STANDING BY INDIAN ART

Pinky Reddy is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, the former national president of FICCI Ladies Organisation, and an art connoisseur. Along with her husband GVK scion Sanjay Reddy, she has played a big role in promoting Indian art and heritage. In an interview with CHIRAG MOHANTY SAMAL , Reddy reveals what makes India a unique luxury destination and how her fondness for travel landed her one of her biggest appointments.

- CHIRAG MOHANTY SAMAL

When we talk about India as a luxury destination, what aspects of our country do you feel need to be showcased?

We have such hidden jewels in our country, we need to really reveal them. It’s sad that we haven’t yet been able to really show them to the world. Rajasthan and its palaces are beautiful, but everyone knows about them. There are other beautiful places and homes in Goa and Kerala that no one knows about. I am glad now a lot of people are offering their homes to guests. This way one gets to sample local food, culture and also experience the luxury of a five-star hotel. Big hotels [chains] are passé now.

You have travelled all over the world, what is it about India that makes it unique?

It’s our culture, clothes, and food. For instance, if you go to France, you get the same food everywhere, it is the same with Italy. But in India, every region has its unique food. India is also picking up the world’s cuisine. Our chefs are creating interesting fusion cuisine by adding nuances of Western dishes into Indian food. Also, no one can match up to Indian hospitality.