India has achieved an impressive milestone, securing the third position globally in the number of self-made billionaires, with a remarkable total of 105 billionaires. Within this illustrious group, the top 10 richest individuals in India feature only one woman, Savitri Jindal. This notable presence underscores the broader gender disparity in wealth but also highlights the exceptional achievements of a few remarkable women in a male-dominated arena.
In this introduction, we delve into the profiles of the top 10 richest women in India, as listed in Forbes’ Real-Time Billionaires rankings as of June 5, 2024. These women have not only amassed significant wealth but have also made substantial contributions to various industries, ranging from pharmaceuticals and finance to technology and consumer goods. Their stories of success are not just about numbers and net worth; they reflect a blend of visionary leadership, resilience, and groundbreaking contributions to the Indian and global economies. Join us as we explore the journeys, challenges, and triumphs of these extraordinary women who have etched their names in the annals of wealth and business success.
Savitri Jindal – $36.0 Billion
Company: Jindal Group
Savitri Jindal, the chairperson emeritus of the OP Jindal Group, inherited her vast empire following the passing of her husband, O.P. Jindal, in 2005. Beyond her impressive business acumen, Jindal has also had a significant political career. She won a Haryana Vidhan Sabha seat in 2005 and served as a cabinet minister in the Haryana government. Her wealth encompasses diverse industries, including steel, power, cement, and infrastructure.
Rekha Jhunjhunwala – $7.8 Billion
Company: Titan Company Limited, and others
Rekha Jhunjhunwala’s wealth primarily stems from her investments in Titan Company Limited and various other ventures. She is the widow of the late Rakesh Jhunjhunwala, a legendary investor often hailed as India’s Warren Buffet. Rekha continues to manage and expand their extensive investment portfolio, preserving and enhancing the legacy of her husband’s financial acumen.
Vinod Gupta – $5.7 Billion
Company: Havells
Vinod Gupta has distinguished herself through her leadership at Havells, a leading electrical equipment company. Her strategic decisions and business expansions have been pivotal in the company’s growth, transforming Havells into a household name in India and significantly contributing to her personal wealth.
Renuka Jagtiani – $4.8 Billion
Company: Landmark Group
Renuka Jagtiani heads the Landmark Group, a prominent retail and hospitality conglomerate with a substantial presence in the Middle East, Africa, and India. After her husband Micky Jagtiani’s passing, she took over the leadership and has successfully guided the company through expansions and new ventures, significantly enhancing its market presence.
Anu Aga – $4.6 Billion
Company: Thermax
Anu Aga, the former chairperson of Thermax, an energy and environment engineering company, has played a crucial role in its success. Although she has stepped down from active management, she remains influential as a board member. Additionally, her philanthropic contributions, especially in education and healthcare, are highly commendable.
Smita Crishna-Godrej – $3.9 Billion
Company: Godrej
Smita Crishna-Godrej, a major shareholder in the Godrej Group, has witnessed her wealth increase thanks to the conglomerate’s diverse ventures in consumer goods, real estate, agriculture, and chemicals. The Godrej family is renowned for their legacy of innovation and commitment to sustainability, solidifying their esteemed position in the business world.
Radha Vembu – $3.3 Billion
Company: Zoho Corporation
Radha Vembu’s wealth comes from her stake in Zoho Corporation, a software development company co-founded by her brother, Sridhar Vembu. Zoho has gained international acclaim for its comprehensive suite of software products, enabling businesses of all sizes to streamline operations and enhance productivity.
Leena Tewari – $3.2 Billion
Company: USV Pharma
Leena Tewari chairs USV Pharma, a leading pharmaceutical and biotechnology company. Under her leadership, USV has expanded its global footprint, particularly in the areas of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Tewari is also known for her contributions to education and healthcare initiatives.
Falguni Nayar – $2.9 Billion
Company: Nykaa
Falguni Nayar, the founder of Nykaa, revolutionized the beauty and personal care retail market in India. Her e-commerce platform has become a leading destination for beauty products, combining online and offline retail strategies. Nayar’s entrepreneurial journey from a successful investment banker to a business mogul is inspiring to many.
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw – $2.8 Billion
Company: Biocon
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw is the founder of Biocon, India’s largest biopharmaceutical company. Her pioneering work in biotechnology has placed India on the global map for affordable healthcare solutions. Mazumdar-Shaw is also a prominent philanthropist, focusing on healthcare, education, and social development initiatives.
