From one office table to a network of 140 hotels across 85 destinations, Ajay K Bakaya’s journey with Sarovar Hotels is a story of vision, grit, and relentless dedication.
According to hotelierindia.com, the Chairman of Sarovar Hotels and Director of Louvre Hotels India says his success rests on one simple belief — “sincerity and hard work will always give results.”
It’s a philosophy that has guided him through nearly three decades of leadership, shaping Sarovar from a single shared office table into a network of almost 140 hotels across 85 destinations in India, Nepal, and Africa.
Guiding Principles of Sarovar Hotels
Bakaya has been at the forefront of building India’s mid-market hospitality segment. “The mantra that has guided me is simple—stay grounded, stay curious, and never lose sight of your people. Challenges will come and go, but it is your team and your values that carry you through and define your true success,” he says.
An alumnus of Cornell-ESSEC, France, and the Oberoi School of Learning and Development, he brings global perspective and experience from assignments in India, Australia, Africa, France, and Scotland.
His leadership has earned him honours such as FHRAI’s Entrepreneur of the Year and Hotelier India’s CEO of the Year and Hall of Fame awards.
Vision & Growth
Beyond boardrooms, Bakaya finds inspiration on his cycle.
Having completed the 1,000 km Tour of the Nilgiris, he explains, “Fitness teaches you patience, positivity, and discipline—qualities that mirror what it takes to build a sustainable business.”
Under his stewardship, Sarovar Hotels has grown into one of India’s leading hotel management companies, with brands such as Sarovar Premiere, Sarovar Portico, Hometel, and Golden Tulip spanning the 3, 4, and 5-star spectrum.
Now part of the Paris-headquartered Group Du Louvre, Sarovar connects to a global network of 1,700 hotels across 60 countries.
What Lies Ahead
As he looks to the future, Bakaya is optimistic about what lies ahead. “The future of Indian hospitality in a single phrase? Boundless possibilities, rooted in tradition and powered by innovation.”
