This comprehensive volume provides an understanding of the roots of modern business practices in India. It is the first authoritative history of Indian business in the modern period that charts the course of the transition of business from mercantile capitalism to industrial capitalism. The author begins with a discussion of the backdrop in 1700: the period that shaped the strategies and structures that characterize the contours of Indian business today. He goes on the detail the aftermath of the imperial crisis; the onslaught of the industrial revolution and its impact in India; the rise of the managing agency system; and the beginning of industrial capitalism. The author analyzes the development of joint-stock firms; the new industrial elite; company laws; modern banking and charts the course of the Indian business through the critical first world war period up to the depression and the second world war. He demonstrates the growth of the business in free India and discusses the emergence of public sector; the changing managerial structure; technology choices; and the development of business education. Case studies of the pioneers of Indian business included in the study provide insights into their contribution to the growth of Indian business and society. This volume will be of immense value to scholars and students of business management, history, particularly social and economic history. This book will also be of interest to management professionals, publicists and lay readers interested in business.