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28 July 2026HPMF Launches Chairman's Legacy Series to Honour Mohan Deshpande on 75th Birthday

The Hospitality Purchasing Managers' Forum (HPMF) has announced the launch of the HPMF Chairman's Legacy Series to mark the 75th birthday of its Chairman, Mohan Deshpande. The initiative has been established as a permanent institutional programme to recognise Deshpande's exceptional contribution to the hospitality industry and his enduring legacy of leadership, integrity, mentorship and service.

Deshpande has been an integral part of HPMF's journey, providing visionary leadership, strategic guidance and unwavering support in shaping the Forum into one of India's most respected professional hospitality organisations. His commitment to nurturing talent and promoting professional excellence has positively influenced hospitality professionals across the country.

The Chairman's Legacy Series has been conceived as a long-term platform dedicated to leadership development, professional recognition, education and sustainability within the hospitality fraternity. As part of the initiative, HPMF will progressively introduce several flagship programmes, including the Chairman Mohan Deshpande Leadership & Excellence Award, an annual national honour recognising excellence, ethical conduct and leadership in hospitality procurement and supply chain management.

The initiative will also feature the Chairman Mohan Deshpande Mentorship Programme, designed to connect experienced hospitality leaders with emerging professionals, and the Chairman Mohan Deshpande Scholarship for Hospitality Students, which aims to support deserving hospitality management students. Another key component will be the Chairman Mohan Deshpande Annual Leadership Lecture, where distinguished national and international hospitality leaders will share knowledge and inspire the next generation of professionals. Reinforcing HPMF's commitment to environmental responsibility, the Legacy Series will also include the 75 Trees for 75 Years sustainability initiative.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Nitin Shankar Nagrale, Founder and General Secretary of HPMF, described the launch as a historic milestone for the organisation. He said the initiative is not merely a celebration of Deshpande's 75th birthday but a lasting legacy that will preserve the values of integrity, humility and service while inspiring future generations of hospitality professionals. He also acknowledged Deshpande's role as a mentor and guiding force whose contribution to HPMF and the hospitality fraternity continues to shape the industry.

The inaugural roadmap and future programmes under the Chairman's Legacy Series will be formally unveiled during the HPMF Convention & Awards 2027, scheduled to be held from 28 to 31 January 2027 at The Leela Gandhinagar. Through this landmark initiative, HPMF aims to create a lasting platform that celebrates leadership, encourages professional excellence, supports education and sustainability, and ensures that Mohan Deshpande's vision continues to inspire the hospitality community for generations to come.