A whole new generation of leaders is redefining the travel industry, blending traditional values with modern innovation. We speak to some of the rising stars about the dynamics, challenges and opportunities faced by this new wave of leaders and understand how they are reshaping their family enterprises.
– Vartik Sethi
With a focus on technology, personalisation, and sustainability, the new age leaders are pioneering novel ways to engage with today’s eco-conscious, tech-savvy traveller. From AI-driven travel solutions to wellness tourism and immersive experiences, these leaders are forging ahead with strategies that blend the best of tradition and forward-thinking innovation.
Background and Motivation
In today’s fast-changing travel industry, a fresh wave of leadership is emerging from family-run businesses. These next-generation leaders are not just inheriting their parents’ legacies—they are reshaping them, infusing new ideas and modern strategies to meet the evolving demands of the global traveller.
With a path shaped by a unique combination of academic curiosity and a love for luxury travel, Ruhani Duggal, Director, Minar Group, recognised a gap in how India’s diverse experiences are perceived globally. In response, she developed Vilasa, a brand that caters to the growing demand for experiential and exclusive travel, positioning her as a leader in redefining luxury travel from India on the world stage.
Dheeraj S. Kandur, Partner, Flight Shop Holidays, brings a fresh perspective to his family’s business. His passion for travel was nurtured from a young age. “Growing up, I spent weekends accompanying my father on work trips, which ignited my curiosity about different cultures and experiences,” he recalled. After gaining experience in the finance sector, Kandur’s love for travel led him back to the family business in 2012. “I realised that my true calling was in creating unforgettable experiences for our clients, combining my business acumen with my passion for travel,” he shared.
Zamir Munshi, Director of Strategy & Growth, N. Chirag, is another leader leveraging his financial background to drive growth. With experience in mergers and acquisitions at UBS in New York, Munshi returned to India with a vision of applying strategic insights to scale the family business. His leadership reflects a broader trend in the travel industry: merging traditional hospitality with strategic, data-driven decision-making.
Similarly, Vansh Arora, Executive Director, Flag Travel Services, brings a strategic corporate perspective to his family’s business. Having honed his skills at Deloitte and UCL, Arora focuses on expanding Flag Travel’s offerings, recognising the potential in niche markets such as corporate travel and MICE. His ability to blend corporate strategy with a passion for exploration exemplifies how the next generation is adapting family businesses to tap into untapped sectors.
Meanwhile, Karan Vakharia, Chief Operating Officer, Pathfinders Holidays, saw his entry into the family business as an opportunity to elevate client experiences. With his marketing expertise and experience at IMG, Vakharia is well-positioned to refine Pathfinders’ offerings, focusing on curating personalised travel experiences.
For Nishant Jain, CEO, Traveldhaam.com, joining the family business was more than just continuing a legacy. Driven by a deep appreciation for his father’s vision, Jain recognised the agility required to thrive in an asset-light, fast-paced travel industry. His focus on connecting with people globally and embracing the inherent vibrancy of travel allows Traveldhaam to stand out in a competitive market.
These future leaders are not just building on the legacies of their predecessors—they are innovating and adapting their businesses to an industry that values customisation, technology integration, and unique experiences. Their individual stories highlight the importance of blending tradition with modernity, and their collective impact will likely shape the future of the travel industry for years to come.
Vision
At N. Chirag, Munshi is focused on delivering deeply personalised and transformative travel experiences. “We want to become the most trusted name in personalised travel,” he explained, sharing his ambition to create journeys that transcend the ordinary. By 2030, Munshi envisions seamlessly integrating high-touch service with cutting-edge technology, crafting intuitive and enriching travel experiences that reflect the evolving desires of modern travellers.
Vakharia at Pathfinders Holidays is taking a different route, combining luxury with technology. He prioritises AI and augmented reality in travel planning while committing to eco-friendly practices. “Sustainable luxury is the future, where indulgence meets environmental responsibility,” he shared. His vision for 2030 positions Pathfinders as a leader in providing unique, luxurious, and sustainable travel experiences that appeal to an increasingly conscious clientele.
