Roshan Melwani, the flamboyant proprietor of Sam’s Tailor, a renowned Hong Kong establishment, embodies the city’s vibrant character. This bespoke tailor, nestled within a bustling Kowloon skyscraper, boasts a clientele that reads like a who’s who of global icons. From US presidents and British royalty to Hollywood A-listers and even football star Harry Kane, the walls of Sam’s Tailor are adorned with photographs commemorating these distinguished patrons, each having acquired a meticulously handcrafted suit from the workshops above the shop. Melwani, a prominent figure on Hong Kong’s social media scene, inherited the tailoring mantle from his father, Manu, a recent MBE recipient. While his inaugural fitting was with the esteemed Desmond Tutu, Melwani’s true passion lies not just in threads, but in thoroughbreds.
Beyond the world of bespoke suits and his own branded beer, Melwani finds solace and exhilaration at the racetrack. A devoted racing enthusiast, he co-owns Karma, a six-year-old racehorse trained by local legend Caspar Fownes. Karma, a horse with a substantial fan base, has brought Melwani immense joy, culminating in the triumphant victory at the prestigious £315,000 140th HKJC Anniversary Cup. This win, a shared family triumph, solidified Karma’s place in Melwani’s heart and further ignited his son’s burgeoning passion for the sport. The escalating wins and the public’s growing adoration for Karma have fueled Melwani’s excitement, likening his journey to the iconic Rocky Balboa’s underdog story.
Melwani’s exuberant celebrations in the winner’s enclosure, often reminiscent of John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever, have become almost as famous as Karma itself. Initially met with bewilderment by the traditionally reserved local racing community, his unrestrained displays of joy have gradually won over the skeptics. What once drew criticism and bewilderment has transformed into an anticipated spectacle, with the crowds now eagerly awaiting Melwani’s distinctive celebratory dance. His infectious enthusiasm has injected a new level of excitement into the Hong Kong racing scene, transforming the winner’s enclosure into a stage for his impromptu performances.
This narrative weaves together the threads of family tradition, entrepreneurial spirit, and the thrill of horse racing. Roshan Melwani, the second-generation tailor, embraces his dual passions with unrestrained enthusiasm. He seamlessly navigates the world of high-end fashion, catering to the sartorial needs of the elite, while simultaneously immersing himself in the exhilarating world of horse racing. His unwavering commitment to both pursuits, and his distinctive jubilant celebrations, have cemented his status as a vibrant and unforgettable character in the tapestry of Hong Kong.
The seemingly incongruous worlds of high fashion and horse racing coalesce in Melwani’s life, demonstrating his multifaceted personality and his ability to find joy and success in diverse arenas. He embodies the spirit of Hong Kong, a city where tradition meets modernity and where larger-than-life personalities thrive. His story is a testament to the power of passion, the importance of family, and the exhilarating pursuit of dreams, whether on the racetrack or within the confines of a tailor shop. Melwani’s journey exemplifies how seemingly disparate passions can intertwine to create a uniquely fulfilling and vibrant life.
From the meticulous craftsmanship of bespoke tailoring to the electrifying atmosphere of the racetrack, Melwani embraces every facet of his life with infectious enthusiasm. His story resonates not just within the Hong Kong community, but also with anyone who dares to pursue their passions with unwavering dedication and celebrates their successes with uninhibited joy. He stands as a testament to the notion that life is a rich tapestry, woven together by the threads of our diverse interests and experiences, and that true success lies in finding joy in the journey, regardless of the destination.
