Latest news with #Pichwai
Fashion Value Chain
03-06-2025
- General
- Fashion Value Chain
Bobby Aggarwal Explores Urban Poetics in Denscity Series
Atelier Bobby Aggarwal introduces its third limited edition collection, Denscity – There's a Moon Hanging on My City, a sculptural homage to the layered complexity of Indian urban life. The collection draws from the quiet rhythm within the chaos of cities like Bombay and Calcutta, where dense architectural sprawl meets timeworn elegance. Crafted from found waste wood, black-and-white leather, and brass, the collection uses contrast to evoke drama and stillness. The works—such as the LaLuna coffee table and Walkeshwar Tower cabinet—mirror winding streets, asymmetrical skylines, and the poetic irregularities often seen in Pichwai paintings. Aggarwal reflects on the enduring character of cityscapes that evolve organically: 'There's a quiet nobility in how these spaces endure change—small villages and historic cities alike,' he says. The moon in the collection's title symbolizes serenity amidst visual overload, suggesting an underlying order in urban disarray. Denscity is both a tribute and a critique—a thoughtful interpretation of the imperfect yet intentional forms that shape our lived environments. Its pieces invite a deeper appreciation of urban beauty: chaotic, whimsical, and quietly composed. 'There's a quiet nobility in how these spaces evolve…' – Bobby Aggarwal
News18
25-05-2025
- Business
- News18
No Schengen? No Boundaries: Your Ultimate India And Beyond Getaway Guide
Last Updated: Here's a curated selection of exceptional properties that promise the perfect summer reset, each one offering distinctive experiences, immersive settings, and seamless hospitality. Just because Europe is momentarily off the cards doesn't mean your summer holiday should be. This season, sidestep visa appointments and long-haul fatigue in favour of spontaneous, sun-drenched escapes that do not require the Schengen visa. From the golden dunes of Rajasthan and the lush wilderness of Jim Corbett to the coastal tranquillity of Sri Lanka to the cosmopolitan energy of Dubai, these destinations deliver all the indulgence of a summer abroad, minus the red tape. We have thoughtfully curated a selection of exceptional properties that promise the perfect summer reset, each one offering distinctive experiences, immersive settings, and seamless hospitality. India Udaipur Marriott Hotel Udaipur has added another gem to its crown with the opening of the Udaipur Marriott Hotel—marking the city's first-ever Marriott property. Overlooking Fateh Sagar Lake and set against the Aravalli Hills, the hotel blends regal heritage with modern design. Inspired by Mewar architecture, the property features hand-painted Pichwai motifs, traditional jharokhas, and a stunning chandelier-crowned staircase. The hotel offers 226 rooms and suites with lake or hill views, plush bedding, spa-inspired bathrooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi. advetisement Dining includes Okra, an all-day venue with a live kitchen and alfresco seating; The Greatroom, perfect for coffee or business meetups; Udaipur Baking Co., serving artisanal pastries; and Opal Lounge, offering cocktails in a library-style setting. Guests can unwind at Quan Spa, enjoy rooftop yoga, and explore the lakeside. The hotel also features a fitness center, poolside leisure, and a Kids Club. With 65,000 sq. ft. of event space, including a pillarless ballroom and scenic outdoor venues, the hotel is poised to become a premier choice for weddings and celebrations in Udaipur. Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa The newly opened Jim Corbett Marriott Resort & Spa, nestled on the edge of India's oldest national park. Tucked away in the heart of Uttarakhand's Sal forests and along the banks of the serene Kosi River, the 99-key resort offers a soulful escape into nature without compromising on modern luxuries. Guests are invited to experience the wonders of the wild—be it through thrilling jungle safaris, guided nature walks, or cultural village tours that celebrate the rich heritage of Kumaon. Each room is a blend of refined elegance and thoughtful design, offering panoramic views of the Malani Hills and river landscape from private balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows. The culinary offerings are deeply rooted in the land, with The Corbett Kitchen showcasing local Kumaoni flavours and international fare, while the al fresco Malani Grill provides forest-facing dining under the stars. Sal Bar, inspired by the surrounding woods, is both rustic and refined—perfect for evening conversations over craft cocktails and small plates. The property is designed to be as rejuvenating as it is adventurous. Guests can relax at the Quan Spa with treatments inspired by Ayurvedic principles or take part in wellness-focused experiences such as yoga sessions by the river and immersive cooking classes with local chefs. Families travelling with children can enjoy dedicated entertainment zones like The Jungle and the Kids Club, while fitness lovers can recharge at the fully equipped gym or enjoy downtime by the pool. For those looking to celebrate