Luxury with a Conscience: A Night at “Rhythm of the Earth” Concert at The Leela Palace Jaipur

Luxury hotels usually conjure images of fluffy bathrobes and overflowing minibars, not exactly beacons of environmental responsibility. But The Leela is shattering that stereotype.

Recently, I had the privilege of attending their “Rhythm of the Earth” concert, a unique event that blended luxury with sustainability. This wasn’t your typical hotel soiree – it was a three-time Grammy Award winner taking center stage! Ricky Kej, a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador, brought his soulful music to The Leela Palaces across India, with each stop highlighting the beauty of nature and the importance of protecting it. The exclusivity of the concert was a treat. Ricky Kej, accompanied by a group of talented musicians, captivated the audience with his music. Visuals depicted the natural world and India’s rich heritage danced across the backdrop, creating a truly immersive spectacle.

The Leela took their commitment to sustainability a step further with a specially curated “Aujasya by The Leela” menu – a wellness-inspired feast for all attendees across the four participating hotels. It felt good to indulge while knowing my indulgence supported a good cause. Speaking of causes, proceeds from the concert went to the Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation (KSCF), an organization that protects children and promotes education.

Sharad Puri, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts’ visionary leader, recently sat down with us to discuss the inspiration behind the captivating “Rhythm of the Earth” concert series.

Q: What sparked the collaboration between The Leela and Ricky Kej for these concerts?

Sharad Puri: It stemmed from a shared vision. We wanted to create an experience that transcends entertainment, highlighting the profound connection between nature, music, and the community. This immersive series isn’t just a concert; it’s a journey that resonates deeply with sustainability and the natural world. Ricky Kej, a three-time Grammy winner and UN Goodwill Ambassador, aligns perfectly with The Leela’s ethos. His music champions global impact and environmental causes, mirroring our commitment to purposeful living and responsible luxury.

Q: Can you elaborate on the future of this series?

Sharad Puri: Absolutely! You can expect intimate performances from award-winning artists who champion environmental causes. It’s a celebration of artistic expression, but also a powerful statement of The Leela’s dedication to environmental stewardship and community support. The proceeds from these concerts will be donated to the Kailash Satyarthi Children’s Foundation, a cause we deeply believe in. Our partnership has already created 11 child-friendly villages in Rajasthan, impacting thousands of lives.

Q: How does the “Rhythm of the Earth” theme translate to dining experiences at The Leela?

Sharad Puri: We’ve embraced this theme through our “Aujasya by The Leela” program. Rooted in the concept of “vigour of life,” Aujasya offers a holistic approach to wellness dining, aligning perfectly with our environmental commitment. Developed with Dr. Ankita Jalori, a leading Indian nutritionist, Aujasya menus emphasize nutritious, guilt-free eating without compromising on flavor. We focus on balanced nutrition using local, seasonal ingredients – celebrating our rich culinary heritage while promoting sustainability. By minimizing our carbon footprint and prioritizing local produce, we ensure a delicious and diverse dining experience.

Q: Beyond dining, what specific sustainability measures are The Leela Hotels implementing?

Sharad Puri: At The Leela Palace Jaipur, for example, we’ve taken significant steps to reduce our carbon footprint, promote guest wellness, and contribute to the community. We have our own in-house water bottling plant to eliminate single-use plastics, and we utilize solar energy to reduce our environmental impact. We’ve also installed an EV charging station and offer eco-friendly bath amenities crafted with natural extracts and packaged in recyclable materials. We upcycle floral waste and even collaborate with Jodhpur Mahila Griha Udhyog, an organization empowering underprivileged women, to source housekeeping bags.

Q: How do you engage guests in these sustainability efforts?

Sharad Puri: One way is through our “Leela ki Dharohar” evening ritual. This sundowner experience immerses guests in Rajasthani culture, connecting them with the local community and rich heritage. Guests engage with artisans, participate in traditional crafts, and enjoy cultural performances. “Leela ki Dharohar” fosters a deep connection between our guests and the local community, promoting cultural sustainability and enriching their stay.