B. JAIPUR METALS AND ELECTRICALS LTD.

The financial year of this company used to be from January to December, for convenience this was changed to April to March. So the accounts and balance sheet were prepared for a year and a quarter for the period from 1.1.64 to 31.3.65. During this time the company made a profit of Rs. 40 lakhs and 34 thousand. However the next year the profit margin dropped sharply to Rs. 16 lakhs and 92 thousand. In the meantime, the government declared that instead of using metals that had to be imported from abroad, which were expensive, wherever it was possible and scientifically viable, aluminium should be used; over time this became an order and the law. As a result wherever conductors of copper wire were used A.C.S.R conductors made from pure aluminium or aluminium mixed with steel were now employed. As the demand for these conductors increased, the company requested permission from the Central Government to increase its annual production from 3,000 to 7,500 tons. To manufacture these different types of aluminium conductors, the company requested financial aid from the Industrial Credit and Investment Corporation to produce the necessary aluminium rods, which was granted to them. In addition plans to manufacture enamelled copper wires were also in the final stages.

During 1966 –’67, good quantities of both these types of aluminium conductors were sold. With the promising launch of exports in this year, material worth Rs. 3 lakhs, 44 thousand was exported. At the same time the company also obtained permission to manufacture tungsten carbide dyes.

During the year 1967-68, the company experienced a loss of Rs. 35,000. During this time there was a wave of depression in the engineering industry. The output was decreasing. However, despite this the sales increased from Rs. 3 lakhs, 12 thousand to Rs. 6 lakhs, 40 thousand; i.e. the sales more than doubled. One of the reasons why the sales more than doubled was that due to stiff competition the tendency was not to stock material, but rather to sell it and convert it into cash.  As a result even though the sales doubled the company had to incur a loss. It would have been possible to come out of this situation, but due to the fact that the five year plan of the Electricity Board was postponed, the board did not receive any money, so they withdrew the orders or postponed taking delivery. As a result, the money could not be recovered, even though the material was ready for delivery.

During this year the company got export orders worth Rs. 4.5 crores and an order for enamelled copper wire worth Rs. 40 lakhs from Czechoslovakia.

During this year, on 25^th June, 1968, Ramjibhai’s youngest son, Chandravadan, was appointed as an additional director in the company.

1968-69: During this year, the loss increased to Rs. 18 lakhs and 61 thousand. From 13^th December, 1968 M/s Ashok Trading Company was appointed as the sole selling agent for ‘Jaipur’ meters in Rajasthan.

On the 3^rd April, 1970, when the managing agency of M/s Punamchand & Brothers was terminated as per the rules of the Central Government, it was decided to run the company through a council of directors.

In this year, like last year, the sales increased and reached Rs.5 lakhs and 35 thousand, but the company still incurred a loss as the effect of the trade depression was still the same as before. In addition they had still not received directions from the Electricity Board, to supply the material ordered by it.

Around this time, the Central Government set up a corporation for rural electrification. This led to expectations of an increase in demand for the company’s products, especially conductors and meters. Depending on this, the company planned to increase the monthly output of meters from 15,000 to 50,000 units.

Against export orders worth Rs. 4.5 crores the company had received last year, they had supplied material worth 2 crores, 48 lakhs. In addition, they also received some more orders.

During this year the company started to manufacture small dye-cast toys, like jeeps and lorries.

In this year negotiations were also started for a technical collaboration to manufacture meters in Malaysia.

1969-’70: During this year the sales also increased from Rs. 5 lakh, 35 thousand to reach Rs. 6 lakhs, 33 thousand. Despite this the losses increased from Rs. 18 lakhs, 61 thousand to Rs. 35 lakhs, 82 thousand. The main and most important reason for this was that the tide of the trade depression had not ebbed. The price of the meters was quite low, as it had been fixed beforehand. Further, there was a strike in the factory due to problems related to the recommendations of the Engineering Remuneration Board in Rajasthan, as a result of which the output from the factory fell. Due to the fact that the recommendations of the Electricity Board were accepted, the wages of the workers increased and on the other hand the prices of the raw materials, especially aluminium, increased exponentially.

The price increased from Rs. 5,700 a ton to Rs. 6,850, i.e. an increase of Rs. 1,150 per ton in the case of aluminium wire bars and from Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 3,600, i.e. an increase of Rs. 1,100 per ton in the case of steel wire.

In this year the company exported goods worth Rs. 3 crores and 32 lakhs.

Due to the Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Act (1969) and other public notices, it became difficult for such large companies to expand their activities and production.         

             

Welcoming the leader of Sudan’s Board of Representatives, Sayya Hassabai Mohammed Ahmad.

During the visit of the Board of Representatives from Iraq to Kamani Metals and Alloys Ltd. in February 1968.

The leader of the Board of Representatives from Malaysia, Abdul Kader, during his visit to Kamani Engineering Corporation in July, 1968.

Welcoming the King of Malaysia, Zainal at a dinner in his honour in November 1968.

A NEW APPROACH

Ramjibhai left this world after completing his life’s work of expanding the horizons of Kamani Industry’s development, seeing that it was firmly established and had pride of place on the industrial map of the country. Of course for a long time the hearts of everybody in the Kamani Group, from those who could be considered the main pillars of the industry to the junior most workers, were filled with mourning, but the growth of the industry did not stop for a moment. The industry expanded more and more under its own steam. Due to changes in conditions, there were of course ups and downs in the industry’s growth. Due to variations in the views and altered circumstances of those at the helm of the industry, there may have been a few differences in the ways of working. But the standards and sentiments that Ramjibhai had established, remained as strong as ever, due to which Kamani Industry’s reputation was maintained intact.

Immediately after Ramjibhai’s death, it was necessary to have someone to run the company, so as per the company’s laws Punamchand was appointed as the head of the Kamani Group of Industries. The appointment of the Managing Director and Chairman was made by the managing agency, i.e. Kamani Brothers Pvt. Ltd., and it was this company which appointed Shri Punamchand as Chairman. Now Shri Punamchand was both the Managing Director and Chairman of the company. Due to Ramjibhai’s death, the leaders of Kamani Industries were shaken up, but now with Punamchand at the helm of affairs, things settled down. He took charge of the institution on 10^th July, 1965. For a few years Shri Punamchand shouldered the responsibility of Kamani Group as both the Chairman and Managing Director. From the 11^th October, 1961 Poonamchand’s brother, Rasiklal took on the responsibility of temporary Managing Director and later from 23^rd October, 1967 he started to function as joint Managing Director and was appointed Managing Director on 4^th July, 1968. Until then, i.e. 3^rd July, 1968, Punamchand was in charge. He held both the above positions – Chairman and Managing Director – till that time and fulfilled his duties admirably. Due to holding a very responsible position and having a very heavy workload and perhaps also due to his emotional nature, he suffered his first heart attack on 20^th January, 1966.

This was not the first case of anybody suffering from a heart attack in the family. Previously, in 1946, Ramjibhai was also a victim of such an attack. Still, when Punamchand suffered from a heart attack, the entire Kamani Group was worried. It seemed as if all the activities in the Group were being carried out in an atmosphere of anxiety, but despite this the production of the company was not affected. For two weeks Punamchand remained absent as he had to take rest. After this, when all the departments started receiving instructions and orders in his known handwriting, the atmosphere lightened and everybody breathed easily. There was however, one difference, that although Shri Punamchand retained the position of Chairman he entrusted the post of Managing Director to Rasiklal, thereby reducing his responsibilities. Of course he did not totally give up overseeing the day-to-day matters of the Group. If not directly, then indirectly, Punamchand had to be involved in them; because permission regarding any decisions of routine work had to initially be taken from him. Until the time the authority of the managing agency terminated on the 31^st March, 1970, all the important daily matters were carried out on his advice and according to his instructions. As soon as he saw that his brothers were now fully capable of taking independent decisions and was confident of the same, he systematically and gradually reduced his control. His orders and instructions now gave way to advice and suggestions, which of course were given due respect.

