Hyderabad : The Tourism Committee of the Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI) expresses profound sorrow over the passing away of Hugh Gantzer, Padma Shri awardee and one of India’s most renowned and respected pioneers of travel and tourism writing.
TG Srikanth and Harikishan Valmiki, Advisors, FTCCI; Prakash Ammanabolu, Chairperson, FTCCI; and D. Ramchandram, Co-Chairperson of the Tourism Committee, FTCCI, have conveyed their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, friends, and the wider tourism and literary fraternity.
Recalling his unparalleled contribution, TG Srikanth, Advisor, FTCCI, said, ‘Hugh Gantzer was a visionary who transformed travel writing into an instrument of cultural understanding and tourism development. His work went far beyond destinations—it captured the soul of places and the people who shaped them’
Harikishan Valmiki, Advisor, FTCCI, observed, ‘His writings inspired generations to explore India with curiosity, respect, and responsibility. Hugh Gantzer’s legacy will continue to guide tourism professionals, writers, and policymakers alike’.
As Chairperson of FTCCI, Prakash Ammanabolu stated, ‘The Indian tourism industry has lost a stalwart whose words helped position India on the global tourism map. His contributions through books, documentaries, and columns played a critical role in promoting destination awareness and sustainable tourism thinking.’
Highlighting his enduring influence and personal impact, D. Ramchandram, Co-Chairperson, Tourism Committee, FTCCI, recalled, ‘One of Hugh Gantzer’s most widely remembered observations, which I distinctly recall reading in my younger years, was his remark: ‘If someone asked me to point to the most beautiful country in the world, I would point to India with all ten fingers.’ This line perfectly captured his deep love for India and its diversity. In fact, we had recently reached out to him to invite him to address a seminar at FTCCI, a testament to the continued relevance of his voice and experience even in his later years.’
Hugh Gantzer shared a special connection with Hyderabad and the Deccan region, frequently highlighting its layered history, architectural heritage, composite culture, and tourism potential in his writings. His narratives contributed to strengthening Hyderabad’s identity as a destination of heritage, hospitality, and evolving tourism excellence.
Over a career spanning more than five decades, Hugh Gantzer authored over 30 books, produced numerous travel documentaries, and wrote extensively for leading English newspapers. Along with his late wife Colleen Gantzer, he received several national and international honours, including the National Tourism Lifetime Achievement Award and commendation from the Prime Minister’s Office for their pioneering contributions to travel writing.
FTCCI joins the nation in mourning the loss of an iconic travel writer whose passion for India and commitment to tourism storytelling will continue to inspire generations.
