Two-Day Regional Convention Held to Mark the Platinum Jubilee of the Hotel and Restaurant Association

Mumbai, Oct 2025 : The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) organized its 20th Regional Convention at Taj Lands End, Bandra, to mark its Platinum Jubilee (Amrit Mahotsav). The two-day convention proved to be a significant event aimed at boosting the tourism sector. During the convention, several key topics concerning tourism development were discussed in detail.

Eminent personalities from the tourism industry attended the convention and presented important ideas to further promote tourism. The discussions held during the event were instrumental in shaping strategies to give Maharashtra’s tourism sector greater global recognition.

Speaking on the occasion, Nilesh Gatne, Managing Director of the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), said that Maharashtra Tourism is entering a new era with the goal of accelerating the growth of the sector. He highlighted that several forts of Maharashtra have recently been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. “We are inviting the hospitality sector to collaborate with us so that these sites achieve global standards in tourism,” he added.

General Manager Chandrashekhar Jayswal informed that five beaches from Maharashtra have been included in the Blue Flag certified list—Paranaka in Dahanu, Shrivardhan and Nagaon in Raigad district, and Guhagar and Ladghar in Ratnagiri district. He also announced the unveiling of an underwater tourism project in Sindhudurg, which includes the creation of an underwater museum featuring the decommissioned naval ship INS Guldar and the development of an artificial island.

The convention also saw participation from Assistant Director Sushil Pawar and senior officials from the Directorate of Tourism.

HRAWI President Jimmy Shaw stated that the association was established in 1951 and has since strengthened its position across western India. “On the occasion of our 75th anniversary, we will continue to work in collaboration with the Government of Maharashtra to further boost and strengthen the tourism and hospitality industry,” he said.

During the event, renowned actor and filmmaker Boman Irani felicitated former presidents of the association by presenting them with awards in recognition of their contributions.