Building a Hotel? Must Read

Having spent over 23 years in the hotel management industry, I’ve encountered a common challenge that many hotel owners face: improper planning during the development phase. Often, architects focus primarily on the aesthetics and room layouts of the hotel without considering critical back-of-the-house areas such as the kitchen, restaurant, and general storage facilities. This oversight can lead to inefficient operational layouts and unnecessary costs down the line.

Facade view of Crescent Spa & Resort, Indore, set against a backdrop of a cloudy sky, showcasing its grand architecture

In my experience, having a seasoned hotelier with project management experience onboard during the planning and development phase is crucial. This individual can provide valuable insights into the operational requirements of a hotel and work closely with architects to ensure that the layout maximizes efficiency and functionality. By collaborating with architects from the outset, hoteliers can optimize space utilization, streamline workflows, and minimize construction rework or retrofitting efforts later on.

Additionally, having a hotelier with project experience onboard can help owners make informed decisions regarding budget allocation, equipment procurement, and regulatory compliance. This proactive approach not only ensures that the hotel is designed to meet operational needs but also enhances the overall guest experience by facilitating seamless operations behind the scenes.

In summary, proper planning during the development phase of a hotel is essential for long-term success. By involving experienced hoteliers in the project from the outset, owners can avoid costly mistakes, optimize operational efficiency, and ultimately create a hotel that delivers exceptional experiences for guests while maximizing profitability.

Regional Celebrations Across India

India’s diversity is beautifully reflected in how Makar Sankranti is celebrated across different regions:
  • Uttar Pradesh & Bihar: Known as Khichdi in Uttar Pradesh, people take holy dips in rivers like the Ganges and offer khichdi to the needy.
  • Punjab: Celebrated as Lohri on the eve of Makar Sankranti, it is marked by bonfires, folk dances, and feasting on jaggery, sesame seeds, and peanuts.
  • Gujarat: Famous for the International Kite Festival, the skies of Gujarat are filled with colorful kites, symbolizing freedom and joy.
  • Tamil Nadu: Known as Pongal, it is a four-day harvest festival where rice is cooked in milk and offered to the Sun God.
  • Maharashtra: People exchange sweets like tilgul (sesame and jaggery) while saying, “Tilgul ghya, god god bola” (Accept this sweet and speak sweetly).
  • West Bengal: Celebrated as Poush Sankranti, people prepare sweets like Pithe made from rice flour, jaggery, and coconut.

Traditional Foods of Makar Sankranti

Food plays a central role in the celebrations. Dishes made from sesame seeds (til) and jaggery (gur) are commonly prepared, as they are believed to purify the body and provide warmth during winter. Regional specialties include tilgul ladoos, puran poli, khichdi, and pithe-puli.

Customs and Rituals

  • Holy River Bathing: Taking a dip in sacred rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, and Godavari is believed to cleanse sins.
  • Charity (Daan): Donating food, clothes, and essentials to the needy is an essential ritual, fostering generosity.
  • Kite Flying: Symbolizing the joy of freedom and the spirit of competition, kite flying is a beloved tradition, especially in Gujarat and Rajasthan.
  • Bonfires and Folk Songs: In Punjab and Haryana, communities gather around bonfires, singing and dancing to folk tunes.

The Spiritual and Astrological Connection

Astrologically, Makar Sankranti marks a significant shift in the cosmos, believed to enhance spiritual consciousness. It is considered an ideal time to perform rituals, start new ventures, and engage in self-reflection and charity.

Conclusion

Makar Sankranti beautifully blends tradition, spirituality, and cultural diversity. It reminds us to express gratitude for nature’s blessings, cherish family bonds, and spread kindness. As kites soar high and homes fill with the aroma of festive delicacies, Makar Sankranti continues to inspire joy, unity, and prosperity across India.

Wishing everyone a joyful and prosperous Makar Sankranti!

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