Pioneer industrialist

G. D. Birla - Life and Legacy: M. M. Juneja; Modern Publishers, 1227-P, Urban Estate II, Hissar-125005, Haryana. Rs.400.

IN SEVERAL respects, Ghanshyam Das Birla (1894-1983) is a paradox. Though not even a matriculate, he is the architect of one of the best educational complexes in Pilani. Though not an active participant in the freedom struggle, he was friendly with all the nationalist leaders, particularly Mahatma Gandhi.

Though an ardent nationalist at heart, he was very dear to the British who often looked upon him as Gandhiji's emissary. As a stern and uncompromising employer, he was quite unpopular; yet he spent the largest amount next only perhaps to the Tatas, on employees' welfare. The author, his second biographer, brings out these facets ably with the help of archives, interviews with Birla's sons and reminiscences of his associates and peers.

Perhaps, it is not well-known that Birla, for all his wealth, was subjected to unfair treatment and humiliation by the British businessmen trading in India. Racial discrimination was so rampant that Birla was not allowed the use of lifts in companies and factories managed by the Britishers. Nor was the bench, meant for Western waiters, to be used by him. A Scottish manager of a British company taunted and ridiculed Birla's offer of a take- over; but had to plead with him later for bailing him out. Perhaps, these unsavoury experiences sowed the seeds of nationalism in the mind of young Birla. And, personal intimacy with Gandhiji drew him closer to the fray. Birla's offer of a direct plunge was discouraged by Gandhiji who wanted him to earn money and help the cause of the struggle. Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya helped Birla shape the Pilani complex and made him take interest in educational administration and promotion.

Starting as a jute broker in Calcutta, Birla could have a mill of his own only after the British left. Sixtyfive years of experience and expertise in industry, brought 200 manufacturing units directly under his control. Another 70 had the benefit of his indirect guidance too. H.V.R. Iengar of the Indian Civil Service recalls that Birla could achieve all these without getting involved in too much ideology. His vision helped to realise all his dreams. If the Benaras Hindu University campus had the ``Ganga'' canal, the Pilani complex should have one too. Undeterred by scornful criticism that it was inconceivable in a sandy desert, he constructed the ``Shivganga'' canal there.

Birla was often subject to vitriolic attacks by labour unions and a partisan press. Khandubhai Desai, though a friend, would share with Birla the widespread perception that the Birla units were adopting unfair labour practices. He would promptly reply detailing all the progressive welfare measures taken by him. He sounded almost apologetic whenever he had to explain. Perhaps exacting standards of efficiency and a consistent disregard for commendations even from close associates did not endear him much to people around.

Four hundred rural schools, the Birla Institute of Technology, and the Science Museum speak volumes for Birla's passion for professional education. He brought Dr. Maria Montessori to Pilani. During her stay, she popularised the public school concept in India. Madan Mohan Malaviya brought Birla to journalism also. His eye for details is evident from his admonition of the cartoonists for inaccurate caricature.

Marwaris in general and the Indian industry in particular owe a lot to G. D. Birla. The author gently reminds the present Prime Minister that he, as Leader of Opposition, had regretted during the Birla Centenary celebrations, that G. D. Birla, who once refused knighthood, had not yet been honoured with the title of ``Bharat Ratna''. Birla deserves it no less than quite a few others already honoured.

A. S. PADMANABHAN

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