IHCL Steps Into Puducherry, Signs A Vivanta

MUMBAI, SEPTEMBER 10, 2024: Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, today announced the signing of a new hotel in Puducherry. This Greenfield project will be branded a Vivanta.

“In recent years, Puducherry has emerged as a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers. This hotel will be a modern oasis in the heart of the charming former French colony. This strategic expansion aligns with IHCL's commitment to establishing its presence across key locations in India. We are delighted to partner with Mr. Ajay Virmani and Mr. Sandip Ganguli for this venture.”

Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President, Real Estate and Development, IHCL

The 85-key hotel will feature an all-day diner, a bar, a gym as well as treatment rooms for its wellness offering. The hotel will offer spacious meeting rooms and pre-function areas for corporate meetings and social gatherings. Inspired by Puducherry’s rich cultural tapestry, the hotel’s design will seamlessly blend modern aesthetics with the city’s French influences. The hotel’s strategic location will provide easy access to the city’s key attractions, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the true essence of the city.

"We are delighted to collaborate with IHCL to introduce the Vivanta brand to Puducherry. This partnership will bring a fresh and exciting energy to the city, providing guests with a distinctive and exceptional stay."

Ajay Virmani, and  Sandip Ganguli of Auroma Soft Resorts and Hotels Pvt. Ltd.

Puducherry, a former French colony, boasts a unique blend of Indian and French cultures. Its picturesque promenade, stunning beaches, and historic French and Tamil heritage quarters make it a captivating destination for travelers looking for a fusion of heritage and natural beauty.

About The Owners

Promoted by Mr. Ajay Virmani and Mr. Sandip Ganguli, the partners have interests in luxury real estate, hotels, premium Airbnbs, tech and manufacturing in Pondicherry.

Mr. Ajay Virmani is a successful entrepreneur based in Pondicherry with over 35 years’ experience in logistics, hospitality, real estate and manufacturing. His company has worked with MNCs such as Samsung, Whirlpool, Panasonic, Asian Paints, and Jaquar. He now runs a consultancy firm to help global corporations establish profitable businesses in India, and provides services including entry strategy, approvals, sales & business development, local partnerships, product launches, and brand establishment.

Mr. Sandip Ganguli is a seasoned senior hotelier and real estate developer with decades of experience in hotel operations and construction across India. He has worked closely with leading global hotel brands and was instrumental in introducing Four Seasons to India. He was also on the Board of the joint venture with Keppel Land, Singapore, for a two million square feet luxury residential development at Newtown, Kolkata. He continues to develop luxury real estate, and owns and operates an organic farm on the outskirts of Auroville.

About The Indian Hotels Company Limited

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) and its subsidiaries bring together a group of brands and businesses that offer a fusion of warm Indian hospitality and world-class service. These include Taj – the iconic brand for the most discerning travellers and ranked as World's Strongest Hotel Brand 2024 and India’s Strongest Brand 2024 as per Brand Finance; SeleQtions, a named collection of hotels; Vivanta, sophisticated upscale hotels; Gateway, full-service hotels designed to be your gateway to exceptional destinations and Ginger, which is revolutionising the lean luxe segment.

Incorporated by the founder of the Tata Group, Jamsetji Tata, the Company opened its first hotel - The Taj Mahal Palace, in Bombay in 1903. IHCL has a portfolio of 340 hotels including 112 under development globally across 4 continents, 13 countries and in over 130 locations. The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) is India’s largest hospitality company by market capitalization. It is listed on the BSE and NSE.