A decade of unmatched hospitality excellence

What began as a mere establishment has woven itself into the fabric of the city, becoming a beloved destination for both locals and travellers. Nestled in Kolkata, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences has steadily established itself as a cornerstone of hospitality over the last one decade. As the hotel celebrates its 10th anniversary, the lobby narrates stories of celebrations, heartfelt reunions and the legends who have graced its halls – Pele, Maradona and AR Rahman among them.

“As we celebrate a decade of excellence at Novotel Kolkata, we reflect on our journey marked by growth and our pursuit of hospitality excellence,” says General Manager Arjun Kaggallu, capturing the essence of a place that has not only evolved but thrived amidst the evolving landscape of hospitality. The hotel, like the huge metropolis it inhabits, has developed to reflect its guests’ ideas and aspirations, ranging from opulent weddings to corporate retreats and everything in between.

Novotel Kolkata Hotel & Residences

Milestones and evolving facilities
Novotel Kolkata has charted an impressive journey, marked by significant milestones and a commitment to excellence in hospitality. “Our renovated Eiffel Ballroom and expansive venues have enhanced our reputation for hosting spectacular events,” Kaggallu remarks proudly. Moreover, the hotel’s commitment to sustainability, through measures like zero plastic usage and in-house bottled water, underscores its role as a responsible player in the industry.

With an expansive banqueting space that spans 30,000 sq ft, Novotel Kolkata is poised to meet the evolving expectations of its guests. “Our spaces are continually upgraded for various events, from intimate gatherings to large conferences,” shares Kaggallu.

Boardroom at Novotel Kolkata

A culinary destination
The GM highlights the hotel’s culinary excellence with initiatives like the Ministry of Kebabs and Speak Burgers, positioning the property as a culinary leader. “Each outlet within the hotel is designed to cater to a diverse range of tastes. The Square, an all-day dining spot, focusses on international cuisine with interactive live kitchens showcasing fresh, diverse dishes,” he says. Café Joy provides casual comfort with freshly brewed coffee and gourmet pastries, while Speak Burgers, created by Chef Vicky Ratnani, offers indulgent burgers with bold flavours. This blend of innovation and tradition positions Novotel Kolkata as a culinary beacon in the city.

Café Joy at Novotel Kolkata

Balancing efficiency and shifting preferences
Kaggallu emphasises on the importance of empowering team members and cultivating a culture where they are trained and motivated to enhance guest experiences. By leveraging technology and maintaining a continuous feedback loop, he ensures the hotel delivers exceptional service without losing the personal touch that defines its hospitality. Kaggallu mentions, “Seamless digital journey with online check-ins, digital room keys, and a user-friendly app are among the hotel’s innovative offerings aimed at enhancing guest convenience. Initiatives centred around wellness, family-friendly services, and personalised guest experiences demonstrate a commitment to catering to today's discerning guests.”

Presidential Suite at Novotel Kolkata

Navigating trends, challenges and future initiatives
As the hospitality industry continues to transform, Kaggallu observes several emerging trends. “Guest demand for sustainable tourism is reshaping the industry,” he remarks, underscoring Novotel Kolkata’s commitment to reducing carbon footprints. Moreover, changing consumer preferences for personalised experiences and wellness travel are set to redefine the future. However, he acknowledges challenges like balancing sustainability with cost and managing rapid technological advancements.

Looking to the future, the hotel is set to enhance guest experiences through several key initiatives. Kaggallu envisions a focus on sustainability, digital transformation for improved guest interactions, and innovative culinary collaborations. “These initiatives aim to elevate guest experiences and set new industry standards,” he notes.

Pool view rooftop at Novotel Kolkata

Leadership insights and guidance
Reflecting on his extensive experience across continents, Kaggallu shares how his diverse background has influenced his management style. “My career across continents has profoundly shaped my management style at Novotel Kolkata,” he remarks, emphasising on the importance of adaptability and inclusivity in leadership. Ultimately, he finds the most rewarding aspect of his journey in the hospitality sector to be the connections he has formed with people. “The beauty of this industry lies in dealing with people and emotions daily. The joy comes from learning from everyone and adding value to their lives,” he expresses, offering valuable advice to aspiring leaders that is to prioritise health, focus on the process instead of results, and concentrate on self-improvement rather than comparison.

Nikita Meshram

BW Reporters