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No Filter: Hotels may compete, but GMs, hoteliers are all buddies
For many of us, the various hotels in the city house some of our favourite restaurants and play host to some of the most special occasions in our lives like weddings.
By
migrator
migrator
Chennai
One would think that when it comes to these hotels, they would be all be professional rivals, but you would be surprised to know that their general managers (GMs) meet up once every two months for an informal gathering.
They take turns in playing hosts to these meet-ups, over some great food and beverages. They not only share information on vendors, clients, etc., but also bond over the fact that they all understand the challenges involved in their jobs. There is a healthy rivalry and good-natured ribbing when they pitch for the same event, etc., but together, they are also setting standards in hospitality. From waste management to implementing security apps, they share success stories so that others can learn.
Hoteliers and GMs of hotels in other cities, too, get together, but in formal settings. Here in Chennai, there is genuine friendship, fun and camaraderie. A few days ago, a city hotel played host to the GMs for an informal meet. With flash mobsfrom enthusiastic staff, to anarray of street food, it truly was a delectable evening.
I, for one, got to see the GMs let loose and have some fun. In the midst of the party, they took the time to talk to one another and shared concerns to find mutually beneficial solutions. There was also a fun ramp walk session once everyone was sufficiently libated. From creative poses to dancing to Mithun da’s songs, everyone had a jolly good time. The GMs from the OMR hotels gave everyone a run for their money when it came to strutting on the ramp with some impromptu choreography.
Erin Louis, the GM of one of the top hotels, is that friend in every group who meticulously documents the merriment on social media with witty commentary where appropriate. This is what goes on behind the scenes to make hotels function like clockwork.
At the higher-most levels, the GMs have each other’s’ backs and step in to support when necessary. Here’s hoping that they inspire peoplein other fields to get together with their rivals, because together, we are all stronger.
Chennai’s beloved DJ bids adieu after 18-year stint
Rudy Gallyot, a name synonymous with DJing in Chennai, earlier this week marked his 18th year of residency at a city night club. The hotel has changed hands over the years, the club’s name has been renamed, but loyalists have had one constant — the ‘king of good times’ Rudy. For many, the night wouldn’t be complete without hearing, ‘Good morning, my name is DJ Rudy’. The entire city came together to bid adieu to this legend in the Chennai nightlife circuit as he is about to embark on a new journey.
The club was packed to the rafters and there were many teary eyes. For once, this Wednesday night, most of the DJs were on the floor, instead of behind the turntable, for Rudy has been their mentor, friend and brother. After an emotional gig, Rudy had to take pictures with all those in attendance. The last time anyone got mobbed at this club was when a Chennai Super Kings player was attendance, should tell you enough about Rudy’s popularity. Many of the guests were seen reminiscing some of the best nights of their life with Rudy’s mixes — romances have blossomed and friendships cemented.
Rudy has also mentored and helped many of the top DJs in the city who are ruling the roost now. He says the gathering was “bittersweet and emotional”. “It is fully yet to sink in as I’m still here in Chennai, going to my regular haunts and meeting my friends. When I do get on that plane, I think it will sink in. I knew that my friends, former bosses and fellow DJs were planning something, but was moved by how many people made an effort to be there for me. I’m forever grateful to Chennai and its people. This place has truly become my home in the last 25 years of my time here. It’s the city and its people who made me, and stood by me for the good times and the not-so-good ones,” he says. Rudy, you will be dearly missed and your shoes are big ones to fill. We wish you the best on your next adventure.
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