Set amid the hushed grandeur of the Aravalli hills, where marble corridors glow softly in the shifting light and time seems to move at a gentler pace, Raffles Jaipur is preparing to unveil a wellness experience that goes far beyond the physical. Rooted in emotional well-being, meaningful connection and India’s ancient healing wisdom, the upcoming retreat brings together the refined sanctuary of Raffles Jaipur and the transformative teachings of global wellness mentor Dawn Harlow. More than a retreat, it is conceived as an intimate journey inward—one where luxury is measured not by excess, but by stillness, presence and emotional depth.
In an exclusive to Devender Grover, Editor in Chief, Travel Span, Mr Rajat Sethi,
Cluster General Manager of Raffles and Fairmont hotels, and Ms
Dawn Harlow reveal how this collaboration seeks to create a space where guests feel held, renewed and quietly transformed, carrying with them a sense of clarity and inner sovereignty long after they leave the palace behind.
Mr Rajat Sethi –
Q1. What was the strategic vision behind partnering with global wellness mentor Dawn Harlow for this upcoming retreat at Raffles Jaipur?
At Raffles Jaipur, we believe true wellbeing is both emotional and experiential, and emotional wellbeing is one of our strongest passions. We create experiences that are graceful, soulful, and deeply attuned to the individual, and we wanted this retreat to reflect the quiet magic of Raffles, a place where guests feel gently held and understood. Partnering with Dawn Harlow felt like a natural extension of this vision. Her intuitive, heartfelt approach mirrors the serenity and emotional depth we offer our guests. Together, we hope to create a retreat that feels intimate, restorative, and beautifully aligned with the timeless spirit of Raffles Jaipur.
Q2. How does this retreat reflect Raffles’ broader wellness philosophy centred on emotional well-being and meaningful connection?
The essence of Raffles has always been about creating a sanctuary where time slows, and the spirit finds space to breathe. This retreat is a true expression of that philosophy. It invites guests to reconnect with themselves through mindful practices, intimate circles, and moments of quiet reflection. We believe that emotional well-being grows from meaningful connections both with one’s inner world and with the people who guide that journey. Through this thoughtfully designed retreat, we hope to evoke a sense of belonging, openness, and inner harmony that stays with our guests long after they leave.
Q3. As India is globally recognised as the birthplace of yoga and holistic healing, how has Raffles Jaipur integrated this heritage into the retreat’s design and ethos?
Raffles Jaipur stands proudly on land where wellness is not a trend, but a timeless inheritance. In shaping this retreat, we allowed India’s spiritual and cultural wisdom to guide us. The practices are rooted in ancient yogic traditions, the rituals draw from the country’s healing lineage, and the serene architecture of our hotel provides an environment that naturally lends itself to introspection. Every element from the cuisine to the meditative spaces celebrates India’s legacy of awakening and balance, presented with the elegance and sensitivity that Raffles is known for.
Q4. Raffles Jaipur is celebrated for its architectural serenity and royal ambience. How will the property’s environment enhance the overall guest experience during the retreat?
Raffles Jaipur’s architecture naturally lends itself to serenity. During the retreat, this environment becomes an integral part of the healing journey. The stillness of our architecture, the gentle play of light across marble corridors, and the quiet corners designed for pause all support the emotional depth of Dawn’s sessions. Guests feel cocooned in a setting that encourages them to reconnect with themselves. The property itself acts as a gentle companion in their journey, adding a sense of timeless grace to every moment.
Q5. What lasting impact or transformation do you hope participants will carry with them after completing this retreat at Raffles Jaipur?
I hope that each participant carries home a sense of inner quietude, clarity, and emotional ease. If, during their time with us, they discover a moment that shifts something within them, whether it is peace, release, or a new understanding of themselves, that would be the true success of this retreat. We want them to remember Raffles Jaipur not only as a place of beauty, but as a place where they felt seen, supported, and renewed. If they leave feeling more aligned with the best version of themselves, then the retreat will have fulfilled its purpose with grace.
Ms. Dawn Harlow
1. Journey into Wellness: What inspired you to pursue Kundalini Yoga and spiritual Coaching as your life’s work?
My journey began during a time of profound inner metamorphosis. I was living in London, in a white stucco mansion block in one of the most expensive neighbourhoods in the world, married to a hedge fund manager and moving through life as a socialite and successful model. On the outside, I had everything. On the inside, I was hollow. I realised that despite the world’s perception of success, I felt empty and detached from myself. I had everything,Yet somehow nothing at all. This longing for meaning led me to ask a single question: Who am I and why am I here? My search for truth and purpose took me across the world, exploring the most powerful healing modalities. It was eventually in the Maldives, suspended above the ocean in a Kundalini Yoga class, where I found myself again. In that moment, I felt a deep remembrance of who Ionce was and an awakening to who I was becoming.
Kundalini transformed me quickly and profoundly. In just ninety minutes, my state of being, my thoughts and my energy shifted. I realised I did not need to suffer; I could reclaim my identity, my peace and my power. I became my own best friend again. As I stepped off the sand that day, I made a promise to share these teachings with the world. People deserve to be free, joyful, courageous and fulfilled. I found a science of brilliance that unlocks our highest creative potential. In that moment, I knew my life’s work was to serve humanity through these teachings, and I have kept that promise ever since.
