Taj Hotels crowned world's strongest hotel brand; here's the remarkable tale of Jamsetji Tata's Taj Mahal Palace

Taj Hotels, a flagship brand of the Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), has earned the title of the world's most robust hotel brand, attributed to substantial revenue expansion.

As per the "Hotels 50 2024" report from Brand Finance, Taj Hotels experienced the second-highest growth rate worldwide, trailing behind Sheraton's Four Points. The report highlights that Taj's brand worth has surged to $545 million(Rs 4,553 crore).

Hilton maintains its position as the world's most valuable hotel brand for the ninth consecutive year.

Mumbai¡¯s Taj Mahal Hotel - a symbol of excellence and heritage

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Since its inception over a century ago, the Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai has transcended time as a living and breathing institution. Today, it stands as a significant tourist attraction for those exploring the 'City of Dreams' for the first time or seeking to witness the visionary masterpiece brought to life by the pioneering spirit of Sir Jamsetji N. Tata, exactly 120 years ago on June 12th.

Constructed two decades before the Gateway of India, the Taj Mahal Palace has undergone a remarkable evolution over its 12-decade history. Originally a captivating sight for ships docking at the Bombay Port, where its iconic red dome stood proudly amidst the city's hustle and bustle, it has since become an integral part of Mumbai's skyline. Today, it stands as a symbol of excellence and heritage, blending tradition with modernity as a world-class destination.

Also Read: From Jamsetji Tata To Ratan Tata: Know All About The Tata Members

The hotel was constructed at a cost of Rs 5.22 crore

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Sir Jamsetji N Tata was a visionary who dared to dream, and his dream came to fruition with the inauguration of the Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, constructed at a cost of ?500,000 (?5.22 crore). On December 16, 1903, the grand hotel welcomed its first 17 guests. Although the design was conceived by two Indian architects, Sitaram Khanderao Vaidya and DN Mirza, it was the Englishman WA Chambers who oversaw the project's completion.

In its pursuit of offering unparalleled luxury, the Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, proudly featured 30 exclusive suite apartments and 350 rooms equipped with modern amenities such as electric lights, fans, bells, irons, clocks, as well as conveniences like a power laundry, a chemist's shop, and a resident doctor. Additionally, guests were treated to indulgent facilities including a Turkish bath and advanced sanitation, ensuring a pampered experience for every visitor.

Did you know Jamsetji Tata built the hotel out of vengeance?

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Legend has it that Jamshedji Tata was motivated to construct the Taj Mahal Palace after experiencing discrimination at Watson's Hotel, a prominent British-era establishment reserved exclusively for "whites only." Viewing this as an affront to Indians as a whole, Tata resolved to establish a hotel where both Indians and foreigners could reside without prejudice. Thus, India's inaugural super-luxury hotel was born. Today, the Taj stands as a global icon, captivating visitors from around the world.