Balvant Parekh, also known as Balvantray Kalyanji Parekh, is celebrated as ‘The Fevicol Man of India’ for founding Pidilite Industries, the billion-dollar company behind the iconic adhesive Fevicol. Parekh’s journey from a law graduate and freedom fighter to a successful entrepreneur is an inspiring tale of perseverance and innovation in post-independence India.
Born in Mahuva, Gujarat, Parekh was deeply involved in the struggle for India’s independence, participating in the Quit India movement. Despite his passion for the cause, family pressure led him to study law. Parekh cleared the Bar Council Exam and earned a law degree, but his true calling lay in the world of business.
Facing numerous hardships, including residing in a factory basement with his wife and working as a peon, Parekh’s determination never wavered. An opportunity to visit Germany provided him with valuable business insights, which he brought back to India. Along with his brother, Parekh established Parekh Dyechem Industries in Mumbai.
In 1959, they launched Fevicol, an adhesive designed specifically for carpenters, which quickly became a household name in India. That same year, the company was renamed Pidilite Industries. From its humble beginnings as a small shop, Pidilite Industries grew to dominate the Indian market. Today, the company boasts a market capitalization of approximately Rs 145000 crore.
Parekh’s contributions extend beyond business. He was a philanthropist who founded two schools, a college, and a hospital in his hometown of Mahuva, Gujarat, reflecting his commitment to giving back to the community.
