Pride Hotels Group Launches A.S.P.I.R.E ED Programme to Nurture Future Hospitality Leaders

Pride Hotels Group Launches A.S.P.I.R.E ED Programme to Nurture Future Hospitality Leaders

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 10, 2024

Pride Hotels Group recently celebrated its Founder's Day with spirited festivities across its properties, intertwining the celebrations with meaningful CSR initiatives. This day not only marks the birthday of Mr. S. P. Jain, the Chairman and Managing Director of Pride Hotels Group, but also commemorates the founding anniversary of the group’s first property, Pride Hotel Pune. Over the years, Pride Hotels has evolved into one of India’s most trusted hospitality brands, and this celebration reflects its unwavering journey towards excellence in the hospitality sector.

As a highlight of the Founder's Day festivities, Pride Hotels Group introduced the A.S.P.I.R.E ED Programme, an ambitious initiative designed to address the growing talent gap within the hospitality industry. The Advance Skills Programme in Real-time Excellence in Education and Development (A.S.P.I.R.E ED) targets young individuals who have completed their 12th grade but have not pursued higher education or entered the hospitality field. This three-month programme provides a structured curriculum focusing on education, skill development, and hands-on practical training, preparing participants for entry-level positions in the hospitality sector.

Leading the A.S.P.I.R.E ED Programme are Jayesh Wadher, Culture & Talent Head, and Shailendra Dharme, Learning & Development Head of Pride Hotels Group. Their expertise is set to shape a comprehensive learning experience that equips participants with the essential skills and knowledge required to thrive in the industry. This initiative aligns with Pride Hotels' vision of creating a sustainable talent pipeline that not only addresses immediate workforce needs but also contributes to the long-term growth of the hospitality industry.

Mr. S. P. Jain expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "The A.S.P.I.R.E ED Programme reflects our commitment to empowering young professionals with the skills necessary to succeed in the hospitality industry. By offering structured education and training, we are helping to build a future generation of leaders who will uphold the values of excellence, service, and innovation that are at the core of Pride Hotels."

With a presence in 60 hotels across 58 prime locations in India, Pride Hotels Group is renowned for providing diverse hospitality experiences. The group’s properties feature 5,500 guest rooms and 3.25 lakh square feet of luxurious banquet space, making them ideal for large conferences, weddings, and intimate gatherings. Their longstanding reputation for quality service and guest satisfaction solidifies their position as one of the most trusted names in Indian hospitality.

The launch of the A.S.P.I.R.E ED Programme extends Pride Hotels Group’s commitment to community development and industry growth. This initiative aims to address the shortage of skilled professionals in the hospitality sector by cultivating a robust talent pool of well-trained individuals. The programme is designed to equip participants with practical, industry-specific knowledge, ensuring they are prepared for the evolving demands of the sector.

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Mr. Atul Upadhyay, Executive Vice President of the group, added, "The A.S.P.I.R.E ED Programme is a key initiative as Pride Hotels Group continues to expand. We recognize the need for fresh talent with vibrant ideas and new perspectives to invigorate the hospitality industry. This programme is designed to nurture and cultivate that talent, helping bring innovative ideas into the sector. By fostering creativity and equipping young professionals with the right skills, we are confident this initiative will benefit not only the participants but also infuse the industry with fresh energy and innovation."

The unveiling of the A.S.P.I.R.E ED Programme underscores Pride Hotels Group's forward-thinking approach to talent development and social responsibility. As the hospitality industry continues to grow and evolve, the group remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards of service while contributing to the development of future industry leaders.

Since its inception in 1988, Pride Hotels Group has become a cornerstone of India's hospitality industry, combining luxury with a deep connection to India’s cultural heritage. With offerings that range from luxury hotels and resorts to boutique properties under the brands Pride Plaza, Pride Premier, Pride Elite, and Biznotel by Pride, the group provides a variety of hospitality experiences tailored for both business and leisure travelers. The launch of the A.S.P.I.R.E ED Programme further reinforces Pride Hotels’ commitment to innovation, excellence, and community engagement.

For more information about Pride Hotels Group and the A.S.P.I.R.E ED Programme, please reach out to hr.corporate@pridehotel.com.


The Leela Gandhinagar Marks International Yoga Day with Wellness-Focused Celebration

The Leela Gandhinagar Marks International Yoga Day with Wellness-Focused Celebration

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 23, 2026

The Leela Gandhinagar celebrated International Yoga Day with a thoughtfully curated wellness experience that encouraged guests to slow down, reconnect, and embrace a more mindful way of living. Inspired by Aujasya by The Leela, the brand's philosophy centred on vitality, balance, and mindful living, the event brought together guests, wellness enthusiasts, and hotel associates for a morning dedicated to holistic wellbeing.

