Brij Hotels has announced the launch of Brij Sone Bagh, a luxury jungle retreat nestled amid the Sal forests and rugged landscapes near Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh. Spanning 32 acres and just five minutes from the park’s main gate, the property is accessible via a scenic three-and-a-half-hour drive from Jabalpur Airport.

With only five villas set across the vast expanse, Brij Sone Bagh offers an intimate stay designed for authentic and immersive experiences. Guests can enjoy guided safaris in the tiger reserve, explore tribal hamlets, or embark on slow-paced nature walks that highlight the region’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.

“Brij Sone Bagh is a celebration of central India, its forests, wildlife, and rich tribal heritage. Our vision was to craft a space that blends luxury with authenticity, where every villa, every detail, and every experience tells a story of the land and its people,” said Udit Kumar, Co-Founder, Brij Hotels. “We hope guests leave with more than memories, they leave with a deeper connection to this extraordinary region.”

Architecturally, the retreat reflects the raw beauty of the Vindhya Hills. Designed by Atelier15 under architect Deepika Sethi, the villas feature natural materials such as stone, cane, bamboo, and timber, creating a minimal yet earthy aesthetic. Each villa is thematically curated around a native Bandhavgarh animal, with art and textiles inspired by Madhya Pradesh’s tribal culture. Signature spaces, including a forest-inspired diner and an elephant-motif poolside bar, celebrate local design sensibilities, while expansive verandas and private plunge pools ensure uninterrupted forest views.

Sustainability lies at the heart of Brij Sone Bagh. The resort was built with minimal environmental impact, preserving existing trees and following the land’s natural contours. Features such as passive cooling, thermal mass materials, and wildlife-friendly lighting enhance energy efficiency. The culinary philosophy also prioritizes locality, with ingredients sourced from nearby villages or the on-site garden.

Brij Sone Bagh’s workforce is primarily drawn from surrounding communities, reflecting the brand’s commitment to inclusive growth and cultural exchange. The retreat offers a rare combination of luxury, authenticity, and responsible tourism in the heart of tiger country.

ITC Hotels Limited has announced the signing of two new managed hotels under its Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels brand, further expanding its footprint in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The agreements were inked with DSR Hospitality Services for properties in Hyderabad and Nellore.

The upcoming Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels Hyderabad Panjagutta will feature 117 rooms and over 800 square metres of meeting and event space. The Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels Nellore will offer 127 rooms and more than 2,600 square metres of meeting space. Both hotels are designed to cater to business and leisure travellers, complementing regional tourism and corporate demand in their respective cities.

These signings reflect ITC Hotels’ asset-right expansion strategy, which focuses on scaling the Welcomhotel brand through management contracts with experienced hospitality developers. This approach ensures faster brand visibility across key markets while maintaining the operational standards associated with ITC Hotels.

Commenting on the development, Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited, said:

“We are happy to be associated with DSR Hospitality Services for the Welcomhotel in Hyderabad and Nellore. This is a testament to our vision to pursue strategic growth into new cities and further strengthen ITC Hotels’ presence across India.”

D Sudhakar Reddy, Managing Partner, DSR Hospitality Services, added:

“We are delighted to announce our alliance with ITC Hotels for the development of our upcoming properties in Hyderabad and Nellore under the Welcomhotel brand.”

Partners D Prabhakar Reddy and D Raghurami Reddy stated:

“Both these projects hold significant importance for DSR Hospitality, and we look forward to a successful collaboration with ITC Hotels in bringing their distinctive hospitality and renowned F&B experiences to these key markets. With deep cultural and business roots in Hyderabad and Nellore, we are committed to contributing to the region’s growth through world-class developments.”

The two signings reaffirm ITC Hotels’ commitment to expanding across India, strengthening its presence in the southern hospitality market with premium offerings under the Welcomhotel brand.

The Marriott India Business Council proudly celebrated the 11th edition of its flagship philanthropic initiative, “Road to Give”, bringing together associates, partners, and communities across India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka. Hosted at JW Marriott Hotel Bengaluru, with participation from Renaissance Bengaluru Race Course Hotel, this year’s event united thousands in movement, compassion, and social impact.

What started over a decade ago as a small associate-led effort has grown into a regional celebration of purpose. This year, over 10,000 associates ran, walked, cycled, and moved for a cause, reflecting Marriott’s values of empathy, inclusion, and service.

The campaign successfully raised over INR 1 crore, which will support Rising Star Outreach of India, a Chennai-based NGO that aids individuals and families affected by leprosy through education, healthcare, and vocational training.

Reinforcing the “Putting People First” philosophy, Marriott associates organized wellness events, charity runs, and volunteer activities, combining physical well-being with the joy of giving back.

“Each year, Road to Give reminds us of the extraordinary power of collective purpose,” said Sanjay Gupta, Chairman, Marriott India Business Council. “As we celebrate the 11th year, we honour not just the funds raised or miles covered, but the unity and compassion our associates bring to their communities. Their efforts strengthen Marriott’s legacy of care across the region.”

Over the years, Road to Give has become a cornerstone of Marriott’s culture of giving, encouraging associates to be agents of change and advocates for wellness, inclusion, and empathy. Each edition underscores the belief that true success lies in uplifting others and contributing to lasting social progress.

Looking ahead, Marriott India extends heartfelt thanks to all participants, partners, and supporters. Every step taken and every rupee contributed moves us closer to a more compassionate, inclusive future—one where the spirit of giving continues to inspire and unite.