Ascott Expands Presence in India with Citadines Faridabad Signing

Ascott Expands Presence in India with Citadines Faridabad Signing

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 15, 2024

The Ascott Limited (Ascott), a subsidiary of CapitaLand Investment (CLI), has announced its latest expansion in India with the signing of Citadines Faridabad, set to open in the fourth quarter of 2025. This signing marks Ascott’s first strategic partnership with BBRS Hospitality Wellness LLP and is part of its larger plan to increase its portfolio in India, which will now include 19 properties, both operational and in development. The new property will be located in Sector 21C, Faridabad, a key hub within the National Capital Region (NCR).

The Citadines Faridabad property will offer a range of guest rooms, food and beverage options, and meeting and banquet facilities. This addition follows the successful debut of the Citadines brand in Goa and Gurugram earlier this year, alongside the signing of two Oakwood properties in Bangalore and Navi Mumbai.

Ascott’s expansion plans focus on both metro cities and emerging Tier 2 markets, where the demand for serviced apartments is rising, particularly among families and leisure travellers who value larger spaces with kitchenettes and laundry facilities. With a strong local operational team, Ascott aims to open 12 more properties over the next five years, adding 4,000 rooms to its portfolio across India.

Vikas Ray, Vice President and Head of South Asia at Ascott, said, “India is a key market for Ascott’s global growth, and we are excited to expand our portfolio with brands like Citadines, Somerset, Oakwood, and more. Our global brands such as lyf, an experience-led social living brand, and our The Unlimited Collection and The Crest Collection will also make their mark in India, offering unique stays that provide guests with immersive cultural and heritage experiences.”

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Hoshang Garivala, Country General Manager for India at Ascott, added, “We are thrilled to bring the Citadines brand to Faridabad. This milestone is a significant step in our ambitious growth plans, as we aim to operate over 5,000 units in India within the next five years.”

Chetan Sharma, Managing Partner at BBRS Hospitality Wellness LLP, expressed pride in the partnership, stating, “Ascott’s global presence and reputation make them the perfect partner to bring Citadines to Faridabad.”

Beni Agrawal from GK Hospitality Services, who facilitated the tie-up, also commented, “It has been a privilege to help bring this world-class hotel experience to Faridabad.”

With Ascott’s commitment to expanding in India, the Citadines Faridabad property will cater to the growing demand for quality accommodation in the NCR region, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travellers.


Courtyard Pune Chakan Enhances Stay with Focus on Comfort and Well-being

Courtyard Pune Chakan Enhances Stay with Focus on Comfort and Well-being

By Hariharan U

Published on March 28, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan has introduced a property-wide upgrade aimed at improving guest comfort and overall well-being, with a clear focus on enhancing the stay experience.

As part of this initiative, the hotel has installed new mattresses across all rooms, addressing the growing importance of quality sleep for travellers. The move reflects a shift in hospitality priorities, where rest and relaxation are becoming key parts of the guest journey.

The upgrade has been designed keeping both business and leisure travellers in mind, offering a space that supports better sleep, reduces travel fatigue, and creates a more relaxed environment throughout the stay.

Commenting on the development, Amol More said, “At Courtyard By Marriott Pune Chakan, we believe that true hospitality goes beyond service, it’s about how our guests feel during and after their stay. This upgrade is part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring every guest experiences superior comfort, relaxation, and peace of mind.”

The refreshed room experience is part of the hotel’s continued effort to align its offerings with wellness-focused travel trends, where guests increasingly look for stays that help them unwind and recharge.

With this update, the property continues to strengthen its approach to guest-centric hospitality, focusing on simple yet impactful changes that make a noticeable difference to the overall stay.


A. R. Rahman Headlines RECHARGE 2026 at Rajalakshmi Engineering College

A. R. Rahman Headlines RECHARGE 2026 at Rajalakshmi Engineering College

By Hariharan U

Published on March 27, 2026

RECHARGE 2026 at Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Chennai, turned into a landmark cultural moment with a massive turnout of over 18,000 students on its opening day. The event brought together music, art, and student energy on an unprecedented scale, setting a new benchmark for college culturals in India.

