"The Taj has Been a Symbol of the Strength and the Resilience of the Indian People"

MUMBAI, India, November 8, 2010 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- President Obama is on a 10-day tour of Asia with his first halt in India, to nurture and strengthen the special relationship USA has with India. The First Lady and President Obama stayed at the iconic Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai where he paid respect to the victims of 26/11 and expressed solidarity.

In a commemorative speech overlooking the Gateway of India from The Taj Mahal Palace terrace, President Obama paid tribute to the city of Mumbai and the Taj. Mr. Obama is spending three valuable days in India, the longest amount of time he has spent in any foreign country as President.

"...our decision to begin our visit here in this dynamic city, at this historic hotel... To those who have asked whether this is intended to send a message, my answer is simply, absolutely! ...Mumbai is a symbol of the incredible energy and optimism that defines India in the 21st century...the Taj has been the symbol of the strength and the resilience of the Indian people."

President Barack Obama

"We are touched by this heartfelt tribute and deeply honored and grateful to him for choosing to stay at The Taj Mahal Palace on his inaugural visit to India."

Mr. Raymond Bickson, Managing Director and CEO Indian Hotels Company Ltd.

President Obama expressed similar sentiments in the guest book, writing that the United States "stands in solidarity with all of Mumbai and all of India in working to eradicate the scourge of terrorism, and we affirm our lasting friendship with the Indian people."

The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai stands restored and resplendent which is a reflection of the spirit of its people.

About Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces

Established in 1903, Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is one of Asia's largest and finest group of hotels, comprising 114 hotels in 43 locations across India with an additional 15 international hotels in the Maldives, Malaysia, Australia, UK, USA, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Africa and the Middle East. From world-renowned landmarks to modern business hotels, idyllic beach resorts to authentic Grand palaces, each Taj hotel offers an unrivalled fusion of warm Indian hospitality, world-class service and modern luxury. The Taj, a symbol of Indian hospitality, completed the centenary of its landmark hotel, The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai. Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces is part of the Tata Group, India's premier business house.

    US

    Sheila donnelly, [email protected]
    Karisa hayashi, [email protected]
    Babs harrison, [email protected]
    +1-212-851-8425

    UK

    Mary-clare Gribbon, [email protected]
    +44(0)20-7259-1100

SOURCE Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces