The sudden passing away of Homi Aibara sent a wave of disbelief amongst the industry. He was special to those who knew him and even to those who only knew of him. Hotelier India’s association with him went much beyond the magazine, as he was almost always the go-to person for any guidance or information on the industry. We got some of Aibara’s associates to share their memories with us. BY TEAM HOTELIER INDIA
Rakesh Sarna
CEO and MD, IHCL
I am deeply shocked and speechless. It is with much sadness that I am putting pen to paper about the most untimely passing of Homi. I first met him in 1997 and had the good fortune of working alongside him since then. We, in the hospitality industry, have lost a visionary who was well ahead of his time; blessed with exceptional talent and unlimited creativity. Homi was a fantastic partner and a consummate professional; his knowledge about and commitment to the Indian hospitality industry was second to none. I always looked to him as an objective advisor – always working hard on bridging connections and differences to bring people together.
Homi created relationships that worked; this won him the greatest admiration and respect from everyone across industries and communities. His enthusiasm and energy will be truly missed by all of us. Homi leaves behind a loving family and an enterprise built to standards which carries his unique stamp.
May Homi rest in eternal peace.
Manav Thadani
Chairman, HVS, APAC
I first heard of Homi when I arrived in India 18 years ago and decided to check out the competitive landscape. Very quickly did I learn that almost everyone I spoke with unanimously suggested that he was the best hotel consultant in India. My respect for him continued to grow as we started to work together (mostly at opposite ends of the table). During the last few years he was a regular judge at our HICSA “Best hotel of the Year awards” and he always was a fantastic moderator to have around at HICSA. His knowledge of the markets and deal structuring was unparalleled.
As a friend, my memory of Homi will always be a glass of whisky in one hand and a lit cigarette in the other with a large smile. He lived life to the fullest and at HICAP last month in Hong Kong, I met many people (mostly of international origin) who spoke fondly of him. It was as if everyone was giving him one last toast.
KB Kachru
Chairman, South Asia, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group
I was shocked and saddened to learn about the untimely demise of our dear friend Homi. I still cannot believe that he is no more and left us. However, as they say, the one who is adored the most by God, is the one who achieves eternal life. I will miss him and will cherish all the happy memories we all had with him.
Homi always stood out of all people by the way he dealt with you, his professional approach and his big heart. Those of us who got to know Homi were very lucky for having crossed paths with him.
Rattan Keswani
Deputy MD, Lemon Tree Hotels
Homi was a pioneer in his field in India. I got to know him in my early years in hospitality and found him to be extremely knowledgeable. Despite being a hard negotiator, he was always available to share and mentor, away from the discussion table. A wonderful friend, fun loving and caring. A family man to the core. He will be sorely missed by all of us. RIP Homi. I feel honoured to have known you.
Dilip Puri
MD India & regional VP, South Asia, Starwood Hotels & Resorts
The hospitality industry has lost a great thought leader. Homi was truly a friend, philosopher and guide to me and I am sure to many of us in the industry. I will really miss him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Sanjay Sethi
CEO and MD, Chalet hotels
A friend, an outstanding expert on the business of hospitality and a gentleman to the core, I will miss him as a friend and guide.
Amit Tyagi
VP and head, technical services, IHCL
I had known Homi only since last 10 years but had developed a very friendly business and personal relationship. There were times when we had disagreements on projects but he would ensure that we reach a mutually agreed resolution before leaving the meeting room. I really enjoyed the conversations when we met at social events and during our ‘fresh air’ breaks in between the meetings. I had utmost respect and liking for him, which is always going to remain and am certainly going to miss meeting him.
S Saikumar
Deputy MD, ITP Publishing India Ltd
Homi Aibara was an integral part of Hotelier India right from its launch back in 2008. As a consultant, he was not just a veteran but probably the most well-informed and knowledgeable person about the industry. One of the most charming attributes of his personality was his unassuming style and friendly demeanor which put everyone at ease. But his no-nonsense and balanced approach to the job at hand gave him a formidable reputation as a reliable professional.
His warm and vivacious personality was very infectious and his wit made our jury meets a fun event to be a part of. Not only will he be missed by the jury members at the meet, but the Hotelier India family has lost a senior member who is irreplaceable.
