Exclusive: Alisha Chitalwala on Innovation & Women in Design

Exclusive: Alisha Chitalwala on Crafting Luxury & Inclusivity in Hospitality Design

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 8, 2025

Great hospitality design goes beyond aesthetics—it creates experiences that stay with guests long after they’ve left. For Alisha Chitalwala, Associate Designer at Designers Group, the focus is on crafting spaces that seamlessly blend comfort, functionality, and brand identity.

“My role revolves around ensuring each project exudes a distinct character, setting the property apart with its unique charm,” she shares. From conceptualization to execution, every detail is carefully curated to enhance the guest experience, making hospitality spaces more than just places to stay—they become destinations in themselves.

A Commitment to Sustainable Luxury

Sustainability is no longer an option; it’s a necessity. Designers Group has been at the forefront of integrating eco-conscious practices into hospitality design without compromising on luxury. “We believe in delivering luxury through a thoughtful, sustainable approach,” Alisha explains. “By prioritizing environmentally conscious practices, we contribute meaningfully to the evolution of the design industry.”

With travelers increasingly valuing responsible tourism, hotels and resorts are now looking at design as a way to minimize their environmental footprint while maintaining high-end appeal. This shift is shaping the next generation of hospitality spaces—ones that are both indulgent and environmentally responsible.

Innovation & The Role of AI in Hospitality Design

Technology is revolutionizing the way designers conceptualize and execute spaces, and AI is leading the charge. “The future of design is being reshaped by AI-driven solutions, offering boundless opportunities to push creative boundaries,” Alisha shares.

From AI-assisted space planning to immersive 3D visualizations, technology is making it easier to create more precise, functional, and engaging hospitality interiors. This not only enhances efficiency but also allows for greater customization, ensuring every space meets the evolving expectations of modern travelers.

Fostering Inclusivity & Women in Design

The design industry has long been a space where creativity thrives, and at Designers Group, gender is never a barrier to success. “Creativity knows no gender,” Alisha states. “We champion equal opportunities and take immense pride in having a significant number of female professionals who bring innovation, passion, and excellence to every project.”

As more women step into leadership roles, the industry is witnessing a positive shift towards inclusivity and representation. By fostering talent without bias, hospitality design continues to evolve as a field where fresh perspectives and diverse voices shape the future.

A Vision for the Future

The hospitality industry is embracing change, with sustainability, adaptive reuse, and immersive experiences leading the way. Looking ahead, Alisha envisions smart, responsive spaces that elevate guest interactions while prioritizing eco-conscious luxury. “Opportunities lie in redefining hospitality through a forward-thinking approach,” she says.

As hospitality design continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity will be at the heart of the industry’s transformation.

A Message for Women’s Day

On International Women’s Day, Alisha shares an empowering message:
“We are empowered women shaping the world, and our strength multiplies when we uplift and support one another. Together, we create, inspire, and lead with unwavering confidence.”

A fitting reminder that when women support each other, the industry—and the world—flourishes.

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Guntur Announces the Promotion of Mr. Arvind Mishra as Executive Housekeeper

By Hariharan U

Published on November 7, 2025

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Guntur, is pleased to announce the promotion of Mr. Arvind Mishra as Executive Housekeeper. With a proven track record of excellence and over a decade of experience in hospitality operations, Mr. Mishra has been instrumental in maintaining the hotel’s high standards of cleanliness, guest comfort, and sustainability. In his new role.

he will continue to lead the housekeeping team with a focus on service innovation, efficiency, and guest satisfaction, further strengthening Welcomhotel Guntur’s commitment to delivering world-class hospitality and ensuring an impeccable stay experience for every guest

About Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Guntur

Nestled in the heart of Andhra Pradesh, Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Guntur blends modern luxury with the region’s rich cultural heritage. Designed for both business and leisure travelers, the hotel features contemporary accommodations, diverse dining experiences, and signature warm hospitality. With sustainable practices at its core, Welcomhotel Guntur embodies ITC Hotels’ “Responsible Luxury” philosophy, offering guests an experience that is both refined and environmentally conscious.

Cygnet.One Appoints Dr. Pankaj Dikshit as Executive Director to Drive AI-Led Digital Transformation

By Hariharan U

Published on November 7, 2025

Cygnet.One, a global leader in digital tax transformation and enterprise technology, has announced the appointment of Dr. Pankaj Dikshit, PhD (IIT Delhi) as Executive Director. With over 30 years of experience spanning government, enterprise, and technology, Dr. Dikshit brings a rare mix of strategic vision and hands-on expertise in building national-scale digital systems powered by AI and compliance-driven frameworks. He will operate from New Delhi.

