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By Author
Published on March 9, 2025
In the heart of the Maldives, OBLU SELECT Lobigili, part of Atmosphere Core, is rewriting the narrative of luxury hospitality with an 80% women-majority workforce—an extraordinary contrast to the industry norm of just 25% female representation. From housekeeping to guest experiences, women are at the forefront, crafting personalized and intuitive service while challenging long-standing industry stereotypes.
One such inspiring woman is Sam, an Island Hostess at OBLU SELECT Lobigili, who shares her journey and the magic behind the resort’s unique approach to hospitality.
A Day in the Life of an Island Hostess
“For me, each day starts with warm welcomes and ensuring that every detail of our guests’ stay is perfect,” says Sam. “From curating bespoke experiences to planning romantic dinners by the ocean, every moment is about creating joy and connection.”Being part of an environment where women are empowered and encouraged to lead has made this role even more special. “It’s not just a job—it’s proof that women can excel and redefine excellence in hospitality.”
Creating Unforgettable Guest Experiences
One of Sam’s most heartfelt experiences at Lobigili was arranging a surprise anniversary celebration for a couple visiting the Maldives for the first time. “The husband shared that it had always been his wife’s dream to experience the Maldives—the overwater villas, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life. To make their farewell truly special, I decorated their villa’s glass floor with intricate sand art, allowing them to enjoy a breathtaking view of the ocean beneath their feet,” she recalls. “Seeing their joy and knowing I played a part in creating such a cherished memory was deeply rewarding.”
Bringing ‘The Island of Love’ to Life
Lobigili translates to “Island of Love,” and Sam and her team embody this essence in every guest interaction. “From the moment guests arrive, we ensure they feel welcomed, cherished, and cared for. Our predominantly female team brings a compassionate and intuitive approach to service, making every experience heartfelt and memorable,” she explains. “For us, ‘Island of Love’ isn’t just a name—it’s a philosophy that guides everything we do.”
Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Industry
Growing up in Seenu Atoll, Sam’s journey into hospitality was far from conventional. “Coming from a background where the industry wasn’t seen as a space for women, joining this field felt like chasing the extraordinary,” she shares. Earning a diploma in hospitality in 2016, she started her career with part-time jobs, eventually working her way up through roles like Kids Club Attendant and Receptionist.
In December 2023, Sam achieved her dream role as an Island Hostess at Lobigili. “Being part of a team where women take the lead is both empowering and inspiring. The support and opportunities I’ve received here have shaped my career and reaffirmed my belief in the power of women to redefine hospitality.”
Celebrating Women in Hospitality
When asked what new experience she would introduce at Lobigili, Sam envisions a storytelling session celebrating local culture and traditions. “Women could take the lead, adorned in traditional attire, to share enchanting folk tales, customs, and culinary narratives. This initiative would not only showcase our creativity but also create an authentic connection between guests and the rich heritage of the Maldives.”
For women aspiring to join the hospitality industry, Sam has an inspiring message: “Have faith in yourself and embrace every opportunity with confidence. Hospitality is a field where passion, perseverance, and dedication can take you far. Don’t let traditional stereotypes hold you back—women are redefining the industry and proving that leadership, innovation, and compassion are powerful assets.”
The Future of Atmosphere Core
In just a decade, Atmosphere Core has expanded from a single island resort to one of the Maldives’ largest operators, with a pipeline of 25+ properties across India, South Asia, and beyond. Renowned for its personalized service, culinary excellence, and luxury experiences, the brand continues to disrupt markets and redefine global hospitality.
At OBLU SELECT Lobigili, the pioneering women-led team is setting new standards in the industry, proving that true luxury is not just about lavish accommodations but about heartfelt connections and the power of inclusion. As the hospitality landscape continues to evolve, the resort stands as a shining example of how empowering women can transform an industry—and redefine excellence along the way.
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By Hariharan U
Published on October 29, 2026
Bengaluru-based Kalyani Developers plans to expand its hospitality portfolio to over 1,400 keys across Bengaluru and Hyderabad over the next two years, including a dual-brand hotel development with Hilton featuring approximately 600 keys in Bengaluru.
The planned development will bring together two Hilton brands within a single integrated project, with Hilton targeting the upper-upscale segment and Conrad positioned in the luxury segment. The partnership marks a significant step in Kalyani Developers' plans to strengthen its presence in India's premium hospitality market.
Beyond the Bengaluru project, the company is in discussions with leading international hotel operators for an additional 825 keys as it works towards its broader expansion target.
