From Suresh Nanda–owned Claridges Group of Hotels to IHCL, here are some hotel chains that came out as ‘hospitality heroes’ amid the crisis
The coronavirus pandemic has certainly changed the world as we know it – from lifestyle of individuals and collective behaviour of society to operations of major businesses. Among the sectors that have been severely hit is the hospitality, which generates around 9 percent of employment opportunities in India. With demands falling off due to restricted movements and everyone abiding by social distancing measures, the sector has been grappling to stay afloat. However, despite the adversities, it is commendable to see industry leaders stepping up to do their bid for helping the underprivileged in their fight against the pandemic.
Sarovar Hotels and Resorts for instance has initiated the manufacturing and distribution of Covid-preventive masks. “We are taking fresh linen from half a dozen properties and those are being made into masks,” said Ajay Bakaya, Managing Director of the chain of hotels. In addition to this, it has also organised 500 free meals per day at its branch in Chandigarh.
Similarly, Chairman of Claridges Group of Hotels, Suresh Nanda has recently tied up with several NGOs and similar organisations to distribute food to the marginalised and underprivileged communities which have been severely impacted by the nationwide lockdown. Adding to his long list of humanitarian deeds yet again is the accommodation he has been providing to Indians returning from abroad at the luxury 286 room Surajkund Hotel established by him. The hospitality magnate has been doing every bit to give his hand to those in need during this unprecedented situation.
However since it is the poor, needy and the daily wage workers who have been bearing the brunt of the lockdown, the hotel entrepreneur expressed his deepest concerns and sympathies towards them. Considering the vulnerability of employees at this point of time, Suresh Nanda stated that Claridges has been doing its best to help the staff members in dealing with the current crisis in every way it can, irrespective of their job positions.
In addition to Claridges and Sarovar, others hospitality chains like the JW Marriott Aerocity have been distributing over 500 cooked meal boxes every day to the underprivileged, coronavirus-hit victims. On the other hand, hotel chains like ITC and IHCL have allocated special hotel rooms for the quarantining suspected patients or anyone from medical fraternity.
With the number of cases crossing one lakh in India, the problem not only lies in the pandemic alone, what is worse is rather the increasing fear, anxiety and terror. Therefore, during such times, our responsibility goes beyond merely abiding by the preventive measures and safeguarding our health. As responsible global citizens, we have an intrinsic duty towards mankind, which at this point of time, is reaching out to those who have been affected by the pandemic, in any way that we can.
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