The Leela Palaces Launches 'Shefs at The Leela' Program

The Leela Palaces Launches 'Shefs at The Leela' Program

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on March 20, 2024

The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and Resorts have introduced an exciting initiative aimed at nurturing aspiring female chefs – the 'Shefs at The Leela' Programme. This structured culinary development program not only serves as a pathway to a career in the hospitality industry but also provides a solid foundation for long-term success within The Leela organization.

Launched on International Women’s Day 2024, the 'Shefs at The Leela' Programme was unveiled during the 5th edition of the event held at The Leela Palace Jaipur. The event featured a grand gala dinner curated by globally acclaimed women chefs, showcasing their expertise and celebrating culinary excellence.

Since its inception in 2022, 'Shefs at The Leela' has successfully hosted editions at various Leela Palaces locations, promoting equality in kitchen spaces and offering opportunities for aspiring female chefs to pursue their culinary dreams.

Anuraag Bhatnagar, CEO of The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and Resorts, expressed the organization's commitment to diversity and equity, stating, "We at The Leela are dedicated to creating an inclusive work environment that celebrates the achievements of women in hospitality. With the 'Shefs at The Leela' Programme, we aim to provide a platform for aspiring female chefs to excel and carve a niche for themselves in the industry."

The program, certified by The Leela, combines academic study with comprehensive on-the-job training, aiming to develop the next generation of culinary experts in various cuisines. Additionally, quarterly 'Shefs at The Leela' events will foster a vibrant culinary community, featuring masterclasses, panel discussions, and curated dinners prepared by celebrated women chefs.

Structured over two years, the program consists of two phases focusing on developing foundational culinary skills and advancing expertise. Graduates receive certification from The Leela, priority consideration for internal transfers and career advancement, and serve as brand ambassadors of the program.

Furthermore, The Leela Palaces, Hotels, and Resorts are expanding their commitment to gender diversity with initiatives like the Leela Leadership Development Programme (LLDP), aimed at strengthening competencies and skills across all organizational levels.

The 'Shefs at The Leela' Programme is not just about empowering female chefs; it's about creating a supportive and inclusive environment where culinary talent can thrive and flourish.


Lemon Tree Hotels Expands in Bihar with New Gaya Property

Lemon Tree Hotels Expands in Bihar with New Gaya Property

By Hariharan U

Published on September 18, 2025

Lemon Tree Hotels has announced the signing of its latest property Lemon Tree Hotel, Gaya, Bihar. The upcoming hotel will feature 56 well-appointed rooms, a restaurant, banquet and meeting facilities, along with a swimming pool, fitness centre, spa, and other public spaces. The property will be managed by Carnation Hotels Private Limited, the management arm and wholly-owned subsidiary of Lemon Tree Hotels Limited.

Strategically located, the hotel offers easy access to both Bodhgaya Airport (14 km) and Gaya Railway Station (6 km), while being well-connected by road for public and private transport.

Commenting on the signing, Kapil Sharma, Executive Vice President, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Lemon Tree Hotels, said, “With this signing, we further enhance and strengthen our footprint in Bihar, where we operate one hotel and have one more upcoming. This aligns with our strategy of expanding our brand across the country to delight our guests with comfortable options.”

Lemon Tree Hotels has steadily grown since its first 49-room property in 2004. Today, the group welcomes over 1.5 million guests annually across 110+ operational hotels in 75+ cities in India and overseas, with a pipeline of 110+ upcoming properties. Its network spans metro hubs such as Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, along with tier II and III cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Kochi, and Indore. Internationally, Lemon Tree Hotels is present in Dubai, Bhutan, and Nepal.

With the new signing in Gaya, Lemon Tree continues to build on its reputation for comfort, consistency, and refreshing hospitality — serving both business and leisure travellers alike.


ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts Hits 20-Property Milestone with The Hoften Lotus Court, Greater Noida

ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts Hits 20-Property Milestone with The Hoften Lotus Court, Greater Noida

By Hariharan U

Published on September 16, 2025

ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts has reached a new milestone with the addition of The Hoften Lotus Court in Greater Noida West, Uttar Pradesh, marking the 20th property in its growing portfolio. The launch strengthens ALIVAA’s footprint in a key market and aligns with its ambitious expansion strategy.

Operating under The Hoften brand, the hotel is designed for modern travellers seeking smart, efficient service combined with comfort and convenience.

Akash Bhatia, CEO of ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts (Managed & Franchise Business), said, "We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Hotel Lotus Court into The Hoften family and the wider ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts collection. Greater Noida is a dynamic destination, and this partnership enables us to offer our guests an even broader range of exceptional experiences. Hotel The Hoften Lotus Court perfectly embodies the unique charm and high standards of our brand, and we're confident it will be a valuable asset to our expanding portfolio."

Vikramjit Singh, Founder of ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts, highlighted the strategic significance of Greater Noida, "As we strive to become a leading national player, Greater Noida holds a critical position in our roadmap. This signing establishes our foothold in the country's growing corporate hub. The upcoming Jewar Airport will be a game-changer, boosting business and leisure travel and creating immense opportunities for us."

Arjun Singh, owner of The Hoften Lotus Court, shared his excitement, "Joining forces with ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts and bringing Hotel Lotus Court under The Hoften brand is a momentous occasion for us. Their deep expertise and commitment to guest satisfaction perfectly complement our vision. This is our second property with the same brand, reflecting our confidence and commitment. We look forward to delivering memorable experiences to our guests."

This milestone reinforces ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts’ dedication to expanding its portfolio, delivering exceptional stays, and creating unforgettable experiences across India’s key travel destinations.

About ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts:
ALIVAA Hotels & Resorts is a dynamic hospitality group focused on creating exceptional guest experiences. Operating under the ALIVAA and The Hoften brands, the company emphasizes quality, innovation, and guest delight, offering memorable stays across established and emerging destinations.


Treat Hotels & Resorts Expands to Rajasthan and Maharashtra with Two New Properties

Treat Hotels & Resorts Expands to Rajasthan and Maharashtra with Two New Properties

By Hariharan U

Published on September 13, 2025

Treat Hotels & Resorts is expanding its presence in North India with the addition of two new premium properties in culturally and historically significant destinations, Kumbhalgarh in Rajasthan and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar in Maharashtra.

The first, Treat Aranya Resort, Kumbhalgarh, marks the brand’s debut in Rajasthan. Set against the backdrop of the Aravalli Hills and close to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kumbhalgarh Fort, the resort offers a tranquil escape where heritage and modern comfort come together. Guests can expect spacious rooms, landscaped lawns, panoramic views, and a setting ideal for those seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration.

The second property, Treat Imperial, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, is positioned at the city’s heart and designed as an upscale venue for weddings, corporate retreats, and family getaways. With regal architecture, expansive banquet spaces, gourmet dining, and premium hospitality services, it caters especially to large-scale weddings and events while reflecting the cultural spirit of Sambhajinagar.

These launches mark a new chapter in our journey,” said Mr. Alok Mundra, Managing Director, Treat Hotels & Resorts. “We’re not just building properties; we’re creating destinations that celebrate India’s diversity in architecture, cuisine, and celebrations, without compromising on luxury.”

Adding to this, Devendra Singh, General Manager, Development & Acquisitions, noted, “These developments are a testament to our vision of expanding thoughtfully into destinations that hold cultural, historical, and economic significance.”

With these upcoming launches, Treat Hotels & Resorts strengthens its position as one of India’s fastest-growing hospitality brands. Both properties uphold the brand’s philosophy of offering meaningful celebrations, memorable escapes, and enriching experiences — all while preserving India’s timeless heritage.

For inquiries and partnerships, visit www.treatresorts.com.

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