HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
The Indian Hotels Company Ltd (IHCL) has announced the revival of Mumbai’s iconic Sea Rock Hotel, rebranding it as Taj Bandstand. Construction on the sea-facing Bandra property is expected to commence in the second half of 2025, following final approvals from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and the Airport Authority of India.
“We are awaiting the commencement certificate and AAI’s approval. Everything else is in place. Once these are secured, we plan to begin construction in the latter half of 2025,” said Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director & CEO of IHCL.
Taj Bandstand will join IHCL’s prestigious lineup of luxury hotels in Mumbai, which includes Taj Mahal Palace, Taj Lands End, Taj Santacruz, and Taj The Trees. This will mark the group’s fifth luxury property in the city, adding to its existing inventory of 1,550 rooms across four Taj hotels in Mumbai.
IHCL operates 12 properties across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region under its Taj, Vivanta, SeleQtions, and Ginger brands. Notably, Mumbai currently boasts 75 branded hotels with 15,524 rooms, with upscale and luxury hotels accounting for nearly 71% of the city’s room inventory.
Originally built in 1978 by the Luthria family, Sea Rock was suburban Mumbai’s first five-star hotel and a favored spot for celebrities. ITC operated the hotel from 1986 until it was damaged in the 1993 terror attacks, after which it remained closed due to disputes between its owners and ITC.
In 2005, the property was acquired by Suresh Nanda of the Claridges Hotel for ₹300 crore. IHCL entered the picture in 2009, acquiring an 85% stake from the Nanda family and announcing plans to redevelop the site into a hotel, convention center, and commercial complex. However, progress was delayed by litigation and environmental clearance hurdles. IHCL eventually acquired full ownership in 2020, resolving long-standing issues.
The redevelopment of Sea Rock has faced significant challenges, including legal disputes and regulatory delays. However, with full ownership and rebranding as Taj Bandstand, IHCL is now set to deliver a landmark property that will redefine luxury in the city.
Source: BusinessLine
