This summer the HDFC Ltd (Housing Development Finance Corporation Limited) and H. T. Parekh Foundation proudly announced the grand opening of the H. T. Parekh Legacy Centre, a remarkable tribute to the visionary Hasmukhlal Thakordas Parekh. Located on the 4th floor of HDFC’s corporate headquarters at Ramon House, Churchgate, Mumbai, this Legacy Centre honors the life and achievements of a man whose dreams revolutionized the housing finance landscape in India.
Mr. Hasmukhlal Thakordas Parekh, affectionately known as H. T. Parekh, embarked on a journey to bring housing finance to India at the age of 65. After relinquishing his role as Chairman of ICICI Limited, he founded HDFC, realizing his lifelong dream. The H. T. Parekh Legacy Centre chronicles his incredible story, from his early life and years as a stockbroker to the establishment of ICICI as a development bank and the founding of HDFC in 1977.
The Legacy Centre is designed to reflect the simplicity and warmth that defined Mr. H.T. Parekh. Abhishek Ray of Matrika Design Collaborative brought this vision to life by incorporating arches reminiscent of pre-Independence British architecture, creating spatial niches that guide visitors through different areas. The center culminates with the “historic space,” preserving Mr. H. T. Parekh’s original hut, symbolizing the roots of HDFC.
Audiovisual elements played a pivotal role in enhancing the visitor experience at the Legacy Centre. Abhishek Ray was tasked with providing a contained audio solution for the walk-through gallery, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in personal interviews and audio content featuring Mr. H. T. Parekh and the dedicated team behind HDFC’s inception.
After careful consideration, SoundTube was selected for its aesthetic appeal and comprehensive package, aligning perfectly with the project’s requirements. Blitzkrieg Systems collaborated to design and supply the audio-video equipment, selecting SoundTube’s Focus Point FP6020-II with SA202-RDT-II Amplifiers and HDMI Matrix switches for AV signal routing.
The contained audio solution featured:
- FP6020-II Focus Point parabolas powered by SA202-RDT-II Mini stereo amplifiers, known for their space-saving design.
- Two Focus Point pods equipped with LED and motion-sensing modules to elevate the user experience.
- Samsung commercial displays strategically placed throughout the venue.
- Alfatron Electronics matrix switches employing HDBaseT technology to transmit Ultra HD AV signals over long distances.
- Precise planning ensured that each Focal Point FP6020-II loudspeaker was installed not more than 7.5 feet from the floor level, optimizing sound containment.
- Floor rugs were strategically placed under each Focus Point pod to minimize sound reflections and maximize audio directivity.
The complete list of products installed included:
SoundTube FP6020-II x 6
SoundTube SA202-RDT-II x 6
SoundTube FP-Motion x 2
SoundTube FP-LED x 2
Alfatron Electronics ALF MUH44E x 1
Alfatron Electronics ALF WUK4A x 1
The end result was an unparalleled level of audio directivity and a flawless experience for visitors to the Legacy Centre. Abhishek Ray from Matrika praised SoundTube’s technology, highlighting its reliability and exceptional support.
The H. T. Parekh Legacy Centre was inaugurated by Jamshyd N. Godrej, Chairman and Managing Director of Godrej & Boyce Mfg. Ltd. Co. and opened to the public in July 2023. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Mr. H. T. Parekh and his vision for a better India.
A CNBC TV18 story about the Legacy Center opening is available here.
