By Srinivas Iyer
Celebrated journalist and Editor-in-Chief of Mumbai Messenger newspaper, Mewati Sitaram, was honoured by Maharashtra’s Tourism Minister, Shri Shambhuraj Desai, during the launch event of the coffee table book ‘The Legends of IHM Mumbai – 70 Years, 70+ Stories’ at the iconic Taj Mahal Hotel on Tuesday.
A stalwart in the field of hospitality, travel, tourism, and diplomatic reporting, Sitaram has built a distinguished career spanning over three decades. Widely respected for his insightful journalism, he has been a regular contributor to the discourse around global tourism and hospitality trends.
Dr. Nisheeth Srivastav, Principal of IHM Mumbai, also lauded Mewati Sitaram’s exceptional contribution to the field of tourism journalism, highlighting the journalist’s enduring influence on both the industry and the media. “Mewati Sitaram has played a vital role in shaping public understanding of the hospitality sector through his incisive and impactful reporting. For over three decades, he has consistently spotlighted the growth, challenges, and innovations within the global tourism landscape. His dedication to responsible journalism, especially in the realms of hospitality and travel, has not only informed readers but also inspired professionals, students, and fellow writers to engage deeply with the industry,” Srivastav said.
He further emphasized that Sitaram’s body of work aligns closely with the values IHM Mumbai strives to instill in its students—integrity, global awareness, and a commitment to excellence. “His contributions have helped elevate the perception of tourism journalism as a serious and influential domain. Honouring him today is not just a recognition of his career, but a tribute to the power of the written word in shaping industries,” he added.
Sitaram’s contribution to tourism writing has earned him a series of accolades from both domestic and international organisations. In 2024, he received the prestigious China Central Television (CCTV) Award in Beijing, becoming one of the few Indian journalists to be honoured by China’s largest news network. He has also been the recipient of the Indian Culinary Forum (ICF) Award, the Hotel Purchasing Managers’ Forum (HPMF) Award, and has been felicitated by the Embassy of Ethiopia for his outstanding travel reportage.
Over the years, he has been recognised by several international tourism boards including Tourism Malaysia, Tourism Thailand, Tourism Spain, Tourism Sri Lanka, and Tourism Switzerland for his extensive coverage promoting global destinations. In addition, the Consulate General of China in Mumbai awarded him for his excellence in cross-border journalism.
A known face in diplomatic circles and international media forums, Sitaram is also on the editorial panel of China Daily and a contributor to Global Times, both leading Chinese publications. He is frequently invited by global media networks for expert commentary and live television debates on tourism and international relations.
Speaking on his felicitation, Mewati Sitaram, Editor-in-Chief of Mumbai Messenger, shared his heartfelt appreciation with a touch of characteristic wit. “Being acknowledged in the presence of such remarkable individuals is truly humbling—and slightly intimidating! I’m just glad they didn’t ask me to cook. I’m grateful to be part of a journey that celebrates not just hospitality, but the people and stories that give it life. Journalism has given me a front-row seat to witness excellence, passion, and perseverance across industries—and today is a reminder of how powerful stories can be when they’re rooted in legacy.”
With a career built on integrity, global perspective, and a passion for storytelling, Mewati Sitaram continues to serve as an inspiration to the next generation of journalists in the fields of hospitality and tourism.
