Fortune Hotels Welcomes Samarth Agarwal as Head of Development

Fortune Hotels Welcomes Samarth Agarwal as Head of Development

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 4, 2024

Fortune Hotels, part of ITC’s hotel group, has announced the appointment of Samarth Agarwal as the new Head of Development. With more than 20 years of experience in hospitality business development, investments, and consulting, Agarwal is set to lead Fortune Hotels through its next growth phase.

Agarwal's career includes roles in equity research focused on the gaming and lodging industry in the USA. He later moved into hotel and real estate consulting at Cushman & Wakefield, where he provided strategic advice to top hotel companies, owners, and developers. He then joined InterGlobe Hotels, a joint venture between Accor Hotels and InterGlobe Enterprises, working on hotel investments. Most recently, he led the Asset Light growth strategy for Lemon Tree Hotels across India, successfully executing over 50 contracts in three years.

As the new Head of Development at Fortune Park Hotels Limited, Agarwal will focus on expanding the network of Fortune-branded hotels across India. Based in Gurgaon, he will manage strategic growth initiatives, form key partnerships, and oversee new developments.

Fortune Hotels believes that Agarwal’s extensive industry experience and visionary leadership will be crucial for the brand’s expansion and success in the competitive hospitality market.

Samarth Agarwal has a diverse background in the hospitality industry. Starting with equity research in the USA, he specialized in the gaming and lodging sectors. He then transitioned to Cushman & Wakefield, providing strategic consulting for leading hotel brands. His move to InterGlobe Hotels involved hotel investments, where he honed his skills in the buy-side of hotel investment deals. At Lemon Tree Hotels, Agarwal led the Asset Light strategy, focusing on management contracts that significantly boosted the company’s growth.

In his new role at Fortune Hotels, Agarwal is expected to leverage his extensive experience to drive the brand’s development efforts. His strategic approach and ability to form effective partnerships are anticipated to play a key role in the brand’s growth.

Fortune Park Hotels Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of ITC Ltd, is a leading chain of business and leisure hotels in India. With 66 signed alliances and over 5,000 rooms across 56 cities, Fortune Hotels aims to provide contemporary accommodation for business and leisure travelers, emphasizing personalized service and great value.

The chain operates under various sub-brands like Fortune Select, Fortune Park, Fortune Inn, and Fortune Resort. Each brand is tailored to meet different guest requirements, ensuring a memorable stay.

Under Agarwal’s leadership, Fortune Hotels plans to expand its footprint across India, enhancing its presence in both established and emerging markets. The focus will be on strategic growth initiatives, fostering partnerships, and developing new properties that align with the brand’s philosophy of offering excellent service and value.

Fortune Hotels is confident that with Agarwal at the helm, the brand will continue to grow and succeed in the competitive hospitality sector. His appointment is seen as a pivotal step towards achieving Fortune Hotels’ long-term goals.

For more information about Fortune Hotels, visit itchotels.com/fortunehotels.


Accor Appoints Cyrus Madan as Director of Development for India & South Asia

Accor Appoints Cyrus Madan as Director of Development for India & South Asia

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 16, 2025

Accor has named Cyrus Madan as the new Director of Development for India and South Asia, reinforcing its focus on strategic expansion in the region. Bringing nearly three decades of experience in hospitality operations and hotel business development, Madan steps into the role with a strong industry background and a sharp strategic outlook.

Madan’s career includes leadership roles at prominent hospitality companies such as Lemon Tree Hotels and Atmosphere Hospitality, and he began his professional journey with The Taj in New Delhi. A graduate of the Welcome Group Graduate School of Hotel Administration, he is recognized for his expertise in strategic growth, business development, and client engagement—skills that are expected to be vital in accelerating Accor’s regional presence.

Aniruddh Kumar, Vice-President of Development, India & South Asia at Accor, expressed confidence in the appointment, saying, “We are pleased to welcome Cyrus Madan to Accor. His extensive experience and deep understanding of the industry will be instrumental in driving expansion, building partnerships, and supporting asset growth in India and South Asia.”

Sharing his enthusiasm about the new role, Madan said, “I am delighted to join Accor and be part of its dynamic team. I look forward to contributing to the group’s development initiatives and delivering long-term value as we continue strengthening our presence across India and South Asia.”

With this appointment, Accor reaffirms its commitment to expanding its footprint in one of the world’s fastest-growing hospitality markets.


Ramee Group Appoints Manoj Singh as General Manager of Ramee ColleXtion Amritsar

Ramee Group Appoints Manoj Singh as General Manager of Ramee ColleXtion Amritsar

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 16, 2025

Ramee Group of Hotels has officially welcomed Mr. Manoj Singh as the new General Manager of Ramee ColleXtion Amritsar, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to operational excellence and elevated guest experiences.

