ES. With shifting global geopolitical dynamics impacting international travel and business events, how do you see destinations like Jaipur positioning themselves as resilient and attractive MICE hubs on the global stage?
Manuj Ralhan. In today’s changing global environment, destinations need to offer more than just infrastructure — they need to provide reliability, accessibility, safety, and meaningful experiences. Jaipur is steadily emerging in this space with its blend of world-class MICE infrastructure, heritage, culture, and warm hospitality.
At JECC and Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre, we have created an integrated ecosystem for seamless large-scale events. With two expansive exhibition halls, a 1,06,372 sq. ft. pillarless hall with 43-feet high ceilings, over 17,000 seating capacity across the main halls, and flexible indoor and outdoor venues, we are equipped to host diverse event formats under one roof.
Strong air connectivity, improved road infrastructure, and successful events such as IIFA 2025, the TiE Global Summit, Pravasi Rajasthani Diwas, and the 84th Annual Conference of AIOC 2026 are helping Jaipur strengthen its reputation as a reliable global MICE destination. With Jaipur International Airport just 10 minutes away and better access through the Delhi–Mumbai Expressway, the city is becoming increasingly convenient for both domestic and international delegates.
Beyond business, Jaipur also offers authentic cultural experiences through its heritage, cuisine, local crafts, and hospitality — creating memorable experiences that add value to every event. As organizers increasingly seek destinations that are dependable, experience-driven, and globally competitive, Jaipur is steadily positioning itself as a resilient and attractive MICE hub.
ES. Having led multiple luxury brands and turned around businesses into high-performing assets, what key leadership philosophies or decisions have been most instrumental in driving both profitability and team excellence at Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre complex?
Manuj Ralhan. Leadership today is about creating the right balance between people, performance, and long-term vision. At JECC & Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre, a strong focus has been placed on building a culture where every Heartist feels genuinely valued, motivated, and aligned towards delivering exceptional guest experiences. When people take pride in what they do and feel a sense of belonging within the organisation, that energy reflects directly in the quality of service they deliver.
Operational excellence, consistency, and attention to detail have equally played a major role in driving profitability and earning client trust. Whether managing large-scale conventions, day-to-day hospitality operations, or curated food and beverage experiences, seamless execution remains a non-negotiable priority. The true measure of that trust is visible in the loyalty of our clients — organisations like Material Recycling Association of India (MRAI), Indian Silver Jewellery, and Prudent, and celebrated artists like Karan Aujla and Rishabh Rikhiram Sharma, and many others have not only hosted landmark events with us but have chosen to return, placing their confidence in our property time and again. That repeat business is not a coincidence — it is the result of consistent delivery, genuine relationships, and a team that treats every event as if it were their own.
Adaptability and innovation are equally important — staying agile, embracing change, and continuously improving are qualities that separate good operations from truly enduring ones. Ultimately, the philosophy is simple — when teams feel empowered and guests receive genuine hospitality and truly memorable experiences, strong business performance naturally and inevitably follows.
ES As General Manager of the JECC, Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre complex, what are your strategic priorities for the next 3–5 years?
Manuj Ralhan. Over the next 3–5 years, our focus at JECC and Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre will not just be about growing bigger — it will be about growing better, creating more meaningful experiences, and cementing our position as one of India’s leading integrated MICE destinations.
The industry is evolving rapidly, and today’s guests expect far more than just infrastructure. They want seamless journeys, personalised experiences, and venues that can adapt across multiple formats — from global conventions, exhibitions, and corporate summits to destination weddings, concerts, and cultural celebrations. That versatility and responsiveness is exactly where we see ourselves growing stronger in the years ahead.
A major strategic priority will be strengthening Jaipur’s position on the global MICE map, expanding our presence in international events, and continuously enhancing our technology, sustainability practices, and service culture. At the same time, we want every event hosted here to reflect the warmth, culture, and energy of Jaipur — because that emotional connection is what truly makes an event unforgettable. But beyond business growth, our biggest investment will always remain our people. Strong teams, genuine relationships, and heartfelt hospitality are not just priorities — they are who we are, and they will continue to define the future we are building.
ES. You emphasize empowerment, emotion, and high-performance culture — how do you translate these values into daily operations, and what role does innovation play in building future-ready teams in the hospitality and events sector?
Manuj Ralhan. Empowerment, emotion, and a high-performance culture are not values that live only in a vision statement — they have to be felt on the floor every single day. At JECC and Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre, this means ensuring that every Heartist understands not just what they are doing, but why it matters. When a team member genuinely connects with the purpose behind their role, the quality of what they deliver changes completely. In practice, this means creating an environment where people are trusted to make decisions, encouraged to take ownership, and recognised when they go above and beyond. A high-performance culture is not built through pressure — it is built through clarity, consistency, and genuine care for the people who show up every day. Innovation is equally central to this journey. From integrating technology into event experiences to continuously reimagining how we engage with clients and guests, innovation keeps our teams sharp, curious, and future-ready. We actively encourage our people to think creatively, challenge convention, and bring fresh ideas to the table.
A great example of this was during the All-India Ophthalmological Society (AIOC) 2026, where we transformed a critical operational challenge into a unique culinary experience by introducing traditional bhattis, ensuring uninterrupted service while serving over 25,000 meals. It reflected both innovation and teamwork under pressure. Ultimately, a future-ready team is one that is emotionally invested, professionally empowered, and constantly evolving — and that is the standard we hold ourselves to at JECC and Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre.
