Forbes released its list of the world’s billionaires earlier this year and featured 200 Indians, including 25 first-time entries. Among these, businessman Deepinder Goyal, co-founder of Zomato, saw his wealth surge to over Rs 8,300 crore, earning him a place on the list. However, in terms of sheer wealth, Delhi boasts an even richer figure: Shiv Nadar. With a staggering net worth of $35.6 billion (approximately Rs 2,97,990 crore), Nadar is the richest businessman in Delhi and a prominent philanthropist.
Who is Shiv Nadar?
Shiv Nadar is the founder and chairman emeritus of HCL Technologies, a leading multinational IT consulting company. Nadar and his friends launched the firm in 1976, starting from a modest garage with an initial investment of Rs 1,87,000. Initially focused on manufacturing calculators and microprocessors, HCL Technologies has since evolved into one of the top IT firms globally, with a presence in 60 countries.
Shiv Nadar’s Early Life and Career
Born in Thoothukudi district, Tamil Nadu, Shiv Nadar attended St. Joseph Boys Higher Secondary School. He continued his education at PSG College of Technology in Coimbatore, where he earned a degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering. Nadar’s career began in 1967 with the Walchand Group’s Cooper Engineering Ltd. He later founded Microcomp, a company specializing in tele-digital calculators. This venture was soon rebranded as Hindustan Computers Limited, now known as HCL Technologies. His contributions to the IT industry earned him the Padma Bhushan in 2008.
Transition of Leadership and Family
After leading HCL Technologies for over forty years, Shiv Nadar transitioned from his role as chairman, passing the leadership to his daughter, Roshi Nadar. Roshi Nadar is recognized as one of India’s wealthiest women, continuing the family legacy of business and philanthropy.
Philanthropy and Charitable Contributions
Shiv Nadar is also celebrated for his philanthropic efforts. According to Mint, he donated approximately Rs 2,042 crore (about Rs 5.6 crore per day) to charitable causes during the 2022-2023 financial year. This extraordinary level of giving has earned him the title of ‘India’s most generous’ for three consecutive years, as reported by the Hurun India Philanthropy List 2023. In addition to his charitable donations, Nadar founded the SSN College of Engineering in Chennai and has supported numerous educational institutions through HCL Technologies.
