Leading with pride: How The Lalit Suri Group is redefining inclusivity in corporate India

Corporate India is slowly but steadily evolving into a more inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ individuals, and leading this transformation is The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group. At the helm is Keshav Suri, its Executive Director, whose efforts have helped redefine hospitality by making inclusion and diversity central to workplace culture.

“Since the decriminalisation of Section 377, there has been a notable rise in awareness and action among corporate houses in Delhi. Many organisations have initiated meaningful conversations, implemented supportive policies, and invested in LGBTQIA+ inclusion,” Suri told Patriot in an interview.

While acknowledging the progress, Suri cautioned against complacency. “Delhi has the potential to lead this change, but we need more allies to take concrete steps, going beyond dialogue to create a lasting impact,” he said.

The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group was recently named one of India’s Top 10 Employers for LGBTQIA+ inclusion at the India Workplace Equality Index (IWEI) 2024 Summit in Bangalore, a prestigious recognition of its sustained efforts to foster diversity and equity in the workplace.

“Being recognised once again among the Top 10 Employers at the India Workplace Equality Index is both an honour and a testament to our unwavering commitment to an inclusive, equitable, and welcoming workplace,” Suri said. “For my team, it is a celebration of their dedication in making diversity and inclusion not only transform lives but also set a benchmark in the industry.”

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Pioneering initiatives

The accolade is a result of years of trailblazing initiatives that have positioned the group as a leader in workplace equality. “Our journey began with Kitty Su in 2011, a space where the queer community found acceptance and celebration,” Suri shared. This was followed by several impactful measures, including the Pure Love campaign, health policies covering same-sex partners and gender affirmation surgeries, and the Emerging Queer Leaders in Hospitality programme.

The group’s actions go beyond policies. “We actively support pride marches across the country and provide mental health resources. Our inclusive locker rooms and capacity-building efforts ensure every team member feels seen and empowered,” Suri added. “This recognition is not about optics; it is about driving a movement that redefines hospitality as a celebration of humanity.”

Despite notable strides, Suri stressed that challenges persist for the LGBTQIA+ community. “Marriage equality remains out of reach, conversion therapy continues in some places, and access to queer-affirmative mental health care is inadequate,” he said. Suri also pointed to the lack of accurate representation in the national census, which undermines the creation of inclusive policies. “Without safe spaces, comprehensive anti-discrimination laws, and equitable legal rights, the LGBTQIA+ community is forced to focus on survival rather than thriving.”

A personal mission

For Suri, creating an inclusive workplace is more than just a professional achievement— it is a deeply personal cause. “It was driven by the realisation that acceptance begins with action. It was not easy—we faced scepticism, resistance to policy changes, and the inertia of tradition,” he said. “However, every challenge was an opportunity to innovate. Hospitality is about welcoming everyone, and we were determined to extend that ethos to our workplaces.”

Suri also shared a roadmap for organisations aiming to improve their LGBTQIA+ inclusion efforts. “The first step is to listen with empathy and an open mind. Understand the challenges faced by your LGBTQIA+ team members before you act,” he said. “Avoid tokenism; instead, implement robust policies, provide sensitisation training, offer genuine support, and lead by example. Inclusion starts at the top—if leadership does not prioritise it, neither will the organisation.”

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A commitment to the future

The recognition at IWEI has further energised The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group’s efforts. “We are expanding mentorship programmes for queer professionals, increasing scholarships for marginalised communities, and exploring industry-wide sensitisation initiatives,” Suri said. “It is a reminder that while we have achieved much, the journey towards true inclusion is ongoing, and we are committed to staying at the forefront of this movement.”

Through a blend of personal resolve and organisational vision, Keshav Suri and The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group are setting a benchmark for inclusivity in corporate India. Their story is a testament to the power of leadership in driving meaningful change.