NEW DELHI: A leading light of Indian hospitality — Prithvi Raj Singh Oberoi — died on Tuesday morning. The chairman emeritus of The Oberoi Group, “Biki” (94), as he was popularly known as, had stepped down as executive chairman of EIH LTD and EIH Associated Hotels Ltd last May. Son of group founder late Rai Bahadur M S Oberoi, he was among the doyens who put Indian hospitality on the world map where it is now recognised as among the best.Legions of leading hoteliers have graduated from The Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development which he had established in 1967 and now occupy top positions in the industry and some who even went on to establish their own brands.
In a statement, his son and nephew Vikram and Arjun Oberoi said: “It is with deep sadness that we inform the peaceful passing of P R S Oberoi earlier today (Nov 14). A luminary in the hospitality industry, Oberoi’s legacy transcends borders, leaving an indelible mark on the global landscape. A visionary leader, (his) unwavering dedication and pursuit of excellence elevated The Oberoi Group to international acclaim. His influence extended beyond corporate success, touching the lives of countless hoteliers through mentorship and a commitment to unparalleled standards.”
Taking forward the legacy of the founder M S Oberoi, “Biki” ensured that the group set new benchmarks for Indian hospitality in terms of quality. His “impact, however, reached far beyond business achievements, as he fostered a corporate culture rooted in compassion, integrity, and genuine care for every member of our organisation… As we mourn the loss of a true icon, we also aim to celebrate the extraordinary legacy P R S Oberoi leaves behind. In the coming days, we will share details of our plans to honour and remember him,” the statement added.
Educated in India, UK and Switzerland, Biki had received numerous awards including the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second highest civilian honour, in 2008.
His attention to detail was legendary. While the group has three brands — Vilas (uber luxury), Oberoi (luxury) and Trident — the level of service and personalisation is the same across them.Watch Hospitality icon, PRS Oberoi passes away: Oberoi Group mourns the passing of chairman Emeritus
In a statement, his son and nephew Vikram and Arjun Oberoi said: “It is with deep sadness that we inform the peaceful passing of P R S Oberoi earlier today (Nov 14). A luminary in the hospitality industry, Oberoi’s legacy transcends borders, leaving an indelible mark on the global landscape. A visionary leader, (his) unwavering dedication and pursuit of excellence elevated The Oberoi Group to international acclaim. His influence extended beyond corporate success, touching the lives of countless hoteliers through mentorship and a commitment to unparalleled standards.”
Taking forward the legacy of the founder M S Oberoi, “Biki” ensured that the group set new benchmarks for Indian hospitality in terms of quality. His “impact, however, reached far beyond business achievements, as he fostered a corporate culture rooted in compassion, integrity, and genuine care for every member of our organisation… As we mourn the loss of a true icon, we also aim to celebrate the extraordinary legacy P R S Oberoi leaves behind. In the coming days, we will share details of our plans to honour and remember him,” the statement added.
Educated in India, UK and Switzerland, Biki had received numerous awards including the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second highest civilian honour, in 2008.
His attention to detail was legendary. While the group has three brands — Vilas (uber luxury), Oberoi (luxury) and Trident — the level of service and personalisation is the same across them.Watch Hospitality icon, PRS Oberoi passes away: Oberoi Group mourns the passing of chairman Emeritus
