In the ever-evolving landscape of luxury hospitality, The Lodhi stands as an icon of understated elegance and personalized service — a property that continues to redefine contemporary Indian luxury. At the heart of this experience is Anuj Nainta, the Hotel Manager whose leadership blends operational excellence with a deep understanding of guest-centric luxury.
“For me, shaping The Lodhi’s guest experience is about going beyond the traditional idea of luxury,” he says. “Today’s travellers value relevance more than opulence, and I believe true luxury lies in personalization — in anticipating what a guest might need before they even ask.”
With over two decades in hospitality across acclaimed brands and global destinations, Mr. Nainta brings a thoughtful, people-first philosophy to managing one of Delhi’s most distinguished addresses. From curating immersive dining and wellness experiences to empowering over 380 associates who “aren’t just service providers, but storytellers,” his approach to leadership is rooted in authenticity and innovation.
In this exclusive conversation, Nainta discusses The Lodhi’s evolving definition of luxury, his vision for creating experiential and sustainable guest journeys, and how he’s steering the property to stay ahead in a market where meaningful moments matter more than grandeur.
With over two decades in hospitality, how do you envision shaping The Lodhi’s guest experience in ways that go beyond traditional luxury hospitality?
For me, shaping The Lodhi’s guest experience is about going beyond the traditional idea of luxury. Today’s travellers value relevance more than opulence, and I believe true luxury lies in personalization — in anticipating what a guest might need before they even ask. I also see wellness as an integral part of modern hospitality — creating holistic journeys that help guests feel balanced and renewed. And just as important are our people. Our associates aren’t just service providers; they’re storytellers. When we empower them to bring their own warmth and personality into what they do, every interaction becomes more meaningful.
Ultimately, our vision is for The Lodhi to be more than just a place to stay — a place that stays with you.
The Lodhi is known for its immersive and curated experiences. How do you plan to integrate innovative experiential offerings for guests, from dining to events, under your leadership?
For me, innovation in hospitality begins with imagination. Every guest interaction — whether it’s a stay, a meal, or an event — should spark a sense of discovery and delight. At The Lodhi, I want to bring that spirit alive by turning dining into an experience rather than just a meal — something that engages the senses and tells a story. We’re also exploring ways to make in-room moments more personal and memorable, whether it’s a private dinner in the cellar or a quiet breakfast by the pool.
In the end, true innovation is about creating experiences that stay with people — moments they carry with them long after they’ve left.
 Managing 380 associates is no small feat. What strategies do you use to foster a motivated, high-performing team that consistently delivers memorable guest experiences?
For me, leading 380 associates isn’t just about operations — it’s about people. I try to create a culture where everyone feels valued, trusted, and motivated to do their best. We focus on impact, not just output. Recognizing small gestures — like a thoughtful moment with a guest — really builds pride in the team. I also believe culture flows from the top. Being present on the floor and supporting during busy times sets the right example. When associates feel supported, they naturally extend that same care to our guests — and that’s what makes service truly memorable.
Having managed acclaimed restaurants and bars across Mumbai and Dubai, how do you plan to elevate The Lodhi’s F&B offerings to create signature experiences that stand out in New Delhi’s luxury hospitality scene?
I’ve learned that great dining experiences tell a story — they engage the senses and create a connection. At The Lodhi, I want to shape distinct culinary identities for each venue, bringing authenticity and innovation together. With Delhi’s cocktail culture evolving fast, The Lodhi should lead that wave with a standout bar experience. Ultimately, my goal is to make The Lodhi a culinary landmark — a place where people come not just to dine, but to discover something new every time.
What metrics or approaches do you consider most important to measure and enhance guest satisfaction in a luxury setting? Can you share any innovative practices from your previous roles?
For me, guest satisfaction isn’t just a number — it’s really about how someone feels at every touchpoint. Our teams play a big role in that. When they take ownership, solve issues on the spot, and genuinely care, it shows. It’s about mixing insight with empathy to make every interaction feel personal and human.
With your experience overseeing multiple event venues, how do you envision creating unique, immersive events at The Lodhi that reflect both the brand’s luxury and the city’s cultural vibrancy?
Delhi is a city full of stories, and The Lodhi, with its elegant design and thoughtful spaces, is the perfect stage to tell them. Whether it’s an intimate celebration or a larger showcase, every gathering should feel both sophisticated and authentic. For me, The Lodhi shouldn’t just host events — it should set the standard for them.
How do you see technology playing a role in enhancing guest experiences at The Lodhi, while maintaining the warmth and personal touch of luxury hospitality?
I see technology as a tool to make things easier, but it should never replace the human touch. Things like personalized pre-arrival messages, smart in-room controls, or instant feedback systems are helpful, but what really matters is the connection people feel. When tech makes things smooth and our team brings empathy, that’s when guests experience modern luxury that feels effortless and warm.
 Several hotels under your leadership have won prestigious awards. What do you believe is the key to consistently delivering award-winning hospitality experiences?
Awards are a reflection of consistency and passion. For me, three elements stand out: an empowered and motivated team, a culture of continuous innovation, and a genuine focus on guest delight. It’s not about chasing accolades but about raising the bar every single day, awards then become a natural recognition of that commitment.
How do you plan to incorporate sustainable practices into daily operations and guest experiences, given the increasing importance of responsible luxury?
Sustainability is no longer optional; it’s an expectation from today’s conscious luxury traveller. At The Lodhi, we’re looking at everything from reducing single-use plastics and optimising energy and water use to sourcing locally and responsibly. Beyond operations, I also want sustainability to be visible in guest experiences, whether through farm-to-table dining, eco-conscious wellness programs, or collaborations with local artisans. Responsible luxury must be ingrained in our DNA.
Finally, as a hospitality leader, what personal philosophy or guiding principle drives your approach to creating memorable, experiential stays for guests?
My guiding principle is simple: hospitality is about creating moments of genuine human connection. While design, amenities, and services are important, it’s the warmth, anticipation of needs, and thoughtful gestures that make a stay unforgettable. I strive to instil this philosophy across my teams to treat every guest as an individual, not a transaction.
Could you share what percentage or share of your property’s business comes from MICE and weddings?
Weddings and MICE contribute a significant share to our business. The Lodhi’s versatile spaces and bespoke service approach make us a preferred choice for high-profile weddings and intimate yet impactful corporate gatherings.
How is the upcoming wedding season shaping up from a business perspective?
The outlook is extremely positive. We’re seeing strong demand, particularly for personalised, intimate weddings that emphasise quality over scale. Guests are looking for unique elements, be it wellness-focused pre-wedding experiences, curated culinary journeys, or themed décor that tells a story. The wedding season is shaping up to be robust, with higher spends per event and a clear trend towards experiential luxury. |