The anxiety that had gripped the management when Ramjibhai passed away was now proved unwarranted. Of course, how much the Group relied on his brilliance and his status was proved in the five years after his death. After he passed away, there is no doubt that Kamani Industries progressed, but there was definitely a difference in the rate, manner and intensity of progress with time. Until then the Group always believed in supplying high quality goods, earning well and keeping expenses as low as possible. These were the ideals of an older generation. Some modifications were made depending on the circumstances and due to Ramjibhai’s foresight, and work was carried out in accordance with the standards of the industry. The work was the collective responsibility of everyone. Now as circumstances changed, things started to be done differently from the traditional ways that Ramjibhai had established. The industry had to look for new opportunities, production and sales targets had to be fixed beforehand and adhered to strictly; if necessary the motive for profit had to be put on the back burner, but the work had to be completed successfully so that the reputation and fame of the Group increased. It seemed that due to financial problems the equilibrium based on three pillars was in danger of being disturbed. This situation arose due to differences of opinions. Of course, the progress of the Group did not come to a halt – but it definitely took a turn. We will now see how, and how much, the Kamani Group progressed during the years from 1965 to 1970.                                                   

CHAPTER 28 : TRUE WEALTH

Just as humility augments knowledge and forgiveness enhances strength, so wealth is only meaningful if it comes together with discernment. To earn wealth is not difficult, but its proper use is very hard unless one has had the right upbringing and education. How a person uses his leisure time and wealth clearly shows whether he is refined or not. When a person has more money than he needs, there is always the fear that he may lose his courteousness and self control and forget his traditions. If a person does not face such fears, he can be considered lucky in many ways. Ramjibhai had earned a lot of money by working hard in the industrial field. But this wealth, which could be so transient, did not make Ramjibhai’s mind waver. By the grace of God and his own self control his discerning intelligence saw to it that Ramjibhai remained in control and his mind was unwavering, despite earning untold wealth. Not only that but as per Gandhiji’s beliefs he considered himself a trustee of his wealth and used it freely for social work.

If anything stood out in Ramjibhai’s personality, it was his predilection towards social work. If the importance of social welfare was greater than one’s own welfare in one’s mind it showed a real desire to do as much as possible for society. It also showed that he had the humility to place himself (his own welfare) at the lowest possible level and take pride in placing the welfare of society at the highest level. All the social workers and reformers in our country were born from a desire to improve the social conditions. Instead of the perverse kind of thinking that one can behave like a king just because one is wealthy and has all the comforts in life, they believe that despite being wealthy and comfortably off they are the humblest of humble servants of society. Their reasoning is that they exist only because society exists, they are a part of society – they have these right ideas. Ramjibhai developed these ideas towards society with complete understanding. This side of his personality was so strong that all his other attributes – his great foresight for industrial progress, his capacity for hard work, extraordinary adventurous nature, remarkable practicality etc., were like stars hidden by the light of the sun. It can be said that his true wealth was his desire for social service and the welfare of society and the hard work he put in to fulfill these aspirations. These were his inner riches.

He did not gain this inner wealth suddenly and without effort. When Gandhiji came into his life he understood and accepted his ideas. He had inherited his father Laxmichand’s righteousness and when Jadavlaxmiben entered his life he totally accepted her into his heart. These three obvious reasons can be cited.

As soon as he was married to Jadavlaxmiben, Ramjibhai realized in his heart that this was not just a social obligation. The entry of this lady into his life was his fate and part of God’s plan. He felt that this woman was destined to be the strength in his life. As soon as he perceived this Ramjibhai saw they way to fulfilling his desires. As his faith gradually grew firmer that fate had sent this lady to be his lifelong companion in his overall prosperity, it seemed that Ramjibhai gained greater strength in religious, social and industrial activities. From the moment Jadavlaxmiben entered his life Ramjibhai started to make rapid inroads in all three directions simultaneously, a journey which continued without a pause until the end of his life. Ramjibhai attributed the success he achieved in all his activities and the progress he made in them to Jadavlaxmiben’s cooperation. Ramjibhai never felt the need to look for any evidence to support his beliefs. Neither did it ever occur to him to test his faith. Faith was faith and this faith became Ramjibhai’s great strength. It gave exceptional dynamism and a distinctive edge to Ramjibhai’s efforts.

This awareness lasted his whole life. Just as Ramjibhai did not look for proof of his faith in the world of logic, neither did look for any astrological reasons for it and anyway Ramjibhai did not really believe in astrology. Before starting any new industry no fears of ‘what would happen?’ ever occurred to him. Because right from the very beginning he never let any doubts enter his mind or imagination. He always remained firm because of his faith. That faith was always ringing in his mind, at every moment, increasing his strength. He was so fearless that he never even bothered to take out an insurance policy on his life. If faith flowed on like a river, then there was no room in one’s mind for doubt, which was like a dry desert.

In 1931-32, when a young astrologer from Mahua, insisted on reading the horoscopes of Poonamchand and Rasiklal, Ramjibhai very reluctantly gave him the horoscopes of both his sons. The astrologer, on studying both the horoscopes predicted that both of them would enjoy fame like that accorded to royalty. They would work in the field of iron and metals and would have to move to the place where Poonamchand’s father-in-law lived. Due to Ramjibhai’s indifference towards astrology, he had totally forgotten all these predictions. In 1942, when he had to go to Jaipur, the astrologer’s predictions suddenly came back to him. After that, due to persuasion of a number of well wishers, Ramjibhai had his own horoscope read by some astrologers. Ramjibhai did not believe in astrology because he felt that due to it a person would not put in hard work but would leave everything to fate. Even so he had called a chhaya josh* from Patan to Mehsana and again during the meeting of the Non Ferrous Metal Industries Panel in November 1949, he had invited astrologers for the entertainment of the Panel members; Dr. Anant Pandya, Motichand Shah, Dr. D.N. Wadia, Dr. Daru P. Antia and others. In 1939, at the insistence of Himchand Shah, he had Jadavlaxmiben’s palm read by Dakshinamurty, the astrologer from Bezvadana. After this the family’s faith in astrology increased and they used to call astrologers. However, Ramjibhai did not place much importance on their predictions and forecasts for the future.    

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        *chhaya joshi – An astrologer who reads one’s future from one’s shadow.

From his own experience Ramjibhai realized that faith in oneself is the only source of strength and it is necessary to have faith in the people with whom one is working as this increases their strength too. Because of this belief in himself, he almost always got good results. He had drawn on these firm beliefs to manage his own institutions and seen their powerful influence.

The first time Ramjibhai retired from his industrial pursuits, was the starting point of his social work.

Just as Ramjibhai considered Jadavlaxmiben’s entry into his life as auspicious, he also considered Poonamchand’s birth as a sign of good luck. During the period from 1920 to 1924, the seeds of this hidden wealth, sprouted and grew in Ramjibhai’s heart. He considered that his prosperity was due to  Poonamchand’s birth.          

He also gave a lot of importance to Poonamchand’s marriage. He welcomed his new daughter-in-law with the same faith. After Poonamchand’s marriage, work in Mukund Iron started on a large scale and the industry developed extensively. The belief of their father made a deep impression on the minds of Poonamchand and Sumitra.

Behaviour, thoughts and speech – in all three Ramjibhai exercised self-control. Whether his heart was overflowing with joy, burning with anger or filled with sorrow, Ramjibhai never let even a shadow of his feelings cross his face.

In 1955, Jadavlaxmiben’s brother, Bhaichand Panchmia, passed away. At that time Ramjibhai was in Dhari. His son Navinchandra, who had come there to recuperate from an illness, was with him. Ramjibhai got the news of Bhaichand’s death by telegram. Ramjibhai believed that if Jadavlaxmiben was not mentally prepared, this bad news would be a terrible shock for her. So Ramjibhai decided not to give this unhappy news to his wife and behaved in his normal way. His wife also had no inkling that Ramjibhai was keeping such sorrowful news to himself.

The incident with Rana was a severe test for him. At that time also Ramjibhai had maintained the same kind of self control.

Ramjibhai was very measured in his speech. He didn’t like flowery speech, exaggeration or pretentious language. He had mastered the art of saying as much as possible in the minimum number of words. Even if he had to issue an order he would phrase it in such a way that it sounded like a suggestion. He would also convey his firm decisions as a recommendation, but everybody understood that his suggestions were to be followed. He had realized the importance of compromise in his public and personal life as well as in the industrial field. Problems and complicated situations could be solved by compromise – not by destruction or severance. This was his philosophy, which Poonamchand also respected. So if a compromise was required in any situation, Ramjibhai would entrust the matter to Poonamchand. Any matters requiring a firm decision were handled by Rasiklal and difficult issues were dealt with by Hasmukhbhai.

