Vidhi Gupta
04-Jun-2026
Padmaa, Jaipur, reflects the Shah family's vision of authentic, heartfelt hospitality.
Jaipur is a city full of heritage, culture, and stories waiting to be discovered at every corner. One such corner is Padmaa, an 18th-century family home transformed into a luxury boutique hotel, where traditions, values, and familial warmth come together. Rooted in the values passed down by the elders, Padmaa brings forth the humble warmth of home. And it is set to continue doing so under the stewardship of the third generation of the Shah family.
Prateek Shah, Shashwat Shah, and Shaleen Shah are the grandchildren of Shrimati Padmaa Devi Shah, after whom the haveli is named. We spoke to the brothers about Padmaa, its courtyards and chandnis, the whispers of countless family memories, and the rooftop experiences that make it so special.
What’s one value the older generation instilled in you that still shapes how you run hospitality today?
At Padmaa, we believe hospitality is service without showmanship, where our guests' comfort and dignity always come first. Rooted in the values passed down by our elders, we see true luxury as invisible attention like anticipating needs, resolving the smallest details before they are noticed, and welcoming every guest with the warmth of family. This philosophy guides every decision we make, from how our team is trained to the thoughtful touches curated across every guest experience.
What’s one tradition from your family you refuse to modernise, no matter how trends change?
We refuse to modernise our evening tea ritual. Hot tea served alongside homemade, lovingly prepared snacks. As the day slows down, we bring forth the same warmth this haveli has always known, ensuring guests don’t just stay here, but feel genuinely welcomed, cared for, and instantly at home.
What does hospitality mean to the Shah family?
For us, hospitality is caring for our guests while honouring the haveli, its history, and the local community. It is about welcoming people into our story, sharing our table and traditions, and creating a space where guests feel not only pampered but also genuinely seen, known, and at home.
Do you have any early memories of the haveli before turning it into a hotel?
Yes, chasing our brothers and sisters through the courtyard at dusk, listening to elders share stories of weddings and harvests on the rooftop, and waking to the comforting aromas of ghee and spices from the kitchen. The haveli was always alive with laughter, music, and togetherness. Those memories instilled in us a deep responsibility to preserve its soul, honouring its legacy rather than erasing it.
If Padmaa had a personality, how would you describe it in three words?
Warm, timeless, and gracious.
A place where heritage feels lived-in, hospitality comes naturally, and every stay is marked by comfort, authenticity, and a sense of belonging.
What’s one experience in Jaipur every guest must have before leaving?
An early evening walk through Jaipur’s old walled city is a must. Wander through its bustling lanes, tasting delicious local delicacies from iconic food shops, and visit the centuries-old temples that continue to be at the heart of the city’s cultural life. Follow it with a leisurely meal of authentic Rajasthani specialties back at Padmaa, served alongside stories of the recipes, traditions, and people who have shaped the region’s rich culinary heritage.
What do you hope guests remember after staying at Padmaa?
We hope our guests leave feeling truly seen and cared for, not simply as visitors, but as welcomed guests in a living home. More than anything, we hope they carry with them the quiet, meaningful moments: the taste of our house chai, a memorable meal shared around the table, the calm of the haveli’s courtyards, and conversations that felt personal and genuine. If they leave with a sense of belonging and a desire to return, then we know we have succeeded in sharing the spirit of Padmaa.
Which are each of your favourite parts of the hotel
We each have our own favourite corner of Padmaa. The courtyard holds a special place in our hearts. It is the soul of the haveli, where the morning sun filters through the arches, festival lights bring celebrations to life, and guests naturally gather to connect and unwind. The rooftop is equally cherished, offering intimate breakfasts, relaxed evenings at the rooftop bar, and unparalleled views of Jaipur’s skyline. Watching the city’s silhouettes emerge at sunset from up there is a truly magical experience.
What’s next for you
We will continue restoring and revitalising different corners of the haveli in collaboration with local artisans, ensuring that traditional craftsmanship remains at the heart of Padmaa’s evolution. At the same time, we are committed to expanding our sustainable practices, from responsible water and energy use to strengthening our relationships with local growers and suppliers. We also look forward to creating more meaningful experiences for our guests, from heritage walks and artisan workshops to community dining evenings that celebrate Jaipur’s vibrant culture. Our goal is for Padmaa to remain a welcoming sanctuary for travellers while continuing to honour and preserve the traditions that make it so special.
