6th National Housekeeping Convention & 9th PHA Anniversary: Embracing Tech-Driven Housekeeping

6th National Housekeeping Convention & 9th PHA Anniversary: Embracing Tech-Driven Housekeeping

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on June 2, 2024

The Professional Housekeeping Association (PHA) and the Young United Visionary Association hosted the 6th National Housekeeping Convention alongside the 9th PHA Anniversary on May 25th, 2024, at the Clarks Exotica Convention Resort in Bangalore. This year’s convention, themed “Technology-enabled Housekeeping,” focused on the transformative impact of emerging technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), the Metaverse, and digital processes on housekeeping operations.

Ms. Jayashree Nagaraj, the founding President and Chairperson of PHA, served as the event’s Ambassador, emphasizing her dedication to advancing industry standards and practices.

The event featured a distinguished lineup of speakers and guests, each highlighting the critical role of innovation in hospitality. Mr. Balaji M, Group CEO of Kamalya Group and Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa, attended as the Guest of Honor, underscoring the importance of technological innovation and collaboration in the hospitality sector.

Ms. Smita Rathod, Corporate Executive Housekeeper and Director of Rooms at The Leela Hotel Conventions Residences, delivered the keynote address. She shared her extensive experience in leveraging technology to enhance guest experiences and operational efficiency.

Mr. Venkatesh Subramani, Founder and CEO of i2i Softwares, spoke as the Distinguished Speaker on Digitalization. He highlighted recent trends and innovations reshaping the housekeeping landscape.

Dr. Josyula Shekar, Director and CEO of Zyvana Integrated Services Pvt Ltd, contributed as the Lead Speaker, offering insights on integrating technology into housekeeping practices to promote sustainability and profitability.

Ms. Indrani Sanyal, GM of Housekeeping at Medica Super Specialty Hospital in Kolkata, served as the Chief Convener, facilitating crucial discussions and partnerships among industry professionals.

One of the event’s highlights was the “Immaculate Innovations: Expertise Shared by Housekeeping Titans” session. This segment showcased groundbreaking initiatives and best practices from leading experts. Attendees also benefited from research papers and findings on AI-enabled housekeeping, which provided a roadmap for future advancements and industry standards.

The 6th National Housekeeping Convention and 9th PHA Anniversary was a landmark event, bringing together industry stakeholders to explore the vast potential of technology in shaping the future of housekeeping.

About Clarks Exotica

Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa, located amidst the serene landscapes of Bangalore, is a premier destination offering luxurious accommodations, world-class amenities, and unparalleled hospitality. It provides an unforgettable experience for both leisure and business travelers.

This year’s convention has set a new benchmark for how technology can be seamlessly integrated into housekeeping, driving the industry towards a more efficient and innovative future.


ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts Ties Up with FLXHO to Strengthen Corporate Hospitality Presence in Gurugram

ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts Ties Up with FLXHO to Strengthen Corporate Hospitality Presence in Gurugram

By Hariharan U

Published on January 23, 2026

ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts has entered into a strategic alliance with FLXHO Hotels & Residences to accelerate sales growth and strengthen its market presence in Gurugram, one of India’s most significant corporate and technology hubs. The partnership brings FLXHO Cyber One, a 68-room property located in DLF Phase 3 on MG Road, under The Hoften brand, expanding ALIVAA’s footprint in the city.

With this addition, ALIVAA now oversees a strong Gurugram network comprising one flagship ALIVAA hotel and five The Hoften properties. The move is aimed at leveraging ALIVAA’s established distribution strength, corporate relationships, and sales expertise to drive higher occupancy and revenue across its Gurugram cluster.

Gurugram, often referred to as the Millennium City, continues to be a major base for Fortune 500 companies, multinational offices, and a rapidly growing startup ecosystem. This has resulted in sustained demand for efficient, well-connected corporate accommodation. The alliance positions ALIVAA to cater more effectively to this demand by integrating FLXHO Cyber One’s inventory into its commercial strategy.

FLXHO Cyber One joins The Hoften, ALIVAA’s business-focused brand designed for corporate travellers who value efficiency, connectivity, and functional comfort. The brand is positioned to appeal strongly to large corporate accounts seeking consistency and reliability across multiple locations within the city.

Commenting on the alliance, Vikramjit Singh, Founder, ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts, said, “Securing leadership in high-yield urban centres like Gurugram is central to our vision. This alliance marks the beginning of a long-term relationship with FLXHO, with plans to co-develop multiple future assets. It reinforces ALIVAA’s position as a preferred partner for owners focused on strong sales performance and professional management.”

