Exclusive Interview: Radhika Tata on Women’s Role in Hospitality

Exclusive Interview: Radhika Tata on Women’s Role in Hospitality

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 8, 2025

The hospitality industry thrives on inclusivity, collaboration, and leadership, and women have played an integral role in shaping its evolution. International Women’s Day serves as a reminder of the strides made toward gender equality and the ongoing journey of empowerment.

Radhika Tata, General Manager of Grand Mercure Mysore, sees this day as an opportunity not just to celebrate progress but to inspire real change. "Women in leadership stand at the crossroads of responsibility and progress. This day enables us to reflect on the revolutionary steps women have taken to overcome barriers and redefine their roles across all industries," she shares.

Creating Inclusive Leadership in Hospitality

The rise of women in leadership positions is a testament to the industry’s evolving landscape, yet challenges persist. Radhika emphasizes the importance of creating environments where women can thrive. "Empowering women is central to our values. As female leaders, we must actively foster workplaces where women feel encouraged to step into leadership roles," she states.

Hospitality is an industry that demands resilience, adaptability, and innovation—qualities that women continue to showcase across various roles, from operations to executive management. By breaking stereotypes and advocating for equal opportunities, women leaders are shaping a more inclusive industry for future generations.

The Power of Mentorship in Hospitality

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A strong mentorship culture is crucial in nurturing the next generation of female leaders. "Women’s Day highlights the significance of mentorship and legacy. As leaders, it is our responsibility to mentor young women, share experiences, and provide them with the resources and confidence to pursue leadership roles," Radhika explains.

Through guidance, encouragement, and opportunities for growth, the industry can ensure a more diverse and empowered leadership pipeline. Hotels, resorts, and hospitality groups must continue to prioritize inclusive policies that enable women to balance their careers with personal aspirations, ensuring long-term success.

A Call for Continued Change

As the hospitality sector moves toward greater inclusivity, Radhika believes that leadership goes beyond personal and professional achievements. "It revolves around empowering, motivating, and inspiring every woman, fostering an atmosphere where women are encouraged to succeed," she reflects.

International Women’s Day is not just about celebration—it’s about action. It is a day to recognize the incredible contributions of women in hospitality, acknowledge the challenges that remain, and commit to fostering an industry where leadership knows no gender.


Kadambari Sabharwal Talwar Marks 25 Years with Marriott International, Celebrating a Legacy of Hospitality Leadership

Kadambari Sabharwal Talwar Marks 25 Years with Marriott International, Celebrating a Legacy of Hospitality Leadership

By Hariharan U

Published on June 15, 2026

Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal has celebrated a significant milestone as its General Manager, Kadambari Sabharwal Talwar, completed 25 years with Marriott International. The achievement marks a distinguished career dedicated to operational excellence, guest-centric leadership, and the continued evolution of hospitality in India.

Over the past two and a half decades, Kadambari has played an important role in shaping hotel operations, commercial strategies, sales performance, and talent development across Marriott’s portfolio in South Asia. Her career journey has closely mirrored the growth of India’s hospitality sector, contributing to changing guest expectations and modern service standards.

Currently leading Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal, Kadambari is widely recognised for her strategic leadership approach, focus on people development, and commitment to delivering memorable guest experiences. Her professional journey has also included key leadership positions at Four Points by Sheraton Bengaluru Whitefield, where she contributed to both operational performance and business growth.

Reflecting on the milestone, Kadambari Sabharwal Talwar expressed gratitude for the experiences, mentors, teams, and guests who have shaped her career over the years.

Hospitality has always been about people, the relationships we build, the experiences we create and the memories guests carry with them long after they leave. Looking back at 25 years, I feel grateful for the mentors, teams and guests who have shaped this incredible journey,” she said.

She also highlighted the transformation of the hospitality industry over the last two decades, noting that today’s travellers increasingly seek authenticity, personalisation, and emotional connections alongside luxury experiences.

