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The Consolidators - Prince Mathews Thomas

"True leadership is about transforming vision into reality and inspiring others to achieve their fullest potential."

The book chronicles the life and business journeys of Ajay Bijli, Abhishek Khaitan, Priya Paul, Vikas Oberoi, T.S. Kalyanaraman, Mithun Chittilappily and Rituraj Sinha.



The author has chosen second-generation entrepreneurs as the subject of his books. The ones who took over from their fathers, known, established faces of their respective fields with huge expectations. Though it is a relatively easy entry for them, the picture is not as rosy as it seems. 
Ajay Bijli's story, for instance, is a masterclass in resilience and vision as he revolutionized the Indian cinema experience with PVR Cinemas. Abhishek Khaitan's journey illustrates the power of strategic thinking in the highly competitive liquor industry. Priya Paul’s narrative is a beacon of innovation and creativity in the hospitality sector, while Vikas Oberoi’s tale is one of meticulous planning and execution in real estate.




They have had their own share of struggles to keep up the expectations and the establish their own space in the businesses they took over. Also interesting to read is the acquisitions and new capacities built by these individuals.

At SIS, which went for an IPO last year, the power balance between Uday Singh and Rituraj Singh the scion of the SIS group makes for an insightful read. How they have neatly set the boundaries and led the company to great growth makes for a good read. Also interesting is the Chubb deal. That an acquisition into an unknown territory was not only made into a successful buy but also eventually turned into a cash cow to cushion further acquisitions.

The book is well researched but it leaves you hungry for more. Perhaps more depth could have been added to the stories.

Thomas doesn't merely recount success stories; he offers a deeper understanding of the trials and tribulations that these entrepreneurs faced. The book serves as both an inspiration and a practical guide for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and strategic vision.

'Each of these seven entrepreneurs has taken his or her family business to newer, greater heights. These are compelling stories, each a lesson for other aspiring entrepreneurs' Harsh Mariwala

Pages - 260
Publisher - Penguin
Available in - hardback
Publishing year - 2017

Prince Mathew Thomas’s journalistic prowess is evident in his engaging writing style, which captures the essence of each entrepreneur’s journey with clarity and empathy. 
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