From Ruins to a Living Legacy: My Journey with Six Senses Fort Barwara

-Rajat Gera, Commercial Director, Six Senses Fort Barwara

When I first joined the Six Senses Fort Barwara team during its pre-opening phase, I found myself standing amidst an ancient, almost forgotten fortress—a place that still held echoes of a grand past. I could feel the weight of history in every stone, every carved detail. It was as if the fort was waiting, patiently, for someone to breathe new life into it.

I remember those early days, where everything was still in its nascent stage. It was both overwhelming and exhilarating, witnessing the slow but determined transformation. With each passing day, Fort Barwara began to come alive, taking on a character all its own. Like the lush horticulture that now adorns its walls, the fort changes colors with every sunset and moonrise, constantly evolving.

Over the years, this place has grown to feel like a second skin—a comforting familiarity that I hope our guests also experience. It has transformed into a royal abode, no longer a ruin but a sanctuary that embodies the essence of well-being. The majestic arches, the ancient courtyards, and the hidden nooks have all come into full bloom, just as we, as a team, have reached new heights year after year. It is incredibly rewarding to see our efforts culminate in a space that truly honors both the heritage and the promise of modern luxury.

Walking through the fort today, I see a story of revival. Where once there was decay, there are now flourishing gardens, the soft murmur of water channels, and the warmth of carefully restored rooms. I feel a sense of pride knowing that every detail—whether it is the intricate stonework preserved by skilled local artisans or the modern comforts we’ve so thoughtfully integrated—represents the convergence of history and innovation.

One of my favourite spots is the Shikar Burj, the old hunting tower that now serves as a private dining area with breathtaking views of the Aravalli Hills. To think that a place once used for hunting can now offer such moments of serenity is a testament to our mission here. And then there’s the Zenana Mahal, with its ancient Radha Krishna temple—it’s a place that stills the mind and allows us to connect to something deeper.

There’s a certain magic about Fort Barwara—a feeling that it has taken on a life of its own. Just like a living being, it has moods and moments that change with the time of day, with the season. The fort is no longer just a building; it’s an experience, a living, breathing entity that continues to unfold its story for those who come to witness it.

For me, being part of this journey is not just a job; it’s a labour of love. From ruins to a wellness sanctuary, this transformation has not just been about restoration—it’s been about rediscovery. Rediscovering the spirit of this place, the stories that it has to tell, and the experiences that it now offers to those who seek a unique blend of culture, history, and mindful luxury.

Fort Barwara will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s more than a resort; it’s a testament to what can be achieved when we honour the past while embracing the present. And I feel privileged to be part of its journey—a journey that, in many ways, has also been my own.

-Rajat Gera, Commercial Director, Six Senses Fort Barwara

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