A graduate of the Indian Institute of Hotel Management under the Taj Hotels system, Kadambari has built her reputation through collaborative leadership, operational expertise, and a strong commitment to mentoring future hospitality professionals. Beyond hotel management, she has actively championed diversity and inclusion initiatives within the industry.

She currently serves as Co-chair of Marriott International’s South Asia Women Ambassador Network and is also the President of Hospitality at the Women’s Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WICCI), Karnataka. Through these roles, she continues to support leadership development and greater representation of women in hospitality.

Her 25-year milestone reflects not only personal achievement but also the broader evolution of the hospitality sector, where guest experiences, wellness, personalisation, and empathetic leadership have become increasingly important. As the industry continues to evolve, leaders like Kadambari Sabharwal Talwar remain instrumental in shaping the future of hospitality through a balance of business excellence and meaningful human connections.


Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad Appoints Niraj Chotai as Director of Sales & Marketing

Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad Appoints Niraj Chotai as Director of Sales & Marketing

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 13, 2026

Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad has announced the appointment of Niraj Chotai as its new Director of Sales & Marketing. Bringing more than 15 years of experience in the hospitality industry, he joins the leadership team with a strong background in sales management, business development, revenue generation, market expansion, and pre-opening operations.

In his new role, Niraj will be responsible for driving revenue growth, strengthening the hotel’s market presence, increasing brand visibility, and supporting guest experiences that align with Hyatt’s values and purpose. Over the course of his career, he has played a key role in several pre-opening projects and strategic partnerships that have contributed to sustainable business growth.

Before joining Hyatt Regency Ahmedabad, Niraj was associated with Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru. His professional journey also includes working with leading hospitality brands such as Marriott International, Hyatt Hotels, Radisson Blu, and Taj Hotels, where he gained extensive experience across various aspects of hotel sales and marketing.

Sharing his thoughts on the appointment, Niraj said, “I am excited to re-join the Hyatt family and be part of a team that is passionate about excellence and meaningful guest experiences.”

Known for his customer-focused approach, analytical thinking, and entrepreneurial outlook, Niraj believes in building strong relationships and leading with integrity and purpose. He is recognised for creating meaningful connections while driving business results.

Outside of his professional responsibilities, he enjoys spending time with family and friends and has a keen interest in travelling to new countries, where he explores different cultures and perspectives.


Holiday Inn Gurugram Sector 90 Appoints Milan Rawal as Human Resources Manager

Holiday Inn Gurugram Sector 90 Appoints Milan Rawal as Human Resources Manager

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 12, 2026

Holiday Inn Gurugram Sector 90 has announced the appointment of Milan Rawal as its new Human Resources Manager. Bringing over nine years of experience in hospitality human resources, Milan joins the hotel with a strong background in people management and HR operations.

Over the course of her career, she has worked with several hospitality organisations including Foodlink F&B Holdings Ltd., Hyatt Regency Gurgaon, Hyatt Place Hampi and Goan Recreation Clubs Pvt. Ltd., gaining experience across various aspects of human resource management.

In her new role, Milan will be responsible for overseeing the hotel's overall HR function. Her responsibilities will include talent acquisition, payroll management, employee relations, workforce planning and budgeting, employee engagement initiatives, learning and development programmes, as well as ensuring compliance with HR policies and labour laws.

Milan holds a PGDM from MIT University and a Master of Commerce degree from S.S. Dempo College of Commerce & Economics.

Outside her professional commitments, she enjoys playing badminton, travelling and spending time with her family.

Commenting on the appointment, Rishabh Jain, General Manager of Holiday Inn Gurugram Sector 90, said, "We are delighted to welcome Milan to our leadership team. Her strong HR expertise and people-centric approach will play a key role in strengthening our workplace culture and supporting the hotel's continued growth."

Sharing her thoughts on joining the hotel, Milan Rawal said, "I am excited to join Holiday Inn Gurugram Sector 90 and look forward to contributing towards building a positive and engaging work environment while supporting the team's growth and success."

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