By Mewati Sitaram
As the evening unfolds at the illustrious 70 years platinum jubilee celebration of IHM Mumbai, there’s a palpable sense of nostalgia and pride among the attendees. Among them stands Rohit Khosla, Executive Vice President of IHCL, a distinguished alumnus whose journey from student to industry leader epitomizes the essence of hospitality excellence.
Reflecting on his time at IHM Mumbai, Khosla expresses genuine delight and honour to be present, recounting the four transformative years he spent within its halls from 1984 to 1988. “For me, it’s such a delight and honour to be here this evening to attend the 70 years platinum jubilee celebration of IHM Mumbai. It’s my alma mater, and I spent four years there from 1984-88, pursuing my hotel management and post-graduation,” he shares with heartfelt sentiment.
The ethos of IHM Mumbai, encapsulated in its college song “Enter to learn and Go to serve,” has left an indelible mark on Khosla’s journey. He acknowledges the profound impact of his education, stating, “We entered to learn in this prestigious college and we have been serving the hospitality industry ever since.” This foundational principle instilled a sense of purpose and duty that has guided him throughout his illustrious career.
Rohit Khosla with author Mewati Sitaram at IHM Mumbai’s platinum jubilee celebration
Gratitude emanates from Khosla as he pays tribute to his senior colleagues and mentors in the hospitality industry, whose guidance and support propelled him to his current position. “I’ve been very grateful to some of my senior colleagues, mentors in the hospitality industry that have guided me at every stage of the career, to allow me to reach this position,” he acknowledges graciously.
Central to Khosla’s success is the strong foundation laid at IHM Mumbai, which he credits for shaping his career trajectory. He expresses confidence in the institute’s ability to nurture future leaders, affirming, “A strong foundation at IHM Mumbai shaped my career to reach this position. I am sure, whoever was part of it and currently a part of it, would certainly reach the commanding position.”
Emphasizing his commitment to giving back to his alma mater, Khosla pledges to support the institute and uplift the quality of education in hospitality. “And, I feel it is my duty to go forward to support the institute, to support the students and uplift the quality of education in hospitality and therefore, will be the strong name,” he declares passionately.
As he reminisces about his time at IHM Mumbai, Khosla fondly recalls the rigorous academic curriculum and hands-on experiences that prepared him for the rigors of the hospitality industry. “IHM Mumbai is not only a brand India but a part of Incredible India. I am very happy to be here once again to be a part of the platinum jubilee celebration. It revived my old memories of this institution, classes, laboratories, creating real-time experience in every department,” he reminisces with nostalgia.
In conclusion, Rohit Khosla’s journey from IHM Mumbai to Executive Vice President of IHCL is a testament to the transformative power of education and mentorship in the hospitality industry. His unwavering dedication to excellence and commitment to giving back serve as an inspiration to future generations of hospitality professionals. As the platinum jubilee celebration continues, Khosla’s presence serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of IHM Mumbai and its role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
