A playful tribute to Bollywood

Moxy’s brand ethos revolves around celebrating nonconformity and originality. With over 135 properties spanning 25 countries, Moxy has carved out a niche by transforming the conventional hotel experience into a playful adventure. Yet, this exuberance is always rooted in the local context. “Our core values—Thoughtful, Spirited and Fun—are non-negotiable, but how we express them varies by location. We work closely with local teams to understand their market’s trends and culture, and then we adapt our brand voice to fit that context. This allows us to be consistent in delivering the Moxy spirit while staying relevant to different audiences,” says Singh.

For instance, Moxy’s Indian debut in Bengaluru, located near Kempegowda International Airport, features spaces named ‘Arrival Zone,’ ‘Quiet Zone,’ and ‘Layover,’ reflecting its airport proximity. The Mumbai property, nestled in Andheri West—home to film studios and both aspiring and established actors—takes its inspiration from the glamour and vibrancy of Indian cinema. “Every corner of Moxy Mumbai is a visual treat, inviting guests to explore the magic of cinema and feel a part of the story,” shares Gaurav Premchandani of JOI-Design India which was tasked with scripting a spirited yet evocative narrative for the 105-key property. From the moment you step inside, you're welcomed by a burst of colour and creativity that mirrors Bollywood’s exuberance. Bright bold hues—magenta, electric blue, and sunny yellow, quite in line with the brand’s cheery pink—evoke the flamboyance of Indian cinema.

Functional yet fun

The experience begins right at check-in at Bar Moxy, where guests are welcomed with a complimentary drink. More than just a check-in point, the lively bar sets the tone for a fun-filled stay. Situated within the multifaceted lobby, its black industrial design and neon signage give it undeniable character. Designed to double as a social hub, Moxy Mumbai’s lobby invites guests to mingle, work, or simply relax. The playful décor encourages exploration, while the inviting seating—including community tables—fosters interaction among guests. Charged with energy, the atmosphere is heightened by vibrant music and the creative cocktails and small bites served at the bar. The space transforms throughout the day: cafe-like and laid-back by day, bustling and vibrant by night. As Singh notes, “We don’t believe in the traditional hotel stay. Every part of the guest journey is designed to surprise and delight.”

Every corner of the lobby tells a story, adorned with quirky Bollywood memorabilia and art pieces. There's graffiti featuring Bollywood icons, the silhouette of a certain ‘king’ in his signature arms-wide stance, and a famous dialogue urging a heroine not to give in to villainous demands. Chandeliers inspired by film reels and many other lighthearted details invite guests to explore and smile at the creative nods to Bollywood culture. “We invite the guests to embrace the spirit of Bollywood in a setting that marries fantasy with comfort,” remarks Premchandani. “Each space is thoughtfully crafted to immerse visitors in an enchanting and spellbinding experience, one that is a delightful departure from the ordinary.”

On the mezzanine level, guests will find the Library and a Plug-In Area, perfect for those who need a comfortable space to work. The Moxy Kitchen, located upstairs, is the hotel’s all-day dining option, designed to resemble a recording studio. With wall ornamentation evoking speaker drivers, neon signs spelling "Play On," and a mosaic floor pattern reading "Play It Too Loud," the space has a vibe that's both edgy and nostalgic. A dining nook is cleverly partitioned by a wall of cassette tapes. The menu echoes Mumbai’s iconic street food, featuring playful takes like Passionate Naan, a tandoori naan, topped, among other things, with a sprinkle of channa jor garam; and Bombay Emotions, a nostalgic chai brûlée paired with Parle-G biscuits and a sugar candy cigarettes, inspired by the iconic chai-sutta moment.

Moxy Mumbai’s 105 guest rooms are thoughtfully designed for compact yet stylish living. Corridors leading to the rooms are bathed in blue and accented with quirky art referencing Mumbai institutions like the iconic dabbawallas (tiffin carriers). True to the brand's philosophy, the rooms maximise functionality without compromising comfort. While compact, each room is packed with personality—from signature art pieces to personalised messages etched on mirrors by a differently-abled team member. Retro rotary phones and cosy lighting create a warm, welcoming vibe. In a nod to smart design, wardrobes have been replaced with wall-mounted pegs for hanging clothes and backpacks, with even the 55-inch televisions suspended on pegs. "We embrace the idea that less can be more," Singh explains, underscoring Moxy’s commitment to balancing efficiency with style.

Finally, Moxy Sky—the hotel’s rooftop bar—offers a stunning infinity pool, artisanal cocktails, and sweeping views of Mumbai’s skyline, making it the perfect spot to unwind as day turns to night.

Another noteworthy aspect of Moxy Hotels is its commitment to sustainability. Moxy Mumbai integrates eco-friendly materials and practices (an in-house bottling plant with soon do away with plastic bottles as well) into its architecture and interiors. With energy-efficient systems and refillable toiletries, the hotel ensures that guests can enjoy their stay while being mindful of their environmental footprint.

In a world where travel is becoming increasingly experiential, Moxy Mumbai stands out as a hotel that redefines what it means to stay away from home. It invites guests to not just check in, but to check out their creativity and immerse themselves in a world where playfulness reigns. As I left the lobby, I could hear laughter and music echoing through the halls, a testament to Moxy’s success in creating a space where everyone—young or young at heart—can revel in the joy of travel and connection.

In a city renowned for its film industry and vibrant culture, Moxy Mumbai doesn’t just offer a place to stay; it crafts an experience that stays with you long after you leave. Whether you're sipping cocktails at the bar, mingling in the lobby, or exploring the tonge-in-cheek décor, Moxy Mumbai invites you to embrace the spirit of the city in a setting that beautifully marries quirk with comfort.