Amit Kumar: Shaping La Marvella's Event Excellence and Drawing Inspiration from Leaders

Admin

Published on December 8, 2023

In an exclusive interview with Hospitality News, Mr. Amit Kumar, General Manager at La Marvella, Bengaluru, shared his extensive experience in managing events and offered insights into his inspirations in the hospitality field. When asked about his experience in managing large-scale events at La Marvella, Mr. Kumar detailed:

"Let me shed light on La Marvella, starting with the story behind its name. 'La Marvella' is derived from the Spanish word 'maravilloso,' which translates to marvelous. This name isn't just a label; it embodies a rich history and significance. Every aspect of our hotel, including our banquet halls, carries unique names, each with a distinct meaning that complements the ambience. For instance, we have the 'Colosseum' banquet hall, a name reminiscent of an amphitheater. It offers a generous 3,800 sq. ft. of space and can comfortably accommodate up to 250 people in a theater-style arrangement, or up to 450 people in a floating crowd setup. Then there's 'Leroi,' a name of Spanish origin associated with opulence and grandeur. Leroi exudes a rich ambiance, making it a favorite among our patrons. This spacious hall covers an area of 4,200 sq. ft., suitable for various events, from anniversaries and corporate functions to award ceremonies, dealers' meetings, and cocktail dinners. Our 'Vista' banquet hall, which means picturesque, spans 2,200 sq. ft. The hall offers a scenic view, especially in the evenings, providing a visually pleasing backdrop for your events. 'Aurum,' another banquet hall, covers 1,600 sq. ft. It can comfortably accommodate 35 to 40 people in a cluster-style setup and 70 to 80 people in a theater-style arrangement. For a touch of outdoor charm, we have 'Sky Marvella.' This open area offers flexibility in decor and is perfect for events such as Haldi, Mehndi, and social gatherings. The evening atmosphere with its picturesque landscaping creates a beautiful backdrop. Our dedicated event manager collaborates with prospective clients to understand their unique requirements, curate personalized menus, and assist with event organization and decor, including theme selection. But our offerings go beyond events. La Marvella boasts 102 rooms, each exquisitely designed. These include executive, club, and suite categories. Among these, we have 20 premium suites and 9 club rooms. The spacious rooms range from 330 sq. ft. for our executive base category rooms to 500 sq. ft. for our club rooms and 650 sq. ft. for the executive suites. Our rooms feature plush 10-inch mattresses, top-quality imported linens with a thread count of 650, and upscale fixtures. You'll find acrylic bathtubs in our rooms, complete with chandeliers. The shower area is equipped with luxury bath fittings, including a showerhead and three additional nozzles. The wooden flooring in the rooms is made of acacia wood. Our guest rooms are not just rooms; they are smart guest rooms. Automation allows you to control window drapes, air conditioning, lights, and even unlock doors from your bed. High-speed internet connectivity is a priority, with dedicated routers for each room to ensure a seamless, high-speed experience during your stay. Additionally, our guest services include a rooftop swimming pool, a 3,500 sq. ft. spa with three therapy rooms and a couple's therapy room, and a well-equipped gym for fitness enthusiasts. La Marvella's strategic location in Jayanagar, adjacent to the metro station, puts us in proximity to educational institutions like Surana College, IIM, Dayanand College, and prominent hospitals like Apollo and Fortis. We've been a South Bangalore landmark for 14 years, making us the preferred choice for VIP moments, accommodating out-of-town guests, hosting events, and providing a top-notch dining experience. La Marvella truly lives up to its name - the marvelous choice in South Bangalore."