Kandur envisions a future where Flight Shop Holidays evolves from a traditional travel agency into a comprehensive travel consultancy. “We aim to leverage our in-depth knowledge of destinations to provide personalised travel solutions that go beyond standard itineraries,” he explained.
At Flag Travel Services, Arora is steering the company toward innovation while maintaining its reputation for high-end, customised itineraries. “Our goal is to blend the efficiency of AI with the human touch that defines luxury,” he noted, outlining plans to streamline services for both leisure and MICE travel. By 2030, Arora expects Flag Travel to stand out for its seamless combination of technology and personalisation.
Jain’s plans for Traveldhaam.com involve aggressive digital expansion and a franchise model that empowers smaller agencies. “We want to provide a seamless, user-friendly experience that resonates with modern travellers,” he explained. By leveraging technology, Jain aims to position the company as a key player in sustainable and personalised travel by 2030.
Meanwhile, Duggal at Minar Group drives diversification, particularly in aviation education, while expanding her luxury brand, Vilasa. “We’re focused on wellness and mindfulness travel, offering unique experiences that cater to a discerning clientele,” she shared. Her vision for 2030 is to lead the charge in creating enriching, transformative travel experiences that redefine luxury and well-being.
Together, these leaders are shaping a new future for family travel businesses, where personalisation, sustainability, and technology will define the industry’s next chapter.
Modernisation and Innovation
Today’s leaders are not just fuelled with young blood but also sought-after visionaries. By blending innovation with the human touch, the new generation is setting the standard for the future of travel.
Arora’s focus is on optimising customer service through AI, with an emphasis on speed and personalisation. Rather than simply adding tech for the sake of it, he is exploring how AI can enhance service delivery. “It’s about offering tailored experiences faster and more efficiently,” he explained, ensuring each client receives a personalised journey.
Innovation for Duggal revolves around AI and virtual reality, adding a modern twist to luxury travel. She is changing how clients plan their trips by leveraging AI for tailored experiences and VR for destination previews. “These tools allow clients to explore before they book,” she noted, giving them a taste of the experience long before they embark.
To stay competitive, Kandur is focused on incorporating new technologies into Flight Shop Holidays. The company has partnered with leading travel tech firms to provide real-time destination updates, ensuring travellers are informed about local conditions and events. “We’ve also implemented comprehensive ERP solutions to streamline operations across all departments—marketing, sales, operations, and finance. This enables us to generate timely quotations and curate exceptional holiday solutions,” he explained.
Vakharia, on the other hand, is blending luxury with technology. His digital dashboard is designed to transform the client experience by offering real-time updates and concierge services. “This tool is all about enhancing the journey,” he shared, though he stressed that, even with these innovations, “keeping a personal touch at the forefront remains essential.”
Meanwhile, Munshi is reshaping his company’s infrastructure by implementing CRM systems, cloud telephony, and an updated online presence. “The rebranding reflects our shift towards a more modern, experiential offering,” he shared, positioning the company as a leader in digital transformation while staying true to its customer-first philosophy.
In Jain’s approach, modernisation means streamlining operations for a smoother customer journey. With a focus on efficiency, he is enhancing client interactions through faster response systems on WhatsApp and digitising the visa process. “We want to make travel planning more intuitive and stress-free,” he explained, making technology a key ally in simplifying traditionally complex steps.
Challenges and Growth
While introducing new technologies and expanding their services globally, these leaders face the challenge of honouring their company’s legacy while pushing for growth. From streamlining operations to fostering social responsibility, they are redefining what it means to lead in the travel sector, blending fresh ideas with time-tested values.
Duggal’s strategy has been to innovate without disrupting Minar Group’s core business. By establishing Vilasa as a distinct brand, she has had the freedom to introduce fresh ideas. “My father’s expertise in risk management has been invaluable in maintaining balance,” she explained. The result has been a seamless blend of innovation and tradition, positioning Minar Group for continued success while keeping the door open to new ideas and markets. She has also driven Minar Group’s growth in luxury and experiential travel, with a key milestone being Vilasa’s recognition as a Serandipians DMC partner. “This achievement in just four years reinforces our commitment to luxury travel,” she shared.
