Patanjali (Patu) Keswani is a first-generation entrepreneur and the Chairman and Managing Director of Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd., one of India’s largest hotel chains in the mid-priced segment. His journey reflects a blend of strong educational grounding, corporate experience, and an entrepreneurial vision to redefine hospitality in India.
Patu Keswani – Early Life and Education
Patu Keswani was born on February 9, 1959, in Lucknow, into a family with a service background. His father served as an officer in the Indian Railway Service, while his mother worked as a doctor with the Indian Army.
He completed his schooling at St. Columba’s School, New Delhi. In 1981, he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from IIT Delhi. He later pursued a Post Graduate Diploma in Business Management from IIM Calcutta in 1983.
Professional Career Before Entrepreneurship
After completing his education, Keswani joined the TATA Administrative Service (TAS) in 1983. Over the next 17 years, he held several leadership roles within the Tata Group, with his last role being Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Taj Group of Hotels.
Later, he moved to A.T. Kearney Inc., an international management consulting firm, where he worked as an Associate Consultant and Director in the New Delhi office. These experiences gave him a deep understanding of both hospitality operations and business strategy.
Founding of Lemon Tree Hotels
In 2002, Keswani anticipated a growing demand for mid-market and economy hotels in India. With this vision, he founded Lemon Tree Hotels. The brand positioned itself between luxury hotels and budget accommodations, targeting India’s rising middle-class and business travelers.
Today, Lemon Tree Hotels has expanded into one of the largest hotel chains in India.
- As of 2023, the company operates 110+ hotels across 70+ destinations, with more properties in the pipeline.
- The chain owns and manages hotels across different segments, including Lemon Tree Premier, Lemon Tree Hotels, Red Fox Hotels, and Aurika Hotels & Resorts.
On April 9, 2018, Lemon Tree Hotels was listed on both the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).
Commitment to Inclusion and Social Responsibility
A distinctive part of Keswani’s leadership is his emphasis on inclusive employment practices. Lemon Tree Hotels is known for hiring people with disabilities and individuals from socially and economically weaker backgrounds.
- Around 13% of its employees are from such disadvantaged groups.
- The company has received multiple National Awards from the President of India:
- Best Employer of Persons with Disabilities (2011, 2016)
- Role Model in Providing a Barrier-Free Environment to Persons with Disabilities (2012)
Keswani has also served as the Chairman of the Skills Council for Persons with Disability (SCPwD) and has been a member of the Hospitality, Travel and Tourism Sector Skills Council (NSDC), as well as the University Grants Commission and the Board of Governors of IIT Delhi.
Recognition and Awards
Over the years, Patu Keswani has received several honors for his contribution to hospitality and inclusive employment:
- Distinguished Alumni Award, IIT Delhi (2011)
- Distinguished Alumni Award, IIM Calcutta (2012)
- Lifetime Achievement Award, IIHM & IHC (2021)
- Inducted into the FHRAI Hall of Fame (2010)
- Inducted into the Hotelier India Hall of Fame (2012)
- Inducted into the IATO Hall of Fame (2019)
- Featured in the 100 Most Powerful People in Global Hospitality by the International Hospitality Institute (2022)
- Excellence Award (Inclusion/Diversity) by Conde Nast Traveller Readers’ Awards (2018)
In addition, Lemon Tree Hotels was ranked 12th among Asia’s Top Large Workplaces in the Great Place To Work Survey (2018).
Personal Life
Patu Keswani lives in New Delhi. He was married to Sharanita, with whom he has two children – Aditya (son) and Nayana (daughter). Later, he married Heather Lynn Hughes. He is also known to be fond of dogs and has several pets, both in India and abroad.
The Journey Ahead
From a single hotel in 2002 to over 110 properties today, Patu Keswani has built Lemon Tree Hotels into a leading hospitality brand. His approach combines business growth with social responsibility, making the company stand out in the Indian hotel industry.
The future of Lemon Tree Hotels continues to focus on expanding its footprint across India and international markets while staying committed to inclusivity and sustainable growth.
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FAQs
Who is Patu Keswani?
Patu Keswani is the Chairman and Managing Director of Lemon Tree Hotels Ltd., one of India’s largest mid-priced hotel chains. He founded the company in 2002, anticipating the growing demand for affordable yet quality hospitality in India.
What was Patu Keswani’s career before starting Lemon Tree Hotels?
After graduating from IIM Calcutta, Keswani joined the TATA Administrative Service (TAS) in 1983. He spent 17 years at the Tata Group, with his last role being Senior Vice President at Taj Hotels. Later, he worked with A.T. Kearney Inc. as a Director in New Delhi before starting Lemon Tree Hotels.
How big is Lemon Tree Hotels today?
As of 2023, Lemon Tree Hotels operates 110+ hotels across 70+ destinations in India and abroad, with more properties under development. The group also runs multiple brands like Lemon Tree Premier, Red Fox Hotels, and Aurika Hotels & Resorts. The company was listed on the NSE and BSE on April 9, 2018.
What is Patu Keswani’s net worth?
As the promoter of Lemon Tree Hotels, Patu Keswani’s net worth is linked to the company’s market value. His estimated net worth is reported to be in the hundreds of crores (₹), largely through his stake in Lemon Tree Hotels, which is valued in the public markets.
Who is Patu Keswani’s wife?
Patu Keswani was married to Sharanita, with whom he has two children – Aditya and Nayana. He later married Heather Lynn Hughes.
Where does Patu Keswani live?
He resides in New Delhi, India, but often travels due to his business commitments.
