Suparjya Swain 
BHUBANESWAR: Jitendra Kumar Mohanty’s rise from an ambitious entrepreneur to a powerhouse in the hospitality industry of Eastern India is a tale of perseverance, vision, and an unwavering dedication to excellence. With over four decades of experience under his belt, Mohanty has not only revolutionized the hospitality landscape in Odisha but has also set new standards for luxury and service throughout the region.
Born and raised in Odisha, Mohanty was deeply inspired by his mother’s entrepreneurial spirit. After earning his B.A. (Hons.) from Delhi University, he pursued specialized training under Cornell University in the USA. However, the path to establishing himself in the world of hospitality was fraught with challenges. The early years were marked by financial difficulties and uncertainty, with no substantial financial backing. Despite these hurdles, Mohanty’s mother recognized his potential and took a bold step—she mortgaged her jewellery to provide him with Rs. 1 lakh, the seed capital needed to launch his first venture, Swosti Hotel. To Mohanty, his mother was the true entrepreneur, willing to take significant risks to support his dreams. His father, a dedicated construction businessman who never took a day off, also greatly influenced Mohanty, instilling in him the values of hard work and responsibility.
In 1984, Mohanty launched his first major project, Swosti Hotel, in Bhubaneswar. Despite the tough competition from established players, he managed to create a hospitality establishment that quickly became a favourite among both local and international visitors. His innovative approach and deep understanding of customer needs helped Swosti carve out a niche in the market.
With the growing success of Swosti, Mohanty expanded his vision, opening Swosti Grand in Bhubaneswar. This property, with its luxurious amenities and impeccable service, redefined hospitality standards in Odisha. Yet, Mohanty’s ambition went beyond merely building hotels; he aimed to craft experiences that would leave a lasting impression on guests. This vision materialized in the form of Swosti Premium, the largest five-star hotel in Bhubaneswar. Today, Swosti Premium is a landmark in the city, hosting numerous high-profile events and attracting dignitaries from around the world. The hotel’s grandeur and world-class facilities have set a new benchmark for luxury in Eastern India.
Recognizing the untapped potential of Odisha’s natural beauty, Mohanty extended his reach to Chilika Lake, one of the world’s largest coastal lagoons and a UNESCO heritage site. There, he developed Swosti Chilika Resort, a luxury eco-resort that harmonizes opulence with environmental sustainability.
Beyond Bhubaneswar and Chilika, Mohanty is now developing the Swosti Premium Beach Resort in Puri. This new venture aims to blend Odisha’s rich cultural heritage with modern luxury, offering guests a unique and immersive experience. Located on Puri’s pristine beaches, the resort is poised to become a major attraction for both domestic and international tourists. Through this project, Mohanty continues to elevate Odisha’s status as a premier travel destination in India.
Mohanty’s influence, however, extends far beyond the business world. Known for his strong leadership and personable nature, he has cultivated an inclusive work environment within the Swosti Group. Under his guidance, the company has made significant strides in employing differently-abled individuals, providing them with opportunities to thrive in their careers. His commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in the success of his employees, some of whom have gone on to win international competitions.
Today, under Mohanty’s leadership, the Swosti Group has grown into a diversified conglomerate with interests in tourism, hospitality, education, and travel management. The group directly employs over 1,200 people and indirectly benefits another 3,000, contributing significantly to the local economy. Each of Mohanty’s ventures exemplifies his dedication to quality, innovation, and sustainability.
As Mohanty looks to the future, his focus remains on expanding his business while upholding the high standards that have become synonymous with the Swosti brand. The forthcoming Swosti Premium Beach Resort in Puri is just one of many projects in the pipeline as he continues to explore new opportunities in the hospitality sector.
Jitendra Kumar Mohanty’s legacy is not merely about buildings and businesses; it is a legacy of leadership, innovation, and a profound commitment to societal welfare. His work has not only transformed Odisha’s hospitality industry but has also left a lasting impact on countless lives, embodying the true spirit of entrepreneurship.
