In order to do business effectively in contemporary South Asia, it is necessary to understand the culture, the ethos, and the region?s new trading communities. In tracing the modern-day evolution of business communities in India, this book uses social history to systematically document and understand India?s new entrepreneurial groups.

About the Author(s)

Harish Damodaran

HARISH DAMODARAN is a journalist who has worked for more than 16 years as a reporter and editorial analyst with the Press Trust of India and the Hindu Business Line. Currently Senior Assistant Editor at The Hindu Business Line, Damodaran has specialised in agri-business and commodities coverage. Insights from field-level reportage have helped in complimenting his wider interest in macro-economic policy, business and development issues. In December 2004, Damodaran was conferred a book writing-fellowship from the New India Foundation, Bangalore, which resulted in the present book.

Table of Contents

Introduction
The Old Merchant Communities
Brahmins, Khatris, and Babus
Kammas, Reddys, and Rajus
Kongunad Naidus and Gounders
Nadars and Ezhavas
Patidars and Marathas
The Paradox of Northern Farming Communities
A Note on the Minorities
Conclusion