We spoke to Salil Panigrahi, Co-Founder and Managing Director for Atmosphere Hotels|Resorts, a dynamic and fast-growing Indian Ocean hospitality company about the new brand and its growth plans.
“The COLOURS OF OBLU brand offers something truly special for everyone, be it families, couples, honeymooners or global nomads. Expect a heady mix of exotic corners, pristine beaches, turquoise lagoon views, stand-out culinary concepts and pure escapism. This impressive lifestyle offering reflects Atmosphere’s Joy Of Giving philosophy, meeting the dreams and expectations of guests in a spirit of true generosity.”
Opening in February 2022, OBLU SELECT Lobigili is an adults-only haven. Lobigili translates from Dhivehi as ‘Island of Love.’ With 68 vibrant chic beach and overwater villas, Lobigili island is ideal for a chilled-out getaway. Romance permeates the air here. Idyllic tropical vistas complemented by stylishly designed spaces create a secluded, castaway feel.
OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi, opening in March 2022, is all about immersing in a free-spirited Maldivian vibe. In the local language of Dhivehi, ‘Aila’ means family and ‘Fushi’ means island. True to its name, this 268-villa resort brings a fresh, experiential environment where families, friends, couples, and global nomads can all enjoy a wonderful island escape.
A visionary hotelier par excellence, Panigrahi has built a reputation for hospitality based on the ethos of ‘Joy of Giving.’ He conceptualised Atmosphere in 2013, as a resort management brand with a unique philosophy. His objective was to operate value-driven resorts focused on the leisure segment in the Indian Ocean region.
He received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award (PBSA) by the Government of India on January 9, 2021 as a recognition of his significant contributions to the tourism sector in the Maldives.
In just seven years, under Salil’s leadership, the group has launched six resorts in the Maldives, with the latest addition being OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI in South Malé Atoll. The company is poised for further expansion with two resorts set to open in Malé Atoll in 2021 and two resorts under development at Tangalle, Sri Lanka.
“We want to take Atmosphere out of Maldives and into the world because the world's leading holiday destination – Maldives – doesn't yet have a hospitality brand of its own outside its own borders. This is our ambition – to see our homegrown Maldivian brand Atmosphere grow in top locations around the world.”
Salil is the master architect behind many successful brands such as COLOURS OF OBLU and By Atmosphere. His latest creation is launching the uber-luxe brand, THE OZEN COLLECTION.
He spearheads the company’s overall growth, brand development, and operational delivery with a hands-on approach in driving the overall corporate strategy.
Panigrahi started his career as a certified chartered accountant and today has nearly 25 years of direct experience in the hotel industry with the last 20 years in the Maldives. Having worked in diverse portfolios like brand development, operational delivery, and finance, he is someone who knows the industry inside out.
“Yes, I am a chartered accountant by education but I have a keen interest in science as well, particularly physics.
Panigrahi has also been actively involved in the development and operations of over a dozen internationally acclaimed resorts in the Maldives as part of the EoN Resorts Group.
Panigrahi brings a unique perspective to the hospitality industry, having created a resort experience that not only offers the best in segment features, but also a one-of-its-kind philosophy of Joy of Giving, centred around people and genuine, heartfelt hospitality. His innovation was offering leisure travellers a world-class luxury holiday experience in the Maldives, without any worries or hidden costs. With everything included in the unique holiday plans, guests can leave their wallets behind when they stay at any Atmosphere resort.