The hospitality industry in India has a history that is deeply intertwined with the country’s cultural, social, and economic evolution. Its origins can be traced back to ancient India, where hospitality was considered a sacred duty and an integral part of social life. The principle of *Atithi Devo Bhava*, meaning "the guest is equivalent to God," was a guiding philosophy in Indian society, reflected in both religious texts and social customs. This philosophy ensured that travelers, pilgrims, and visitors were offered food, shelter, and comfort without expecting monetary return, laying the foundational ethos of Indian hospitality. In ancient times, accommodation facilities were primarily organized around temples, monasteries, and royal establishments. Temples often provided rest houses (*dharmshalas*) for pilgrims, offering basic lodging and meals. These facilities were simple yet functional, emphasizing cleanliness, security, and respect for guests. Similarly, Buddhist monasteries and Jain establishments offered lodging to travelers and traders moving along pilgrimage routes. The Mauryan and Gupta periods saw further institutionalization of these services, particularly along trade routes where inns (*sarais*) and waystations catered to merchants, caravans, and government officials, reflecting an early recognition of the economic importance of hospitality services. During the medieval period, hospitality in India evolved under the influence of various dynasties and empires. The Mughal era, in particular, left a lasting mark on accommodation facilities and luxury services. Mughal rulers and nobility established elaborate guest houses, palaces, and caravanserais that catered to visiting dignitaries, traders, and nobles. These facilities combined opulence with functionality, offering amenities such as gardens, private baths, and cultural entertainment. The Mughal emphasis on architecture and aesthetics also influenced later hotel design, establishing standards for comfort, grandeur, and service quality that would shape modern hospitality practices. The arrival of European powers, especially the British, marked a new phase in the development of India’s hospitality industry. The British colonial administration introduced structured accommodations to cater to their officials, military personnel, and business travelers. Clubs, bungalows, and hotels were constructed in urban