Renewed Grandeur: Taj Mahal Hotel Marks 45 Years with Major Revamp

Renewed Grandeur: Taj Mahal Hotel Marks 45 Years with Major Revamp

By Author

Published on December 3, 2023

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), backed by the Tata Group, commemorates the 45th anniversary of its flagship property, the Taj Mahal Hotel in New Delhi, known colloquially as Taj Mansingh. Following a high-stakes public auction by the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) in 2018, IHCL retained ownership of this iconic hotel and embarked on an extensive renovation, investing nearly Rs 250 crore.

The revamp of the Taj Mahal Hotel reflects IHCL's commitment to keeping pace with evolving customer preferences while honouring its storied past. The hotel now boasts 40 luxury suites, including five themed suites that celebrate India's rich heritage. The introduction of two floors of luxury apartments, equipped with kitchens and wardrobe spaces, caters to guests seeking longer stays.

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IHCL's renovation extended to the hotel's dining spaces, such as Machan and House of Ming, alongside the reimagining of Chambers with luxury fashion and lifestyle brand Stefano Ricci. A collaboration with Johnny Walker has brought a new dimension to the hotel’s offerings with the blue label bar and cigar lounge. The hotel's wellness facilities have been expanded, and all pools are now heated, starting with this property.

Suma Venkatesh, IHCL's executive vice president for real estate and development, stated that the renovated hotel has already restored its pre-renovation levels of revenue and profits, despite higher lease rentals. She emphasised the transformation of the hotel's accommodation mix and the focus on luxury-driven and high-end offerings to drive rates.

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Vijay Thacker, MD of Horwath HTL India, pointed out that the addition of suites and apartments at the Taj Mahal Hotel is expected to strongly enhance rate gains, positively impacting profits. The Taj Mahal Hotel, with its prime location in Lutyens' Delhi, has always been a preferred choice for global travellers and dignitaries.

As per the NDMC details from 2018, IHCL's lease renewal for another 33 years involved a significant increase in the monthly licence fee. The renovation, according to Venkatesh, was not just an update but a re-envisioning of the property for the next decade, reflecting IHCL's foresight in hospitality trends.

The Taj Mahal Hotel, a symbol of luxury and prestige, remains integral to IHCL's portfolio, both emotionally and commercially, as one of the top five revenue-earning hotels in India for the group.


Hilton Bengaluru Launches ‘Republic Retreats’ for One-Night Getaways

Hilton Bengaluru Launches ‘Republic Retreats’ for One-Night Getaways

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 24, 2026

Hilton and Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park have launched Republic Retreats, an exclusive one-night stay package designed for urban travellers and staycation enthusiasts. Available for stays between 24 January and 1 February 2026, the offer combines flexibility, curated dining, and exceptional value.

Republic Retreats invite guests to unwind with thoughtful inclusions such as buffet breakfast, buffet lunch or dinner, and 24-hour check-in and check-out. Guests can also enjoy 50% off during Happy Hours at the bar (12 p.m. – 6 p.m., IMFL) and hotel credits on food & beverages, including alcohol, as well as laundry services (spa excluded).

At Hilton Garden Inn Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park, the package includes dining at F5 and generous hotel credits, while Hilton Bengaluru Embassy Manyata Business Park offers dining at Neo Kitchen along with attractive hotel credits.

With flexible timings, enticing dining options, and lifestyle perks, Republic Retreats make it easy to enjoy a quick getaway, celebrate a special occasion, or simply take a relaxing break. Bookings are now open for stays between 24 January and 1 February 2026.


ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts Ties Up with FLXHO to Strengthen Corporate Hospitality Presence in Gurugram

ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts Ties Up with FLXHO to Strengthen Corporate Hospitality Presence in Gurugram

By Hariharan U

Published on January 23, 2026

ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts has entered into a strategic alliance with FLXHO Hotels & Residences to accelerate sales growth and strengthen its market presence in Gurugram, one of India’s most significant corporate and technology hubs. The partnership brings FLXHO Cyber One, a 68-room property located in DLF Phase 3 on MG Road, under The Hoften brand, expanding ALIVAA’s footprint in the city.

