Dynamics of a tradition

India has a rich tradition of historical research but for various reasons entrepreneurial history has received less attention than it deserves. Consequently the empirical base of understanding managerial dynamics in India as it has evolved from the past is not very strong. The present volume is an effort to understand, both historically and in contemporary terms, the growth of one of the leading business groups in India.

Kasturbhal Lalbhai's family traces its ancestry to Shantidas Zaveri, a leading businessman of Ahmedabad in the 17th century. The family has remained at the forefront of Indian business ever since. With seven textile mills, a starch company, and one of the largest and most sophisticated chemicals and pharmaceutical complexes in the country, Kasturbhai's group occuples a significant position in our industrial life today.

The present position of this group is mainly due to the leadership of Kasturbhai Lalbhai (1894-1980) himself who presided over its growth and expansion for well over six decades. He was not only a towering figure in the Indian business world, but also a great champion of social, educational, and cultural causes. His business success and demonstrated concern for society won for him a place of honour in contemporary India.

Having traced the history of Kasturbhai's family, Prof. Tripathi deals with the growth of the industrial enterprises of the group.