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JAIPUR / GULF TIME
By Arunima Mishra
The Indian state of Rajasthan’s capital city has a plethora of intricate architecture, history, handicrafts, textiles, and traditional food paradise. Jaipur, also known as India’s ‘pink city,’ is a tourist hub with many international carriers flying directly to the city. Then there’s also The Leela Palace Jaipur, surrounded by the majestic Aravalis mountain range, about a 30-minute drive from the centre of the historic capital city of Jaipur, which is unique!
On arrival at this historic hotel in the heart of India, the Leela property not only greets guests with a traditional Rajasthani welcome, including a shower of rose petals but there’s more to this flower story.
In its commitment to a circular economy, The Leela Palace Jaipur has partnered with Phool to transform florals adorning its properties at the end-of-their-life into something extraordinary. Using Phool’s innovative ‘Flowercycling’ technology that integrates principles of the circular economy, the property upcycles these flowers into charcoal-free incense sticks and cones that do not produce harmful toxins when burnt, reducing waste and eliminating pollutants.
Infused with Tishya by The Leela, its signature fragrance inspired by India’s national lotus and the rare Neelakurinji flower that blooms once in 12 years, these products also offer an immersive sensory experience.
This initiative not only reduces floral waste but also supports the preservation of the Ganges, as flowers once destined for disposal are given new life. Beyond environmental stewardship, Leela Ke Phool empowers over 300 women artisans from marginalised communities in Uttar Pradesh, providing them with sustainable livelihoods. Through this initiative, The Leela continues to redefine luxury, creating a positive, lasting impact on both people and the planet.
This initiative extends beyond environmental impact; it empowers women entrepreneurs, trained to meticulously craft these incense products, they play a crucial role in our journey towards conscious luxury. By supporting Phool, The Leela transcends traditional notions of waste management, contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive future.
‘Time travel with The Leela’
The unique dining experience at Mohan Mahal is filled with traditional jharokha/mirror work, which reflects the countless candles, as this dining experience is all about natural ‘candlelight’. This heritage craft of Thikri is as old as 400 years if the folklores are anything to go by! And the ultra-luxurious restaurant is a tribute to the grand Sheesh Mahal at Amer Fort in Jaipur.
Mohan Mahal is a dining experience like no other. As one approaches via the airy pavilions at The Leela Palace Jaipur, decorated with marble fountains, it feels like a lyrical ode to the Sheesh Mahal of India’s historic Amer fort.
This regal-looking restaurant captures the essence of traditional Rajasthani architecture, adorned with arches and mirrors meticulously arranged with precision. Oozing modern palatial grandeur, with The Leela’s skilled chefs narrating the origins of each culinary masterpiece served on the plate, there’s unmissable attention to detail in everything this place offers. Not to forget the specially designed silver thalis (at Mohan Mahal), the thoughtful positioning of rose petals during the spa sessions, yoga and the curated puppet shows and pottery workshops for kids infused with Indian handicrafts — perhaps justify the ‘Time Travel With The Leela’ campaign, aptly with the property’s opulent décor at its finest.
The Royal Connect
As a hospitality brand that is committed to showcasing India’s rich heritage and cultural tapestry through its signature luxury experiences, The Leela remains committed towards preserving India’s storied past and create meaningful experiences that allow us to connect with our guests through their passions.
Through its Icons of India by The Leela initiative, the property has collaborated with inspirational Indians — achievers from different walks of life who have placed India on a global platform — to help Leela tell these stories.
As part of this initiative, the Leela welcomed Maharaja Sawai Padmanabh Singh of Jaipur — a globally acclaimed polo player, a connoisseur of art, culture, and a style icon, as well as Princess Gauravi Kumari — a famous name in all things fashion, lifestyle and art to Icons of India by The Leela. Such associations signify The Leela’s shared values and vision, according to a statement by
the property. The Leela Palace Jaipur celebrates its association with the Jaipur Royal Family, a partnership that adds unparalleled authenticity and regality to the experiences offered to the guests. Through this collaboration, The Leela has curated exclusive experiences that provides an insider access and a glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal heritage and culture, creating memories that resonate with grandeur and exclusivity to the guests of The Leela.
It’s all about letting guests from faraway lands feel a tinge of the revered ‘Rajputana legacy’ of India!