on 28th April 2026 at TARAMATI BARADARI Hyderabad
ABOUT AWARDS
REGENCY LEADERSHIP AWARDS
Regency Leadership Awards by Regency College of Culinary Arts and Hotel Management is a prestigious annual event celebrating excellence and leadership within the hospitality industry. The awards ceremony honors distinguished industry legends, accomplished alumni, and outstanding students who have demonstrated exceptional achievements in culinary arts, hotel management, and related fields. It recognizes lifetime contributions, professional excellence, and emerging hospitality talent, fostering a spirit of legacy, innovation, and commitment to the future of hospitality. The event also showcases Regency College’s dedication to student success, with accolades for academic excellence, skill development, and leadership in sustainability and industry trends. It serves as a platform to connect students, alumni, and industry leaders, reinforcing Regency College’s reputation as a premier institution in hospitality education
AWARD CATEGORIES
LIFETIME ACHIVEMENT AWARD
The Lifetime Achievement Award at Regency College of Culinary Arts & Hotel Management is a prestigious honor bestowed upon individuals who have made significant, long-term contributions to the culinary and hospitality industry
GRAND REGENT AWARD
The Grand Regent Award is a distinguished accolade by Regency College of Culinary Arts & Hotel Management, honoring visionary leaders whose enduring contributions have shaped the culinary and hospitality industry.
ELITE REGENT AWARD
The Elite Regent Award is a prestigious recognition presented by Regency College of Culinary Arts & Hotel Management, honoring distinguished individuals whose sustained excellence and impactful contributions have elevated the culinary and hospitality industry.
STAR REGENT AWARD
The Star Regent Award celebrates rising stars and dynamic professionals whose talent, dedication, and impactful contributions are shaping excellence in the culinary and hospitality industry. It recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional promise, innovation, and a commitment to future leadership.
Chef Sudha Kumar
LIFETIME ACHIVEMENT AWARD
Chef Sudha Kumar, Former Joint Director at Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC), Former HOD (Food Production) at IHM Hyderabad, and Former Cuisine Ambassador to Malaysia, is a renowned hospitality expert and celebrity chef with over two decades of experience across government and premier hospitality institutions. Holding an MBA, M.Phil, and a Diploma in Hotel Management, he has contributed to prestigious events such as the Afro-Asian Games and high-level state banquets, while mentoring and shaping hospitality professionals across the globe.
He is widely respected for his deep industry knowledge, strategic leadership, and dedication to excellence in hospitality education and training. His continued efforts in promoting culinary standards and nurturing future talent have significantly contributed to the growth and global recognition of the hospitality industry.
REGENT Mr.Shrikant Wakharkar
GRAND REGENT AWARD
Mr. Shrikant Wakharkar, General Manager & Area Vice President – South & West at Park Hyatt Hyderabad, is a distinguished hospitality leader with over 20 years of experience in the luxury hospitality industry. He has held key leadership roles with globally renowned brands like Hyatt, building deep expertise in hotel operations, guest experience, and revenue management.
Through his visionary leadership and strategic approach, he has successfully driven business growth, operational excellence, and brand positioning across multiple properties. He is known for delivering exceptional guest experiences, strengthening team performance, and achieving consistent revenue growth in highly competitive markets.
His commitment to innovation, people development, and service excellence has made him a respected leader in the industry, contributing significantly to the success and reputation of luxury hospitality brands.
REGENT Mr. Vishal Srivastava
GRAND REGENT AWARD
Mr. Vishal Srivastava, General Manager at Vivanta by Taj, is a seasoned hospitality leader with extensive experience in hotel operations and brand management. With a strong career under the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), he has successfully led key functions across premium properties, gaining deep expertise in operations management, guest experience, and team leadership.
He is known for driving operational excellence, optimizing business performance, and delivering consistently high standards of guest satisfaction. His leadership style focuses on team development, service innovation, and maintaining brand standards in a competitive luxury hospitality environment.
Through his strategic vision and commitment to excellence, he has played a vital role in strengthening operational performance and enhancing the overall guest experience, making him a respected leader in the hospitality industry.
REGENT Mr. Ekant Sabharwal
GRAND REGENT AWARD
Mr. Ekant Sabharwal, General Manager of Hotel Golconda, is an experienced hospitality professional with a strong background in overseeing overall hotel operations, cost control, and business development. With proven expertise in managing day-to-day operations and driving financial performance, he has consistently ensured operational efficiency and service excellence.
He is known for his practical leadership style, strong problem-solving abilities, and focus on team performance. His commitment to optimizing resources, enhancing guest satisfaction, and achieving business growth has contributed significantly to the success and reputation of the organization.
REGENT Chef Naveen Nagaraj
GRAND REGENT AWARD
Chef Naveen Nagaraj, Corporate Chef at Tatva and Secretary of the Telangana Chefs Association, is a renowned culinary professional with extensive experience in the hospitality industry. He has worked with reputed kitchens, developing strong expertise in menu planning and modern vegetarian cuisine.
Known for his creativity and innovation, he specializes in crafting unique fusion dishes that blend traditional flavors with contemporary techniques. His dedication to culinary excellence and passion for elevating vegetarian cuisine have earned him recognition and respect within the industry.
REGENT Chef Ramesh Yadav
GRAND REGENT AWARD
Chef Ramesh Yadav, Joint Secretary of the Chefs Association of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh and Executive Chef at Hotel Abode, is an accomplished culinary professional known for his leadership in professional kitchens and commitment to excellence. With extensive industry experience, he has played a key role in training and mentoring young chefs while promoting high culinary standards.
He has actively contributed to the growth of the culinary community through his leadership and initiatives, and has also served as a faculty member at Regency College, sharing his expertise and shaping future hospitality professionals.
