similar events, bringing together the community and raising awareness about accessibility in hospitality.

Mr. Vikram Cotah, CEO of GRT Hotels & Resorts, shared his thoughts on the success of the initiative: “World Braille Day reminds us of the importance of creating spaces that are inclusive and welcoming for everyone. We are delighted with the warm response of our visually impaired guests. With this initiative, we continue to promote accessible hospitality, celebrate inclusivity and diversity while setting new standards for responsible hospitality.”

Event Highlights:

• Braille Menu Launch: Newly designed Braille menus are now available across all properties, excluding Zibe hotels, ensuring a more inclusive dining experience.
• Community Collaboration: Events were hosted in collaboration with local NGOs to celebrate the milestone with visually impaired guests.
• Special Lunches: Radisson Chennai and Grand Chennai led the celebrations with exclusive luncheons for visually impaired guests.

About GRT Hotels & Resorts:

Founded in 1998 as an extension of GRT Jewellers, GRT Hotels & Resorts is a leading name in South India’s hospitality industry, boasting 22 upscale hotels and luxury resorts across South India. With a presence in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, the group is set to expand internationally, with future plans for destinations such as the Maldives.

The group’s sub-brands—Grand by GRT Hotels, Regency by GRT Hotels, Zibe by GRT Hotels, and GReaT Trails by GRT Hotels—cater to both business and leisure travelers. GRT Hotels & Resorts also boasts partnerships with the Radisson Group, including four hotels and resorts in Mahabalipuram, Pondicherry, Chennai, and Bengaluru.

As one of the fastest-growing hospitality chains in South India, GRT Hotels & Resorts is on track to reach 25 properties by 2025. With a strong presence in the food and beverage sector and wellness offerings like Bodhi Spa, GRT continues to set the bar for sustainable and bespoke guest experiences.