Heritage-led development took center stage at Pravasi Rajasthani Diwas, where Mr. Sandip Nowlakha, Vice President of the Murshidabad Heritage Development Society, addressed delegates on “Havelis to Heritage: Unveiling the Legacy of Rajasthan’s Pioneering Entrepreneurs.” Drawing parallels between Rajasthan’s iconic havelis and Bengal’s historic homes, he highlighted the national relevance of preserving heritage while fostering economic sustainability.

Rajasthan has over a million havelis, many left neglected as owners migrated to cities like Kolkata. Bengal faces similar challenges with its rajbaris, kothis, and merchant houses. Mr. Nowlakha advocated adaptive reuse, transforming historic homes into museums of family history that preserve architecture as well as the entrepreneurial legacies of generations.

Citing successful restorations in Murshidabad, including Kathgola Palace, Bari Kothi, Jagat Seth’s House, and Nashipur Rajbari, he emphasised the economic potential of conservation-led development. Kathgola Palace alone attracts 1.2 million visitors annually, while Jagat Seth’s House and Nashipur Rajbari each welcome around 1 million visitors yearly. “Heritage conservation can generate sustained visitor interest, local employment, and economic activity without compromising historical integrity,” he noted.

Mr. Nowlakha stressed that Rajasthan’s havelis, as historical repositories, require sensitive interpretation rather than structural reinvention. With contemporary conservation practices and curated narratives, these properties can become living history spaces, encouraging cultural exchange and tourism while keeping shared heritage alive for future generations.

Pravasi Rajasthani Diwas also featured sessions on investment opportunities in education, healthcare, and tourism, highlighting the strategic role of cultural assets in development. The event saw participation from dignitaries including Shri Bhajan Lal Sharma, Chief Minister of Rajasthan; Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Culture; Smt. Diya Kumari, Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan; and Mr. Sundeep Bhutoria, Managing Trustee, Prabha Khaitan Foundation, Kolkata.

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced the signing of a Vivanta hotel in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. This greenfield development marks IHCL’s entry into Vellore and further strengthens its presence in the state.

Commenting on the signing, Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said, “Vellore is an established education and industrial hub with improving connectivity and infrastructure, making it a promising hospitality market. Its inclusion in the Government of India’s Smart Cities Mission reflects the city’s growth potential. We are delighted to partner with Mr. Baskaran on this project.”

The upcoming Vivanta Vellore will feature 100 keys and reflect the brand’s contemporary design philosophy with vibrant and modern spaces. The hotel will house an all-day dining restaurant, a stylish bar and a pool lounge bar. It will also offer multiple meeting rooms and a banquet hall spanning over 2,500 sq. ft., catering to business meetings and social events. Recreational facilities at the hotel will include a well-equipped gym and a swimming pool.

Mr. Baskaran of BBK Group said, “We are pleased to collaborate with IHCL to introduce the Vivanta brand to Vellore. This hotel will add to the city’s growing hospitality landscape and create a landmark destination for travellers.”

Vellore is known for its strong cultural, educational and healthcare ecosystem and is home to prominent attractions such as the Golden Temple at Sripuram and the historic Vellore Fort. The city also serves as an important education and medical hub, while neighbouring districts contribute to a thriving industrial belt with clusters in leather, automotive components and engineering.

About the Owning Company

Founded in 1994 by Mr. Baskaran, BBK Group began with the establishment of the BBK Shoes factory and has grown into a leading vertically integrated leather footwear and goods manufacturer. The group operates eight advanced manufacturing facilities across Tamil Nadu and has recently expanded into renewable energy through wind and solar power projects, aligning with its long-term sustainability goals.

In a move to streamline procurement for the hospitality industry, Frill Hospitality, a leading Indian manufacturer and supplier of hotel toiletries, has recently launched its dedicated online store at www.hoteltoiletries.shop. This new platform allows hotels, resorts, and other hospitality businesses to directly order high-quality toiletries and amenities, with shipments delivered straight from the factory to their doorstep.

Frill Hospitality has long been recognized for its premium, Ayurvedic-inspired products that blend traditional wellness extracts with modern formulations. The online shop brings their extensive range directly to customers, addressing the need for quick, hassle-free access to toiletries, especially when supplies are required in short notice.

Wide Range of Premium Products

The store features an impressive selection of toiletries under Frill's signature brands, including Forestra, Sea Breeze, Isvara Naturals, and Divine. Key products include:

• Core Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, and soap bars.
• Amenity Kits: Dental kits, shaving kits, vanity kits, combs, shower caps, and more.

Packaging Variety: Options in boxes, pouches, plastic bottles, tubes, or eco-friendly materials like wooden elements. Products are available in guest-sized portions (e.g., 30-35ml bottles) as well as bulk formats, including large 5-liter cans for dispensers. 

These products are designed to elevate the guest experience, offering luxurious scents, nourishing formulas, and sustainable options that align with modern hospitality standards.

Convenience and Trial Options

The launch emphasizes efficiency: orders are processed quickly, saving time on traditional procurement processes while ensuring reliable, direct deliveries. For hotels exploring options, the store offers sample kits, an affordable way to test various products and brands before committing to larger orders.

To explore the full catalogue and place orders, visit www.hoteltoiletries.shop. For bulk inquiries, custom branding, or any questions, reach out via email at info@frillhospitality.com or check their main site at www.frillhospitality.com.

This online initiative marks a significant step for Frill Hospitality in making premium hotel amenities more accessible, helping properties deliver exceptional comfort and care to their guests.