The story of clay roofing in India dates back to 1860, when a German missionary established the Basel Mission Tile Factory at Mangalore. The factory was set up on the banks of the Gurupura and Nethravathi rivers after the discovery of large clay deposits in the region. This was the very first tile factory in India, located near Morgan’s Gate by the Nethravathi River. From this pioneering beginning, the industry flourished. Over the years, several tile factories came up across Mangalore and Kerala, carrying forward a unique tradition of craftsmanship. Mangalore Tiles (Mangalorean Tiles) soon became a hallmark of quality. Made from hard laterite clay with their signature red finish, these tiles gained immense popularity not just in India but across the globe. They were exported widely to Myanmar, Sri Lanka, the Far East, East Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and even Australia. During the British era, Mangalore tiles earned a special distinction—they were the only tiles officially recommended for government buildings in India because of their strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Even today, Mangalore tiles remain a preferred roofing solution, admired for their blend of tradition, quality, and timeless elegance.