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.


Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal Revamps Nazaara with Fresh Flavours and Rooftop Vibes

Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal Revamps Nazaara with Fresh Flavours and Rooftop Vibes

By Hariharan U

Published on September 3, 2025

 Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal has unveiled the much-awaited revamp of its signature rooftop restaurant, Nazaara. Known for its stunning skyline views, Nazaara now returns with a reimagined menu, refreshed interiors, and an energetic dining experience designed to set the stage for unforgettable evenings.

The new menu brings a modern take on Indian cuisine, presenting bold flavours in a contemporary style. From inventive small plates to gourmet twists on classic mains, the offerings celebrate India’s rich culinary heritage with a creative edge. Complementing the food is a lineup of signature cocktails and refreshing mocktails, perfect for a laid-back evening under the city lights.

But the experience at Nazaara goes beyond dining. With a resident DJ setting the mood every evening and high-energy sets on weekends, the rooftop transforms into one of Bengaluru’s most vibrant escapes, where fine food meets music and the city’s skyline.

Speaking about the relaunch, Kadambari Sabharwal Talwar, General Manager of Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal, said, “Nazaara has always been synonymous with memorable evenings and panoramic views. With Nazaara, we wanted to reimagine that experience for today’s guests—bringing together inventive cuisine, crafted cocktails, and a lively rooftop vibe. This relaunch is not just about a new menu, but about creating a destination where Bengaluru can celebrate food, music, and city life in its most elevated form.”

With its mix of contemporary style, Indian flavours, and an electric rooftop atmosphere, Nazaara is all set to reclaim its place as Bengaluru’s go-to dining and nightlife destination.


Cygnett Hotels & Resorts Expands to Ujjain with Boutique Resort Signing

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts Expands to Ujjain with Boutique Resort Signing

By Hariharan U

Published on September 2, 2025

Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, one of India’s fastest-growing hospitality chains, has announced the signing of its newest property, Cygnett Retreat™ Collection by Wyndham Ujjain. This premium boutique resort marks a key milestone in the group’s strategy to expand across India’s leading pilgrimage and leisure hubs.

Set to open by mid-next year, the resort will be located just 12 km from the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple and Ujjain city centre, offering guests a blend of tranquillity and easy access. Designed to serve pilgrims, families, and experiential travellers, the retreat will bring together modern amenities with a setting inspired by the timeless charm of Santorini, Greece, featuring whitewashed walls, domed roofs, arched windows, and soothing blue accents.

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The resort will feature 100 well-appointed rooms, an elegant all-day dining restaurant, and 15,000 sq. ft. of meeting and banquet space. Guests can also look forward to leisure amenities including a swimming pool, kids’ play area, fitness centre, and spa. From authentic local and international flavours to serene relaxation zones, the property aims to create an all-encompassing boutique experience.

Expressing his excitement, Mr. Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & Managing Director of Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, said, “We are delighted to expand our presence in the heart of India, Madhya Pradesh. Ujjain is an ancient city with immense religious importance for Hindus. With major infrastructure projects underway ahead of the Simhastha Mahakumbh 2028, and its growing prominence as a textile hub, we believe this is the right time to enter Ujjain and offer visitors our ‘Cygnetture’ hospitality.”

He further added, “Cygnett Retreat™ Collection by Wyndham Ujjain will offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. With its Santorini-style architecture and tropical forest-inspired landscape, the property is positioned to attract a diverse mix of travellers”.

The Cygnett Retreat brand aims to fill the gap in India’s boutique resort market, offering curated stays that balance design, comfort, and experiences.

As part of its broader expansion, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts has forged a strategic alliance with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. This partnership will bring La Quinta® by Wyndham and Registry Collection Hotels® to India, with plans to add more than 60 hotels across India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal in the next decade. With this momentum, Cygnett is on track to becoming a 100+ hotel group in the coming years.


Kamat Hotels Strengthens Goa Presence with Launch of IRA Porvorim

Kamat Hotels Strengthens Goa Presence with Launch of IRA Porvorim

By Hariharan U

Published on August 31, 2025

 Kamat Hotels India Ltd (KHIL) has announced the launch of its latest property, IRA Porvorim, Goa, further strengthening the IRA by Orchid Hotels portfolio. Scheduled to open in September 2025, the new hotel adds to the brand’s fast-paced expansion across India.

Following the successful debut of Orchid Passaros in Benaulim earlier this year, IRA Porvorim will offer 43 well-designed guest rooms, catering to both business travellers and leisure seekers. The hotel will also feature a banquet hall for events, a swimming pool, an in-house restaurant, and a fully equipped health club creating a complete hospitality experience in the heart of Porvorim.

KHIL has been steadily building its IRA brand presence in key tier-2 and tier-3 markets, including Mumbai, Bhubaneswar, Ayodhya, Noida, Nashik, and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. The brand philosophy revolves around delivering value, comfort, and prime locations for mid-market travellers.

Reflecting its commitment beyond hospitality, IRA by Orchid has pledged to donate one percent of its sales towards community initiatives, with a focus on supporting the education of the girl child.

Sharing his thoughts, Vishal Vithal Kamat, Executive Director of KHIL, said, “Goa continues to attract both domestic and international travellers, and with IRA Porvorim, we aim to redefine hospitality in the city. From curated experiences to modern comforts, this property will serve as a preferred choice for families, corporates, and event planners alike.”

Adding to this, Vithal Venkatesh Kamat, Chairman of KHIL, commented, “Each new IRA hotel defines our growth blueprint. Porvorim reflects the essence of our brand: sustainable, stylish, and guest-centric.”

With its strategic location and curated offerings, IRA Porvorim is set to become a go-to destination for vibrant celebrations, corporate gatherings, and relaxed getaways, further boosting KHIL’s footprint in Goa’s thriving hospitality market.

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