“Some journeys begin not with a map, but with a dream and a firm belief in the ground beneath one’s feet.”
Introduction
Life with Confidence, Humor,
& a Unique perspective
Dr. Sanjeev Batra is a story of grit, vision, and an unyielding love for India’s heritage. Born with a profound connection to the land he walked on, he always believed that as long as he had the earth under his feet, he was safe, secure, and ready to shape his destiny. For Sanjeev, this deep-rooted bond wasn’t just a calling; it was his compass, guiding him to transform Delhi’s forgotten historical spaces into thriving symbols of culture and legacy.
His journey wasn’t solitary; it was a symphony played with the support of family, friends, and collaborators who believed in his dreams. It’s a tale of reviving not just spaces but also spirits—a legacy, lovingly restored, brick by brick, fueled by love for India’s rich history and its vibrant future. His is the story of a man who saw possibilities where others saw ruins, found meaning in the silent stories of ancient walls, and dedicated his life to preserving the timeless soul of Delhi for generations to come.
“Dreams are born in the humblest of places.”
Phase 1 : Humble Beginnings
Sanjeev’s roots trace back to a family of refugees who landed in India during the turmoil of Partition. His father, along with countless others, arrived in Delhi with little more than the clothes on their backs and an unyielding determination to rebuild a life from scratch. The bustling refugee camps were filled with shared despair and resilience; families cooked meager meals over open flames, children played amidst makeshift tents, and adults clung to the hope that this new soil would someday feel like home. Sanjeev’s father, Mr SL Batra, embodied the spirit of that generation—men and women who transformed hardship into resolve. A man of quiet strength, he worked tirelessly to educate himself, walking miles to borrow books and study under dim lantern lights. Through sheer grit and self-belief, he became a Chartered Accountant, creating not just a profession but a legacy of perseverance for his family.
Sanjeev grew up in this modest but nurturing environment, where values of integrity and hard work were not merely taught but lived. “Growing up, I saw my father take challenges headon, turning setbacks into stepping stones,” he recalls. Those early days were filled with stories of survival and reinvention, as Delhi itself grew to accommodate its new inhabitants. The family settled in one of Delhi’s emerging colonies, a melting pot of refugee families rebuilding their identities, where neighbors became extended family and every small success was celebrated collectively.
“Passion turns the impossible into reality.”
Phase 2
The Leap Into Hospitality &
Real Estate: Breathing Life
Into Delhi’s Heritage
Dr. Sanjeev Batra’s foray into hospitality and real estate wasn’t born of experience—it was born of passion. For him, Mehrauli, with its tangled history and forgotten treasures, wasn’t just a neighborhood; it was an invitation. This historical pocket of Delhi, home to ancient caravan serais, and the towering and majestic Qutub Minar, was waiting for someone to listen to its stories and breathe new life into itsfading echoes.
Where others saw decay, Dr. Sanjeev Batra saw potential. His journey began with acquiring a few crumbling serais, ancient traveler inns that had long been overlooked and forgotten – and left to become ruins. “People thought I was crazy,” he recalls, laughing at the memory of skeptics. “But I could feel the soul of the place, and I knew these ruins held treasures that could inspire the future.”
Mehrauli wasn’t always the vibrant cultural hub it is today. Back then, it was a sleepy patchwork of forests, villages, and forgotten structures. Yet, to Dr. Sanjeev Batra, its charm lay precisely in its unpolished edges. He envisioned a transformation—not by replacing the old but by gently celebrating it.
Surprisingly, the very bureaucracy that is known to create hurdles rose to help and guide him. Wherever Dr. Sanjeev Batra faced challenges, someone turned up to help him. Securing approvals with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) was easy as they were happy that someone was working towards restoration. The ASI helped in ensuring that the restoration process adhered to historical integrity. No doubt - there were some roadblocks but his resolve only grew stronger. “Heritage preservation is not for the faint-hearted,” he admits. “But it’s a cause worth fighting for.”
Building upon the vision, Dr. Sanjeev Batra alongwith his wife Shelly formed Friends of Heritage, a society dedicated to safeguarding and rejuvenating crumbling heritage structures. His son, Samegh Batra embraced this ethos upon his return from abroad. Drawing inspiration from his father’s legacy, Samegh decided to join the family line of business, focused on heritage preservation, but with a fresh, innovative approach. This marked a pivotal shift as he steered House of Sunrydge towards becoming a platform that not only championed restoration but also adapted these historic structures for contemporary use. Samegh’s vision brought in a new dimension—blending traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality to revitalize heritage sites for the present and future.