Kalyani Developers has identified Bengaluru and Hyderabad as key markets for its hospitality growth strategy. Both cities have established business districts and growing demand for accommodation catering to corporate travellers, leisure guests and meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE).
The company's planned expansion aims to complement its existing real estate portfolio while creating opportunities in markets where premium hospitality offerings can serve business travel, tourism and large-scale events.
Commenting on the strategy, Priyanka Raju, Director, Kalyani Developers, said, "Our hospitality business is an important part of our long-term growth strategy, and our aim is to build destinations that are relevant to the evolving needs of the markets we operate in. Bengaluru and Hyderabad are at the centre of our strategic growth plans for hospitality. Both markets are evolving rapidly, with increasing demand for world-class, globally benchmarked hospitality experiences. Our focus is to bring exceptional quality, service and experiences to these markets by partnering with leading international hotel operators. Our objective is to create hospitality developments that meet global standards while being deeply relevant to the needs and opportunities of each market."
The proposed expansion reflects Kalyani Developers' intention to establish a stronger presence in the hospitality sector through partnerships with international hotel operators. The dual-brand Bengaluru development will combine an upper-upscale offering with a luxury hotel under the Conrad brand, catering to different segments of the premium accommodation market.
With discussions underway for the additional 825 keys, the company's target extends beyond a single project and points to a broader development pipeline across Bengaluru and Hyderabad.
As demand for premium accommodation, business travel and MICE facilities continues to shape these urban markets, Kalyani Developers is positioning hospitality as a complementary growth area alongside its real estate business.
Ramada Gurgaon Central has welcomed Chef Dharmender Singh to its team, bringing over 18 years of hospitality industry experience to the property's culinary operations.
An alumnus of the Institute of Hotel Management (IHM), Lucknow, where he studied from 2004 to 2007, Chef Dharmender has built his professional journey in the hospitality sector. His appointment adds to the hotel's culinary expertise as it continues to focus on food quality, consistency and guest satisfaction.
Culinary professionals play a key role in shaping a hotel's food and beverage identity, from developing food concepts and maintaining kitchen standards to ensuring consistency across dining experiences. Their work also contributes to guest satisfaction and the overall perception of a property's dining offerings.
At Ramada Gurgaon Central, Chef Dharmender's addition comes as hotels continue to respond to evolving guest expectations around food quality, presentation, variety and service. Experienced culinary professionals contribute to these priorities through their knowledge of kitchen operations, culinary techniques and quality standards.
Located in Gurugram, the hotel serves a diverse audience that includes corporate travellers, business professionals, local diners and leisure guests. Its culinary operations form an important part of the overall hospitality experience offered to these visitors.
Chef Dharmender's appointment marks a new chapter in his career and strengthens the experience within Ramada Gurgaon Central's culinary team as the property continues to focus on its food and beverage offerings.
Ramada Gurgaon Central is part of the Ramada brand under Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. Located in Gurugram, the hotel caters to business and leisure travellers, offering accommodation, dining and hospitality services in one of the region's commercial destinations.
The Westin Chennai Velachery has appointed Dinesh Kumar as its new Executive Chef, strengthening its culinary leadership with a professional experienced in kitchen operations and dining across established hospitality brands in Chennai.
Chef Dinesh joins the hotel from Four Points by Sheraton Chennai Velachery, where he served as Executive Chef. His professional journey also includes nearly five years as Executive Sous Chef at Hilton Chennai, from November 2019 to August 2024, and an earlier stint as Sous Chef at Courtyard by Marriott Chennai.
In his new role, Chef Dinesh will oversee culinary operations across the hotel's food and beverage outlets, with responsibilities spanning menu development, food quality, consistency and the overall dining experience. He will focus on evolving the hotel's culinary offerings while catering to the diverse preferences of Chennai's diners.
Commenting on the appointment, Deepraj Mukherjee, General Manager, The Westin Chennai Velachery, said, “We are delighted to welcome Chef Dinesh to our culinary team. His experience and understanding of the hospitality industry will be valuable as we continue to create distinctive dining experiences for our guests.”
Sharing his thoughts on the new role, Dinesh Kumar, Executive Chef, The Westin Chennai Velachery, said, “I am delighted to begin this journey with The Westin Chennai Velachery. I look forward to working with the team to bring fresh ideas to the table, celebrate good food and create memorable culinary experiences for our guests.”
With experience across multiple hospitality properties, Chef Dinesh's appointment reflects the hotel's continued focus on culinary development, food quality and guest-centric dining experiences.
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