In a remarkable step towards heritage-led urban renewal, The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has joined hands with the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, Calcutta, to redevelop the historic Chotelal Ki Ghat on the Hooghly riverfront (Strand Bank Road, Fairley Place). Originally built in the 1870s, the ghat has long been a silent witness to the city’s cultural and spiritual evolution. Supported by INTACH and aligned with the Government of India’s Namami Gange and Swachhata initiatives, the ₹5-crore project under IHCL’s ESG+ framework Paathya aims to restore the ghat’s architectural grandeur while fostering community engagement, sustainability, and local livelihood opportunities.
In a conversation with t2, Gaurav Pokhriyal, executive vice-president, human resources, IHCL, discusses the deeper intent behind the project, its alignment with IHCL’s values, and how it reflects the company’s commitment to preserving India’s cultural heritage through responsible business practices.
What inspired IHCL to take up the redevelopment of Chotelal Ki Ghat, and how does it tie into the company’s broader vision of heritage preservation?
The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), with a legacy spanning over 120 years, has long been a custodian of India’s cultural and architectural heritage. The redevelopment of Chotelal Ki Ghat is a natural extension of this enduring commitment. This initiative is not just about physical restoration — it’s about reviving the spirit of the Ganges, a river that has shaped civilisations and continues to embody India’s spiritual and cultural identity.
Could you elaborate on the role of IHCL’s ESG+ framework Paathya in shaping this project?
The project aligns seamlessly with IHCL’s ESG+ framework, Paathya, which redefines responsible hospitality through environmental stewardship, heritage conservation, and social inclusivity. Under Paathya, heritage conservation is seen not only as a cultural responsibility but also as a pathway to community and economic development. The Chotelal Ki Ghat project integrates architectural restoration with beautification and community participation — engaging local artists, vendors, and residents in the process.
Heritage projects often balance conservation with modernisation — how will IHCL ensure that Chotelal Ki Ghat retains its authenticity while becoming more functional for the community?
IHCL’s approach blends heritage sensitivity with thoughtful modernisation. Collaborating with INTACH and other leading conservation experts, we’re ensuring that the original architectural essence — dating back to the 1870s — is preserved using locally sourced materials and traditional techniques. Enhancements like ambient lighting, accessible walkways, and designated seating areas will improve functionality without compromising authenticity. Moreover, initiatives like flower waste recycling, craft displays, and cultural performances will ensure the ghat remains a living, inclusive space for the community.
The project involves collaboration with Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port and INTACH. How do these partnerships strengthen the redevelopment’s outcome?
Our partnership with Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port ensures technical and infrastructural alignment with Calcutta’s broader riverfront development, while INTACH brings invaluable expertise in authentic heritage restoration. Together, this collaboration represents a model for public-private partnerships — where shared vision and expertise can transform historic sites into vibrant community assets while preserving their cultural integrity.
Beyond restoration, how will the initiative benefit the local community, particularly artists, stall vendors, and residents?
Community upliftment is integral to this project. Local artists will gain dedicated spaces to exhibit traditional art forms such as murals and boat painting. Vendors will benefit from upgraded facilities and greater visitor engagement. NGOs will be supported to establish flower waste recycling units, creating livelihood opportunities, especially for women. For residents, the ghat will become a clean, safe, and inspiring space that fosters cultural expression and everyday interaction.
With tourism being a significant focus, how will Chotelal Ki Ghat be positioned as a cultural and visitor-friendly landmark after redevelopment?
Our goal is to position Chotelal Ki Ghat as a vibrant cultural landmark — one that tells stories of Calcutta’s past while embracing its future. Through art installations, heritage storytelling, eco-conscious practices, and enhanced accessibility, we want visitors to experience the ghat as both a place of reflection and celebration. It will become a space that invites tourists, locals, and heritage enthusiasts alike.
Given that this is a CSR-led initiative with an investment of nearly ₹5 crore, what are the key milestones over the three-year implementation period?
The redevelopment will unfold over three years under our CSR program. Key milestones include structural conservation and stabilisation, community space activation, full-scale cultural programming, and long-term maintenance planning. These phases ensure sustainability, community ownership, and a measurable positive impact aligned with Paathya’s goals.
Calcutta is steeped in heritage. Does IHCL plan to take on similar riverfront or heritage conservation projects in other parts of India?
Absolutely. IHCL’s commitment extends beyond Calcutta. We’ve been supporting Ganga Aarti experiences in Varanasi, Rishikesh, and Haridwar, and plan to introduce similar projects across our riverfront locations. Each initiative is designed to celebrate local culture, generate livelihoods, and promote sustainable tourism, further strengthening our Paathya vision.
In your view, what message does the redevelopment of Chotelal Ki Ghat send about the role of private enterprises in safeguarding India’s cultural legacy?
It underscores that private enterprises can play a transformative role in preserving cultural heritage. Through thoughtful investments and partnerships, businesses can create spaces that honour history while driving community benefit. IHCL’s redevelopment of Chotelal Ki Ghat is a testament to how heritage, sustainability, and inclusive growth can coexist meaningfully.