Anil Agarwal, born on January 24, 1954, into a Marwadi family in Patna, Bihar, defied expectations by rising to prominence as one of India’s wealthiest and most influential businessmen. Despite facing financial constraints that limited his formal education to Patna’s Miller School, Agarwal’s thirst for knowledge and determination propelled him forward.
The Genesis of Vedanta
Agarwal’s entrepreneurial journey began in the mid-1970s with trading in scrap metal. In 1976, he laid the foundation for Vedanta Limited, starting from humble beginnings in metal scrap trading. Over the years, Vedanta evolved into a colossal conglomerate, earning Agarwal the “metal king.”
Milestones and Expansion
In 1986, Agarwal ventured into manufacturing with Sterlite Industries, initially producing jelly-filled cables. By 1993, Sterlite established India’s first private-sector copper smelter and refinery. A significant leap came in 2001 when Agarwal acquired a controlling stake in BALCO (Bharat Aluminium Company) and later in Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL), solidifying his dominance in the aluminum and zinc sectors.
Global Footprint and Achievements
Expanding internationally, Agarwal founded Vedanta Resources Limited in London in 2003, marking a pivotal moment as the largest non-ferrous metals and mining company from India listed on the London Stock Exchange.
Determination and Persistence
Anil Agarwal’s early struggles were emblematic of his resilience. Leaving home with little more than a tiffin box and bedding, he journeyed to Mumbai in pursuit of his dreams. Despite facing multiple failures with nine previous ventures, his perseverance paid off with the success of his tenth endeavor in cable production, which paved the way for Vedanta’s meteoric rise.
Financial Success and Philanthropy
By 2021-2022, Vedanta reported a turnover of Rs 1,31,192 crores, underlining its significant presence in the market. Forbes estimates Anil Agarwal’s net worth at Rs 14,790 crore in 2024, largely attributed to his holdings in Vedanta Resources and Anglo American, a prominent UK-based mining company.
Personal Life and Legacy
Married to Kiran Agarwal, Anil Agarwal is the father of two children, Agnivesh, who serves as the chairman of Hindustan Zinc, and Priya, a PR professional. Despite his vast success, Agarwal remains actively engaged in business and philanthropy through the Vedanta Foundation, focusing on education, healthcare, and skill development.