Munshi has approached family business challenges with collaboration in mind. “Respect and communication are crucial,” he noted, explaining how each family member plays a role in distinct areas of the business. By sharing responsibilities, the Munshi family has successfully blended tradition with innovation, allowing the company to evolve without losing sight of its core values. Moreover, Munshi has also been instrumental in expanding N. Chirag into bespoke travel, with safaris and luxury expeditions driving new business. “Our rebranding and tech investments have boosted revenue and solidified our position in the market,” he said.
Manoeuvering the complexities of a family-run business has been a learning curve for Jain. He admits that keeping pace with rapid technological advancements has been challenging. “Onboarding our team and ensuring they are comfortable with new systems has been a hurdle,” he explained. Despite these obstacles, Traveldhaam.com has expanded its digital capabilities, growing from servicing corporate executives to entire companies. Additionally, Jain’s commitment to social responsibility is evident in the launch of Rising Star Khilte Chehre, an NGO empowering over 500 differently-abled individuals to experience travel.
For Vakharia, the challenge lies in balancing innovation with the legacy his parents built. “Honouring tradition while staying relevant is key,” he shared. Managing generational differences has required careful communication and respect. Under his leadership, Pathfinders Holidays has not only attracted a younger, international clientele but also expanded operations to the United States, enhancing the company’s global footprint. Strengthened relationships with suppliers have further improved the client experience.
Arora has focused on decentralising Flag Travel Services and incorporating digital solutions like payment gateways and CRM systems. “The shift was capital-intensive and a lot for my parents to take in,” he noted, but their belief in his vision kept the momentum going. Flexibility in managing generational differences has allowed him to introduce technological advancements without alienating traditional values. Besides, regarding the MICE segment, Arora noted significant growth within the family business. “A breakthrough came with an 800 plus pax MICE movement to Dubai in 2024,” he explained.
Like many second-generation leaders, Kandur has faced challenges in promoting change within the family business. “One of the biggest hurdles has been cultural resistance. Changing long-standing mindsets and convincing team members to embrace new technologies can be difficult,” he shared. However, by focusing on education, clear communication, and demonstrating the tangible benefits of innovation, Kandur has been able to foster a culture of openness and adaptability.
Future Outlook
Next-generation leaders in the travel industry are setting ambitious goals, blending innovation with tradition to stay ahead in a highly competitive market. Vakharia, for instance, is determined to lead in personalised travel, focusing on crafting bespoke journeys that offer much more than the usual holiday experience. “Every trip should be life-enriching,” he explained, highlighting how unique, tailored experiences are becoming critical differentiators in today’s market. Similarly, Jain is steering his business towards complete digitisation and launching a franchise model, recognising the need to focus on niche markets overbroad, generic offerings. “We aim to deliver specialised solutions that build trust,” he noted, emphasising the importance of establishing a clear identity in a crowded industry.
Meanwhile, Duggal has her sights set on pushing the boundaries of luxury travel while maintaining her company’s deeply rooted values. “We set stretch goals every year,” she shared, underlining the balance she strikes between innovation and tradition. The careful blend ensures continued growth without losing sight of the brand’s heritage. On the other hand, Arora is concentrating on expanding the MICE portfolio and integrating digital processes to improve efficiency and response times. By doing so, he is ensuring that his business remains agile and ready to meet the evolving demands of corporate clients. Munshi, too, is focused on the future, positioning his business as a leader in transformative travel by blending data insights with a commitment to exceptional service. “We aim to become the go-to choice for discerning travellers worldwide,” he said, reflecting the growing trend of hyper-personalised, high-end travel experiences that are increasingly sought after in the market.
Kandur’s most ambitious goal for Flight Shop Holidays is to develop a team of travel consultants who can provide tailored guidance and insights. “We want to invest in their development to ensure each consultant embodies our commitment to exceptional service and client satisfaction,” he explained. With travellers increasingly willing to invest in their holidays, Kandur also aims to capitalise on this trend by offering unique, enriching experiences that justify the higher spending. “We aspire to encourage clients to take two long holidays and two short getaways each year, promoting the benefits of regular travel for relaxation and cultural enrichment,” he added.