By 2012, Mehrauli had transformed into Delhi’s Style Mile—a stunning blend of heritage and modernity. The family’s next
project was a landmark: The Kila, a 100-year-old musafirkhana reinvented as a cultural and nightlife hub. It was a bold step
into the heart of Delhi’s evolving social fabric. The jewel of The Kila was Blue Frog, a premier nightclub
housed in the ancient structure. Designed with cutting-edge sound, light, and projection technology, Blue Frog brought Delhi’s nightlife alive with an eclectic mix of music. From jazz and blues to electronic and classical, the venue became a stage for both Indian and international artists. “The Kila isn’t just a place to unwind,” Dr. Sanjeev Batra explains. “It is a space where music, art, and history collide.”
The Kila wasn’t just about music. It became home to an array of experiences that drew in diverse audiences. Azimuth, Chefs’ Studio, served a rotating seasonal menu crafted by international chefs, offering gastronomic journeys tailored for Delhi’s discerning food lovers. Meanwhile, boutiques and style stores like Evoluzione provided a modern touch, proving skeptics wrong as footfall soared.
“How could any experience be complete without food and fashion?” Various fashion brands followed & it was the answer to the need of the people for bridal shopping. The Kila brings the global to Delhi’s doorstep.”
For Dr. Sanjeev Batra, Style Mile was never just about business. It was about creating a cultural renaissance in Delhi, where heritage could be celebrated, preserved, and repurposed to meet contemporary needs. “Upholding the principle of preservation is crucial in a time when glass and steel towers threaten to erase our beautiful history,” he reflects. His projects stand as a testament to the power of vision and resilience, proving that the old and the new can coexist in harmony.
Today, as the vibrant streets of Style Mile continue to buzz with energy, they serve as a reminder of one man’s dream to transform forgotten ruins into thriving cultural spaces. Dr. Sanjeev Batra’s work is a tribute to Delhi’s rich past and its limitless future—a testament to the timeless charm of this city and its stories waiting to be told.
Musafirkhanas, also known as serais or taverns, were essential havens for travelers navigating the vast trade routes of the subcontinent. Positioned strategically around Mehrauli, these inns provided shelter, safety, and solace to merchants, adventurers, and royalty alike. The Kila stood out as a hub of activity, offering not only rest but also entertainment, local brews, and a taste of Delhi’s vibrant culture. Its central courtyard hosted cockfights, theatrical performances, and gatherings where art and craft flourished.
As centuries passed, Delhi grew from the historic Dilli into a bustling modern metropolis. The Kila, too, adapted to these changes. Once a shelter for weary travelers, it became a landmark of elegance and exclusivity. Painstakingly restored, the building retains its historical essence, with its Indian-style architecture, large terraces, and expansive driveway.
Today, The Kila offers a unique blend of past and present. Its fine dining restaurant, Q’la, serves global cuisine with spectacular views of the Qutub Minar, while its high-end boutiques showcase the creations of India’s finest designers, including Anamika Khanna, Ritu Kumar, and Masaba. The venue has become a stage for cultural events, celebrating music, theater, and art.
The story of The Kila is intertwined with Delhi’s history. It was a place of intrigue, romance, and even rebellion, hosting merchants, nobles, and thrill-seekers. Tales of highwaymen, royal connections, and spirited gatherings echo through its walls. Despite the passage of time, its essence as a gathering place for creativity and culture remains unchanged.
Dr. Sanjeev Batra’s travels to well-organized cities abroad, such as London, Paris, Prague, Budapest & New York, have deeply influenced his perspective on how heritage can coexist with progress. He often reflects on iconic locations like Oxford Street, where the historic architecture has been thoughtfully maintained while adapting to contemporary needs. It’s a model of how heritage can be both preserved and repurposed to stay relevant in the ever-evolving landscape of modern commerce.
“No dream is realized alone.”
Phase 3 : Acknowledging the Hands That Built the Dream
Dr. Sanjeev Batra’s journey to success is deeply intertwined with the people who have supported him at every stage, a reminder that no achievement is truly a solo endeavor. Behind his every milestone is a collective effort—especially the unwavering presence of those closest to him. At the core of his journey is his wife Shelly, the true backbone of everything he has achieved. “While I was out chasing dreams, she ensured our home remained strong, organized, and filled with love,” Dr. Sanjeev Batra reflects with a warm smile. Though he’s always out building legacies, it’s clear that his wife runs the home with a grace and determination that he admires deeply. “She’s the boss at home,” he chuckles. “I sometimes feel like an outsider in my own house! But I wouldn’t have it any other way—she’s the heart of our family.”