Ramjibhai won over the hearts of all his staff and anybody who came into contact with him by his serene nature. The roots of his desire to improve the lot of society lay in his compassionate nature. This compassion was visible by his donations, both public and anonymous, solving quarrels, mediating in relationships that had reached breaking point and bringing about a mutually acceptable solution by various means. If any worker completed a difficult job successfully, Ramjibhai would always pat him on his back and reward him, thus encouraging him. Ramjibhai had achieved considerable success in creating true unity amongst persons in his own society.  

This compassion was a bridge that reached the hearts of all those who came into contact with him. Due to his impartiality, he could determine the true nature of a person and gauge his strengths and weaknesses. He was especially compassionate towards the downtrodden and tried to help them as much as possible. In his home and in his institutions, he had made it a rule that those who were strong and capable should be sympathetic towards those who were weaker and help them with their work. This rule was strictly followed, both in his house and in his institutions. The household servants and cooks all got leave once a month and on those days every member of the family had to do their own work.

As his sons grew older and the work of the company increased, Ramjibhai reduced the number of orders and instructions that he issued. He even reduced the number of suggestions. Ramjibhai believed that having faith in his sons and giving them responsibility would encourage them to work harder. Ramjibhai always first gauged the strengths and weaknesses of a person and then entrusted them with work suited to their capabilities. Once he had given the responsibility of any job to a person, the person was free to decide on his style of working and take decisions accordingly. If his sons or any other staff member faced a problem and could not find a way out and asked him for advice, Ramjibhai was always ready to give it. This was his policy.

Ramjibhai accepted that both the mind and body needed rest. He organized his work in such a way that after putting in a good day’s hard work, there was sufficient time for rest and relaxation. He personally saw to it that all his staff had sufficient time for relaxation and an adequate number of holidays.

Ramjibhai never took any hasty decisions. Such behavior was just not in his nature. However, after careful thinking and taking a considered decision in any matter, he would see to it that there was no delay in putting his ideas into practice.

Although Ramjibhai was a wealthy person he believed that wealth should be used prudently and economically. He himself strictly followed this principle and saw to it that his family and staff did the same. His principle was that not even a single pin, used to hold old papers together should be wasted.

Ramjibhai would always carry out any work after proper thought and planning, and as a result of this, time, energy and money were never wasted.

Ramjibhai always wanted to gain and apply new knowledge. As a result his brilliant mind was enriched as he could think in different ways.  Ramjibhai realized that India could not afford to always be dependent on foreign countries for non-ferrous metals and that it was necessary to look into ways of producing these metals here. Thus within about four years of of establishing Kamani Industries, Ramjibhai outlined plans to search for and produce copper, zinc, beryllium, lead and other non-ferrous metals, within the country. At a time when the industry was not much aware of ‘malleable castings,’ he advised that, ‘this item is very necessary for India’s future.’ The thought occurred to Ramjibhai that it would be financially very beneficial to industry if factories were set up so that they could easily access the material they required, which was often produced by another factory, i.e., near to one another. As soon as this thought occurred to him he made sincere attempts to put it into practice. In those days this idea was considered very far sighted.

Ramjibhai always followed simplicity in his way of life. His simplicity also had an effect on his family and other people. It was not just in his clothes – it extended to his diet, they way he travelled, his thoughts and speech. This virtue of simplicity was a result of his tendency not to hoard possessions. Simplicity surrounded his whole lie. He had accepted simplicity in his life and he wanted others to also accept it, so he always stressed on the importance of simplicity. However he never imposed his ideas on anybody. Ramjibhai never thought of anything as his right. He never even imposed his ideas on Jadavlaxmiben, but following in her husband’s footsteps she also led a simple life.

The understanding between Ramjibhai and his wife was really very special. He never did anything, whether it was very significant or something very trivial, without her knowledge. He never kept any secrets from her. There was never anything about which he did not take his wife’s opinion. From her side, Jadavlaxmiben had matched herself so thoroughly to her husband that they thought and behaved as one.

Most of the times, Ramjibhai and Jadavlaxmiben would think of the same solution to any problem. This unity of heart and mind between both of them was indeed remarkable. Jadavlaxmiben played no small part in seeing that Ramjibhai did not get carried away by his inherent generosity.

Thus Ramjibhai was content in every way in his family life, business and industrial life and social life. His life went on very peacefully. There was no place in it for unnecessary commotion and uncalled for anxiety. It was not that extremely trying circumstances and difficulties had not occurred in Ramjibhai’s life, but he had faced them with rock like steadfastness and overcome them. Difficulties had not undermined Ramjibhai’s strengths or weakened him in any way. On the contrary, every problem he faced made him more resilient and his will power stronger and more spirited. He lived peacefully right up until the end of his life.

His death was a great loss not only to his family members but also to his friends, workers and the industrial community in general. This can also be considered a great achievement on Ramjibhai’s part. He was a valued member of society and the nation. This great person is no longer present with us, but his sentiments and ideas still pervade in both physical and subtle form. Of course they are present as a memory. To be remembered not only by a few people or a small family but by the whole industrial community is no small achievement for any man is it?              

  Shri Ramjibhai Hansraj Kamani (wearing a turban) explaining to the Maharaja of Vadodhara, His Highness, Sayyajirao Gaekwad about ‘Rambaug,’ in Dhari during an exhibition of fruits.

The Managing Director of Kamani Industries, Shri Rasiklal Kamani, welcoming the Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, at that time, Tun Abdul Razak. The Indian ambassador to Libya, Shri Talyarkhan is standing in the centre – April 30th, 1968.

      

        

         

                    

CHAPTER 27 : 27TH JUNE

Ramjibhai’s life was filled with hard work. He was a very active person, but he also understood the importance of retirement. It was not in his nature to fill every moment of his life with some activity or the other. After reaching the peak of his efforts and the peak of his achievements successfully, Ramjibhai, realizing that he was getting older and was not as strong as he used to be, gradually reduced his workload.

In the later years of his life, especially after 1958, Ramjibhai used to attend his office regularly, twice a day, in the morning and evening. He never used to interfere in the daily affairs, but was totally aware of what was going on every day. He always insisted that letters sent in reply to his personal mail should be signed by him personally. No letter, whether trivial or crucial from anyone, important or unimportant, went unanswered. He firmly believed that if anybody wrote to him, then that letter had to be answered as matter of courtesy. To write these letters, Ramjibhai would call his personal secretary, Dolarkumar Bhatt and explain the main points to him.

Ramjibhai would come to his office regularly at ten o’clock in the morning and leave at twelve noon and then again at three thirty in the afternoon, after which he would leave at five o’clock. Between the time he woke up and the time he went to sleep he would see that he completed all the work he had decided upon. He had great value for time and accounted for every moment. In the morning he would bathe at a fixed time, eat a specific breakfast at the same time every day, eat lunch, and that too only selected items, at a set time and then rest for a while. He had a fixed time for going for a walk and reading the newspapers and would strictly adhere to the schedule he set for himself. Even during his later years, Ramjibhai meticulously followed this fixed agenda, and never veered from it.

In May 1965, Ramjibhai had to visit Europe. He was going to stay there for a month and return at the end of June. His wife Jadavben and daughter Sarla were to accompany him on his trip to Europe. Further, his son Chandravadan and his wife Sangeeta had also planned to join him in Europe. Ramjibhai decided to return earlier from Europe, and it seems that fate played a hand in this. During this time Poonamchand and Sumitra had gone to Kashmir. From there they were to go to Delhi in the last week of June.  Navnit and his wife Susmita had gone to Japan. On the way back from Europe, Chandravadan and Sangeeta went to Tehran. Ramjibhai and Jadavlaxmiben came back to Mumbai on 19^th June, 1965. When Ramjibhai returned to Mumbai only Rasiklal and Hasmukhbhai were there. Due to his tour of Europe Ramjibhai’s health had deteriorated. Actually over the last few months he had been experiencing some weakness. He couldn’t walk as much as he used to, but even so the doctors had said that he was in good health for his seventy-seven years. Due to his disciplined and simple life and his extensive mental activity, he had been able to maintain his health. Sometimes his blood pressure did fluctuate, but by taking the proper medicines and adequate rest immediately, he did not allow his health to deteriorate. His mental faculties were as sharp as before.   

