You have Successfully logged In !
Already have an account? Login
By clicking Register you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Don't have an account?Register
Enter your E-mail address below, We will send the verification code
Please enter the code send to
Didn't receive the email?Click to resend
Your password has been successfully reset!.
Please login again to access your account.
An OTP has been sent to
Enter the 4-digit code
By Nishang Narayan
Published on January 19, 2025
The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), one of the world’s largest hospitality associations, has outlined a series of reforms it hopes to see in the Union Budget 2025-26. Representing over 60,000 hotels and 500,000 restaurants nationwide, FHRAI emphasized that these changes are critical for bolstering investment, creating jobs, and driving the growth of India's hospitality and tourism sector—a significant contributor to the national economy.
Infrastructure Status for Smaller ProjectsFHRAI proposes granting infrastructure status to hotel and convention center projects costing ₹10 crore or more. Currently, this status is limited to projects exceeding ₹200 crore for hotels and ₹300 crore for convention centers, along with a requirement for the city population to exceed one million. FHRAI highlights that these restrictions exclude smaller, tourism-rich towns, preventing their access to financing and infrastructure benefits.
“India’s tourism sector has immense untapped potential in historically significant towns and emerging destinations,” said K Syama Raju, President of FHRAI. “Infrastructure status for smaller projects will unlock growth opportunities in these regions.”
Simplified Licensing and Single-Window ClearanceFHRAI calls for a single-window clearance system to streamline the complex and time-consuming licensing and approval processes. Simplified regulations would encourage investments and ease operations for hospitality businesses.
GST RationalizationThe association advocates for rationalizing GST rates to make India more competitive internationally. FHRAI recommends:
Excise and Liquor Licensing ReformsFHRAI emphasizes the need for simplified excise and liquor licensing processes. Drawing inspiration from the FSSAI registration system, the association suggests nominal fees and easier compliance to promote the growth of leisure and entertainment services.
India’s hospitality sector, known for generating substantial employment and foreign exchange earnings, faces multiple challenges due to restrictive policies. FHRAI asserts that reforms in licensing, taxation, and infrastructure will enhance India’s competitiveness as a global tourism destination.
“Our hospitality and tourism sector is vital to economic growth, yet it operates under significant regulatory burdens,” Raju added. “Budget 2025-26 presents an opportunity for the government to align policies with industry needs, fostering sustainable growth and positioning India as a leader in global tourism.”
By addressing these critical reforms, FHRAI believes India can advance its vision of becoming a $1 trillion tourism economy by 2047. Simplifying regulations, fostering investments, and reducing operational barriers will create jobs, increase foreign exchange earnings, and drive the sector's long-term growth.
About FHRAI
Established in 1955, the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) is the apex body of the hospitality industry in India. Representing over 60,000 hotels and 500,000 restaurants, FHRAI serves as a voice for the sector, collaborating with government bodies and international organizations to support the growth of India’s hospitality and tourism industries.
DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru Outer Ring Road Unveil...
DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru Outer Ring Road has in...
The Aarlis Hotel Panchkula, a Vignette Collection Hotel by I...
SSIEL Group has announced the opening of The Aarlis Hotel Pa...
The Spice Route at The Imperial New Delhi Introduces Seasona...
The Spice Route at The Imperial New Delhi has introduced a r...
Commercial Flights to Shift to Alluri Sitarama Raju Internat...
Commercial flight operations will officially shift from Visa...
By Hariharan U
Published on August 5, 2026
Brigade Hospitality has announced the rebranding of its MLR Convention Centre Whitefield as MLR Cultural Centre, marking the venue’s transformation into an emerging destination for arts, culture, and creative expression in Bengaluru.
The rebranding includes a refreshed logo and updated visual identity, reflecting the venue’s evolving role as a platform for cultural engagement. Over recent years, MLR Cultural Centre has expanded beyond traditional conferences and corporate events to host a diverse range of artistic experiences, including music, theatre, dance, literature, and performing arts.
The new identity recognises this journey and reinforces the venue’s commitment to creating meaningful cultural experiences by bringing together artists, audiences, and creative communities.
The nomenclature and visual identity of Brigade Hospitality’s MLR Convention Centre in JP Nagar will remain unchanged.
