Southern India has been hit hard by heavy rainfall over the past two days, causing severe flooding in major cities like Chennai and Bengaluru. The extreme weather has disrupted daily life, forcing schools and colleges to close, triggering frequent power outages, and creating traffic chaos on waterlogged streets.
Amidst the challenges, a notable act of customer care by the Taj Hotel in Chennai, a Tata Group property, has won widespread praise on social media. The hotel extended a considerate gesture toward a guest who had to cut short his trip due to the floods.
D Prasanth Nair, a guest at the Taj, shared his experience on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), expressing gratitude for the hotel’s thoughtful response. Nair explained that he and a colleague had planned to stay in Chennai until October 16 but were forced to leave a day early due to worsening weather conditions. When Nair informed the Taj Hotel of their early departure, the hotel chose not to charge him for the unused night, citing their understanding of the weather-related situation.
In contrast, Nair's colleague, who stayed at another prominent hotel chain, was charged for both nights despite leaving early due to the floods. Nair's post commended Taj Hotels for their customer-first approach, contrasting it with the less flexible policy of the other hotel. The post quickly gained traction online, with many applauding Taj Hotels for prioritizing customer satisfaction over profit.
Other users on social media have since shared their positive experiences with Taj Hotels, reinforcing the brand's reputation for exceptional service. One user recalled leaving a shirt behind at a Taj property, only to have it returned neatly ironed via special courier. Another detailed how Taj London staff provided medical assistance to his wife after she suffered a foot injury, going out of their way to ensure her comfort during a late-night emergency.
Many commenters connected these stories to the values established by Ratan Tata, the former chairman of the Tata Group, whose legacy continues to influence the company’s business practices. One user summed up the sentiment, stating, "You can't beat Ratan Tata's legacy."
As southern India grapples with the fallout from the floods, acts of kindness like these have resonated with many, offering a silver lining amid the challenges faced by residents and travellers alike.