The esteemed chairman emeritus of the Oberoi Group, PRS Oberoi, breathed his last on Tuesday at the age of 94, as confirmed by a spokesperson for the Oberoi Group. Born in New Delhi in 1929 as Prithvi Raj Singh Oberoi, he played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the Indian hotel industry.
As the executive chairman of EIH Limited, the flagship company of The Oberoi Group, PRS Oberoi left an indelible mark on the luxury hospitality sector. He also held the position of chairman at Oberoi Hotels Private Limited, a significant shareholder of EIH Limited. Known affectionately as “Biki,” he was the son of the late Rai Bahadur MS Oberoi, the founder of The Oberoi Group.
PRS Oberoi’s educational journey took him to India, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland, contributing to his comprehensive understanding of the global hospitality landscape. Under his visionary leadership, the “Oberoi” brand became synonymous with opulent luxury hotels, expanding its presence internationally.
His strategic initiatives placed Oberoi hotels prominently on the global map, offering unmatched luxury experiences in key cities. In recognition of his exceptional contributions to the nation, PRS Oberoi was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian honor, in January 2008. Additionally, he received the lifetime achievement award at the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) in Cannes in December 2012.
After an illustrious career, PRS Oberoi stepped down from his roles as chairman and director of EIH Limited on May 3, 2022. His legacy continues to shape and inspire the world of luxury hospitality, marking an era of unparalleled excellence in the industry.