Dr. Sanjeev’s sons, Samegh and Suvrat, have each brought fresh perspectives to the family business, with Samegh leading the way in the preservation and adaptive reuse of heritage. “Samegh has a vision that blends the old with the new,” Dr. Sanjeev Batra says proudly. “He’s the bridge between the traditions we cherish and the future we’re building.” Suvrat, with his project One Golden Mile, has played his part in ensuring the business continues to evolve, offering his insights and contributing in ways that make the family business thrive in an ever-changing world. His daughter-inlaw’s Tanvir & Manpria & his grandchildren Ruhaan, Aryavir & Naaz are the centre-point of his life
- A Doting Grandpa and a Thorough Family Man: Embracing the Circle of Life
Dr. Sanjeev Batra’s life is a beautiful reflection of the simple joys that come with being a family man—dedicated not just to his children Samegh, his wife Tanvir & Suvrat, his wife Manpria but also to his role as a loving grandfather to Ruhaan, Aryavir & Naaz. Every morning, he takes his grandchild to school, an act that means more to him than just the drive. “I do this for my children what my father did for us,” he shares with a smile, his eyes softening with affection. “Life truly comes full circle.”It’s moments like these, amidst the hustle of business and heritage restoration, that remind him of the values he wants to pass down to future generations.
Every step of the way, Dr. Sanjeev Batra has embraced his responsibilities not just as a businessman, but as a father, grandfather, and community member. In everything he does, he aims to build a legacy that honors his roots while nurturing future generations. It’s a quiet, steadfast commitment to family, nature, and heritage that truly defines him. Through his actions, he reminds us all that the simplest things—whether it’s driving a grandchild to school, sharing a meaningful first, or preserving a piece of history—are often the most profound and lasting.
“India’s soul lies in its stories.”
Phase 4 : Dedication To India’s Heritage
For Dr. Sanjeev Batra, preserving heritage is more than just a professional pursuit; it is a deep-rooted passion and a sacred duty. Each project he undertakes is a tribute to the rich history of India, an attempt to safeguard its boundless cultural wealth for future generations. “India’s heritage isn’t just about the past; it’s a guide for the future,” he says, reflecting on the timeless lessons embedded in the monuments, arts, and crafts of the country.
“हर ईंट जो मैंनेलगवाई है, उसमेंभारत के इतिहास की गूं ज है,” Dr. Sanjeev Batra shares with pride, underscoring his belief that each brick laid in the restoration of a heritage site echoes the stories of India’s glorious past. For him, every monument saved is a thread that ties the present to a rich legacy, and every structure that is brought back to life holds the memories and aspirations of generations. Dr. Sanjeev Batra’s work goes beyond preserving buildings; it’s about empowering communities. By involving local artisans in restoration, he helps preserve traditional skills and ensures heritage remains connected to the people who have nurtured it. “Heritage belongs to the people,” he says. “It’s our collective responsibility to protect and celebrate it.”
For him, every restoration—whether a historic fort or a quiet garden—connects the past with the present. His efforts ensure that heritage, culture, and community remain alive and meaningful for future generations. In a fast-changing city like Delhi, his work is a reminder to honor the past while shaping a thoughtful, sustainable future.
“हेरेटेज प्रिजर्वेशन का जो पोटेंशियल है, वो अभी तक समझ नहीं आया है सबको। जैसेग्रेट वॉल ऑफ चाइना है, वैसे हमारे पास कुम्भलगढ़ जैसे अनमोल रत्न हैं, जो लोगों को पता ही नहीं। इन्हें बचाना और सं भालना अब हमारी जिम्मेदारी है,” shares Dr. Sanjeev Batra.
“Success means nothing unless it uplifts others.”
Phase 5 : A Life of Gratitude & Legacy
Today, Dr. Sanjeev Batra is more than a successful entrepreneur; he is a custodian of India’s heritage, a mentor, and a proud father and grandfather. His journey reflects a quiet strength, thoughtful introspection, and an unwavering dedication to creating a better world for generations to come. Reflecting on his life, Dr. Sanjeev Batra remains humble. “Whatever I’ve achieved, it’s because of the people who believed in me and the values I grew up with,” he says. These values, rooted in simplicity and gratitude, have guided him through every milestone, whether it’s restoring a historic structure, mentoring the next generation, or cherishing his role as a family man.
For Dr. Sanjeev Batra, life is about balance. Amid the grandeur of preserving India’s past, he never forgets the importance of living in the present. He speaks passionately about traveling, exploring, and truly enjoying life. “Travel opens your mind; it’s where you find stories, inspiration, and the joy of living,” he shares with a sparkle in his eye. His philosophy of life extends to celebrating every moment meaningfully. As a family, they have a tradition of planting trees on birthdays and anniversaries, a gesture that signifies their commitment to the future. “It’s our way of giving back—a simple effort that reminds us we’re connected to something bigger,” he says with pride.
To Dr. Sanjeev Batra, every effort, no matter how small, is a step toward preserving not just structures but the spirit of a nation. “India’s heritage is a gift,” he concludes, “and I dedicate my life’s work to ensuring that gift is cherished by generations to come. ”As he looks ahead, Dr. Sanjeev Batra remains steadfast in his commitment to blending the past with the future. His message is simple yet profound:
“Celebrate your roots. Preserve your heritage. Embrace life. And always keep moving forward.”