DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Whitefield and Kalyani Developers Unite for Inclusions at the Walkathon- Abilities Recruitment March During Travel With Purpose Week

Bengaluru, October 1st, 2025: As part of Hilton’s global Travel With Purpose (TWP) Week, DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Whitefield, in partnership with Kalyani Developers, proudly joins hands as the Hospitality Partner for the Walkathon – Abilities Recruitment March held at Kalyani Tech Park. The event stood as a resounding celebration of inclusivity, accessibility, and the empowerment of specially-abled individuals, echoing Hilton’s unwavering commitment to building a more equitable and compassionate world.

Held under the inspiring theme “Walk for Inclusion and Empowerment of Specially – Abled Associates,” the walkathon witnessed overwhelming participation from industry leaders, Rotary clubs, NGOs, and supporters of the diversity and inclusion movement.

A Morning Steeped in Purpose

The Walkathon offered an evocative and enriching programme:

A symbolic Walk for Inclusion & Empowerment, spotlighting specially-abled talent
Networking and community stalls that fostered collaborations for inclusive hiring and support
An immersive ‘Walk in My Shoes’ experience, inviting participants to engage empathetically with the lived realities of diverse abilities
Special appearance by star runners, dignitaries, and Mr. Dhanush Manjunath, Guinness World Record holder and Brand Ambassador, on his mission to cycle from India to the UK
The event was graced by Mr. Sri Das Suryavanshi, a stalwart in the disability rights movement with over 35 years of dedicated service. He is renowned for pioneering the first Kannada Braille Calendar, making the Kannada Braille Bible accessible, and establishing Bidar’s first school for the blind. As former State Commissioner for Disabilities, he led transformative initiatives including the historic inclusion of 6,811 persons with disabilities in local governance across Karnataka.
Following the walk, participants were welcomed with a thoughtfully curated inclusive breakfast experience by DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Whitefield, showcasing Hilton’s signature hospitality and culture of care.

Leadership Reflections and Purpose – Driven Partnership

Speaking on the success of the initiative, Mr Shyam Kumar, General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Whitefield, shared :

“This event was not merely a gathering—it was a collective affirmation of our shared humanity. As a member of Hilton’s Asia Pacific Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council and Abilities TMRG Champion, I take immense pride in seeing our purpose come alive through such meaningful action. At Hilton, we believe in hospitality that transcends transactions—it’s about belonging, connection, and dignity. We extend our deepest gratitude to Kalyani Developers for their unwavering commitment and for consistently supporting our inclusive initiatives.”

This Walkathon stands as a testament to the long-standing alliance between DoubleTree by Hilton Bengaluru Whitefield and Kalyani Developers, who have consistently demonstrated a shared ethos of purpose-driven progress and a deep-rooted belief in creating spaces where all individuals are empowered to thrive.

A special recognition goes to Ms. Priyanka Raju, Managing Director of Kalyani Developers, for her unwavering support and proactive involvement in making the event a success. Her belief in the value of such initiatives and commitment to excellence have been truly motivating.

“It was inspiring to see so many people come together in solidarity,” Priyanka said. “This event wasn’t just about walking, it was about moving forward together with empathy, awareness, and action.”

Travel With Purpose: A Global Commitment to Local Impact

Hilton’s presence at the Walkathon exemplifies its steadfast dedication to the Travel With Purpose 2030 Goals, which include doubling investment in inclusive growth and removing systemic barriers to opportunity. As a globally recognised Great Place to Work, Hilton continues to lead the hospitality industry in advancing equity, championing underrepresented voices, and embedding purpose into every facet of its business.

This impactful event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Rotary Bangalore IT Corridor, Rotary Bangalore Abilities, and an ecosystem of community partners united by a singular purpose—to build a world that works better for everyone.