Regarding his inspirations in the hospitality field, Mr. Kumar shared:

"I have been managing this hotel for the last 8 years, and the current inspirations come from the owner himself, Mr. Adhi Bhaskar. This hotel was his first, and he possesses a profound passion for the product, services, and guests. Recently, I read a book by David Abstein about generalist and specialist people. It highlighted that the Titanic, built by specialists, sank, while the ark, built by amateurs, didn't. This example inspires me, showing that success can come from diverse perspectives. Mr. Bhaskar, the owner, shares similar dedication, akin to Captain Nair of Leela Hotel, who personally oversaw every detail. During the challenging time of COVID-19, a real litmus test for our industry, Mr. Bhaskar demonstrated his foresight. While many in the industry were uncertain, he was clear that recovery would take time. Despite the industry's trend of shutting down or laying off staff, he retained our team, ensuring they received their salaries. This decision has kept our talented manpower intact, and we are grateful for his commitment during those difficult times. This support extended not only to our personnel but also to the comprehensive maintenance of the property. Many tasks that would have been impossible during regular operations were executed during the shutdown, leaving us well-prepared to serve our guests and the market as soon as conditions improved. Another invaluable mentor has been Mr. Mohammad Shoeb, my first front office manager. His consistent guidance emphasized the importance of maintaining composure, patience, and the pursuit of learning in this industry. Learning the art of keeping calm and continuously seeking new knowledge has been a lasting lesson from him. He shared wisdom that one must survive before they can fight, a piece of advice that underscores the need for perseverance during the ups and downs of one's career. Moreover, the wisdom of other esteemed colleagues like Mr. Pankaj Gupta, Mr. Tarun Kumar Maity, and Mr. Navin Kaul, who are veterans in the industry, has been instrumental. They generously shared their extensive experiences, offering guidance and insights on how to navigate different situations. Exploring various departments and investing substantial hours in understanding processes has been integral to my growth. Collectively, these experiences have molded me into the professional I am today."

This enlightening conversation with Mr. Amit Kumar offered a fascinating look into the intricate operations and the leadership ethos at La Marvella. For a more in-depth exploration of these insights, viewers can watch the complete interview on the Hospitality News YouTube channel.

The full details of this engaging discussion are also available in the December issue of Hospitality News, accessible through our website.


Chef Vijay Pandey Talks Technology, Tradition, and the Future of Food Delivery

Chef Vijay Pandey Talks Technology, Tradition, and the Future of Food Delivery

Vijay Pandey

Published on May 1, 2025

Chef Vijay Pandey is not your typical chef. With roots in five-star hospitality and global culinary experiences, he now helms the kitchen innovation at Rebel Foods, India’s leading cloud kitchen network. As the Corporate Chef, he is the creative force behind multi-brand strategies that serve millions of customers every month.

“Each phase of my journey—luxury hotels, cruise liners, flight kitchens—taught me the value of precision, consistency, and authenticity,” shares Chef Vijay. These diverse experiences have equipped him to lead in the fast-paced world of food tech. At Rebel Foods, his mission is clear: deliver restaurant-quality meals at scale, without losing flavor or soul.

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With a portfolio that spans everything from Indian classics to international flavors, Chef Vijay ensures every brand under Rebel Foods retains its unique identity. “Every dish goes through rigorous R&D, pilot tests, and customer feedback loops. That’s how we maintain authenticity while pushing culinary boundaries,” he explains.

His global exposure has played a key role in shaping today's menus. He’s excited by the rise of fusion cuisine and personalized dining. “Consumers now crave stories on their plate—Korean burgers with Indian spices, or Mediterranean flavors with local ingredients. We’re here to make that happen,” he says.

Behind the scenes, it's a blend of tech and taste. AI-powered tools help optimize recipes and predict trends, but the heart of innovation still lies with the chefs. “Technology brings scale and efficiency, but it’s the human touch that brings flavor and emotion,” he adds.

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When it comes to delivery, every element is engineered—from packaging to plating—to ensure meals retain their restaurant appeal. “Recipe engineering and constant feedback are key,” he explains, adding that real-time data from over 350 kitchens help maintain quality at every touchpoint.

A strong advocate for wellness and mindful eating, Chef Vijay brings his passion for yoga into the culinary world. “We prioritize clean ingredients, sustainable sourcing, and balanced meals. Good food should nourish the body and the spirit,” he says.

From pioneering Lebanese menus at Manchester United Café Bar to building Faasos’ iconic burger wraps, Chef Vijay’s journey reflects creativity grounded in operational expertise. But perhaps his proudest achievement is shaping the future of food delivery in India—one bold flavor at a time.

