World's First Handicrafts Hotel Launches in India

THE PALM Beach Hotel, a sister concern of LeSutra, Mumbai, opened the doors to its heritage wing, the Andhra Arts and Crafts Hotel today. The new wing, a ‘Microcosm of Andhra’ in itself, boasts around 70 sculptures and 50 art installations that weave in the narrative of Andhra’s arts and crafts within the passages, corridors and residential areas of the hotel, making it the world’s first handicrafts hotel.

Le Sutra Hotel, the World’s first Indian Art Hotel based in Mumbai, is designed on the threegunas or qualities as defined by ancient Indian philosophy, namely - Tamas, Rajas and Satva.Each room in the hotel is a unique representation of the three gunas giving guests a never before seen experience. The Andhra Arts & Crafts Hotel is Le Sutra’s third landmark project, which aims to preserve and bring forth the local craftsmanship of Andhra Pradesh, the other two being the world’s first Indian Art Hotel and Tribal Art Homes.

Designed exclusively by Andhra national award winning artisans, interior designers, craftsmen and sculptors the property for the very first time has all its rooms themed on craft forms likeTholu Bommalata or leather shadow puppetry, Budithi brass work, Kalamkari pen art andEtikoppaka toys to create an evolved aesthetic expression encompassing the #HeartofAndhra.

The hotel promises to be a unique destination not only for leisure but also for business and corporate travellers looking for an experience after boardroom hours. Some of the amenities provided by the hotel include a secure private beach which is open 24/7, an outdoor swimming pool and four in house restaurants; Dusk – A Lounge Bar, Masala Mafia, Mafia Bar and Sea Deck where guests can indulge in some speciality cuisines. To enhance the Andhra experience, the Hotel has also curated a special Andhra cuisine exclusive to the Andhra Arts & Crafts Hotel guests, additionally each guest is presented with a souvenir at the end of their stay that represents the art and craft of Andhra. The Hotel is also looking to add an Andhra Crafts gift shop with artefacts curated from local artists and craftsmen.

Mitali Bajaj, Spokesperson, Le Sutra said “With the Andhra Arts & Crafts Hotel our aim is to create the #HeartofAndhra within Vizag and give our guests a curated experience of Andhra Pradesh. By purposefully using an assemblage of traditional and modern handicrafts in the interiors, the hotel not only pays tribute to the cultural heritage of one of India’s magnificent states but also preserves the legacy of its artisans. The Indian consumer today is well-informed and always on the lookout for new and unique experiences, be it a leisure or business trip. The Andhra Arts & Crafts Hotel serves as such a destination with its unique proposition.”

With the additional 24 boutique rooms, the property has joined the ranks of 50 art hotels the world over. And also, holds its uniqueness by being the only handicrafts hotel in the world.