Rising from the ashes, shards and scars left over by the carnage of the 26/11 attacks, the ballroom of the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower hotel reopened on Tuesday, holding its first private event.
A portion of the ballroom, which forms part of the hotel's Heritage Wing, was gutted in the bloody siege on November 26, 2008.
“We are excited about throwing open the doors of the ballroom to the sounds of parties, weddings, corporate meets and receptions once again. It is a fitting beginning to a new chapter in the history of the Palace Wing of the hotel. We are delighted to invite our guests old and new back to create their special memorable occasions at this venue,” Karambir Singh Kang, general manager, was quoted saying in a press release.
The hotel is silent about the cost of renovation and exact nature of damages. All traces of the attacks have been obliterated, with nothing remaining to evoke the memory.
“The interiors have been entirely renovated. The essence of the ballroom is retained, however the design and décor have been restored to its original form with elements of contemporary luxury,” a Taj spokesperson told TheHindu .
The Victorian décor is replete with “corinthian capitals on gold polished columns and vaulted ceiling,” the spokesperson added.
“The Victorian theme is the same as it was in 1933 when the ballroom first opened. All the furniture and equipment is new.”
Bookings have already started and the hotel is looking forward to a positive response from its loyal patrons.
“The regal ballroom has always been the quintessential venue for landmark events and legendary celebrations throughout the history of the hotel.
“Against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea and the Gateway of India, bathed in rich hues of gold and bejeweled with antique crystal chandeliers, the ballroom returns as a dazzling setting for an evening of wining and dining.
“Outfitted with the latest in technology, it will provide the ideal setting for a high-profile corporate function. As it does for a social setting, with graceful arches and scalloped pillars giving it an air of Victorian elegance.
“Grand Executive Chef Hemant Oberoi and his team will oversee and orchestrate the cuisine for events to be held at the ballroom,” the press release says.
