Rambagh Palace in Jaipur, India, built in 1835, is a breathtaking manifestation of architectural opulence and regal allure. Its Indo-Saracenic design, adorned with intricate detailing and lavish interiors, serves as a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of its time.
Now converted into a luxurious heritage hotel run by the IHCL under the Taj Group, Rambagh Palace continues to enchant guests with its majestic charm, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in timeless splendour. Recently, our MSc. in International Hospitality Business (MIHB) pilot batch had the chance to witness the beauty of this Indian royalty and learn the art of hospitality and elegance, emphasising that creating memorable experiences for guests involves more than physical accommodations.
One of our MIHB students, Kajol Agrawal, paints a captivating picture of their visit, offering us a glimpse into the charm that makes Rambagh Palace an unforgettable destination. Let’s enter the world of royalty through her lens as she shares her immersive experience at Rambagh Palace.
My first flight as a hospitality student at SP Jain Global wasn’t just a takeoff but a magical gateway to a world of Maharaja-era grandeur and culinary masterpieces. Stepping into the Rambagh Palace, a jewel in Jaipur’s crown, wasn’t just a hotel visit; it was a whirlwind ride through heritage, luxury, and the beating heart of Indian hospitality with SP Jain Global’s MIHB pilot batch of twelve students and the faculty Mrs Smita Jain (Program Director), Ms Rajpreet Brar (Industrial Relation Manager), Mrs Sibi Philip (Program Manager).
We were welcomed with a rose petal shower, jasmine garlands, and a chilled mocktail to alleviate the warmth. Following a prompt refreshment, we engaged in one-on-one sessions with key figures, including Mr Ashok Rathore (GM), Mr Rohit Gupta (DoR), Mr Pradip Kumar (SM), and Mr Raghu Deora (Chef). These sessions provided profound insights into the nuances of Indian Hospitality, highlighting the harmonious celebration of diverse cultures while emphasising our utmost priority – Guest Service.
Lunch in the Rajput Room was a delight as the silverware was tempting us, with the three-course meal served with an appetiser, followed by an entrée of Dal-Batti-Churma, concluding with a mouthwatering dessert. After a hearty mealtime, we went for a Heritage walk around the palace accompanied by the narration of a fairytale of Maharaja Sawai Man Singh II & his wife, Rani Gayatri Devi. The chariot and vintage car rides with our faculty were cherry on the cake.
An etiquette fine-dining in Suvarna Mahal with a seven-course meal in both veg and non-veg preferences menu designed for MIHB by the Chef himself showcasing his personal touch, served from amuse bouche to starter to soup to sorbet to main course to delightsome dessert was a treat for us, not to forget the folk music in verandah with the wind setting the mood to dance nothing more we can ask for.
We begin our day with blissful sunrays, enjoying the peacock dance and the happy group picture. It was an activity-filled day with Ms Jemina Th. for the wellness sessions, a walk around the spa & saloon, learning some bartending tricks with Mr Mahendra Singh (BM) alongside Mr Rajesh, the yoga instructor who enriched us with posture to exercise during our work hours & a healthy tea.
Concluding a power-packed day with Mrs Garima, L&D Head, who gave an insight into the people behind the curtains of luxury hospitality and Mrs. Indrani Gupta, General Manager of Sawai Man Mahal, walked us through the palace, where we saw the amalgamation of history with hospitality.
And with a heavy heart, the moment arrived when we cheerio to the hospitality of Rambagh Palace with the personal handwritten letter as a souvenir. This industrial visit reshaped our perspectives on luxury hospitality, leaving an indelible mark on our understanding of the industry.
