Loading...
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 Author
Published on December 14, 2023
In a significant announcement, the World Travel and Tourism Council, India Initiative (WTTCII), has appointed Deep Kalra, Founder & Chairman of MakeMyTrip India Pvt. Ltd, as Chairperson and Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson & Managing Director of the Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, as Vice Chairperson for the upcoming term from 2024 to 2025.
Deep Kalra expressed his respect for WTTCII's distinguished heritage and visionary initiatives, emphasizing the organization's commendable 23-year legacy. Kalra highlighted the importance of collaborating with states, citing their active engagement with the Goa Tourism Board and a recently formalized strategic MoU with the Government of West Bengal to craft a comprehensive marketing and PR roadmap. He stressed the need for impactful partnerships with states and active collaboration to contribute insights to the central government's priorities, aligning with Prime Minister Modi and the Ministry of Tourism initiatives.
Dr. Jyotsna Suri reflected on the evolution of India's tourism landscape since the inception of WTTCII in 2000. She commended the substantial progress made under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Ministry of Tourism, emphasizing the organization's commitment to contributing to the ongoing tourism revolution. Dr. Suri highlighted the recent whitepaper, 'Policy Reforms for Indian Hotel and Hospitality Sector,' calling upon states to streamline business environments, foster increased investments, employment, and local livelihood opportunities.
The leadership change sees Deep Kalra taking over from Dinesh Khanna, Executive Director of Eastern International Hotels Ltd, who served as Chairman of WTTCII for the 2022-2023 term. The appointments aim to leverage the collective expertise within the membership base to elevate tourism initiatives, especially at the state level. WTTCII's emphasis on advancing tourism initiatives within states aligns with their goal of stimulating local tourism economies.
In related developments, former Union Secretary of Tourism and Secretary General of WTTCII, Sujit Banerjee, has joined the Advisory Board of the GSTC India Working Group. Banerjee expressed enthusiasm for advancing India's tourism sustainability agenda, aiming to position the country as a global focal point for sustainability initiatives through collaborative efforts.
As Deep Kalra assumes the role of Chairperson and Dr. Jyotsna Suri takes on the responsibilities of Vice Chairperson, WTTCII looks forward to continued contributions to India's tourism growth and sustainability. The organization remains committed to fostering partnerships, streamlining policies, and supporting initiatives that enhance the overall tourism landscape in India.
Soyarich Redefines Plant-Based Eating with Innovative Vegan ...
In today’s evolving culinary world, growing concerns around ...
Palaniappa’s Hepi TV Turns Guest Room TVs into Smart Revenue...
In today’s hospitality landscape, guest experience goes far ...
India, EU Finalise Landmark Trade Deal, PM Modi Calls It “Mo...
India and the European Union have finalised a landmark free ...
A Tricolour Feast: Celebrating the Flavours of India This Re...
As India comes together to celebrate Republic Day, hotels, c...
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on January 29, 2026
Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata has announced the appointment of Somrup Chanda as its General Manager, effective 09 January 2026. The appointment marks a significant step as the property looks to strengthen its leadership and operational excellence.
Somrup Chanda brings with him over two decades of rich and diverse experience in the hospitality industry, having worked with leading hotel brands across India and the Middle East. His professional expertise spans hotel operations, revenue maximization, marketing, customer experience, and pre-opening projects.
He began his hospitality journey with Hyatt in Food and Beverage and steadily progressed through renowned brands such as Grand Hyatt, Park Hyatt, and Hyatt Regency. His career with Marriott International includes playing a key role in launching India’s first Sheraton Grand. He also contributed significantly to the pre-opening and rebranding of Indore Marriott Hotel, where several award-winning concepts were introduced to the market.
Somrup’s professional journey further includes leadership roles with Accor in Kolkata and IHG in Abu Dhabi, adding global exposure to his profile before his return to India.
In 2023, he took on the role of Director of Operations at Bangalore Marriott Hotel Whitefield. During his tenure, he successfully stabilized operations, improved guest satisfaction levels, enhanced revenue performance, and positioned the hotel as Karnataka’s largest single-branded property.
With his extensive experience and people-focused leadership style, Somrup Chanda is expected to drive operational efficiency and guest-centric growth at Fairfield by Marriott Kolkata.
Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel has announced the promotion of RaviTeja Yenumula to Director of Sales and Marketing. In his expanded role, he will lead the hotel’s comprehensive commercial strategy, with a strong focus on driving revenue growth through integrated sales, marketing, and customer success initiatives.
With over 11 years of experience in the hospitality industry, RaviTeja brings deep expertise in commercial strategy and MICE operations. His career spans managing MICE-focused, corporate, and airport hotels, supported by a consistent record of delivering strong commercial performance.
RaviTeja joined Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel in June 2024 as Director of Sales. During this period, he played a key role in improving the hotel’s top-line performance through proactive sales strategies, reservation optimisation, and detailed market analysis.
Prior to joining Sheraton Hyderabad Hotel and Marriott International, RaviTeja served as Director of Sales at Accor from January 2023 to June 2024, where he also completed the Global Leadership Programme, Professional Leaders category. His professional journey also includes significant roles with The Oberoi Group and various leadership positions within Accor.
Speaking on his elevation, RaviTeja Yenumula said,
“I am thrilled to take on this role at Sheraton Hyderabad, where I can harness my passion for technology and customer success to enhance our commercial excellence. My goal is to empower our team through effective decision-making and by adopting cutting-edge tools provided by Marriott International.”
RaviTeja holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Communications Engineering and began his professional career as a software developer before transitioning into the hospitality industry. Outside of work, he enjoys travelling and exploring new technology.
Holiday Inn New Delhi Mayur Vihar Noida has announced the appointment of Dharmendra Mishra as its new Director of Sales. With over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Dharmendra brings extensive expertise across sales leadership, MICE and convention sales, catering revenue management, and event operations.
Over the course of his career, Dharmendra has been associated with several renowned hotel brands including IHG, Hyatt, Hilton, Pride Plaza, and Park Plaza. In his previous roles, he has consistently driven strong revenue performance, operational excellence, and high levels of guest satisfaction. His professional journey has also been recognised through multiple prestigious awards and internal leadership accolades.
In his new role at Holiday Inn New Delhi Mayur Vihar Noida, Dharmendra will be responsible for leading the hotel’s sales strategy, strengthening market positioning, driving revenue growth, and managing key account relationships. He will work closely with cross-functional teams to enhance overall business performance and elevate the guest experience.
Sharing his views on the appointment, N. Vinaayak, Director of Sales & Marketing, said,
“We are excited to welcome Dharmendra to our team. His deep industry knowledge, strong commercial acumen, and proven track record in driving sales performance make him a valuable addition to our organization. We are confident that his strategic vision and collaborative approach will play a key role in strengthening our market position and delivering exceptional results.”
Expressing his enthusiasm, Dharmendra Mishra said,
“I am delighted to join Holiday Inn New Delhi Mayur Vihar Noida and I look forward to working with the talented team here to build strong partnerships, explore new market opportunities, and contribute to the continued success and growth of the hotel.”
Outside of his professional commitments, Dharmendra enjoys cooking and follows cricket closely.
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.