Saturday, the 26^th June, 1965 dawned. As usual Ramjibhai went to his office at ten o’clock in the morning. He dictated the replies to a few of the letters that he had received. At twelve o’clock he went home as per his normal practice. He had his lunch and rested. Up to evening his health was as good as ever. There were no signs of any problems. As he normally did, he started to read the newspapers that he had not read in the morning, at nine in the night. That night, Hasmukh had to go out to attend a dinner party. As was the custom in his house, Hasmukh asked for permission to attend the dinner, which Ramjibhai gave gladly, and so Hasmukh left.

At about twelve o’clock when Hasmukhbhai returned from the party, Jadavlaxmiben called him. Ramjibhai seemed rather uneasy. He would sit in a chair for some time and then sit on the bed and then he would walk around for a while. His discomfort was clearly visible. Seeing this, Hasmukh asked his father, “If you are not feeling well should I call the doctor?” Ramjibhai replied, “Let it be, the doctor must have just slept after a tiring day. Why should we disturb him unnecessarily? I have some medicine, once I take it I will be fine, there is nothing much to worry about.” However, despite Ramjibhai’s words, Hasmukhbhai was not convinced. Even though Ramjibhai said “there is nothing to worry about,” the pain he was suffering was clearly visible on his face. So instead of calling, he (Hasmukhbhai) drove to the doctor’s house and fetched him personally. At that time there was no difference in Ramjibhai’s condition. The doctor made him lie down and examined him. The doctor did not feel anything serious was wrong, or even if he did he did not let anyone know about it. The doctor gave him a tablet which he swallowed and turned on his side. Everybody felt that Ramjibhai was feeling better and had gone to sleep.

But this was not the case. Ramjibhai had passed into everlasting sleep. There was no cry of pain or distress from him; he just seemed to turn over naturally. At that time who could imagine that Ramjibhai was no more, but had left this world and started his journey to the next. It was 2 am, when the soul of the founder and head of Kamani Industries left his body. There was no sign of pain or agony on his face. There did not even seem to be any change in him. The same gentleness, peace and innocence that one sees on the face of a person in deep sleep, was seen on Ramjibhai’s face. Although there was no physical change visible on his face it was clear to everybody that Ramjibhai was no longer in this world. One minute Ramjibhai was alive and the next minute he was gone. Once it was known that death had eluded everybody and had taken Ramjibhai away, the household was totally disrupted. Grief stricken, Hasmukhbhai phoned Rasiklal and called him home. He made a long distance call to Delhi and told Poonamchand the shocking news.

In the morning, there was widespread sorrow throughout the city. “There was no sign of any illness, so how could this happen? How did it happen? I met Ramjibhai only yesterday. In the evening he spoke with me so warmly.” With such sorrowful words, an atmosphere of grief spread throughout the city. By ten o’clock, loved ones, friends, relatives, well wishers, office staff and workers had all arrived (at Ramjibhai’s house). Deep sorrow was apparent on everybody’s faces. Everybody wanted to say something, but nobody seemed able to utter a word. With dejected faces and downcast eyes, they paid their last respects to Ramjibhai, who had gone to a better place.

Poonamchand arranged to come by plane, but the plane was delayed and arrived in Mumbai late. Without Poonamchand nothing was possible.

Poonamchand was the eldest among all (of Ramjibhai’s children). For the last so many years he had been handling all the work. This dauntless man had faced and overcome innumerable problems and even financial difficulties with a strong heart. But on stepping into the house Poonamchand broke down like a child. It was a scene that would melt anybody’s heart and everybody’s eyes were filled with tears.

At one o’clock in the afternoon in the burning heat, Ramjibhai started his last journey. His body was decorated with flowers. His funeral cortege was accompanied by his entire family, relatives, friends, companions and all his staff and workers.

Amongst them were industrialists from Mumbai, representatives of foreign governments, Morarjibhai Desai, Dhabarbhai, prominent businessmen and many Congress leaders - all were present during this last journey. At the cremation grounds, Morarjibhai and Dhabarbhai paid heartfelt tributes to Ramjibhai.

On the 10^th July, 1965 a condolence meeting for Ramjibhai was held in Patkar Hall. Shri S. K. Patil, who was the Minister of Railways in the Central Government at that time, presided over the meeting. A large photograph of the late Ramjibhai was placed on the left side of the dias. It was decorated with a sandalwood garland. On a small table next to it, incense sticks were lit, from which perfumed smoke arose in intricate patterns, spread fragrance in the atmosphere and dispersed. Due to the monsoon, it was pouring with rain on that day. But the hall was completely packed. All those present paid heartfelt tributes to Ramjibhai – S.K. Patil, the Mayor Madhavan, Dr. N.N. Kailash, who was the Deputy Minister of Education of Maharashtra at that time, the ex-govenor of Madhya Pradesh Mangaldas Pakvasa, the Head of the Khadhi Commission, Dhabarbhai, the Chief Minister of Gujarat at that time Balwantrai Mehta, the former Minister for Food in Maharashtra, Homi Talyarkhan, the well known solicitor and social worker, Shri Chimanlal Chakubhai Shah, an old friend of Ramjibhai, Prataprai Girdharlal Mehta, the well known economic advisor, Chunilal Bhaidas Mehta and the Secretary of the Mumbai Congress Committee, Shri Adam Adil and many others paid their respects. Many representatives from trade associations and industrial institutions, prominent citizens, members of the Kamani family and directors and workers from the Kamani Group of Industries were present at this meeting.

In his tribute to the late Ramjibhai, Shri Madhavan said, “Ramjibhai’s name will be etched in golden letters in the nation’s industrial progress.” Shri S.K. Patil said, “Ramjibai was a humble man of a generation that unfortunately does not exist today. This generation had taken a leading part in the nation’s fight for independence. I firmly believe that not only  Ramjibhai’s family but thousands of others in this country loved Ramjibhai. I would say to Poonamchand and his other brothers that you are lucky to have had such a father.”

Shri Dhabarbhai said, “Ramjibhai had no contempt for even the most insignificant problems. He saw the small predicaments of ordinary people to be as significant as the big problems of important people. Ramjibhai believed that however much one gave it was not enough. With his death our country has lost a noble soul.”

Shri Balwantrai Mehta, referring to the organizational abilities, patience and perseverance of the late Ramjibhai said, “Whether it was his work related to industry or social service, to the cottage industry or promotion of khadhi, or working with Harijans, he showed the same enthusiasm for everything. Until today, I have not seen such a generous person. His mind was always active and open to new ideas. His mental capacity was amazing. He was the kind of person that people were always drawn to for sympathy, counsel, advice, guidance and help.”         

Shri Talyarkhan, speaking about Ramjibhai’s extremely fortunate life said, “Ramjibhai’s death, like his life, was trouble free and peaceful. His diligence, his philanthropy, his saintly benevolence, his good character, all show what kind of a person he was. And because of this, he made a good impression on anybody who came into contact with him. There is no need to pray that his soul rests in peace, because God took him away very peacefully.”

Dr. Kailash said, “In 1950, when Shri Mohanlal Sukhadia, who was then the Chief Minister of Rajasthan, introduced me to him I could understand his generous nature and profound wisdom. The fact that he established industries not only in Maharashtra but in also Rajasthan and other places goes to show that he had pride in his country. A memorial should be constructed in remembrance of him so that his life’s aims are not forgotten and future generations will be inspired.”

Shri Chimanlal Chakubhai Shah talked from his own experience, saying, “Ramjibhai left a deep impression on anybody who came into contact with him. He believed in winning over people’s hearts, even if their ideas were different from his own. Ramjibhai always gave more than people asked for or expected.”

Shri Prataprai Mehta, remembering the twenty or so years he had worked with Ramjibhai, said, “He had very lofty aims. About three quarters of the plans he had made could not be fulfilled by him, but now the Government of India has taken them up. To produce soda ash from the sludge in the Sambhar Lake in Rajasthan; manufacture lignite; to purify the copper from Khetdi and Ramana, to extract the metal from the zinc and lead mines of Jawar – Ramjibhai had thought of all these matters in 1944-45. Twenty years have passed since then, and now the Indian government has taken up some of these schemes. This goes to show that he was a pioneer in industry.”

