In this landmark year, the Group plans a series of celebrations, and yet resolves to commit the future to these same hallowed traditions, set by the chain’s founder, the late Captain Nair.
It has been pure luxury play. Over the past 40 years, The Leela has evolved into a portfolio of iconic palaces, hotels and resorts – each a reflection of India’s heritage, reimagined for the modern global traveller. As it enters its fifth decade, the brand continues to chart a confident path forward with a growing portfolio of distinctive destinations. This year, as it happens, also marks a significant phase of expansion with the upcoming launch of The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary, The Leela Jaisalmer, and The Leela Luxury Residences in Mumbai – further strengthening its position as a leading player in luxury hospitality.
The celebrations commenced with a simultaneous all-employee town hall across all of The Leela’s properties, a moment of collective pride and reflection. Associates were honoured through a commemorative pinning ceremony, receiving specially designed 40- year insignia, alongside long service awards recognizing individuals who have shaped the brand’s journey over decades. This tribute to its people underscores Leela’s enduring belief that true luxury is, above all, human at heart.
As the year unfolds, The Leela brings its milestone to life through a thoughtfully curated tapestry of cultural and experiential moments, each reflecting the brand’s enduring commitment to craft, culture and evolution. Along with the brand’s expansion in key markets such as Coorg, Mumbai and Jaisalmer, the year will see the introduction of distinctive new expressions – from Arq by The Leela at The Leela Palace New Delhi and The Leela Palace Chennai extending its private membership philosophy, to The Azulian House at The Leela Palace Bengaluru, a refined culinary destination where storytelling and gastronomy converge.
This celebration is further enriched through evocative cultural collaborations, including a commemorative musical album by maestros Amaan and Ayaan Ali Bangash, alongside the launch of The Leela Centre of Excellence, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to nurturing future custodians of hospitality. Guests will be invited to experience specially curated menus that trace The Leela’s four-decade journey, complemented by immersive wellness offerings under Aujasya by The Leela – from curated wellness menus and signature rituals to transformative retreats rooted in balance and renewal. Anchored in purpose and culminating in a landmark charity gala in November, the year unfolds as a celebration not only of legacy, but of a living, evolving philosophy of true Indian luxury.
An Enduring Legacy Holds in Trust, Inspired by the Founder
In conversation with Anuraag Bhatnagar, CEO, Leela Hotels and Palaces
What does it mean to celebrate 40 years? What is this legacy? How is it being carried forward? Are there any tweaks going ahead? How is this adapting to emerging challenges?
Forty years is a moment of perspective. It allows you to step back and understand what has endured, what has evolved and what truly defines the brand.
For The Leela, the legacy is clear. It is a deeply held point of view on true Indian luxury. One that is rooted in our ethos of Atithi Devo Bhava – Guest is God and expressed through a culture of care, grace and attention to detail.
Over time, that idea has taken on a broader meaning. True Indian luxury, for us, is not defined by a single dimension. It is the coming together of service, design, cuisine and culture in a way that feels cohesive and unmistakably Indian. From the way a guest is welcomed, to the way a space is designed, to the way a story is told through food, rituals and experiences.
That coherence has shaped the brand over four decades and continues to guide it today. This legacy has been carried forward through people. Through a service culture that is consistent across hotels, cities and generations. The Leela Dharmas continue to guide that culture, while commitment to excellence ensures that it is sustained with discipline.
What has evolved is the way we express this philosophy. Today, The Leela extends into a more complete ecosystem of experiences. Through Aujasya by The Leela and our approach to holistic wellbeing. Through Tishya by The Leela, our sensory branding initiative. Through our culinary philosophy, our ceremonial rituals, and our engagement with art and culture. And through newer formats such as Arq By The Leela, our members’ only club.
We are also expanding with intent. Our portfolio today spans 15 hotels across India, with a pipeline that will take us to 24 in the coming years. Our presence in Dubai marks the beginning of our global journey.
This growth is taking place at a time when India itself is being viewed differently on the global stage. There is a growing appreciation for Indian craft, culture and perspective. In that context, true Indian luxury reflects a position of confidence. It is rooted in India, yet relevant globally.
The external environment continues to evolve. Guests are more aware, more intentional and more discerning. This is shaping our approach to sustainability, wellness and personalisation. Our focus on mindful luxury, including initiatives such as Leela Ke Phool and responsible sourcing, reflects that shift.
The foundation remains unchanged. The focus is on reinforcing it with greater clarity, ensuring that every expression of the brand continues to reflect the same philosophy with consistency and depth.
How do you wish to celebrate? Apart from parties, any special resolves within and with associates?
We have approached this milestone with a clear intent. This is a year of expression and alignment. Over the coming months, The Leela will be brought to life across multiple dimensions. Through culture and the arts, through culinary experiences, through wellness, through storytelling, and through a series of curated moments across our hotels.
The more meaningful aspect of this celebration sits within the organisation. The Leela has always been shaped by its people. This year gives us an opportunity to recognise that with greater intent. There is a strong focus on our associates. On recognising long-serving team members, on creating platforms that build pride and connection, and on reinforcing what it means to be part of The Leela.
We are also strengthening our investment in people. Programmes such as the Leela Leadership Development Programme, Leela Executive Accelerated Development, The Leela Palace Service continue to build capability and prepare the next generation of leaders.
At the same time, there is a renewed emphasis on our service culture. On how Atithi Devo Bhava – Guest is God is understood and practised today. On how The Leela Dharmas are lived across every level of the organization. And on how commitment to excellence is sustained, consistently. In many ways, this milestone brings the organisation closer to its core.
It is an opportunity to reaffirm who we are, and to ensure that as we grow, we do so with clarity, consistency and a shared sense of purpose.
From new destinations and curated experiences to cultural expressions in music, cuisine and wellness, The Leela unveils a year of meaningful celebrations.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Navin Berry, Editor, CS Conversations, over five decades has edited publications like CityScan, India Debates and Travel Trends Today. He is the founder of SATTE, India’s first inbound tourism mart, biggest in Asia.
Blogs at: https://www.csconversations.in/nb-blogs
