HackCelestial 3.0 is a high-energy, 24-hour innovation sprint organized by Pillai University, Navi Mumbai. It brings together talented student developers, designers, and problem-solvers to tackle real-world challenges in the hospitality and travel sector. Participants are challenged to design and develop impactful solutions using Generative AI and core software development skills. Through intense collaboration, rapid prototyping, and creative thinking, teams compete to solve specific problem statements while pushing the boundaries of technology and innovation. Whether you're here to learn, build, or lead, HackCelestial offers the perfect platform to code, collaborate, and create something extraordinary.
Event Details:
- Date: 26–27 September 2026
- Duration: 2 Days
- Team Size: 1–5 members per team
- Mode: Offline (on-campus)
- Registration: Round 1 (Idea Submission) is FREE; shortlisted teams pay ₹1,500 per team for the final round.
- Prize Pool: ₹1,50,000
Theme: Hospitality & Travel
This edition focuses on reimagining travel and hospitality. Participants are invited to build innovative solutions across several exciting areas:
- Smart Travel & Personalization: AI-powered trip planning, personalized itineraries, intelligent travel assistants.
- Hospitality & Guest Experience: Seamless check-ins, personalized services, and enhanced guest engagement.
- Sustainable & Responsible Tourism: Eco-friendly travel, waste reduction, resource efficiency, and sustainable destination growth.
- Accessible & Inclusive Travel: Solutions for travelers with different needs, ensuring no one is left behind.
- Local Experiences & Cultural Discovery: Connecting travelers with local communities, businesses, food, and culture.
- Travel Safety & Convenience: Improving navigation, safety, communication, crowd management, and emergency assistance.
Why Participate?
- Real-world problem solving
- Networking opportunities with peers and mentors
- Mentor guidance throughout the hackathon
- Jamming sessions and collaborative coding
- Exciting goodies and exclusive perks for girl participants
- Internship opportunities for top performers
- Participation and winner certificates
Prizes & Recognition:
- Top 3 teams receive cash prizes from the ₹1.5 Lakh prize pool.
- Top 5 teams receive additional goodies.
- Special awards for Excellence in AI Application and Excellence in User Interface Design.
Facilities Provided:
- Free accommodation on campus
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Rules & Guidelines:
- Teams of 1–5 members; cross-college teams allowed.
- Each team submits one original solution developed during the hackathon.
- Plagiarism or replication without significant modification leads to disqualification.
- Submissions via Unstop or Google Form; deadlines strictly enforced.
- A working prototype or simulation is mandatory for finals.
- Judges' decisions are final; technical clarifications may be requested.
- Internship opportunities are subject to performance and interview rounds.
- All members must bring their own devices and stay on campus for the full duration.
- Professionalism and discipline expected at all times.
Registration Deadline: 27 September 2026
This hackathon is an excellent opportunity for student developers, designers, and innovators to showcase their skills, collaborate with like-minded peers, and contribute to the future of travel and hospitality technology.