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Published on April 2, 2024
In this exclusive interview, we delve into the illustrious career of Vinesh Gupta, General Manager of The Den in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
Vinesh Gupta brings over two decades of rich and diverse experience in the hospitality industry, currently serving as the General Manager of The Den in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. Beginning his journey with Hyatt Regency Delhi in 1994, Vinesh steadily climbed the ranks, showcasing his expertise in financial analysis and project management. During his tenure at Hyatt Regency, he served as Asst. Front Office Manager and later undertook various positions, including Regency Club Manager. Expanding his horizons, Vinesh joined The Imperial New Delhi as Front Office Manager, further honing his skills in guest relations and operations management.
His career trajectory led him to Taj Hotels, where he contributed as Front Office Manager at Taj Lands End Mumbai and Accommodations Manager at Taj Bengal Kolkata, showcasing proficiency in budgeting and financial analysis. Continuing his journey, Vinesh assumed the role of Executive Assistant Manager - Rooms at Shangri-La New Delhi, demonstrating his capabilities in overseeing room operations and ensuring guest satisfaction.
Further enriching his expertise, Vinesh served as Executive Assistant Manager at The Leela Palaces & Resorts, spearheading initiatives to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency. His career highlights include significant tenures with leading international hospitality brands such as Hilton, Wyndham Hotel Group, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, and Dan Hotels Israel.
1. What initially sparked your interest in pursuing a career in the hospitality industry, and how has that passion evolved over the years?
Studying Hospitality was more of an accident than a choice. I was bright & intelligent, but not studious; and the aspiration of alternate career landed me in hospitality. Initially, it was the excitement of doing something different – cooking, beverages, languages, etc. but later I developed a serious liking for this emotionally satisfying and a people centric business.
A successful hotelier must be passionate to the extent of just short of being eccentric. It is a demanding profession, where your passion drives the results. The early success drove me harder and my urge to better myself and improve, innovate & be impactful stretches my limits of passion
2. With your extensive experience across various renowned hotel chains, what key lessons have you learned that you believe differentiate exceptional hotel management from merely adequate management?
Humility and humanity in our leadership styles make us different. We are as good as our team, and I very strongly believe that the virtues mentioned above hold true for handling all stakeholders – be it guests, team members, owners, or corporate officers.
Leading by example and demonstrating it in front of your team will increase their will to perform and drive towards excellence both qualitatively and financially
3. As someone deeply involved in Food and Beverages, could you share a particular dining experience or innovation that you have spearheaded, which significantly enhanced guest satisfaction and loyalty?
There is always something happening at The Den. Surprising things, interesting things, enjoyable things – but you will always find something to stimulate you. Food & Beverage is all about touching the hearts of your guests.
One of the major challenges of any F&B operation is to give the first course to the guests in no time – and most of us falter here. At Layla, as soon as the guest enters, the waiter post greeting and seating , will bring the selection of Cold Mezze to visually pick and choose with hot Pita’s and then the Menu is given to the guest.
Being authentic, innovative, and original has always made us darling of our guests – be it Kanafe or a Filo Feta; Goat Milk Panacota or Shrimp Falafel; our small but crazy repertoire is our mantra to guest satisfaction
4. The Den prides itself on offering an environment where guests can seamlessly transition between eating, working, sleeping, and playing. How do you ensure that each aspect of this experience is meticulously curated to exceed guest expectations and create a memorable stay?
As a definition, Den is an informal, quiet, and comfortable room in a house where someone goes to read, work, play and relax; and we have taken it to our cores.
Eat Work Sleep Play is our DNA. At the heart of The Den is our authentic hospitality and a philosophy to do what you want do with comfort, panache and just a little edge. It is a place to sleep comfortably, work effectively, eat gloriously and play…well…we hope enjoyably.
Employee retention and morale are crucial for the success of any hotel. What initiatives have you introduced to promote staff engagement and career growth opportunities within the hotel?
We are as good as our teams is the basic premise at The Den. We are humane and humble. We practise the family values at workplace, and we believe in transparency.
The associates have a career path to be leaders and we have showcased the same where our team members have grown multiple levels and are in certain leadership roles.
We have our very own “The Den Academy” to nurture and develop the talent inhouse. All we ask for is the positive attitude, a will to work and need of the job.