Commenting on the rebranding, Gurmeet Singh, Assistant Vice President, Brigade Hospitality, said that the identity change reflects the transition the venue has undergone, with cultural activities becoming a stronger focus while continuing to accommodate conferences and corporate events.
He added that the vision is to establish MLR Cultural Centre as a space where artists, audiences, and ideas come together to celebrate India’s vibrant cultural fabric and create memorable experiences.
The rebranding marks a new chapter for MLR Cultural Centre as it strengthens its position as a leading destination for art, music, and cultural performances in Bengaluru and beyond.
Published on August 4, 2026
WelcomHeritage has expanded its presence in Rajasthan with the launch of WelcomHeritage Kurki Palace, a boutique heritage hotel in Jaipur that brings together royal Rajput traditions, architectural grandeur, and contemporary luxury hospitality.
Located within a peaceful residential enclave in Jaipur, the palace offers guests a serene retreat while providing convenient access to the city’s iconic forts, palaces, and cultural landmarks. Hosted by descendants of the renowned Ranbanka Rathore family of Kurki Fort, whose lineage traces back to the 23rd generation of saint-poet Mirabai, the property offers travellers an opportunity to experience Rajasthan’s living heritage.
Inspired by traditional Rajasthani havelis, WelcomHeritage Kurki Palace reflects a blend of Marwari, Mughal, and European architectural influences. The property features grand sandstone structures, stained-glass windows, antique artefacts, intricate craftsmanship, and family heirlooms that showcase the region’s rich artistic legacy.
The palace offers 34 luxurious accommodations, including one Maharaja Suite, four Maharani Suites, 18 Executive Mahal Rooms, and 11 Rawla Deluxe Rooms. Each room has been designed with handcrafted furnishings, regional artistry, and modern amenities to provide guests with an immersive heritage stay experience.
The property features four distinctive dining venues — Darbar – The Sky Lounge, Swarn Mahal, Badal Mahal, and Sugar Coated Café — offering curated culinary experiences inspired by Rajasthan’s flavours and artistic traditions.
Beyond accommodation and dining, WelcomHeritage Kurki Palace offers a range of wellness and leisure facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, spa, fitness centre, and curated relaxation spaces. The property also caters to destination weddings, private celebrations, and MICE events through elegant venues such as Darbar Banquet, Darbar Rooftop, and Badal Mahal.
With bespoke event services and parking capacity for up to 500 vehicles, the palace provides a regal setting for large-scale celebrations, corporate gatherings, and intimate occasions.
Aligned with responsible hospitality practices, the property incorporates solar energy into its operations, combining sustainability with heritage preservation.
Speaking on the launch, Ashutosh Chhibba, CEO, WelcomHeritage, said that WelcomHeritage Kurki Palace represents the brand’s vision of preserving India’s cultural legacy while creating contemporary hospitality experiences. He added that the property strengthens WelcomHeritage’s presence in Jaipur and offers travellers an authentic gateway to Rajasthan’s timeless charm.
Chhibba further noted that the launch marks WelcomHeritage’s 11th property in Rajasthan and takes the brand’s overall portfolio to 37 properties across India. He highlighted Rajasthan’s importance to the brand’s heritage hospitality journey and reiterated the company’s focus on creating destinations that travellers actively seek for unique cultural experiences.
Strategically located near Jaipur International Airport and Jaipur Railway Station, the palace provides easy access to major attractions including Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Jal Mahal, and Nahargarh Fort, making it an ideal base for exploring Jaipur’s heritage and vibrant culture.
Published on August 1, 2026
Friendship Day is a celebration of the bonds that bring people together through shared memories, meaningful conversations, and unforgettable experiences. This year, ITC Hotels is inviting guests across India to celebrate friendship with a series of specially curated dining experiences featuring indulgent menus, unique activities, and warm hospitality.
From elegant ladies' lunches and contemporary culinary journeys to lavish brunches and chocolate-making experiences, ITC Hotels' properties across Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Hyderabad are offering memorable ways to reconnect with friends.
ITC Grand Central Mumbai is celebrating Friendship Day with a special Ladies' Lunch at Hornby's Pavilion, offering an afternoon of great food, conversations, and togetherness.
