The latest season of Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives on Netflix has got everyone buzzing, especially with the addition of new faces like Kalyani Saha Chawla, who is already a household name in the Delhi high society. What many might not know, however, is her connection to Vishal Chawla, her ex-husband, who runs a Rs 210 crore family business with deep ties to India’s business elite. Here’s everything you need to know about Vishal Chawla and his impressive business legacy.
A Legacy Built on Luxury: Vishal Chawla’s Family Business
Vishal Chawla is the director of Ravissant, a luxury silverware and lifestyle brand founded by his parents, Ravi and Mina Chawla, in 1981. The company has flourished over the years, now boasting a revenue of over $25 million (approximately Rs 210 crore). According to Forbes India, around 70% of Ravissant’s revenue comes from international markets, particularly Europe and the United States, cementing its place as a global luxury brand.
Ravissant’s clientele includes some of the most influential figures in India and beyond. The late Ratan Tata, Mukesh Ambani, PRS Oberoi, and Naresh Goyal are just a few of the high-profile names associated with the brand. Ravi Chawla, Vishal’s father, shared with Forbes India that Ravissant’s success was due to its ability to redefine luxury and style, saying, “Our sensibilities set forth a novel paradigm in the realm of fashion and luxe living, redefining the very essence of style and luxury.”
Vishal Chawla’s Educational Background and Professional Journey
Vishal Chawla’s educational journey began in England, where he completed his schooling before going on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. Growing up, Vishal developed a passion for golf, regularly competing in junior tournaments across India, and was often seen at the prestigious Delhi Golf Club.
However, Vishal didn’t immediately join the family business. He spent several years gaining experience with different fashion and lifestyle brands, working in various roles across retail, manufacturing, and business development. This diverse experience helped him develop a well-rounded understanding of the luxury market and set the stage for his later leadership role at Ravissant.
The Business Partnership That Became a Life Partnership
In 1995, Vishal met Kalyani Saha, who had recently moved from Kolkata to Delhi. Kalyani, who would later gain fame as an influential figure in Delhi’s high society, was also an entrepreneur in her own right. She had a talent for creating leather handicrafts, and soon the couple turned their business partnership into a personal one, marrying and embarking on a successful business venture together.
By 1998, Vishal and Kalyani were running a booming business that saw a production of 2,000 to 3,000 handmade pieces every week. Their company specialized in creating leather stationery, luggage, saddlery, and other gift items, employing 40-50 workers. Vishal handled the creative side of the business, while Kalyani focused on marketing, an arrangement that played to their strengths.
Separation, Co-Parenting, and New Ventures
Though Vishal and Kalyani eventually separated, they continue to share a cordial co-parenting relationship. Their daughter, Tahira Tara Chawla, is now based in London, where she is forging her own path. While Vishal Chawla continues to oversee the family’s luxury business, Kalyani has ventured into the world of silverware, heading Rezon, another luxury brand that she founded.
Vishal’s role at Ravissant remains pivotal, and he splits his time between the UK and India. His deep ties to the global luxury industry, combined with his family’s reputation for creating elegant, timeless pieces, make him a respected figure in India’s business elite.
The Ratan Tata and Mukesh Ambani Connection
Vishal Chawla’s family business has garnered attention from some of India’s most influential figures. Ratan Tata, the former chairman of Tata Group, was one of Ravissant’s earliest patrons, and his admiration for the brand helped establish its reputation in luxury circles. Mukesh Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries, is another high-profile customer of Ravissant, further solidifying the brand’s association with India’s wealthiest and most influential individuals.
These connections are a testament to Ravissant’s credibility and success, highlighting how the brand has become synonymous with elite luxury living. Vishal Chawla’s ability to maintain and grow this prestigious family business is a reflection of his business acumen and dedication to excellence.
Vishal Chawla may not be a household name to those outside the business world, but his influence in the luxury industry cannot be underestimated. From running a Rs 210 crore family business to cultivating connections with the likes of Ratan Tata and Mukesh Ambani, Vishal’s success is a testament to his commitment to quality and innovation.
While his ex-wife, Kalyani Saha Chawla, has earned her place in the spotlight with her role on Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives, Vishal continues to make his mark behind the scenes, ensuring the legacy of Ravissant endures. Together, the Chawlas represent a fascinating blend of business success, high-society connections, and a shared commitment to luxury and style.