Secretary of the Mumbai Congress Committee, Shri Adam Adil, who had established a workers’ union in Kamani’s factories, spoke on how he had experienced Ramjibhai’s generosity at that time, saying, ”Kamani’s officers were not giving in to us. So we decided to enter into a discussion only with Ramjibhai. We realized his great large heartedness in the first meeting. He said, ‘You are the leader of the union. I deem you as the judge of your demands. If you can prove to us that all your demands are justified them I am willing to accept all of them.’ And in fact we cut our demands by fifty percent. From this it can be seen that Ramjibhai posed us an ethical challenge. He had faith in us and that faith inspired us to make only really justifiable and acceptable demands. It was if he was truly a guardian of the workers. His friend, the late Jamnalal Bajaj, comes to my mind as also Robert Owen, who started a movement to improve the social conditions in nineteenth century England. That is why I say that although Ramjibhai had wealth, he was not a capitalist. Exploitation, which is the first sign of a capitalist, could not be found in Ramjibhai or his factories even if one searched for it…….Due to his close contact with Gandhiji, he made all efforts to see that people maintained good relationships with each other as a result of which they could live better and more fulfilled lives and sustain friendships and cordial relations with others. To his mind, humanity had a far greater value than money.”             

Prabhakar Mehta, the son of the late Balwantrai Mehta, said in a tribute to Ramjibhai, “Ramjibhai was a truly compassionate person. He enriched the life of anybody who came into contact with him. He was also from Saurashtra, which gave us great men like Mahatma Gandhi and Seth Jagdusha.”

Many others also paid such heartfelt tributes to Ramjibhai.

Those who could not be physically present at the condolence meeting, or lived in other cities or countries, sent written tributes and expressed their commiserations to Poonamchand and his brothers. Innumerable letters and telegrams were received from friends and people who knew Ramjibhai and had been struck by his personality, residing in Europe, America, Japan, Austrailia, New Zealand, Africa, Canada and other countries. Heads and deputy heads of the Indian and foreign governments, officials, engineers, businessmen, various religious and educational institutions, trade bodies and many other institutions, societies and unions, poets, writers, editors of newspapers all gave glowing obituaries.

In remembrance of Ramjibhai, the Kamani Group brought out a special issue of their magazine, the ‘Kamani News Letter.’(called 'Kamani Currents'). A donation of Rs. 1,00,000 to various religious institutions in Saurashtra, Mumbai, Rajasthan, Calcutta and other places, was declared by his family. In addition, to ensure that he would always be remembered the ‘Ramjibhai Smruti Trust,’ was established with a endowment of Rs. 7,50,000.

The large hearted, gentle, brilliant Ramjibhai Harchand Kamani, with his remarkable personality, had now become a memory. 

     ‘Mangal Mandir Kholo.’  

Leaders and citizens at the condolence meeting.

At the condolence meeting.

The workers’ heartfelt farewell.

Preparation for the final journey.

  
          

CHAPTER 26 : HUMANITY

To a great extent this whole human race is totally materialistic. Social interactions are based on material wealth. Selfishness is the centre of materialism. Out of all the three qualities that exist in the world, (i.e. the three gunas of prakruti, satva rajas and tamas), the highest and best is satva guna, which is totally incompatible with materialism. Very few people practice satva guna. Those who do follow the principle of satva guna with faith and determination exist in the world like a rare and beautiful flower that blooms in a garden. And even after his death the fragrance of his humanity remains. Those who follow the path of satva guna are usually introverts – i.e. they like to be with themselves. Such people, with their progressive and thoughtful minds, with their hearts full of humanity and gentle souls who have looked within themselves, are very few in this world. Materialistic people are cannot be companions of such sensitive and idealistic persons, because their basic nature is very different. However, idealistic people do hide away in caves or live on the top of a mountain. They live in the course of the world and are a part of the world just as the waves are part of the ocean. But they are idealistic and set their sights on higher objectives. During their lifetime, idealistic people do not disregard their fellow, worldly co-travellers. In fact they extend all the humanitarian virtues, such as empathy, fellow feeling, compassion, sympathy and generosity towards them. But such people remain engrossed in their work without being affected or touched (by the outside world).

Ramjibhai was a very idealistic and sensitive person. However, he never set his sights on extraordinary goals or ideals, because he never had any ambitions to become a great person. But, he had enormous respect for such great persons and incorporated their virtues in his life. Due to his high standing and influence in the field of industry he had innumerable friends. He counted many of these as his close friends, to whom he could open his heart and mind. He was very comfortable with them, but at the same time he also liked to be alone and spend time by himself. During these times alone, Ramjibhai would look within himself and this soul-searching made him mentally and physically stronger, but at the same time a more mellow person.

Ramjibhai had started his career from the very lowest level. He knew what poverty was. Due to the fact that he had experienced poverty, he understood the importance of self-discipline and simplicity. He realized the importance of righteous living. He had great esteem for the higher values in life. These were a part of his personality and also played an important role in his development.  And so despite reaching the standing of a great industrialist and having great wealth, these values never disappeared from his personality. On the contrary, these traits became more and more pronounced and anybody who came into contact with him for a short or long time, as a passing acquaintance or a long standing friend, reaped their benefit. This was his greatness.

 Gradually, his propensity towards social service became more and more pronounced. He had heartfelt sympathy towards the weak and downtrodden. He believed it was his duty to serve the poor and sick. This was why gave as many donations anonymously as he did publically.

Of course he had inherited these great virtues from his father Laxmichand Kamani’s righteous thinking and inclination to serve others. Not only did Ramjibhai uphold this inheritance, but he also enhanced it and passed it on to his children.

Luckily, in his efforts to develop these high ideals and virtues he was directly and indirectly influenced by Gandhiji. The life of this great man was a fount of inspiration for Ramjibhai.

Due to his business, social work and religious works, countless people from all levels of society, having different natures came into contact with him. He treated all of them alike. Very few people, whether they came into close or fleeting contact, really understood his true nature. This was because he always maintained relations suited to that person. Ramjibhai’s nature was such that he always saw the virtues in a person. In this way, just as for Dattatreya*, everybody was his teacher and in seeing the virtues in a person he never discriminated between anybody, whether young or old.

He had an innumerable number of friends, the list is very long. Maybe not all of them, but it is definitely necessary to mention some of them. Harilal Govinji Parikh, Mohanlal Virjibhai Patel, Premchandbhai Khara, Dr. Tapidas of Sevak Mandal, Krishnashankar Girijashankar Vaidhya, Manilal Kothari, Kakabhai Kothari, Balwantrai Mehta, Motibhai Amin, Dhanjibhai Govindji Kamdar, Vanechand Hirachand Doshi, Jagjivanrai Narayan Mehta, Chatrabhuj Sunderji  Doshi, Jivanlal Motichand Shah, Jamnalal Bajaj were all his business associates. But although he came to be associated with Jivanlalbhai, Harackhandbhai and Jamnalal Bajaj because of business, it did not stop there. The friendship deepened and became intimate without any expectations on either side. These were golden friendships. Many of his friendships were formed before he became an industrialist, and were long lasting and remained strong even after he reached a high position. Ramjibhai knew how to make friends and also had the ability to make them endure.

His courtesy, simplicity, humility, politeness, understanding and most importantly his sharp intelligence and extraordinary faculties all left a lasting impression on the minds of anybody who came into contact with him, either closely or fleetingly. The lamp of social service that he had lit illuminated his life continuously and brilliantly. Service to the troubled was his motto in life.

*Dattatreya is at once the incarnation of Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma.

When Ramjibhai was running a school for farmers in Amreli, Gijubhai Badheka used to bring both male and female teachers to see it. Once, all of them expressed a desire to see the Khodiyar water fall in Dhari. Ramjibhai also went there with them. Seeing the small water fall, the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, everybody was in a very good mood. Some of them caught the water as it flowed, others stood under its stream and yet others swam in the small pool. Suddenly a lady slipped and fell into the water and went under the water. Everybody was paralysed (with fear) and nobody knew what to do. Ramjibhai immediately realised the dangerous predicament of the lady and in a second, threw off his shirt, jumped into the water and rescued her.

Whenever any problems arose in his state or the country, Ramjibhai always became actively involved and helped out both physically and monetarily. Many such examples have already been given in previously this book. He always extended as much financial help as he could afford, on any occasion it was required. He settled some persons in manual industries and set up a business for others so that they would have the means to earn a livelihood. He always behaved politely even with those people who had different ideas from his own and was able to tactfully extract work from them and would help them as much as possible. If anybody did him a favour he would always see that the person was suitably repaid.

Ramjibhai always took any opportunity to extend the maximum possible help on many occasions in his life. Whether it was a quarrel between brothers over their inheritance, or any disagreement between two people, he would always try and settle the dispute. Ramjibhai always showed generosity, compassion and sympathy towards the downtrodden and the workers in his own factories. He would always overlook mistakes of his workers, and would praise them for any small success and encourage them in their work. Anybody who has ever come into contact with him has experienced his benevolence, either directly or indirectly and his humanity was always in evidence in both his private and public life.                                 

