In India, there is a lack of good public places for people to come together whether it is to share a common interest or for micro entrepreneurs to talk about their products or to just find the company of like-minded people without worrying about safety. Gatherings by Sheraton is an effort to make the hotel a part of the community, not just for the privileged who come to wine and dine but to open the doors to small businesses, people interested in discovering new talent (music, art, book/ poetry reading) and for the hotel to be a part of the social fabric of the city.
What was the inspiration behind the concept of Gatherings by Sheraton? How did this idea take shape?
Gatherings by Sheraton is a brand-wide global initiative from Sheraton brand, designed to position Sheraton as ‘The World’s Gathering Place’. This distinctive programming and community-building platform aligns with Sheraton’s vision of being ‘Where the World Comes Together’. By activating our public spaces, Gatherings by Sheraton fosters guest engagement and strengthens brand perception, encouraging both guests and locals to connect with people and places, ultimately creating meaningful and lasting connections.
How do you identify and bring together small businesses, artists, and like-minded individuals as part of this initiative?
At Sheraton Grand Pune, our focus is on creating experiences that truly resonate with our guests. We are deeply connected with Pune’s vibrant community and, over the years, we’ve built strong relationships with local businesses, artists, and entrepreneurs. Through collaborations with local event organisers, art galleries, and small businesses, we bring together individuals who share a passion for creativity and innovation.
Can you highlight some successful events or stories where Gatherings by Sheraton has made a significant impact on the community?
One of our most memorable events was Clay Therapy, which gave participants a special experience focused on wellness and mindfulness. The event combined creativity and mental well-being, reflecting Sheraton’s commitment to meaningful connections and unique experiences. With hands-on clay modelling, participants were able to express their emotions and creativity in a therapeutic and meaningful way. The connections built during this event left a deep and lasting impression on everyone involved.
Are there any collaborations with local organisations or businesses to amplify the impact of these gatherings?
Absolutely. We’ve partnered with organisations like Mindsight Clinic in Pune and Mumbai to offer unique experiences such as clay therapy. This wellness activity helps guests express themselves creatively while calming their minds and reducing anxiety and stress.
We’ve also collaborated with the Koli community to create an engaging experience featuring live cooking sessions. Guests learned authentic Koli cooking techniques and discovered secret family recipes from Koli chefs.
In-house, we host fun activities like chocolate-making sessions, where guests can craft their own chocolates while learning the art of tempering, molding, and decorating and the rich history of chocolate-making.
As sustainability is a key focus for our hotel, our spa manager introduced a creative ‘make your own scrub’ workshop using coffee waste. This concept was well-received, and many guests enjoyed participating in the session.
These collaborations, whether with local organisations or in-house talent, enrich the experience and allow us to contribute meaningfully to the community while providing a platform for local voices.
What is your long-term vision for Gatherings by Sheraton, and how do you plan to scale it up in the coming years?
Our goal is to make Gatherings by Sheraton a trusted hub for building connections in communities across India. In the coming years, we aim to expand this concept by hosting more events and collaborating with local businesses to showcase regional culture and talent.
Do you see this model being replicated at other Sheraton properties across India or globally?
Gatherings by Sheraton is a brand concept and across the globe, Sheraton hotels host weekly events that inspire both guests and locals by celebrating the stories, cultures, and unique experiences of the communities they serve.
Each region will, of course, tailor the concept to its local context, but the model of fostering local connections through our spaces is something that can be replicated across our portfolio.
Are there any upcoming events or new concepts under the Gatherings by Sheraton initiative that you’d like to share?
At Sheraton, we take pride in creating meaningful connections within our community. Our quarterly calendar is thoughtfully curated with activities like bangle-making, perfume crafting, and artist-in-residence activations, among others. These initiatives reflect our unwavering commitment to fostering creativity and collaboration, providing a vibrant platform where local talent and ideas can shine. Through Gatherings by Sheraton, we aim to establish a space that celebrates community engagement and inspires meaningful interactions.
As a General Manager, what does community building mean to you, and how has it influenced your leadership style?
Community building, to me, is about cultivating meaningful connections between the hotel and its local environment. It’s about creating spaces where individuals feel valued, heard, and empowered to engage with one another. This focus drives my leadership approach, guiding me to create unique, authentic experiences that bring guests closer to the community’s culture. Whether through regional cuisine, local art, or partnerships with local businesses, I strive to ensure that the hotel serves as a vibrant hub, reflecting the true essence of the area.
What challenges have you faced while implementing Gatherings by Sheraton, and how have you overcome them?
Gatherings by Sheraton has been an enriching and impactful initiative. While there were minor challenges, such as identifying the right partners, the unwavering support from local organisations and the dedication of our team ensured its tremendous success. This initiative has truly exemplified the spirit of connection and community that Sheraton stands for.
If you could describe the ideal impact of Gatherings by Sheraton in one sentence, what would it be?
Gatherings by Sheraton creates a space where meaningful connections are made, and communities thrive through shared experiences.