Hungry for more insights from India’s top culinary leaders? Stay tuned to HospitalityNews by GuestVento for inspiring stories, industry innovations, and behind-the-kitchen moments that shape the future of food. Visit our website to read the full May edition, and direct message us for physical copies.


Redefining Travel: Exclusive Insights with Jyoti Mayal

Redefining Travel: Exclusive Insights with Jyoti Mayal

Jyoti Mayal

Published on May 1, 2025

In an exclusive feature for HospitalityNews' May Edition, we had the privilege of engaging in a compelling conversation with Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson of the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC), and one of the most respected voices in India's tourism industry. With decades of experience and a keen eye on global trends, Jyoti Mayal brings a wealth of knowledge to the table—touching upon everything from eco-tourism to digital transformation in travel.

Her insights are not only eye-opening but also signal the emerging priorities of Indian travellers and how the industry must evolve to meet them. From discussing how tourism boards are crafting immersive experiences tailored to Indian preferences, to highlighting India's rising status in medical tourism, every part of the conversation offered a deeper look into the rapidly changing world of travel.

She begins by sharing how Indian travellers have moved beyond the conventional. “Indian travelers today are more informed, curious, and experience-driven than ever before…” This evolving mindset, she says, is driving demand for personalization and pushing agencies to elevate their offerings.

Further in the discussion, she emphasizes the meaningful collaborations between international tourism boards and Indian travel professionals. She reveals how these partnerships are building cultural bridges and setting new standards in hospitality.

On India’s leadership in medical tourism, Mayal proudly notes the impact of the Heal in India initiative and how the THSC is playing a transformative role in creating a skilled and empathetic ecosystem.

From sustainability in wildlife tourism to seamless international travel experiences and AI-driven travel planning, her observations are a masterclass in future-focused thinking.

This enlightening conversation with Jyoti Mayal is a must-read for industry leaders, aspiring travel professionals, and anyone interested in where Indian tourism is headed.

Catch the complete interview in the May edition of Hospitality News, available on our website. You can also get a physical copy to keep this enriching feature in your collection. It was truly a great conversation—one that sheds light on the vision, strategy, and heart behind India’s travel transformation.


The Untold Stories of Sri Lanka: Suchitra Aluwihare’s Approach to Immersive Travel

The Untold Stories of Sri Lanka: Suchitra Aluwihare’s Approach to Immersive Travel

Suchitra Aluwihare

Published on May 1, 2025

With a career spanning over 20 years in Sri Lanka’s vibrant travel and tourism industry, Suchitra Aluwihare stands at the forefront of redefining destination management. As the Chief Operating Officer of Hayleys Travels, one of Sri Lanka’s leading travel solutions providers, Mr. Aluwihare has played a vital role in shaping curated travel experiences that go beyond traditional tourism.

In this exclusive feature for HospitalityNews by GuestVento, Suchitra shares how Hayleys Travels combines technology, local expertise, and sustainability to craft journeys that are deeply personal and impactful. From immersive wildlife encounters to wellness-focused itineraries, the company’s unique offerings reflect a deep understanding of modern traveler preferences.

Under Mr. Aluwihare’s guidance, Hayleys has embraced responsible tourism as a core philosophy. From reforestation and marine conservation to partnering with local artisans and community-driven experiences, the goal is to ensure that every trip benefits both the traveler and the destination. His belief that “every journey should leave a positive footprint” drives much of the brand’s innovation.

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The conversation also touches on Sri Lanka’s lesser-known destinations—from boat safaris in Gal Oya to dolphin watching in Kalpitiya—reminding readers that the island’s real magic often lies off the beaten path. Mr. Aluwihare’s passion for showcasing Sri Lanka’s hidden gems is matched only by his commitment to preserving them for future generations.

Want to know what sets Hayleys apart in a crowded market? Curious about how tech is shaping sustainable travel? Read the full interview with Suchitra Aluwihare in the latest May edition of HospitalityNews by GuestVento.

Head to our website to read the full e-magazine and DM us for physical copies!