bahrainthismonth.com | AUGUST 2026 INDIA IN BAHRAIN 47 they remember experiences they can discuss, share and return for. These events also help communities feel recognised, create additional revenue and distinguish hotels within a competitive market. The strongest concepts educate guests while entertaining them. How has the Indian community influenced Bahrain’s hospitality and events sector? Its influence can be seen in multi-day celebrations, expanded Indian menus, live entertainment and ambitious event production. Indian weddings have encouraged hotels to become more flexible and culturally aware, while Diwali, Navratri, corporate events and community gatherings generate business throughout the year. Where do you see the greatest opportunities to strengthen India-Bahrain ties through tourism, hospitality and events? Destination weddings and corporate incentives offer major opportunities. Bahrain is close to India, easy to navigate and equipped to host large celebrations. More roadshows, familiarisation trips, cultural festivals, food events and hospitality training exchanges could deepen these ties. The greatest opportunity is not simply filling rooms. It is making Bahrain a place where Indian families celebrate milestones, companies reward their teams and both cultures create new traditions together. Beyond the Ballroom Tanzil Thakur, Assistant Director of Sales – MICE at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa, discusses Bahrain’s events industry and cross-cultural opportunities. Looking back on your journey in hospitality sales, what experiences have shaped your career and approach to the industry? Hospitality sales is not only about selling rooms or event space. It is about creating experiences, earning trust and building relationships. Roadshows in India and China taught me that buyers do not simply want rates. They want a destination story and the right cultural fit. Some of the best deals have come months, or even years, after the first meeting. That is why I focus on long-term partnerships rather than quick wins. How have you seen Bahrain establish itself as a destination for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions? Bahrain has invested significantly in infrastructure, venues and connectivity. Exhibition World Bahrain can host major international events, while hotels have upgraded their meeting facilities and hybrid capabilities. Bahrain International Airport and the King Fahd Causeway provide easy access for GCC delegates. Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority has also promoted the Kingdom through international roadshows. The combination of modern facilities, cultural attractions, Bahrain International Circuit, luxury resorts and Bahraini hospitality makes the destination attractive for regional and international events. What are event organisers looking for today, and how does The Diplomat Radisson Blu position itself to meet those needs? Organisers expect flexible, hybrid-ready venues, reliable technology, smooth logistics, dietary flexibility and clear value. They also want experiences delegates will remember beyond the meeting room. The hotel offers a central Manama location, multiple meeting spaces, in-house audiovisual support and an experienced banqueting team. We can host anything from a 10-person board meeting to a gala for more than 500 guests. With 366 rooms, restaurants, a spa and leisure facilities, groups can stay, meet and relax under one roof. What inspired bringing The Fake Indian Wedding to Bahrain, and why does it resonate here? People are looking for immersive experiences rather than repetitive themed evenings. Bahrain also has a large Indian and Asian community with a strong connection to wedding traditions. The event is theatrical and interactive. Guests join the baraat and wedding celebrations through music, dancing, food and storytelling. It works because Bahrain understands and appreciates Indian culture. Which key elements of Indian weddings did you prioritise recreating, and why? The aim was to capture the feeling of an Indian wedding rather than reproduce every ritual. The baraat creates energy, Bollywood music encourages participation and colourful décor establishes the atmosphere. Food was equally important. Live counters, chaat stations and regional dishes allow guests to explore, interact and experience Indian hospitality. How do culturally inspired events help hotels create memorable guest experiences? They turn a hotel visit into a story. Guests may find good rooms and service in many places, but
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