AHP Aatithya Mandapam Opens at AAHAR 2026 in New Delhi

The Association of Hospitality Professionals (AHP) has inaugurated AHP Aatithya Mandapam, powered by Hotremai, as part of Hospitality Challenges – AAHAR Edition 2026 at Hall No. 1, First Floor, Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi.

Scheduled from 10 to 14 March 2026, the five-day initiative serves as a national platform bringing together hospitality professionals for competitions, knowledge sessions and industry dialogue. Sonica Malhotra, Joint Managing Director of MBD Group, attended the opening ceremony as the Chief Guest.

National Participation from Hospitality Professionals

The event has attracted over 400 hospitality professionals from across India who are competing in various categories spanning Housekeeping, Front Office, Food & Beverage Service, and Sales.

Competitions are being assessed by a panel of 70 jury members from the hospitality sector. The event has also drawn participation from more than 200 senior industry leaders, including Vice Presidents, CEOs, and General Managers, highlighting strong engagement from the hospitality community.

Emphasis on Inclusivity in Hospitality

A key highlight of the initiative is the participation of persons with disabilities, who are competing alongside other professionals across hospitality competition categories.

The initiative reflects AHP’s broader commitment to promoting equal opportunities, diversity, and inclusive growth within the hospitality workforce.

Competitions, Masterclasses and Industry Conversations

The opening day featured several competitions including Art of Bed Making, Guess the Linen, and Stain Removal challenges.

Industry-focused learning sessions were also organised, including a masterclass by STAS Chemical Products and a discussion on the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in hotel operations.

The day also hosted a talk show and a podcast-style discussion titled “Roseate Hotels & Resorts – The Intelligent Hotel: Where Technology Thinks Ahead of the Guest.” During the session, Kush Kapoor, CEO of Roseate Hotels & Resorts, joined Devipshita Gautam, Founder and Chairperson of AHP, to discuss how technology and innovation are shaping the future of hospitality experiences.

Upcoming Competitions and Knowledge Sessions

Over the remaining days of the event, AHP Aatithya Mandapam will host a range of competitions including:

• Situation Handling in Front Office

• Design Your Hotel

• Art of Towel Folding

• Art of Napkin Folding

• Art of Table Setup

• Sales Pitch Challenges

The pavilion will also feature masterclasses and panel discussions addressing topics such as sustainability in housekeeping, hotel sales strategies, hospitality technology, and inclusive industry practices.

Recognising Industry Leaders

As part of the programme, AHP will also honour 50 senior hospitality leaders, including Vice Presidents, CEOs, and General Managers, acknowledging their contributions to the growth and development of the hospitality sector.

Encouraging Skill Development and Professional Growth

Speaking about the initiative, Devipshita Gautam, Founder and Chairperson of the Association of Hospitality Professionals, noted that the platform aims to recognise hospitality professionals and encourage industry learning.

By bringing together professionals, industry leaders and individuals from diverse backgrounds, the initiative seeks to promote skill development, collaboration and career growth across the hospitality ecosystem.