4 minute read
The Hermitage Villas Legacy
In the early 1980s, India was preparing to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in November 1983, an event that would bring leaders from over 40 countries to its shores. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, a towering figure in Indian politics, envisioned this summit not only as a diplomatic gathering but also as a showcase of India’s prestige and hospitality. While the main proceedings were scheduled in Delhi, Goa was chosen as the venue for a special retreat—a weekend of relaxation for the delegates following the formal discussions. To ensure this retreat met the highest standards, Mrs. Gandhi turned to the Tata Group, specifically the Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), which operated the Taj chain, to create an exclusive facility at the Taj Fort Aguada in Goa. This request led to the development of the Hermitage Villas and Lounge, a luxurious addition to the property that would leave a lasting legacy.
At the time, the Taj Fort Aguada Beach Resort, perched atop a hill overlooking the Arabian Sea and the historic 16th-century Fort Aguada, was already a celebrated property known for its blend of GoanPortuguese architecture and tropical charm. However, Mrs. Gandhi’s vision required something more bespoke—private, elegant accommodations that could cater to the world’s most distinguished leaders, including figures like Britain’s Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. She sought a secluded enclave within the resort, a place where privacy and luxury would harmonise with the natural beauty of Goa’s coastline. This prompted her to approach Mr. J.R.D. Tata, the visionary chairman of the Tata Group, whose reputation for excellence and commitment to national pride made him the ideal partner for such an endeavour.
Responding to Mrs. Gandhi’s request, Mr. Tata mobilised the Taj Group’s resources with remarkable speed and precision. The result was the creation of the Hermitage Villas, a cluster of standalone cottages built on a verdant hillock within the Fort Aguada complex.
These villas were designed to offer unparalleled privacy and comfort, featuring one, two, three, and even larger interconnected units to accommodate
heads of state and their entourages. Each villa boasted private gardens, verandas, and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, blending modern amenities like air conditioning and international direct-dial facilities with traditional Goan aesthetics, such as Mangalore clay tiles and stucco mouldings inspired by Portuguese mansions. The construction of six new cottages was prioritised to house the most prominent guests, including Mrs. Gandhi and Mrs. Thatcher, ensuring they had exclusive retreats that reflected India’s hospitality and architectural heritage.
Complementing the villas, the Hermitage Lounge was established as a sophisticated space for the delegates to unwind. This exclusive retreat within the retreat offered a serene environment where leaders could relax, enjoy the sea breeze, and partake in a curated culinary experience.
The Taj team, under Mr. Tata’s directive that “the food and service has to be top-class,” worked tirelessly to meet the exacting standards set by both the Prime Minister’s office and the Tata ethos. Chef Satish Arora, a culinary luminary at Taj, later recalled the intense pressure of catering for CHOGM, describing it as one of his toughest challenges.
The menu featured innovative Indian breakfast options like live-cooked dosas with unique fillings, alongside international fare, ensuring a seamless blend of local and global flavours.
The Hermitage Villas and Lounge were completed just in time for the CHOGM retreat, transforming Taj Fort Aguada into a diplomatic haven. The event was a resounding success, with leaders enjoying the relaxed ambiance after the rigours of the Delhi summit.
Mrs. Gandhi’s collaboration with Mr. Tata not only elevated India’s global standing but also cemented the Hermitage as an enduring symbol of luxury and legacy at Taj Fort Aguada, a testament to their shared vision of excellence. Today, these villas remain a highlight of the resort, their origins rooted in a historic moment of national pride.