CHAPTER 25 : FAMILY

Ramjibhai had a large and prosperous family. God had gifted him twelve children, out of which six were sons and six were daughters. As fate willed it three daughters died in childhood. So all in all there were six sons and three daughters. Their names from the eldest to youngest were: Poonamchand, Rasiklal, Sarla, Navinchandra, Nalini, Hasmukh, Navnit, Chandravadan and Mrudula. All these children of Ramjibhai were married.

Due to circumstances, Ramjibhai only studied up to a certain extent, but his love   for education was unlimited. He was firm in upholding the established values and mores in life. From the very beginning, his personal life was very refined and he firmly implemented whatever high moral values he believed in. Ramjibhai had not had a very extensive formal education but his experiences in the school of life were unlimited. Due to these experiences he developed a very noble personality. He himself was the architect of his own life. Since he himself had not been able to go in for higher education in college, he was very particular that his children did not miss out on this. Ramjibhai realised the advantages of higher education so he gave a lot of attention and care in extending all the facilities to his children for educational purposes. In addition, realising the importance of practical training he established a school for farmers which would give such training – at that time this was a very new and revolutionary idea. Not satisfied with giving his eldest son, Poonamchand a formal school education, he also sent him to Japan in 1936 to study agriculture. He was able to educate his youngest son, Chandravadan up to the degree level. Since he gave as much importance to practical training, as to formal education, Ramjibhai saw to it that all his children were well versed in business. But over and above this to ensure that his children would become responsible citizens of the future he instilled such values in them, that even if they did not have a degree (of course except for Chandravadan, because he had studied up to the graduate level) his children would be cultured, courteous and virtuous people in the true sense of the word. All his children understood the importance of hard work. All the sons were well trained in business. Since Ramjibhai paid a lot of attention in shaping the character of each of his children he was satisfied with their personalities. All his children led cultured lives and they had great faith in the high values of life.

Since Shri Poonamchand was the eldest son, he had an advantage over the other children, when it came to the care taken by his parents. So it was natural that the personality characteristics of Ramjibhai and his traits of success were clearly seen in him. The generosity of his father, his tempered and pleasing speech, his devotion to duty, understanding, adventurous nature, his constant desire for progress and his unfailing capacity for hard work, not surprisingly all these traits were inherited by Poonamchand.

Shri Poonamchand was born in Amrely on 6^th April, 1918. When Ramjibhai went to his native village because he had influenza, Poonamchand was afflicted with pneumonia. Since Poonamchand was the first born son, it was but natural that he was brought up with a lot of love and affection. But Ramjibhai did not overdo it and spoil him. When Ramjibhai had gone on a tour abroad, he had bought Poonamchand a tricycle so that he could move around easily.

Poonamchand was already attending a formal school, but Ramjibhai also engaged a tutor, who came home to teach Poonamchand, so that he would get a better education and also learn cultural values. Luckily this teacher was very good. His name was also Ramji. When Ramjibhai was in Calcutta he bought a pony for Poonamchand. The teacher, Ramji would take Poonamchand for rides on the pony. When this teacher retired in 1926, Ramjibhai showed his gratefulness to him by opening a shop for him in Jamshedpur. The teacher’s shop did well and he was able to earn a good income from it.

In 1930, when Ramjibhai shifted to Mumbai, Poonamchand was admitted to Mumbai’s New Era High School, and the surname ‘Kamani’ was adopted. Ramjibhai’s relationship with the principal, Shri M.T. Vyas remained very cordial till the end.

In Calcutta there was a businessman named Anuprai. Later he worked in the import –export department of Kamani Industries. Ramjibhai requested his father, Dolatrai to come to Mumbai and opened a school and library for children, under him. After Jivanlal was operated upon for piles, he took him (Dolatrai) to take care of him, so Ramjibhai entrusted the work of the school and the library to Shri Ambalal Shah, who used to teach Poonamchand. He also took him and Rasiklal on a tour of Saurashtra.

After Ambalal, the responsibility of Poonamchan’s education was taken up by a graduate from Wadhwan, Shri Manilal Shah. After that Poonachand was also taught by Shri Purshottam Joshi.     

When Ramjibhai took up his work in Rambaug, he gave Poonamchand a spade and pickaxe and encouraged him to take an interest in cultivation. Just as ordinary labourers would take their lunch with them when they left home, so also Poonamchand would take his roti with him and go to Rambaug and after working in the fields would eat it with vegetables he had prepared himself. Poonamchand worked in Rambaug from six in the morning to six in the evening and thus recognized the dignity of physical labour in his life.

A well known psychologist, Shri Harbhai Trivedi who taught in a boarding school in Bhavnagar also played an important part in Poonamchand’s education. Poonamchand spent two years in Dakshinamurthi taking basic practical training. Gandhiji had given a lot of importance to practical training. Gandhiji firmly believed that without physical labour, theoretical knowledge was only useful if one wanted to be a clerk. In addition, school and college education was also incomplete (without practical training). If a student studying in an agricultural college, did not know how to use a plough, could not make bullocks work in the way he wanted them to, was not able to water the fields properly, could not work under the burning sun, in the freezing cold or pouring rain, then even if that student held the highest degree from the best agricultural university, he was not suited to work as a farmer or give instructions to them. Gandhiji also realised that a person who had a college degree in agriculture could perhaps become a good officer but he could not be compatible with an illiterate farmer working in the fields. There would always be some kind of barrier between the farmer and the official due to a difference in their positions and their knowledge. Thus due to the fact that the farmer suffered from an inferiority complex and the official had a superiority complex there could not be complete agreement between the two. In addition it is not possible to solve any practical difficulties without actually working in the fields. At that time the reasoning behind Gandhiji’s opinion on practical training was not as well known as it became later. But since Ramjibhai was fully convinced about Gandhiji’s views on practical training, when Poonamchand started work in Rambaug, Ramjibhai pressured him to work hard. Even though later Poonamchand did not work in the fields he understood all the difficulties that farmers faced and he had great respect for them.

‘Oh farmer you can really be counted as the father of the world.’ This line of poetry cannot be found even if you look for it in any text book, but there is no doubt that Poonamchand has as much respect for the farmer as for the father of the world.

His father had taken care to instil humanity in Poonamchand right from the very beginning. Because of this, Poonamchand would always show humanity whatever the risk. Such a situation once arose in his life. During a trip to Tulsishyam a student named Ramjibhai Jadeja was drowning in the lake, whom Poonamchand risked his own life to save. Ramjibhai proudly remembered this incident for a long time. Despite the fact that he attained an important place in the industrial field, Poonamchand always had great respect for all his teachers who contributed either directly or indirectly to his education. He had great respect for Shri Harbhai Trivedi and often donated generously to his organisation.

Thus due to his father’s foresight the foundation of Poonamchand’s education was very strong. His visit to Japan was of great benefit to Poonamchand’s education. After this, due to whatever experiences he had during his career in business he gained the expected maturity. Until 1954 Poonamchand underwent many different good and bad experiences. Ramjibhai diluted the shock of his bad experiences. The good experiences increased Poonamchand’s faith and spread joy in his life. He became kind and gentle. Poonamchand was willing to take the risk of playing a prominent part in various societies and unions in the vast field of industry and he was able to handle this successfully; these activities also played a part in developing his developing a well rounded personality. Also due to his various trips in India and abroad, Poonamchand’s developed a broadminded outlook and his approach to industry had an appropriate direction. In order to gain more foresight in the field of industry and to have the opportunity to develop his personality further, Poonamchand maintained contact with associations outside the industrial field. On 9^th December, 1949 he became a member of the Rotary Club of Mumbai.

Actually Ramjibhai had sent Poonamchand to Japan in 1936 to further his education in agriculture and Poonamchand’s bent of mind was also inclined towards agriculture, but along with gaining an education in agriculture he was also attracted by the small and large industries there and realised that he was also inclined towards business (after all he was the son of an industrialis!) So after returning to India, Poonamchand turned his attention more towards industry and jumped into that.

A number of teachers and his father played a large role in shaping Poonamchand’s character and his wife Shrimati Sumitra was also instrumental in this is some ways.

