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Cover Story

Resorts has not only raised the bar for luxury, but has also
contributed significantly to India’s image as a global tourist
destination. Essentially, Oberoi introduced luxury hotels
to India and took Indian hospitality global. As the driving
force behind the Oberoi Group, his visionary leadership has
shaped the landscape of hospitality, setting new standards
for excellence. Under his guidance, the Oberoi brand
became synonymous with impeccable service, attention to
detail, and a commitment to creating extraordinary guest
experiences. We had the privilege of celebrating him and
bestowing upon him the HICSA Lifetime Achievement
award in 2008.”
Thadani said that PRS Oberoi’s eye for detail was
unmatched as was his memory. Recounting an incident,
Thadani said, “I realised this quite early on, during the
pre-opening of the Raj Vilas, Jaipur when I was
invited as his guest to stay. During the morning
rounds, Mr Oberoi pointed out to everyone,
including the young new GM, his son Vikram One of HAI’s most significant milestones is
Oberoi, that the colour of the inside part of a Mr. Oberoi’s Letter to the Hon’ble Prime
canopy did not match the exact shade of the Minister in July 2019 seeking 7 key reforms
other canopies’ colours. Sure enough, he was to energise tourism and hospitality sector as
absolutely correct; he had identified from a a growth engine for achieving USD 5 trillion
distance of 100 metres what the rest of us could economy envisaged for India, which were also
see only when we went under the canopy. During reflected in the Economic Survey presented in
the same visit, I gave him feedback on the bathroom July 2019 and the Union Budget 2019-2020.”
shower; that it made a gurgling sound when the tap was Priya Paul, Chairperson, Apeejay Surrendra Park
turned on. It amazed me when Mr. Oberoi brought up this Hotels Ltd.,another founding member of HAI said, “
long-forgotten detail almost 20 years later, during a conversation Truly a giant of our industry and such a wonderful man! May
we had not long ago, explaining to me how he had resolved the God bless his soul. I have such beautiful memories of him from
problem.” the HAI foundation years.”
“I remember him as one of the finest gentlemen I have had On the other hand, Subrata Roy’s life epitomises a genuine
the privilege of getting to know. He also gave us our first few ‘rags to riches’ narrative, depicting the journey of a person who
assignments at HVS India in consulting and executive search. ascended from modest origins to lead a conglomerate of chit-fund
Engaging in discussions about new opportunities with him was companies that held sway over the non-banking financial sector
always enlightening; each meeting left you enriched in thought in the country for nearly three decades. Roy went on to expand
and knowledge. Mr. Oberoi’s memories will be cherished by one his business across various sectors ranging from finance, housing,
and all for those who interacted with him. He was a mentor to so hospitality, aviation and the media and became a household
many and, as someone mentioned, a professional father to many name.
more. We will miss him. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” said Roy also showcased remarkable entrepreneurial acumen,
Thadani. extending his prowess beyond the financial sector into hospitality.
Expressing his deep sorrow and sadness, Puneet Chhatwal, His foray into this realm demonstrated a strategic vision that
President, HAI and MD & CEO, IHCL said, “Oberoi - A legend, emphasised luxury and customer-centric experiences. His
an icon and one of the greatest that Hospitality sector has seen. enterprise went on to own landmark global properties, including
He will always be remembered by Indian businesses in general New York’s Plaza Hotel and London’s iconic Grosvenor House.
and global hospitality in particular.” Take the example of Sahara Star Hotel in Mumbai, the hotel
“We are saddened by the passing of PRS Oberoi, a visionary stands out due to its remarkable architecture, resembling a
leader who left an indelible mark on the hospitality industry. luxurious and contemporary design. Its distinctive glass facade and
Having worked with him on few projects, I was able to witness impressive structure have set new standards for hotel architecture
his passion for work, creativity, focused approach, and dedication in the country. Roy’s attention to detail is also evident in Sahara
to do better every time. We are extremely grateful for all his Star’s luxurious accommodations, diverse dining options, and
contributions and believe that the legacy he has left behind will overall guest experience.
inspire each one of us to reach greater heights,” said K B Kachru, Comparatively, PRS Oberoi’s contributions in hospitality
Chairman Emeritus and Principal Advisor, South Asia, Radisson revolve around expanding an established legacy, setting high
Hotel Group and Vice President HAI. standards, and furthering innovation in luxury. Roy, while
Speaking on the void created by his passing away, MP renowned primarily for financial services, entered the hospitality
Bezbaruah, Secretary General, HAI, said, “Oberoi was a sector with a focus on innovation and luxury experiences, marking
visionary who transformed the Indian hospitality industry. He his foray with distinct strategies and investments. Both have left
was the pioneering founding member of HAI and piloted it imprints on the hospitality sector, but with different emphasis and
through the formative years. HAI was proud to have his guidance. approaches based on their backgrounds and strengths. n

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