With a career spanning over a decade, Amrita Gupta – chief interior designer and Director, Manglam group, has not only left an indelible mark on the industry but has also catalysed significant change through her pioneering efforts in gender inclusivity.
With a Master’s in Sustainable Design Projects from SCAD, Atlanta, she is passionate towards the art of design and building green and sustainable real estate projects. Manglam, incidentally, is Rajasthan’s leading real estate brand with over 80 successful projects in the state. Her consistent efforts, both minor and major, are focused towards decreasing carbon emissions through various means. She has recently launched the ‘Heal My Earth’ initiative that is focused on turning a vision of developing vertical gardens in all residential and commercial units into reality.
Beyond her contributions to the Manglam group, she is a passionate advocate of gender equality within the industry. She laid the foundation of CREDAI’s women’s wing in Rajasthan and established it in 2019 to promote the inclusion of women from the state in the industry.
Gupta has emerged as a strong voice in the space with her active participation and initiatives. Over the past few years, she has worked in states like Gujarat, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh to increase the presence of women in the real estate industry. So far, she has 180+ members in CREDAI’s Rajasthan women’s wing and over 650 members in other states.
Her ability to blend diverse talents into a unified force and lead by example has been pivotal in realising the set objectives of the Manglam group and CREDAI Rajasthan Women’s Wing. As one of the pioneering woman leaders in the Indian real estate industry, she stands as a beacon of inspiration.
Excerpts from our interview with the dynamic entrepreneur on recent foray into the world of hospitality…
What prompted the Manglam group’s decision to venture into hospitality, and why now?
Manglam group has a long-standing reputation in real estate, and our decision to enter the hospitality sector is a natural progression of our growth strategy. The timing aligns with the increasing demand for quality accommodation and experiences in Jaipur, especially for destination weddings and leisure travel. By leveraging our expertise in property development, we aim to create a unique and aspirational space that meets the evolving needs of our clients while capitalising on the booming tourism market.
Why did you choose to partner with Westin Hotels for this project? How does their brand align with Manglam’s vision for hospitality?
Westin Hotels epitomises a lifestyle brand known for its excellence in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events) and luxurious offerings. Their specialisation in creating memorable experiences aligns perfectly with Manglam’s core values. Westin’s focus on wellness and sustainability resonates with our vision of developing a property that not only prioritises luxury but also champions eco-friendly practices. Moreover, Westin did not have a presence in Jaipur and we recognised a unique opportunity to collaborate with them. This partnership allows us to leverage Westin’s brand equity and operational expertise, ensuring our resort stands out in the competitive hospitality industry.
Can you share more about the investment made in this project and the expected returns?
We are investing Rs 150 crore in this resort mainly focusing on destination weddings. It is expected to be completed by February 2025. Given Jaipur’s growing reputation as the wedding capital, we anticipate strong demand which will drive our returns. As we expand our offerings, we expect significant profitability and brand recognition in the hospitality sector.
How do you envision Manglam’s new property enhancing Jaipur’s appeal for weddings?
Our resort is conceptualised to be an aspirational wedding destination. With expansive open spaces, beautifully designed cottages and state-of-the-art amenities, we aim to attract couples looking for a memorable wedding. We will enhance Jaipur’s appeal as a premier wedding destination by positioning ourselves as a unique venue that celebrates local culture and modern aesthetics.
Could you elaborate on how climate-sensitive solar passive zoning techniques have been implemented and their expected impact on energy efficiency?
The resort will incorporate solar passive zoning techniques by designing cottages that maximise natural light and airflow, minimising energy consumption. Each cottage will have solar panels that harness renewable energy, promoting energy efficiency and reducing reliance on traditional energy sources. The solar panels will not only power essential amenities but also provide a sustainable energy solution.
What other sustainability features or eco-friendly practices will be integrated into the resort’s design and operations?
Our resort will be a prime example of sustainability in hospitality. Spanning eight acres, it will have G+1 cottages that are not typical boxed buildings, allowing for expansive open spaces that blend seamlessly with nature. Each cottage will be equipped with solar panels which ensure cross-ventilation and reduce the need for artificial cooling.
Additionally, we are committed to sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting, efficient waste management systems and using locally sourced materials in construction. This large property will provide us with the opportunity for future expansion while ensuring that we maintain a strong focus on sustainability, allowing us to create a luxurious and environmentally responsible resort.
How will the resort reflect the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan while maintaining a modern, premium appeal?
The architecture and aesthetics of the resort draw inspiration from Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage, featuring traditional motifs and local craftsmanship while ensuring a contemporary design. By integrating local art and materials into the resort’s decor, we aim to honour the region’s history while appealing to modern travellers seeking luxury.
Aside from weddings, what other types of events or experiences will the resort cater to?
The resort will cater to various events, including corporate retreats, wellness retreats, family gatherings and special celebrations. Our facilities are being equipped to host conferences, meetings and team-building activities, allowing us to tap into both the leisure and business travel markets. This versatility will ensure we attract a diverse clientele, enhancing our revenue streams.
Are there any plans to expand Manglam group’s presence in the hospitality sector beyond this project?
Yes, we have ambitious expansion plans to introduce additional hotel chains in key markets in Rajasthan and beyond. It will effectively double the size of our hospitality portfolio, allowing us to serve a wider audience and meet the growing demand for high-quality accommodations.
What growth targets have you set for the hospitality vertical, and how do you see this project contributing to your overall portfolio?
We aim to grow significantly in our hospitality vertical, targeting a total investment of Rs 1,000 crore in the next five years and collaborating with international luxurious brands at multiple locations in Jaipur. This project is a cornerstone for our strategy, establishing a strong brand presence in the hospitality market and positioning Manglam group as a key player in the industry. Through this venture, we expect to create a sustainable revenue model that contributes positively to our overall group.