REGENT Ms.Vaishali Shahi
ELITE REGENT AWARD
Ms. Vaishali Shahi, Director of Human Resources at Park Hyatt Hyderabad, is a distinguished HR leader with over 17 years of exemplary experience in the hospitality industry. Having been associated with globally renowned brands such as Marriott International, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Accor, she has demonstrated exceptional expertise in talent management and organizational excellence.
Renowned for her visionary leadership and people-centric approach, she has been instrumental in fostering high-performance cultures, enhancing employee engagement, and driving strategic HR initiatives. Her commitment to excellence and passion for nurturing talent have significantly contributed to building resilient teams and elevating organizational success within the luxury hospitality sector.
REGENT Ms.Sonia D’Cunha
ELITE REGENT AWARD
Ms. Sonia D’Cunha, Director of Human Resources at Hilton Hyderabad Genome Valley Resort & Spa, is a distinguished HR professional with over 16 years of experience in the hospitality industry. She has been associated with prestigious brands such as The Leela Hyderabad, Hyatt Regency Trivandrum, and Grand Hyatt Kochi, demonstrating excellence across diverse hospitality environments.
Renowned for her expertise in talent management and leadership development, she has been instrumental in building high-performing teams and fostering a culture of excellence. Her people-centric approach, strategic vision, and commitment to organizational growth have significantly contributed to strengthening workforce capabilities and driving success in the hospitality sector.
REGENT Ms . Kiran Preet Kaur
ELITE REGENT AWARD
Ms. Kiran Preet Kaur, Multi-Property Director of Human Resources at Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre and Courtyard by Marriott Hyderabad, is a seasoned HR leader with extensive experience in the hospitality industry. With a strong association with Marriott International, she has successfully led key HR functions including talent management, training and development, and organizational leadership.
Recognized for her strategic vision and people-centric approach, she has played a pivotal role in building high-performing teams, strengthening organizational culture, and driving excellence across multiple properties. Her commitment to nurturing talent and enhancing workforce capabilities has significantly contributed to the success of the organizations she has been associated with.
REGENT Mr. Sujith Nambiar
ELITE REGENT AWARD
Mr. Sujith Nambiar, Director of Human Resources at Taj Krishna, is a seasoned HR leader with extensive experience in the luxury hospitality industry. Having worked with leading hotel brands, he has developed strong expertise in managing key HR functions, including talent management, employee engagement, and organizational development.
He is widely recognized for his people-centric leadership approach, playing a pivotal role in fostering positive workplace cultures and building high-performing teams. His strategic vision, commitment to excellence, and focus on enhancing employee experience have significantly contributed to organizational growth and operational success.
REGENT Mr. Ravikant TiberwalI
ELITE REGENT AWARD
Mr. Ravikant Tiberwal, Director of Finance at Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre, is a seasoned finance professional with over 17 years of experience in hospitality finance. A Chartered Accountant by qualification, he brings deep expertise in budgeting, financial planning, auditing, and taxation, with a strong track record across leading hotel brands, including Taj Group properties.
Known for his strategic financial leadership and analytical approach, he has been instrumental in driving financial efficiency, ensuring compliance, and supporting business growth. His ability to align financial strategies with organizational goals has significantly contributed to operational success and long-term sustainability.
REGENT Mr. Rahul Martis
STAR REGENT AWARD
Mr. Rahul Martis, President of the Alumni Association of Regency College (bhmct)and F&B Consultant and Food Blogger at Plategasm OG India Pvt. Ltd., is a dynamic professional in the food and beverage industry. With a strong focus on restaurant consulting, menu planning, and brand development, he has built a diverse portfolio across the F&B sector.
Known for his creativity and market insight, he has established a strong presence as a food blogger while helping brands enhance their dining concepts and customer experience. His innovative approach and passion for the industry continue to contribute to the growth and evolution of modern hospitality ventures.
REGENT Mr. Lakshmi Kanth
STAR REGENT AWARD
Mr. Lakshmi Kanth, Director and Co-founder of Uni Planet Overseas Education and an alumnus of Regency College (BHMCT), is an accomplished professional with over a decade of experience in international education consulting. He holds a Post Graduate Diploma from Pacific International Hotel Management School, New Zealand, bringing strong academic and global exposure to his role.
He specializes in student counselling, admissions, and visa guidance, and has successfully assisted numerous students in achieving their international education aspirations. Known for his personalized approach and commitment to student success, he has played a key role in guiding students toward global career opportunities.
REGENT Chef Vijayalakshmi
STAR REGENT AWARD
Chef Vijayalakshmi, an alumna of Regency College of Hotel Management (Culinary Diploma) and Junior Pastry Sous Chef in a luxury hotel kitchen, is an emerging talent in the world of pastry and bakery, recognized for her passion, precision, and creative excellence. Since beginning her culinary journey in 2017, she has honed her craft through dedicated hands-on experience in high-end kitchen environments.
Specializing in artisanal desserts and baked creations, she is known for her refined techniques, artistic presentation, and unwavering commitment to hygiene and quality standards. Her ability to blend creativity with consistency reflects her growing prominence in the pastry domain and her contribution to delivering exceptional culinary experiences.
REGENT Mr. Mukesh Rachakonda
STAR REGENT AWARD
Mr. Mukesh Rachakonda, Assistant Sales Manager at ITC Kohenur, is an emerging hospitality professional with a strong focus on sales and business development. He is an alumnus of Regency College of Culinary Arts & Hotel Management, where he completed his BHMCT.
Demonstrating consistent growth in his career, he has progressed into a managerial role within a leading luxury hospitality brand. He specializes in driving revenue, enhancing brand visibility, and building strong client relationships. His proactive approach, strategic mindset, and commitment to excellence continue to contribute to business success and position him as a promising talent in the hospitality industry.