Taj Retains Title of India’s Strongest Brand for Fifth Consecutive Year: Brand Finance
IHCL’s flagship hospitality brand records a 32% rise in brand value to $878 million, earning an AAA+ rating in the Brand Finance India 100 2026 report.
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Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced that its flagship luxury hospitality brand Taj has been named India’s Strongest Brand across sectors for the fifth consecutive year in the Brand Finance India 100 2026 report.
According to the report, Taj’s brand value rose 32% year-on-year to $878 million, while the brand achieved a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 93.5 out of 100 and retained its coveted AAA+ brand strength rating. Brand Finance’s consumer research cited Taj’s high levels of familiarity, trust and its distinctive hospitality philosophy, popularly known as “Tajness”, as key factors behind its continued leadership.
Commenting on the recognition, Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, IHCL, said the achievement reflects the enduring 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,” he said.
Founded by Jamsetji Tata in 1903 with the opening of The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, the Taj brand has grown into a global luxury hospitality chain with 150 hotels across 15 countries. Its portfolio includes grand palaces, heritage hotels, city landmarks, wildlife lodges, beach and hill resorts, and luxury service residences.
Chhatwal added that the brand’s expansion continues to be guided by Paathya, IHCL’s ESG+ framework, which focuses on responsible growth through environmental stewardship, community development and cultural preservation.
David Haigh, Chairman of Brand Finance, said Taj’s consistent performance reflects the strength of its reputation and guest experience.
“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. As Taj continues to expand across India and internationally, preserving these strengths will be key,” he said.
IHCL, India’s largest hospitality company by market capitalisation, currently operates a portfolio of 645 hotels, including 263 properties under development, spanning four continents, 15 countries and over 300 destinations. Its hospitality brands include Taj, Claridges Collection, Brij, Atmantan, SeleQtions, Gateway, Vivanta, Tree of Life and Ginger.
Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced that its flagship luxury hospitality brand Taj has been named India’s Strongest Brand across sectors for the fifth consecutive year in the Brand Finance India 100 2026 report.
According to the report, Taj’s brand value rose 32% year-on-year to $878 million, while the brand achieved a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 93.5 out of 100 and retained its coveted AAA+ brand strength rating. Brand Finance’s consumer research cited Taj’s high levels of familiarity, trust and its distinctive hospitality philosophy, popularly known as “Tajness”, as key factors behind its continued leadership.
