Machan Resorts LLP is Dominating the 2026 Global HR Landscape

In the high-stakes world of luxury hospitality, the conversation usually revolves around infinity pools, farm-to-table menus, and breathtaking architecture. However, on 16 February 2026, the narrative shifted. At the glitzy 34th Edition of the World HRD Congress – Global HR Excellence Awards, held at the iconic Taj Lands End in Mumbai, it was the “human” behind the hospitality that took centre stage.
Machan Resorts LLP, a brand synonymous with eco-conscious luxury and treehouse retreats, emerged as the evening’s biggest winner. By securing the prestigious Best Workplace Practices title, the organisation has sent a clear message to the industry: in 2026, a brand’s soul is measured by its employee satisfaction, not just its occupancy rates.
A Hat-Trick of Excellence
The Global HR Excellence Awards are the “Oscars” of the human resources world, celebrating organisations that treat people strategies as a core business driver rather than a back-office function. For Machan Resorts, the night was a triple-crown victory, proving that their leadership is as robust as their workplace culture.
1. The Visionary at the Helm
The Visionary Leader Award was presented to Mr. Rakshit Sharma, the Chief Operating Officer of Machan Resorts LLP. In an industry often criticised for high turnover and rigid hierarchies, Sharma has been the architect of a “people-centric” revolution. His leadership style—focused on making talent feel “valued, heard, and inspired”—has transformed the resort from a destination into a community.
2. The Culture Catalyst
Culture doesn’t happen by accident; it is engineered. Ms. Sakshi Sarmandal, Director – Talent & Culture, was honoured with the HR Achiever of the Year Award. This recognition highlights her relentless work in talent development and her ability to weave the brand’s eco-conscious values into the very fabric of the employee experience.
3. The Best Workplace Practices Title
This collective win is perhaps the most significant. It validates Machan Resorts’ commitment to “Best Workplace Practices,” a category that scrutinises everything from employee wellness and mental health to innovative training and accountability.
Why Culture is the New Luxury
Sanat Hooja, Partner at Machan Resorts, encapsulated the brand’s philosophy perfectly: “Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Strong culture and empowered teams are the foundation of sustainable success.”
In 2026, the “S” in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) has become a primary differentiator for luxury brands. Travellers are increasingly savvy; they can sense when staff are genuinely empowered versus when they are merely following a script. By investing in its people, Machan Resorts is effectively investing in its guest experience. An inspired employee doesn’t just deliver a service; they deliver a memory.
Setting the Benchmark in Eco-Conscious Hospitality
Machan Resorts has always been a forward-thinking brand. Known for its unique treehouse accommodations that float above the canopy, the resort has set benchmarks for environmental stewardship for years. However, these latest accolades prove that they are equally committed to social sustainability.
The “Best Workplace Practices” title isn’t just a trophy for the shelf; it is a signal to the talent market. As the hospitality sector faces global labour shortages, Machan Resorts is positioning itself as the “employer of choice.” They aren’t just looking for staff; they are looking for innovators and ambassadors who believe in their mission of excellence.
The Rakshit Sharma Philosophy: Beyond the Paycheque
During his acceptance speech, Rakshit Sharma noted that building a workplace where talent feels inspired has been the “core focus” of his tenure. This reflects a broader 2026 trend where “Visionary Leaders” are those who look beyond the bottom line.
Modern HR strategies at Machan Resorts include:
- Accountability Frameworks: Empowering junior staff to make executive-level decisions on guest happiness.
- Continuous Innovation: Encouraging employees to suggest eco-friendly upgrades to the resort operations.
- Wellness Integration: Ensuring that the calm, natural environment of the “Machan” (the lookout point) is reflected in the staff’s mental well-being.
Conclusion: A Legacy in the Making
As the curtains fall on the 34th World HRD Congress, Machan Resorts LLP stands as a beacon of what modern Indian hospitality can achieve. By winning across three critical categories—Leadership, Individual Achievement, and Collective Practice—they have proven that their success is no fluke.
In 2026, the most successful brands are those that realise their employees are their first and most important “guests.” By empowering their team, Machan Resorts has ensured that its position as a global leader in both guest experience and employee empowerment is not just maintained, but strengthened.
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