Collectively, the future of travel combines modern technology with personalised service to carve out distinct niches and redefine the travel experience for their clients.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
While plenty of advice is available online, young entrepreneurs are best served by seeking guidance from those who have walked at least a mile in their shoes.
When asked for advice for young entrepreneurs, Arora took a direct approach: “Stop procrastinating, make decisions, and don’t fear failure,” he said, stressing the need for action and resilience, while recognising the value of blending older generations’ wisdom with modern ideas. Duggal echoed the same sentiment – ‘to carve out one’s own identity is essential’. “Go for it, but remember to carve out your own space beyond the family name,” she shared. Like the others, Munshi emphasised respecting tradition while challenging the status quo. “Challenge the status quo, but with respect for the business’s core values,” he explained, focusing on long-term success and building strong relationships.
Kandur’s advice to young individuals considering joining their family businesses is to be patient and strategic. “Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a thriving family business,” he said. He encourages young leaders to explore new trends, innovate, and leverage technology to stay competitive. “Strategic thinking and collaboration are key to paving the way for your family business to reach new heights,” Kandur added.
Vakharia, with a balanced approach, stressed the importance of respecting tradition while introducing fresh ideas. “Honour the foundation your family built, but don’t be afraid to innovate,” he advised. Jain encourages young entrepreneurs to build on their family’s legacy rather than reinventing the wheel. “The second generation should focus on adding more spokes to the wheel,” he explained, reflecting his belief in evolving within established foundations. With India’s travel market still largely untapped, he sees immense potential. “With over 9.26 crore valid passports, there is a massive chance for the next generation to make an impact,” he added.
Industry Trends and Future Prospects
While honouring the legacy built by previous generations, these leaders are introducing innovative solutions that align with current global trends, ensuring their businesses remain competitive in an increasingly digital and eco-conscious world. Each of these visionaries brings a distinct perspective, driven by a desire to innovate while maintaining the personal touch that family-run enterprises are known for. Whether it is through adopting AI, rethinking how travellers engage with nature, or focusing on mental well-being through travel, they are charting a new course for the future of the industry.
Recognising the growing demand for eco-friendly and wellness tourism, Vakharia envisions introducing “Silent Travel,” offering peaceful, undisturbed experiences. “It would allow people to relax and connect with their surroundings,” he suggested, aligning this trend with travellers’ increasing desire for tranquillity and off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Solo travel and the rise of Gen Z travellers are creating unique opportunities for family businesses, according to Duggal. She envisions a future where holistic wellness trips, guided by positive psychology, take centre stage, offering experiences that nurture both mind and body. Duggal is also excited about micro-adventures—short, thrilling excursions designed to push people out of their comfort zones and provide a fresh take on adventure travel.
Emphasising the need for technological evolution, Arora believes family businesses must adapt to stay competitive. “Traditional systems must evolve; embracing digital media is critical,” he advised. His commitment to sustainable travel is unwavering, seeing it as a key market driver for the environmentally conscious younger generations. Arora is convinced that sustainability will be central to the future of the travel industry, particularly in addressing the demands of eco-aware travellers.
For Munshi, the future of travel lies in hyper-personalisation. “Today’s travellers want journeys that align with their values,” he explained. He advocates for “adaptive travel,” a concept where AI shapes itineraries in real-time, evolving based on travellers’ changing preferences. This innovation would take personalisation to a new level, allowing travel experiences to be more flexible and customised.
Kandur emphasised that technological advancement is the biggest trend family businesses need to pay attention to. “To compete with big online companies, smaller travel businesses must adopt advanced travel tech tools. Only tech can fight tech, and this will enable the industry to grow faster and better,” he explained.
According to Jain, adaptability is the key to success in the ever-changing travel landscape. “The key is to stay proactive and seek new opportunities, especially in this AI-driven era,” he noted. His focus extends to wellness travel, emphasising how personalised, mentally rejuvenating experiences can help businesses connect with today’s travellers. “Just as food nourishes the body, travel rejuvenates the soul,” Jain remarked, highlighting the emotional and psychological benefits that travel can offer.