Designed for groups of friends, ladies' groups of eight or more can enjoy 20% savings for up to 20 guests while experiencing an elaborate multicuisine lunch on 30 July 2026.
Located within the iconic luxury hotel, Hornby's Pavilion offers an all-day dining experience featuring flavours from India's culinary heritage alongside global favourites, complemented by elegant surroundings and attentive service.
Event Details:Venue: Hornby's Pavilion, ITC Grand Central, MumbaiDate: 30 July 2026Meal: LunchOffer: 20% savings for ladies' groups of 8 or more (up to 20 guests)Reservations: 022 – 67045121 / 022 – 67045122
ITC Maurya invites guests to celebrate Friendship Day with a selection of distinctive dining experiences across its renowned restaurants.
Guests can explore contemporary South Indian cuisine at Avartana, enjoy an Italian brunch at Ottimo At West View, or celebrate timeless Indian flavours at iconic restaurants Bukhara and Dum Pukht.
The hotel also offers an elaborate dining experience at The Pavilion, featuring Indian and international favourites, live cooking stations, and signature desserts. For those seeking a creative experience, Fabelle presents an artisanal chocolate-making journey where guests can craft and enjoy their own chocolate creations.
Venue: ITC Maurya, Sardar Patel Marg, Chanakyapuri, New DelhiDate: 2 August 2026Time: 12:30 PM onwardsReservations: 011 2611 2233
ITC Royal Bengal and ITC Sonar are bringing together a collection of dining experiences that celebrate friendships through food, flavours, and shared moments.
At Eden Pavilion, ITC Sonar, guests can enjoy Sunday Slows Down, a relaxed Friendship Day brunch featuring global and local favourites from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM. The experience is priced at ₹1,800 plus taxes per person.
At Grand Market Pavilion, ITC Royal Bengal, the Grand Sunday Brunch celebrates Anglo-Indian culinary traditions with gourmet offerings, signature delicacies, and indulgent desserts. The brunch is available from 1:00 PM to 3:45 PM at ₹2,300 plus taxes per person.
For guests seeking an elevated culinary experience, Avartana at ITC Royal Bengal presents the Kimaya Set Menu, showcasing contemporary interpretations of South Indian cuisine. Available for lunch and dinner, the experience is priced at ₹3,500 plus taxes per person.
Reservations: 033 44464646
ITC Kohenur invites guests to celebrate Friendship Day with an immersive Fabelle Chocolate Masterclass, offering a journey through the world of fine chocolate.
The experience includes a guided bean-to-bar chocolate journey, chocolate tasting, sensory experiences, hands-on chocolate making, and an opportunity to craft a personalised dessert to take home.
Guests can also enjoy a signature hot chocolate experience, receive a complimentary Fabelle Signature Chocolate Delight, and capture memorable moments with friends.
What's Included:
Date: 2 August 2026Price: ₹2,995 for 2 adults (inclusive of taxes)Additional Adult/Child: ₹995 (inclusive of taxes)
ITC Kohenur Hyderabad will celebrate Friendship Day with a special brunch experience, Friends, Flavours, Forever, at Golkonda Pavilion.
Designed for friends to reconnect and celebrate together, the brunch brings together exceptional flavours, handcrafted delicacies, and a vibrant setting within the landmark hotel inspired by the legacy of the Koh-i-Noor diamond and Deccan heritage.
Guests can enjoy a selection of global and regional favourites while spending quality time with friends over a leisurely afternoon of dining and conversations.
Event Details:Venue: Golkonda Pavilion, ITC Kohenur, HyderabadDate: 2 August 2026Time: 1:00 PM onwardsMeal: Brunch
With thoughtfully curated experiences across its hotels, ITC Hotels continues to create meaningful celebrations where friendships are strengthened over exceptional cuisine, memorable moments, and warm hospitality.
Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!
Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.
By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Advertise With Us
We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.
A platform dedicated to showcase the skills and creativity of hospitality professionals. Share your articles, videos and other content related to the industry and get recognized for your unique perspective and expertise. By posting your content and gaining likes from your own community, we'll categorize your talents and expose them to the hospitality world. Join our community of passionate hospitality professionals and let your talent shine!.
Already have an account?Login
By clicking you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Subscribe for ₹2,000 and receive our monthly magazine for one year (12 months) from the coming month and save 2 months cost.