With an impressive 20 years in the hospitality industry, Mr. Singh brings a wealth of expertise, having served in leadership roles with respected brands such as Landmark, Legend, Siddhartha, Amaraa, Club Mahindra, Spree (Ease My Trip), and Five Elements. Since 2012, he has been successfully leading teams as General Manager across multiple properties, consistently driving strong results and fostering service-driven cultures.

In his new role, Mr. Singh will lead overall operations, focusing on revenue growth, team leadership, guest satisfaction, and embedding a culture of continuous improvement and innovation at Ramee ColleXtion Amritsar.

“I am enthusiastic about leveraging my extensive experience and passion for hospitality to drive success and elevate guest experiences in this new role,” said Mr. Manoj Singh. “It is an honour to join the Ramee Group of Hotels, one of the most prestigious organisations, and I look forward to contributing to its continued growth and reputation for excellence.”

A postgraduate with an MBA in Hotel Management, Mr. Singh blends academic insight with hands-on experience, making him well-equipped to take on this strategic leadership position.

Commenting on the appointment, Mr. Saurabh Gahoi, Senior Vice President at Ramee Group of Hotels, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Mr. Manoj Singh to the team. His robust industry background and proven leadership will undoubtedly enhance our operations and further strengthen our position in the Amritsar hospitality market. We look forward to the exciting journey ahead under his guidance.”

With Mr. Singh at the helm, Ramee ColleXtion Amritsar is poised for a new chapter of excellence, carrying forward the brand’s legacy of delivering memorable guest experiences and hospitality innovation.


Father's Day 2025: The Ultimate Gift Guide for Every Kind of Dad

Father's Day 2025: The Ultimate Gift Guide for Every Kind of Dad

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 13, 2025

Father's Day isn’t just a celebration—it’s a heartfelt thank you to the men who lead, guide, and support us. Whether you're shopping for a new dad, your grandfather, or the man who's always had your back, this gift guide has something special for every kind of dad.

Here’s a curated selection of gifts designed to suit different tastes, lifestyles, and personalities:

1. Coffeeverse – French Press

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For the dad who can't start his day without his brew. This beautifully crafted French Press ensures a sediment-free, aromatic coffee experience—an elegant addition to his morning ritual.

2. The Crescent Ring by Oropel

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A timeless gold signet ring that embodies legacy and strength. It can be customised with a family crest or initials—making it the perfect keepsake for the man who means the world to you.

3. Coffee Connection Set by Brillare

imageCoffee meets skincare in this energising set featuring a body wash, lotion, scrub, and crème—all infused with coffee and coconut. A pampering package that dad probably won’t buy for himself!

4. Vanilla Sorbet Body Care Kit by Beauty by BiE

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Give dad the gift of comfort and calm with this indulgent body care kit. The warm vanilla scent and rich hydration make it perfect for unwinding after a long day.

5. Zyto Vodka

imageA refined gift for the dad who enjoys premium spirits. This Polish vodka, newly launched in India, is a celebration of smooth taste and craftsmanship.

6. The Glenwalk Blended Scotch Whisky

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Crafted in Scotland, this blended Scotch whisky offers rich flavours and a smooth finish—ideal for a dad who enjoys the finer things.

7. SuperYou Protein Wafers

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Support his health with these delicious wafers packed with 10g protein and 3g fiber. Available in Coffee, Chocolate, and Strawberry Crème.

8. ITC Maratha’s Gourmet Couch

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Surprise Dad with a luxury dining experience at home. ITC Maratha’s specially curated meals, available from June 10–15, blend culinary expertise with thoughtful presentation. Perfect for a dad who loves good food and fine hospitality.

9. SUYU Skincare Duo

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This minimal yet effective skincare set includes the Astaxanthin Advanced Repair Day Cream—perfect for hardworking dads who deserve daily care and rejuvenation.

10. Coin Cufflinks by Treasures by Tiara

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Symbolising prosperity and legacy, these 9KT gold cufflinks inlaid with rubies are a gift of timeless elegance—just like Dad.

11. Formal Shirts by NOYO

imageSmart, stylish, and made for the modern man. NOYO’s crisp shirts are perfect for the dad who appreciates clean tailoring and classic design.

12. Abundance Infinity Wallet by Scarters

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Designed for convenience and elegance, this wallet offers ample space for cards, cash, and essentials—crafted to match Dad’s on-the-go lifestyle with understated flair.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, Father’s Day is about showing gratitude through thoughtful gestures. Each of these gifts is more than a product—they’re tokens of appreciation for the man who means everything.

Image Courtesy: Respective brands / PR sources

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