India Preserving Its Heritage
In India, stories are passed on from mouth to mouth, person to person throughout the land. Every tradition, craft, and monument reflects the deep values and intense creativity of those who have gone before us. For Dr. Samegh, these are not just markers of history; they are lessons and inspirations of what lies ahead.
From ancient serais to community gatherings, and from timeless crafts to forward-thinking innovations, the Indian heritage goes on and on with no end. In Dr. Samegh Batra’s view, it is not a privilege but a deep sense of duty to preserve, protect & conserve while finding subtle ways of carrying the correct use. His journey is as deeply woven within India’s story as he strides under the hope that the honoring of our roots would lay the foundation towards a meaningful, connected, balanced and vibrant future.
He believes in the idea that by embracing the wisdom of the past, we can shape a future that respects its origins while embracing progress
Every great journey begins with a foundation of values humility, perseverance, and the courage to dream beyond the ordinary.
Phase 1 : Humble Beginnings & Family Root
Dr. Samegh Batra’s journey to success began with his grandfather Mr SL Batra, who arrived in Delhi as a humble refugee from Pakistan. Having nothing but determination, his grandfather worked tirelessly to build a fresh life in a new country, and his efforts laid the foundation for the family’s future. As a Chartered Accountant, Samegh’s grandfather instilled a strong work ethic, perseverance, and resilience, qualities that were passed down through the generations.
Samegh’s father, Mr Sanjeev Batra, growing up with these solid values, followed in his father’s footsteps and became a Chartered Accountant as well. He built his career with the same principles of hard work and integrity that his family had embraced. As a father, Sanjeev was determined to pass on these lessons to his son, Dr. Samegh Batra, making sure the family’s values of humility, hard work, and following one’s passion stayed alive.
For Dr. Samegh Batra, this period in his childhood was transformative. He witnessed his father’s passion for heritage restoration and saw firsthand the value of chasing one’s dreams, even when others wavered. Sanjeev’s example taught Dr. Samegh Batra the importance of perseverance, legacy, and integrity, principles that would guide him throughout his own life.
True legacy isn’t just about what you inherit it’s about the values you uphold and the kindness you spread.
Phase 2 : A Steady Foundation & Embracing The Family Legacy
In 2003, as Dr. Samegh Batra was just entering his teenage years, his father’s success was evident. However, Dr. Samegh Batra also witnessed the challenges of being in a business that were laden with uncertainties. The world around them was rapidly changing and brain drain was a deep concern. Sanjeev and his wife lived with the idea that unless there was something to draw them back, their sons might one day leave India in pursuit of greener pastures. However, they didn’t wish to force their children into the family business. Instead, they worked to ensure they would gradually find their way to where their passion and interests led them.
Suvrat Batra, Dr. Samegh Batra’s younger brother, took a deep interest in hospitality operations, while Dr. Samegh Batra, the elder son, gravitated towards finances. Together, the brothers became integral parts of the family business, with Dr. Samegh Batra handling the financial aspects of their various properties, including the family’s flagship properties in Mehrauli.
Growing Up with Values : A Childhood Rooted in Kindness & Inclusivity
In a world that often values competition over compassion, true greatness lies in how we treat others, no matter their background. Dr. Samegh Batra’s childhood is a timeless reminder that kindness, inclusivity, and equality are not just values—they are the foundation of meaningful relationships and a fulfilling life Dr. Samegh Batra’s childhood was nothing short of heartwarming and exemplary. Growing up in a house bustling with laughter, mischief, and the lively chatter of children, Dr. Samegh Batra stood out for his kindness and sensitivity. While other boys in the neighborhood might shy away from playing with girls or children from less privileged backgrounds, Dr. Samegh Batra always said, “Koi baat nahi, hum khelenge,” embracing everyone as equals.
Father-Son Bonding : Lessons for Life and Business
Dr. Samegh Batra’s relationship with his father, Sanjeev, is built on respect, trust, and shared experiences. Their bond has shaped his personal and professional journey, preparing him for the future with purpose and care.From an early age, Dr. Samegh Batra and his younger brother, Suvrat, were actively involved in the family business, but their roles went beyond simply helping out. Sanjeev intentionally exposed them to the operational side of the business, involving them in meetings, decisions, and discussions, not as passive bystanders but as active participants. This hands-on approach was essential for Dr. Samegh Batra and Suvrat to pick up crucial business nuances skills early on. Whether it was managing properties, understanding finances, or developing a strategic vision, their father made sure they learned the ropes in real-time.
Bridging the past and present isn’t just about preserving history it’s about reimagining it to enrich our future.
Phase 3 : A New Era in Hospitality & Heritage Preservatio
When Dr. Samegh Batra returned to India after studying abroad, he came back with more than just qualifications. He brought a clear plan to merge the beauty of India’s heritage with the needs of modern living. Joining hands with his father, Sanjeev, he became a driving force behind the House of Sunrydge, a brand focused on preserving history through creative and sustainable reuse One of his earliest projects, The Kila at Seven Style Mile, became a model of innovation. It transformed an old property into a lively space for dining, fashion, and events, showing how traditional architecture could adapt to modern needs. This project wasn’t just about saving a building; it was about making history relevant for today’s generation, ensuring that old practices could be given new life.
