Hospitality Through Bhawna's Lens: A Unique Perspective

Admin

Published on March 4, 2024

Discover how Bhawna's passion for hospitality drives her success in managing and inspiring hotel teams.

In this issue, we are privileged to spotlight an accomplished professional from the hospitality industry, whose career journey is a testament to resilience, skill, and leadership. Graduating from IHM Meerut in 2007, our featured guest has since accumulated 16 years of comprehensive experience across the spectrum of hotel operations, with a particular emphasis on housekeeping. Their professional evolution is remarkable, progressing from Manager of Operations to achieving the pinnacle role of General Manager during their tenure at various esteemed hotels in Patiala. This trajectory not only reflects their adeptness in navigating the complexities of hotel management but also their dedication to fostering environments of excellence and innovation. Our guest's story is a compelling narrative of personal and professional growth, underscored by a relentless pursuit of excellence in service and operational management. As we engage in this conversation, we look forward to uncovering the insights and strategies that have propelled their success in the hospitality sector, offering valuable lessons for aspiring professionals and industry veterans alike.

Can you describe your approach in designing and implementing Training programs for Suba Hotels? How do you ensure they effectively meet the needs of employees and the organization?

Our training programs are meticulously crafted, taking into account the operational challenges, employees' aspirations, and the necessity for a continuous learning curve integrated into their daily responsibilities. The development of these programs is spearheaded by Mr. Jaspal Singh Bhatia, Vice President of Operations, who relies on ongoing needs assessments specific to the hotel environment to ensure relevance and effectiveness.

As the lone female trainer, how do you foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all employees, regardless of gender or background?

We prioritize creating an environment where every employee, irrespective of gender or background, feels empowered to pursue growth opportunities. By delineating clear career pathways, we adhere to Suba Hotels' engagement principles. My role as a female trainer adds an additional layer of assurance, encouraging all staff to push beyond perceived limitations. Our extensive training schedule, spanning from early morning to late evening, offers numerous opportunities for employees to enhance and apply new skills directly in the workplace.

What strategies do you employ to assess training needs within Suba Hotels and adapt your training programs accordingly?

At Suba Hotels, we utilize a robust online feedback system accessible via QR scans, inviting guests to share their experiences directly. This, combined with competitive analysis, continuous employee evaluations, and an understanding of evolving business landscapes, enables us to align our training initiatives with the organization's growth trajectory and talent development from within.

In your opinion, what are the most important qualities or skills for a successful trainer in the hospitality industry, and how do you embody these qualities in your role?

The cornerstone qualities for a trainer in our industry are patience, persuasion, and persistence. My aim is to infuse every learning opportunity with enjoyment while preparing employees for diverse guest service situations. By adapting learning opportunities to fit within employees' schedules, we minimize classroom sessions, emphasizing on-the-job learning that meets real-time guest expectations.

How do you stay updated on industry trends and best practices in training and development?

Adhering to the principle that "Learning never stops," I continuously seek new knowledge through sessions led by Mr. Jaspal Singh Bhatia, VP Operations. This commitment ensures I remain at the forefront of training delivery, engaging employees effectively within our learning ecosystem.

Collaboration with other departments is essential in a hotel setting. How do you ensure alignment between training initiatives and the goals of different departments within Suba Hotels?

Aligning our training efforts with departmental objectives is critical to achieving guest satisfaction through standardized processes. This alignment is continuously validated through guest feedback, TripAdvisor rankings, and Google reviews, ensuring our service standards are consistently met or exceeded.

As Assistant Manager Training, you may encounter resistance or skepticism from employees regarding the value of training. How do you address such challenges and effectively communicate the importance of continuous learning and development?

Addressing employee concerns begins with clarifying the personal benefits of training sessions, emphasizing their role in personal development and contribution to building intellectual capital. Demonstrating the direct impact of training on career growth fosters a more receptive attitude towards implementing new skills in their roles.

How do you address such challenges and effectively communicate the importance of continuous learning and development?

Our focus is to make learning initiatives valuable for every employee, facilitating the application of new skills to streamline tasks and enhance service quality. By employing a variety of engaging methodologies such as quizzes, assessments, and role-playing, we ensure that learning is accessible, practical, and directly contributes to enhancing both the guest experience and internal operations.

This Interview is Published Exclusively on HospitalityNews.in.

PGC Chennai: Where Lifestyle, Leisure and Family Experiences Come Together

Ms. Sonali Jain,

Published on December 1, 2025

Ponneri Gymkhana Club (PGC) has emerged as one of North Chennai’s most dynamic lifestyle and hospitality destinations. Spanning 60,000 sq. ft., it stands as the region’s largest and most integrated family club, offering a unique blend of recreation, sports, celebrations, wellness and stay experiences under one expansive space.

In an engaging conversation with Hospitality News, Ms. Sonali Jain, Managing Partner of PGC, shared the vision that guides the club’s growth. Her clarity, warmth and community-first approach define PGC’s identity. “Our goal at PGC is simple. We want every guest and every member to feel valued, cared for and connected. Hospitality should make people feel at home, and that is what we strive for,” she notes.

