26/11: Taj is family, says GM who lost everything

Mumbai: It was one of the most heart-wrenching stories of 26/11. And one of fortitude and extreme commitment. While Karambir Kang, general manager of the Taj Hotel, along with his staff, tirelessly helped hotel guests, his wife and two sons died in the terrorist attack.

A few days later, when the doors of the scarred Taj were reopened as a symbol of the nation's resilience, Kang was at the forefront yet again. An icon himself for an entire grieving, but resolute, country. Pics: Taj Hotel, a year after 26/11

As a year to 26/11 nears, Kang tells NDTV that his wounds are unlikely to heal, and that the Taj is his family. "I don't think I will ever heal but this is my family and being here does help me," he says.

Kang says that after 26/11, hospitality and security don't go together. "However, we are trying to strike a balance."

The hotel is what Kang is focused on now. "You need to do what you believe in. My heart is in the hotel and it's important for me to contribute positively and make it among the finest hotels," he says. Right now, he is satisfied at the work going on before its grand reopening.

"Given what has happened, the mood is very sombre and upbeat. The staff has shown remarkable resilience, and there has been immense support from the whole world. We are looking forward to the reopening," he says.

Describing the renovation, he says elements of the new Taj will be visible soon. "We are redoing all the rooms; new IT systems are being installed. We will be providing new services like butler service throughout the palace."

He also says that the hotel has re-trained its staff in all aspects of safety and the chefs have travelled all over the world. Kang says the hotel's footfalls have increased.

He'd clearly rather talk about his hotel. About himself he only says: "I don't think one can ever totally heal from such a tragedy, but I am doing the best I can, and taking each day as it comes and let's see how things go in the future."