Hospitality icon Prithvi Raj Singh Oberoi passes away at 94

• Image Credit: Google

• Nov 14, 2023 | Dhupali Das

Prithvi Raj Singh Oberoi, Chairman Emeritus of the Oberoi Group of hotels and resorts, breathed his last on Tuesday morning...

Digital Desk: Prithvi Raj Singh Oberoi, Chairman Emeritus of the Oberoi Group of hotels and resorts, breathed his last on Tuesday morning at the age of 94. The news of his demise marks the end of an era in the world of luxury hospitality.

In 2002, PRS Oberoi stepped into the role of Chairman and Director of EIH Limited, succeeding his father, the founding chairman of the Oberoi Group, Mohan Singh Oberoi. His leadership left an indelible mark on the industry, guiding EIH Limited with a steady hand until 2013. Over the years, Oberoi's astute business acumen and commitment to excellence solidified the Oberoi Group's position as a global powerhouse in the hospitality sector.

In a significant move in May 2022, Oberoi decided to step down from his position, allowing his nephew, Arjun Singh Oberoi, to take the reins as the Executive Chairman of EIH Limited. At the time, his son, Vikram Oberoi, Managing Director of Oberoi Hotels, revealed that the decision was driven by PRS Oberoi's desire to prioritize his health.

During his illustrious tenure, PRS Oberoi spearheaded the expansion of Oberoi Hotels and Resorts, strategically placing the brand on the international stage. His belief that people are the most valuable asset of any organization became a guiding principle for the Oberoi Group. This philosophy led him to establish the Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development in Delhi in 1967, demonstrating his commitment to nurturing the next generation of hospitality professionals.

In recognition of his unparalleled contributions to the industry, PRS Oberoi has received numerous awards and honors. The Padma Vibhushan in 2008, Businessman of the Year 2008 by Business India magazine, and the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards are just a few of the accolades that adorned his illustrious career.

His visionary leadership extended beyond corporate success, as he mentored countless hoteliers and set unmatched standards for the industry. In an in-memoriam release, the Oberoi Group expressed, "A visionary leader, Mr. P.R.S. Oberoi's unwavering dedication and pursuit of excellence elevated The Oberoi Group to international acclaim."

In February 2013, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award for Management by the All India Management Association (AIMA), and in 2015, he was honored among CNBC TV18's Top 15 Indian Business Icons. HOTELS magazine, in November 2010, bestowed upon him the prestigious 2010 Corporate Hotelier of the World award, recognizing him as "the founder father of modern luxury hospitality in India."

As the hospitality industry mourns the loss of a luminary, Prithvi Raj Singh Oberoi's legacy will continue to inspire and shape the future of luxury hospitality worldwide.