For two decades, The LaLiT Mumbai has set benchmarks in luxury, inclusivity, and conscious hospitality. The hotel blends Indian warmth with global standards—welcoming guests with empathy, integrity, and innovation. Nishchint Pathania, General Manager of the property, talks about inclusive practices that continues to evolve with purpose, celebrating a hospitality legacy.
Looking back, what are some of the biggest milestones for The LaliT Mumbai over the past two decades?
The past two decades have seen The LaLiT Mumbai achieve several landmark milestones. Hosting some of the most eminent national and international personali
ties and being among the few luxury hotels in the country that actively promote inclusivity and diversity have been both enriching and inspiring for us. One of our proudest moments was being among the first luxury properties in Mumbai to employ LGBTQIA+ persons, reflecting our belief in equal opportunity for all. The launch of our ‘We Serve What We Grow’ farm-to-table initiative further reinforced our commitment to sustainability and conscious hospitality. Another significant milestone was celebrating the 10th anniversary of Kitty Su Mumbai, our iconic nightclub that has become a symbol of expression, acceptance and individuality. These achievements are more than just accolades – they are a reflection of the values that define The LaLiT Mumbai.
How has the hospitality landscape in Mumbai evolved in the last 20 years, and how has The LaLiT Mumbai adapted to those changes?
The hospitality landscape in Mumbai has seen a significant shift, with a growing wave of Gen Z travellers following the millennial trend. We’ve responded to these changing dynamics with agility – integrating technology into every touchpoint of the guest experience, reimagining culinary offerings with a greater focus on health and wellness, and infusing contemporary design and storytelling across our spaces. Throughout this evolution, we’ve remained rooted in the soul of Indian hospitality, while consistently innovating to meet the expectations of today’s discerning travellers.
What are some of the industry leadership values or practices you believe have helped the hotel stay relevant and beloved for two decades?
With three core values guiding us, we uphold: Empathy, Integrity, and Inclusion. We lead with heart, not only when serving guests but also with regard to our team members. Transparent leadership, thorough and regular training for our teams, and upholding the core values have sustained loyalty from guests, employees, and business partners. Above all, by taking proud, brave stands for gender equity, championing employment for transgender individuals or supporting acid attack warriors through #PureLove philosophy, our commitment extends beyond employment, reflecting itself into the ethos of all guest experiences at the property.
What are some of the signature experiences or services that have defined The LaLiT Mumbai’s hospitality over the years?
Our guests often speak of the warmth that defines their experience at The LaLiT Mumbai. The hotel features India’s largest atrium lobby, houses a unique collection of Indian art within its precincts and has been a pioneer in advocating for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in the hospitality industry. With signature restaurants and exceptional culinary experiences, we have firmly established our place on India’s gastronomic map.
Enhancing this already remarkable offering is Spiceology – The Spa, which blends the ancestral wisdom of spices with modern chemistry to deliver wellness rooted in India’s rich heritage.
How does the Mumbai property reflect inclusive practices on-ground?
The LaLiT Mumbai takes immense pride in its pioneering role in promoting inclusivity. We actively employ team members from marginalized communities including LGBTQIA+ individuals, persons with disabilities, neurodivergent individuals and acid attack warriors. This commitment goes beyond employment – it is deeply woven into the fabric of our guest experience. One of our most inspiring team members is our resident pianist, who is visually impaired and continues to captivate guests with his extraordinary talent. We are also proud to offer The LaLiT’s signature welcome in Indian Sign Language, reinforcing our belief that hospitality should be warm, respectful, and inclusive for all.
How is the property celebrating this 20-year milestone with guests, staff, and the community?
It’s a moment of pride and gratitude, and we’re celebrating it in a way that brings everyone together. We have designed special dining experiences, specially priced stay packages and community engagement activities. There is also outreach to old guests and clients, inviting them to share tales with us within the 20 Years of Love & Hospitality story series.
Kitty Su Mumbai has become an iconic space in the city’s nightlife. What role has it played in shaping the hotel’s cultural relevance?
Kitty Su has ushered in an era where nightlife and inclusivity coexist. Over the past decade, it has grown into something much more than just a club, it is an inclusive haven and a space for uninhibited self-expression. Kitty Su has welcomed legendary drag queens such as Violet Chachki, Alaska Thunderfuck, Laganja Estranja, Elista, and Rani Ko-He-Nur, while also serving as a platform for budding artists from across the country to showcase their talent and find their voice. Its #PURELOVE nights continue to celebrate identity, creativity and freedom in an electrifying and safe environment. Kitty Su reflects our belief that true hospitality is about creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard and free to be their authentic selves.
What’s your vision for The LaLiT Mumbai for the next 5 to 10 years? How do you see the brand evolving in the city?
The next decade is about evolving with purpose. As we look to the future, we will continue to offer ‘Distinctly LaLiT’ experiences, where tradition and modernity coexist. We are looking ahead to revolutionizing luxury while staying true to our core values of celebrating cultures, embracing inclusivity and championing sustainability. As part of this vision, we are integrating cutting-edge technology across our hotels to ensure seamless check-ins, personalized services and an enhanced overall guest journey. In the near future, more experiential offerings, tech-driven upgrades and culinary innovations are set to be unveiled.
