K Syama Raju, Managing Director of Hotel Maurya Bengaluru and President of the Southern India Hotel & Restaurant Association (SIHRA), has been elected as the new President of the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI). The announcement was made at FHRAI's Annual General Meeting (AGM), held in New Delhi on September 30, 2024. Raju will officially assume his role on November 1, 2024, succeeding Pradeep Shetty, who will continue as President until October 31, 2024.

This will be Raju’s second term as FHRAI President, having previously served from 2016 to 2017. In addition to leading FHRAI, he also holds the position of President of the Karnataka Tourism Society, reflecting his extensive involvement in both state and national hospitality affairs.

During the AGM, other office bearers for the 2024-25 term were also elected. Vivek Nair, Chairman and Managing Director of The Leela Group of Hotels, will continue as the Honorary Secretary for another term. The new Vice Presidents include TS Walia (East), Garish Oberoi (North), and Dilip C Datwani (West). Surendra Jaiswal and Ashoke Singh have been appointed as Joint Honorary Secretaries, while K Murali Rao of New Woodlands Hotels in Chennai will serve as the Honorary Treasurer.

Raju’s leadership at FHRAI is expected to focus on key industry priorities, such as securing industry status for the hospitality sector and addressing human resource challenges. His experience positions him to collaborate effectively with both state and national governments, with the goal of supporting hotel owners and encouraging new investments.

With the tourism industry poised for significant growth, Raju and his team are committed to advancing the sector through strategic initiatives that will foster long-term success for Indian hospitality.