a special occasion, the resort offers 5068 square metres of event space, including Jim Corbett's largest pillarless ballroom and two sprawling lawns with stunning natural backdrops—ideal for weddings, pre-wedding functions, and offsite retreats. Crowne Plaza Kochi Crowne Plaza Kochi offers a touch of leisure with panoramic views of backwaters. The hotel offers 269 spacious business rooms and suites with excellent views of the backwaters and the city. A variety of authentic culinary outlets, extensive spa and leisure facilities, and high-tech meeting spaces that can accommodate up to 900 people, all within a tranquil waterfront setting, makes Crowne Plaza Kochi the preferred international brand for business, leisure and events. The below mentioned aspects of the property set it apart from others: Advertisement Sohum Spa Sohum Spa is one of the largest hotel spas in Kerala, with a dedicated area of 25,000 sq. ft. The facilities include a beautiful reception with lobby, outdoor relaxation area with a tropical garden and water bodies, private relaxation lounge, consultation room, seven therapy suites of which three are dedicated to Ayurvedic therapies and treatments, three to western and oriental therapies and one is a couples suite with Jacuzzi. Skygrill A rooftop restaurant, Skygrill is known for its unparalleled ambiance and delicious barbecues and grills with an exhaustive menu of beverages. Holiday Inn Resort Goa Holiday Inn Resort located at Mobor Beach, Cavelossim, in South Goa, overlooks the Arabian Sea. This Mediterranean-inspired resort with its direct access to the beach is as enchanting as it is unique. The resort is ideally located for a relaxing and fun filled vacation in Goa. It offers spacious rooms with balconies that open up to majestic views of the Arabian Sea and landscaped gardens. Holiday Inn Resort Goa can be the perfect destination for a monsoon getaway with family if one is looking for the following: Fine Dine Restaurants advetisement Within the luxurious resort, indulge the finest nuances of Indian and international cuisines, including the 24-hour Zest Cafe and Kitchen, which specializes in Indian and Global cuisine. The Beach Grill is the perfect restaurant for those lazy beach sunsets. At The Fig and Olive, one can indulge in Mediterranean Classics, and sundowner lounge, with awe-inspiring views over-looking the pool and gorgeous landscaped gardens, over cocktails. Some romantic private dining options are available as well on demand. Indulge in a relaxing evening Guests can enjoy a relaxing and rejuvenating experience by the pool, or de-stress, and soothe their city-frayed nerves with rejuvenating therapies at the Spa Villa. Created to escape the pressures and stress of the everyday world this tranquil spa setting is perfect to indulge guests' senses and achieve serenity with amenities ranging from massage, sauna, and steam bathing. One can choose from one of many ayurvedic treatments in a traditional environment aesthetically designed. Destination Monsoon Weddings advetisement The resort offers indoor and outdoor venues, including the Ballroom, which is one of the largest pillar-less banquet halls in Goa at 5,068 sq ft with 1,26,000 sq ft of lawns which can be sectioned off as required, absolutely ideal for romantic destination weddings. Six Senses Fort Barwara Nestled in the Aravalli hills of Rajasthan, Six Senses Fort Barwara is a 14th-century fort thoughtfully restored into a luxurious sanctuary of wellness and heritage. Overlooking the sacred Chauth ka Barwara Mandir, the all-suite resort seamlessly blends regal Rajasthani architecture with contemporary design and the brand's deep-rooted commitment to sustainability and holistic living. From tranquil private courtyards and suites with sweeping views to the immersive spa housed within original palace walls, the property offers a serene escape into mindful luxury. This summer, the resort invites guests on a five-night wellness immersion curated to align with the cooling and restorative rhythms of the season. Designed to nurture the body, calm the mind, and awaken the senses, the journey includes a 45-minute Ayurvedic consultation, twice-per-stay Takradhara treatments, Abhyanga massages, a Rasayana detox body wrap, and a deeply rejuvenating facial. Daily rituals feature breathwork, yoga and meditation sessions, labyrinth walks, sound healing with crystal bowls, and the resort's signature Alchemy Bar experience. Guests enjoy daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner at The Cortile, with menus focused on nourishing, seasonal ingredients. A private Aarti at the ancient temple completes the experience, offering a moment of quiet spiritual connection in an extraordinary setting. Ideal for those seeking a complete reset, this retreat is a return to inner balance amidst timeless surroundings. InterContinental Jaipur Tonk Road Nestled in Jaipur's verdant landscape, InterContinental Jaipur Tonk Road is conveniently located near Jaipur International Airport, connected to Delhi Mumbai Expressway, facing Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre. With 218 spacious rooms and 51,000 sq. ft. of banqueting space, the hotel has a