Poonamchand was engaged in 1933. He had been receiving many offers of marriage from good families since 1928. A very dear friend of Ramjibhai, who was a doctor had also sent a marriage proposal on behalf of his daughter, but since she was almost the same age as Poonamchand the proposal could not be accepted. A well known industrialist of Africa had also sent a proposal for Poonamchand, but at that time a convention of the Congress party was being held in Calcutta and on that occasion the well known jeweller from Jaipur, Girdharlal Durlabhji and his younger brother Khelshankar had come to Calcutta. The latter’s eyes fell on Poonamchand and he sent a proposal to Ramjibhai on behalf of Girdharlal’s daughter, Sumitra. At that time the matter did not move ahead much. In the meantime, in 1932, Ramjibhai had to go to Jamshedpur on the occasion of Khelshankar’s wedding. At that time the proposal of the daughter of the notable industrialist in Africa was renewed, but the girl was not ready to get married until she had finished her studies, so the matter ended there. Ramjibhai went with his relatives to Jaipur and stayed at Girdharlal Javeri’s house. There Poonamchand got a chance to know Javeri’s daughter, Sumitra. And knowing that both of them liked each other the elders got them engaged.

Since the Javeri family was originally from Morvi, it was originally decided to have the wedding in Morvi. However, later the wedding was held on 7^th February, 1936 in Mumbai. After the wedding ceremony when his daughter-in-law, Sumitra came to get Ramjibhai’s blessings, Ramjibhai had expressed his hopes and desires. When he saw these hopes fulfilled he said with satisfaction about Sumitra, ‘ Sumitra has taken care of all the brothers and sisters and fulfilled her role as a housewife very well.’                                                                            

 A year after his marriage Poonamchand started working for his uncle, Narbheram. As his nephew, Poonamchand asked for better working conditions as compared to the other workers, but his uncle was adamant in his refusal. However, Poonamchand did not take any offence at this. At that time Sumitra was also with Poonamchand. Since Sumitra was well educated according to those times, she was keen to get involved in social work. But society was not so advanced or broadminded at that time, so Sumitra’s involvement in social work was criticised. However, she did not bother about this. The couple was not very comfortable in Jamshedpur, so in 1938 Poonamchand took up a job as a manager in Mukund Iron and Steel Company. At Jivanlal’s insistence Ramjibhai also joined Mukund Iron as a managing director like Jivanlal. Mukundlal did not get on very well with Jivanlalbhai. As a result, later Poonamchand had to tell Ramjibhai, ‘Now for my sake it would be good if you could please work out some solution for me.’ He spent a couple of years in Mukund. During this time Ramjibhai started a factory in Calcutta, which he shifted to Mehsana in 1942 and which Poonamchand joined. Here he had an opportunity to show his true capabilities, as a result of which the development of the factory, Poonamchand’s skill and working abilities were appreciated.        

Now Poonamchand’s career became totally business oriented. Slowly he became more involved in all aspects of business related matters. After Poonamchand became a member of the Rotary Club on 9^th December, 1949, he became chairperson of the Fellowship Committee from 1954-55 and 1955-56 and fulfilled his duties for two years in succession. After this he was on the Board of Directors of the Rotary Club for two years from 1956-57 and 1957-58. In addition, his father was the Vice-president of the Indian Nonferrous Metal Manufacturers’ Association – Calcutta, in 1954 and after that was the President from 1957-58. After this, from 1959-60 and 1960-61 he was the President of the Semi Manufacturers’ Council for two years. Over and above this, during the years from 1950-‘58, Poonamchand was the Vice-president of the Western India Sheet Rollers’ Association – Mumbai and President in 1961 and 1962. In 1965 and 1966 Poonamchand was elected as a member on the committee of the Indian Merchant’s Chambers and on this basis was a trustee of the Bombay Port Trust. Thus, Poonamchand was deeply involved in many prominent associations in industry, where he occupied a high position and showed his true capabilities. He was also a member of many clubs including the Willingdon Sports Club, the National Sports Club, the Cricket Club of India and the Royal Western India Turf Club. In addition he was also a member of the Indo-American Society, Democratic Group and International Club. Poonamchand was fond of swimming and photography. He was appointed as the Director of the Kamani Group in 1951 and as Chairperson in 1965, after Ramjibhai’s death.

Poonamchand travelled abroad on business many times. He was a highly respected person amongst Indian industrialists. He had a sixth sense and could immediately perceive the thoughts and temperament of persons with whom he came into contact. He was also able to present his own viewpoint firmly but without offending the other person. Just as he had developed the patience to listen carefully to anyone who gave him advice he had also cultivated the ability to take a decision with courage and discrimination. After listening to everybody’s ideas he always took the decision he felt was the best. Poonamchand’s memory was so powerful that those working with him or under him had to remain extremely alert, but still he was firmly entrenched in the hearts of the workers of the Kamani Group and he was the soul of the Kamani Group.      

Ramjibhai’s second son Rasiklal was born in Chorwad on 20^th May, 1920, five months after Ramjibhai had retired from Jivanlal Company for the first time. He was also educated in the same way as Poonamchand. A private tutor was also engaged for him and just like Poonamchand he sent to New Era and Dakshinamurthy to study. Rasiklal studied up to metric (SSC) level. He had joined Mukund Iron and even worked on the furnaces there. After that when Ramjibhai set up a factory in Calcutta, Rasiklal joined that. When the factory was shifted to Mehsana in 1942 all the work was carried out under Rasiklal’s supervision.

Rasiklal was engaged to a girl of his choice, but the engagement broke in a couple of years and in 1947 he was engaged for a second time to Hemlata, the daughter of Shri Virchand Ghatalia. Since Rasiklal had to go to America this engagement had to be finalised quickly. He left for America just fifteen days after his engagement. After returning he was married in 1948 in Mumbai.

Rasikal’s nature was somewhat different than that of Poonamchand. From the beginning Rasiklal only engaged in work that he was sure would be successful. Also because of his trip to America in 1947-48, Rasiklal learnt the art of management and how to pay proper attention to detail. After returning from America, Rasiklal organised the factory in Kurla very well. He totally immersed himself in his work without bothering about the outside world.    

During this time Rasiklal played an importorant role in obtaining agencies from different companies in Europe. In 1947 Rasiklal took an agency of the English company, Fergusson Tractors and established a department of agricultural machinery and supervised both these matters. After a couple of years, he took agencies of the well known Italian companies Fiat for tractors and Olivetti for tele-printers and typewriters. The Kamani Group made a good profit through the Fergusson agency.

After 1953 Rasiklal went to take care of the factory in Jaipur. After he returned from there he stayed in Kurla and looked after the factory there. During Rana’s time he looked after the sheet iron and zinc oxide factories. On the 1^st November, 1961 Rasiklal was appointed Deputy Managing Director and looked after the finance department.

Rasiklal was very good at management. He would never start any new project without planning ahead. After carefully considering the plan he would firmly implement the work according to what had been planned. As a result there was never any problem, confusion, mismanagement or delay in the work. Rasiklal was very capable of management and carrying out work according to plan. From 1964-65 Rasiklal started to take an active part in various associations. He was the Vice-president of the Engineering Association of India – Mumbai Branch and President of its structural panel. He was also a member of the Mumbai Rotary Club and the Bombay Presidency Radio Club. He liked gardening and art. He was also very fond of reading scientific magazines. A notable trait in Rasiklal’s character was that he always wanted to do new things. He had no dislike of routine work, but he believed that along with carrying out routine work, doing something unique developed one’s originality, so he always forging new inroads, going in new directions and thinking about the possibilities of new ventures.

Rasiklal’s younger sister Sarla was born on 9^th April, 1924 in Chorwad. She was educated in English in a newly established girls’ school in Amreli. There, over and above English and other languages, home-science, the science of health, art, needlework and other subjects were taught. The science of health and home-science were taught by Amrely’s well known vaidraj (Ayurvedic doctor) and friend of Ramjibhai, Krishnaprasad Girjashankar Bhatt. English was taught by his son Dolarkumar Bhatt. Afterwards, Dolarkumar joined Ramjibhai’s factory in Jaipur and later was appointed as the public relations officer of the Kamani Group. He became Poonamchand’s trusted man and was a very popular officer within the Kamani Group. He was very conscientious and honest. He was very persevering, enthusiastic and careful in his work and the notable traits in his personality were patience and gentleness.

