Devendra Parulekar Founder, Saffron Stays Devendra Parulekar is a representation of a fresh breath of air in the hospitality industry, with a brand that is digitally forward and understands the needs of tired city dwellers longing for a break. SaffronStays.com has expanded its offerings with premium properties across the country since its relatively recent start. Parulekar, who started the website while still at his day job in EY, bet big on his venture and has had a great journey since then. Parulekar’s idea of luxury is very attached to his brand’s outlook, “When we built out SaffronStays there were two central promises that we were looking at, The promise of privacy and the fact that we were located in these private villas and estates which are completely cut-off from the rest of the world. To me, I think the morning that you wake up and have a lazy breakfast, the evenings you sit around a verandah with your friends and have a lovely glass of whiskey while seeing the lake amidst moonrise … that image is luxury.” His take on work-life balance on the way to success, “Being in the moment and ensuring there are “Luxebook is one of the finest compendiums of India’s finest homegrown luxury brands, a defining way Indians are consuming luxury products in this country.” no distractions at that moment is the trick to work-life balance. So maybe from Monday to Friday, my priority is work, but Saturday to Sunday my priority is family.” The consummate traveller considers a yacht his favourite vehicle of choice, and he just lost his dearest possession, an Omega watch! His favourite drink of choice really depends on where he’s then, “On a weekday it is a cuba libre, on a weekend it’s a whiskey sour. If I am travelling, it completely depends on where I am.” Digraj Singh Shahpura In an industry that is often perceived as traditional and established, Digraj Singh Shahpura is a man who has approached luxury hospitality differently. His entrepreneurial prowess has propelled his erstwhile royal family to become the only branch of the Shahpura clan to establish a remarkable chain of hotels. He stands today with an empire of 16 hotels across India, with UAE and Southeast Asia in the works. Shahpura Hotels and Resorts has rapidly gained momentum and garnered immense admiration. The brand’s emphasis on local experiences, tasteful Shekhawati interiors, regional cuisine, and impeccable service standards has captivated discerning travellers worldwide. His personal favourite drink is the signature mocktail from his hotel! Digraj’s dearest possession is the sword of Rao Shekha Ji, his ancestor. His love for heritage shows in his hotels, a beacon of heritage preservation with Shahpura House and Shahpura Haveli, in the list of Historical Hotels of the World. Shahpura House, adjudged a Luxury Heritage Hotel by the World Luxury Hotel Awards in 2018 and the “Dare to dream big. Have a clear vision, stay focused and work hard to achieve.” World Travel Awards in 2023, exemplifies the brand’s commitment to preserving India’s rich heritage and traditions. The Shahpura Royal Family has made significant contributions to their community. Through the establishment of the Rani Ratna Kumari Foundation (RRKF), they have led transformative initiatives focused on women’s empowerment, skill development, heritage restoration, and children’s education. Entrepreneur and Founder, Shahpura Hotels and Shahpura Collections 60 | | 61
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