Gopichand Hinduja, Chairman of Hinduja Group, Passes Away at 85 in London

Tribute to Gopichand P. Hinduja

Gopichand P. Hinduja, the chairman of the Hinduja Group and a billionaire of Indian descent, passed away at the age of 85 on Tuesday in London. His business ventures spanned various sectors, including banking, oil, and real estate. Notably, he transformed the Carlton House Terrace in London, near Buckingham Palace, into a luxurious five-star hotel, Raffles London, after acquiring it for £350 million, previously serving as Winston Churchill's WWII headquarters.

A Historic Transformation

The former war office of Winston Churchill is now recognized as a luxurious hotel. The Hinduja Group opened this project to the public in 2023. The walls of this building have witnessed some of the toughest decisions made during wartime. However, nearly a century later, a new narrative has begun here, blending history with luxury.

Renovation and Modernization Famous for Grandeur and Royal Aesthetics

Before its completion in 2023, the Hinduja Group purchased this historic building from the British government nearly a decade ago, aiming to revitalize it in a new form. They decided to convert this iconic structure into a luxury hotel, partnering with the renowned hospitality brand Raffles Hotels & Resorts.

Constructed in 1906, this building is a prime example of British design by William Young. While maintaining its grandeur and royal aesthetics, the Hinduja Group incorporated modern amenities, merging the beauty of the past with contemporary technology, making it truly unique.

Features of Raffles London Luxury Redefined

The hotel boasts approximately 120 exquisite guest rooms and suites, along with 85 luxury apartments, 9 restaurants, and 3 bars. Each room is designed to reflect glimpses of British history while ensuring modern comfort. It is not merely a hotel but an experience where guests can immerse themselves in history. Completing this project took several years, with the Hinduja Group ensuring that the building's original identity remained intact. Every detail, from the small stones to the wall carvings, was meticulously restored.

During the renovation, numerous wartime documents and historical artifacts were discovered, which will now be displayed in special sections of the hotel. The revamped Old War Office, now known as “Raffles London at The OWO,” is open to those who wish to witness a blend of history, art, and luxury in one location. Once a site for war planning, it now offers guests from around the world a serene and royal experience.

With its new identity unveiled to the world, this building has become a symbol of the shared history between India and Britain. The Hinduja Group has demonstrated that business can transcend mere profit, serving as a means to preserve cultural heritage and pass it on to future generations.