The capital witnessed a spectacular celebration of talent and dedication as the AHP Hospitality Excellence Awards 2025brought together the finest minds in India’s hospitality and tourism sectors. Held at The Suryaa, New Friends Colony, the prestigious evening recognized exceptional contributions across culinary arts, hotel operations, and service leadership.
Hosted by the Association of Hospitality Professionals (AHP) — a not-for-profit committed to professional development and excellence in hospitality — the awards spotlighted individuals and institutions that have elevated industry benchmarks.
The evening’s highest honour, the Lifetime Achievement Award, was conferred upon Mr. Aman Nath, Founder of Neemrana Hotels, in recognition of his pioneering work in Indian heritage hospitality.
In her welcome address, Devipshita Gautam, Founder & Chairperson of AHP, reflected on the deeper purpose of the awards:
“These honours go beyond accolades. They are about giving voice to the people who shape unforgettable experiences — from chefs and housekeepers to educators and innovators. Every nominee represents the passion and precision that define Indian hospitality.”
Celebrating Excellence Across the Industry
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of outstanding professionals across multiple domains:
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Sharad Kumar Upadhyay, Crowne Plaza Greater Noida – Outstanding General Manager
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Parmeet Singh Nayar, VP Operations, GM Radisson Blu MBD – Outstanding Contribution to the Hospitality Industry
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Bharat Alagh – Culinary Arts
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Shashank Gulati – F&B Service
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Ayesha Ali – Housekeeping
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Vijayendra Thapa – Front Office
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Yamini Malhotra – Human Resources
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Tushar Abrol – Learning & Development
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Naresh Saini – Procurement
Culinary legends Chef Vivek Saggar and Chef Sireesh Saxena were inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Spotlight on Restaurants and Hotels
Among venue accolades:
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Spice Art, Crowne Plaza Greater Noida – Outstanding Fine Dining Restaurant
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Kiyan, The Roseate – Outstanding Multi-Cuisine Restaurant
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Kheer, Roseate House – Outstanding Restaurant
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Radisson Blu Plaza, Delhi Airport – Outstanding 5-Star Deluxe Luxury Hotel & Outstanding Green Initiatives
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Crowne Plaza Today, Okhla – Outstanding 5-Star Hotel
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Novotel New Delhi City Centre – Outstanding Debut Hotel
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Mastiff Grand La Villae – Outstanding Wedding Destination Hotel
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The Suryaa Hotel, the event host – Special Jury Choice Award
The event closed with a lively cocktail dinner, celebrating not just winners, but the entire hospitality community’s shared journey of excellence.
AHP Hospitality Challenge 2025: Showcasing Skill & Inclusion
Held earlier this month, the 8th edition of the AHP Hospitality Challenge brought over 350 participants from across India to compete in 20+ skills-based events spanning culinary, F&B, housekeeping, and front office.
A standout initiative, Sashakt – Empowering Special Ability Professionals, spotlighted specially-abled participants competing alongside peers, judged by 50+ senior industry leaders. The initiative reinforced AHP’s philosophy: skill and spirit matter more than limitations.
