INSPIRING EXCELLENCE: ANIL KUMAR'S JOURNEY FROM APPRENTICE TO HOTELIER EXTRAORDINAIRE

After schooling at a prestigious Dehradun boarding school, where he spent twelve years until finishing his higher secondary education, Anil Kumar pursued his undergraduate studies at Delhi University. Unlike many luminaries in the hospitality sector, Anil Kumar did not graduate in hotel management. However, driven by his passion and guided by destiny, he found his calling in this industry, where he has excelled for an extensive period.

Reflecting on his journey, Anil Kumar acknowledges the pivotal role of Mr. Sanjay Kaushik, Senior Regional Director at Radisson Hotels, who served as his mentor. Today, as the second-incommand at Radisson Group, Anil Kumar oversees operations for its entire portfolio of ninety hotels. Remarkably, like Anil Kumar, Mr. Kaushik also lacks formal education in hospitality. Anil Kumar, a commerce graduate, recalls a time when uncertainty clouded his future path.

Despite not having pursued formal education in hospitality, Anil Kumar's affinity for the industry runs deep in his lineage. His father, a chef in Abu Dhabi, instilled in him a passion for hospitality from an early age. Anil Kumar's interest in dance led him to enroll in the prestigious Shiamak Davar Dance Academy. Yet, when he sought his father's blessing to pursue dance professionally, he was discouraged, being advised to focus on his career instead.

In 2003, Anil Kumar embarked on a short vacation to Abu Dhabi at the invitation of his father. During his stay, he crossed paths with Robert Van Merendonk, the General Manager of Abu Dhabi Sheraton Resorts and Hotels, who extended Anil his inaugural opportunity in the hospitality industry. "Recognizing a latent talent for communication within me, he offered me a position as a telephone operator," recalls Anil Kumar. This marked the humble commencement of his journey at one of Starwood's flagship properties in Abu Dhabi, boasting 272 rooms.

Through unwavering dedication and diligence, Anil swiftly ascended the ranks, progressing from his initial role to receptionist, and then to team leader within a remarkably brief timeframe.