timeless beauty and provides magnificent views of the greenbelt. Rejuvenate in the spa, take a dip in the open-air pool or relish the authentic culinary scene in our speciality restaurants. voco Jim Corbett India welcomed its First voco with the opening of voco Jim Corbett, marking IHG Hotels & Resorts' sixth brand debut in the country. Located in the heart of Uttarakhand's Dhikuli region, the property spans 13.5 acres along the Kosi River and offers a peaceful escape surrounded by lush forests and natural beauty. Voco Jim Corbett reflects the brand's signature hallmarks – 'come on in,' 'me time,' and 'voco life' – through relaxed settings that encourage connection and downtime. The resort features thoughtfully designed guest rooms with scenic views, an all-day dining restaurant, and an alfresco eatery overlooking the river. The Tattva spa in the resort presents a range of treatments and therapies that draw inspiration from ancient healing techniques and modern wellness practices. Apart from the Jungle Safari which Jim Corbett is known for, voco also offers mountain drive, taking you through the beautiful landscape of Jim Corbett, allowing you to soak in the nature. River rafting at Kosi River is another key offering at the resort, and it is truly one of the most beautiful ways to enjoy the speedy waters at Corbett. Another exciting way for you to enjoy the scenic views of Jim Corbett is through the hilltop dinner, where you get to indulge in food cooked by the locals of the city, allowing you to enjoy authentic local food. However, if a hilltop dinner does not excite you then you can end your day by indulging in a privately curated BBQ night featuring the freshest ingredients and a private chef at your service. Unwind and enjoy complimentary karaoke, combining delicious food, expertly crafted cocktails, with fun entertainment for a perfect night. Additionally, for those who appreciate the beauty of the night sky, stargazing is one of the resort's must-try experiences. Set in the serene surroundings of Jim Corbett, it offers a peaceful opportunity to observe the stars and constellations, making for a truly magical experience under the open sky. International Thailand InterContinental Phuket Resort Located along the pristine Kamala Beach, InterContinental Phuket Resort is a stunning retreat offering a seamless blend of Thai heritage and contemporary elegance. Set against a backdrop of jungle-covered hills and the Andaman Sea, the resort features luxurious beachfront villas, infinity pools, and the award-winning Sati Spa. The hotel's signature dining experience, Jaras, showcases authentic Thai flavors with a modern twist. Kimpton Kitalay Samui Located on the serene Choeng Mon Beach, Kimpton Kitalay Samui is a luxury oceanfront resort that captures the romantic allure of a traditional fishing village. The resort features 138 rooms, suites, and villas, each offering open-plan layouts with large terraces, many with direct access to swimming pools and sea views. Guests can enjoy multiple pools, five on-property restaurants, daily yoga and fitness classes, and a full-service spa. Sri Lanka Cinnamon Life: The Ultimate Summer Getaway in Colombo Located in the heart of Colombo, Cinnamon Life is South Asia's largest integrated resort and Sri Lanka's most ambitious hospitality and lifestyle venture. Often referred to as the 'City of Dreams," Cinnamon Life is more than a hotel—it is a destination in itself. Conceptualized by internationally acclaimed architect Cecil Balmond, the resort stands as a bold architectural marvel on the Colombo skyline and is home to 687 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites. Guests can indulge in a vibrant gastronomic journey across its 12 eclectic restaurants and bars, unwind at the expansive Kurundu Wellness Spa, or soak in sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and Beira Lake from its striking infinity pool. With over 160,000 square feet of event space, the resort also caters to destination weddings, large-scale corporate events, and intimate celebrations. Its central location makes it ideal for guests looking to explore Colombo's cultural hotspots, contemporary art, shopping, and nightlife—all while returning to a space that defines comfort and world-class hospitality. Tailor-made for the discerning Indian traveller, Cinnamon Life brings together opulence, culinary exploration, and authentic Sri Lankan warmth, making it the perfect choice for a stylish city break or long weekend escape just a short flight away. Malaysia Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City Situated just 27 km from Penang International Airport, Crowne Plaza Penang Straits City is the perfect stay for travelers looking for comfort with a touch of sophistication. Offering modern rooms, meeting spaces, and easy access to George Town, the hotel caters to both business and leisure guests. The rooftop dining experience with views of the skyline makes for an unforgettable evening. Hotel Indigo Kuala Lumpur on the Park Overlooking the picturesque Bukit Nanas and adjacent to the KL Forest Eco Park, the only remaining tropical rainforest in central Kuala Lumpur – Hotel Indigo Kuala Lumpur on the