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By Nithyakala Neelakandan
Published on April 28, 2024
In a landmark move, ITC Hotels, a major player in the Indian hospitality sector, has made its debut in the international market with the inauguration of ITC Ratnadipa in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This luxurious property, situated on prime sea-facing land, boasts 352 guest rooms, suites, and service apartments, marking a significant milestone for the conglomerate.
The inauguration ceremony, graced by Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, underscored the symbolic significance of this venture. With futuristic twin towers connected by a sky bridge, the ultra-modern architecture of ITC Ratnadipa reflects the nation's transition from its colonial past to a modern era of development. The presence of this iconic property alongside other international, Indian, and Sri Lankan hospitality brands on Galle Face redefines Colombo's skyline, reminiscent of bustling nightlife scenes akin to those in Macau.
Built at a cost exceeding $500 million, ITC Ratnadipa is strategically positioned under WelcomHotels Lanka, a subsidiary of ITC, marking one of the company's most significant investments. Sanjiv Puri, Chairman and MD of ITC, emphasized Colombo's appeal as the first international location for the conglomerate, citing the region's burgeoning tourism industry. The property is set to cater largely to the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) segment, offering state-of-the-art conferencing and banqueting facilities.
The hotel's architectural marvel, featuring a triangular design offering breathtaking ocean views, underscores ITC's commitment to luxury and innovation. The property comprises two towers, with the smaller tower housing the hotel and the larger tower accommodating the 132 Sapphire Residences. This trend of residences within hotels, a post-pandemic phenomenon, reflects evolving consumer preferences.
Connecting the two towers is the Ahasa One sky bridge, an engineering feat standing 100 meters above ground, making it the first of its kind in South Asia. Notably, the project received strategic investment status from the Sri Lankan government, along with tax breaks and exemptions from foreign exchange regulations.
ITC's foray into the international market aligns with its broader expansion strategy, aiming to reach 200 properties within the next five years. With 22 properties opened in the past two years and 25 more in the pipeline, the company emphasizes growth through management contracts. The recent approval of the demerger of its hotels vertical signifies a significant milestone, with a listing expected within 15 months.
In addition to ITC Ratnadipa, several other hospitality projects have recently emerged in Sri Lanka, indicating the region's growing prominence in the global tourism landscape. With renowned brands such as Hilton, Sheraton, and Marriott making significant investments, Sri Lanka is poised to become a coveted destination for luxury hospitality experiences.
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By Nishang Narayan
Published on July 2, 2025
The Indian Hotels Company (IHCL) has announced the signing of a new Ginger hotel in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, reinforcing its strategy to expand in India’s growing commercial centres. This greenfield project will be developed in collaboration with JK Urbanscapes Developers Limited, marking a continued partnership between the two groups.
Strategically located on Kalpi Road, near the Kamala Cricket Club, the 100-key Ginger Kanpur promises excellent connectivity to key business and leisure districts, making it well-suited for both corporate travellers and tourists visiting the city.
"Kanpur is a prominent manufacturing and commercial hub in Uttar Pradesh, making it an ideal location for Ginger’s offering. This signing is part of our strategy to build Ginger’s presence in such emerging cities," said Deepika Rao, Executive Vice President, New Businesses and Hotel Openings, IHCL. "We are delighted to extend our partnership with JK Urbanscapes Developers Limited."
The hotel will feature Ginger’s signature Qmin, a vibrant bar, meeting facilities, and a fitness centre — offering a seamless blend of work and leisure for its guests.
Maneesh Mansingka, CEO of JK Urbanscapes Developers Limited, added, "We are happy to continue our partnership with IHCL. Our projects with the company will contribute to Kanpur’s hospitality landscape."
With this signing, IHCL now has 34 hotels across Uttar Pradesh, including 21 under various stages of development, underscoring its robust commitment to the state’s hospitality growth.
JK Urbanscapes Developers Limited is part of the historic JK Singhania family business, whose legacy spans over 140 years with interests in sectors like cement, paper, tyres, defence, chemicals, healthcare, education, retail, and IT. The group’s real estate arm, originally incorporated as JK Cotton Ltd. in 1924, continues to play a key role in shaping urban infrastructure.
