The story begins when Kamlabai Saheb, the daughter of Sardar Manyajirao Ingle married H.H. Shrimant Rajashri Shahaji III Chhatrapati Maharaj (Buwa Sahib), the Raja of Kolhapur, the Ingle family of Shendur in the former Kagal Jagir, moved to the erstwhile Kolhapur princely state.
The Ingles held the title of Maankari (an esteemed Nobelman) in the Kolhapur princely state Durbar (ruling court) and over the years served in various other positions and capacities such as Shikar (Hunting) Superintendent, Military Secretary, ADC, Lashkar Fad Kamdar, and Guardian of Rajashree Shahu Chhatrapati.
Colonel Nanasaheb Dattajirao Ingle was the Maankari of the Kolhapur State Durbar and also Military Secretary and ADC to His Highness Rajaram Chhatrapati, the Maharaja of Kolhapur. With his incredible ability to change with time, he steered us into the field of business! Colonel Nanasaheb Ingle opened Padma Talkies in 1941, named after Padmaraje, princess of Kolhapur followed by Padma Guest House on 15th August 1947 as a celebration of India’s Independence. Over the years, my father late Shri Dhairyasheelrao Nanasaheb Ingle ensured that these establishments grew and thrived under the right business ethics.
One day in his soft humble voice he whispered to me “people remember the way you make them feel” which later went on to become our service philosophy.
Ekant was started with a vision to share this unique lifestyle of our forefathers with you; to bring you closer to the homes they built which now are yours to experience. At Ekant we don’t just welcome you to a resort or a holiday home, we welcome you to a state of mind- Ekantism. Which we as a family have experienced over generations at these locations that we share with you.
Today Gauri and I, along with both our children Shaturnjai and Aaryamaan continue to put our best foot forward to live up to the founding ethics and commitment to quality our family established in 1941.
We welcome you to experience the nostalgic memories of the bygone era, to celebrate the outdoors, to have a unique escapade with “Ekantism”- wellness and mindfulness- the new mantras of good and healthy living.
Warm Regards
Ruturaj Dhairyasheelrao Ingle
