As the city of Madras is all set to celebrate its 367th birthday, there is one company that deserves a mention. Probably, the only company which has seen Madras through the years. Yes, I’m talking about Parrys. It is the second oldest company in India which is still in business and is also one of the oldest commercial houses in the entire world. And going strong even today. Started by Thomas Parry, a welshman, an astute businessman and a man of great vision. From a firm selling lottery tickets and Madeira wine, passages to europe and lending money to the Nawabs the Parry group is today an industrial house of great repute known for their professionalism and pragmatism. Such is the influence they have had on this great city of Madras, we still call the area around their office ‘Dare House’ as Parrys. Those days it is said that there was only one pier in the harbour and the waves used to lap the walls of the Parry building. The Dare House itself was built in 1950.

Today part of the Murugappa Group founded by AMM Murugappa Chettiar this company is making great progress. Hats off to this company who probably has seen more of Madras than anybody else in this world and retained this great city of Madras/Chennai as their head quarters even today.

Credit:Parrys 200.