- The Sarais and Musafirkhanas of Delhi
- Staying Rooted While Looking Ahead
For Dr. Samegh Batra, staying in India isn’t just about honoring family or tradition—it’s about recognizing the potential within the country and working to unlock it. He believes that India’s past and present can coexist, and it is this subtle balance that guides his work. By staying connected to his roots while embracing new ideas, Dr. Samegh Batra sets an example for others who wish to build a future without losing their identity.
- Connecting the Old with the New
Through his projects, Dr. Samegh Batra doesn’t just preserve old structures—he gives them purpose. By turning historical buildings into vibrant spaces that serve the needs of today, he ensures that India’s heritage is not just remembered but lived. His approach blends tradition with progress, proving that the two can go hand in hand to create something lasting and meaningful.
Heritage isn’t just about preserving walls it’s about preserving the soul of a place and passing its stories to the next generation
Phase 4 : The Friends of Heritage Initiative
For Dr. Samegh Batra, preserving heritage isn’t just about restoring old structures—it’s about creating a sense of connection to the past that resonates with people today. This philosophy defines his role as a leader in the Friends of Heritage, a non-profit organization established by his parents Shelly and Sanjeev Batra. With a natural ability to inspire and a deep understanding of India’s cultural wealth, Dr. Samegh Batra has carried forward the mission of Friends of Heritage: to protect, adapt, and educate.
Dr. Samegh Batra’s personality shines through his approach to this initiative. He is deeply grounded, approachable, and genuinely passionate about engaging people to the importance of India’s cultural treasures. Known for his calm yet persuasive demeanor, he doesn’t just lead from the front; he collaborates, listens, and empowers others to participate. His belief is simple yet profound: heritage belongs to everyone, and its preservation should be a collective effort.
- Reviving India’s Past with Purpose
Under Dr. Samegh’s Batra’s leadership, Friends of Heritage has launched several creative and community-driven programs that make history come alive. Initiatives like the Mehrauli Cycle Tour and Qutub Minar Walking Tours offered immersive experiences, allowing people to see history from new perspectives. Through musical storytelling sessions for children, he ensured that even the youngest minds are introduced to India’s rich history in a fun and engaging way
- A Hands-On Leader
What sets Dr. Samegh Batra apart is his hands-on approach. He is not someone who delegates and steps away; he immerses himself in every project, whether it’s planning events, brainstorming ways to engage the community, or working with craftsmen to maintain the authenticity of restored structures. He often says, “Heritage is not just about monuments; it’s about the stories they hold and the memories they create for the people who experience them.” Dr. Samegh Batra’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. His initiatives have received widespread recognition, with media outlets such as The New Indian Express, NDTV, and Hindustan Times covering his work. But for Dr. Samegh Batra, the true reward lies in seeing people connect with their heritage—whether it’s a child learning about history through a story or a visitor finding solace in the shade of a centuries-old monument.
- Heritage as a Way of Life
For Dr. Samegh Batra, heritage isn’t just a professional pursuit—it’s a way of life. He has a unique ability to envision and blend modernity with tradition, making history relatable to the present generation. His warm personality, coupled with his unwavering commitment, has turned Friends of Heritage into a persuasive movement that encourages people to care for the past while building for the future.
True growth is about balancing where you come from with where you want to go, ensuring the values you hold dear remain at the heart of every step forward.
Phase 5 : Family, Vision, and Building for Tomorrow
Dr. Samegh Batra stands at a pivotal point in his journey, carrying forward the vision his father ignited while carving out his own path. With a focus on strengthening the House of Sunrydge and a commitment to meaningful heritage conservation, Dr. Samegh Batra’s endeavors reflect a harmonious blend of honoring history and pla
But beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Samegh Batra is a family man at his core. Married to Tanvir with two children—a son Ruhaan and a daughter Naaz—he ensures his family life remains grounded and fulfilling. “We are Punjabis at heart,” he often says with a smile, emphasizing the spirit of warmth, unity, and joy that defines his household. The Batras are known for their genuine hospitality, a legacy deeply ingrained in their family ethos. Even their longtime staff, such as their driver and cook who have been with the family for over three decades, stands as a testament to the bonds they build with people around themnning for the future.
As he reflects on his journey, Dr. Samegh Batra’s words capture his mission perfectly: “Preserving heritage isn’t about living in the past it’s about ensuring the future has a rich story to connect with. It’s about making the lessons and beauty of our history a part of the lives yet to come.” Dr. Samegh Batra’s life and work inspire not just through what he has built, but in the values he continues to uphold— creating spaces that honor both the past and the future, while always keeping family and community at the heart of everything he does