A luxurious ode to cinematic heritage and modern elegance

Mumbai, India’s financial capital, boasts a range of top hospitality chains, but the recently opened Aurika, Mumbai Skycity stands out. The country’s largest inventory hotel, offers a unique blend of cinematic charm and modern luxury. With a prime location near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Aurika offers a distinct and memorable experience. Let me share more about the unique hospitality experience.

A tribute to Mumbai’s cinematic and architectural legacy

Stepping into Aurika, Mumbai Skycity, is like stepping back in time to the glamorous 1940s and 50s. The hotel’s interiors are deeply inspired by Mumbai’s rich heritage, drawing on the city’s mid-century modern architecture and the golden era of Hindi cinema. Ritu Ranjan, Senior Vice President of Aesthetics and Design, Lemon Tree Hotels, explains, “The city’s iconic buildings from decades past exude a timeless charm, characterised by functional forms and elegant simplicity. This architectural style, combined with the glamour and nostalgia of classic Hindi films, fuelled my vision for the hotel.”

The vintage charm is palpable, making it a haven for film enthusiasts and art lovers alike. Specially commissioned artworks and maritime-inspired fabrics further reflect Mumbai’s connection to the sea and its environmental context, creating interiors that are both culturally rich and environmentally conscious.

The Lobby

Where elegance meets comfort

Managing such a vast inventory of 699 rooms while maintaining consistent quality could be challenging, but Harkaran Singh, the General Manager, explains, “We believe in creating experiences that go beyond the unusual. Our service levels are designed to ensure comfort, quality, and consistency for all guests.”

Elegantly designed rooms and suites feature spacious layouts and sophisticated décor. Ritu Ranjan adds, “We aimed to seamlessly blend mid-century modern elements with subtle local influences, creating an atmosphere that evokes Mumbai’s cinematic history while maintaining an elegant international feel.” Each room, from the Deluxe King Room to the expansive Presidential Suite, is adorned with specially curated artwork and high-tech amenities. The subtle reflection of Mumbai’s maritime heritage in the decor creates an invigorating atmosphere that merges modernity with nostalgia. Whether you opt for a room with a pool view or the grandeur of the Presidential Suite, every stay promises a rejuvenating experience.

Aurika Mumbai Skycity’s wellness and recreational facilities ensure guests leave refreshed and rejuvenated. Araya Spa, the serene spa and salon offer a range of authentic Indian and international therapies, promising a rejuvenating experience for body, mind, and soul. Guests can stay energised with a workout at the well-equipped Fitness Center. Also, the swimming pool at level 1, along with the pool bar and deck, makes for the ideal spot to lounge through the day. You can spend a few languid hours here over refreshing drinks and delicious appetisers.

Aurika Suite

Culinary delights

Aurika, Mumbai Skycity offers diverse culinary experiences catering to every palate. Mirasa features global cuisines in both à-la-carte and extensive buffet options. The expert chefs design buffet menus based on the in-house guest mix, ensuring a fresh and innovative dining experience while maintaining high standards. “We have a robust guest experience management system that records guest preferences, allowing us to proactively delight repeat guests with their favorite dishes,” explains Singh. “The brand promise of going beyond the unusual is central to all our food & beverage experiences at the hotel,” he adds.

In addition to Mirasa, guests can enjoy Tea Lounge and Ariva. The Tea Lounge at the lobby level is an ideal stopover for sweet and savory light bites, Mumbai local delicacies, signature chai, and freshly brewed coffee. “Our in-house bakery offers a variety of baked treats and cakes. Our Bakery Chef is happy to curate cakes and desserts as per guests’ requirements, while our Halwai Chef innovates with Indian sweets,” claims the General Manager. Ariva, the bar, is the perfect venue to unwind and enjoy uniquely crafted cocktails, complemented by delicious tapas and finger foods. Ariva is an inviting destination for guests before or after dining at Mirasa.

The combination of these three outlets, with their distinct decor, ambiences, and menus, ensures that every guest has a tailor-made experience suited to their preferences.

The Pool

Events and celebrations

Aurika, Mumbai Skycity, is the ideal venue for any event, from grand weddings to intimate dinners. The event spaces are designed to offer a distinct and exclusive experience, featuring a separate arrival experience, entry gate, porch, banquet reception, pre-function area, and event spaces. The convention center provides a seamless experience for all events, without impacting other guests. With 1,800 sq. meters of banquet space, including the expansive Ekaara ballroom and versatile meeting rooms, the hotel provides a stunning backdrop for all occasions.

“Our MICE studio, where our event planning team collaborates with chefs and event services, helps us understand and meet guests’ expectations through empathy chats and showcasing our concepts,” Singh explains. “One of our most memorable events was hosting the prelim events for the 71st Miss World pageant, including Talent Selection and Beauty with a Purpose, at our ballroom, Ekaara,” he adds.

Ariva, The Bar

Embracing art and culture

Aurika, Mumbai Skycity actively promotes art and culture by hosting regular events and exhibitions, showcasing works by local and international artists. These events offer guests unique opportunities to engage with the art community and enjoy thought-provoking exhibitions. Whether you’re an art connoisseur or simply appreciate creativity, these cultural experiences add a unique dimension to your stay at Aurika.

On how the art pieces enhance the overall guest experience Ritu Ranjan shares, “The art serves to beautify the spaces and tell a story, connecting guests to Mumbai’s vibrant history and cultural legacy. By integrating art into the hotel’s design, we create a unique and immersive atmosphere, making each stay beyond the unusual.”

The Tea Lounge

Commitment to sustainability

Aurika, Mumbai Skycity adheres to the ESG standards of Lemon Tree Hotels, implementing eco-friendly practices such as energy-efficient systems, water conservation, and waste management. The hotel’s green building certification by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) underscores its commitment to environmental sustainability and community well-being. Ritu Ranjan highlights, “Incorporating nature and environmental elements was crucial.  Specially commissioned artworks and maritime-inspired fabrics reflect Mumbai’s connection to the sea and its environmental context. My goal was to offer guests a unique, culturally rich experience by combining artistic expression that celebrates the city’s past in a contemporary setting, with a commitment to sustainability and eco-friendliness.” This approach makes the hotel not just a place to stay, but a destination that honours Mumbai’s heritage while promoting environmental consciousness.

Experience the essence of Aurika

At Aurika, Mumbai Skycity, luxury is redefined through thoughtful design, exceptional service, and a deep connection to the city’s heritage. Whether you’re here to work, play, or relax, the hotel’s inspiring spaces and attentive staff ensure a stay that goes beyond the expected, delivering an experience that is truly beyond the unusual.

Bhuvanesh Khanna

BW Reporters Bhuvanesh Khanna is the CEO, BW Communities