Mangalore: Narayana Murthy inaugurates rebuilt facility of Primacy
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (DV)
Mangalore, Jan 15: N R Narayana Murthy, chairman of IT giant Infosys on Wednesday January 15 inaugurated the rebuilt facility of Primacy Industries Ltd, the world’s largest candle manufacturer at Baikampady, a year after the candle factory was destroyed in a massive fire.
Addressing the gathering after the inauguration, Narayana Murthy said, "This occasion demonstrates power of optimism, courage, and concern for society. After the factory was destroyed due to fire, Gautam Pai showed great courage, which should be appreciated. The staff and customers stood by him and supported him, and they too deserve appreciation.
"It is easy to say that it was an unfortunate incident but Gautam Pai (chairman of Primacy) and his team with great courage rebuilt the factory, out of concern for 850 staff and their families, the future of their children, their parents, and for the growth of this country attained through export. We should appreciate and express our gratitude to them," he added.
"During the 70s I travelled to Europe and spoke to people about capitalism, communism and socialism. After speaking to great leaders I came to the conclusion that poverty can be solved only by creating jobs for people. When this incident of fire took place, for the benefit of 850 families living in Mangalore, this rebuilding work was undertaken. Enormous optimism, spirit, confidence and enormous hardwork was needed to do this work and bring smiles on the faces of 850 families. This is also a lesson to all the corporates," he said.
"In life there are ups and downs and all we need is optimism, confidence, courage and spirit. Today we need to play our roles for the betterment of this world," he said, adding that Primacy had set a great example for society, the corporate sector, the government and for the whole of India by rebuilding the factory.
T Gautam Pai, chairman of Primacy Industries said, "In a short span of time we have rebuilt the facility. This was my dream project. Though in the initial stages we faced hurdles, we overcame them. We have seen tough times and faced many challenges but the Primacy team stood by me. When you decide to do something, half the job is done. This was possible also due to the efforts and leadership of V K Thalithaya, president of Primacy. Everybody stood by us and extended their support, be it the bankers, customers or organizations, in shaping this institution during a tough time. In life when we go through trying times, we emerge more beautiful."
R K Sehgal, directory of Primacy felicitated Narayana Murthy on the occasion.
M Narendra, chairman and MD of Indian Overseas Bank was the guest of honour.
V K Thalithaya welcomed the gathering.
Troy Propes, director of Primacy, Sudha Murthy, and Sandhya Pai were present.
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