Rajasthan definitely has the advantage of heritage and it is only natural that it should draw on this inherent strength. It is all too obvious that we can compete and hold our own on the basis of our heritage. But I think the heritage movement has now taken a step backward. I never mince my words and therefore I am not popular with the movement. The reason is very simple.
Many people make heritage the excuse to cover up for the shortcomings of hospitality.
They think that since these are heritage and not five-star hotels, they can afford to be lax about the finer aspects of hospitality. Our policy, on the other hand, is that we should not lag in terms of facilities when compared to a modern five-star hotel. These include kitchen amenities, standards of hygiene, environmental standards, recycling of products like water and paper, treatment plants, sewerage, communication and other necessities sought by any traveller today. I feel that the basic level of facilities provided by many heritage hotels has to improve. Heritage implies just the look and ambience, not any compromise in terms of service, food and facilities.