Ravi Ghai: The Ice Cream Baron Behind Saaniya Chandhok's Family Legacy
When Arjun Tendulkar and Saaniya Chandhok tied the knot on March 5, the wedding naturally captured widespread attention. While the ceremony itself remained a private affair, curiosity quickly grew around Saaniya's family background. One name that frequently emerges in these discussions is Ravi Ghai – a Mumbai-based businessman who has spent decades building a formidable empire in the hospitality and food sectors. Widely recognized as the man who introduced the global ice cream brand Baskin-Robbins to India, he is often referred to as the ice cream baron of India. Here is a detailed look at the businessman and the enduring legacy associated with his name.
Ravi Ghai and the Graviss Group
Ravi Ghai heads the Graviss Group, a Mumbai-based conglomerate with diverse interests in hotels, restaurants, and food brands. Over the years, the group has carved out a steady and influential presence in the hospitality industry. Its operations extend across India and even into the SAARC region, making it a well-recognized name in the food and hotel business. Ravi Ghai has been intimately involved in shaping and expanding the group for many decades, driving its growth and strategic direction.
Education and Early Days in Business
Ravi Ghai pursued his education in hospitality management at the prestigious Cornell University School of Hotel Administration. After completing his studies, he returned to Mumbai in 1967 and joined the family business, as reported by the Economic Times. His father had already established the popular ice cream brand Kwality Ice Cream, which was a favorite among many Indian families at the time. This early exposure laid the foundation for Ravi's future ventures in the food industry.
Bringing Baskin-Robbins to India
One of Ravi Ghai's most celebrated business decisions occurred in 1993 when he introduced Baskin-Robbins to India and the SAARC region. For countless Indians, this marked their first real introduction to international-style ice cream flavors. The move significantly expanded the organized ice cream market and added a prestigious global brand to the country's dessert landscape, revolutionizing the way Indians enjoyed frozen treats.
His Role in Mumbai's Hotel Industry
Beyond food brands, Ravi Ghai has also been actively involved in the hotel sector. He owns the InterContinental Marine Drive, situated along Mumbai's iconic Marine Drive. Today, this property is regarded as one of the notable hospitality projects linked to the Graviss Group, showcasing his commitment to luxury and service in the heart of the city.
Ravi Ghai's Family and Saaniya Chandhok
Ravi Ghai is the grandfather of Saaniya Chandhok. Her parents, Sunny Chandhok and Gaurika Ghai Chandhok, are also connected to the family's extensive business network. Saaniya grew up in Mumbai, where she completed her schooling before moving to London for higher studies, blending her family's entrepreneurial roots with a global education.
Who is Gita Ghai?
Ravi Ghai's wife is Gita Ghai. According to online sources, the couple got married on July 10, 1967. Over the years, both have been associated with the Graviss Group, which holds interests in hotels, food services, and ice cream brands across India and the SAARC region. Unlike her husband, Gita Ghai has largely maintained a low profile, staying away from public attention while supporting the family business.
A Long Journey in Hospitality and Food
Ravi Ghai's career in the hospitality and food industry spans several decades. Through the Graviss Group, he has remained deeply connected to restaurants, hotels, and renowned ice cream brands. From continuing the legacy of Kwality Ice Cream to pioneering the introduction of Baskin-Robbins in India, his work has played a pivotal role in shaping segments of the organized food and hospitality sector in the country, leaving an indelible mark on India's culinary and business landscape.
