Mumbai, Feb 04: The Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI commenced its 75th year on the 3rd of February 2025, celebrating a rich legacy of leadership, advocacy and industry excellence. HRAWI is a part of the national body of FHRAI, which was originally founded in Mumbai in 1950, by the late Mr. J.R.D Tata. Established in 1951 by hospitality visionaries including A.P. Sabavala, Maneck S. Shaw and other pioneers, HRAWI has played a crucial role in shaping the hospitality landscape of Western India. Representing over 1,500 hotels and restaurants across Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa and the Union Territories of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, HRAWI has been instrumental in driving policy reforms, industry growth and sustainable hospitality practices.
Over the past seven decades, HRAWI has set numerous benchmarks, including being the first hospitality association to receive ISO certification, securing trademark registration and introducing IHQS – an independent hospitality qualification system.
“Our 75th year is a testament to the resilience, innovation and commitment of our members. HRAWI has been at the forefront of industry transformation, ensuring that the hospitality sector thrives amid evolving challenges. The Association has been instrumental in designing hospitality education syllabi for Mumbai University, NCHMCT and MSBTE-affiliated colleges. Additionally, it has played a crucial role in urban planning by helping identify tourism zones and residential-commercial areas in Mumbai. As we celebrate this milestone, we reaffirm our dedication to promoting growth, advocating for progressive policies and strengthening India’s position as a global tourism hub,” says Mr Jimmy Shaw, President, HRAWI.
Over the decades, HRAWI has actively collaborated with the Government and industry stakeholders, facilitating initiatives such as skill development programs, regulatory advocacy and sustainability efforts. As a part of the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), HRAWI continues to influence national hospitality policies. The Association has been led by esteemed industry stalwarts who have left an indelible mark on the sector. Their leadership has guided HRAWI in navigating economic shifts, regulatory changes and technological advancements.
“Our journey has been one of progress, innovation and perseverance. The hospitality industry is a key driver of India’s economy, and as we move forward, our focus remains on enhancing Ease of Doing Business, advocating tax rationalization and promoting an inclusive and sustainable hospitality ecosystem. HRAWI will continue to champion initiatives that empower our members and contribute to the growth of Indian tourism,” says Mr Pradeep Shetty, Spokesperson, HRAWI.
HRAWI has hosted prestigious regional conventions across Lavasa, Pune, Colombo and Nashik, focusing on themes such as sustainable development, global tourism and industry resilience. In 2024, the Association launched the ‘Empowering Hospitality Conclave & Awards’ series, successfully hosting events in Pune, Ahmedabad and Nagpur. These conclaves have become key platforms for knowledge exchange, industry networking and policy discussions.
“With a focus on sustainability, HRAWI is planning to sign MoU with AIC-BARC to implement solid waste management technologies in hotels and resorts. In partnership with FSSAI, the Association has trained and certified close to 3,300 hospitality professionals in food safety under the FoSTaC program. Additionally, HRAWI has promoted green initiatives by collaborating with organizations like IGBC, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism,” adds Mr Shetty.
HRAWI’s Scholarship Trust, established in 1974 has been a cornerstone of our commitment to hospitality education, offering grants to IHM students for decades. Several industry stalwarts have contributed to this initiative, nurturing the next generation of hospitality professionals.
“As we step into our 75th year, HRAWI remains dedicated to promoting industry growth, advocating for policy reforms and driving sustainability. The Association is set to roll out special initiatives and commemorative events throughout the year, further strengthening its mission to elevate the hospitality sector. Our journey has been one of progress, innovation and perseverance and as we move forward, we will continue to champion initiatives that empower our members and contribute to the growth of Indian tourism. We will continue to be the voice of the hospitality sector, ensuring that our industry thrives in the years to come,” concludes Mr Shaw.
About the Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI: –
The Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI is a 74 years old Association of Hotels and Restaurants in Western India. Its members include Restaurants and Hotels up to 5-Star Deluxe categories. With membership base spread across Western India, HRAWI covers Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa and Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, and is considered to be the voice of the Hospitality Industry. The association is part of the national body of the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), located in New Delhi, which was originally founded in Mumbai in 1950 by the late Mr J.R.D. Tata.
