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By Vaishakh Surendran
Published on June 10, 2025
Vaishakh Surendran, the General Manager of Lyfe Hotels & Resorts in Bhubaneswar, brings a rich experience and a people-first philosophy that is redefining the hospitality space in Odisha’s capital. Under his leadership, the hotel is fast becoming a standout in the city’s competitive hospitality scene. With a progressive approach, sustainable practices, and a commitment to nurturing talent, Vaishakh and his team are creating a space where both guests and employees thrive.
We sat down with Vaishakh Surendran to understand the vision behind Lyfe Hotels, the cultural and operational essence of the property, and what sets it apart in the evolving hospitality landscape of Bhubaneswar.
1. What inspired your approach to leading Lyfe Hotels & Resorts in Bhubaneswar, and how do you ensure the property stands out in a competitive hospitality landscape?
“I have worked with various brands and owners during my stint as GM over the last 12 years,” says Vaishakh. “While most focus on improving revenue and profitability, what stood out during my interview with our Chairman Shri Srinibash Sahoo was his emphasis on human capital. He expressed a vision for a hotel with near zero attrition, and that deeply resonated with my personal belief that valuing people is the foundation for long-term success. Happy employees lead to happy guests, and that in turn drives repeat business and profitability.”
Being a relatively new entrant in the Bhubaneswar hospitality scene, Lyfe Hotels has experienced both challenges and milestones. But Vaishakh is confident about their distinctiveness. “Our vision and offerings are designed to align with what modern guests seek—experience-led stays. From our location and unique architecture to stylish rooms and the much-talked-about F&B experience, we’ve set ourselves apart. Notably, our Thai restaurant ‘Sweet Basil’ is the only one in Eastern India to feature an expat chef. At the end of FY 2024–25, we surpassed the topline revenue of many established branded hotels in the city, and that motivates us to aim even higher.”
2. What were some of the key priorities you focused on when you took charge, and how have they shaped the overall guest experience at the hotel?
Vaishakh outlines three key priorities: increasing revenue, optimizing operational efficiency, and improving profitability. “In addition, I’ve always focused on nurturing our People, Product, and Processes,” he shares. “Our Net Promoter Score (NPS) has risen to 85, and we’re targeting 90+. While revenues are strong, we’re continuously identifying areas to improve. Our attrition rate is well within industry standards, and we ensure 100% compliance with all statutory and Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) norms.”
3. Bhubaneswar is a vibrant mix of tradition and progress. How do you blend the city's cultural essence with the contemporary vibe of the Lyfe brand?
“Bhubaneswar is known as the Temple City, but it’s also emerging as a hub for sports, IT, and commercial ventures,” he says. “This blend of the old and new aligns perfectly with our brand ethos. While most hotels follow predictable formats, Lyfe offers something fresh. We bring a contemporary design sensibility and guest experience, while also practicing sustainable tourism rooted in Odisha’s cultural heritage. That’s how we stand out.”
4. How is the property embracing environmentally conscious practices, and what impact have these had on both operations and guest perception?
At Lyfe Hotels, sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a core value. “Our brand values are encapsulated in the acronym SPIRIT, where 'S' stands for Sustainability,” Vaishakh explains. “From design to daily operations, every element is conceived to reduce our environmental footprint. We use natural lighting, LED fixtures, motion-sensor-based utilities, solar panels, EV charging stations, paper pens, and an in-house water bottling plant. We avoid single-use plastics and locally source all fruits, vegetables, and meat. These efforts resonate well with our guests and align with global best practices.”
5. What leadership philosophy do you follow to motivate your team and maintain high service standards throughout the hotel?
“I believe in being present on the shop floor,” says Vaishakh. “It helps me get a first-hand feel of the guest experience and staff morale. I interact regularly with guests and team members, and maintain an open-door policy that encourages honest conversations.”
He also focuses on empowering his team through knowledge sharing and skill development. “I conduct regular training sessions based on best practices and my personal experiences. I believe every team member should be empowered to bring out their best. When people feel valued and free to innovate, service quality naturally improves.”
6. What is your long-term vision for Lyfe Hotels & Resorts in this region, and how do you plan to elevate the brand’s presence further?
Vaishakh envisions Lyfe Hotels becoming the preferred hospitality brand for guests, employees, and owners alike. “Rather than replicating a cookie-cutter format, we aim to create unique properties that reflect the spirit of their locations,” he shares. “Each hotel will carry the DNA of Lyfe Bhubaneswar but offer a distinct experience. That’s how we plan to grow—not just in numbers, but in character and guest impact.”
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By Nishang Narayan
Published on August 9, 2025
jüSTa Hotels & Resorts, operated by Onora Hospitality Pvt. Ltd., is all set to make its Uttar Pradesh debut with the launch of jüSTa Kashi Parampara in August 2025. This will be the boutique brand’s 26th hotel in India and its first in the spiritual city of Varanasi.
Located just 800 meters from the iconic Assi Ghat, jüSTa Kashi Parampara occupies an 80-year-old ancestral home, transformed into a hotel for the first time. Offering a seamless blend of heritage and design, the property promises a deeply immersive stay experience in the cultural heart of India.
“This project is close to our hearts, not just because of its unique character and location, but because it continues our commitment to preserving and reviving heritage properties across India. We started this initiative with jüSTa Diwans Bungalow in Ahmedabad last year and this is the second heritage property we are converting into a jüSTa hotel,” said Ashish Vohra, Founder & CEO, jüSTa Hotels & Resorts.
The two-storied bungalow has been reimagined into 14 well-appointed rooms, including two elegant suites, all built around a central courtyard. Interiors in earthy tones create a serene contrast to Varanasi’s bustling atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for wellness and spiritual travellers.
Heritage elements such as 100-year-old handcrafted wooden pillars, sandstone jali work from Jodhpur, and high ceilings enhance the haveli-like charm. The hotel will serve only vegetarian food, with guests enjoying local and international cuisine at the in-house multi-cuisine vegetarian restaurant.
With its understated exterior and tranquil interiors, jüSTa Kashi Parampara is poised to offer travellers an authentic yet luxurious Banaras experience when it opens in August 2025.
By Hariharan U
Kamat Hotels India Ltd is all set to add another gem to its eco-luxury portfolio with the opening of The Orchid Panchgani this September. Located in the scenic Western Ghats of Maharashtra, the property offers travelers a refreshing mix of tranquility, indulgence, and nature’s charm.
Surrounded by rolling valleys, strawberry farms, and misty hills, The Orchid Panchgani promises an elevated yet immersive hill-station experience. The accommodation options cater to different tastes and occasions from cozy Classic and Superior Rooms to lavish Honeymoon, Executive, and Royal Suites. Guests can also choose unique stays in rustic wooden chalets or air-conditioned luxury tents, combining comfort with a touch of the outdoors.
For leisure and entertainment, the property features a spa and wellness center, a fully equipped gym, indoor games, karaoke, a children’s playroom, and an in-house discotheque. Event planners and families will find ample space with the ‘Chamber’ banquet hall and a sprawling 30,000 sq.ft. lawn, making it an ideal venue for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations.
“Panchgani has always held a special place in the hearts of travelers—its natural beauty, old-world charm, and proximity to major cities make it a perfect location for our next Orchid experience. With this new property, we aim to offer a stay that blends luxury with sustainability, and comfort with culture”, said Vishal Kamat, Executive Director, Kamat Hotels India Ltd.
Dining at the in-house multi-cuisine restaurant ‘Boulevard’ will add to the experience, while adventure seekers can explore outdoor activities and sports arranged by the hotel. The outdoor swimming pool, set against a scenic backdrop, offers the perfect spot to unwind.
Highlighting its focus on culturally rich celebrations, Dr. Vithal Kamat, Chairman, Kamat Hotels India Ltd, shared, “Weddings are sacred celebrations of love and tradition. At The Orchid Panchgani, we’ve created an idyllic space where families can host culturally rich and entirely vegetarian wedding galas. With expansive lawns, elegant indoor venues, and a pure-veg gourmet kitchen, the hotel is a perfect destination for Gujarati, Marwadi, Jain, and other community weddings that value authenticity, grandeur, and green surroundings”.
With its serene location, eco-conscious design, and signature Orchid hospitality, The Orchid Panchgani is set to become a go-to destination for couples, families, and travelers looking for a luxury escape in the Western Ghats.
Published on August 8, 2025
The Suba Group of Hotels is all set to expand its footprint in the UAE with the grand opening of Click Park Hotel, Dubai, on August 8, 2025. Located near the bustling Deira City Centre, the new property promises a contemporary stay experience blending comfort, convenience, and the signature hospitality the group is known for.
Part of the Click Hotels brand under the Suba Group, Click Park Hotel, Dubai, will cater to both business and leisure travellers, offering stylish rooms, modern amenities, and easy access to the city’s iconic landmarks. Its strategic location in Deira places guests minutes away from shopping hubs, business districts, and cultural attractions, making it an ideal choice for visitors seeking a central base.
The launch marks another milestone in the Suba Group’s expansion strategy, strengthening its presence in the Middle East while reaffirming its commitment to delivering world-class hospitality with a personal touch. Guests can expect spacious accommodations, high-speed connectivity, in-room dining, and a welcoming ambience designed for today’s discerning traveller.
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