RAVI GHAI: BUSINESSMAN
~RAVI GHAI
| RAVI GHAI |
As a graduate of the prestigious Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration (Class of 1966), Ravi Ghai returned to India in 1967 to take the reins of the family business. Under his leadership, the group expanded significantly—revamping Mumbai’s Natraj Hotel into the landmark InterContinental Marine Drive, launching Kwality Ice Cream, Brooklyn Creamery, and bringing the Baskin-Robbins franchise to India and the SAARC region.
Business Highlights & Financial Performance
BROOKLYN CREAMERY
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Flagship Assets:
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InterContinental Hotel on Marine Drive, Mumbai
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Brands: Kwality Ice Cream, Brooklyn Creamery, Baskin-Robbins
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Key Roles:
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Non-Executive Chairman of Graviss Hospitality Ltd
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Directorships at Kwality Read Estates, Perfect Livestock LLP, among others.
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Financials:
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Graviss Food Solutions Pvt Ltd reported revenue of ₹624 crore in FY 2023–24, showing a 20% year-on-year growth.
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Estimated Group Net Worth: Between ₹800–1,000 crore.
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InterContinental Hotels Group (global brand under which the Mumbai hotel operates) valued at USD 18.43 billion as of August 2025.
Family Legacy & Dispute
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Founder Background: I.K. Ghai’s Kwality brand began in Delhi during WWII, later expanding into restaurants and luxury hospitality.
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Succession and Agreements:
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Ravi Ghai transferred stakes to his son Gaurav through a 2021 Family Settlement Agreement, retaining 51% promoter stake and rights as Non-Executive Chairperson, along with an annual payment structure. A supplemental agreement was signed in 2023.
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Conflict:
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Ravi Ghai alleges forgery and fraud by his son during his cancer treatment, including misuse of his signature and halting of agreed payments.
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The police declined to file an FIR, terming it a family matter more suitable for arbitration.
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Gaurav Ghai sought the Bombay High Court’s intervention to appoint an arbitrator; an esteemed former Chief Justice R.D. Dhanuka was initially appointed but later recused himself.
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Cultural Spotlight
SAANIYA CHANDOK ENGAGED WITH ARJUN TENDULKAR
Ravi Ghai recently entered the limelight due to his granddaughter Saaniya Chandok’s engagement to Arjun Tendulkar, son of cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar. The private ceremony has drawn public interest, symbolizing a union of two distinguished legacies—one rooted in cricket, the other in luxury hospitality and food.
Why Ravi Ghai Matters
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Blend of Tradition and Modernity
From pioneering ice cream in post-war India to institutionalizing global hospitality standards, he exemplifies continuity and vision.
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Strategic Business Expansion
His introduction of international franchises and premium brands highlights his forward-thinking approach in a conservative industry. -
Institutional Strength
Under his leadership, the Graviss Group has maintained consistent growth—positioning itself as a key player across hospitality and FMCG. -
Legacy vs. Succession Challenges
The ongoing family dispute underscores the intrinsic difficulties in transitioning legacy enterprises across generations.
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