Indian Hotels Company Ltd (IHCL) has announced that its flagship hospitality brand Taj has been named India’s strongest brand across all sectors for the fifth consecutive year in the Brand Finance India 100-2026 report, reinforcing its position as one of the country’s most trusted hospitality brands.
According to the report, Taj’s brand value increased 32% to $878 million, while it achieved a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 93.5 out of 100 and retained the coveted AAA+ brand strength rating.
The recognition comes as the iconic hospitality brand continues to expand its footprint in India and overseas while leveraging its legacy of over 120 years of Indian hospitality.
Legacy of trust
IHCL Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Puneet Chhatwal said the recognition reflects the enduring trust that guests have placed in the Taj brand over generations.
“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,” he said.
Chhatwal said the honour also acknowledges the commitment of IHCL employees in delivering the brand’s signature hospitality, popularly known as ‘Tajness’.
He noted that founded by Jamsetji Tata in 1903, Taj has played a pioneering role in shaping India’s tourism landscape and today operates a portfolio of 150 hotels across 15 countries, spanning palaces, city hotels, resorts, wildlife lodges and serviced residences.
Brand value grows
Brand Finance said Taj retained its leadership position on the back of exceptionally high levels of familiarity, consumer preference and brand understanding in its home market.
The consultancy’s market research highlighted Taj’s distinctive hospitality experience and the strong emotional connect consumers associate with the brand.
Brand Finance Chairman David Haigh said Taj’s continued leadership reflects the 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 and maintaining the highest standards of hospitality,” he said.
Expanding global footprint
IHCL, India’s largest hospitality company by market capitalisation, currently has a portfolio of 645 hotels, including 263 properties under development, spread across four continents, 15 countries and more than 300 destinations.
Its brand portfolio includes Taj, Claridges Collection, Brij, Atmantan, SeleQtions, Gateway, Vivanta, Tree of Life and Ginger, catering to luxury, upscale, leisure and budget hospitality segments.