The wait is over, and Mélange 2026, is now underway. The third edition of Mélange opened today at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai, bringing together a wide cross-section of the travel and tourism industry from India and overseas for two days of business, networking and industry engagement. The opening day was marked by the presence of senior dignitaries from the travel trade, industry leaders adding to the significance and international character of the event.
One of the strongest takeaways from Day One was not just the number of visitors, but the quality and duration of engagement on the floor. More than 50,000 exhibitor– buyer leads and interactions were registered during the day, while the average participation time of buyers also increased substantially.
Another encouraging aspect of Mélange 2026 is the breadth and diversity of the exhibitor mix. Alongside established names from across the travel and tourism industry, a strong new generation of companies participated this year, bringing fresh ideas, newer products and di erent perspectives to the floor. It was particularly heartening to see so many first-time participants becoming part of the Mélange family, adding new energy to the event while broadening the range of opportunities available to buyers.
Importantly, the exhibition floor remained active almost until the end of the show, rather than witnessing the usual tapering o . Conversations, meetings and networking continued across the venue till close
Mélange continues to retain its carefully controlled format, with emphasis on relevant buyers, meaningful meetings and a strong B2B environment. Registrations and access remain closely monitored to maintain the quality of participation and ensure value for exhibitors and visitors alike.
Participants welcomed the fact that Mélange oered enough room not only to conduct business comfortably, but also to reconnect with colleagues, meet friends from the trade and spend time within the venue without the pressure of an overcrowded exhibition floor.
The day also included lighter engagement through networking, entertainment, gifts and prizes for participants — adding to the experience without taking away from the event’s business focus. The networking and entertainment programme continues through the event, with the second day expected to see another strong turnout and sustained business interaction.
The concluding day of Mélange 2026, 27 September, also coincides with World Tourism Day. The date holds special significance for the global tourism community, marking the anniversary of the adoption of the Statutes of the World Tourism Organization on 27 September 1970. World Tourism Day has been observed since 1980 as an occasion to recognise tourism’s contribution to economic development, employment, cultural exchange and international understanding. For Mélange, concluding the event on World Tourism Day adds a special dimension.
The Mélange Awards, to be held on 27 September, will recognise companies and individuals who have made important contributions to the growth, development and evolution of the travel and tourism industry. The recognition will span leadership, innovation, achievement and meaningful industry impact across di erent segments of the trade.
With the strong response witnessed on the opening day, Mélange looks forward to another vibrant day tomorrow, with strong visitor footfall, sustained buyer participation and continued business engagement across the floor. Mélange 2026 will conclude with the Mélange Awards, bringing the event to a fitting close on World Tourism Day.
