Being a hotelier gave Mohit the opportunity to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, each of whom has a distinct story and set of challenges. The tenacity, inventiveness and generosity of women who manage the responsibilities of the home, family and community, however, have continuously impressed him! These extraordinary people, in his opinion, should be given the chance to flourish, develop and follow their aspirations in addition to recognition. He is committed to establishing a workplace that embraces, encourages and inspires women and homemakers to thrive in their jobs and beyond, which is why he gave an exclusive interview to THE PIONEER. Notably, the director of Ananta Hotels & Resorts has also spearheaded two noteworthy projects in Udaipur: an inventive lavender laundry project and a state-of-the-art bottling plant.
The effort to hire housewives and women is impressive. What prompted this choice?
Beyond providing luxury, my idea also aims to promote empowerment and inclusivity. In order to reshape opportunities in the hospitality business and provide doors for individuals who have historically been underrepresented, the campaign to hire women and stay-at-home moms was born. In 2005, women accounted for just 8% of our workforce. They make up 15% now and by 2026, they want to make up 25%. This change has improved our workplace culture in addition to giving women greater financial independence and opportunities for professional advancement. Our conviction that diversity is crucial to creating a better future for hospitality has been strengthened by their distinct viewpoints and commitment, which have enhanced our guests’ experiences with warmth, empathy and creativity.
You’re combining sustainable practices with powerful work with your lavender laundry initiative. Could you explain the project’s underlying concept?
The Lavender Laundry initiative is an example of the dedication to a considerate experience that blends sustainability with significant influence. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the project gives local women and stay-at-home moms jobs that allow them to become financially independent and advance in their careers. Because sustainable procedures are used to limit the process’s influence on the environment, it also fits with an eco-conscious worldview!
The hospitality business has historically been controlled by men. How have you managed to assure women’s representation at all levels?
I’m determined to dispel myths and redefine the hospitality sector as a welcoming one. Since the beginning, the ownership has placed a high priority on giving women chances since they understand how their involvement improves the teams and visitor experiences. My resolve to change the narrative is evidenced by my target of 25% female representation by 2026. We aggressively fund mentorship and training initiatives, empower women in leadership positions and maintain a positive work environment. I have personally seen improved teamwork, inventiveness and resilience as a result of promoting diversity—elements crucial for success in the cutthroat hospitality industry. The goal is very clear: empower women to empower hospitality’s future.
What difficulties do stay-at-home moms encounter when they decide to enter the workforce, in your experience?
Homemakers frequently encounter major obstacles when they return to the market, such as a lack of recent work experience, self-assurance and the ability to manage family obligations. The hotel wants to close this gap by fostering an atmosphere that supports their special abilities, such as empathy, organisation and multitasking.
The resort’s natural attractiveness is enhanced by the Aravalli Hills, which provide a picturesque backdrop for The Ananta Udaipur. How does your approach to sustainability change as a result of your connection to nature?
The Aravalli Hills serve as a constant source of inspiration and a reminder of the value of living in harmony with the natural world. The sustainability efforts, which range from installing solar energy and gravity-fed water systems to employing eco-friendly building materials, are motivated by this relationship. In order to improve biodiversity and reduce our carbon footprint, we are also committing to planting 50,000 trees in Rajasthan each year. We make sure that our visitors can enjoy the natural beauty while understanding that their stay helps to preserve it for future generations by building our resort to blend in with the hills.
While your family has a long history of hospitality, what personal legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I want to leave a legacy based on sustainability and empowerment, even though the heritage of exceptional hospitality is a source of pride. This vision is embodied in the activities, such as the aim to eliminate plastic and our goal of having 25% of women in the workforce by 2026. The ultimate test of success, in my opinion, is building a company that not only provides top-notch hospitality but also improves communities, safeguards the environment and establishes new benchmarks for social responsibility and diversity. I want my ventures to be remembered by future generations as a trailblazer of significant industry transformation.
