Priyanka Saxena Ray
How has the past year been for The Lalit Group in terms of business recovery, growth, and guest experiences across your portfolio?
The momentum that began post-pandemic has translated into a strong and sustained recovery—reflected in both occupancy and a shift in how guests are choosing to travel. They are looking for personalised, unique journeys that align beautifully with what we stand for: experiences that are rooted in culture, inclusive and Distinctly Lalit. Whether it’s through our wellness offerings, community engagement, or heritage-rich hospitality, we’ve seen our guests connect with us in ways that go far beyond a traditional hotel experience.
You’ve been a longstanding supporter of the Great Indian Travel Bazaar. How have you seen the show evolve over the years, especially in terms of its global relevance and impact?
It’s been fascinating to watch this platform grow from a focused tourism showcase to a globally significant hub for inbound travel. What I appreciate most is how the format allows for genuine conversations. Year after year, we’ve seen high-quality buyers, meaningful face-to-face interactions, and long-term relationships being built. It has helped position India as not just a destination, but as a layered, vibrant experience worth exploring deeply.
What, in your view, sets this edition apart from previous ones? Are there any new trends, partnerships, or focus areas we should be looking out for?
This edition feels sharper and more future-facing. There’s a clear shift toward responsible tourism—whether it’s sustainability, LGBTQ+ inclusion, or regional exploration. I’m also seeing more energy around niche verticals such as heritage wellness, craft trails, and immersive experiences. Everyone—from government to private players—is thinking about how India can stand out in ways that are meaningful, not just marketable. That’s a very welcome change.
What are your expectations from this year’s edition as a platform for promoting inbound tourism and strengthening India’s global tourism brand?
India has so many stories to tell and a platform such as this is where these narratives find the right audience. With buyers from over 50 countries and thousands of business meetings lined up, the potential is immense. My hope is that we shift the narrative from just monuments and maps to people, culture, and community. That’s what makes India magical, and that’s what will keep travellers coming back.
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