We are honored and grateful to Mr. Bhupendra Shrestha and Mrs. Ganga Shrestha for blessing us with their son, Rajan Shrestha, born on 12 September 1968 in Bhaktapur, Nepal. Rajan Shrestha, an illustrious alumnus of the Nepal Academy of Tourism and Hotel Management (NATHM), has carved an indelible mark in the hospitality industry, rising to the esteemed position of General Manager at the prestigious Himalayan Hospitality Group.
A distinguished figure in hospitality management and an exceptional leader, Rajan Shrestha has truly embodied the Nepali proverb "Karma Bhumi Ko Phul" (A flower in the land of duty) through his outstanding achievements. He serves as a testament to the idea that with vision and dedication, the possibilities are limitless. Beginning his career as a management trainee at the Soaltee Crowne Plaza in 1988, Rajan's journey to becoming a prominent industry leader has been marked by perseverance and excellence.
Throughout his illustrious career, Rajan Shrestha has held various significant positions, culminating in his appointment as General Manager in January 2012. Over his 35-year career, he has played a pivotal role in promoting Nepalese hospitality on the global stage, showcasing his expertise in countries such as the United States, Australia, Japan, Germany, and Malaysia. Rajan's contributions to high-profile international events and diplomatic gatherings have been recognized with numerous accolades, including the prestigious Prabal Gorkha Dakshin Bahu from His Majesty King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev in 2001.
Domestically, Rajan's impact has been equally profound. He has actively participated in various television programs and seminars, including the acclaimed "Hospitality Horizons" on Nepal Television, further solidifying his reputation among his peers and the public. Rajan's commitment to continuous learning is evident from his advanced training in Quality Management Systems, HACCP, and leadership development programs, which have equipped him to navigate the complexities of the modern hospitality industry.
A lifetime member and past president of the Hotel Association Nepal (HAN), Rajan Shrestha also serves as an advisor to various hospitality institutions. His advice to the new generation is simple yet profound: "In the hospitality industry, adhere to the principles of Respect, Commitment, and Integrity. These values are the cornerstones of a successful career. I often see these being overlooked by the new generation. In my time, adhering to these values ensured I never missed my goals."
Rajan's general advice is equally insightful: "Value time, opportunities, and relationships; success will follow, no matter the challenges. When I entered the hotel industry, there were no training institutes in Nepal, forcing us to seek education abroad. Now, with reputable institutions like NATHM, we produce skilled professionals locally. It’s disheartening that many of our talents seek opportunities abroad due to the political instability. Nepal is rich in natural resources and tourism potential. I firmly believe that with stability and collective effort, our tourism sector can thrive, negating the need for external solutions. Our political leaders must work together, fostering unity rather than division, to truly realize Nepal's potential."
Rajan Shrestha exemplifies the principle of "Simple living, high thinking." His towering persona is matched only by his humility and dedication to elevating Nepal's hospitality industry. His journey inspires many, showcasing that with dedication, integrity, and vision, one can indeed make a significant difference in the world.