TV9 Network’s Lounge Knights Awards 2026 brought together some of the most influential voices in Indian hospitality for an evening that placed credibility, craft and consistency at the centre of the spotlight. Hosted at Hilton Gurugram, the invitation-only ceremony celebrated institutions and professionals who are redefining excellence across food, beverage, luxury stays and guest experience, setting a new benchmark for the industry.

According to a press release, the awards were conceived as a curated platform that values discernment over display and substance over spectacle. The 2026 edition reflected this intent, recognising brands and leaders who have consistently raised standards through innovation, integrity and an uncompromising focus on quality within India’s rapidly evolving hospitality ecosystem.

Presented by Radico Khaitan, co-powered by Morpheus – Be Your Dream, and styled by Mia by Tanishq, the evening brought together industry leaders shaping the country’s food and beverage narrative. The atmosphere reflected a shared appreciation for thoughtful luxury and refined experiences, rather than fleeting trends.

Barun Das, MD and CEO of TV9 Network, said the Lounge Knights Awards were designed with a clear editorial purpose. He noted that the platform aims to honour credibility rather than popularity, and to recognise hospitality brands and leaders who are genuinely influencing India’s culinary and nightlife landscape through excellence and integrity.

Radico Khaitan expressed its delight at partnering with the 2026 edition, describing the awards as an evening dedicated to elegance and refined experiences. The company highlighted the value of bringing together distinguished voices and meaningful conversations around contemporary luxury.

Conceptualised and curated by News9, the Lounge Knights Awards continue to position themselves as an editorially driven initiative anchored in rigorous curation. The platform celebrates restaurants, bars, lounges, pubs and hotels that demonstrate sustained excellence and innovation, while maintaining a long-term commitment to quality.

This year’s honours went to some of the most respected names in the industry, including Grand Hyatt Gurugram, The Lalit – Connaught Place, Radisson Blu Dwarka, ITC Mughal – A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Leela Convention Hotel – East Delhi, The Lodhi – New Delhi, Welcomhotel by ITC – Dwarka, Taj Surajkund, Roseate House – Aerocity and The Leela Palace – Chanakyapuri, among others. Each was acknowledged for setting enduring benchmarks in luxury, service and experiential hospitality.

Adding to the evening’s refined visual identity, Mia by Tanishq brought understated elegance that complemented the awards’ premium and carefully curated ethos. With its sharp editorial lens and emphasis on credibility, the Lounge Knights Awards continue to emerge as a definitive marker within India’s hospitality and lifestyle landscape, celebrating those who do not merely follow trends, but set them.