Shri Rameshji Jain – The Enriched Persona of an Entrepreneur

 

It is often said that wealth automatically brings stature. When the wealthy person is an entrepreneur or a politician, people naturally gather around them, hoping to enhance their own standing. Yet, there are a few rare individuals whom destiny seems to have sent to this world to serve society and the nation with humility. One such person entered my life a few years ago— the renowned entrepreneur and Chairman of Rishabh World, Shri Rameshji Jain.

I was introduced to him through my elder son, Ketan, who has contributed extensively to design work for their products and organization. For nearly twenty-five years, he has been professionally associated with Shri Rameshji Jain and Shri Rishab Jain. Shri Rameshji Jain is not only the Chairman of Rishabh World which is renowned for its Fashion Brands for Men - D&J and Vercelli, but also a highly respected name in the textile and fashion industries. My very first meeting with him remains deeply memorable.

From the very first moment, what struck me was his honesty, courtesy, and humility. Despite his remarkable achievements, he remains grounded and approachable. Through his conduct and words, he connects effortlessly with people’s hearts. His reverence for Mahatma Gandhi is evident not merely in speech, but in the simplicity of his lifestyle, his emphasis on cleanliness, and the respect he shows to everyone around him.

Rameshji has a deep appreciation for the arts - music, painting, cinema, and film music. Many artists from these fields are part of his close circle. His love for music, especially, is innate and dates back to his school days. He holds his teachers in the highest regard, having imbibed discipline and administrative values during his education - principles he continues to follow even today.

His school principal, Shri R. K. Singh, had installed a loudspeaker in the school through which patriotic songs were played regularly. Listening to these songs unknowingly shaped Rameshji’s inner world, and they remain close to his heart even today.

Music gradually became an inseparable part of his life. In the absence of a formal guru, he learned to treat experience itself as his teacher—another lesson rooted in his schooling. He often emphasizes that the role of a teacher is supreme and must be respected, followed, and carried forward. This belief is reflected in his Teachers’ Day initiatives. Legendary composers Kalyanji - Anandji were among his closest friends, and even today, Anandji’s presence is assured at every Rameshji event.

A true connoisseur of Hindi film music, Rameshji can rightly be called an encyclopedia. His knowledge spans films, actors, directors, lyricists, singers, and composers—from the earliest era to modern times. He generously shares these musical treasures through his WhatsApp groups, often selecting songs that perfectly match the context of the moment.

Every Monday at Rishabh World, he introduces a special theme "Monday Morning Rituals" highlighting a personality who has contributed to the nation, accompanied by a meaningful film song. This is possible only because of his deep understanding of Hindi film music—not just the melodies, but also the stories behind them. From pre-independence legends like Joharabai, Noor Jehan, Shamshad Begum, and K. L. Saigal, to Talat Mahmood, Ashok Kumar, Mohammed Rafi, Mukesh, Manna Dey, Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, Geeta Dutt, Asha Bhosle, and Mubarak Begum—all live vividly in his memory.

Originally from Ajmer, the Jain family’s roots in textiles date back to 1930, when Shri Madanlal Godha, Rameshji’s father, established a textile business there. In 1960, he expanded operations to Mumbai, the city of opportunity. By 1967, the family relocated fully to Mumbai, guided by foresight and concern for the future. Under Shri Madanlalji’s leadership and administrative skill, the business earned nationwide recognition. In 1975, his younger son, Shri Rameshji Jain, joined the enterprise, leading to diversification across products and markets.

A visionary with global dreams, Rameshji boldly collaborated with Don & Julio (D&J) and in 1999 launched Rishabh World on the international stage of textile furnishings. Global brands like Varcelli and Gabbana became associated with the group. Today, Rishab World operates in nearly fifteen countries, exporting synthetic fabrics from Japan to America, South Africa, and South America—successfully and seamlessly.

Beyond business growth, Rameshji holds a clear mission: to elevate India’s image on the global platform. He believes that restoring the respect India enjoyed thousands of years ago is not solely the government’s duty, but a collective responsibility. Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, he actively participates in major exhibitions like Bharat Tex and other international expos to promote India’s textile excellence.

A seed planted nearly a century ago has today grown into a mighty tree through Rameshji’s dedication. The fourth generation now proudly carries this legacy forward. Shri Rishabh Jain, Managing Director of Rishabh World, focuses on sustainability and ethical practices, promoting eco-friendly designs and responsible sourcing. Yet, Rameshji remains the guiding force behind the group’s values and direction.

Rameshji has a remarkable ability to identify talent and bring it to the forefront. Once, during a visit to Rajasthan, he encountered a portrait artist whose work impressed him deeply. He envisioned using leftover fabric scraps from factories to create collage art. This idea led to a striking portrait of Prime Minister Narendra Modi made entirely from colorful textile remnants. Similarly, portraits of the five Gala brothers were created for a felicitation ceremony of Navneet Publications.

Despite his demanding business schedule, Rameshji remains deeply involved in social and cultural initiatives. One such initiative is “Beete Kal Ko Salaam”, organized twice a year to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to society. The June event commemorates his mother, while the December event honors his father. Awardees have included Prof. M. G. Rajadhyaksha, former Dean of J. J. Institute of Applied Art, Shri Gala of Navneet Publications, cricketer Dilip Vengsarkar, music maestro Anandji and many others.

His love for nature is reflected in the annual 'Go Green' initiative organized on 14th Febuary each year under the D&J Foundation at Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Botanical Garden and Zoo (Rani Baug). Over 850 students from municipal and private schools participate each year, learning about nature and biodiversity amidst thousands of trees and species through activities such as Painting, Sketching, Poetry, Essays, Photography . With the support of his office team and college volunteers, the event becomes both educational and joyful, concluding with certificates, awards, and prizes—an initiative born from Rameshji’s visionary thinking.

Rishab Jain joined the business at just nineteen years of age and guided the company through challenging times with stability and fresh ideas. As he aptly says, “We are not merely enhancing the beauty of fabrics; we are enriching their very essence.”

This is the story of a dream-driven, patriotic entrepreneur whose purpose is to build a strong future generation and a progressive, environmentally conscious nation. With the fourth generation stepping forward, the future of the Rishabh World family promises growth, innovation, and meaningful collaboration.

Rameshji, to your self-inspired energy with which you honor the contributions of countless entrepreneurs, creators, and patriots—we bow our heads in deep respect and salute you.

— Prof. M. G. Rajadhyaksha

    rajapost@gmail.com