The new Ginger hotel is set to contribute significantly to Kanpur’s evolving hospitality landscape, catering to the dynamic needs of the city’s growing commercial and leisure segments.
Radisson Hotel Group (RHG) has expanded its presence in Gujarat with the opening of D Square Statue of Unity Kevadia, a member of Radisson Individuals, strategically situated in Ekta Nagar. Nestled in the picturesque Narmada district, this hotel blends local charm with contemporary hospitality, serving as a gateway to one of India’s most iconic tourist destinations.
Located close to the Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, the hotel also offers convenient access to attractions like Ekta Mall, Jungle Safari, Children Nutrition Park, and the Narmada riverfront. Its proximity to Ekta Nagar Railway Station enhances accessibility for both domestic and international travellers. Select rooms even feature panoramic views of the Statue of Unity, the lush valley, and the upcoming Tribal Museum, making it an exceptional base to explore the region.
"With the opening of D Square Statue of Unity Kevadia, we further strengthen our footprint in Gujarat, one of India’s fastest-growing tourism corridors," said Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director and COO, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group. "We remain aligned with the government’s vision of transforming Ekta Nagar into a model tourism and smart city destination. Our hotel stands as a testament to high-quality hospitality that complements the area’s cultural and sustainable growth."
The hotel houses 91 tastefully designed rooms, blending warm aesthetics with modern amenities to create a comfortable retreat. Guests can indulge in flavourful vegetarian fare at Sankalp All Day Dining Restaurant, known for its signature service and refined dishes. For celebrations and business gatherings, the hotel offers versatile event spaces — the Silver Pavilion, perfect for weddings and conferences, and Sapphire, suited for intimate meetings or private events.
Shivalik Goenka, Co-owner of D Square Statue of Unity Kevadia, noted, "The hotel is a tribute to Gujarat’s spirit — rooted in culture, driven by progress. We aim to deliver experiences that are both meaningful and memorable."
Adding to this, Fakruddin Khan, General Manager, shared, "Our focus is on offering a warm, welcoming experience that beautifully marries comfort, service, and the natural splendour of Ekta Nagar. We’re excited to host guests from across India and beyond."
With this opening, Radisson Hotel Group continues to invest in India’s emerging leisure destinations, reinforcing its commitment to offer high-quality stays that celebrate local heritage and drive sustainable tourism.
Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park wrapped up its month-long third anniversary celebrations on a green note by hosting a special tree-planting drive in partnership with SayTrees Environmental Trust. The event saw 17 Heads of Department (HODs) from the hotel roll up their sleeves and plant saplings at the Rail Wheel Factory in North Bengaluru, underlining the hotel’s deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and community.
This drive marked the culmination of the hotel’s unique anniversary initiative — the “Book a Room, Plant a Tree” campaign, launched in May. As part of this initiative, a tree was planted in the guest’s name for every room booked, turning each stay into a living tribute.
"This final planting is a celebration of purpose," said Manish Garg, General Manager, Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park. "We began the month by planting trees with our guests. Today, our leadership team joined hands to reinforce our pledge — that hospitality can and should leave the world better than we found it."
So far, around 2,000 trees have been planted, each geotagged and cared for by local farmers to ensure a survival rate of over 90%. Guests can even track their tree via a digital dashboard, adding a personal, lasting touch to their stay. This model doesn’t just help the planet — it also supports farmer livelihoods, making the impact both ecological and social.
Sustainability is woven into the fabric of Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata’s daily operations. With over 98% of its energy sourced from renewables, a solar-powered system heating 15,000 litres of water daily, and an in-house glass bottling plant eliminating 2,500 plastic bottles each day, the hotel is setting benchmarks in responsible luxury. Its guest rooms are free of single-use plastics, featuring reusable mugs and refillable dispensers instead — small details that add up to big change.
Opened in 2022, Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata has quickly emerged as a go-to address for business travellers in North Bengaluru, offering 60,000 sq. ft. of flexible event space and world-class amenities. As one of South India’s largest dual-brand properties, it continues to redefine what sustainable hospitality can look like.
While this campaign may have wrapped up, its impact will keep growing — tree by tree, guest by guest.
For bookings and more information, call +91 8069012345 / +91 8069112345.
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