Nestled in the heart of Varanasi, Dalmia Bhawan, now being transformed into the luxurious SABO Boutique Hotel, stands as a testament to the city’s rich heritage and evolving hospitality landscape. This 200-year-old colonial edifice, a serene two-storey structure painted in milky white, welcomes visitors with a picturesque driveway flanked by lush green lawns, multiple tall trees creating a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling thoroughfare of Varanasi.
Upon entering Dalmia Bhawan, one is instantly enveloped in a sense of history and elegance. The Bhawan has witnessed India’s journey from colonialism to independence and now is gearing up for becoming a global tourism hub. This transformation planned is not merely a change in structure but a celebration of the historic memories cherished within its walls. Notable figures such as Annie Besant, Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindra Nath Tagore and Sarojini Naidu have all been integral part of its storied past.
Kunal Dalmia, the owner of Dalmia Bhawan, envisions to transform the Dalmia Bhawan to the Luxurious Boutique Property SABO Hotel, as a significant, flagship contribution to Kashi’s tourism sector. “With the increasing influx of travelers to the city, Banaras will continue to shine. Our Boutique Heritage Hotel is going to make a lasting impression on the city and for this quantum jump, the city needed great infrastructure to create an experience for discerning tourists,” he remarks. The hotel’s strategic location between the iconic Assi Ghat and Dashashwamedh Ghat further enhances its appeal, providing guests with an easy access to some of Varanasi’s most popular and revered spots.
The rise of luxury and spiritual tourism in India is attributed to improved connectivity, enhanced infrastructure and the modernization of pilgrimage cities under various programs by the Government of India, including the PRASAD scheme. The Dalmia family’s commitment to contributing, catering to the growing demand for spiritual tourism in Varanasi is evident in their meticulous efforts to transform their 19th-century garden home into an ultra-modern, luxurious retreat. This renovation honors Kunal Dalmia’s Mother, Savitri Devi (SABO), embodying a blend of familial reverence and forward-thinking hospitality.
Varanasi, with its 80 (or some argue, 84) ghats, is a city where every corner tells a story. The ghats, each with unique architectural styles, reflect the diverse patronage of local kings and dignitaries over the ages. A stroll along these ghats offers a glimpse into India’s rich cultural tapestry. The solemn pyres at Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghat serve as poignant reminders of the eternal cycle of life and death.
The evening aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat and the Subh-e-Banaras morning aarti at Assi Ghat are spectacles that encapsulate the spiritual essence of Varanasi. These rituals, once confined to specific locations, have now expanded, offering a grand and mesmerizing experience to visitors from across the globe.
As Dalmia Bhawan evolves into the SABO Boutique Hotel, it promises not only to preserve the heritage of Varanasi but also to enhance the city’s appeal to tourists worldwide, blending history with modern luxury in an unparalleled fashion.
