Today, we bid farewell to PRS Oberoi, the legendary figure in India's hospitality business, who passed away this morning (November 14). Known affectionately as "Biki," his journey in the world of luxurious hotels has left an indelible mark.

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He spent his early years travelling across the globe in style, figuring out luxury better than many hotel bosses. Biki saw that the old-style Hilton hotels were out and the new Four Seasons-type luxury spots were in. He knew Indian hotels were making a mistake by copying the Americans as the real hotspots were in Asia, where a new kind of hospitality was booming.

Biki, born in 1929, not only served as the Executive Chairman of The Oberoi Group but was also a symbol of outstanding service to India. In 2008, the Government of India honoured him with the Padma Vibhushan, the country's second-highest civilian award, recognising his exceptional contributions.

His legacy extends beyond the opulent hotels he led. His global education and a degree in Hotel Management from Lausanne, Switzerland, brought a unique perspective to India's hospitality industry.

Biki worked his magic on the Oberoi Grand in Kolkata and got back at the Taj for a 1978 showdown. The Oberoi New Delhi became a hit again. He saw the chance in Gurgaon, first with the Trident and then a full-fledged Oberoi. The Bangalore hotel set new standards too.

Let's not forget the posh Vilas hotels – Rajvilas, Udaivilas, Wildflower Hall, Amarvilas, Vanyavilas, and Sukhvilas. These places were not just super fancy but also super tasteful, matching the best in the world.

Biki wasn't just about swanky resorts; he also changed how city hotels in India were built and run. Despite being a big boss, he read every guest comment and, if needed, fixed things personally.

His influence reached international acclaim, earning him the title of ‘Corporate Hotelier of the World’ by Hotels magazine in 2010. His diverse contributions included directorship at Jet Airways (India) Limited, showcasing his multifaceted impact on the industry.

Family was central to Biki's life and he left behind a legacy to be carried by his son, Vikram, now the CEO and Managing Director of EIH, and two daughters.

In June 2022, the International Hospitality Institute recognized Biki among the "100 Most Powerful People in Global Hospitality." This acknowledgment underscores his enduring influence on the international stage.

Also watch: Throwback to when PRS Oberoi decided to shut down the Delhi Oberoi for revival

As we remember Biki Oberoi, we reflect on a life marked by accolades, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His legacy lives on in the fabric of The Oberoi Group and the broader landscape of global hospitality.

Biki's journey, from reshaping city hotels in India to creating the posh Vilas hotels, exemplifies not just luxury but tasteful innovation. His meticulous attention to guest feedback and daring risks, like the closure and revival of the Delhi Oberoi, defined him as a true pioneer in the world of posh hospitality.

Today, even as we bid farewell to PRS Oberoi, his legacy, etched in the luxury and style of Oberoi Hotels, will continue to inspire the pursuit of excellence across India’s hospitality sector.

(Edited by : Kanishka Sarkar)