GlobalSpa
28-Apr-2026
The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts celebrates four decades with the unveiling of new destinations and curated experiences.
The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts marks a defining milestone in 2026 as it celebrates four decades of True Indian Luxury – a journey guided by purpose and rooted in the timeless Indian ethos of 'Atithi Devo Bhava'. Since the opening of its first hotel, The Leela Mumbai, in 1986, the brand has crafted experiences that transcend hospitality – where every stay is an immersion into India’s rich cultural tapestry, expressed through art, architecture, cuisine, and intuitive service.
Over the past 40 years, The Leela has evolved into a portfolio of iconic palaces, hotels and resorts – each a reflection of India’s heritage, reimagined for the modern global traveller. As it enters its fifth decade, the brand marks a significant phase of expansion with the upcoming launch of The Leela Coorg Forest Sanctuary, followed by The Leela Jaisalmer and The Leela Luxury Residences in Mumbai – further strengthening its position as a leading voice in luxury hospitality.
Along with the brand’s expansion in key markets, the year will also see the introduction of distinctive new expressions – from Arq by The Leela at The Leela Palace New Delhi and The Leela Palace Chennai extending its private membership philosophy to The Azulian House at The Leela Palace Bengaluru, a refined culinary destination where storytelling and gastronomy converge.
The celebrations witnessed an all-employee town hall across all of The Leela’s properties and associates were honoured through a commemorative pinning ceremony, receiving specially designed 40-year insignia, alongside long service awards. It was further enriched through evocative cultural collaborations, including a commemorative musical album by maestros Amaan and Ayaan Ali Bangash, alongside the launch of The Leela Centre of Excellence, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to nurturing future custodians of hospitality. Guests will be invited to experience specially curated menus that trace The Leela’s four-decade journey, complemented by immersive wellness offerings under Aujasya by The Leela – from curated wellness menus and signature rituals to transformative retreats rooted in balance and renewal.
Mr. Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Executive Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, said, “As we celebrate 40 years of The Leela, we honour a journey defined by passion, purpose and an unwavering commitment to excellence. From our beginnings in Mumbai to a growing portfolio of iconic destinations, our endeavour has always been to showcase India’s rich cultural heritage through the lens of refined luxury. As we look ahead, we remain focused on thoughtful expansion, elevating guest experiences, and continuing to set new benchmarks for Indian luxury on the global stage.”
As The Leela steps into its fifth decade, it does so not only with a legacy of excellence but also with a renewed vision – continuing to shape the future of luxury through an Indian lens.
