Varanasi to Host 2,000+ Leaders for the 56th Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India

The spiritual heart of India is set to become the epicentre of the nation’s hospitality sector as the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) officially announces its 56th Annual Convention. Scheduled to take place from 21st to 23rd August 2026 at the prestigious Taj Ganges, Varanasi, this edition is poised to be one of the largest and most influential gatherings in the organisation’s history.

With an expected turnout of over 2,000 delegates, the convention will serve as a high-level confluence of senior government leadership, policymakers, global hospitality titans, and visionary entrepreneurs. The event arrives at a critical juncture for the industry, focusing on a dual strategy: reinforcing the domestic travel economy while simultaneously elevating India’s allure for the international inbound market.

A Legacy of Dialogue and Leadership

The FHRAI Annual Convention has long established itself as the premier platform for public-private dialogue in India. Its influence is reflected in the high-calibre leadership that has graced previous editions. Past conventions have seen participation from figures such as Shri Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh; Dr. Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa; Shri Siddaramaiah, Chief Minister of Karnataka; and Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Tourism.

Continuing this tradition, the 56th edition in Varanasi is expected to witness a significant presence from key ministries and state representatives. This ensures that the conversations held within the halls of the Taj Ganges translate into actionable policy and strategic growth for the hospitality ecosystem.

Strategic Focus: Future-Ready Hospitality

The three-day itinerary is meticulously designed to address the “new normal” of global travel. The hospitality industry in 2026 is no longer just about accommodation; it is about immersive experiences, technological integration, and environmental stewardship. The convention will feature:

• Keynote Sessions: Leading experts will dissect emerging traveller expectations and the shift toward “experiential” tourism.
• Leadership Dialogues: Focused discussions on investment opportunities and navigating the financial complexities of large-scale hospitality projects.
• Sustainable Development: A core theme will be “future-ready” destination excellence, ensuring that tourism growth does not come at the cost of India’s cultural or natural heritage.
• Innovation Platforms: Exploring how digital transformation is reshaping guest services and operational efficiency.

Varanasi: The Perfect Backdrop

Choosing Varanasi as the host city is a strategic masterstroke. As one of the world’s oldest living cities, it offers a powerful backdrop of heritage and culture that aligns perfectly with the convention’s goals. It serves as a living laboratory for “destination excellence,” where ancient traditions meet the demands of modern, immersive visitor experiences.

Mr Surendra Kumar Jaiswal, President of FHRAI, emphasised the significance of the location, noting that it highlights the richness of India’s cultural landscape while encouraging meaningful conversations around sustainable growth. “The 56th FHRAI Annual Convention reflects the continued evolution and resilience of India’s hospitality and tourism sector,” Jaiswal stated.

Strengthening the Tourism Economy

The ultimate goal of the convention is to solidify India’s position as a dynamic, diverse, and reliable travel destination. By bringing together academicians, investors, and practitioners, FHRAI aims to create a roadmap that balances the robust growth of domestic travel with a revitalised approach to attracting global travellers.

As the industry moves forward with renewed momentum, the 56th Annual Convention stands as a testament to the resilience of Indian hospitality. It is not merely a meeting of professionals; it is the drafting of a blueprint for a vibrant, sustainable, and world-class future for Indian tourism.

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