MAM
Sahara Star checks in new leadership to elevate luxury and innovation
MUMBAI: Mumbai’s iconic luxury hotel, Sahara Star, has rolled out a suite of leadership appointments, reinforcing its commitment to guest excellence, operational efficiency, and culinary innovation. With a focus on elevating hospitality standards, these key promotions and new hires mark an exciting chapter in the hotel’s growth story.
Santosh Singh steps up as hotel manager, bringing over 22 years of experience across hospitality, ITES, retail, and FMCG. Previously head of procurement for Sahara Star and Aamby Valley City, Singh has been instrumental in streamlining operations and driving cost efficiency. His strategic mindset and process-driven approach make him the perfect choice to lead the hotel’s next phase of excellence.
Joining the ranks is Vikram Prakash Bhardwaj, appointed as head of revenue, strategy & growth. A specialist in AI-driven business intelligence and revenue management, Bhardwaj has nearly two decades of experience in driving profitability across hospitality verticals. His expertise spans rooms, F&B, banquets, memberships, and MICE, ensuring data-backed strategies for revenue optimisation.
The culinary team gets a star addition with chef Ranjan Rajani taking on the role of corporate chef, Sahara Star & Aamby Valley City. With 23 years of experience across Oberoi, Marriott, and Hyatt, he has been at the forefront of menu innovation, kitchen excellence, and redefining fine dining experiences. Expect exciting new culinary creations under his leadership.
Deepali Pinheiro, the newly appointed rooms division manager, moves up from her role as front office manager. Having worked with The Lalit, Western Hotel Abu Dhabi, and Almanar Hotels Dubai, she is set to redefine guest experiences by enhancing operational efficiency and front office service standards.
“The strength of a great hotel lies in the passion and expertise of its people. Our new leadership team embodies this spirit, bringing valuable experience and fresh perspectives to Sahara Star. Their commitment to excellence will help us set new benchmarks in hospitality, ensuring exceptional guest experiences and operational success,” said Sahara Star general manager Salil Fadnis.
In a dual role, Karishma Raghuvanshi takes over as head of training & recruitment at Sahara Star and business head of A-Star Academy, India’s only dedicated hotel school. With her strong background in talent acquisition and hospitality training, she is set to bridge the gap between industry talent and opportunity, shaping the future of hospitality education.
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
