Taj Reigns as India's Strongest Brand for the Fifth Straight Year
IHCL’s iconic hospitality brand Taj tops Brand Finance’s ‘India 100 2026’ rankings, reinforcing its legacy of trust, service excellence and global growth.
By SOH Edit Team
Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced that its flagship brand, Taj, has once again been named India’s Strongest Brand across sectors in the Brand Finance ‘India 100 2026’ report. This marks the fifth consecutive year that Taj has secured the top position, underscoring its enduring leadership in the hospitality industry.
According to the report, Taj recorded a 32 per cent increase in brand value to USD 878 million, while achieving a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 93.5 out of 100 and retaining the coveted AAA+ brand strength rating.
A Legacy Built on Trust and Excellence
Commenting on the achievement, Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IHCL, said the recognition reflects the deep trust guests have placed in the brand over more than 120 years. “Being recognised as India’s Strongest Brand across sectors for the fifth consecutive year is a matter of immense pride. For over 120 years, Taj has remained an enduring symbol of Indian hospitality, staying rooted in its timeless values of warmth, authenticity and excellence. This recognition reflects the deep trust and emotional connection that generations of guests have placed in the brand, as well as the unwavering commitment of our associates who bring the spirit of Tajness to life every day through thoughtful service and genuine care.”
Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IHCL.
“Being recognised as India’s Strongest Brand across sectors for the fifth consecutive year is a matter of immense pride. For over 120 years, Taj has remained an enduring symbol of Indian hospitality, staying rooted in its timeless values of warmth, authenticity and excellence. This recognition reflects the deep trust and emotional connection that generations of guests have placed in the brand, as well as the unwavering commitment of our associates who bring the spirit of Tajness to life every day through thoughtful service and genuine care.”
Puneet Chhatwal
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, IHCL
Expanding with Purpose
Founded by Jamsetji Tata in 1903, Taj has played a pioneering role in shaping India’s hospitality and tourism landscape. Today, the brand operates a portfolio of 150 hotels across 15 countries, spanning grand palaces, landmark city hotels, wildlife lodges, beach and hill resorts, and serviced residences.
Chhatwal noted that the brand’s continued expansion is guided by Paathya, IHCL’s ESG+ framework, which integrates environmental stewardship, community development and cultural preservation into its growth strategy. “As a custodian of Indian hospitality, Taj remains committed to creating long-term value while enriching destinations, empowering communities and preserving the heritage and traditions that define its legacy.”
Brand Finance Highlights ‘Tajness’
Brand Finance’s research attributes Taj’s continued leadership to its exceptional levels of consumer familiarity, preference and understanding, with many respondents identifying the brand as their preferred hotel choice. The report also highlights the distinctive hospitality experience—known as ‘Tajness’—as a key differentiator.
David Haigh, Chairman, Brand Finance, said: “Taj Hotels’ position as India’s strongest brand for the fifth consecutive year reflects the strength of its reputation and consistency of its brand performance. Brand Finance’s research shows exceptionally high levels of familiarity, preference, and understanding in its home market, underscoring the value of investing in a distinctive brand experience, maintaining the highest standards of hospitality, and delivering what guests value most. As Taj continues to expand its footprint across India and internationally, preserving these strengths will be key.”