Her vision translates into a thoughtfully designed destination for every member of the family. The club features over 170 rooms and suites, a grand 800-seater banquet hall, a 5,000-capacity open lawn and facilities for 12 sports including badminton, squash, cricket, golf and table tennis. It also houses a pool party lawn, gym, spa, salon, private theatre, multi-cuisine restaurant, café and business lounge. Enhancing its culinary offerings, PGC now includes a dedicated Pure Vegetarian Kitchen, ensuring elevated hygiene, tradition and comfort.

PGC has become a preferred venue for weddings, corporate events, celebrations, vacations and fitness experiences. Its membership offers strong lifestyle value with complimentary stays, full facility access, priority bookings and a vibrant community environment.

Founder & Managing Director Mr. Rajeev Ajmera reinforces this purpose, “North Chennai deserved a world-class leisure and sports destination. Our objective was to build a space that families can truly call their own.” His vision continues to shape PGC as a benchmark for hospitality and community living.

Guests and prospective members are invited to explore a destination that truly feels like home, Read more details and the full article in our Hospitality News December edition, available on our website and in print.

Moth to Flame – A Hotelier’s Journey Illuminating Indian Hospitality

PK Mohankumar

Published on December 1, 2025

"Moth to Flame” is one of those rare stories that lingers in the heart long after the final page. Authored by veteran hotelier P. K. Mohankumar, fondly known as PKMK, the book transcends the boundaries of a traditional memoir. It is a poetic reflection on a life shaped by humility, purpose, and an unwavering devotion to the art of hospitality. Born in the serene city of Trivandrum, Mohankumar chose a path less travelled when he pursued hotel management at the prestigious Institute of Hotel Management, Mumbai, an unconventional decision at a time when engineering, medicine, and civil services dominated aspirations.

The book gracefully follows his rise through the Indian Hotels Company Limited (Tata Group), where he spent over four decades contributing to the soul of Indian hospitality. From the corridors of the iconic Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, to his leadership roles as Managing Director and CEO of Taj Gateway and Ginger Hotels, his journey reflects a deep belief that hospitality is not merely a profession but a calling built on empathy and service. Along the way, readers encounter rare insights from his interactions with visionaries such as the late J. R. D. Tata and the late Ratan Tata.

Mohankumar also offers an intimate look at balancing an intense career with family life, anchoring his journey in discipline, integrity, and meaningful moments despite the demands of the industry. Honoured with the Hall of Fame Award by IHM Dadar and the Lifetime Achievement Award by TajLifers Collective, he continues to guide the next generation.

“Moth to Flame” stands as an inspiring tribute to passion, purpose, and the timeless spirit of hospitality.

It was a truly inspiring journey and knowing about PK Mohankumar, whose leadership continues to redefine the essence of modern hospitality. This was an engaging and insightful conversation, and readers can explore the complete article in the Hospitality News – December Edition, available on our website and in print.

About the Book

Title: Moth to Flame

Author: P. K. Mohankumar

Genre: Memoir, Hospitality and Leadership

Now available for readers and dreamers who believe that true hospitality begins with heart.

To order your hard copy of “Moth to Flame,” please fill out the form below and complete the payment via GPay: https://forms.gle/dbt5BM4u3iMZtP726

After payment, share a screenshot for confirmation. Your copy will be delivered within 10 working days.

The Future of Resort Investments in India by Dinesh Yadav

Dinesh Yadav

Published on December 1, 2025

In an exclusive feature for Hospitality News, we spoke with Dinesh Yadav, Founder & MD of Fine Acers, who shared sharp insights into the fast-evolving landscape of luxury resort investments in India. He explained that branded resorts operating on a sales-leaseback model are increasingly appealing as they offer consistent yields and long-term value appreciation.

With higher occupancy, premium pricing, and rising operating margins, branded properties continue to strengthen investor confidence. As India’s luxury hospitality segment matures, these resorts also command stronger resale values, lower operational risks, and predictable cash flows, especially when professionally managed by reputed hospitality brands.

Yadav highlighted that the Fine Acers model focuses on accessibility and risk mitigation by partnering with established hotel operators and creating structured opportunities that allow even smaller-ticket investors to participate in high-quality assets. Clearly outlined revenue-share models, lease arrangements, profit-sharing mechanisms, fixed returns, or minimum guarantees enhance transparency and reduce downside risk, while branded assets naturally enjoy greater appreciation due to sustained demand and brand credibility.

He further noted that India’s hospitality sector is poised to attract nearly USD 1 billion by 2028, supported by rising occupancy, ADR, and RevPAR across leisure segments. Fine Acers evaluates key indicators such as brand strength, tourism potential, contract structures, projected cash flows, and exit opportunities while assessing their resort portfolio.

According to Yadav, their structured sales-leaseback model stands apart from traditional real estate or independent hotel investments by offering minimal operational involvement, stronger brand advantages, and a more secure path for investors seeking exposure to luxury hospitality.

It was a truly inspiring conversation with Dinesh Yadav, whose leadership continues to redefine the essence of resort investmensts. This was an engaging and insightful conversation, and readers can explore the complete interview in the Hospitality News – December Edition, available on our website and in print.