Smita Mishra 
From the crystal-clear waters of the Maldives to the vibrant heartlands of India, an Odia hotelier Salil Panigrahi is on a mission to revolutionize the luxury hospitality landscape.
Now, with his sights firmly set on the Indian market, Panigrahi is poised to bring his signature brand of luxury and excellence to the country. “We’re thrilled to announce that we’ve signed 15 luxury hotel management agreements for our India operation,” reveals Panigrahi. “This year, we’ll be opening properties in Bhopal, Coorg, and Kolkata, with many more in the pipeline.”
With a keen eye for opportunity and a passion for creating unforgettable experiences, Panigrahi is set to shake up the Indian hospitality scene. His company’s expansion plans also include forays into Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan, cementing Atmosphere Core’s position as a major player in the region’s luxury hospitality market. Panigrahi’s journey began in India, where he started his career at the esteemed Oberoi Hotels. His subsequent move to the Maldives marked a significant turning point, as he joined the Six Senses group and led the finance wing and resort operations. It was during this period that he formed EoN Resorts, a company specializing in resort development and consultancy for luxury resorts, in 2003.
As Panigrahi’s vision takes shape, one thing is clear: the future of luxury hospitality in India has never looked brighter. With his commitment to excellence, innovative approach, and dedication to creating unforgettable experiences, Salil Panigrahi is set to leave an indelible mark on the industry.As Odisha’s tourism and hospitality industry basks in the glory of renewed confidence, visionary hotelier Salil Panigrahi is poised to unleash a new wave of luxury resorts across his motherland Odisha. With a keen eye for opportunity and a deep understanding of the local landscape, Panigrahi’s company has identified four prime locations – Bhubaneswar, Chilika, Konark, and Koraput – to establish its signature resorts.
“We’re eager to bring our unique brand of luxury and hospitality to Odisha, and have submitted our proposals to the state government,” reveals Panigrahi, an alumnus of the prestigious BJB College. As he awaits the government’s nod, Panigrahi’s enthusiasm is palpable, driven by his conviction that Odisha is on the cusp of a tourism revolution. With his proposals pending approval, Panigrahi is ready to embark on an exciting new chapter in his hospitality journey, one that promises to redefine the luxury landscape of Odisha and leave an indelible mark on the state’s tourism industry. As the wait begins, one thing is certain – Salil Panigrahi’s vision for Odisha’s hospitality future is about to become a reality.
From the pristine shores of the Maldives to the vibrant landscape of India, Salil Panigrahi’s journey is a testament to his innovative spirit and passion for hospitality. With a career spanning over two decades, Panigrahi has evolved from a chartered accountant to a visionary hotelier, leaving an indelible mark on the luxury hospitality industry.
The turning point in Panigrahi’s career came when he launched his flagship brand, Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives, a five-star resort that redefined luxury in the Maldives. This was followed by the creation of Atmosphere Core, a hospitality company that would become the umbrella brand for his future ventures. Under Atmosphere Core, Panigrahi went on to create three distinctive brands, each with its unique identity and character. THE OZEN COLLECTION, Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, and COLOURS OF OBLU were born out of Panigrahi’s vision to offer diverse luxury experiences that cater to the evolving needs of discerning travelers.
Today, as Panigrahi sets his sights on expanding his hospitality empire in India, he remains committed to his core values of innovation, quality, and guest satisfaction. With his unique blend of financial expertise and hospitality acumen, Panigrahi is poised to make a lasting impact on the Indian hospitality industry.
Salil Panigrahi’s remarkable contributions to tourism have earned him prestigious awards, including the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman-2021 in the tourism category. This honor recognizes his efforts in strengthening ties between India and Maldives through his hospitality brand.
Previously, Panigrahi received the esteemed Maldives President’s Tourism Gold Award for his outstanding work in boosting the island nation’s tourism sector.As he attends the 18th edition of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Odisha’s capital city, Panigrahi takes pride in the state hosting this esteemed convention, celebrating the achievements of overseas Indians.
