Celebrating three decades of timeless luxury, warmth, and Indian hospitality with Arjun Sharma

As twilight settled over the manicured lawns of Heritage Village Resort & Spa, Manesar, the air was thick with nostalgia and celebration. The occasion was a special one as the luxe resort was set to commemorate a grand milestone with the 30th anniversary.  What began as a visionary endeavour in 1995 under the late Mr Inder Sharma has grown into one of India’s most beloved heritage resort destinations, now steered by his son, Mr Arjun Sharma, Chairman of Select Group.

A businessman with a discerning eye and a golfer with a calm swing, Arjun Sharma made a career of marrying experience with emotion. At 59, he brings more than just numbers to the table; he brings philosophy, culture, and a passion for the finer things in life. From the fairways of Delhi Golf Club, where he plays at a handicap of 18, to boardrooms that define India’s evolving retail and hospitality sectors, Sharma embodies a rare blend of strategic foresight and soulful living.

We caught up with him on a breezy March evening at the resort’s 30th anniversary celebration over a weekend affair that felt less like a corporate event and more like an elegant house party. Business tycoons arrived with their families, old friendships were rekindled over sundowners, and conversations flowed around legacy, leisure, and what it means to build something that lasts.

In an exclusive conversation with The Style List, Arjun Sharma opens up about his multidimensional world – from luxury experiences for the modern Indian traveller to the role of sport, spirituality, and storytelling in shaping the hospitality of tomorrow.

How do you define modern luxury in today’s fast-changing world? Has your perspective on luxury evolved over the years? Please share a luxury experience, whether in travel, fashion, or hospitality, that left a lasting impression on you.

AS: Modern luxury is defined by thoughtfulness and personalisation. It’s less about excess and more about the small details that make you feel seen. A great example is The Lana, Dubai— their in-room wellness menu, which you can preorder, really stood out. It reflected care, foresight, and a deep understanding of guest needs. Experiences like these leave a lasting impact.

Heritage Village Resort & Spa, Manesar, has reached an incredible milestone of 30 years in luxury hospitality. Looking back, what were some of the defining moments and challenges that shaped the resort’s journey from its inception in 1995 to where it stands today? What is your vision for the next decade of Heritage Village Resort & Spa? Are there any exciting developments or initiatives that guests can look forward to in the coming years?

AS: It’s been a journey of resilience and evolution. From our heritage architecture to curating wellness and cultural escapes, every step has shaped our identity. The next decade is about elevating leisure with thoughtfully designed experiences — we’re working on some exciting additions that reflect this vision.

As a leader in the hospitality industry, what trends do you see shaping the future of luxury hotels and shopping malls? Do you feel AI tech will be changing the hospitality and retail industry drastically in the coming years?

AS: Luxury is becoming more intuitive and experience-led. AI will play a key role in personalising journeys, enhancing efficiency, and reshaping retail. But the soul of hospitality will always lie in genuine human connection.

"The soul of hospitality will always lie in genuine human connection." –  Mr Arjun Sharma, Chairman of Select Group.

Tell us about your initiatives to balance the demands of luxury hospitality with sustainability. How do such practices impact your business and growth in the long run?

AS: We see sustainability as integral to luxury. From clean energy and waste management to local sourcing, our efforts not only reduce our footprint but deepen guest engagement. In the long run, it builds trust and future-proofs the business.

As someone who seamlessly blends business, sports, and leisure, how do you ensure balance in your personal and professional life? What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a mark in the hospitality business?

AS: Balance comes from doing what energizes you. Travel, golf, and wellness are not escapes — they’re part of my rhythm. For young entrepreneurs: stay grounded, build with purpose, and lead with passion.

What new projects or ventures are you most excited about within the Select Group? Can we expect more luxury-oriented initiatives soon? How do you see the Select Group redefining luxury experiences in the years to come, whether through golf, hospitality, or other ventures?

AS: We’re excited about our upcoming luxury resort in Goa. Across all ventures — be it hospitality, golf, or lifestyle — our aim is to create immersive, thoughtful luxury that resonates with modern sensibilities.