Tiles, Textiles, and Trade: India’s Rich Business and Economic History

We often find that it’s the little things—artistic expressions, cultural exchanges, and creative endeavors in History that leave an indelible mark on a nation’s identity. Consider this: Did you know that Japanese majolica tiles played a pivotal role in promoting Hindu mythology and nurturing nationalistic ideas during India’s Swadeshi movement? This intriguing fusion of cultures reminds us that history isn’t merely a collection of facts; it’s also a reflection of the cultural nuances that shape a nation. But how vast must the trading network have been to facilitate such a phenomenon?

India, a land of rich heritage and diverse traditions, has a business and economic history that’s as fascinating as it is influential. In a world where the past often shapes the present and future, understanding India’s economic journey becomes essential.

Two centuries ago, India was a primary supplier of textiles to the world. The fine cotton produced by Indian artisans not only revolutionized the textile industry but also prompted the British to upgrade their cotton-spinning technology. This exchange of knowledge and technology is a testament to India’s historical impact on global trade.

The International Conference on Indian Business and Economy History (IBEH) is a platform dedicated to unraveling the layers of India’s economic past. Hosted at the prestigious IIM Ahmedabad, this conference brings together scholars from India and around the world.

The Guinee cloth, manufactured in erstwhile Pondicherry, carried a distinct indigo shade and smell. This unique textile found high demand in Western Africa and even achieved the status of currency in French colonies. India’s economic influence transcended its borders, shaping trade practices in far-off lands.

Prof Chinmay Tumbe, a faculty member at IIMA and a key organizer of the conference, emphasizes the importance of inclusivity. IBEH aims to cover every corner of India’s business and economic history. This year, it has expanded its scope to include the often-underrepresented northeastern region.

IBEH isn’t confined to India alone. It attracts scholars from diverse backgrounds, including Japan, Germany, Switzerland, the US, and the UK. This global participation ensures a wide range of perspectives and insights.

The past is a compass that guides us through the present and into the future. Learning about India’s business and economic history is more than just a historical exercise; it’s about understanding the roots of the modern world.

Keynote addresses by industry leaders like Harish Bhat from the Tata Group provide corporate insights rooted in history. Harish Bhat’s emphasis on making business history accessible, even turning it into bedtime tales for children, highlights its relevance in our daily lives. He underlines that corporate and history are not distinct entities; they are intertwined in our society, said a source.

Topics like the making of modern India through aviation highlight the interconnectedness of history and progress. Exploring the role of airplanes in shaping the nation’s identity sheds light on the importance of innovation. The range of presentations, from agrarian capitalism to colonial port cities, reflects the diversity of India’s economic journey. It’s a reminder that history is not a monolith but a mosaic of stories.

— An Article by Poojan Patel