2. Raffles Jaipur Collaboration: What drew you to host a wellness retreat at Raffles Jaipur, and how does the palace’s heritage enhance the retreat experience?
I was immediately drawn to Raffles Jaipur for its exquisite expression of luxury. The brand has always stood for elegance, refinement and meticulous attention to detail, qualities I also embody in my work. This particular Raffles, set in Jaipur, felt divinely aligned with the essence of Kundalini Yoga. India is the birthplace of yoga, and Jaipur is a land of kings and queens. Kundalini Yoga is known as Raj Yoga, the royal yoga, once kept secret for centuries because of its extraordinary power to elevate consciousness, magnetism, radiance and prosperity. It was practised by royalty and those entrusted with leadership and wisdom. Hosting a retreat in a palace that celebrates this regal lineage felt perfectly destined. Rajasthan itself carries the vibration of the Rajas, a force of creation, power and manifestation. The palace mirrors the very essence of what Kundalini offers: the reclamation of one’s inner crown, the awakening of intuitive command and the rising of one’s sovereign self. I must also acknowledge Rajat Sethi and his exceptional team. Their values, philosophy and devotion to guest experience aligned deeply with my own. Together, Raffles Jaipur and Kundalini Yoga create an environment where men and women can return home to their vitality, joy, radiance and personal throne. It is a place where people remember that they are the king or queen of their own life and destiny.
3. Retreat Experience: Could you give us a glimpse of a typical day at your exclusive retreat?
A typical day at the retreat begins in the ambrosial hours, the most sacred time to cleanse the subconscious mind and create emotional balance for the day. These early morning practices are gentle, devotional and deeply transformative. They are often the favourite part of my clients’ experience. After practice, we rise with the sun, opening our eyes as its first light touches Jaipur’s mountains. This alignment with nature creates a calm, energised and radiant start to the day. Breakfast is enjoyed together, followed by free time to rest, reflect or explore. Late morning, we gather for a more dynamic session of breathwork, yoga, meditation and mantra. After each practice, we sit in a circle, creating a safe and loving environment to share thoughts, emotions and revelations. Afternoons are yours to enjoy. Guests often relax by the pool, indulge in the spa or explore Jaipur with guided visits to iconic sites. Some choose to go shopping with the hotel’s butlers, who curate beautiful experiences. At sunset, we meet again for a soothing evening practice to close the day with serenity before a sumptuous dinner. Each guest also receives personalised one-to-one time with me, and throughout the week, we work on their dreams, goals and visions so that when they leave, they have a clear action plan for meaningful change. Our upcoming retreat during Holi will be a breathtaking celebration of colour, joy, spirit and renewal. It will invite guests to awaken new visions for their life, embracing the kaleidoscope of their inner world. Life is colour. Love it, breathe it, be it.
4. Transformation Goals: What does true transformation mean for participants?
Transformation is the process of changing one’s energetic state, perspective and inner compass. Every guest arrives with a unique story and intention. Before the retreat begins, I spend time understanding exactly what they wish to shift, feel or resolve so that I can guide them with precision and intuitive clarity. What many do not realise is that transformation begins even before they arrive. An energetic field starts forming around them, preparing, cleansing and supporting their journey. It is magical to witness. True transformation is when a person reconnects to their essence. It is when clarity replaces confusion, vitality replaces exhaustion, and peace replaces emotional turbulence. It is the moment they remember who they are and step into the energy they have always wished to embody. Transformation is not an idea; it is an experience, a shift in one’s entire being.
5. Guest Experience: What do you hope participants take away emotionally and spiritually?
We are living in a world where people are exhausted, overwhelmed and afraid of what the future holds. Even those who appear successful often feel empty inside. Many are navigating heartbreak, loss, career shifts, disconnection, financial uncertainty and profound emotional freeze. This freeze mode numbs both pain and joy, leading to what we call a cold depression. In eighteen years of guiding people, I have seen again and again that the retreat dissolves this numbness. Guests leave with renewed vitality, clarity, creativity and emotional freedom. Anxiety and depression ease, burnout lifts, relationships become clearer, and a renewed gratitude for life returns. They regain trust in themselves. Most importantly, they leave with a “keep up spirit,” a sense of enthusiasm and purpose to continue their journey with dignity, courage and joy. As one of my retreaters beautifully said, “I realised that all that was missing was me.”
6. Message to Travellers: What would you say to those visiting Raffles Jaipur or beginning a wellness journey in India for the first time?
My first advice is to release every expectation you have about India. Arrive with an open heart and allow her to surprise you. India is not a place you visit; it is an experience that transforms you.
She is loud, loving, magical and deeply devotional. She holds you in her arms, teaches you truths about yourself, and reminds you of who you are meant to be. She awakens gratitude, humility and awe. The people love you exactly as you are, and the land gives you a wisdom you didn’t know you needed. India changes you before you even step onto a yoga mat. She becomes the inspiration, the creativity and the love you did not realise you were missing. And Raffles Jaipur, with its regal grace, is calling gently to those ready to step into their next chapter. Do not wait. Do not overthink. Your journey is already whispering your name, and the Queen’s Palace is ready to welcome you home.