Sarlaben was engaged to Pranlal from the Parekh family of Junaghad. Pranlal had come to Dhari and there since both of them had liked each other they were engaged and they were married in 1940 in ‘Desai wadi’ in Ghatkopar. Unfortunately in 1942, Pranlal was stricken with typhoid and passed away. It was a big shock to Ramjibhai and Jadavben to see their daughter a widow. A short while after this unfortunate incident the parents decided to have their daughter stay with them and all the brothers and sisters-in-law saw to it that she did not feel unwelcome. She stayed with her family peacefully and happily.

Ramjibhai’s third son Navinchandra was born on 17^th February, 1926 in Jamshedpur. Just like his two elder brothers he also studied in New Era school, where he studied up to metric (SSC). After he passed his metric examination it was decided to send Navinchandra to America for higher studies, but due to certain circumstances this was not possible at that time so he took admission in a college in Pune. After studying there for eight to ten months, Navinchandra finally went to America. In 1948 Ramjibhai had gone to America with Jadavben. In America Navinchandra studied in Brooklyn University and then went to Baltimore. There he met up with his parents and returned to India in 1950 without obtaining his degree. After coming to India Navinchandra joined his father’s business. He was engaged to Nalini, the daughter of Durlabhbhai Umedchand Parikh and they were married in Datia Palace in 1951.

After his marriage Navinchandra was sent to Delhi. He stayed there until the end of 1956 and then went to Jaipur and stayed there as the Resident Director. Navinchandra was very fond of sports, gardening, photography and reading.

Ramjibhai’s second daughter, Nalini, was born on 17^th January, 1928 in Amreli. She was married in 1946 to Mansukhlal Parekh from Amreli. Mansukhlal was a fellow student of Rasiklal.

Ramjibhai’s fourth son, Hasmukh, was born on 9^th December, 1928 in Calcutta. He only studied up to metric. For a short time Hasmukh had studied in Dakshinamurthy. His younger brother Navin was also with him there. But there he had to observe certain practices to become self reliant, which were not suitable to him and so Hasmukhbhai returned to Mumbai. When Hasmukhbhai joined Kamani Industries on 1^st July, 1948 he started work at the lowest level. Initially he worked in the Kurla factory and thereafter in the agricultural machinery department in Kamani Chambers. In 1950 Hasmukhbhai went to England and underwent training with Fergusson Tractors. After he completed his training and came back, Hasmukhbhai was assigned to work in the tractor sales department, in the office of the Kamani Group in Madras. He was appointed assistant manager in the agricultural machinery department in 1952. In 1953 he was appointed as an assistant to the technical director in the Kurla factory. In 1954 he did the work of the production manager in the absence of the latter. In 1957 he was appointed as production manager and in September of the same year he was made the head of the factory of Kamani Metals and Alloys. From 1961 Hasmukhbhai worked as the Resident Director of this company and the Managing Director of Kamani Tubes and Electric Lamp Caps. Over and above this he also had the responsibility of Kamani Metallic Oxides. In addition, the development plans of Kamani Engineering Corporation were also under him.

He was married to Meenakshi, the granddaughter of Dr. Chamanlal Mehta and the daughter of Shri Jayantilal B. Shah, a former purchase manager of Tata, on 13^th December 1956 in Mumbai. Hasmukhbhai was very fond of cultural music, sports and photography. He used to play the ‘tabla.’ He was a member of the Rotary Club of Mumbai. In 1965 Hasmukhbhai was the President of the Indian Zinc Oxide Manufacturers’ Association. He was a member of the Cricket Club of India, the National Sports Club and Indo-Iranian Society amongst other associations.

Hasmukhbhai’s younger brother, Navnit was born on 11^th November, 1931 in Mumbai. He passed his Inter Science exam and then attended a one year course in Davar’s College of Commerce, but did not give the final examination. During his school days he spent a short time in Dakshinamurthy; he could not adjust there and came back to Mumbai.

In 1952 Navnitbhai joined the Kamani Group’s mining division to learn the work. After that, on 1^st July, 1952 he was appointed as the Commercial Manager of the erection department. After working in this position for two years he went to Delhi in October 1954, to organise the radio mast erection work that was going on there. After returning from there in February 1956 he joined the factory in Kurla. After two months he went to Bihar for the Gurumahisahi railway work. From there, in December, Navnitbhai worked as an officer on special duty in the stores, accounts and other departments and looked after the work there. In July, 1957 he worked with Rana in the plant started by Kamani Pigments Works and Kamani Metallic Oxide to manufacture lead oxide and litharge during a critical time. As Rana was removed from the position of joint Managing Director, Navnit was again appointed as Business Manager of Kamani Engineering Corporation. In 1958 he was transferred to the production department. He was appointed as Works Executive and later as Chief Executive in 1961. From the 20^th October, 1961 he worked as Resident Director and Chief Executive and was also a director in a number of other companies.

Navnitbhai was married to Susmita on 17^th December, 1956, four days after Hasmukhbhai’s wedding. His was a love marriage. Navnitbhai was very fond of photography, cards and reading. He excelled in colour photography.

Ramjibhai’s youngest son, Chandravadan, was born on 17^th October, 1933 in Amreli. It was Chandravadan’s good fortune that amongst all the brothers he was the only one who graduated from college. After passing his B.Com exam in 1955, Chandravan was appointed as an assistant to the Finance Manager in October, 1956. After that, in 1958 he was appointed as Finance Manager. He worked in this capacity until November, 1961. In December, 1961 Chandravadan took on the responsibility of the production of metal strips in the Kurla factory. In December 1961 he was sent to Tehran. There, on the 14^th January, 1965 he was appointed as Managing Director of Ieneh-S.A. On 9^th May, 1965 he was married to Sangeeta. This was an inter caste marriage.

Chandravan was extremely keen on photography. All of Ramjibhai’s sons cultivated a love for photography. And almost all of them loved sports.

Ramjibhai’s youngest daughter was Mrudula. She was born 12^th July, 1937 in Amreli. Being the youngest amongst all the brothers and sisters, she was brought up with great indulgence. She was married to Dineshchandra, the son of Raibahadur Himchand Kapoorchand Shah, the Managing Director of Jivanlal (1929) Ltd. on the 3^rd December, 1960. Her marriage was celebrated with much fanfare. A coloured film was made of all the functions including the distribution of the invitation cards. On seeing the film of marriage ceremony, the Films Division requested the best parts for a film on the different marriage ceremonies in India and gave a written agreement for the same.

Ramjibhai made an effort to give all his sons the best education possible up to the highest level. He was never upset that any of his sons got a higher education. On the contrary he gladly made all the necessary arrangements. He also took great care to see that all his sons were well trained in the business. When he felt it was necessary he saw to it that his sons were sent abroad so that they could study or undergo training. He was very particular about one thing, namely, that the knowledge gained by them could be skilfully used in any department of the Kamani Group of Industries. This showed remarkable foresight on the part of the father. Only after he was sure that his sons were capable and ready did he appoint them in a high position in his business, so that they could play a proper part in expanding the business. No son was given the privilege of holding a high position without the proper qualifications. As a result all of Ramjibhai’s sons were able to play a considerable role in the development and expansion of the Kamani Group of Industries.     

     Shri Ramjibhai’s family: Seated from left to right – Shrimati Nalini N. Kamani, Shrimati Hemlata R. Kamani, Shrimati Jadavlaxmiben R. Kamani, Shrimati Sumitra P. Kamani, Shrimati Meena H. Kamani. Standing in the first row from left to right – Shri Hasmukh Kamani, Navin Kamani, Shrimati Sangeeta C. Kamani, Shrimati Sushmita N. Kamani, Shrimati Anjani A. Parekh and Chandravadan Kamani. Standing in the second row from left to right – Shri Ashwin P. Parekh, Punamchand Kamani, Rasik Kamani and Navnit Kamani.

Friends and family during the wedding of Shri Ramjibhai’s youngest daughter, Mrudula. At the centre is Shri Shriprakashji, the Governor at that time. Next to Ramjibhai is his brother, Shri Narbheram Kamani.            

(a) Shri Ramjibhai; (b) Poonamchandbhai; (c) Rasikbhai; (d) Navinbhai; (e) Hasmukhbhai; (f) Navinbhai; (g) Chandravadanbhai.

Ramjibhai at the factory of Fuji Electric Company, in Tokyo, Japan: on his left is the Managing Director of Fuji, Shri Shimasu, and on his right is Shri Chandravadan Kamani.