Prithvi Raj Singh Oberoi, the Chairman Emeritus of The Oberoi Group, passed away on Tuesday, November 14, leaving a significant legacy behind. A renowned name in the hospitality industry, Oberoi's influence extended across borders, impacting the global landscape.
"It is with deep sadness that we inform the peaceful passing of PRS Oberoi, Chairman Emeritus of The Oberoi Group, earlier today," a statement said.
"As we mourn the loss of a true icon, we also aim to celebrate the extraordinary legacy PRS Oberoi leaves behind. In the coming days, we will share details of our plans to honour and remember him," it added.
Also known as "Biki," Oberoi was born in New Delhi on February 3, 1929. He held the positions of Executive Chairman at EIH Limited, the flagship company of The Oberoi Group, and Chairman of Oberoi Hotels Private Limited, a significant stakeholder in EIH Limited. His father, Rai Bahadur M.S. Oberoi, founded The Oberoi Group.
Oberoi received education in India, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland. His leadership extended globally, managing luxury hotels in various countries and pioneering the growth of Oberoi Hotels and Resorts, which became synonymous with exquisite luxury accommodations.
He strategically positioned Oberoi hotels on the map for international luxury travellers by opening several upscale establishments in key cities. Oberoi strongly believed in the paramount importance of people as an organisation's most valuable asset. Acknowledging the significance of quality in hospitality management, he established The Oberoi Centre of Learning and Development in New Delhi in 1967, recognised among the finest institutions in Asia.
In January 2008, P.R.S. Oberoi was honoured with the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian honour, for his exemplary service. His achievements include the Lifetime Achievement Award at ILTM (International Luxury Travel Market) for his exceptional leadership, the 'Corporate Hotelier of the World' award from HOTELS magazine USA, and the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 6th International Hotels Investment Forum in Berlin. Oberoi also received Forbes India Leadership Awards, Economic Times Awards for Corporate Excellence, CNBC TV 18 India Business Leader Awards, Business India magazine's Businessman of the Year, and Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards.
The cremation ceremony will be held at the Bhagwanti Oberoi Charitable Trust, Oberoi Farm, Kapashera, starting at 4 pm on Tuesday.
(With inputs from PTI)