An IIT Delhi alumnus, Dr. Dikshit holds both M.Tech and PhD degrees and has previously held senior roles at IBM and the Government of India. Over his career, he has been at the forefront of digital transformation, AI adoption, cybersecurity, and policy innovation, earning recognition from AWS, ET Digitech, and DSCI for his leadership in technology and data-driven governance.

One of his most notable contributions was his pioneering role in India’s GST digital transformation, where he helped scale the system to serve millions of taxpayers, billions of invoices, and transactions across the country. He also played a key role in designing and implementing the E-Way Bill and e-Invoicing frameworks, strengthening revenue collection and compliance through technology.

Speaking on his new role, Dr. Pankaj Dikshit shared, “Having worked closely with both government and industry leaders on large-scale digital transformations, I believe technology is more than compliance, it’s a catalyst for trust, efficiency, and long-term value. At Cygnet.One, I’m excited to extend this vision by helping enterprises embrace AI-first, secure, and compliant digital systems that redefine the way they operate.”

Niraj Hutheesing, Founder and Managing Director of Cygnet.One, added, “We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Dikshit to our leadership team. His work in India’s digital transformation and his experience at the intersection of policy, governance, and technology make him the ideal leader to guide our next phase of growth. His expertise will accelerate our mission to empower enterprises through AI-driven and compliance-led innovation.”

At Cygnet.One, Dr. Dikshit will focus on advancing AI-first digital transformation across key sectors including BFSI, Manufacturing, Pharma, Retail, and the Public Sector. His leadership will help businesses move beyond compliance, turning regulatory alignment into opportunity and driving measurable value through automation and intelligent systems.

Beyond enterprise strategy, Dr. Dikshit is also expected to contribute to Cygnet.One’s core growth pillars, Clients, Cygnetians, and Community by promoting a culture of innovation, mentorship, and social impact through technology.

Cygnet.One continues to stand at the forefront of digital transformation, with expertise spanning Tax, VAT & GST compliance, e-Invoicing, AI-driven data intelligence, and enterprise modernization. The company is actively involved in large-scale implementations across regions including India, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and Europe, helping businesses redefine how they comply, connect, and compete in the evolving digital economy.

Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal Welcomes Chef Mohd. Asif Qureshi as Master Chef – Nazaara

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 7, 2025

Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal has announced the appointment of Chef Mohd. Asif Qureshi as Master Chef – Nazaara, bringing with him over two decades of rich culinary experience across leading hospitality brands in India and abroad. Known for his expertise in Indian, Mughlai, and Awadhi cuisines, Chef Asif is set to further elevate the hotel’s dynamic culinary offerings with his distinctive flair and authentic touch.

Before joining Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal, Chef Asif served as Chef de Cuisine at JW Marriott Bengaluru, where he curated refined dining experiences that beautifully blended Indian flavours with a modern twist. His impressive career spans several renowned properties, including The Den Bengaluru, The Zuri Whitefield Bengaluru, ITC Fortune Select Trinity Bengaluru, Radisson Blu Paschim Vihar New Delhi, ITC Chola Sheraton Chennai, Radisson Hotel (GRT) Chennai, and ITC Maratha Mumbai.

On the international front, Chef Asif has led culinary teams at Daalchini Restaurant in Dubai and Move N Pick Hotels in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, enriching his experience with diverse global influences.

Recognised for his mastery of traditional Indian cuisine, Chef Asif focuses on infusing authenticity into every dish while embracing modern culinary techniques. His style blends age-old traditions with innovation, ensuring every dining experience reflects both nostalgia and creativity.

Commenting on the appointment, Kadambari Sabharwal Talwar, General Manager, Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal, said, “We are delighted to welcome Chef Asif to our culinary team. His vast experience, especially in Indian and Awadhi cuisines, will add great value to our dining experiences. We look forward to his creative interpretations and the new energy he will bring to our culinary offerings.”

With Chef Asif at the helm, Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal continues to strengthen its reputation as one of Bengaluru’s most vibrant dining destinations, offering guests a refined yet diverse gastronomic journey that celebrates both tradition and innovation.

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Exclusive: Alisha Chitalwala on Crafting Luxury & Inclusivity in Hospitality Design

A Commitment to Sustainable Luxury

Innovation & The Role of AI in Hospitality Design

Fostering Inclusivity & Women in Design

A Vision for the Future

A Message for Women’s Day

Most Read In News

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Guntur Announces the Promotion of Mr. Arvind Mishra as Executive Housekeeper

Most Read In News

Cygnet.One Appoints Dr. Pankaj Dikshit as Executive Director to Drive AI-Led Digital Transformation

Most Read In News

Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal Welcomes Chef Mohd. Asif Qureshi as Master Chef – Nazaara

Most Read In News