The ConSOLIDators Book Review | Inspiring Stories of India’s Second-Generation Entrepreneur
Rajkumari Sharma Tankha
Not many people know that nearly 40 years ago, in 1978, Kishan Mohan Bijli—father of Ajay Bijli and Sanjeev Bijli of PVR Ltd—purchased the iconic Priya cinema hall in Basant Lok, New Delhi. Interestingly, the owner of one of India’s largest trucking businesses, Amritsar Transport Company, did not see it as a commercial investment. Instead, he acquired it as an act of social service.
The turning point came in 1990, when Ajay Bijli visited Orlando during his honeymoon and experienced a multiplex for the first time at Walt Disney World Resort. Inspired by the concept and driven by his passion for cinema—he was known to sit through all four shows in a day—Ajay recognized the untapped potential of Priya cinema. Upon returning to India, he convinced his father to renovate the theatre.
After some persuasion, Kishan Mohan agreed, and the renovated cinema reopened in 1991. Over the next few years, Priya cinema became the go-to destination in Delhi for English films. A major milestone followed in 1995, when Ajay Bijli entered into a joint venture with Australian company Village Roadshow, leading to the birth of Priya Village Roadshow (PVR), a brand that would redefine India’s cinema experience.
Inside The ConSOLIDators: Stories of Indian Business Leaders
This is just one of the seven compelling stories featured in The ConSOLIDators by Prince Mathews Thomas. The book offers deep insights into the journeys of India’s most successful second-generation entrepreneurs, showcasing how they expanded and transformed their family businesses through vision, resilience, and innovation.
A former journalist, Prince Mathews Thomas highlights several notable business leaders, including Abhishek Khaitan, who redefined Rampur Distillery by transforming it into Radico Khaitan and launching the successful 8PM liquor brand. The book also profiles Mithun Chittilappilly of V-Guard, T.S. Kalyanaraman of Kalyan Jewellers, Vikas Oberoi of Oberoi Realty, and Priya Paul of Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels.
Another standout story is that of Rituraj Sinha, who played a pivotal role in scaling Security and Intelligence Services (SIS) into one of India’s leading security firms. As quoted in the book, Sinha emphasizes the importance of foundational values inherited from his father. Under his leadership, SIS grew exponentially from a Rs 25 crore enterprise to a Rs 5,000 crore powerhouse, becoming one of the largest players in India’s security sector.
Why The ConSOLIDators Is a Must-Read
Written in simple, engaging language, The ConSOLIDators avoids unnecessary embellishments and instead focuses on authentic storytelling. The book captures how second-generation entrepreneurs navigated challenges, upheld legacy values, and successfully scaled their businesses.
Spanning 260 pages, the narrative remains engaging throughout, with each story offering valuable lessons in leadership, perseverance, and strategic thinking.
If you enjoy reading real-life success stories and gaining insights into India’s business landscape, The ConSOLIDators is a must-read.
