Mr. Brojo Dutta Unveils Davanam Sarovar's Unique Edge in Bangalore's Hotel Scene and Insights on Smart Hotels and Sustainability

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Published on December 8, 2023

Mr. Brojo Dutta's career in the hospitality industry is a testament to growth and expertise. Since graduating from hotel management school in 2002, he has honed his skills in Operations Management, Customer Relationship Management (CRM), and Employee Training through various roles, leading to his current position as General Manager. His journey started at ITC Welcome Hotel Vadodara, progressing through prestigious hotels including Radisson and the HHI group in Kolkata. A significant period at Sarovar Hotels saw him advance from Front Office Manager to Resident Manager. His journey reached a milestone in March 2022, when he became the General Manager at Davanam Sarovar Portico Suites, Bangalore. Mr. Dutta's career, marked by unwavering dedication and leadership, exemplifies the path to success in hospitality, emphasizing the value of hands-on experience and continuous professional growth.

In an exclusive interview with Hospitality News, Mr. Brojo Dutta, shared his insights on various aspects of hotel management and emerging industry trends. When queried about what sets his hotel apart from others in Bangalore, Mr. Dutta revealed:

"Well, to begin with, the room sizes in our hotel are extraordinary. Our rooms range from about 60 square metres to 140 square metres. Having such large rooms is really exceptional in Bangalore today. Our hotel is an all-suite hotel, meaning all 132 rooms are suites. Each suite includes a living room and a sleeping room. In every room, we have installed a 190-liter refrigerator and equipped them with a microwave oven, induction stove, and basic kitchen utensils. Each room also features a small kitchenette. I believe this is one of our unique selling points, which is quite rare in Bangalore. This setup is advantageous for our business because such large rooms offer great value for money. It makes our hotel a preferred choice for people coming here for business, family occasions, or even extended stays."

When asked about the emerging trends in the hotel industry that he finds particularly interesting or impactful, Mr. Dutta elaborated:

"In today's date, there are many new trends evolving in the hotel industry. One notable trend is the emergence of smart hotels, where technology is used extensively to enhance guest experiences. Hotels are implementing voice assistants to control room temperatures, and some have even started using robots for food delivery and room cleaning. Sustainability has also become a vital part of the hotel industry, particularly after COVID. Hotels in the Indian market are focusing on sustainable practices, ensuring a minimal carbon footprint and avoiding plastic waste. Another emerging trend is 'bleisure,' a mix of business and leisure. Guests are looking not only for business facilities but also for leisure experiences in hotels. For instance, in my hotel, we have an excellent spa setup, a fully-equipped health club, and a swimming pool, which provide a great experience for extended stay guests. Experiential travel is also gaining popularity. Guests seek local experiences, such as cookery shows and sightseeing, which add significant value to their stay. Furthermore, the concept of the sharing economy is emerging, where guests are interested in shared accommodations at more affordable prices. Micro hotels and markets are evolving, with major hotel chains and management companies expanding into tier two and tier three cities. The demand in these cities is growing, perhaps even more than in metropolitan areas. Post-COVID, the hotel industry is witnessing a great period of growth and evolution."

It was indeed a captivating conversation we had with Mr. Dutta, filled with insightful perspectives and innovative practices in the hotel industry. For those interested in exploring this engaging discussion in-depth, the complete video is available on the Hospitality News YouTube channel. Additionally,

The full interview can be read in the Hospitality News December magazine, available on our website.


Creating a Home Away from Home: Maitry Upreti on Vita Student

Creating a Home Away from Home: Maitry Upreti on Vita Student

Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 4, 2024

Vita Student, a renowned name in the realm of student accommodation, offers a luxurious and comfortable living experience for students across the UK and beyond. With a commitment to providing exceptional facilities and services, Vita Student has become the preferred choice for discerning students seeking a premium living environment.

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"International students often share similar needs when studying abroad: they seek safety, a welcoming environment, and opportunities to thrive—whether that’s meeting new people, maximizing their university experience, or getting a head start in their careers. That’s precisely what Vita Student provides," Maitry Upreti, Head of Business Growth, Vita Student, shares.

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"Vita Student, traditionally marketed through agents in India, recognizes both the opportunities and challenges in this space. The key lies in effectively demonstrating the unique value Vita Student offers to those choosing to study in the UK or Spain, setting it apart from other accommodation options," she says while elaborating on the vision they have implemented for Vita Student’s expansion into India.

