Pilgrims Book House

PILGRIMS has become the group name representing several businesses both in India and Nepal . From its humble beginnings in Varanasi , the business was started by Rama Nand Tiwari, a book-lover turned businessman.Rama entered the book trade in 1971 at the age of 18, working for the owner of a large book shop in Varanasi . When the owner died unexpectedly of a heart attack, Rama started on his own by selling books on a blanket outside the Government Tourist Bungalow until enough money was saved to rent a very small bookstall next door. During this time, Paul Wagner, from the Australian book company, Numitex International, became friends of Rama. Paul took Rama on business trips to major Indian cities helping him acquire additional experience and contacts within the book industry. Rama and Paul optimistically named the small shop Numitex International which was chosen to reflect the Australian association. When the landlord doubled the rent and refused to negotiate for additional floor space, Numitex was forced to sell out.