In a historic first, globally celebrated music composer A. R. Rahman performed live on a college campus, making the evening truly unforgettable. His performance became the highlight of the fest, elevating it into a large-scale cultural spectacle.

The night also featured performances by well-known artists including Shweta Mohan, Rakshita Suresh, Amrutha Suresh, Nakul Abhyankar, Blaaze, Haricharan, Aditya R K, Nitesh Aher, and A. R. Ameen, creating a high-energy lineup that kept the audience engaged throughout.

RECHARGE 2026 was designed as an immersive platform celebrating creativity and talent, bringing together established artists and emerging voices in a single space.

Speaking about the event, Abhay Meganathan, Vice Chairman of Rajalakshmi Engineering College, said, "We are immensely proud to have hosted a historic moment not just for our institution, but for college culturals across India. Bringing A. R. Rahman to perform at our campus reflects our commitment to creating unparalleled opportunities and experiences for our students. RECHARGE 2026 embodies the spirit of innovation, passion, and excellence that defines our institution."

Following the strong response to Day 1, the fest continues with an equally exciting lineup featuring Prabhu Deva, along with performances by Saanvee Meghana, Nikki Galrani, Sayyeshaa, Shriya Saran, Anukeerthi Vyas, Samyuktha Shan, and Yashika Anand. A special highlight includes a dance performance featuring faculty members alongside the college dance team “Rugged,” mentored by Prabhu Deva.

Tejshree Abhay Meganathan, Executive Director of the college, added, "RECHARGE 2026 is not just a cultural event, but a celebration of the vibrant spirit and talent of our students. At our institution, we believe such initiatives play a vital role in nurturing creativity, confidence, and holistic development."

With RECHARGE 2026, Rajalakshmi Engineering College has redefined the scale of campus events, creating a new benchmark for experiential college festivals in India


CGH Earth Saha Opens Isai Karai Bungalow in Mahabalipuram

CGH Earth Saha Opens Isai Karai Bungalow in Mahabalipuram

By Hariharan U

Published on March 27, 2026

CGH Earth Saha has expanded its presence in Tamil Nadu with the launch of Isai Karai, a boutique coastal bungalow in Mahabalipuram. Designed as a quiet and intimate retreat, the property blends the charm of a traditional bungalow with modern comforts, set against a culturally rich seaside backdrop.

Located just a short walk from the shore along the Bay of Bengal, Isai Karai, meaning ‘musical shore’, offers a peaceful stay surrounded by greenery and the calming sound of the sea. The property also enjoys close proximity to iconic landmarks like the Shore Temple and the rock relief of Arjuna's Penance, allowing guests to explore the region’s heritage with ease.

The bungalow features five rooms, spread across a three-bedroom main residence and a separate two-bedroom unit. While rooms can be booked individually, the layout also works well for families and small groups looking for a shared yet private stay.

Each room is inspired by the natural surroundings, with names and themes drawn from plants and trees on the property. Interiors are designed to bring the outdoors in, with open-style bathrooms, natural light, and green views. Pathways run through lawns and shaded courtyards, with tropical fruit trees like papaya, mango, and star fruit adding to the relaxed setting.

The design also reflects Mahabalipuram’s artistic heritage, with locally sourced stone elements, sculptures, and curated artworks adding character to the space.

Dining at the bungalow focuses on flavours of the Tamil coast, along with other cuisines that can be customised for guests. Fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients take centre stage, while evenings are best enjoyed at the poolside barbecue, where the day’s catch is grilled in a laid-back garden setting.

Beyond the stay, guests can explore nearby attractions such as the Mahabalipuram Lighthouse and the India Seashell Museum, along with local sculpture schools that continue the region’s stone-carving traditions. The beaches, known for their surf-friendly waves, also attract water sports enthusiasts.

With easy access from Chennai and Puducherry, Isai Karai Bungalow is well-suited for weekend getaways, longer coastal stays, and intimate family holidays.

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