By Savita Bhave Translation Nandu Dange

In the first place, he gave a fillip to the modernisation and professionalisationof industry in Kolhapur. Side by side, he was responsible for the growth andprogress of several people and institutions, as can be seen at every stage ofthe narrative that follows.His feeling that industry was the best field for him, he did not indulge in anyunconnected activity. As an industrialist, he rose to every occasion when hefelt he was needed, and thus was instrumental in putting Kolhapur on theindustrial map of the country.All the talents of a great industrialist were concentrated in Menon, as can beseen at each step of the story of his life. A crystal clear foresight, the abilityto act decisively in adverse conditions, the knack of recognizing talent whenhe saw it, of nurturing it and developing it for mutual benefit are just a few ofthese. Industrial activity is inherently subject to cycles, and it is worthlearning from this book how to bravely turn adversity into opportunity forfurther prosperity in future.Several interesting and touching incidents bring out the human being inMenon. Basically a rugged, practical man, he maintained his humanity andcompassion throughout his life. He was full of fatherly affection towards all hispeople, a trait typical of first generation industrialists. He never made a fussof anything, and faced each challenge with a cold level-headedness.A foreigner to Kolhapur, he nevertheless drove his roots deep. In the span offour decades, he had to battle numerous difficulties, overcome severalproblems. Through all this, whenever he could find the time, he would reachfor the stars. He charged through the fields of technology, industrialinstitutions, innovation, experimentation, exports and a lot more, and left hisimprint on each.This chronicle of the aggressive, innovative and courageous industrialist willadd to the pride of Maharashtra. The new generation has a lot to learn fromthis biography, and I would encourage them, especially those in the industrialfield, to read it, study it and contemplate on it. I salute the memory of thisgood friend.***