5. In a competitive market like Bengaluru, attracting corporate clients is vital. What initiatives have you implemented to enhance The Den's appeal to business travellers and corporate events?
The Den is a Millennial Luxury hotel. We have our value systems and a very well-defined niche market. It is a very stylish and classy hotel and at The Den you expect everything to just work. And it does. Perfectly. But more than that, the guest experience you receive is completely seamless. Each one of our team members is trained to deliver our unique Den hospitality.
6. As a prominent establishment in the Whitefield business district, how does The Den actively contribute to the local community and foster meaningful relationships with residents and businesses in the area?
Local community, environment and sustainability are certain key pillars at The Den. From fund raisers to direct support; education to charity; training the underprivileged to embracing diversity, we have been able to create an amazing equilibrium that holds and respects human values.
7. In your opinion, what are the most crucial qualities a leader in the hospitality industry should possess, and how do you embody these qualities in your role as General Manager?
Lead by Example, Attention to Detail, Innovative leadership, and Entrepreneurial Approach are quintessential for success in hospitality.
Staff look to leaders for cues on how to behave and I model company values and behaviours that I want to see in the team. Leading by example include things like listening to the team, helping, delivering on promises, and being inclusive.
Remembering employee’s names, if they have children, pets, birthdays, and life events makes a huge difference in creating more personal connections and keeping teams engaged.
8. Looking ahead, what trends do you foresee shaping the future of the hospitality industry, and how do you plan to adapt and stay ahead of these changes in your leadership role?
Hospitality is a very dynamic and ever-changing world as we are dealing with Human Emotions at every stage. I would take a leap of faith with technology – especially AI and XI changing our very philosophy of hospitality. However, the differentiator will always be the Human touch. We need to be very agile and embrace the technology with the human touch, and that’s what I keep myself abreast with and implement it wherever possible.
This Interview is Published Exclusively in hospitalitynews.in
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Published on November 1, 2026
What makes a hospitality brand stand the test of time? Is it the destinations it enters, the experiences it creates, or the values it refuses to compromise on? For Pooja Ray, Managing Director of MAYFAIR Hotels & Resorts, the answer lies in understanding that true luxury begins with a strong sense of place.
With over 24 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Pooja Ray leads one of India's prominent homegrown hotel groups, overseeing a portfolio of luxury hotels and resorts across the country. Guided by the philosophy, "Stay With Us. Stay With Nature.", MAYFAIR has built its identity around destinations where architecture, landscape, local culture and personalised service come together.
In an exclusive conversation with Hospitalitynews, Pooja takes us through the brand's journey of more than four decades, reflecting on the values that have remained central to its growth. She shares how her family legacy has influenced her leadership philosophy and why people, rather than infrastructure or technology, remain the foundation of memorable hospitality.
The conversation also explores an interesting dimension of luxury, the ability to bring culture and heritage into contemporary hotel experiences. From regional craftsmanship and traditional materials to art collections, antiques and destination-inspired architecture, Pooja explains how MAYFAIR approaches design as a form of storytelling.
Looking ahead, the discussion turns towards the group's next phase of expansion. With upcoming developments such as MAYFAIR Chilika, Mayfair Sanctuary and MAYFAIR Vizag, she offers insights into the thinking behind creating distinctive properties rather than following a standardised expansion model.
Beyond expansion, Pooja also addresses the growing role of technology, the importance of responsible growth and the qualities young professionals need to succeed in an increasingly competitive hospitality industry.
Our conversation with Pooja Ray offers a compelling perspective on building a hospitality legacy while remaining receptive to changing traveller expectations. It was a wonderful exchange exploring leadership, heritage, innovation and the importance of staying connected to nature.
Discover the complete interview with Pooja Ray in the November issue of Hospitalitynews, available on our website. Readers can also get their physical copy of the magazine to explore the full conversation and more stories from the hospitality industry
What makes a luxury stay truly unforgettable? Is it the grandeur of a palace, the beauty of its surroundings, or the people who turn every moment into a memorable experience? At Raffles Udaipur, it is the thoughtful combination of these elements that defines its approach to hospitality.
Set against the scenic beauty of Udai Sagar Lake, Raffles Udaipur brings together royal elegance, personalised service, and distinctive guest experiences. Leading this vision is Gurnoor Bindra, General Manager of the property, whose hospitality journey reflects a strong belief in people, attention to detail, and the importance of making every guest feel valued.
