With his vast and diverse experience spanning sales, marketing, retail, entertainment, hospitality, and restobar operations, Dharmendra R. S. adds yet another feather to his cap as he takes on this strategic leadership role at a time when Icon Hotels is entering a dynamic expansion phase. The brand is actively working towards building a portfolio of 100+ hotels on management contract across the country, covering multiple formats within the hotel chain.
This appointment comes at a crucial time when India’s tourism and hospitality sector is witnessing unprecedented momentum. With branded hotel inventory in state capitals alone nearing one lakh keys and expected to grow multifold in the coming years, Icon Hotels is strongly positioned to capitalize on this rapid boom. The company is also setting its sights on Tier 2 cities and spiritual tourism destinations, both of which are emerging as high-potential hospitality markets.
Looking ahead, the next five years will also see the Bhagini Group foraying into the luxury hospitality segment, catering to the evolving preferences of elite and discerning travelers. Dharmendra’s leadership is expected to play a critical role in shaping this roadmap, streamlining operations, and driving the group’s expansion to greater heights.
Beyond hotels, Bhagini Hospitalities is also accelerating growth across its food and beverage portfolio. The group is expanding its popular restobar brand Proxy Bar, which already has two successful operating outlets. Its strong restaurant portfolio includes Andhra Grand and Telugu Bilas, while Telugu Vilas, the brand focused on biryani and meals, is eyeing three new outlets this year and potentially 20 more over the next five years. Meanwhile, Kalpaney, the group’s vegetarian fine-dine concept, is set to launch its second outlet in Indiranagar this month.
Adding further excitement to the pipeline are the relaunch of Jamming Goat, Brookfield, envisioned as an all-day bar concept tailored for Gen Z, featuring sober drinks and chic interiors, and a new terrace speakeasy sky bar in Bellandur, which promises to curate out-of-the-world cocktail experiences.
With such rapid expansion and a sharper focus on restructuring its growth model, Dharmendra R. S. is expected to play a pivotal role in maneuvering the Bhagini Group into its next phase of success.
An eminent hospitality leader, Dharmendra R. S. is widely recognized across the industry for his active presence and thought leadership. He has represented the hospitality fraternity of Bengaluru at several prestigious national forums, including the Food Connoisseurs India Convention, World of Hospitality, Phygital Retail Convention, Restaurant India Awards, India Food Forum, and FFCC. He also serves as the Senior Vice President of the AHPWI South India Chapter.
In recognition of his transformative contribution to the industry, Dharmendra was recently conferred the title of Best Transformational Hospitality Leader at the FCIC event in Bengaluru.
His appointment signals a strong and exciting new chapter for Icon Hotels and Bhagini Hospitalities Pvt. Ltd., as the group charts an aggressive and visionary expansion path across hospitality, restaurants, bars, and lifestyle experiences.
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