Akash Bhatia, CEO – Managed & Franchise Business, ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts, added, “The FLXHO alliance is a calculated step to scale our mid-market sales capabilities. This is our fifth Hoften property in Gurugram and it allows us to offer corporate clients a reliable, high-volume network that drives stronger conversions and consistent value.”

Sharing his perspective, Nipun Bhandari, Founder, FLXHO, said the partnership would help unlock the full commercial potential of FLXHO Cyber One through ALIVAA’s extensive market reach and distribution strength. Sidharth Aggarwal, COO, FLXHO, noted that the collaboration aligns with FLXHO’s vision of offering flexible, adaptive living solutions for modern professionals.

The alliance was facilitated by Harpreet Chatwal, who highlighted that the integration of FLXHO’s asset into ALIVAA’s sales engine is expected to translate directly into higher occupancy and improved market share for both brands.

Through this partnership, ALIVAA and FLXHO aim to set a stronger benchmark in Gurugram’s corporate hospitality segment, combining flexible living concepts with a focused, performance-driven sales approach.


Day of Gratitude Marks the Beginning of an Annual Commitment to Community Giving

Day of Gratitude Marks the Beginning of an Annual Commitment to Community Giving

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 23, 2026

Radisson Blu Bengaluru Outer Ring Road has announced the launch of Day of Gratitude, a new annual initiative observed on January 14, centred on reflection, responsibility, and meaningful community giving. Envisioned as a long-term commitment, the initiative will support a different cause each year, guided by a simple yet thoughtful approach of listening first, understanding real needs, and responding with intention.

The initiative was observed for the first time on January 14 this year, with a focus on supporting a local government school in the neighbourhood. Contributions were directed towards fulfilling specific requirements identified through direct on-ground engagement, ensuring that the support addressed genuine and immediate needs.

As part of the initiative, proceeds generated from lunch and dinner services at Mélange, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, were dedicated towards supporting the local school. This effort reinforced the belief that everyday actions, when driven by purpose, can create a meaningful and lasting impact within the community.

Speaking on the initiative, Christina Roach, Director, Roach Lifescapes, owners and operators of Radisson Blu Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, said, “Radisson Blu Bengaluru Outer Ring Road has been part of this city since 2007, and we are deeply grateful for the trust and support extended to us over the years. This Day of Gratitude is our way of saying thank you for the love and support. Starting this year we would like to build a culture of giving that evolves year after year, shaped by the causes that need attention the most.”

She added, “This year, contributions generated at Mélange on January 14 were directed towards supporting local school children. In the years ahead, the cause may change, but the intent will remain constant, to give compassionately.”

Through Day of Gratitude, Radisson Blu Bengaluru Outer Ring Road aims to establish a sustained culture of empathy and responsibility, reinforcing its connection with the city while continuing to contribute positively to the community it calls home.


The Oterra Hotel Achieves Prestigious IGBC Green Existing Building Platinum Award

The Oterra Hotel Achieves Prestigious IGBC Green Existing Building Platinum Award

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 23, 2026

The Oterra Hotel, Bengaluru, has reached a major milestone in its sustainability journey by being awarded the Platinum Rating under the IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) Green Existing Buildings category for the year 2025–2026. With this recognition, The Oterra has emerged as the highest-rated green existing building in India, reinforcing its position as a leader in future-ready hospitality.

Conferred by the CII – Indian Green Building Council, the Platinum certification represents the highest level of achievement in the category. The recognition is especially significant as it involves a detailed and rigorous evaluation of energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, ecofriendly commuting practices, and innovation, while maintaining high standards of indoor environmental quality and guest well-being.

In addition to the Platinum certification, The Oterra’s focus on “Sustainable Luxury” has also earned it two national-level honours. The hotel received the IGBC Performance Challenge Award for Green Buildings, recognising measurable outcomes in resource conservation, along with the Excellence Award for its overall leadership and holistic contribution to the hospitality sector.

The achievement reflects years of careful planning and consistent action towards Net Zero goals. In collaboration with Earthonomic Engineers, The Oterra has successfully aligned premium guest experiences with environmentally responsible operations, demonstrating that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand.

Commenting on the recognition, Srinivas Adiga, General Manager at The Oterra Hotel, said, "This honor reflects the tireless efforts of our teams who work every day with passion, integrity, and care for the environment. Each initiative and innovation has led us to this proud moment. We reaffirm our promise to continue raising the bar for sustainable hospitality and creating experiences that leave a positive impact on the world."

As India moves towards more defined and demanding environmental benchmarks, The Oterra’s achievement stands as a strong example for the industry. The hotel’s approach is rooted in the belief that the future of hospitality lies in balancing world-class service with a reduced ecological footprint, setting a benchmark for responsible growth in the sector.

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