Keshav Suri serves as the Executive Director at The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, one of India’s leading luxury hospitality brands. Known for his progressive vision and entrepreneurial spirit, Keshav has propelled the group’s ascent as a leading hospitality chain while championing the causes of inclusivity and sustainability within the hospitality industry.
His leadership extends beyond business strategy, pushing boundaries for social justice and equality, particularly in his support of LGBTQIA+ rights and the fight for decriminalizing Section 377 in India. As a petitioner himself, he champions the cause of building an inclusive nation, culminating in the establishment of the Keshav Suri Foundation. The Foundation is dedicated to embracing, empowering, and mainstreaming LGBTQIA+ and other marginalized communities. Notably, he has launched the Aditya Nanda Scholarship, providing 5 fully paid scholarships for LGBTQIA+ students to pursue degree and diploma programs in hospitality at The Lalit Suri Hospitality School, redefining the future of hospitality as queer-inclusive. The Foundation is also the official affiliate for the It Gets Better Project in India, thereby contributing to The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group’s global recognition.
With a keen business acumen and an eye for untapped potential, he is celebrated for expanding the group’s portfolio. His visionary leadership has not only diversified offerings but introduced ground-breaking operational ideas, including food and beverage concepts tailored for the sophisticated palate. Notably, his brainchild, Kitty Su—the Group’s nightclub—completed thirteen successful years in August 2024, solidifying its status as one of the longest-running and most inclusive nightclubs in the country. His vision extends to environmental sustainability, advocating for green operations across The Lalit Group, including energy conservation, waste reduction, promoting “vocal for local,” and the use of eco-friendly materials.
He is a distinguished scholar, holding degrees in Law and Business from the University of Warwick, a Master’s Degree in International Management from Kings College, London, and an LLM Degree from the School of African & Oriental Studies (SAOS), London. His global outlook, with an intimate understanding of Indian culture and values, and his innovative approach to hospitality has positioned The Lalit Group as a modern, forward-looking brand that stays connected to its heritage while evolving to meet contemporary expectations.
His unwavering dedication has garnered numerous coveted accolades, including being named a Top 100 LGBT+ Executive for three consecutive times by Yahoo Finance & Outstanding List, the Pioneer Award by IGLTA (International LGBTQ+ Travel Association), Attitude Pride Award, and more than 15 prestigious national honours. These include Change Maker by Hindu Businessline, Culture Icon of NewHood by Mens XP, Agent of Social Change by GQ, and Tycoons of Tomorrow by Forbes India.
A sought-after speaker, Keshav actively engages in public forums, conferences, and events, to passionately advocate for diversity, inclusion, and LGBTQ+ rights. His impact extends far beyond the hospitality industry, establishing him as a compelling force for positive social change.
