Dr. Vikram Kamat – Founder, The VitsKamats Group
He played a pivotal role in developing India’s first earn-and-learn program for students in hospitality at Khas
In a recent interview, Dr. Vikram Kamat, renowned hotelier, and entrepreneur, shared some of the remarkable highlights of his illustrious career. Having achieved several milestones in the hospitality industry, Dr. Kamat has consistently demonstrated his visionary leadership and passion for preserving India’s heritage.
Dr. Kamat’s accomplishments include building Kamat and Orchid Balewadi hotels in record time, solidifying their status as immensely successful establishments. Despite facing numerous challenges, he also completed the first Jadhav Gadh project, effectively restoring the historical significance of the site.
Pioneering innovation in the hospitality sector, Dr. Kamat successfully established the highway chain of Kamats and Vithal Kamats, providing delectable dosas and idlis to travelers along highways where such options were previously scarce due to a lack of manpower.
Furthermore, he played a pivotal role in developing India’s first earn-and-learn program for 12th-grade and graduation students in hospitality at Khas, creating opportunities for aspiring professionals in the industry.
Notably, Dr Kamat’s visionary endeavors extended to establishing a pan-India four-star chain, focused on tier 2 and tier 3 cities, thus contributing to the growth and development of regions beyond metropolitan areas.
In the interview, Dr. Kamat also shed light on the fascinating transformation of Fort Jadavgarh into a heritage hotel. The conversion presented a unique set of challenges, considering the historical significance and constraints of the fort’s architecture.
Throughout the restoration process, Dr. Kamat’s team unearthed intriguing historical secrets, including the fort’s association with Rajneesh (Osho) before his move to the USA. A part of the fort was accidentally burned during their departure, necessitating careful rebuilding. Despite these challenges, the successful conversion of Fort Jadavgarh brought immense pride and a sense of accomplishment, preserving its historical charm for generations to come.
