-NewsDesk(cbedit@imaws.org)
In a sad announcement on Tuesday, the Oberoi Group revealed the peaceful passing of Prithvi Raj Singh Oberoi, affectionately known as ‘Biki,’ Chairman Emeritus of The Oberoi Group. A stalwart in the Indian hospitality industry, Oberoi’s visionary leadership forever transformed the landscape of luxury hotels.
Born on February 3, 1929, in Delhi, Oberoi was the son of the late Rai Bahadur MS Oberoi, the visionary founder of The Oberoi Group. Educated at St. Paul’s School in Darjeeling and a graduate of Hotel Management from Lausanne, Switzerland, Oberoi played a pivotal role in putting India’s first five-star hotel on the global map.
Assuming the role of Chairman of EIH Limited in 2002 after his father’s demise, Oberoi held the position of CEO until 2013, steering the Oberoi brand to become synonymous with fine luxury hotels. Forbes currently estimates his net worth at $460 million.
Oberoi’s impact was not confined to corporate success; he was instrumental in pioneering the development of Oberoi Hotels and Resorts globally. Luxury establishments in Mauritius, Indonesia, Egypt, and renowned tourist destinations in India testify to his global influence. His leadership also led to the establishment of The Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development in Delhi in 1967.
Accolades for Oberoi are numerous, including the Padma Vibhushan in 2008, India’s second-highest civilian honor. He received the Lifetime Achievement Award at ILTM and the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, earning him the title of the “Founding Father of Modern Luxury Hospitality in India.”
The Oberoi Group acknowledged Oberoi’s unwavering dedication and pursuit of excellence, stating, “As we mourn the loss of a true icon, we also aim to celebrate the extraordinary legacy PRS Oberoi leaves behind.” The cremation is scheduled at the Bhagwanti Oberoi Charitable Trust, Oberoi Farm, Kapashera, starting at 4 pm on Tuesday. The Oberoi Group plans to share details of their commemorative plans in the coming days.
In reflection of his impact, the hospitality industry mourns the loss of a visionary leader, acknowledging Oberoi’s influence beyond corporate success, touching the lives of countless hoteliers through mentorship and a commitment to unparalleled standards.
