The Royal Return
How Taj’s iconic address in Delhi reimagines Air India’s equally iconic mascot into a suite, putting an evocative spin on luxury hospitality.
By Rupali Sebastian
In the tranquil splendour of the Taj Mahal Hotel, New Delhi, a remarkable story takes shape—one that pays homage to the whimsical legacy of Air India’s beloved Maharaja while embracing the timeless elegance of Lutyens' Delhi. The approximately 1,400 sq.ft. Maharaja Suite is not just an opulent accommodation; it’s an evocative journey into India’s aviation heritage, presented with contemporary flair.
The Maharaja, introduced as Air India’s mascot in 1946, was never intended to be a literal royal. Instead, his playful persona—a debonair figure with a twirled moustache and a penchant for indulgence—redefined the travel experience. He became a cultural icon, introducing new routes with wit and charm, representing an airline that dared to be bold and unconventional. With the Tata Group’s reclamation of Air India, the Maharaja’s spatial tribute feels both poignant and symbolic, uniting India’s aviation and hospitality narratives. “This wasn’t about creating another luxurious room,” says Bobby Mukherji, the architect tasked with this ambitious endeavour. “The suite needed to articulate the Maharaja’s personality—a blend of indulgence, wit, and timeless elegance. Designing the suite was about striking a balance between whimsy and gravitas.”
The specially commissioned island bed sits on a custom hand-tufted carpet. Note the moustache motif.
Custom wallpapers depict iconic Indian elements.
Mukherji’s design approach integrates thoughtful nods to the bon vivant. Deep crimson accents, echoing his regal attire, and vintage travel trunks repurposed as tables establish an air of nostalgia. Airplane-inspired windows invite guests to gaze out at the lush vistas of Lutyens’ Delhi, linking the suite to its historic setting. The washroom, with its marble inlays and gold fittings, transforms even the most private space into a sanctuary of sophistication.
Subtle motifs further underscore the suite’s narrative. The Maharaja’s signature moustache appears embroidered on cushions and upholstery, a playful yet refined detail. Bespoke artworks chronicle his global adventures, while brass inlays and polished wooden accents create a dialogue between heritage and modernity. Every element, from the handwoven fabrics to the tactile richness of the furnishings, invites guests into a carefully curated world that celebrates craftsmanship and storytelling.
Architect Bobby Mukherji's design approach integrates thoughtful nods to the bon vivan.
Every element, from the handwoven fabrics to the tactile richness of the furnishings, invites guests into a carefully curated world that celebrates craftsmanship and storytelling.
The suite’s philosophical foundation also stands out. Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director of IHCL, describes it as “a tribute to timeless icons.” At approximately ₹7 lakh per night, the Maharaja Suite is a premium offering. Yet its true value lies in its ability to transcend traditional definitions of luxury.
A home theatre, state-of-the-art video conferencing facilities and voice-controlled lights and appliances take care of the needs of the modern traveller.
In a world that often races toward the new, this suite pauses to honour the enduring. As you settle into a handcrafted armchair or let your fingers trace the moustached motifs on a pillow, you can almost hear the Maharaja’s chuckle—an invitation to revel in timeless elegance.
The study with a poster of the muse of this design.