Embarking on a transformative journey from bustling metro cities to enchanting jungles, working at the historic Gogunda Palace and immersing himself in a heritage-filled life, Vishva Vardhan’s diverse experiences have sculpted the entrepreneur he is today. With unwavering determination, he successfully transformed a modest wilderness camp into a thriving venture.

Born in Ajmer in 1991 but raised in the culturally rich town of Gogunda near Udaipur, Vishva Vardhan Singh Jhala is a trailblazing entrepreneur in the hospitality industry. His crowning achievement is Leopard's Paradise, a luxury camp nestled in Jawai, which he and his partners skillfully developed in July 2022.

Reflecting on his formative years, Vishva Vardhan recalls that he came from a service-class family, with his grandfather in state administration services and his father in the hotel industry. Despite being given a free hand to pursue his passions, his father's dedication to the hotel business influenced him to dive into the hospitality sector. Witnessing his father adeptly manage family, business, and staff left an indelible mark on him.

Detailing his career trajectory, Vishva Vardhan divulges that post-graduation, his culinary journey unfolded. Inspired by the vibrant delicacies prepared by his mother during his childhood, he enrolled himself into the Culinary School of the University of Huddersfield, UK and honed his culinary skills, eventually graduating from the Institute of Hotel Management, Aurangabad.

His culinary prowess found expression in fusion cuisine at the Sheraton Hotel, Bangalore. However, a vacation to Jawai ignited in him a passion for wildlife, prompting him to join Taj Safari, India's premier wilderness lounges, as a lounge chef. Promotions followed, and he became the regional executive chef, exploring both culinary art and the untamed beauty of the jungle. Moreover, he was excited to learn about the jungle cuisine which was completely made out of local ingredients. He says that although it took time for him to learn everything, it was all worth it. The most fascinating dish that he learnt was the stuffed bamboo chicken. He also takes the credit of inventing the Mahua muffins.

Family circumstances brought him back to Udaipur, and he started managing Gogunda Palace for Amrita Resorts and Palaces. Enthusiastically renovating the 40-room palace, he blended modernity with cultural heritage. He explored the entire region of Gogunda, the Aravalli hills, the Bhil tribe and the forestry. He also introduced the guests to the local culture and the topography of the region. He illustrates the historical significance of the place and its links to Maharana Pratap.

Despite the loss of his father in 2018, Vishva Vardhan's resilience, fueled by his mother's support, led to professional success. Transferred to Jawai, he rose to become the Director of Food and Beverages for the Rajasthan region, co-establishing Leopard's Paradise with his partners. Highlighting six cottages and a pool amidst granite boulders and lush jungles, he invites all to experience the allure of Leopard's Paradise. He emphasises the beauty of the surrounding Granite boulders, the jungle and the leopards which are witnessed in the drives to reach the hilltop.

Beyond entrepreneurship, his venture aims to immerse the younger generation in the wilderness through educational tours, safaris, and a glimpse into life four decades ago. Advocating for the serenity found in nature, he fosters experiences like nature walks, leopard drives, bird watching, and the soothing symphony of air, water, and birds. He aims to make Jawai a heritage tourism village.

Inspirational words like "Look for the light which is above all '' resonate deeply with him, by which he means that there are people around you who truly care and you just need to look around and recognize them. He is grateful for the unwavering support of his mother and sister post his father's demise.

Vishwa Vardhan encourages aspiring hospitality professionals to understand that success is a product of sustained hard work. He urges them to focus on their passion, explore and share their ideas with the people who have already achieved so much in the sector.

For the youth, his advice extends to leveraging social media positively, sharing ideas, connecting with like minded people, and contributing to the nation.

Recounting his jungle escapades, Vishva Vardhan vividly recalls a near-electrifying experience in Pench National Park when lightning struck perilously close to their camp and a close encounter with a majestic tiger in Panna Wildlife Sanctuary. Despite the breathtaking beauty, he reflects on the unsettling truth that nature's allure is a captivating dance between awe and terror.