March 08

Born near Rzeszów in Austrian Galicia, Ignacy Łukasiewicz trained as a pharmacist and chemist. In 1852, he successfully distilled kerosene from petroleum and coal, inventing the first practical kerosene lamp. Recognizing oil's commercial potential, he opened the world's first oil refinery in Ulaszowice and later Bóbrka. Łukasiewicz's innovations laid the foundation for the global petroleum industry and improved domestic lighting. A prominent philanthropist, he supported schools, hospitals, and cultural institutions until his death in 1882.

Harriet Samuel (née Wolf) was an English entrepreneur who established H. Samuel in 1862. After her husband’s death, she expanded the small clock-making business into a nationwide chain. Under her leadership, H. Samuel pioneered mail-order services and accessible fine jewellery for the public. She opened multiple branches across the UK, building a household name in retail. Her business acumen and customer-focused approach laid the foundation for one of Britain’s largest jewellers. Samuel’s legacy continues as the company celebrates over 150 years in operation.

Panditrao Agashe was an Indian businessman who played a significant role in his family’s enterprises in Maharashtra. He was instrumental in modernizing and expanding business operations during the mid-20th century. As a member of a prominent industrial family, Agashe contributed to the regional economy through ventures in manufacturing and trade. His leadership helped lay the groundwork for future generations of his family's business activities. He passed away in 1986, leaving a legacy in Maharashtra’s entrepreneurial community.