Draft:Chandra Shekar T. M.

Chandra Shekar T. M. is an Indian hospitality entrepreneur, resort developer, and visionary leader. He is the Managing Director of Jalmahal Resort & Spa and Tropical Villages, both recognized for redefining eco-luxury and cultural tourism in Mysuru, Karnataka. His work bridges technology, architecture, sustainability, and traditional Indian values, making him one of the most influential figures in modern Indian hospitality.

Early Life & Foundation

Born on 18 August 1984 in the royal city of Mysuru, Karnataka, Chandra Shekar T. M. was raised in a family rooted in tradition, culture, and community service. His early life in rural Karnataka gave him a deep appreciation for nature, craftsmanship, and simplicity. This connection with the land and people inspired his later efforts to create businesses that honor both environment and heritage.

Education

Chandra Shekar pursued a Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Information Science, combining his technical background with an entrepreneurial mindset. His academic training helped him integrate modern systems thinking and operational structure into the hospitality and tourism sector, a balance of logic, efficiency, and creativity.

Professional Journey

Armed with an engineering degree, Chandra Shekar blended innovation with hospitality management to pioneer transformative ideas in the tourism industry.

As the Managing Director of Jalmahal Resort & Spa, he revitalized one of Mysuru’s landmark hospitality properties. The resort embodies royal heritage architecture, personalized service, and modern amenities — earning it recognition as a leading destination in southern India.

His flagship vision, Tropical Villages, represents India’s first seven-continent-themed eco-luxury agritourism project. Each themed village — Asian, African, European, North American, and others — reflects regional culture, architecture, cuisine, and traditions while maintaining ecological integrity. Through this venture, he positioned Mysuru as a global hub for cultural exchange and sustainable tourism.

Vision & Philosophy

Chandra Shekar’s leadership philosophy centers on simplicity, authenticity, and sustainability. Guided by Japanese life principles — Kaizen (Continuous Improvement), Ikigai (Purpose), Wabi-Sabi (Imperfection), Shoshin (Beginner’s Mind), Hara Hachibu (Mindful Living), Shinrin-Yoku (Nature Connection), and Ganbaru (Perseverance) — he cultivates an organizational culture rooted in ethics and mindfulness.

His personal and professional mantra, “Preserve the Past, Inspire the Future,” defines his approach to both hospitality design and leadership development. Each of his projects embodies this balance — a tribute to tradition with a modern global perspective.

Leadership & Achievements

  • Founder of Tropical Villages, an eco-luxury agritourism model integrating global themes with Indian culture.
  • Managing Director of Jalmahal Resort & Spa, a premier heritage-inspired property in Mysuru.
  • Introduced the Pancha Pandavas Leadership Model to promote team ethics, balance, and collaboration.
  • Created the When–Where–Why–How Operational Framework, a management system improving efficiency across departments.
  • Strong advocate for eco-conscious hospitality, local employment generation, and zero-waste operations.
  • Mentors young professionals through OJT (On-the-Job Training) programs and academic partnerships with hospitality institutes across India.
  • Promotes responsible tourism that supports both the local community and global travelers.

Legacy & Purpose

Chandra Shekar’s vision extends beyond building resorts — it is about creating experiences that connect people, nature, and tradition. His life’s work reflects the philosophy that luxury can coexist with simplicity, and growth can harmonize with sustainability.

Through his ventures, he aims to establish Mysuru as a model for sustainable and experiential tourism in India, where culture and ecology thrive together.

Personal Life

Chandra Shekar lives in Mysuru, Karnataka. Known for his humility, discipline, and spiritual outlook, he continues to lead by example — inspiring his team and community through kindness, innovation, and dedication to cultural preservation.

Contact & Presence