Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v1.c5.s3.t9: The Harilelas
Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v1.c5.s3.t9
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The Harilelas
v1.c5.s3.t9.1
The Harilelas are currently the most prominent business family of Indian origin in Hong Kong. They wholly-own the multi-million dollar Harilela Group of Companies which has a very strong presence in the hospitality industry in Hong Kong besides having substantial real estate and other business interests in Hong Kong and outside. Their presence on the China coast dates nearly one century back when Naroomal Lilaram Mirchandani arrived in Guangzhou (Canton) from his home province of Sindh (then a part of India and today in Pakistan). He set up a shop to export antiques primarily to Europe from China. After several years, in 1930, he brought his wife and sons over to join him in China.
v1.c5.s3.t9.2
*H N Harilela*
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Since the antiques business was hit hard by the Great Depression of the 1930s, the Harilelas reoriented their business. They set up a mail order custom tailoring business that became very successful. They managed to survive through the difficulties caused by the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong during World War II. After the War, they were commissioned to produce uniforms for the British army which helped them to prosper further. However, in 1960, under the aegis of the newly-formed Harilela Group, the family once again reoriented their business interests, moving into the real estate business and hospitality industry. They acquired substantial property in Hong Kong's most prestigious locations. Among the many hotels that they own and operate are the Holiday Inn Golden Mile in Hong Kong and the Westin Resort in Macau. Four generations and about a hundred members of the Harilela family reside together in a huge mansion in Kowloon Tong.
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The current chairman of the group, Hari Harilela, has served as Hong Kong Affairs Advisor to the Chinese Government and in 2000, a was awarded the Gold Bauhinia Star by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government. The Harilelas are a good example of versatility and business acumen displayed by Indian entrepreneurs who have managed to overcome challenges and thrive in the turbulent conditions of 20^th century CE China.
v1.c5.s3.t9.5
(*Madhavi Thampi*)