In an exclusive interview with HospitalityNews, Gurnoor shares his perspective on luxury hospitality, reflecting on the professional experiences that have shaped his leadership and the inspiration behind his career. Having been recognised among the 30 Best GMs in the UAE, he highlights the importance of empowering teams and creating a culture where thoughtful service goes beyond expectations.
The conversation also explores Udaipur's growing prominence as a destination wedding hub. With its 21-acre private island, distinctive venues, and picturesque surroundings, Raffles Udaipur offers couples opportunities to create celebrations that reflect their individual stories. From intimate gatherings to grand multi-day weddings, the property brings together personalised planning and the cultural charm of Rajasthan.
Beyond celebrations, the interview takes readers closer to Lakeshore – A Distinct Experience by Raffles Udaipur. Featuring 36 rooms and suites, Lakeshore offers an intimate lakeside setting where private boat journeys, distinctive dining, and seamless service add another dimension to the guest experience.
But what truly connects these experiences is the property's relationship with its surroundings. Gurnoor discusses how Rajasthani craftsmanship, local traditions, regional cuisine, and nature-inspired activities help guests discover Udaipur beyond its architectural beauty.
The conversation also highlights a significant achievement: Raffles Udaipur receiving Two MICHELIN Keys for the second consecutive year. Gurnoor reflects on the Heartists behind this recognition and shares his vision for developing meaningful wellness experiences and personalised celebrations in the years ahead.
It was a pleasure to speak with Gurnoor Bindra and gain a deeper understanding of the leadership, people, and philosophy shaping Raffles Udaipur's distinctive hospitality experience.
What goes into creating luxury that guests remember long after their stay? Discover the complete conversation in the November edition of HospitalityNews Magazine, available on our website in e-magazine format. Readers can also explore the physical edition for more exclusive interviews, industry perspectives, and inspiring hospitality stories.
What does it take to build a premium spirits brand in a market as diverse and competitive as India? For Lakshay Yadav, Co-Founder of My Barrel & Beyond, the answer lies in understanding consumers, recognising quality, and discovering distinctive products with stories worth sharing.
Driven by a passion for discovering new tastes and a keen interest in wines and spirits, Lakshay has turned his enthusiasm into a business focused on bringing premium international labels closer to Indian consumers. Through My Barrel & Beyond, he continues to explore brands shaped by heritage, craftsmanship, and character.
In an exclusive interview with HospitalityNews, Lakshay shares his insights into the changing dynamics of the AlcoBev industry and the factors that contribute to sustainable business growth. From the importance of authenticity and strong brand positioning to the value of long-term partnerships, his perspective offers a closer look at what it takes to establish a meaningful presence in this evolving market.
India's growing interest in premium imported spirits presents exciting opportunities for international brands. However, navigating the country's diverse regulatory landscape requires adaptability and a strong understanding of local consumers. Lakshay discusses how the combination of global provenance and local market knowledge can help brands find their place in India's competitive spirits industry.
The conversation also takes us closer to Emberstone Irish Whiskey, a brand that reflects traditional Irish craftsmanship through triple distillation, non-chill filtration, and maturation in ex-Bourbon casks, followed by finishing in Oloroso Sherry and Banyuls wine barrels. With Indian consumers increasingly exploring distinctive whisky experiences, Lakshay explains what makes Emberstone stand out and why its heritage and production methods matter.
Beyond products and market opportunities, the interview explores the professional lessons that have shaped his journey. Lakshay reflects on the importance of trust, patience, relationships, and credibility in building a business that looks beyond immediate results. He also shares My Barrel & Beyond's approach to sustainability, responsible choices, and its ambition to introduce more distinctive international brands to India.
What lies ahead for My Barrel & Beyond as India's premium spirits market continues to evolve? What opportunities does Lakshay see beyond Emberstone, and how does he plan to build a portfolio rooted in craftsmanship and provenance? It was a pleasure to have this insightful conversation with Lakshay Yadav, gaining a deeper understanding of his journey, business philosophy, and vision for the future.
Discover the complete interview in the November edition of HospitalityNews Magazine, available on our website in e-magazine format. Readers can also explore the physical edition for more stories, insights, and conversations from across the hospitality industry.
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