Park offers a unique urban oasis experience. The 180-room hotel seamlessly blends modern amenities with local cultural nuances, providing guests with stylish accommodations and easy access to the city's historic streets. Vietnam InterContinental Grand Ho Tram Overlooking the South China Sea, InterContinental Grand Ho Tram is an expansive retreat featuring elegantly designed suites, a casino, an 18-hole golf course designed by Greg Norman, and multiple dining options. The resort is a perfect fusion of upscale leisure and entertainment, ideal for those looking for a refined yet lively getaway. voco Ma Belle Danang Located just steps away from My Khe Beach, voco Ma Belle Danang offers modern, stylish accommodations with a playful twist. The rooftop infinity pool, spa, and ocean-view rooms make it a favorite among travelers looking for a vibrant yet easygoing beachside stay. Its location provides convenient access to Da Nang's bustling food scene and cultural landmarks. Dubai InterContinental Dubai Marina top videos View All Nestled in the heart of Dubai Marina with unparalleled views across the waterfront, InterContinental Dubai Marina hotel and residences place you minutes from the Jumeirah Beach and the Dubai Tram, which connects you to the city's entertainment precincts. InterContinental Dubai Marina welcomes you to experience a world-class stay with adaptable event spaces, a fitness centre, a luxurious spa, and a captivating pool — making the hotel an ultimate destination. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : Air Travel Bali Travel cnn-news18 Domestic Travel eco-friendly travel foreign travel india travel Indian Travellers latest news lifestyle news18 Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: May 25, 2025, 19:41 IST News lifestyle » travel No Schengen? No Boundaries: Your Ultimate India And Beyond Getaway Guide
The Hindu
15-05-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Bangalore Dastkar Bazaar 2025 will held in the city later this month
Bangalore Dastkar Bazaar 2025 will feature crafts, workshops, cultural events and food. 'They are all aimed at celebrating culture, cuisines and crafts of India,' says Shelly Jain, Senior Director- Programmes Project and Personnel, Dastkar, over a call from Delhi. Dastkar bazaar brings over 160 craft groups from across 25 states of India, with a mix of products, traditions and skills, including third-and fourth generation craftsmen and some award winning artisans. Textiles will include cotton Jamdani, soof, aari, kantha, batik, bandhani, indigo block printing and more. 'We have also always been environmentally conscious, looking at promoting sustainable products, so there will be products made from natural materials like mat, cane, golden grass and sabai grass,' adds Shelly. There will also be crafts in bell metal, leather puppet, lacquer toys, gourd and wood carving, pottery. The folk arts section will feature Pichwai, Pattachitra, Bhil, Gond, Kalighat, Tanjore, and Madhubani Painting, while patrons seeking organic products can look to stalls with millet snacks, essential oils, perfumery, flavoured teas and herbal beauty products. The Purulia Chhau dance, a masked martial arts dance form from Jharkhand, will be presented on the weekend. Dastkar, was established in 1981, focussing on empowering traditional Indian craftspeople and crafts by bridging the gap between traditional rural artisans and contemporary urban consumers. 'We strive to strengthen and support them, act as consultants, trainers, designers, and resource providers to craft groups. We are bringing 20 new craft groups to Bengaluru this year including a lacquer bangle maker, who will demonstrate his work, and an embroidery group from Gujarat.' An added attraction is Karvati saris on tussar, says Shelly. 'This craft from Maharashtra is on the verge of extinction. Craftsmen do not want their children to take to the craft due to livelihood challenges. The entire belt in Maharashtra refuses to encourage their youngsters or even pass on the knowledge of the crafts. We have started new projects with other group to keep the craft from going extinct.' By encouraging designers to works with craft-persons on Karvati, Shelly says the hope is to create something appealing to people. 'With many people choosing not wear saris, the demand has gone down. Those who still wear saris or traditional clothes, the price of handloom is a deterrent.' Crafts-people, Shelley says put in long hours of work to create a fabric. 'They too have a family to feed. Unless we work collectively and create a bridge, these aspects will always pose a challenge. The government should also take concrete steps in bettering these issues.' Modernising tools and techniques and shortening the work process, Shelly believes might be the first steps to reviving the Karvati. 'Designers should collaborate with craftspeople to create modern garments that everyone would want to wear. We need to look at not just sustaining the crafts, but also how we can keep the craft-person's dream of giving their child an education.' Children trained in the family crafts, end up giving up on formal education, Shelly says as they take to the family business at a tender age. 