We recently celebrated our Independence Day. A grand occasion of festivities across the country; being our platinum jubilee of independence, aptly called the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’.  AKAM is an initiative of the Government of India to commemorate 75 years of independence and the glorious history of its people, culture and achievements. It is dedicated to the people of India who have not only been instrumental in bringing the nation this far in its evolutionary journey but also hold within them the power and potential of creating ‘Aatmanirbhar’ Bharat or a country that’s self reliant. The festival commenced on 12th March 2021; kick starting a 75 week countdown to India’s 75th anniversary of independence and will end on 15th August 2023 with the emphasis on re-living and commemorating milestones around the following themes as suggested by the government: (Inputs taken from the AKAM website, with due credits)

Freedom Struggle

It’ll help bring forth the stories of unsung heroes whose sacrifices gave our country the freedom. This would be achieved by revisiting milestones and freedom movements leading to our independence on August 15, 1947.

Ideas@75

Under this theme, the country will be celebrating events inspired by ideas and ideals that have shaped us as a nation. Also it’ll guide us as we navigate through the period of 25 years between India@75 and India@100.

Resolve@75

We must focus on a collective resolve and determination to make our country stronger by committing to achieve desired goals and targets. The journey to 2047 will require each one of us to diligently impart our duties as responsible individuals, groups, civil society, institutions of governance etc. The emphasis clearly being on ‘planet and people’ while being driven by a deep sense of purpose.

Actions@75

The main objective will be to highlight steps being taken to implement policies and actualise commitments, in order to propel India towards its rightful position in the new world order.

Achievements@75

It is intended to archive our collective achievements as a 75 year old independent country with a legacy of 5000+ years. This theme focuses on showcasing evolution and progress across different sectors by marking the passage of time while highlighting milestones along the way.

I was trying to move these resolves across the hospitality industry, as India is an epitome of the culture of hospitality and tradition. We are known the world over for our unmatched hospitality which is said to be caring with the adage, ‘Guest is God’. In this year of celebrations we must ideate to bring out what we can do to commemorate AKAM and pay tribute to the industry.

It can be highlighted through food, décor, events, competitions and much more. The participation should be extended to guests as well not limiting it to the hotel staff and the local community. Food walks can be organized for guests visiting heritage sites and eateries of the bygone era. Hotels can showcase the ‘ideas and ideals’ in the form of décor highlighting India@75 and what we can look forward to India@100.

Hotels can bring forth their commitments especially with regards to sustainability in all its forms. Developing a clear focus and resolve on environment while empowering the local community.

It will be heartening to see the growth and development of the hospitality industry in the last 75 years. The story of transition can be curated.  We have the power of the internet now; archiving the valuable content will not be difficult. Imagine the wealth of information that will be at our disposal and the same can be passed on to the generations of future hospitality professionals.

As it is rightly said, “You are the author of your life and you have the option to edit or change the script”. We have the opportunity to collectively as a fraternity, collate the important facets of our industry in the last 75 years and create a roadmap for the next 25 years so that we built a robust industry and uphold our unique culture of caring hospitality.

PS: Article was first published in ET Hospitality World. Picture is taken from Google with due credits