The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group (an enterprise of Bharat Hotels) has expanded its footprint in Kolkata. Asia’s first luxury hotel- The Great Eastern was unveiled as The Lalit Great Eastern today on the occasion of the 69th birth anniversary of Lalit Suri. Incidentally, the erstwhile The Great Eastern also started on this very date, 173 years ago. The inauguration ceremony was led by Mamata Banerjee, Chief Minister, West Bengal and Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson & Managing Director, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group. The property will open in two phases.
Speaking on the occasion, Banerjee said, “The heritage property will conquer the minds and touch the hearts. The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata has my support and best wishes for their goal. The Great Eastern was popular, is popular and will remain popular.”
Suri added, “We are proud to bring to you the iconic property ‘The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata’. It’s a memorable day for all of us at The Lalit family. The restoration of this iconic hotel has been a labour of love, painful and time consuming but extremely rewarding. On this auspicious day, I thank Hon’ble Chief Minister for gracing us with her presence and her constant support and blessings.”
The heritage landmark was initially established on 19th November 1840 by David Wilson, a baker from Hertfordshire. It was the favourite haunt of the city’s elite, members of the royalty and celebrities from across the world like Mahatma Gandhi, Queen Elizabeth II, Rudyard Kipling and Mark Twain who referred to it as the ‘Jewel of the East’ and the best hotel East of the Suez. After being bought over by The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, it went through extensive renovations and restorations and today unveiled as The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata. This magnificent heritage property is the epitome of luxury and is a landmark for the city of Kolkata.