'Despite these challenges, I have noticed a growing interest in funky, modern designs in the crafts. We see this happening more in Delhi, while Bangaloreans veer towards the traditional as they are aware of its heritage. This is one reason why many crafts-people are keen to return to Bengaluru. This city embraces crafts and respects the artisans' works, which boosts the artisan's morale.' The bazaar will include workshops in Madhubani, Gondh and clay modelling for children. 'We also have waste paper craft, which aims at teaching craftsmanship with sustainability. Though we have a free entry, we charge a token amount for the workshops.' Shelly has been with Dastkar for over two decades. Though she had no inclination towards crafts, a chance encounter paved the way for her association with Dastkar. 'I learnt much by interacting with artisans on a daily basis, this made my problems look minimal. Talking to them and hearing about their struggles made me a good listener, and a solution-oriented person.' With a national reach encompassing over 700 craft groups and small producers across 25 Indian states, Shelly says Dastkar achieves its missions through collaborative efforts with governmental, non-governmental, and foreign agencies, serving as an advisor, resource person, and incubator for craft groups.
Hans India
11-05-2025
- General
- Hans India
Creative Strokes – A One-Week (01 May to 07 May 2025) Art Workshop at Sphoorthy Engineering College
Hyderabad: Sphoorthy Engineering College, through its SheInspires initiative, successfully conducted a one-week workshop titled 'Creative Strokes', exclusively designed for the female fraternity of the institution. The workshop aimed to nurture creativity, promote self-expression, and encourage entrepreneurial skills among women through artistic exploration. Held over five days, the workshop featured hands-on training in a variety of art forms including fabric painting, tie & dye, clay jewellery making, canvas painting, and traditional Pichwai art. Participants used Fevicryl-brand painting materials such as acrylics, pastels, metallic paints, 3D liners, and moulding clay, adding professional finesse to their creations. The sessions were led by Ms. Chinni Leela Sravanthi, an accomplished trainer, whose engaging instruction and artistic expertise added immense value to the experience. Secretary Shri S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and Principal Dr. Giridhar Akkula appreciated Women's Chapter Mentor Dr. Gayathri and her team for conceptualizing and executing this creative initiative. They emphasized the importance of such platforms in fostering holistic development and empowering students beyond the classroom.
Khaleej Times
25-04-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Inside India's luxury travel boom: Where heritage meets high-end hospitality
While 2024 held the promise of a tourism boom for India, a destination celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, international tourist arrivals have experienced a slower recovery post-pandemic. But there's one sector of the country's travel market that is booming, the realm of ultra-luxury. Fuelled by a growing number of high-net-worth individuals and aspirational luxury travellers, the global luxury tourism sector is anticipated to grow from $239 billion (Dh877 billion approx.) in 2023, to an estimated $391 billion by 2028, according to McKinsey & Company. And as India's luxury travel market witnesses its share of this unprecedented growth, the nation is increasingly catering to the discerning desires of ultra-high-net-worth holidaymakers who are seeking exclusive, authentic and transformative experiences. 'India's luxury travel landscape is undergoing a beautiful transformation, where heritage meets modernity in the most immersive, meaningful way,' says Abhishek Dadlani, founder of Lushescapes, a UAE-based luxury travel brand. Born and raised in Delhi, Dadlani has dedicated years to building Lushescapes, a company that promises travellers bespoke itineraries and unparalleled access to many of India's hidden treasures. With an intimate understanding of the Indian market, Dadlani believes the country's luxury travel boom is rooted in the transformative moments it offers. 'Today's India doesn't just offer five-star stays, it offers transformative moments in places that feel both grand and grounded. It's no longer just about where you stay, but how you're made to feel. India delivers that in ways that surprise even the most seasoned luxury traveller,' he tells KT Luxe. More than a five-star stay It's a sentiment that's mirrored in the recent unveiling of Arq by The Leela, a collection of ultra-luxury villas at The Leela Palace Udaipur, billed as the ultimate sanctuary for the global elite. Nestled along the tranquil shores of Lake Pichola, Arq elevates travellers' experiences with its hyper-personalised, albeit unoriginally named, 'Palace within a Palace' concept. Spanning tailored programming, it encompasses everything from private culinary journeys with local chefs to Pichwai painting classes or exclusive opportunities to attend prayer rituals at the ancient Shiva temple. 