Navroji Rastomji Mistri was more than just a successful entrepreneur; he was a beacon of hope and compassion for the underprivileged. Known as the “godfather of the poor” in Singapore, his unwavering commitment to philanthropy left an indelible mark on society.
Through his visionary approach and generous heart, Navroji Rastomji Mistri not only revolutionized the soft drinks industry but also transformed the landscape of medical care for the needy. His legacy continues to inspire generations, proving that one person’s selflessness can indeed make a world of difference.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings of Navroji Rastomji Mistri
Born on June 3, 1885, into a Parsi family in Mumbai, India, Navroji Rastomji Mistri’s journey began with modest roots. From an early age, he exhibited curiosity, resilience, and a knack for problem-solving. As an engineer, he initially worked at the Royal Indian Marine Dockyards, where his technical skills flourished.
A pivotal moment in his life occurred when he crossed paths with Jamsetji Tata, the visionary founder of the Tata Group. Tata’s words of wisdom, “When you grow up and if you work hard, you will be a success,” deeply resonated with young Navroji. This encouragement planted the seeds of ambition and determination that would later define his remarkable journey.
In 1909, with nothing but 10 rupees in his pocket and dreams in his heart, Navroji moved to Singapore to work on the construction of Keppel Harbour’s graving dock. This leap of faith marked the beginning of his extraordinary adventure in a foreign land.
The Path to Entrepreneurship
During his early days in Singapore, Navroji Rastomji Mistri connected with the small but close-knit Parsi community, where he met Phirozshaw Framroz, a prominent soft drinks manufacturer. Fascinated by the machinery and the intricacies of the soda business, Navroji started assisting at Framroz’s factory, using his engineering skills to repair and optimize the equipment.
His dedication did not go unnoticed. Upon the completion of the graving dock project in 1913, Framroz offered him the position of manager at his factory. This opportunity not only sharpened Navroji’s business acumen but also ignited his entrepreneurial spirit.
In 1925, driven by ambition and a vision of his own, Navroji Rastomji Mistri founded Phoenix Aerated Water, inspired by the mythical phoenix that rises from the ashes. This name symbolized his determination to succeed against all odds. However, his venture faced immediate challenges. Framroz contested Navroji’s decision, citing a non-compete agreement. The legal battle that ensued was intense, but Navroji eventually won the case, allowing him to pursue his dream.
Building an Empire
Phoenix Aerated Water quickly gained traction due to Navroji’s innovative strategies and commitment to quality. His biggest breakthrough came when he convinced the British armed forces to allow him to sell his drinks in Malaya and India. This strategic move expanded his reach across Southeast Asia, solidifying his brand’s reputation for excellence.
In 1931, Navroji Rastomji Mistri diversified his business by opening G. H. Café, which offered the beloved curry tiffin meals alongside Phoenix Aerated Water’s refreshing drinks. The café became a popular gathering spot, further boosting his company’s visibility and growth.
The Heart of a Philanthropist
Despite his success, Navroji Rastomji Mistri never forgot his humble beginnings. His wealth became a tool to uplift the lives of those in need. The turning point in his philanthropic journey occurred when he visited the Singapore General Hospital as a patient. Witnessing sick children sleeping along the corridors due to a lack of space deeply moved him.
When his doctor, Professor Gordon Ransome, lightheartedly suggested that Navroji should fund a ward if he wanted to see change, he took it to heart. Shortly after, Navroji donated SGD $950,000 to build a new hospital wing dedicated to non-paying pediatric patients. He declared,
“I cannot bear to think of sick children, and their mothers lying on the floors of hospital wards…because of the shortage of space and funds.”
His generous contribution led to the construction of Mistri Wing at the Singapore General Hospital, which housed two state-of-the-art 150-bed pediatric wards. Although he passed away before its completion in 1955, his brother Hormusji Mistri inaugurated the wing, ensuring that Navroji’s legacy of compassion lived on.
A Legacy of Generosity
Navroji’s philanthropic spirit went beyond building hospital wards. Navroji Rastomji Mistri donated SGD $50,000 to the University of Malaya for medical research equipment, demonstrating his commitment to advancing healthcare. Furthermore, in his will, he allocated half of his estate—worth SGD $1 million—to establish the Mistri Singapore Trust and Mistri Bombay Trust, benefiting underprivileged children, financially struggling students, and tuberculosis patients.
His unparalleled generosity earned him the title of “godfather of the poor” in Singapore. Even during the Japanese Occupation, he sheltered homeless people, an act of courage and compassion that earned him the prestigious Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1946.
Honoring a Visionary
In recognition of his contributions, the British colonial government named Mistri Road, near Shenton Way, in his honor in 1955. This road stands as a tribute to his impact on Singapore’s history and development. Additionally, Mistri Wing at the Singapore General Hospital continues to serve as a reminder of his legacy of selflessness and love for humanity.
Inspiring Generations
Navroji Rastomji Mistri’s life story is a testament to the power of perseverance, humility, and empathy. From arriving in Singapore with just 10 rupees to becoming a successful entrepreneur and a beloved philanthropist, his journey exemplifies how determination and generosity can transform lives.
His legacy continues to inspire future generations to pursue their dreams while giving back to society. Navroji’s unwavering belief in hard work, resilience, and kindness teaches us that true success is measured not by wealth but by the impact we create in the world.
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