Puneet Dhawan Appointed Head of Asia at Minor Hotels

Puneet Dhawan Appointed Head of Asia at Minor Hotels

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on May 18, 2024

Minor Hotels has appointed Puneet Dhawan as the new Head of Asia, effective from July 2024. Dhawan, who brings over 30 years of extensive experience in the hospitality industry, will oversee the performance of all Minor Hotels properties across Asia. He will work closely with the senior leadership team and report directly to Minor Hotels CEO Dillip Rajakarier.

Dhawan’s career spans across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. He joins Minor Hotels from Accor, where he most recently held the position of Senior Vice President of Operations for India & South Asia. During his tenure at Accor, Dhawan played a significant role in driving the company’s growth, including the successful opening of the first Raffles hotel in India. His responsibilities included business development, owner management, hotel operations, and leading commercial teams.

Before his time at Accor, Dhawan began his hospitality career with the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, holding key positions at properties in the Philippines and Hong Kong. He has also served as Accor's Vice President of Operations for the Middle East and held several General Manager roles. Dhawan holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and will be based at Minor Hotels' corporate office in Bangkok.

Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels, expressed enthusiasm for Dhawan’s appointment, stating, “We are excited to welcome Puneet to the Minor Hotels family. His operational experience and empowering leadership will be invaluable as we work to achieve our growth ambitions in Asia and India in the coming years.”

Minor Hotels has ambitious plans to expand its portfolio, aiming to add over 200 new properties globally by the end of 2026, with about half of these new openings in Asia. The company also recently announced its intent to open 50 new properties in India within the next decade, including the debut of its luxury Anantara brand in Jaipur later this year.

Dhawan’s extensive background and leadership in the hospitality industry are expected to play a crucial role in supporting Minor Hotels' strategic growth plans in the region. His appointment underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing its presence and operational excellence in the rapidly expanding Asian market.

Minor Hotels looks forward to leveraging Dhawan's expertise to drive its growth and success in Asia and India. Join us in welcoming Puneet Dhawan as he embarks on this exciting journey with Minor Hotels.


AIPL Joy Gallery Adds UCB & U.S. Polo Assn. to Elevate Gurugram’s Premium Fashion Scene

AIPL Joy Gallery Adds UCB & U.S. Polo Assn. to Elevate Gurugram’s Premium Fashion Scene

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 1, 2025

AIPL Joy Gallery, located in Sector 66, Gurugram, has announced the leasing of approximately 11,000 sq. ft. of prime retail space to international fashion heavyweights United Colors of Benetton (UCB) and U.S. Polo Assn. This strategic addition brings a fresh wave of global style to the shopping hub, bolstering its appeal as a premier destination for discerning shoppers in the city.

Known for its vibrant Italian knitwear, UCB and the timeless sporty elegance of U.S. Polo Assn. will now be part of the mall’s growing portfolio of global brands. This move not only enriches AIPL Joy Gallery’s premium fashion offering but also positions it as a dynamic conduit connecting local consumers with international lifestyle trends.

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Commenting on this milestone, Ishaan Singh, Director, AIPL, said, “We are delighted to welcome United Colors of Benetton and U.S. Polo Assn. to AIPL Joy Gallery. Their presence reinforces the growing confidence in our project and highlights its positioning as a premium lifestyle destination in Gurugram. At AIPL, we aim to create more than just shopping spaces — we envision vibrant destinations where people can enjoy a complete, high-quality retail and leisure experience.”

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AIPL Joy Gallery has consistently attracted leading brands looking to cement their presence in Gurugram’s thriving retail landscape. This leasing achievement underscores AIPL’s broader vision of crafting thoughtfully designed commercial spaces that foster brand growth, elevate urban lifestyles, and redefine modern retail experiences.

With a robust pipeline of reputed brands and a commitment to quality and innovation, AIPL continues to shape vibrant consumer-centric spaces. As Joy Gallery evolves, it stands as a testament to the group’s dedication to delivering premium, strategically positioned lifestyle destinations that resonate with today’s shoppers.


Wyndham Garden Jim Corbett Appoints Vikkas Sharma as General Manager

Wyndham Garden Jim Corbett Appoints Vikkas Sharma as General Manager

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 1, 2025

Wyndham Garden Jim Corbett, Chhoi has announced the appointment of Vikkas Sharma as the hotel’s new general manager. In this role, Sharma will oversee overall hotel operations, focus on maximising revenue potential, enhance guest experiences, and foster a positive work environment for team members.

Given Jim Corbett’s popularity as a tourist destination famed for its tiger reserve, Sharma will also play a crucial role in promoting Wyndham Garden across key tourism markets.

Prior to joining Wyndham Garden, Sharma served as general manager at Lemon Tree Premier, Jim Corbett, where he managed hotel operations, sales and marketing, and staff development.

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Speaking on the appointment, Omesh Bansal, owner of Wyndham Garden Jim Corbett, Chhoi, said, “Vikkas is a talented and experienced hospitality professional and will play a key role in ensuring that Wyndham Garden, Jim Corbett continues providing guests with the same high-quality service and exceptional value that it has become known for in the Jim Corbett community.”

A native of Gurugram, Haryana, Sharma completed his B.Sc from Kurukshetra University in 1995 and went on to earn a diploma in hospitality management from Bhartiya Vidya Bhawan, New Delhi in 1998.

His rich industry experience and deep understanding of hospitality operations are expected to further strengthen Wyndham Garden Jim Corbett’s position as a preferred choice for travellers visiting this scenic wildlife haven.


Dishant Baria Joins Courtyard Aravali Resort Faridabad as Executive Sous Chef

Dishant Baria Joins Courtyard Aravali Resort Faridabad as Executive Sous Chef

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 1, 2025

Courtyard Aravali Resort Marriott, located in the scenic surroundings of Faridabad, has appointed Dishant Baria as its new Executive Sous Chef. Bringing with him more than 12 years of rich culinary experience, Baria is set to infuse the resort’s dining offerings with creativity and finesse.

Throughout his career, Dishant has worked with some of the most prestigious hospitality brands including Hyatt, Imperial, Westin, and ITC. His deep-rooted passion for crafting exceptional dining experiences and his flair for blending traditional flavours with modern techniques have earned him accolades from guests and peers alike.

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Before joining Courtyard Aravali Resort, Baria was part of the culinary team at Westin Gurgaon, New Delhi. Reflecting on his journey, Dishant shared, "My time at Westin Gurgaon was an incredible experience. I had the privilege of working alongside a team of highly skilled professionals, which helped further refine my approach to culinary excellence."

In his new role, he will lead the culinary team at Courtyard Aravali Resort, focusing on enhancing the gastronomic journey for guests while maintaining the highest standards of quality and innovation. His leadership is expected to elevate the resort’s dining experiences across all outlets.

With this appointment, Courtyard Aravali Resort aims to further strengthen its culinary offerings, blending the beauty of its natural setting with an unforgettable gastronomic experience.

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