With this addition, ALIVAA now oversees a strong Gurugram network comprising one flagship ALIVAA hotel and five The Hoften properties. The move is aimed at leveraging ALIVAA’s established distribution strength, corporate relationships, and sales expertise to drive higher occupancy and revenue across its Gurugram cluster.

Gurugram, often referred to as the Millennium City, continues to be a major base for Fortune 500 companies, multinational offices, and a rapidly growing startup ecosystem. This has resulted in sustained demand for efficient, well-connected corporate accommodation. The alliance positions ALIVAA to cater more effectively to this demand by integrating FLXHO Cyber One’s inventory into its commercial strategy.

FLXHO Cyber One joins The Hoften, ALIVAA’s business-focused brand designed for corporate travellers who value efficiency, connectivity, and functional comfort. The brand is positioned to appeal strongly to large corporate accounts seeking consistency and reliability across multiple locations within the city.

Commenting on the alliance, Vikramjit Singh, Founder, ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts, said, “Securing leadership in high-yield urban centres like Gurugram is central to our vision. This alliance marks the beginning of a long-term relationship with FLXHO, with plans to co-develop multiple future assets. It reinforces ALIVAA’s position as a preferred partner for owners focused on strong sales performance and professional management.”

Akash Bhatia, CEO – Managed & Franchise Business, ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts, added, “The FLXHO alliance is a calculated step to scale our mid-market sales capabilities. This is our fifth Hoften property in Gurugram and it allows us to offer corporate clients a reliable, high-volume network that drives stronger conversions and consistent value.”

Sharing his perspective, Nipun Bhandari, Founder, FLXHO, said the partnership would help unlock the full commercial potential of FLXHO Cyber One through ALIVAA’s extensive market reach and distribution strength. Sidharth Aggarwal, COO, FLXHO, noted that the collaboration aligns with FLXHO’s vision of offering flexible, adaptive living solutions for modern professionals.

The alliance was facilitated by Harpreet Chatwal, who highlighted that the integration of FLXHO’s asset into ALIVAA’s sales engine is expected to translate directly into higher occupancy and improved market share for both brands.

Through this partnership, ALIVAA and FLXHO aim to set a stronger benchmark in Gurugram’s corporate hospitality segment, combining flexible living concepts with a focused, performance-driven sales approach.


Day of Gratitude Marks the Beginning of an Annual Commitment to Community Giving

Day of Gratitude Marks the Beginning of an Annual Commitment to Community Giving

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 23, 2026

Radisson Blu Bengaluru Outer Ring Road has announced the launch of Day of Gratitude, a new annual initiative observed on January 14, centred on reflection, responsibility, and meaningful community giving. Envisioned as a long-term commitment, the initiative will support a different cause each year, guided by a simple yet thoughtful approach of listening first, understanding real needs, and responding with intention.

The initiative was observed for the first time on January 14 this year, with a focus on supporting a local government school in the neighbourhood. Contributions were directed towards fulfilling specific requirements identified through direct on-ground engagement, ensuring that the support addressed genuine and immediate needs.

As part of the initiative, proceeds generated from lunch and dinner services at Mélange, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, were dedicated towards supporting the local school. This effort reinforced the belief that everyday actions, when driven by purpose, can create a meaningful and lasting impact within the community.

Speaking on the initiative, Christina Roach, Director, Roach Lifescapes, owners and operators of Radisson Blu Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, said, “Radisson Blu Bengaluru Outer Ring Road has been part of this city since 2007, and we are deeply grateful for the trust and support extended to us over the years. This Day of Gratitude is our way of saying thank you for the love and support. Starting this year we would like to build a culture of giving that evolves year after year, shaped by the causes that need attention the most.”

She added, “This year, contributions generated at Mélange on January 14 were directed towards supporting local school children. In the years ahead, the cause may change, but the intent will remain constant, to give compassionately.”

Through Day of Gratitude, Radisson Blu Bengaluru Outer Ring Road aims to establish a sustained culture of empathy and responsibility, reinforcing its connection with the city while continuing to contribute positively to the community it calls home.

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