Multiple accounts describe how Titan’s growth traces back to late-1970s efforts by Xerxes Desai, an executive within the Tata Group, to identify and pursue new business opportunities. The reporting characterizes Titan’s early push as directly connected to breaking HMT’s long-standing position in the Indian watch market. According to the sources provided, Desai’s work during this period set the groundwork for establishing a new brand and competitive model in wristwatches, which later became associated with Titan. The articles emphasize that the initiative begins in the late 1970s, with Desai exploring options beyond Tata’s existing structure and aiming to create an alternative to HMT’s dominance. While the material focuses on the origin story and Desai’s involvement, it does not add detailed specifics here on financing, corporate timelines, regulatory changes, or later milestones beyond the broad narrative of challenging HMT’s monopoly. Overall, the sources present a common storyline: Titan’s beginnings are linked to Desai’s early exploration at Tata and a competitive response to HMT’s market position.