Hosted within the serene surroundings of the hotel, the programme went beyond physical exercise to focus on mindfulness and self-awareness. Participants took part in guided yoga sessions, mindful breathing exercises, and moments of quiet reflection, creating an environment that encouraged relaxation and inner balance.

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The experience was designed around the belief that true wellbeing is built through meaningful and enriching moments. As the session concluded, guests were invited to continue their wellness journey with an Aujasya-inspired breakfast featuring wholesome dishes, fresh fruits, herbal infusions, and nutritious selections curated to complement the spirit of the occasion.

The event reflected the holistic wellness approach of Aujasya, where movement, nourishment, and mindfulness come together to promote renewal and personal wellbeing. Through the experience, participants were encouraged to pause from their daily routines, recharge, and adopt a more balanced lifestyle.

Commenting on the occasion, Vikas Sood, General Manager, The Leela Gandhinagar, said, “Wellbeing is increasingly becoming an essential part of how people choose to live, travel, and engage with the world around them. Through Aujasya-inspired experiences, we aim to create meaningful opportunities that encourage balance, mindfulness, and a sense of inner renewal. International Yoga Day offered a wonderful occasion to celebrate this philosophy and share it with our guests and associates.”

As wellness continues to play a growing role in luxury hospitality, The Leela Gandhinagar remains focused on creating experiences that blend authentic hospitality with mindful living. Guided by the principles of Aujasya, the hotel continues to offer opportunities for guests to reconnect with themselves through thoughtful and restorative experiences.

More than a celebration of yoga, the event served as a reminder of the importance of mindfulness, nourishment, and inner balance in creating a healthier and more fulfilling way of life.


ITC Maurya Marks International Yoga Day 2026 with Focus on Healthy Ageing

ITC Maurya Marks International Yoga Day 2026 with Focus on Healthy Ageing

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 23, 2026

ITC Maurya celebrated International Yoga Day 2026 with a dedicated wellness session at Nandiya Garden, embracing this year's theme, "Yoga for Healthy Ageing." The event brought together wellness enthusiasts and influencers for a morning focused on physical health, mental well-being, and mindful living.

The programme began with a guided yoga session conducted by a certified instructor. Designed to support overall wellness, the session highlighted the role of yoga in maintaining physical vitality, improving mental balance, and encouraging long-term healthy living.

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Following the yoga session, participants were treated to a selection of nutritious and wholesome refreshments that complemented the event's focus on wellness and conscious lifestyle choices.

The initiative reflected ITC Hotels' commitment to Responsible Luxury by encouraging guests to adopt healthier habits and prioritise self-care in their daily lives. Through activities centred on holistic well-being, the hotel reinforced the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle while making mindful and sustainable choices.

By aligning with the global celebration of International Yoga Day, ITC Maurya highlighted the growing relevance of wellness practices in supporting healthy ageing and enhancing overall quality of life.


ITC Hotels Strengthens Rajasthan Presence with Signing of Welcomhotel Jaipur

ITC Hotels Strengthens Rajasthan Presence with Signing of Welcomhotel Jaipur

By Hariharan U

Published on June 20, 2026

ITC Hotels Limited has announced the signing of a management agreement for a 140-key Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels in Jaipur, marking another significant step in the company’s expansion strategy across key state capitals and high-demand hospitality markets.

The upcoming property will strengthen ITC Hotels’ presence in Rajasthan, a state renowned for its rich cultural heritage, royal architecture, and thriving tourism sector. Jaipur, in particular, continues to attract domestic and international travellers, while remaining one of India’s most sought-after destinations for weddings, celebrations, and business events.

Designed to blend contemporary comfort with the city’s historic charm, Welcomhotel Jaipur will feature well-appointed guest rooms and suites, an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant, and a lounge bar. The hotel will also offer extensive event infrastructure, including more than 15,000 square feet of indoor banqueting space and 22,000 square feet of landscaped outdoor venues, positioning it as a preferred destination for MICE events and destination weddings.

Guests will have access to wellness and spa facilities, further enhancing the overall hospitality experience.

Commenting on the development, Anil Chadha, Managing Director of ITC Hotels Limited, said Jaipur represents a unique blend of heritage and growing demand for premium hospitality experiences. He noted that the project aligns with the company’s focus on strengthening its presence in high-visibility destinations across India.

Directors of Ashraya Hotels and Resorts Anil Agarwal, Sunil Agarwal, and Peyush Agarwal said the partnership aims to bring world-class hospitality experiences to Jaipur while celebrating Rajasthan’s cultural legacy.

The signing follows ITC Hotels’ recent expansion announcements in Bhubaneswar, Dehradun, and Hyderabad, reinforcing its long-term commitment to growing its hospitality portfolio across emerging and established markets in India.

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