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Vita Student is quickly becoming a top choice for Indian students studying abroad, offering an ideal balance of work and leisure through its impressive range of amenities. Social hub spaces, private dining rooms, and dedicated study areas ensure students can maximize their academic experience while enjoying a vibrant community life. With 24-hour access, manned security, and key card entry, Vita Student prioritizes safety, providing peace of mind for students and their families.

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"My focus and passion lie in introducing the Vita Student brand to those searching for accommodation, helping them understand that choosing Vita can lead to a better overall experience and outcome compared to other options in the same city," the Head of Business Growth declares.

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There is more to this conversation with Maitry Upreti, and to get more exclusive scoop, visit the link: September Issue [Catch her interview on Page 32.]


Taking Off with Encalm: A Conversation with Vikas Sharma

Taking Off with Encalm: A Conversation with Vikas Sharma

Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 4, 2024

"Airports can be overwhelming, and my goal was to create an oasis of calm where travelers could relax and truly enjoy their transit," Vikas Sharma, CEO, Encalm Hospitality, opens with his pleasant statement. Encalm Hospitality, a renowned name in the hospitality industry, is committed to providing exceptional experiences to its guests. With a strong focus on comfort, luxury, and personalized service, Encalm has established itself as a leading choice for discerning travelers.

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"We introduced our Meet & Assist service, ‘Atithya,’ at Delhi, Hyderabad, and Manohar International Airports in Goa. This service offers personalized assistance, ensuring that each guest’s transit is both memorable and hassle-free. Additionally, we launched the ‘Encalm Lounge,’ providing travelers with an exclusive space to unwind before their flights," he says. Encalm masterfully blends luxury with practicality, offering a sophisticated travel experience that addresses both indulgent desires and functional needs.

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"In the ‘Encalm Lounge,’ the focus shifts to creating an environment that radiates comfort and exclusivity. From the carefully selected amenities to the thoughtfully crafted ambiance, every element is designed to offer our guests a tranquil and relaxing retreat," says the CEO while talking about meeting the high standards that Encalm is known for.

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Since its inception, Encalm has been committed to redefining the travel experience, with some of the most rewarding moments stemming from the heartfelt feedback of travelers. The pinnacle of Encalm's journey so far has been the launch of Encalm Privé, a grand 30,000 sq. ft. lounge with a capacity for over 550 guests. This lounge, which features everything from a gaming zone to a fitness center, premium beverages, and sleeping pods, sets a new standard for luxury in airport hospitality.

"As we continue to expand our services to airports in more cities, our commitment remains unwavering," Vikas Sharma says. And we can be rest assured the new expansions will hold the sentiment true to their hearts.

Catch the complete interview exclusively on our September Issue, out now. Link: September Magazine 
[Find his interview on Page 42.]


The Art of Curating Unforgettable Experiences—A Conversation with Tamarind Global’s AVP

The Art of Curating Unforgettable Experiences—A Conversation with Tamarind Global’s AVP

Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 4, 2024

"I've always believed that the work you do and the environment where you spend a significant portion of your time should be inspiring, a place where you bring energy and passion every day," says Anjali Tolani, Assistant Vice President - Weddings at Tamarind Global. Tamarind Global stands as a premier destination and event management company with a distinguished history of crafting extraordinary experiences. Deeply rooted in India while maintaining a global perspective, the company specializes in delivering bespoke solutions tailored to the unique needs of both individual and corporate clients. 

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Now, decorating the AVP Chair, Anjali Tolani, interestingly, comes with a background of pharmaceutical studies. "...a choice made before I had fully clarified my future ambitions," she says about her education. Starting as a Medical Representative, and exploring areas such as advertising, banking, and eventually becoming a General Manager at a wellness resort, she found her way into the travel industry. 

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She also had her fair share of challenges navigating the industry which now feels like her second home. "The first major challenge arose with the advent of online travel companies, which dramatically transformed how people book travel and accommodations. The second significant challenge occurred during the pandemic, when business slumped and competition intensified—not just from industry peers but also from hotels seeking to establish direct connections with clients," she says. Fast forward, Tamarind has emerged as a stronger brand weathering all these challenges. 

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Find more exclusive scoops about the AVP and Tamarind Global at the exclusive interview here: September Issue [Find the interview at page 28.]

Image Credits: Tamarind Global Official Website