The Capital City's Boutique Experience

Madhav Sehgal, the general manager of Andaz Delhi, powers the luxury brand that has attempted to redefine city experiences and what hotels offer business travellers, in exciting new ways

What led you to the hospitality industry?

For me, hospitality is much more than just a career choice — it is an emotion. I grew up in New Delhi, where we have some of the most iconic hotels. Since my initial exposure to the industry was as a young guest, it fascinated and intrigued me. When I got the opportunity to embrace hospitality as a way of life, I did not hesitate.

What have been the big changes that the hospitality industry has gone through, particularly the world of luxury hotels since you first began your career?

India’s luxury hotels have evolved commendably over the last two decades. While the best luxury-leisure hotels continue to be in India, luxury business hotels in our cities continue to adapt to the global mindset. Few have been able to establish a genuine connection and understanding of the busy global traveler, who looks for sustainability, wants authentic experiences, and seamless and barrier-free interactions. This is where boutique hospitality concepts such as Andaz Delhi come in; it is establishing a clearly differentiated positioning.

Luxury is truly personal. In the past few years, the definition of luxury has evolved into much more than expensive ingredients and imported labels, limited edition wines or white-gloved service — a luxury in today’s day is about experiences. It’s about what stays back with you after the tangible product or service has been consumed — from the feel-good factor of making a difference to the community by eating a meal crafted with locally sourced ingredients or opting for a personalized curated tour of old Delhi, which is full of interactive and real experiences.

What has been your experience working within hotels in India and across the world?