Manish Pathak of Novotel Vijayawada Varun has won the Young GM Award 2026 at the Hotelier India GM Awards, recognizing his leadership and contribution to the hospitality industry.
Organised by ITP Media India in association with Hotelier India, the GM Awards celebrate hospitality leaders who have driven operational excellence, innovation, guest experience and business growth across the country. Winners were selected by an independent jury of leading industry experts.
The awards ceremony was held on 25 June 2026 in Bengaluru, bringing together hospitality professionals from across India to celebrate excellence in leadership across key categories, including Young GMs, ESG & Sustainability, Service Residences, Boutique Hotels and Resorts.
With over 15 years of experience in hospitality, Pathak has led Novotel Vijayawada Varun to sustained growth across revenue, guest experience and operational performance. He has overseen several high-profile events and welcomed distinguished guests, including the Prime Minister, President, Chief Ministers, renowned sportspersons and leading business personalities. His hands-on approach and operational expertise have played a pivotal role in the hotel’s continued success.
Speaking on the recognition, Manish Pathak said, “I am truly honoured to receive the Young GM Award 2026. This recognition belongs as much to my team at Novotel Vijayawada Varun as it does to me. People are the cornerstone of exceptional hospitality, and I have always focused on building a workplace rooted in collaboration, continuous learning and mutual respect. By investing in our team through training, recognition and skill development, we empower them to create memorable guest experiences every day. This award inspires us to keep raising the bar while embracing innovation and sustainability in everything we do.”
Pathak has also championed sustainability by embedding responsible practices into everyday hotel operations. His initiatives include reducing food waste through improved forecasting, responsible sourcing, menu optimization and a sustainability-led breakfast buffet that promotes mindful consumption. The hotel has also introduced complimentary EV charging facilities, transitioned from plastic to glass bottles and implemented resource-efficiency measures aligned with Accor’s ESG commitments.
These efforts are reflected in Novotel Vijayawada Varun’s Green Key Certification, a globally recognised benchmark for environmental responsibility in the hospitality industry.