'The launch of Arq at Pichola at The Leela Palace Udaipur represents our vision of reimagining luxury for the most discerning travellers,' said Shweta Jain, chief sales and marketing officer at The Leela. 'This isn't just another destination, it's a continuous ascent into the true essence of luxury, where every detail is designed to be a personal exploration of beauty, creativity, and indulgence.' Travellers aspiring to a stay that is befitting of a modern-day maharaja can find their haven at Ran Baas, The Palace in Patiala, a Relais & Châteaux property housed within a meticulously restored palace that dates to the 18th century. Originally a royal guesthouse within a wing of Qila Mubarak, a sprawling ten-acre complex in Punjab that once housed the royal family, the property fell into disrepair after India's independence. Recently renovated by renowned Indian conservation architect Abha Narain Lambah, celebrated for her work on preserving India's architectural heritage, the hotel boasts many of the palace's original features with a design that integrates intricate wooden carvings, gilded frescoes, marble floors and silk carpets to create a royal retreat where guests are immersed in the splendour of bygone eras. Notably, the hotel holds the distinction of being Punjab's first luxury palace hotel and has rapidly gained popularity as a destination for weddings and discerning travellers seeking authentic Punjabi hospitality. Mastering the art of anticipation This unwavering focus on personalised service is a defining characteristic of several of India's elite accommodations. 'Service needs to be intuitive, as every single guest is unique,' Jaisal Singh, chief executive of Sujan, tells KT Luxe. 'Our ethos has always been to be genuine; our experiences are not contrived, but stem from our family's deep-rooted connection to the landscapes where our properties reside.' Beyond this, affluent travellers are seeking meaningful experiences and connections when they travel, adds Singh. 'People want to experience connection, be that to nature, to a landscape, culture, heritage, and with people.' At Sujan's Jawai Leopard Camp, guests can look forward to expertly guided wildlife safaris that foster a deep connection with Rajasthan's dramatic granite hills and the region's elusive leopard population. Immersive cultural encounters with local Rabari tribesmen offer insights into their traditional way of life, offering travellers a unique human connection. For another luxurious immersion in India's wildlife, the recently opened The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort in Bandhavgarh stands out. Situated adjacent to the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh, the resort is an ideal base for those looking to partkate in a private safari experience to get up close and personal with the Royal Bengal Tiger. The resort's architecture with its opulent communal spaces and sophisticated tented accommodations, thoughtfully reflects the region's rich cultural heritage, and blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings to enhance the sense of connection with the wilderness. Making conscious choices Luxury travel in India is also increasingly intertwined with a sense of responsibility. According to a 2023 report by 83 per cent of global travellers believe sustainable travel is vital. Several of India's most esteemed luxury establishments are championing eco-friendly practices. From the ITC Grand Chola in Chennai, a LEED Platinum-certified hotel utilising renewable energy and striving for net-zero carbon emissions, to Sujan's commitment to conservation across their properties through habitat restoration and community engagement, these examples underscore that luxury and environmental consciousness can coexist harmoniously. 'We are a brand rooted in a legacy of conservation and responsible, conscious travel. Guests who stay with us feel they're part of something meaningful and become invested in our vision. Through our conservation contribution, by simply choosing to stay with us, they know they are making a positive impact in the area,' says Jaisal Singh of Sujan. Celebrating 25 years in Uttarakhand, the luxury wellness retreat Ananda in the Himalayas is reinforcing its commitment to the region by relaunching the Ananda Institute with the Ambuja Foundation. This provides vital hospitality and wellness training to local youth, especially women, creating sustainable career paths. Ananda's deep connection to nature is further highlighted by its new birdwatching activity and efforts to enhance local biodiversity, solidifying India's role in conscious luxury travel. India's luxury travel landscape today transcends extravagance. Instead, it lies in the deeply personal and transformative experiences offered to holidaymakers, from intuitive service to a profound connection to nature, or an unwavering commitment to heritage. For the global elite who are seeking more than just a lavish getaway, India presents a compelling invitation to discover a destination where unparalleled luxury is imbued with genuine soul and lasting significance, and the opportunity to forge memories as rich and vibrant as the subcontinent itself.
